Elena's POV
The knock came sooner than I expected.
I straightened the papers on my desk for the third time, aligning their edges with unnecessary precision. The Aaron Wells files lay open in front of me, though I didn't need them. I already had my own copy. The truth was, the files were only an excuse. The only reasonable one I could find to call her up here without raising questions.
I wanted to see her.
Nothing more. Nothing less.
As the knock came again, firmer this time, I slid the file beneath the desk, hiding it from view, as if concealing evidence rather than paperwork. I smoothed the hem of my suit jacket, adjusted the line of my sleeves, and settled my expression into calm professionalism before lifting my gaze toward the door.
"Come in," I said.
My voice sounded steady. Composed.
Exactly how it should.
The door opened, slow and careful.
