Chapter 17

Jason’s POV

The office was quiet, with only the soft hum of the air conditioning filling the silence. I leaned back in my chair, absently drumming my fingers on the polished desk, when Frederick walked in, his expression calm and composed as usual. He held a document—a signed contract, the one Elena had finally approved.

“Boss, she signed it. You just need to validate it with your signature,” Frederick said, placing the papers on my desk. His eyes lingered a moment, curious yet professional.

I glanced down at the contract, feeling a strange mix of satisfaction and guilt. I had pushed Elena toward this, and now that it was real, a weight settled in my chest.

“Thank you, Frederick,” I replied, picking up the pen, but before he could leave, something made me stop him.

“Fred...,” I hesitated, clearing my throat, feeling a rare moment of vulnerability. “Have you ever been in a relationship?” I asked, trying to sound casual.

Frederick’s brow lift