Instead, she placed the linens down and retrieved a light blanket from a nearby chair. She draped it over him to keep the chill away. She then gathered the money carefully, placing the stacks neatly on the nightstand. After straightening the curtains and tidying the room, she left quietly, closing the door with gentle consideration.
When evening arrived, Callum reviewed the footage on his laptop. He expected to feel vindicated, perhaps even smug. But as he watched Ana’s tenderness, something inside him shifted. Her actions were simple, yet sincere. She had not hesitated. She had not even seemed tempted. Instead, she had worried about his comfort. A sense of shame settled upon him, followed by the unfamiliar ache of remorse.
The next morning he requested her presence. Ana entered his study with the same respectful composure she displayed every day. She clasped her hands lightly in front of her.
“You asked for me, sir?”
Callum nodded slowly. “Yes. I need to speak to you about something important.” He stood, unable to maintain the authoritative posture he usually relied on. “I owe you an apology.”
Ana’s brows knitted with confusion. “For what, Mr. Avery?”