Chapter 344
James studied me for a momen “By the way, William’s birthday is this weekend. The Stark family always makes a big production of it. He likes having everyone there.”
“I bet he does,” I muttered. “Nothing like a chaotic family gathering stir up more drama.”
I glanced at Brandon’s closed office door, weighing my options. I could turn around and avoid William and Lyanna altogether, or I could walk in there and face them head–on.
Running away wasn’t my style.
“Wish me luck,” I said to James, then pushed the door
open without hocking.
Brandon was at his desk, focused on his computer screen. William and Lyanna sat in the small seating area to the right, where Lyanna appeared to be preparing tea for the older man. All three looked up when I entered.
Brandon’s expression softened almost imperceptibly when he saw me a change so subtle that only someone who knew him well would notice.
“Do you need something?” he asked, his voice professionally neutral.
“Leg asked me to bring you these files,” I replied, walking over and placing the folder on his desk.
Brandon glanced at the documents. “Leo’s getting more efficient. I just mentioned this two days ago and he’s already delivered. How are the negotiations going?”
“We’re almost there,” I reported. “Once the first round of funding comes through, we can get started. Edward’s not available, but Landon is helping out. He seems pretty capable.”
“Good,” Brandon nodded, pulling another file from his drawer and handing it to me. “Give this to Leo. Tell him to start as soon as possible–this project has been delayed long enough.”
“If that’s all, I’ll head back down, Mr. Stark,” I said, turning to leave without acknowledging the other two people in the room.
“Wait!” William’s sharp voice stopped me at the door.
I paused, my hand on the doorknob. “Were you speaking to me, Mr. Stark?”
William’s face tightened with irritation. “Who else would I be talking to, a ghost?”
“I wasn’t sure,” I replied with a polite smile. “What can I do for you?”
“You–William started, but I cut him off.
“Aren’t you familiar with Stark Group protocols?” I asked innocently. Not just anyone is allowed on the twenty–seventh floor.”
I glanced at Brandon, who had returned his attention to his work, deliberately ignoring the brewing confrontation.
“I’m well aware of company protocols,” I continued. “I’m here because Brandon requested these files. If he wants me to leave, I’ll go immediately.” I turned to Lyanna. “But speaking of protocols, Ms. York, isn’t it true that only Brandon’s executive assistant and his chief of staff are normally allowed in his office? With all these confidential documents around, security is important. Wouldn’t you agree?”
Lyanna’s composure slipped for a moment. “Yes, that’s correct.”
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Chapter 344
“See?” I said with a bright smile, “Ms. York knows the rules so well already, and she’s only been here a few days! So, Ms. York, what’s supposed to happen to people who know the rules but break them anyway?”
William’s face flushed with ang. “How dare you!”
“I wouldn’t dare,” I replied smoothly. “It’s still working hours, after all. Was there anything else you needed, Mr. Stark? If not, I should get back to work. Unlike some people, I actually have to eat my paycheck to support myself and my man. We can’t all be so fortunate.”
William looked like he might burst a blood vessel. Lyanna sat frozen her hand still holding the teapot.
I could feel Brandon watching me now, and when I glanced at him, I caught the ghost of a smile tugging at his lips.
“That will be all, Ms. Taylor,” he said, dismissing me with, a nod.
I walked out with my head held high, feeling William’s glare burning into my back–the entire way.
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