Joana halted in her tracks, her heart already pounding, as she locked eyes with the Alpha billionaire. A whiskey glass in his hand, a shadow of sorrow lingered behind his steely gray eyes as they traversed her hair, her visage, and ultimately down to her new blue dress. His countenance bore a blend of anguish and allure; the influence of alcohol seemed to unveil his emotions starkly, contrasting his earlier guarded demeanor.
"Hello," she greeted, her voice somewhat strained as she sought to dissolve the uncomfortable silence. "You're up late."
He remained silent. After a lingering gaze at her attire, he pivoted on his heel and retreated to his quarters.
The next day passed without a glimpse of Elijah. On the subsequent day, the absence persisted - when not engaged at work, he secluded h
