Lila's POV

The moment I stepped into Sterling Group’s reception area the next day, Monday morning, the atmosphere shifted. I could feel the weight of dozens of eyes on me—some pretending not to look, others not even bothering to hide their interest. There were so many whispers.

I didn’t need to hear everything to know what was being said.

“No wonder she got the job.”

“Bet she’s sleeping with him.”

My fingers curled around the handle of my handbag a little tighter. I was ...