A Vow of Deception, A Vow of Revenge novel Chapter 10

Winona froze, caught off guard by Elvis's words. She hadn't expected him to say something like that to her—he actually seemed annoyed.

But why? Was it just because she wanted to leave the dinner early even though she was sick? They weren't nearly close enough for him to care that much.

"It's not that..." she started, hesitating. Honestly, she'd only wanted to go back to say goodbye to her colleagues before leaving. But picturing Celia basking in everyone's attention, Winona realized there wasn't much point. Tonight wasn't about her, and no one would notice if she slipped out.

A sharp knock at the door interrupted her thoughts. A man in a smart suit—clearly an assistant—stood in the doorway. "Mr. Rogers, everyone's waiting for you."

When Elvis was involved in any business, he was always the center of attention; without him, the evening couldn't go on.

"Sorry for taking up your time, Mr. Rogers," Winona said quickly.

"It's fine," Elvis replied, his expression shifting back to its usual cool indifference, as if his earlier irritation had been a figment of her imagination. He strode past the assistant, giving the man a pointed look. The assistant nodded in understanding.

After Elvis left, Winona rested for a few more minutes, then made her way out of the restaurant. She stood by the curb, about to hail a cab, when a sleek black car pulled up in front of her.

The driver's door opened and the same assistant from before stepped out. "Miss Thorne," he greeted her with a polite smile, "Mr. Rogers asked me to see you home."

"That's really not necessary," Winona protested. "I've already imposed on Mr. Rogers enough tonight."

"It's no trouble at all," he assured her. "Besides, the Rogers Corporation and the Thorne Group have worked closely together these past two years, and there are some major projects coming up. It's only right for Mr. Rogers to look after you."

He paused, then added, "Taking care of you is the least he can do."

Winona thought for a moment. If their companies would be working together, she was bound to run into Elvis more often. Refusing his help now might not be wise.

"In that case, thank you," she said softly.

"My pleasure, Miss Thorne." The assistant opened the car door for her with practiced courtesy.

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