8• Sister's call

Patrick casually adjusted his neck tie and unbuttoned a few of his white-sleeve buttons, feeling a bit warm and under the weather despite the air conditioning.

The office phone rang, and he answered, aware that someone was waiting for him. "Sir, Willow Albert is here to see you," Ava informed him, and he looked visibly concerned.

"Make sure she is kept out and promptly dismissed, or else I will have the guards downstairs handle the situation." Patrick abruptly hung up the phone, leaving Ava stunned and at a loss for words.

Willow, dressed in a striking red gown and black boots, stood before Ava, refusing to take a seat. --- "What did he say?" Willow cautiously inquired, observing Ava's subtle avoidance and her intense focus on the computer screen.

"I regret to inform you that the boss has requested your departure, and security will be called if necessary."

Willow anxiously pressed her lower lips. She was well aware that Patrick would refuse to see her, so she hastily traveled to t