Jonathan stepped into the building and paused, taking in his surroundings.
He had been here before—but only ever as a visitor. He knew the way to the reception. Lily's office. Nowhere else.
He looked ahead and spotted a tall, slim woman approaching him.
"Hello, Mr. Vanguard. It looks like you're lost."
Jonathan let out a small breath."I mean… yes. This building is big."
"But you've been here so many times, sir," she said with an awkward smile, gesturing toward the left hallway. "This way."
He followed her.
"Now, Mr. Vanguard, this year's—"
Jonathan wasn't really listening anymore.
The building felt bigger than he remembered.
He used to come here often,dropping off lunch for Lily, or taking her out when she needed a break. He remembered how she would vent about work… about how Mr. Wilfred pushed her too hard.
Speaking of the devil…
People began filing into the conference room.
And then he saw her.
She was talking to another woman as they walked in. Dressed formally, composed, confident
She looked different.
Stronger.
Like she belonged in a room where decisions were made.
Jonathan slowed to a stop, watching her.
"Her name is Lily Richards," the woman beside him said. "She's representing Denwalk this year."
Jonathan turned slightly, his eyes flicking to the name tag pinned neatly to her blouse.
Ms. Emelia Banks.
"Who's representing us this year?" he asked casually.
Emelia blinked, then let out a small, amused laugh.
"Oh? You forgot the best employee of the year? Mr. Sam Hemmingsworth."
As if on cue, a slim man approached them, extending his hand confidently.
"I won't disappoint you, sir."
Jonathan shook his hand, offering a polite smile.
"I'm sure you won't."
Sam nodded and headed into the conference room.
Jonathan watched him go.
"Wait," he said, turning back to Emelia. "The representatives… they work together, right? I mean—him and Ms. Lily?"
Emelia frowned slightly."Um… yes, sir. I thought you knew that."
"Oh, I did," Jonathan replied smoothly. "Just checking."
He adjusted his jacket."Come on. Let's go in."
But as he walked forward, something shifted behind his calm expression.
An idea had already formed.
It would cause chaos.
It would complicate things.
But if it gave him what he wanted…
Jonathan's lips curved ever so slightly.
It wouldn't hurt to be a little selfish.
After all,
He was the boss.