Chapter 13: Stuck

Jaxon glanced at his wristwatch for what felt like the hundredth time, and this time, his patience snapped. It was already past 7 p.m. He started pacing in front of her desk, his eyes darting to the restroom door every time he passed it.

Finally, the door creaked open, and Isla emerged, softly sniffing. Her head was bowed, and she didn’t notice him standing there until she nearly reached her desk.

Her breath hitched as her gaze lifted, meeting his. “Mr. Jaxon…” she murmured, quickly smoothing the sadness from her expression.

Without a word, Jaxon stepped closer, and Isla found herself frozen in place, as though his presence commanded her feet to stay rooted.

He stopped mere inches away, his intense stare forcing her to lower her eyes. Her heart raced in her chest.

“Is this your new strategy for staying late at work?” he asked, his tone sharp.