POV: Vivian | Timeline: Tuesday afternoon
"Is there something you need to tell me, Vivian?"
Alexander's voice cut through the air like a blade. I stood frozen in the conference room doorway, heart pounding so hard I could hear it in my ears.
"I'm fine, Mr. Kane." The lie tasted bitter on my tongue. "The room was warm. I got a little flushed during the presentation."
He studied me for a long moment. Those dark eyes swept over my face, down my body, back up again. Like he was cataloging every detail. Every micro-expression. Every tiny tell that might give me away.
"You're usually more composed."
He moved closer. One step. Two. Until he was right there, barely a foot away. Close enough that I could smell his cologne—something expensive, woodsy, with hints of leather and sandalwood. Some
