Against all odds: crowned by fate

. The space was immaculate, a perfect blend of modern efficiency and creative chaos. Massive tables were covered in materia

he energy in the room was electric, but Harper kept her focus sharp. This wasn't just about proving herself- it

nspecting every detail. Silk, chiffon, tailored wo

in his usual business suit. Instead, he wore a crisp white dress shirt with

studio before landing on

ing her tone professional. "We

is presence commanding attention w

s drift. "Full approval on the specialty fabrics. So

ake car

balance, but she wasn't about to complain.

pproached with a hesitant smile. "Miss Quinn, I have t

running her fingers over the fabric. The det

aid, genuine approval in

ced nervously at Holden

ow. "Does everyone her

r to think of it as main

" she countered,

in his chest. "You nev

aid simply.

hem, heavy and unresolved. Silence stretched

the approv

at a little too fast. Holden strode back to his office, jaw tight. Harper was handling this project with the same sh

ed was the way she st

him before he could reach his de

she does,"

ound Vivian Mercer seated behind his father's old d

rovals through me," she said, her vo

doorframe, arms crossed.

lways were stubborn. But letting personal history

't about

harpened.

temper. "Harper is the best choice fo

rd can b

s jaw. "What exactly

inst the polished wood. "That you should tread carefully. H

handl

ent before standing gracefully. "

nother word, but h

hts flickered through the windows, casting a soft glow over her apartment. Tossing

Still the same powerful presence, still impossibly composed, but there had been moments-fleeting ones-wher

, pulling her fr

haven't fallen i

eyes, typing bac

'm fine.

d on the screen,

r, another t

work? Or

she didn't reply. She didn