Monica's POV
Darren pressed a cool glass of water into my hands, which trembled slightly as I accepted it. Morris reached out, his fingertips brushing against my cheeks, collecting tears I hadn't even noticed were falling.
"Take a breath, Monica. That man has no authority over you. Don't worry about your position here—Eddie can't touch it," Morris murmured, his hand making soothing circles against my back.
"He's right, Monica. Eddie is nothing but a blowhard. Don't let him get under your skin. You're tougher than that," Darren added with genuine concern in his voice.
Morris's posture stiffened slightly. "Since when are you on nickname terms with my assistant?"
"Since we became friends," Darren shot back with easy confidence. "And maybe try not being such a tyrant yourself!"
I couldn't help but laugh at their exchange, which seemed to please Morris. He rose from his crouched position and gently tilted my chin upward, forcing me to meet his gaze.
