Imprisoned While Pregnant, She's Back for Payback novel Chapter 544

**Keepsake 544**
**Chapter 544: Asking a Favor**

Steven’s voice was laced with irritation, a clear indication that he was losing his patience.

“But…”

Jolie’s expression was a mixture of conflict and hesitation. She yearned to voice her thoughts, to defend herself, but Steven’s demeanor was unyielding, cutting her off before she could gather her words.

“If you feel the need to overstep your boundaries, then perhaps you’re not suited to remain in my lab or to continue as my assistant. Once I complete this project, I will discuss your reassignment with the dean, and I’ll ensure you find a place that’s more appropriate for your skills.”

His countenance was stern, leaving no space for debate or negotiation.

Jolie’s complexion drained of color, her heart racing as she lowered her gaze, her voice quaking with emotion. “Please don’t do that, Mr. Stone. I was only concerned about your health. I promise I won’t interfere again. Just let me stay.”

Her words dwindled to a whisper, almost inaudible, akin to the faint buzz of a mosquito, as if she felt utterly wronged and misunderstood.

Steven flicked his gaze toward her momentarily, his expression unyielding. “You can head home early today. Return to the staff dorm and take some time to rest.”

He then shifted his attention to Tess, his tone softening slightly. “What are you lingering there for? Come inside.”

With that, he swung the office door wide open, silently beckoning her to enter.

At this point, Tess had little choice but to comply. She stepped into the room, followed closely by Raven and Lyra. Raven, with a deliberate slowness, allowed Lyra to pass her, casting a smirk at the crestfallen Jolie standing by the door.

Jolie’s jaw tightened, her teeth grinding together, but she held back any reaction, knowing better than to confront them.

Once the door clicked shut behind them, her expression morphed into one of bitter jealousy.

I was only looking out for him! Why does he treat me this way, all because of that woman?

Jolie’s frustration boiled over as she bit down so hard on her teeth that she feared they might shatter, directing all her ire toward Tess.

With a frustrated stomp of her foot, she fled the scene, leaving behind the tension that had filled the air.

Inside the office, Tess felt a slight twitch in her eyelid, a subtle sign of her own unease.

She instinctively rubbed at it, and in that moment, Steven was already offering her a steaming cup of tea. “What’s the matter? Are you feeling unwell?”

Tess shook her head, attempting to dismiss his concern. “Perhaps I’ve been juggling too much lately and haven’t taken the time to rest. I’m feeling a bit flustered.”

He nodded, a thoughtful expression crossing his features. “You really should prioritize some rest.”

As she took a sip of the warm tea, its soothing warmth enveloped her, easing her tension and smoothing the lines of worry on her face. “You’re telling me to rest? Your assistant mentioned you’ve been burning the candle at both ends for the past few days, and it seems like it’s because of me?”

Her words emerged hesitantly, a hint of awkwardness coloring her tone.

“Don’t pay any mind to her nonsense. She’s just looking for attention,” Steven replied, waving his hand dismissively, his striking gaze settling on Tess with an intensity that made her heart race.

Though his tone was light and teasing, there was a sincerity in his eyes as he regarded her.

It had been just over a month since they first met, yet Tess had blossomed into someone entirely different.

In their initial encounters, she had been shrouded in the grief of losing her lawyer’s license. Now, she stood as the CEO of a company on the brink of going public, radiating an aura of strength and authority that was hard to ignore.

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