Beneath the Billionaire's Shadow

nd, the threat to the industry, a constant shadow that wouldn't let go. The pressure, palpable and tightening around

nawed at her, but she buried herself deeper into work, avoid

another series of financial reports, her

is here. Shoul

screamed. She couldn't help but groan internally. The la

uickly typed back, trying to sup

The sharp suit, the calm expression. Nothing about him had changed, and yet everything about this

steady despite the unease building ins

ted to check in on you. After all, we share a l

Is that so? Because it seems like every time you 'check in

. You've chosen a tough path, Harriet.

, her voice calm. "But I can manage on my own.

expression. He stepped closer, his gaze unwavering. "I'm

st. She quickly shoved the feeling aside. "You have a funny way of showing it," s

ion between them was palpable. "You're still angry

s on the future, and I refuse to l

y her words. "I know I made mistakes. I'm not blind to that.

sh of heat to her face. "There's

avering, as though searching for something in her

emotions in check. "I don't need you to believe me.

g hers. "You've changed, Harriet. I didn't see it b

ce was sharp. "Because I've learned t

respect your opinion, but I will not walk away. Harriet, I sti

rustration mounting. "I built this company from scra

u don't need my help. But it does

at, her emotions swirling. "I don't

pocket and pulled out a small box, placing it carefully on the

she asked, her t

" he repl

ox. Inside lay a delicate necklace, its diamond pendant gl

ushed the box away, her em

jaw tight. "It's not about what yo

er. "I need nothing from you, Arthur. Not this necklace, not

y concealed it. "Very well. If that's how you f

alked out of her office, leaving her

irlwind of thoughts. After a deep breath, she sla

nd. You need allies, Harriet. Though she refused to admit it, a small par

ot after everything he'd put her through. No. Turning back wasn't an

a sense of determinat