Aria's POV
I slid into my desk chair at Westin Industries' sleek open-plan office, the hum of printers and low chatter greeting me like an old song. My laptop blinked to life. After weeks of hospital visits and sleepless nights, I was back at work—determined to prove I still belonged here.
"Good morning, Aria." Maya Lin's voice floated over from her station two rows down. She offered me a tight smile. "How are you feeling?"
I ran a hand over my hair, trying to settle nerves. "Better, thanks to Dr. Moore and you." I forced a grin. "Ready to tackle the day."
She gave me a thumbs-up. "That's the spirit."
I opened my inbox. Amid PR updates and budget memos, one subject line stood out: "Your presence requested: CEO's office." The email was from Tessa Rowe and uncharacteristically crisp. My heart skipped.
After last night's gala chaos—I hadn't anticipated more duty calls. Yet here it was: Damon wanted me urgently.
"Aria?" Maya's expression softened. "Everything okay?"
