Clairessa’s POV

Chapter 20:1 Refuse To Be Broken

*I was deep into my work when a familiar, stern voice pulled me from my thoughts.

“What are you still doing here?”

* 70%

I nearly lost my balance in my seat from the shock of seeing him in my office. I never expected him to check in on me–twice in one day. Did that mean he was interested in me? It was unlike the CEO to walk into someone’s office more than once, let alone just to check on them.

A soft smile crossed my lips as my eyes shamelessly roamed over his broad, muscular frame. He looked effortlessly handsome in his tailored gray suit pants and crisp white shirt, the top two buttons undone, giving a teasing glimpse of his toned chest. The fabric clung to every inch of his body making it nearly impossible to look away.

“Clairessa? Clairessa?”

I was so lost staring at him, I hadn’t even noticed he was calling my name. Heat rose to my cheeks as I realized,

“Mr. Storm…” I finally managed to stammer, feeling slightly embarrassed that I’d been caught staring.

“Clairessa, you seem distracted with something else… he snapped, his gaze focused on me. When I’m standing right in front of you.”

“I’m not distracted, sir… I’m just… tired,” I lied, faking a yawn.

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Chapter 20:1 Refuse To Be Broken

“Then why are you still working this late? It’s past 9pm and I’m certain most of the staff have gone home. His eyes briefly scanned the office corridor. It looks like you’re the only one left.”

“Well, Mr. Storm,” I said, rising from my seat. “My boss gave me this massive workload that I have to finish by the end of the day if I want to avoid his wrath…” My tone was sarcastic,

“Don’t play with me, Clairessa,” he warned, his eyes narrowing.

“If only I could…” I mumbled before I could stop myself, realizing I’d let my thoughts slip out.

with you?” he asked, his frustration evident. I knew I had to be

assigned to me,

things. We’re

not done with the task. It will still take me some time.”

at home. We’re leaving now,”

words faltered when I saw his face harden. It was clear he

ordered as he

rolled my eyes at his display of arrogance. Why was I attracted to his stoic personality? I should hate him for the way he treats me, but I didn’t. Instead, I wanted him. This was beginning to feel like

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Refuse To Be

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his car, though there was a considerable distance between us. He felt so close, yet so far. I

more of the tender man I’d seen at the hotel, but that part of him seemed completely gone. Throughout the drive, his eyes were fixed on his iPad. It was clear he was still working. I wondered how much of a workaholic he

Storm,” I said softly, breaking the subtle tension in

he replied, not even looking

I ask you something,

know you’re going to,” he

snarky remark and asked my question. “Why don’t you want to talk about that night? Didn’t it

smirk tugged at the corner of his lips. “Why should it?” he replied

screen.

said, my tone irritated. “I guess kissing random drunk women at clubs is your thing.

to face me, his gaze intense as

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20:1 Refuse To Be

His voice was low, harsh. “I could say the same about you. Do you go to the club begging random men to sleep with you? What does that say about you?” His

were cold and belittling, shaking me to my core. Was he really insinuating that I was a… I couldn’t even

you cheaply threw yourself

my request. In fact, you were eager–more than eager–to kiss and touch every inch of my skin. Don’t you dare try to shame

furrowed, his expression darkening.

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