“This time, Mr. Olson is facing charges of embezzlement and misappropriation of company funds. Thirty million dollars isn’t a small sum—it’s more than enough to constitute a criminal offense. Depending on the severity, he’s looking at a minimum of three years in prison, possibly more. Mr. Olson, there’s no need for apologies now. Let’s just follow procedure,” Rebecca said calmly, her tone even and resolute.
Lionel froze, clearly unprepared for such bluntness from a secretary. She didn’t spare him the slightest scrap of dignity.
Women could be ruthless—especially beautiful ones.
He gritted his teeth, but deep down he wasn’t scared at all. He had his own plans. Soon enough, he’d put her in her place.
Let’s see how well she sticks to her precious procedures then.
Lionel’s eyes flickered with malice. “You’re right, Miss Raina. Since you insist on being impartial, we’ll do it your way. Still, if I go to prison, I might never see you again. How about you share one last drink with me, for old times’ sake?”
Rebecca had no desire to drink—certainly not with Lionel—but since he remained standing, she had little choice. She picked up her glass.
“Lionel, I accept your apology. I hope you’ll never make such a mistake again. Use your time to turn over a new leaf.”
She lifted the glass to her lips, pretending to drink, but not actually taking a sip.
Lionel, convinced she had drunk, finally relaxed. He tossed back his own drink in one gulp and sat down.
“Don’t worry, Miss Raina. I promise to change for the better.”
Dylan was quietly pleased with how Raina handled things. Bringing her along had been the right call.
Despite the lingering tension in the private room, the conversation continued amicably. The Olson Group had made considerable reparations for their missteps, demonstrating genuine contrition.
The only one not at ease was Lionel, who was anxiously watching for the drug he’d slipped into Rebecca’s drink to take effect.
But as the minutes ticked by with no sign of change, he grew impatient.
Finally, opportunity knocked.
Midway through, Rebecca, feeling stifled, excused herself to get some air.
Lionel saw her leave and followed.
Rebecca made her way to the restroom. After washing her hands, she suddenly heard footsteps behind her.

VERIFYCAPTCHA_LABEL
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: The Contract Said No Strings Attached (Charlotte)