Damon’s POV

She was meant to be gone by now.

I had previously asked her to leave, even commanding her to do so. I remember standing there as the gates opened, each word I said feeling heavy in my chest like a blade. Yet now, seeing her back in my office, silent but strong, it suddenly felt like the very air around us had shifted against me.

“Starting tomorrow, you'll be working directly under me.” I said this calmly, even though it meant giving up everything for it.

Her brows furrowed. ...