Chapter 82

Esther stormed out of Damien's office, her heart racing with frustration and indignation. How dare he challenge her authority and dismiss her with such scorn? It was meant to be a partnership built on mutual benefit, yet he had the audacity to speak to her as if she were just a mere distraction, an obstacle in his misguided pursuit of love with his artist ex.
As she paced down the sterile hallway, her heels clicking with anger against the polished marble floor, Esther made her way to Edward's office. He had always held a certain power over her—a darkness that drew her in time and again. In his arms, she often found the solace and attention she craved, a stark departure from the frustrations of her life with Damien.
She reached Edward's office door, took a moment to compose herself, and then stepped inside. A soft sigh escaped her lips as she closed and locked the door behind her. The room was adorned with dark wood furniture, paintings of prosperity and control, and an air of authority that was intoxicating. Edward was seated behind his large desk, eyes focused on a stack of company reports. He looked up as she entered, a flicker of surprise crossing his face, quickly replaced by the upward curve of anticipation on his lips.