Naturally, she didn’t get far. She wasn’t even allowed inside the reception; the security at the entrance stopped her cold.

With no other option, she pulled out her phone and dialed Ernest’s number.

“Hello?” His voice came through warm and deep, carrying a trace of ease as he said her name. “Elissa.”

She didn’t waste time. “I’m outside your office. They won’t let me in.”

“You’re here?” His voice lifted slightly, surprised—and pleased. “Don’t worry. I’ll let them know.”

The call ended. A moment later, the security guard returned. “Miss Holland, our apologies. Mr. Flynn confirmed your visit. You’re free to enter.”

“Thank you.” She nodded and stepped inside, walking quickly.

At the front desk, the receptionist was already waiting. “Miss Holland, this way. The private elevator will take you straight to the president’s office.”

“Thanks.”

Elissa drew in a breath and followed. Finally, she reached the top floor. The secretary came over and led her into Ernest’s office. “Miss Holland, please come in. Mr. Flynn is in a meeting but will be with you shortly.”

She offered a drink. “Please enjoy this while you wait. Let us know if you need anything.”

“Thank you.”

“No worries.”

The secretary left, and the room fell silent. Elissa was alone in the president’s office.

She had been here before, and it was for work. Back then, Ernest had been polite, gracious, thoughtful.

Too thoughtful. Now she realized that kindness had been a mask—a polished, convincing lie. What a hypocrite.

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He was exactly who people warned her about.

She glanced at the glass of iced tea on the coffee table but made no move toward it. She wasn’t here for small talk. She wanted answers.

Footsteps echoed just beyond the door.

“Hold the meeting. Have the others come back later.”

“Yes, sir.”

The door opened. Ernest stepped in. Elissa stood, facing him squarely.

“Elissa,” he said.

The serious edge he’d shown outside vanished. His expression softened, a gentle smile playing on his lips.

It was almost tender. Almost like they were still together. Almost.

Elissa felt something twist in her chest—sharp and sudden. She didn’t waste time. “Was it you?” she asked coldly. “Did you tell them to take me off the project?”

He knew the senior executives at her company. It had been because of him that she got in the first place. So with one word from him, she could just as easily be pushed aside.

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