ATTRACTED

r colleagues had given way to outright speculation and thinly veiled suspicion. Mia couldn't help but ove

he was looking at her

ying late together, worki

he praise and promotions. She must have

te that she had somehow manipulated her way into Alexander's favor? She had worked tirelessly, sacrificing countless hours

elf from Alexander, keeping their interactions strictly profession

tensify. Mia could feel the weight of suspicious stares following her as she moved thro

ing at her desk when Elise, the head of market

nd of the day. Can you manage that, or do you

g around the pen in her hand. "Of course, Elis

Excellent. We can't all rely on... _spec

with barely contained anger. How dare Elise imply that she wa

She would not let these petty rumors and accusations distract her from her duties

t feel the weight of Alexander's gaze upon her. She glanced up to find

away. There was a silent understanding that passed between them, a sh

him to understand. _I'm handling this, I promise. Please, d

nclined his head slightly, a gesture that spoke v

y bereft. She knew that she would have to continue navigating these murky waters alone, but t

dvice now openly questioned her competence, challenging her decisions and undermining her authority. The once-bustling office

eart and soul into her work, her dedication and professionalism shining through like a beacon in the darkness. Wheneve

ve for the day, Alexander emerged from h

eld, a word, i

lities of what he might say. Had he finally decided to address t

he replied, her voice betrayi

t of his gaze upon her. "I... wanted to commend you on your exceptional work,

s, her shoulders relaxing ever so slightly. "Tha

the... whispers and speculation. But I want you to know that I see your value, your dedication, and y

d tears. "I... I won't, Mr. Blackwood. I'm here to do my job to

what I like to hear. Keep up the excellent work, Miss Summerfie

e knew that she had weathered the storm. The rumors and gossip might continue to swirl, but she wa