The following Monday brought a test she hadn’t anticipated.
They were at a client dinner—an important one, the kind where deals worth millions were sealed over overpriced wine and forced laughter. Eight people around an elegant table at a Michelin-starred restaurant, champagne flowing freely, everyone performing their expected roles in the theater of corporate courtship.
Vivian was seated across from Alexander, unable to touch him, forced to maintain professional distance while making pleasant conversation with a CFO who thought he was significantly funnier than he actually was. She laughed at his jokes. Asked intelligent questions about his company’s expansion plans. Played the role of capable, charming assistant to perfection.
Alexander watched her across the table. His expression was
