Sophia stared at the screen for a long moment. Her hand trembled slightly as she set the phone down.
*What do I do now?*
The rational part of her screamed to be cautious. He was her superior, and their relationship would never be the same if she said yes. It could jeopardize everything she had worked for. And yet... the pull was undeniable.
With a deep breath, she made a decision. She would meet him. She would take this risk.
But she needed to set the terms. She needed to maintain control, to make sure she didn't lose herself in this whirlwind.
A plan began to form in her mind. And, for the first time since their conversation, Sophia allowed herself a small smile.
She wasn't going to let Ethan Carter get away with everything he wanted. Not without some strings attached.
Later that evening, as the office emptied and the world outside grew quiet, Sophia made her way to Ethan's private office, determined to face him on her own terms. She knocked softly, and the door opened almost instantly.
Ethan stood there, his gaze sharp, waiting for her. The moment stretched out between them, charged with unspoken tension.
"Come in," he said, his voice low, inviting.
Sophia stepped inside, her heart racing, but this time it was a different kind of anticipation.
"I've thought about it," she said, her voice steady, despite the storm brewing inside her. "And I'm willing to give this a chance. On one condition."