Stella could sense when Weston’s demeanor softened. Though he didn’t answer her directly, it was clear that he had silently agreed to her request. Perhaps he was just waiting for her to take more initiative. As the night stretched on, Stella’s eyes fluttered with subtle thought, her gaze shifting toward the darkness. The steady rhythm of Weston’s breathing filled the silence. Turning around, she faced away from him and, feeling the weight of her exhaustion, closed her eyes, letting sleep gradually take over.
The next morning was calm. Over breakfast, Stella tentatively asked, “Can I go see Roger at school today?” She held a glass of milk, sipping it slowly as she watched Weston. He didn’t immediately reply, only placing his knife down and glancing at her glass. Stella understood instantly and finished her milk, wiping her mouth and, with a playful milk mustache, asked again, “Can I?”
Weston walked over, lifted her gently, and placed her on his lap. He wiped the milk from her lips with his thumb. Stella relaxed in his arms, allowing him to hold her however he wished, her gaze softening as she traced the line of his black hair and the curve of his finely shaped brows beneath his fringe. She let him feed her the rest of her breakfast, comfortable in the quiet intimacy they shared.
When she finished, Weston finally agreed to her request. “Yes, but come back early. I want to sleep with you tonight.” There was a brief pause before Stella nodded. “Okay.” Then, as if another thought had occurred to her, she tugged gently at his shirt and asked, “How can I convince him that I live outside because of work?”
Weston raised an eyebrow, surprised she would ask for help. He looked at her, amused by the rare moment of vulnerability. “When did you become so clever?” he teased.
Stella smiled, knowing his words would please him. He seemed in a good mood now and reached out to fix her tousled hair, his touch gentle. “I can help you find a way, but you have to come back tonight,” he added, his tone warm with promise.
Stella hesitated for a moment, but nodded in agreement. At least he was allowing her to see Roger—it was better than nothing. After breakfast, Weston went to work as usual, and his driver dropped her off.
Ford Corporation had relocated much of its operations to Fem City, and there was an ongoing discussion for a new project. With the company’s focus shifting here, Weston had plenty to occupy him. Joan, the housekeeper, continued with her duties, oblivious to their conversation.
As Stella entered the car, she couldn’t help but notice the professional demeanor of Weston’s staff. Even the drivers seemed to blend into the background, their presence barely noticeable, yet their efficiency was undeniable. Attempting to engage with the driver, she smiled and offered a greeting, but Weston immediately cupped her face and turned it back toward him. “Don’t try to get close to them. It’s useless. These are my people.”
Stella said nothing, knowing he had already read her mind. She hurriedly slid into the car and settled into her seat. Weston stood, watching as the car drove away, a small shake of his head indicating his amusement and a hint of powerlessness at her curiosity.
Later that day, after a long series of meetings, Weston glanced at his schedule and decided it was time to send for Stella. He sent his driver to pick her up, but just as he was about to leave, his secretary approached with an update. “Mr. Ford, Mr. Xavier has arrived.”
Xavier, Weston’s youngest uncle, was a man of a similar age, yet their personalities were worlds apart. While Weston was known for his cold, calculating demeanor, Xavier had always been a charmer, particularly around the women at the office. It was said that while Chris, Weston’s father, was Mr. Ford, the company now recognized Weston as the face of leadership. Over time, Weston’s title of Mr. Ford had become exclusively his, especially when his father wasn’t present.
Weston rubbed his temple in quiet frustration. “Bring him in.”
Moments later, a tall, elegant man walked into the office. Unlike Weston, Xavier was anything but reserved. As he passed, he flirted with the secretary, always receiving a warm welcome from the women around him. His charm was undeniable, and the air in the office seemed to shift with his arrival.
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