Zoned Out

"For the duration of the project, I will be serving as the executive director, and your respective CEOs will act as your team leaders," Ace announced, his voice steady as he addressed the room. His sharp gaze swept over the conference table. "Always run things by your superior to ensure a smooth workflow."

Zara sat quietly, staring at him across the table, but her mind was elsewhere.

The bruises on his hands were fading, but she still noticed them. The cut on his cheek, almost invisible now, reminded her of that night.

'I'm like a rose?' His words from the bar echoed in her mind. She bit the inside of her cheek to stop the grin creeping onto her lips. 

But then, a different thought crept in, replacing the warmth with a chill.

"Why did he talk about giving his parents grandchildren?"

'How did he get those injuries?'

Her brows furrowed slightly. 'Did he get into a fight?'

She shook her head slightly, 'No, that didn't seem like it.'