He just kept a polite smile plastered on his face, offering the usual pleasantries.
Dominic slid the folder into his desk drawer, his tone calm as he spoke.
"I heard your wife is due in a month. I'll have her take over the Cloudcrest City project. You should take this time to rest and be with your wife."
The project manager's smile widened with gratitude, his eyes shining.
"Thank you, Mr. Holloway, I really—"
Dominic cut him off gently. "No need for the formalities. Go back to your post. You've worked hard these past years."
The project manager thanked him repeatedly, then stood and left Dominic's office.
As soon as he stepped out, the forced smile faded from his face.
Staying in the Capital for his wife's delivery was a blessing, but it was hard not to feel threatened by the person behind that stunning proposal—Dominic's clear show of favor could easily shift the balance of power.
When Cynthia returned to the Capital, she didn't let Jocelyn know.
Her sister had already started sending out invitations to old family friends for a welcome-back reception at the Old Tremaine Estate in two days.
As Cynthia exited Holloway Tower, her phone buzzed—Jocelyn calling.
"Cynthia, I thought we were inseparable! You come back to the Capital and don't even tell me?"
Cynthia laughed. "Weren't you just relaxing in Emberfell the other day? I didn't want to interrupt your vacation."
Jocelyn gave a playful huff. "Well, I land in the Capital at eight tonight. Viola Chalfont's hosting a get-together at Halcyon Hall, and you're coming with me. Viola's been dying to see you—it's been ages."
Cynthia hesitated, pressing her lips together.
Jocelyn coaxed, "It's just old classmates tonight, no outsiders."
After a pause, Cynthia agreed. "Alright."
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