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At 9:30 PM, employees at the company were still at their desks. Not a single one had left for home.
A senior management meeting was in full swing in the conference room, with heads of departments gathered together, creating a tense atmosphere. Nôvel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive © material.
Connor analyzed the current market situation and the movements of competitors succinctly and effectively. The department heads shared their opinions, voicing many constructive comments and suggestions.
Finally, a consensus was reached.
Connor issued the instructions. “Everyone prepare, we are going to hold the press conference earlier than scheduled. I have great Confidence in our product. Please coordinate the venue, live streaming equipment, and media relations among your teams. Meeting adjourned.”
The atmosphere in the company instantly tightened, and the executives immediately sprang into action, coordinating the work across departments.
Camila was responsible for ensuring the smooth operation of the press conference. She communicated with the media and industry leaders to ensure their attendance at the event or participation online.
All evening, Camila was on her feet, bustling between departments, barely stopping for a moment. With time pressing and tasks piling up, she could not relax even for a second.
The admin team prepared simple snacks like pizza and fruit for everyone. Camila had just a bite of fruit before she continued her hectic schedule.
Some coordination tasks could only be done during the daytime, so employees gradually left the office until only the lights on Camila’s floor remained on.
Camila reviewed the progress of each department before finally resting her head on the desk to catch a moment of sleep. The computer screen was still on, showing the time–4:36 AM.
Connor left his office, and as he passed Camila’s desk, he paused, quietly observing her sleeping face. Her bun was slightly disheveled, and a few strands of hair gently rested on her cheek, adding a touch of soft beauty.
Unintentionally, Connor reached out, gently tucking those stray hairs behind her ear.
Camila felt someone touching her hair, and in her half–sleep, reached out and instinctively grabbed that hand. “Mom, I’m thirsty…” Her voice was soft and groggy, like a kitten’s purr. Her delicate hand was holding Connor’s lean and long fingers.
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At that moment, the air seemed to freeze. A tingling sensation spread from his fingertips throughout his body, and his heartbeat suddenly sped up.
He stared at her intently, his heart burning with an unexpected warmth.
Camila slowly opened her groggy eyes, realizing it was Conhor. Her pupils dilated sharply, and she sat up abruptly, gripping his hand tightly.
Camila found out she was holding Connor’s hand and was now startled and fully awake. She let go as if scalded.
She avoided his gaze, and her voice was filled with apology. “I’m sorry, Mr. Connor, I… I was confused.” Her voice was slightly nasal.
Connor stared at his suddenly empty hand, feeling an inexplicable sense of loss. He clenched his now empty hand as if he could still feel the warmth of her palm. He adjusted his cuff, masking his inner turmoil.
His voice was deep. “The driver has gone home…” he glanced at her. “You can sleep in my rest lounge.”
Connor’s office included a separate room and bathroom, where he often stayed overnight when busy.
Camila hesitated, then looked up at him. “That’s not necessary, I have a bed in the rest area.”