Chapter 9 The Edge Of Trust

• Clara entered Ethan's office with her heart pounding loudly in her ears, feeling the oppressive atmosphere there. With his stance straight and uncompromising, Ethan stood at the window, silhouetted against the city lights. After a moment of hesitation, Clara's annoyance erupted.
• With her voice like a whip, she shouted, "Why do you keep testing me?" "You have no faith in anyone, do you?"
• Ethan pivoted, his sharp eyes meeting hers. With a voice as icy as steel, he answered, "Trust is earned, not given."