Chapter 6 Testing the Waters The next morning, Isla arrived at Whitmore Enterprises, her heels clicking against the marble floor as she made her way to the executive conference room. She had spent the night reviewing the project details, preparing herself for what was to come. This wasnt just about proving her worthit was about reclaiming her power. As she stepped inside, she was met with the sharp gazes of board members and senior executives. Nolan sat at the head of the table, his expression unreadable. Miss Turner, welcome back, one of the executives said, though the skepticism in his tone was hard to miss. Isla smiled coolly as she took her seat. Lets get to work, shall we? Nolan leaned forward, sliding a stack of documents toward her. Were finalizing the initial negotiations with our partners. Your expertise will be crucial in ensuring we dont lose ground. She picked up the papers, scanning the details. Then lets hope your team is ready to keep up. A murmur of surprise passed through the room, but Nolan merely smirked. Confidence. I like it. But actions speak louder than words, Isla. She met his gaze head-on. Then lets not waste time. For the next hour, Isla navigated through financials, projections, and strategies, asserting herself with sharp analysis and unwavering conviction. By the end of the meeting, she had silenced any doubts in the room. As the executives filed out, Nolan lingered. Impressive. You havent lost your edge. She gathered her notes, her tone measured. I never did. You just never bothered to see it. His expression darkened, but she didnt wait for a response. As she walked out of the room, one thing was certainthis was just the beginning. The sound of Islas heels echoed through the hallway as she left the conference room, her mind already racing with strategies. This project was more than just a career moveit was a statement. She wasnt just back in the game; she was here to win. She stepped into her temporary office, setting her folder down on the polished desk. The space was modern, minimalist, with large windows overlooking the city skyline. It was a reminder of everything she had once worked for, everything that had been taken from her. But she wasnt here to dwell on the past. She was here to forge a new path. A soft knock on the door pulled her from her thoughts. She turned to find Ava, her best friend and former colleague, leaning against the frame with a knowing smirk. So, how does it feel to be back? Ava asked, stepping inside. Isla exhaled, sinking into her chair. Like stepping onto a battlefield you thought youd never return to. Ava chuckled, dropping into the chair across from her. And Nolan? Islas jaw tightened. Predictable. Calculated. But hes not the only one who knows how to play this game. Ava nodded, her expression shifting to something more serious. Just be careful, Isla. Hes got an agenda. He always does. Isla leaned forward, resting her elbows on the desk. Thats why I need to stay ahead of him. If he thinks Im just going to follow orders, hes in for a rude awakening. Ava grinned. Thats my girl. Now, tell me about this project. For the next hour, Isla laid out the details, discussing the key players, potential risks, and opportunities. Ava listened intently, occasionally offering insight. It felt good to strategize with someone she trusted, someone who had her best interests at heart. As they wrapped up, Ava stood, stretching. Well, if anyone can pull this off, its you. Just dont let him get under your skin. He wont, Isla assured her. Not this time. Later that evening, Isla sat in her apartment, laptop open as she continued her research. She had spent the entire day analyzing the deal, identifying weak spots, and preparing counter-strategies. She knew Nolan well enough to anticipate his moves, but she needed to be ready for the unexpected. A sharp knock at her door made her pause. Frowning, she stood and walked over, peering through the peephole. Her heart skipped a beat. Taking a deep breath, she opened the door, keeping her expression neutral. What do you want? He held up two takeout containers and a bottle of wine. Thought you could use a break. She folded her arms. Since when do you care about my well-being? He smirked. Consider it a peace offering. She hesitated for a moment before stepping aside. But dont think this means I trust you. Wouldnt dream of it, he replied, stepping inside. They settled at her small dining table, the tension between them thick but unspoken. As they ate, they talkedabout work, about the project, but never about the past. It was an unspoken rule, a fragile truce neither was willing to break. After a while, Isla set down her fork, meeting his gaze. Lets get one thing straight, Nolan. Im here to do a job. Im not here to be manipulated, and Im not here to clean up your messes. He leaned back, studying her. She narrowed her eyes. Because if you try to pull any of your old tricks, youll regret it. A slow smirk tugged at his lips. You really have changed, havent you? She tilted her head. No, Nolan. I just finally see you for who you are. The silence stretched between them, charged and heavy. Finally, he stood, grabbing his coat. Get some rest, Isla. Tomorrows a big day. She watched as he walked to the door, pausing just before stepping out. For a moment, it looked like he wanted to say something else, but then he simply nodded and left. As the door clicked shut, Isla let out a slow breath. This was only the beginning, and she had no intention of letting her guard down. The real game had just begun. Five-year-old Annie, who can understand animals, saved Landon Hawthorne, a wealthy businessman, from suicide. Now she's his whole world and he's her legal cheat-code against every villain fate throws ...