Walls do have ears like they say, Isabela walked into Vivienne's office, her palms still warm from the weight of Ethan Lawson's world. She hadn't even fully processed her first day in the penthouse when Vivienne's sharp smile cut through the air.
"Well, I heard the news," Vivienne said, her tone equal parts pride and calculation. "You're our woman on the inside now. Our access to la crème de la crème."
Isabela blinked, half-expecting scorn, but Vivienne was almost…thrilled.
"This is an opportunity for both of us," Vivienne continued, eyes gleaming. "You'll be my secret doorway. But understand this, your job here changes. Three days a week at the penthouse, two days here. And every week, you report back to me on his progress. Every detail."
Isabela nodded, though unease pressed on her chest.
Her colleagues whispered as soon as she stepped out. The shock was plain, Vivienne never bent her rules for anyone. Clara, especially, was fuming.
"You're making a huge mistake, Vivienne," Clara snapped once the door closed. "I've been here ten years, loyal, waiting for my turn. And you bend for a scholarship girl?"
Vivienne's expression turned to stone. "Special treatment is earned, Clara. Isabela has what you lack: quiet confidence. Clients like Mr. Lawson respect that."
Later that evening, as Isabela gathered her things, Clara cornered her.
"I don't know how you did it," Clara hissed, her voice sour. "But you conned your way in. Use your charm on Vivienne. You think you're better than us?"
"I worked hard for this, Clara. Just like everyone else. I don't know what you are talking about."
Clara laughed bitterly. "Hard work? No. You took what I deserve. And trust me, you'll regret it."
The words stung, but Isabela steadied herself. She wasn't going to let Clara's venom derail her. She had bigger things to focus on now. Clara could be a lot to handle sometimes; Isabela was used to it. She would be working mostly from home now, and in a more comfortable penthouse, no less.