replaced by something far more complicated. Alexander Grey wasn't just her boss anymore-he was a puzzle she couldn't solve, a presence that lingered in her mind long after

but wonder why he'd chosen it. As they sat down, Alexander leaned forward, his expression serious. "I know the rumors have been affecting you," he said without preamble. Emma stiffened. "It's nothing I can't handle." "It's unacceptable," he said firmly. "You've worked hard to build your reputation, and I won't allow baseless gossip to tarnish it." His words caught her off guard. "You can't control what people say, Alexander." "Maybe not," he admitted, "but I can make it clear that I won't tolerate disrespect toward you." Emma's chest tightened. "I appreciate that, but... this is bigger than you defending me. People are talking because we've crossed a line-professionally, I mean." Alexander leaned back, studying her intently. "Do you regret it?" The question hit her like a freight train. She opened her mouth to respond, but no words came out. After a long pause, she said softly, "I don't know." He nodded, as though he'd expected her answer. "I can't change who I am, Emma. I've spent my life building walls, keeping people at a distance because it's easier that way. But with you... it's different. I don't want to keep you at a distance." Her breath caught. "Alexander, this-whatever this is-isn't simple. You're my boss. Your world and mine... they don't align." "I know," he said, his voice low. "But I also know I've never felt like this about anyone before. And I think you feel it too." Emma looked away, her heart pounding. She hated how easily he could see through her, how effortlessly he could voice the things she was too afraid to admit. "Alexander, if this goes wrong, I'm the one who loses everything. My job, my reputation-" "You won't," he interrupted, his tone firm. "I won't let that happen." "And how can you promise that?" she asked, her voice tr