THIRTY-ONE

KIERA’S POV

As I followed Linda to the kitchen, I marveled at the space. It was too luxurious for an office—marble countertops, sleek stainless steel appliances, and an air filled with the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee. But the atmosphere felt tense, like a storm waiting to break.

Linda glanced at me, a smug smirk playing on her lips.

“You sure you can handle making coffee? It requires a level of skill I’m not sure you possess,” she said, sarcasm dripping from her voice.

I forced a smile, choosing to ignore the jab, “I appreciate your concern, but I think I’ll manage.”

Linda leaned closer, lowering her voice as if sharing a scandalous secret. “Just remember, this isn’t your playground. You’re stepping into a world of real professionals.”

My jaw tightened, but I maintained my composure, “Funny, you’d think a ‘real professional’ would encourage teamwork rather than throwing shade.”

Linda’s eyes narrowed, “You think you can just waltz in here because you’re Gabriel’s what? His pet?