Alec raised his palm, his movements smooth and absolute. The gathered faces saw his fingers snap—sharply, precisely—signaling an immediate end. “Gathering purpose is over,” he announced, voice cool and unyielding. “You all received the information I gave. Now go back to work.”
A wave of nods, a scattered shuffle of feet—everyone dispersed respectfully, leaving behind a charged hush. In the doorway, Salena slipped quietly into the corridor, flanked by her men. With each step she took away from the ballroom, relief and pain warred inside her. Freedom at last—but away from a man she still couldn’t help longing for.
Back in the silent office, Alec turned to Melissa with a mocking softness. “You okay, wife?” His tone was casual, almost tender—and yet laced with steel.
She remained still, imp
