Chapter 65

"What?" Jolene and I exclaimed at the same time. Her voice was sharp and full of disbelief while mine was more stunned and distressed. I had never agreed to such arrangements. "When is this taking place? Mr. Hastings, a business gala is a significant event. How can you just casually bring a new hire to accompany you?" Jolene screeched. Alex was clearly irritated by Jolene's questions. He looked up, his expression hardening. "Do I need to report my decisions to you?" Jolene's sharp voice faltered immediately, and she turned to look at me in disbelief. I quickly lowered my gaze. "Leave," Alex said curtly, dismissing her. I raised my head, startled. What was this man's problem? One moment, he was dropping bombshells, and the next, he was kicking people out without clarifying anything. But I was in no position to argue. Reluctantly, I followed Jolene toward the door. "I didn't tell you to leave," Alex's voice rang out again, displeased. Both Jolene and I stopped in our tracks, tu