e, dramatic painting on the far wall. Robert Sterling, the CEO of Sterli

the role of the quiet, attentive associate. She listened as

Althea was no longer just an accessory. She offered a few quiet, precise observatio

r with new respect. Felix ga

felt a growing sense of unease. Every det

ough their open door. That was where she and Damarcus had

marcus had bought it at a Christie's auction and donated it

e of her hearing, making it hard to concentrate

ward Althea. "Your assistant is not only charming bu

landed with a thud. It blurred the professiona

ble asset." His response was masterful, deflecting the per

felt her che

wine glass. She instinctively

on to it, he addressed the waiter. "Gi

The simple, quiet gesture of respect was a balm to h

take a call, leaving Althea

d, his voice low and conce

ust ... a lot on my mind." She couldn't explain that

a tightness in her chest. The air w

ispered, rising from her chair. She nee

go, a flicker of

et swallowing the sound of her footsteps. She too

. As she passed a corner, a small commotion from the main lobby

he hea

h a natural authority that sent a jolt

, but it was

g late," the voice said. "

s Dam

nted to the floor. The bloo

he was asking for

ce replied, "Bordeaux Room,

ro

er brain. This wasn't a coincidence. It c

get back. She turned, but her legs