The fine line between love and hate

Emma Carter stormed into Blackwood Enterprises, her heels clicking against the marble floor like a war drum. She was late—again—not that she cared. Adrian Blackwood, her insufferable, arrogant, control-freak of a boss, would have something to say about it, but she had already prepared a list of sarcastic comebacks for whatever condescending remark he threw her way. “Good morning, Miss Carter,” the receptionist greeted, barely suppressing a grin. Everyone in the office knew about the legendary tension between Emma and Adrian. It was the only source of entertainment in this otherwise suffocating corporate world. “Morning, Lisa,” Emma muttered, stepping into the private elevator that led to the top floor. As the doors closed, she took a deep breath. Today was going to be hell. A major client was threatening to back out of a multimillion-dollar merger, and Adrian, being the perfectionist he was, would demand nothing short of a miracle. And who would he take his frustration out on? Her. Always her. The elevator dinged, and the doors slid open. “You’re late.” Emma had barely stepped out when she heard that voice—smooth as silk but laced with irritation. She turned to see Adrian Blackwood standing by his desk, arms crossed, watching her like a hawk. His suit was crisp, his tie perfectly knotted, and his dark blue eyes held the same icy intensity they always did. The man was devastatingly handsome, but Emma had long since decided he was also the devil reincarnated. She forced a smile. “Good morning to you too, sir.” Adrian’s jaw clenched. “The meeting was scheduled for eight. It is now eight-oh-seven.” “Oh, forgive me, Your Royal Highness. Next time, I’ll consult the universe before getting stuck behind a car accident on my way here.” Adrian exhaled sharply, as if debating whether to fire her on the spot or strangle her first. Emma enjoyed pushing his buttons. “Just get in my office,” he muttered, walking inside without waiting for her. She followed, rolling her eyes.