Chapter 11: Testing Boundaries

 

Using Leon Everhart’s name to give Noah a subtle warning was not Seraphina Arden’s usual style, but in this case, it seemed harmless and effective enough to prevent unnecessary trouble.

With spring came an avalanche of work. Leon Everhart was so overwhelmed that he began experiencing shortness of breath and heart palpitations. Concerned, he scheduled an appointment with a doctor. The results were swift and clear: Leon was dangerously overworked and needed to rest to avoid risking his life.

Watching the director of the hospital personally attend to Leon made Seraphina sigh. “Rich people truly live in a different world. No waiting in line, and results come out instantly.” Then she thought to herself, “But these people… no matter how much they earn, when will they think it’s enough? What’s the point of money when you lose your life? Who would even enjoy it after they’re gone?”

As the doctor assured them that Leon was not in immediate danger and simply needed rest, Seraphina exhaled deeply. After all, this was the man who signed her paycheck—she had no interest in him being sidelined by illness.

Exiting the hospital together, they reached the parking lot when Leon suddenly paused.

“Mr. Everhart, are you okay?” Seraphina asked, startled.

“Seraphina, come here and help me. I’m feeling a little dizzy,” Leon said, leaning slightly toward her.

Alarmed, Seraphina immediately grabbed his arm. “Mr. Everhart, should we go back and see the doctor?”

Leon reached out and gently grasped her hand. Her hand was soft and plush, warm to the touch. When she looked at him with genuine concern in her eyes, he couldn’t help but feel a pang of something unfamiliar. She was so close—her pale skin was almost luminous, with faint veins visible under the surface. Her scent carried a faint sweetness, like cream.

Placing his head on her shoulder, he murmured, “No need. Just let me lean on you for a moment; I’ll be fine soon.”

The intimate posture was undoubtedly inappropriate, especially in a public space. Seraphina froze, then stiffened. She promptly pushed him away with surprising force. “Mr. Everhart, if you’re feeling unwell, please sit here while I call for a doctor.”

Leon was momentarily stunned. He had only wanted to test the waters, but Seraphina’s reaction was unexpectedly fierce. Her sharp response shattered his plans.

Sighing, he slowed his steps dramatically, still pretending to be weak. He eventually followed her into the car, keeping silent with his eyes closed for the remainder of the journey.

Had Seraphina not reacted so strongly, Leon had intended to escalate his advances. Perhaps he would’ve reached for her hand in the car, and by nightfall, she might’ve been in his bed. But her quick rejection had doused his ambitions entirely. She had pushed him off like one would swat at a bothersome insect. Her clear look of wariness and mistrust made one thing apparent—she would run at the first sign of disrespect.

Leon resigned himself to patience, knowing full well that Seraphina’s loyalty as a secretary was invaluable. For now, he’d need to recalibrate his approach.

Following the doctor’s orders, Leon began taking short midday naps in his private office. It was a routine he couldn’t avoid, though his attempts to bring Seraphina closer faltered at every turn.

The next significant shift came when Harper arrived.

Harper, the youngest daughter of Henry, the owner of the city’s largest aluminum factory and a smaller real estate company, walked into the office one day with poise and elegance. Her straight hair framed a soft, radiant face, and her demeanor exuded quiet charm.

“Excuse me, beautiful, is Mr. Everhart available?” Harper asked Mia, her voice as gentle as a breeze.

At that moment, Leon emerged from his office and was visibly taken aback. “Harper? What brings you here?”

He ushered her into his office, leaving everyone outside buzzing with curiosity. They were in there for an unusually long time, delaying an important meeting.

Seraphina eventually had to knock on the door to remind Leon. Inside, she found Harper seated comfortably in Leon’s chair, the two of them chatting with unmistakable familiarity.

When Leon finally exited, he instructed Mia, “Prepare some fruit and snacks for Harper.”

This was unprecedented—Leon Everhart had never made such a gesture for anyone.

The message was clear: Harper was no ordinary visitor.

Everyone in the office understood—Harper was the boss’s real girlfriend.

For Seraphina, this revelation brought immense relief. She could finally lower her guard and convince herself that Leon’s previous behavior had been unintentional, merely a misunderstanding rather than a deliberate advance.