22 Chapter 22 – Security Measures and Evening Plans
“What can I say? I’ve developed quite the craving for chocolate cake lately,” Liam responded with a wicked grin that made my checks flame with embarrassment. “Dear God, you two are dancing around each other like idiots!” Damian threw his hands up in exasperation. “But Hazel, I was just explaining to your brooding boss here that I’ve secured reservations for tonight’s dinner. No backing out this time we’re treating two incredible women to an evening at Saffron. It’s Evelyn’s absolute favorite spot, and you’re going to adore it. Though I have no clue why Hazel thinks you’d object to her joining us, Liam.”
“What is your obsession with chocolate cake today, you pretty boy? I spotted the empty plate on your desk this morning, watched you devour another slice during the video conference, and now you’re already planning dessert for tonight? Keep this up and you’ll lose that perfect physique,” Damian teased mercilessly.
“Since we became friends, you possessive bastard. And quit acting like such a territorial boss!”
“Maybe not territorial, but definitely possessive,” he murmured with that infuriating smirk that made my pulse race. Why did he have to look like a Greek god while saying things like that?
“Hazel, sweetheart, are you holding up okay? Clairemont has always been revolting, but this crosses every line, Liam.” Evelyn’s voice vibrated with barely contained fury. Their ridiculous argument actually made me laugh, which seemed to be exactly what they intended. Liam rose from his chair and tilted my chin upward, forcing me to meet. his intense gaze.
“Breathe, Hazel. Clairemont can’t touch you now. I won’t let you lose your position because
of that pathetic excuse for a man.” Liam’s voice carried an edge of steel beneath its gentleness as his hand moved in soothing circles across my back. Chapter 22 – Security Measures and Evening Plans
“He’s absolutely right, Hazel. Clairemont is nothing but a waste of tougher than he’ll ever be, so don’t give him the satisfaction of seeing you rattled,”
space. You’re Damian added, his usual playful demeanor replaced by genuine concern.
23.10
22 Chapter 22 Security Measures and Evening Plans
“Understood, sir. Implementation begins immediately, came the crisp response.
“Bianca, effective immediately, I want this entire floor secured. I’m finished with people barging into my office uninvited, and neither you nor Hazel should endure these toxic encounters. Liam grabbed his phone and activated the speaker function. “Mitchell, implement a security protocol for executive floor access. Bianca will provide you with authorized personnel names. Create elevator access codes for Damian, Owen, Hazel. Evelyn, Bianca, and myself exclusively. All other employees require Bianca’s explicit approval, and anyone else needs direct authorization from a code holder. The elevator should only reach this floor with proper credentials. Lock the emergency stairwell door from our side as well. Schedule a company meeting to announce these new security measures.”
Damian pressed a glass of water into my shaking hands. The cool liquid did nothing to stop the tremors running through my body. I didn’t even notice the tears streaming down my cheeks until Liam’s thumb gently brushed them away.
“Disrespect doesn’t begin to cover it! He’s vicious, degrading, abusive, and completely without boundaries. He’s a monster, Liam. I understand your reasons for keeping him employed, but everyone forced to deal with him is reaching their breaking point,” Evelyn shot back, her anger palpable.
“Evelyn, I guarantee this won’t happen again. But tell me, does Clairemont treat other staff members with the same disrespect?” Liam’s question carried a dangerous undertone.
“Does everyone understand the new system? This should eliminate the more aggressive troublemakers. Bianca, you’re dismissed. Thank you for your assistance.” Liam disconnected and surveyed our group with satisfaction.
After Bianca departed, Damian enthusiastically described the dinner plans to Evelyn. We spent the next several minutes talking and laughing as Damian dramatically recounted how Liam had transformed into my knight in shining armor. His storytelling skills were absolutely hilarious.
Hazel’s POV
A sharp knock interrupted our conversation, and Evelyn swept in with Bianca trailing behind her.
22 Chapter 22–Security Monsures and Evening Plans
“Object? I’m looking forward to having Hazel there tonight more than you know, Liam replied, his voice dropping to that husky tone that sent heat racing through my veins. The way he said my nickname felt like a caress. “Besides, they serve the most decadent chocolate cake in the city, Hazel.”
“Since when did assistant without
you decide you could use pet names for i permission?”
“I’m managing, Evelyn, but thank you for caring. It was disgusting and completely blindsided me, but I’ll survive it,” I answered, squeezing her offered hand gratefully.
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