Valerie's POV
A few days later, the atmosphere at Rhys Tech changed, at least for me.
Daniel Carter started coming by more often.
Logically, it made sense. The smart car project required intensive coordination. But his presence no longer felt purely professional.
Daniel often stood too close.
His gaze lingered longer than it should.
And the way he smiled, warm, gentle felt… too personal for a workplace.
"This document has been revised," he said one morning, standing beside my desk. He didn't sit. He didn't step away. He just stood there.
I nodded. "I'll send it to the procurement team this afternoon. Carlos was supposed to deliver this, you know?"
Daniel didn't leave right away. He smiled, but didn't answer.
"Have you eaten?" he asked casually.
I let out a small sigh. "Not yet."
"Lunch together?" His tone was light.
I lifted my head. "Daniel, this is the office."
"I know," he said quickly. "That's why I'm asking."
