Chapter 78

"I…" My words got stuck in my throat, and my cheeks flushed red. What was I even thinking? Alex only promoted me to deal with Mr. Hastings Senior. Did I seriously think he'd go out of his way to open up an assistant position just for me? I felt ashamed for my audacity. "Second question." I took a deep breath. "That necklace… is clearly not a custom design from the company. It must be your mother's keepsake. So… why did you let me wear it?" My voice was tentative and soft as I tested the waters. The real issue wasn't why he gave me the necklace but the story behind it. Alex didn't deny what Jolene had said, which meant her claim was probably true. That necklace was meant for the future Mrs. Hastings. I wasn't sure what kind of answer I wanted to hear. But after asking, I felt a wave of nervousness and unease wash over me. I was afraid of the truth—afraid that it might confirm my thoughts yet also terrified it might not. Alex stayed silent for a long time before speaking. He began