Chapter 18: Under His Gaze.

Willow Goods.

Matilda’s POV.

“Right, Matilda. You can do this,” I mutter under my breath, a firm pep talk echoing in the stillness of the elevator. “You’re a powerful, brilliant, and beautiful woman who’s been steering her own ship through life’s choppy seas for ages. Some spoiled boss isn’t about to capsize you. Not now, not ever.”

The elevator doors glide open, and I’m greeted by the cold quiet of the office floor. A chill of foreboding nudges at me, but I refuse to let it stick. “Last week, you had your fun, Mr. Willow,” I say, barely concealing my smirk as if he can actually hear me. “But this week? Victory is mine.” I stride towards the office door, shoulders squared.

Today, I’m no pushover.

I push open the door with newfound resolve. “Good morning, Javier!” I say brightly, dropping my things onto the desk with a flourish. “Did you have a great weekend or what?”

Javier blinks at me, his copper eyes wide, surprise written all over his face. “Um… Matilda?”

“Yes, Javier?” I ask, a