Chapter 152

Madison

I took a deep breath and pulled up the meeting agenda, determined to be over-prepared. If they were going to judge me, I’d at least give them something substantial to judge.

The distinctive ding of the elevator caught my attention, and I glanced up to see Alexander stepping out. He walked with that confident stride that seemed to part the air around him, heading toward his office. My heart did that stupid little jump it always did when I saw him unexpectedly.

He slowed as he approached my desk, his eyes catching something on the floor. Before I could react, he bent down and picked up a folded piece of paper that had fallen beside my trash can.

“Playing schoolyard games with notes, Ms. Harper?” he asked with an amused smile, already unfolding it.

“Wait, Mr. Knight, don’t—” I started, but it was too late.

His expression hardened as he read the note. I couldn’t see what it said, but from the way his jaw clenched, I knew it was worse th