Irielle's employees watched her pace back and forth across the business floor, her boots striking hard against the polished wood.
Her sharp expression and furrowed brows made the room feel heavier with every step.
No one dared approach her; all of them knew that if they misstepped now, she looked like she might bite their heads off.
And yet, that same intensity also made them feel safer. The troublesome customers who often came to provoke or haggle always thought twice when Irielle was present.
The sheer force of her presence was enough to silence complaints before they were voiced.
Finally, she stopped pacing and sat down, dragging a deep breath through her nose. Her eyes closed, her shoulders lowering a fraction.
The employees exchanged glances, silently relieved. When she exhaled that long, steady sigh, it meant she had at least pushed her irritation down.
But the momentary peace shattered when the door creaked open.
