Lila's POV

My heart didn’t just skip a beat; it sprinted into full panic mode. His gaze slid from my hand, which was still awkwardly clutching the doorknob, to my face, and then back again. His expression was unreadable, like a mask perfectly molded to give nothing away.

He ended the call with a swift press of his thumb.

“Miss Hart,” he said coolly. “Was there something you needed in my office?”

My smile came instantly, as did the lie.

“I’m so sorry, Mr. Sterling,” I ...