CHAPTER 50 WHEN ANGER FLARES

Claire’s expression shifted from concern to alarm as Ethan’s face hardened, his eyes narrowing into slits. “You think you know me?” he growled, his voice low and menacing. “Just because you had an opportunity to kiss me doesn’t give you the right to lecture me. You’re my employee, nothing more. And if you step out of line again, I’ll make sure you regret it.” He turned and stalked away, leaving Claire standing alone, her heart racing. She’d never seen Ethan like this before, so filled with rage and pain. For the next few days, the tension in the office was palpable. Ethan avoided Claire, not even acknowledging her presence when they passed in the hallway. He was cold and distant, his demeanor a stark contrast to the man she’d known and cared for. Claire tried to tell herself that he was just grieving, that he was lashing out in his pain. But deep down, she couldn’t help but feel responsible for his suffering. One morning, she arrived at work to find Ethan’s assistant waiting for h