Ash's pov ;
I couldn't believe what I was hearing. My mind raced, torn between anger and desperation. I hated how he could make me feel so powerless, how he could twist the situation to his advantage. Yet, the thought of reclaiming my career kept me standing there, despite the shame.
My throat felt tight and I struggled to find my voice. "Elijah, this isn't…"
His expression softened for a brief moment before the cold mask slipped back into place. He leaned forward slightly, his eyes locking onto mine. "Come on, what are you waiting for?"
My heart pounded in my ears. Every instinct screamed at me to turn and walk away, to keep my dignity. But I couldn't. Not if there was a chance, even a small one, to get my life back on track.
With a deep breath, I took a tentative step forward, then another, until I was standing right in front of him. Elijah's gaze never wavered, and I felt his eyes burning into me, assessing my every move.
