LOGINThe members of Julian's team had no idea what had just hit them. Some froze where they stood. Staring at Julian as if he'd lost his grip on reality. Others simply gaped, mouths hanging open. It was as though he'd announced the end of the world. A heavy wave of disbelief swept through the lab for a full 5 seconds. No one moved. Then the room erupted. A team member asked. Dr. Rhodes, what are you talking about? Have you lost your mind? Another one questioned, who are you asking? Don't tell me. Someone else added, wait, who's Dr. Anderson? Are you saying Ruby is Dr. Anderson? A voice insisted, no, that's not possible. Just as the team was about to write him off as crazy, Ruby met Julian's gaze with a dead-serious expression. I think it's better to start over, Dr. Rhodes, she said, her lips curving into a smile as she extended her arm. Hi, I'm Dr. Anderson. The lab went so quiet it felt like the air itself s
The conference room was dead silent. Everyone's eyes were locked on Miles. The shock written plainly across their faces. Their gazes flicked back and forth between Ruby and Miles, their minds scrambling to make sense of what was happening. Despite them all having different roles to play right now, every single one of them had only one question running in their mind. Why would Miles call Ruby Dr. Anderson? Could Ruby actually be Dr. Anderson? Carter shot to his feet so fast, his chair screeched across the floor. What the hell do you think you are doing? He barked. You don't get to throw Dr. Anderson's name around casually like that. If they ever heard— He began. But Miles raised a hand and cut him short. I figured you'd say that, Miles said, as he reached into his bag and pulled out a document, holding it up high for everyone to see. It was Dr. Anderson's official identification, and the name printed on it was unmi
The second mile spoke, the room fell dead silent. Every head swiveled between him and Isabel as a wave of confusion washed over them. Even Owen, who was generally conservative with his emotions, leaned forward with interest. Well, now this sounds interesting. He whispered, inwardly, leo, on the other hand, could not handle the twist. He had enough surprises for one day already. He looked like his brain was about to explode. Carter shot Ruby a sharp, baffled look. What the hell is going on? Ruby bit her lip and lifted her chin. Her eyes met Miles's gaze head-on. The solutions Dr. Anderson sent of Ants Industries were private, she said, coolly. They had nothing to do with Knight Corporation. And since you're only his assistant, I wouldn't expect you to know about them. Carter felt the tension ease from his shoulders. Ruby pressed on, her voice sharp. With all due respect, Mr. Jordan. Are you suggesting we just drop this? Because if you are, we would prefer you just say it straig
Sheila looked at Carter for support. But she got nothing from him. He just looked sideways, pretending he had nothing to do with it. She then looked for Isabel, but she had nothing to offer either. "Ma'am. Let me ask you again," the HR Director began, "how did you know it was the files related to the hydrogen fuel plan?" Sheila sputtered, words failing her before she bowed her head in defeat. "I don't care. I did it. It has nothing to do with my daughter. Call the police. Arrest me. It was all my fault." The director sighed again. His expression was a mixture of pity and concern as he looked at the kneeling woman. Carter's eyes stayed locked on Sheila. He should have despised this woman, but watching her debase herself for her daughter sent a sharp and unwanted sympathy through his chest. He rounded on Ruby. "Say something," he roared. "Are you really going to stand there and let your mother take the fall for you? Do you have any shame?" The HR director's voice follo
As Owen and Leo headed for HR, Ruby stepped out of the elevator and headed straight for her department. This wasn't just a usual day, and she knew it. She'd only taken two steps, and as if right on cue, Todd Mullins's voice slithered up from behind her. Ruby, look, I don't know what's going on between you and the CEO, but you've got to admit his reputation around here isn't exactly solid. He paused and leaned in closer. Word is, he might not be in power for much longer. I'm just looking out for you. You are a smart one. You shouldn't get on Carter's bad side. Todd was Carter's right-hand man, and after seeing Carter and Ruby interact a few times, he had a pretty good idea where his boss's loyalties lay. He lowered his voice. Stick with him. Things will fall into place for you. At the very least, he can help you clean up the mess you're about to walk into. Ruby looked at him coolly. Her almond-shaped eyes were calm, detached. She smiled faintly, turned on her heel, and walked straight
Owen's suggestion hung in the air. It took Ruby a few moments to snap out of her reading streak. She glanced out the window, and it really did look like a beautiful day. Maybe I need a break too, she thought to herself. She looked at Owen and nodded. Kitty stood up and wagged his tail as though he was asking to take him along with her. All right. I think you deserve a break too, she remarked, and went on to help Matilda get ready. "Are you coming along as well?" Matilda asked, looking at Owen. Owen wasn't sure. His immediate gaze fell upon Ruby, but before he could react, Matilda chimed in. Let me make it easier for you. You are coming. End of discussion. Soon enough, they made their way to the hospital garden. Ruby found a bench and helped Matilda get settled. Then she stared out at the distant lake, her mind replaying the neurology concepts she'd just been reading. Owen's voice suddenly cut through her thoughts. Do you spend a lot of your time online? Ruby looked over at him, dresse
Ruby had guarded her identity as Dr. N fiercely, planning to keep it hidden for as long as possible. It was the only sanctuary she had from the toxicity of her other life. They're trying hard. But don't worry, we'll maintain complete confidentiality. Miles assured. You sure? She pressed. Absolu
In an instant, Owen's face darkened, his eyes narrowed, completely void of emotion. He stared at her for a second, then turned to head back into the party. Ruby quickly stepped in front of him, blocking his path. Owen's brow furrowed. Move, he ordered. His voice was low and smooth. The kind of v
With Ruby lost in her own thought,"Shelia was taking her own trip down her memory. Had that wretched Natalia not appeared over twenty years ago. I would have been Warren's bride. Sheila reflected sourly. For two decades, she had lived with a secret only she knew. Her hatred for Natalia had ru
Miss Anderson, you're already married. You cannot marry again. The shocked city clerk said flatly as he slid a paper towards Ruby. Here's your marriage certificate, so we cannot register you again. Ruby blinked, shocked. I'm sorry. What did you just say? You're married? He snapped, waving to the







