That night, the assistant received a termination letter—she wouldn’t need to show up for work tomorrow.
She’d pulled every string and played every card to climb her way into the executive office, hoping her looks would catch Ian’s eye. Her plan was simple: seduce him, become his office lover, and secure her position at the top.
But things didn’t go her way. She’d barely found a chance to get close to Ian before he dismissed her without a hint of mercy.
When she received the termination papers, her mind went blank for a few seconds. She remembered the way Ian had looked at her earlier—a flicker of desire, or so she thought. That look had given her hope, made her believe she had a shot.
But, in the end, she just wasn’t what Ian was looking for. She’d have to chalk it up to bad luck.
***
By late July, Meridian Dynamics looked imposing in the morning light. A sleek Bentley pulled into the parking lot, and Faye stepped out, dressed in a designer gown. As she locked her car and started toward the entrance, a voice called out behind her.
“Faye.”
She froze, her eyes narrowing in surprise. Turning around, she saw Horace approaching, hands in his pockets, his gaze lingering appreciatively.
“Horace?” Faye feigned surprise. “What are you doing here?”
His eyes traveled over the car, and he nodded in admiration. “That’s a hell of a ride, Faye. Suits you.”
If anyone else had complimented her like that, Faye would’ve enjoyed it. But coming from Horace, she tensed. She knew he wasn’t here for small talk.
“I heard you’re working at a dealership now. How’s that going?” she asked, her tone soft but distant.
Horace gave a rueful smile. “I’m not exactly a top salesperson. Not making much money.”
His attempt to gain her sympathy only made Faye uncomfortable. Her fingers tightened around her car keys.
“Don’t get discouraged,” she offered, trying to sound supportive. “I’m sure you’ll find your niche.”
Horace hesitated, then got to the point. “Actually, Faye, I was hoping you could help me. I heard your dad’s company went public, and he’s got a big stake in medical equipment. I want to work for him—do you think you could put in a good word for me?”
Faye’s expression cooled. “Horace, you know I never get involved in my father’s business. I probably can’t help.”
Faye had just turned away but stopped at his words. Her eyes flashed coldly. “What, you think I can’t measure up to her?”
Horace hurriedly shook his head. “Of course not. I know your research skills are top-notch, too.”
Faye had heard enough. She strode toward the towering glass doors of Meridian Dynamics. Horace watched her disappear inside, regret flickering in his eyes.
He knew he could join another research team, but after what happened last time, his reputation was shot. In this field, he’d be just another face in the lab, with no chance to rise through the ranks.
Getting into Yeaton Holdings was his best bet. Rumor had it even Ian had invested in the company—if a billionaire like him saw its potential, the future there had to be bright.
Inside her office, Faye watched from the window as Horace finally walked away. She breathed a sigh of relief, thinking of the longing in his eyes. The idea that he still dreamed of a future with her was almost laughable.
A man who couldn’t recognize his own limits, who needed her help just to get by—how could she ever take him seriously?
There was only one man she considered marriage material: Joel.
But Joel’s world revolved around his research, and in his heart, Eleanor would always come first, even if she’d never given him the time of day.

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