Emily was reviewing files at her desk when the office suddenly shifted.
Laughter. Soft, confident.
She looked up.
A blonde woman walked in beside Ethan.
Tall heels. Perfect posture. A calm smile that made people straighten instinctively.
"That's Amanda Reynolds," someone whispered nearby.
"Senior consultant. Brilliant. She's worked with Mr. Miller for years."
Amanda leaned slightly toward Ethan, speaking in a low voice. He listened. Actually listened.
Something tightened in Emily's chest.
Amanda noticed her gaze and smiled warmly. Not fake. Not forced.
"You must be Emily," she said, walking over. "Welcome to the team. I've heard great things."
Emily blinked, caught off guard.
"Thank you. It's nice to meet you."
Amanda's handshake was firm, confident.
"If you need anything, don't hesitate," she added kindly.
Then she turned back to Ethan.
"We still have lunch at twelve," she reminded him.
He nodded. "I'll be there."
Lunch.
Together.
Emily looked back at her screen, but the words blurred.
Amanda was everything Emily wasn't trying to be—polished, admired, untouchable.
And the worst part?
She was impossible to hate.