Melissa Hart scoffed in disbelief the moment she heard Jayden's decision, the reaction slipping out before she could restrain it. It was subtle, almost imperceptible, but in a room this tense, even the smallest shift carried weight. Realizing her mistake, she quickly straightened her posture and composed herself.
When her eyes flickered toward Sarah, she noticed the younger woman's confusion, and that only made Melissa clear her throat and nod as if nothing had happened. Still, when she looked back at Jayden, she found him already watching her, his sharp gaze fixed on her with unmistakable authority.
"Miss Hart, do you get me?" Jayden repeated, his voice calm but edged with tension, making the air feel heavier than before.
