"The entire executive team, sir. And..." The assistant hesitated.
"Spit it out," Alexander snapped.
"He specifically asked if Mrs. Blackwood would be attending."
Alexander's steps faltered for just a heartbeat. Then he continued walking. "Purchase the sapphire necklace from Cartier. The one from their latest collection."
The assistant nodded, already typing the instruction into his tablet.
"Have it delivered to—" Alexander paused. "Have it delivered to the Wilson’s estate."
He was convinced I would run to my childhood home—the mansion my parents had left behind, which he'd deliberately kept in legal limbo to prevent me from selling.
He had no idea I'd never set foot there again.
One week later, well past midnight.
Alexander unlocked the front door of the mansion. The deal he'd been orchestrating for months had finally closed.
He loosened his tie as he entered the dimly lit living room, immediately noticing the slender figure curled up on the sofa.
"Lauren, how many times have I told you not to wait up for me? I've explained that these negotiations are crucial for the company's future, and I don't need you making me feel guilty for—"
His words died as he drew closer and realized his mistake.