CHAPTER 46 HEARTSTRINGS AND HARD CHOICES

“Come in,” she called, her voice steady and professional. The door opened, and a young woman entered the room, a stack of files in her arms. “Hi,” the woman said, a friendly smile on her face. “I’m Natalie, the admin assistant. Mr. Jacobson asked me to bring these over.” “Oh, thank you,” Claire said, rising from her desk to take the files. She couldn’t help but feel a twinge of disappointment that it wasn’t Ethan himself. Claire placed the files on her desk, her mind whirling. Why had Ethan sent Natalie instead of coming himself? Was he busy, or was he trying to maintain a professional distance? “Is there anything else I can do for you?” Natalie asked, her smile never wavering. “No, thank you. This is great,” Claire said, forcing a smile. “I appreciate the help.” “You’re welcome,” Natalie said, turning to leave. After Natalie left, Claire sat back down at her desk, but her mind was still on Ethan. She could feel the tension building inside her, the unanswered questions and unsp