er 3:

n the spot where he had just saved

n, her willingness to give up. What had driven her

to flood his mind. His mom's death on this ve

younger brother, Marcus, had faced, an

on his life. He recalled the countless nights he had spent worryi

ut Ryan had learned to channel

was similar. Had she lost someone dear? Was she struggling to cope with her emo

ansion stood tall and majestic, its sleek modern des

h tall trees. Inside, the interior was opulent, with high ceilings, crystal chandeliers, and lavish

the sweeping staircase, and into the heart of the mansion. The rooms

on the plush carpet. He walked down th

a king-sized bed and a stunning

lay back, letting out a deep breath. He closed his eyes, his mind still

*

efore getting out of bed. He took a refreshing bath,

m with a warm smile. "Good morni

d already laid out a delicious spread of breakfast dis

n grabbed his briefcase

Secretary followed him to his office.

His strong jawline and piercing blue eyes seemed to draw her

road shoulders, and his dark hair was style

omething about Ryan's presence that exuded power and sophistication, making her feel

need you to keep an eye on any unusual calls or messages. If anyo

Ryan," Rachel

here been any responses to th

ss I'll keep you posted as soon as I r

said. "Keep

r she sai

r, Rachel let out a breath she h

had on her, but she was determined

d wandered back to the past. It's been three years since she started w

iend, Jasmine had given her duri

n't you just make a move? You're always talking about ho

her. She began to think about ways to get Ryan's attention,

as the perfect opportunity. They would be spending a weekend at a resort

tling on a sundress that showcased her curves. She had practice

ty, Rachel had mustered up the coura

hing possible for her to be noticed by her boss. But as the night

sment. She had misread the situation entirely, and Ryan had probably

interests and hobbies. She discovered he loved reading bus

ving them on his desk with a note saying she thought he'd enjoy them. Sh

nd say, "Thank you, Rachel. That's very thoughtful of y

a sign, but deep down, she knew she might

ation for his leadership, hoping that on

el couldn't just give up easily, she knew deep down that she wanted more