A Quiet Storm

Adeline returned to her desk after Seraphina's departure, her expression unreadable. Nathan handed her a folder, offering no commentary about the heiress's surprise visit—and she didn't bring it up either.

She opened the file and began reading, but her thoughts refused to settle—slipping through her focus like loose threads unraveling from a careful seam.

That evening, while walking through the executive corridor to drop off final reports, she paused outside Elias Waylen's office. The door stood slightly ajar.

She knocked gently.

Elias (coolly): "Come in."

She stepped inside, holding the file in both hands.

Adeline: "Final figures from the Singapore proposal. Legal's cleared the amendments."

Elias didn't look up immediately. When he did, his face revealed little—except perhaps the faintest trace of fatigue. He accepted the file with a nod, offering no verbal response.

She lingered.

Adeline (lightly): "You've had quite the visitor."

Elias looked up again, sharper this time.

Elias: "Seraphina drops by unannounced. It isn't uncommon."

Adeline gave a polite smile, carefully neutral.

Adeline: "Of course. Socialites do as they please."

His gaze remained on her just a breath too long, though his voice stayed even.

Elias: "I hope it didn't disrupt your afternoon."

Adeline (shrugging): "Not in the least. We all have interruptions."

A beat passed. He turned his attention back to the document.

Elias: "It looks good. Once you've cleaned up the formatting, pass it to Nathan."

She nodded and turned to leave.

But just before she reached the door, his voice stopped her—measured, but laced with something more.

Elias: "She has no business being in this office."

Adeline paused, her hand hovering near the doorknob.

Adeline (gently): "Nor do I, some might say."

He glanced up.

But by then, she was already gone.