CHAPTER 43 A SHIFT IN DYNAMICS

Claire’s eyes widened in surprise, the color draining from her cheeks. She had been unaware that Ethan appreciated the extent of her involvement in the process that much. Ethan went on, his voice growing more passionate. “She worked tirelessly, putting in countless hours without any expectation of recognition or compensation. She did it because she believed in the company, in our vision, in our mission.” The crowd, their eyes fixed on her, gave a hearty round of applause, their expressions a mixture of awe and respect. Madeline, her eyes narrowed, clenched her teeth, trying in vain to hide her jealousy. Ethan’s gaze never wavered from her, a smile playing at the corners of his mouth. Ethan, his eyes still locked with Claire’s, went on with his confession. “I also discovered that Claire was a diamond in the rough,” he said, his voice growing more impassioned with each word. “She was overqualified for her position as my personal assistant.” Claire’s breath caught in her chest, her h