Vale’s POV
The Maybach purred along the coastal road, waves crashing far below. Vera sat beside me, her hands clasped tightly in her lap, stealing glances my way. The city lights faded behind us, leaving only moonlight and tension.
“You’re very quiet, Vera,” I said, keeping my voice low and calm. “Something on your mind?”
She shifted, her dark hair catching the dim interior light. “I’m… confused, Mr. Vale. All day, every day, you’ve been so demanding. Harsh, even. And now you’re taking me to your home? It feels like a test I didn’t study for.”
I chuckled softly, one hand resting on the wheel, the other brushing her knee lightly. She didn’t pull away. “Smart girl. It was a test. You passed with flying colors. Most secretaries would have quit by day three. You thrived under pressure. It
