chapter 40

The sun had already begun to set by the time Elena returned home, her heart still softened from the visit to the orphanage. She walked into the penthouse with a gentle smile, her arms tired but spirit light. The faint scent of basil and garlic greeted her before she even reached the dining area.

She blinked.

The table was set for two. A meal—pasta, roasted vegetables, and a bottle of red wine—sat under warm light.

Sebastian was in the kitchen, loosening the cuffs of his white shirt, sleeves rolled up, watching something bubble on the stove.

"You cooked?" Elena asked, stunned.

Sebastian turned, slightly startled, then casually leaned on the counter. "Don't act so surprised. I'm not completely helpless."

She raised a brow, amused. "This from the man who asked Mason to open a yogurt container two weeks ago?"

He smirked. "That lid was stubborn."

Elena chuckled and set down her bag. "What's the occasion?"

"You've been running around nonstop for days. I figured... maybe I could return the favor for once," he said, then added, almost shyly, "You cooked for me before. It's only fair."

The sincerity in his voice struck her. For a man known to be icy and untouchable in the business world, Sebastian Hart was becoming more human in front of her—and it was starting to get dangerous.

She took a seat as he plated the food, then joined her with two glasses of wine. During the meal, they spoke of lighter things—an embarrassing boardroom moment Mason had, a funny review about their product going viral, and childhood foods they hated.

Then, as the plates were cleared and the wine bottle neared empty.

She stood and grabbed her bag " Time for me to get down on those documents in my study."

As she turned to leave, Sebastian stood too, but paused.

"Elena," he said suddenly, his voice softer now.

She turned to face him, brows raised.

"I meant it when I said I admire what you've built. I didn't see it coming at first… but I see it now."

There was something more behind his words—an unspoken layer.

"Thank you," she said, her voice quiet.

He stepped forward, brushing a loose strand of hair behind her ear. His hand lingered, warm against her cheek.

Her heart skipped.

"Goodnight, Elena," he murmured...with a smirk hanging on his lips.

She didn't respond right away. Just looked into his eyes—eyes that weren't as cold as they once seemed.

Then she smiled softly. "Goodnight, Sebastian."

As she turned and walked to her room, she felt it again—that growing pull. Whatever was happening between them wasn't just situational...alas she brushed the feeling aside.

But it was becoming something neither of them could ignore much longer.