The office smelled faintly of polished wood, coffee, and the kind of stress only high-powered executives could create. Emmy sat at her desk, her fingers drumming lightly on the keyboard as she reviewed yet another stack of files Aiden had assigned her.
Why does it feel like every day here is a test? she thought, opening the first folder with deliberate care. Maybe because it is… and because that smirk of his is permanently burned into my brain.
---
A Hidden Discovery
The files were mundane at first—financial summaries, project proposals, and internal memos—but as she dug deeper, a peculiar pattern began to emerge. Certain transactions seemed too well-hidden, with coded notations and unusual dates.
Oh, Mac… you think you can hide from me? Not a chance.
Emmy leaned closer, scanning the numbers and notes. She scribbled furiously in her notebook, connecting dots, highlighting anomalies, and forming a mental map of Keylor's secret operations.
Every empire has a skeleton in the closet… and I just found a whole graveyard.
---
Aiden's Interference—or Help?
Aiden appeared behind her chair, his presence immediately making her straighten up. "You're digging deep," he said, his tone casual but sharp, "but be careful. Some files aren't meant to be found."
Emmy's lips curved into a sly smile. "Thanks for the warning… or is that a threat?"
He smirked, leaning closer. "Maybe a little of both. But don't let me stop you—I'm curious to see what you'll uncover."
Curious… that's one word for it. Obsessed, more like, Emmy thought, trying not to notice the way his sharp gaze made her stomach flutter.
---
A Flirtatious Distraction
As she continued her work, Aiden leaned over her desk under the guise of checking a spreadsheet. Emmy could feel the heat radiating from him, and though she tried to focus, she couldn't help but notice the way his tailored suit hugged his shoulders perfectly.
Focus, Emmy. Revenge first. Stop noticing him.
"You know," he said smoothly, "you work fast… but you type like you're trying to impress someone."
Emmy shot him a glare. "And what if I am? Are you jealous?" she teased, unable to hide a grin.
Aiden's smirk deepened, and he shook his head. "Jealous? Please. I'm amused. And maybe… a little impressed. Don't get used to it."
Impressed… really? Okay, maybe a little blush is acceptable.
---
The Files That Could Change Everything
Hours passed as Emmy unraveled more of the hidden secrets within the files. It became clear that Mac Keylor was hiding not just money, but alliances, manipulations, and betrayals. Each document was a thread, and she was beginning to weave a tapestry that could destroy him from the inside.
This is it. The breakthrough I've been waiting for.
Her heart raced as she realized the magnitude of what she had discovered. This wasn't just an ordinary company—Keylor's empire was riddled with secrets, and she was now holding the map to expose them.
---
An Unexpected Ally
Just as she was about to dive into the next stack, Lara appeared again, carrying a coffee tray with an apologetic smile. "Thought you might need a boost. You've been at it all morning."
Emmy accepted the cup with a grateful nod. "Thanks, Lara. You're a lifesaver."
Allies are rare here… but I think I just found one.
Lara hesitated, then leaned closer. "Ms. Carter… there's more. I overheard a conversation yesterday. Something about hidden transactions and… a project no one is supposed to know about. I can show you if you want."
Emmy's eyes lit up. Perfect. Exactly the kind of lead I need. "Lead the way—but quietly. If anyone sees us, it could ruin everything."
---
Aiden Notices
Aiden suddenly appeared, standing behind them with a raised eyebrow. "Discussing secrets without me?" he asked, his tone playful but laced with authority.
Emmy straightened, pretending innocence. "Just… brainstorming ways to improve efficiency."
Aiden smirked. "Efficiency… huh? I like your style. Keep it up, and you might survive longer than most."
Survive longer… or thrive? Emmy thought, inwardly grinning. Either way, I'm winning.
---
A Romantic Moment
As the afternoon wore on, Emmy found herself working side by side with Aiden, reviewing the files and connecting the dots. Their hands occasionally brushed over documents, sending tiny shocks of awareness through her.
Focus, Emmy. Revenge first… swooning later.
"See this?" Aiden pointed to a series of coded emails. "Most people would miss the pattern here. But you… you caught it immediately."
Emmy felt a tiny rush of pride. "Thanks. Years of practice at finding what others overlook."
He leaned a little closer, lowering his voice. "And yet… you still manage to surprise me. Dangerous and clever. I like it."
Like it… dangerous? Ugh. Why does he make it sound so flattering?
---
A Funny Mishap
In the middle of their discussion, Lara accidentally knocked over a coffee cup, sending liquid sloshing dangerously close to the files. Emmy jumped, trying to save the papers.
"Careful!" she exclaimed, as Aiden moved faster than she expected, scooping up the stack with a grin. "Don't worry, new girl. I've got it under control."
Under control… or showing off? Emmy rolled her eyes, laughing despite herself. "You're lucky you're helping, not hindering."
Aiden chuckled. "Helping, hindering… it's all part of the fun, don't you think?"
Fun… if by fun he means chaos and teasing, then yes, absolutely.
---
Evening Cliffhanger
By the end of the day, Emmy had a comprehensive understanding of the files, including a hidden pattern in Keylor's secret dealings that could be used to leverage power or revenge.
She glanced at Aiden, who was watching her with that same unreadable expression. "You did well today. Impressively well," he said.
Emmy smirked. "Thanks. Don't get used to being impressed."
Aiden's smirk deepened. "Oh, I plan to notice everything. It makes it more interesting."
Interesting… he doesn't know the half of it. Emmy thought, feeling a surge of excitement. Tomorrow, I dig deeper. I expose more. And maybe… I survive teasing from this infuriatingly attractive man.
As the elevator doors closed, Emmy felt a mix of triumph, anticipation, and a flutter she couldn't quite name. The game was getting more dangerous, but also strangely… exhilarating.
Mac Keylor won't know what hit him. And Aiden… well, he's about to make my mission a lot more… complicated.