Chapter 21 21 Chapter 21 - Fierce Protection Monica's POV The morning had been running smoothly as I coordinated the details of tomorrow's confidential financial report meeting with Jason. I sent Paula a quick text to confirm if the schedule worked. for her before returning to my other responsibilities. Roughly an hour into my work, my concentration was broken by the sound of my boss's office door being flung open. Before I could process what was happening, Morris was looming over his muscular arms positioned on each side of my chair, effectively caging me in. His face hovered inches from mine, his eyes intense with determination. mc, "Monica," he spoke, his voice deeper and more gravelly than usual, "listen to me very carefully. This matter between us will be resolved today. I won't accept any other outcome. Cancel whatever plans you have for tonight because when we leave this office, we're going to sit down like adults and scuss this situation properly." He maintained eye contact for a beat longer, then abruptly straightened, turned away, and retreated to his office with another door slam. I was still processing what had just happened when Darren appeared, his expression puzzled. "Monica, did something happen to Morris during the video conference?" he asked. Blinking away my surprise, I composed myself. "I have no idea, Darren. Is something wrong?" The lie fell easily from my lips. "He seemed distracted, like his mind was somewhere else entirely," Darren replied, glancing toward Morris's door. "Oh, by the way, Monica, I've already confirmed with Paula. You two will be joining us for dinner tonight. I'm not taking no for an answer. "I'd be delighted, Darren, assuming my boss doesn't object." "Your boss clearly has other issues on his mind, Monica!" Darren remarked as he headed into Morris's office. I quickly grabbed my phone to message Natalie, explaining I'd be home later due to dinner plans and asking if Kayla could stay longer to watch Austin. Her response was swift and encouraging I should enjoy myself while she spoiled her godson. The message made me smile. My moment of peace was shattered when Mr. Eddie stormed into the reception area. His tall, overly thin frame, ridiculous mustache, graying hair, and sharp fox-like eyes made for an intimidating presence. Something about him had put me on edge since Paula first introduced us. He approached my desk with unmistakable contempt in his eyes. "So you're the one who embarrassed my daughter yesterday, he snarled. "Because of you, Morris humiliated her like that, and his friend had to escort her outside. Listen carefully, you worthless secretary - this < 21 Chapter 21 - Fierce Protection won't stand. I'll make sure Morris fires you before the week is out." He slammed his palm on my desk before turning toward Morris's office. I jumped up immediately and positioned myself between him and the door. "Mr. Eddie, I apologize, but I must ask you to wait while I check if Mr. Lorenzo can see you now. I'm following protocol," I stated firmly. The man's face drained of color. He completely lost his composure, grabbing my neck as he shouted, "Who do you think you are, you insignificant secretary? I'm the financial director of this company! I go wherever I want, whenever I want! You're nobody to tell me what to do!" In that moment, the door behind me burst open. Morris seized me by the waist, pulling me away. from Eddie's grasp. The financial director immediately launched into accusations. "Morris, you won't believe this- this woman gravely insulted me!" Pressed against Morris's chest, I felt his angry, heavy breathing. When he spoke, his voice was ice cold. lower your voice immediately. Let me make several things perfectly clear. First, from what I heard clearly, Ms. Hayes didn't insult you quite the opposite. You owe her an apology. Second, she isn't my secretary but my executive assistant who has my complete trust. Third, you know perfectly well that you need to be announced before entering my office. Finally, and most importantly, if this is how you treat company employees, I'll need to reconsider your position here. I will not tolerate disrespect toward my staff." "But, Morris-" Eddie began, sounding affronted. "Never come to the executive floor unannounced again," Morris interrupted harshly. "Irina, come here please." Irina appeared almost instantly. "Yes, Mr. Lorenzo?" "Escort Mr. Eddie to the elevators and schedule a meeting between us for tomorrow morning in his office. Return to my office after he leaves." "Yes, sir. Mr. Eddie, this way," Irina responded professionally, though her eyes sparkled with satisfaction. "And Eddie," Morris added severely, "never lay a finger on Ms. Hayes or any other employee in my company again." 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