Then, colder: “And I’m ordering a full audit of workload and pay across this estate.”
No one argued.
After the meeting, Elena stood in the hallway, heart racing. Adrian joined her moments later.
“You probably think all this is too much,” she said softly. “Just because I fell asleep.”
“No,” he replied. “You fell asleep because no one was looking out for you. Including me.”
She lowered her gaze. “I didn’t think anyone would.”
“I do,” he said simply.
He hesitated, then added, “There’s one more thing. A promise.”
Her pulse quickened.
“I intend to make sure,” Adrian said, “that you finally get the life you’ve been sacrificing for everyone else.”
She didn’t yet understand what that meant.
But soon, the entire mansion would.
Part 3 — 451 words
The next morning, Elena walked into the kitchen to find every staff member whispering in low, electric tones. Several glanced at her with something like awe.
“What happened?” she asked quietly.
No one had time to answer—because Adrian himself entered behind her.
“Elena,” he said. “Come with me.”
Her heart skipped. She followed him down the hallway toward the study—his private sanctuary, where business deals worth billions were negotiated.
On the desk sat a folder with her name on it.
“Sit,” Adrian said gently.
She did, wary.
He took a breath. “I reviewed your employment records, your financial situation, and the emergency contacts you listed.”
Her face flushed with embarrassment. Her “financial situation” was barely surviving.
“I know your mother is still recovering,” he added softly. “And your brother is nearing college age.”
Elena’s voice trembled. “Sir, that’s personal. You don’t have to—”
“I do,” he said.
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