Chapter 10

I gradually emerged from that shadow.

My soul learned to smile again after enduring pain.

Come to think of it, hadn't I already started getting used to life without Mom when she married William Lowell?

Was I overthinking, or was Ethan Lowell spending more and more time away recently?

Business trips had become routine for him.

I couldn't help but panic.

Had Ethan found a better replacement?

I was bored at work, wondering when Ethan would return from his business trip.

If the mountain won't come to me, I'll go to the mountain.

Given our current situation, he wasn't really my brother anymore.

"Victoria, the boss wants to see you." A colleague interrupted my thoughts.

I nodded and walked toward the boss's office.

Inside, the boss narrowed his eyes and scanned my impressive chest and full hips.

"Victoria, close the door."

I felt puzzled but obediently closed it.

The boss was tall and burly with a crew cut.

He was known for his harsh criticism.

Facing him directly made me uneasy.

Seeing me standing still, he stood up and pressed me into a chair.

"Relax, it's nothing serious." He patted my shoulder.

His large hand casually rubbed my back.

I felt scared and subtly shifted backward, trying to create distance.

He smiled faintly and pulled me into his embrace.

"Be good, I've been dreaming about these white rabbits for a long time."

I struggled but fell into his arms.

Trembling, I tried to stand up, but couldn't break free from his iron-like grip.

I knew showing fear would only provoke his animal instincts.

I kept my voice steady. "Boss, what are you trying to do?"

He ignored my question and lightly slapped my hip.

"Don't call me boss. I'm not much older than you. Call me Ryan."

I pressed my lips together, unsure how to respond.

He didn't seem to care.

"I heard your mother recently passed away. It must be tough for a young girl alone."

"This job is quite desirable out there."

He was threatening me!

It was true. With Mom gone, I was alone...

Wait, I still had Ethan. I wasn't alone!

But Ethan couldn't support me.

Without Mom as connection, what were we?

Probably just friends.

I regretted my carelessness.

I'd heard rumors about this boss's inappropriate behavior.

Yet I walked right into his office.

This was like a lamb entering a tiger's den!

I wanted to cry but had no tears.

Ethan, please come save me.

Seeing my resistance weaken, the boss smiled happily.

"That's more like it. People need to be sensible."

But if I compromised, would Ethan still want me?

The answer was clear. Definitely not!

An idea came to mind.