Chapter 71

This time, Jolene shoved me harder than before. I stumbled backward, my balance tipping dangerously. I braced myself for a fall, only to collide with a solid chest. Turning my head, I froze. It was Alex. Of all times, he had to walk into the office right now. The moment Alex's dark, stormy gaze swept over the scene, my heart dropped. "Mr. Hastings!" The previously noisy office became so quiet you could hear a pin drop. Everyone avoided eye contact, suddenly engrossed in their work. Only a few colleagues greeted him quietly. I could feel my pulse hammering as I quickly stepped away from Alex, my stomach churning with dread. "Are you incapable of standing up for yourself?" Alex asked sharply, his brows knitted in irritation. "She pushes you, and you just stand there?" "I…" My voice faltered as I glanced at Alex, guilt and embarrassment swirling inside me. "I… didn't react fast enough." Alex's eyes swept over me, his expression unreadable. He took a single, deliberate step forwa