Chapter 24

Anita’s Pov

I smiled, though it felt a little forced, and then, I confirmed what Damian had asked me earlier.

"Yes, it’s true," I added, though with an unsure look because I still haven't digested the actions of my mate.

If he was truly with or for me. If he would still come back to take me along with him.

Damian sighed, “It’s just that…” he began, then hesitated as if weighing whether to continue or not.

“Apart from work and his mate, the Alpha rarely shows interest in anyone else. But O think you’ve caught his attention, which isn’t something that happens often. And to be honest, I also think your presence could help him feel better, especially since he’s been in a bad mood lately.” he added.

Then his eyes flicked over to Alpha Hades, who was still standing a short distance away with an unreadable expression.

Damian then looked back at me with a softened gaze. “But since you’re married, it’s probably best if you keep your distance.”

The words hit me like a cold splash of water. I opened my mouth to respond, but the shock of the statement took me a moment to work through.

Did Damian really think that my marital status should dictate my ability to fulfill my role here?

And more importantly, did Alpha Hades feel the same way?

But abruptly, why would Damian say such a thing? Does he think I would came here to make Alpha Hades like me?

What the hell?

I straightened my back and gave him a determined look.

“With all due respect, Damian,” I said with a firm voice, “I am here to do a job. I will accompany Alpha Hades, help him with his work, and take care of his daily life as his assistant. But only within the scope of my job not adding anything else.”

I wasn’t sure what reaction I expected, but I caught a flicker of something in Alpha Hades’ eyes.

I don't know if it was a disappointed look that flashed on his face or what was it exactly?

But before I could properly examine him, his face returned back to it's normal look.

Then, he stepped forward, tapping the folder in his hand against his palm.

“During work hours,” he said, turning to Damian and then to me, “we shouldn’t be discussing personal matters.”

He handed the folder to Damian, who accepted it with a curt nod. “Make sure this is handled immediately.”

Damian took the folder and excused himself, leaving me alone with Alpha Hades. There was a thick silence between us, and I felt the weight of his gaze on me as I struggled to keep my composure.

There were so many things I wanted to ask, so much I didn’t understand about him and his mate, about what my role truly meant but I knew I was toeing a delicate line.

And this is the perfect time to throw all those questions at him and get my answers probably.

I just can't hold back this question that had been eating at me since my conversation with Kira any longer.

“Alpha Hades,” I began cautiously, meeting his gaze, “if Luna is upset with me, I’ll stay away from you. I don’t want to cause any trouble, especially not between you and your mate.”

The moment the words left my mouth, I saw the change in his expression. His smile vanished, replaced by a look that was impossible to read. His eyes darkened slightly, and for a moment, I feared I had crossed a line.

“You shouldn’t concern yourself with my mate,” he said quietly, his voice carrying a note of finality that left no room for further questioning. “It’s not your place to worry about our relationship.”

I nodded immediately, not that I was satisfied though. I still need more answers.

 “I just wanted to make sure I’m not overstepping,” I replied softly. But inside, I couldn’t help but wonder what his relationship with his mate was like. Why did he avoid talking about her?

Was there more to their story than I realized?

Before I could dwell on it any longer, Alpha Hades took a step back with a slightly softened expression.

“You’ve been through a lot today,” he said gently. “I think it would be best if you took a half-day off. Get some rest and clear your head before coming back tomorrow.”

I blinked my eyes as I was shocked and surprised by the sudden offer. “That’s not necessary,” I protested quickly. “My old injuries won’t affect my work. I’m fine.” i said firmly.

He shook his head, cutting me off before I could say more. “It’s on me,” he insisted. “Take a paid break, Anita. I want you at your best, and that means taking care of yourself.”

I couldn't bring myself to believe what Alpha Hades just said. A paid break?

How? When did I start working for him to be able to receive this kind of offer from him?

Thie was so surreal. It wasn't making sense to me.

I still wanted to say something but there was a firmness in his tone and eyes that told me arguing would be pointless.

The last of my resistance crumbled into fine dust as I clipped my mouth shut then nodded in agreement to his words.

Although a part of me still felt uneasy about leaving my work unfinished. But anyway, this was an instruction from my boss.

What more can I say to change his mind?

“Thank you, Alpha Hades,” I murmured, feeling a mix of gratitude and yet confusion. “I appreciate it.”  

He offered a small nod in return, then gestured toward the door. “Go on, get some rest. I’ll see you tomorrow.”