CHAPTER FORTY-THREE - THE TANGLED WEB

    As she was heading back to her desk, she quite literally ran into Leon Allistair. "Mr. Allistair! I'm so sorry," Nia stammered, mortified. Leon steadied her with a hand on her arm, his touch sending an unwelcome thrill through her. "No harm done, Nia. You seem to be in quite a rush today." Nia laughed nervously. "Just trying to keep up with Madame Rosseau's demands. The gala preparation is... intense." Leon's eyes crinkled with amusement. "Ah, yes. Rosseau can be quite the taskmaster. But from what I hear, you're handling her admirably." "Thank you, sir," Nia said, trying to ignore the way her heart was racing. "I'm doing my best." "Indeed you are," Leon said, his gaze warm. "In fact, I was hoping to discuss something with you. Do you have a moment?" Nia glanced at her watch. It was 11:55. Her mother would be waiting at the park soon. But how could she refuse her boss? "Of course, Mr. Allistair," she heard herself say. As Leon led her towards his office, Nia felt a mix o