," Emily said, her voice tinged with genuine gratitude. They both smiled, thei

l expression forming as a familiar memor

colleagues in the marketing department. He

m the only daughter of my mother. She did everything in her power to ensure I

s. "And what about your father?" he asked gentl

. Gray immediately sensed the shift in her energy.His qu

aid softly. "I grew up never knowing him. When I asked about him, my m

, and though she smiled, it was cle

er must be a remarkable woman to raise you so well, all on her own. I admire the woman you've become;brilliant, creative,

t his emotions carry him a little too far.

ated his sincerity, believing this to be how he treated all his employees, not real

and professional, though his heart was still quietly humming. "You may return to your duties. Remember,

taff room now," Emily said politely, rising to her feet and walking toward the door

was no denying it-Emily's beauty stirred something in him, just as Lyra's had, though in a different, more subtle way. Em

.

Evening - G

favorite spot; a cozy and private lounge where laughter came easily and w

me again?" Lyra asked, casually sipping her jui

nced away for a moment before

" Lyra noted. "W

he said, his tone laced with admiration. "S

of the others say she looks li

esemblance. But Emily... She's incredibl

humble at work, but who knows what storms s

issing her point. "So you think she mi

people just want to keep their jobs. Submissio

ouldn't judge a book by its co

her," Lyra teased, and they

nd in hand, walking out into the n

t your place," Lyra said, her voice lower, s

g smile playing on his lips. "Then l

entleman. Lyra slid in, her short, body-hugging gown highlighti

d the car after Lyra joined him. As she walked toward the entrance ahead of him, his gaze inadvertently trac

inded him exactly why he could never quite resist Lyra's allure. Her presence wa