Chapter 3 Don't Test My Patience

Prisley's breath caught as she looked at the check. Her eyes flashed with surprise.

Heather glanced at the resignation letter on the desk, his gaze even colder. He picked up the letter and slowly tore it in pieces. He stared at Prisley, "Her return has nothing to do with you. The contract isn't up yet."

His light blue eyes were like icy lake water, sending a shiver down Prisley's spine. She remained silent for a moment, trying to steady her breathing.

"Mr. Rynn, the meeting with David is starting in ten minutes. You should go now." She tried to keep her voice steady, but it still trembled.

Heather stood up, walked around the desk, and lifted her chin with his fingers. "How dare you think of leaving me?" His possessiveness radiated from him. Then he straightened his tie and walked out. "Go to the meeting," he said over his shoulder.

In the conference room, the company's senior executives were seated. Denis, Heather's brother as well as the vice president, watched Heather stroll in leisurely. "Heather, you're late."

Heather raised an eyebrow, ignoring him, and took his seat in the center. Prisley, standing behind him, nodded slightly at Denis and pointed to her watch. "Mr. Rynn, the meeting starts in 30 seconds." She would never let the her boss be late, although a slight delay wouldn't have mattered much. She could arrange everything precise and orderly.

David didn't gain any advantage and was annoyed. He always clashed with Heather, always trying to undermine him.

Today's meeting was about the acquisition of Macron Tech. Denis wanted a project he could lead from start to finish, proving his capabilities instead of being overshadowed and criticized by Heather.

Denis passionately presented the details of Macron Tech. Heather flipped through the documents, playing with his pen, making no effort to hide his disdain.

"Sorry, Denis, this company is trash."

Denis's face turned red. "The financial data and market outlook are excellent. I'm confident I can triple their market share in a year. Are you questioning my ability?"

"I'm not questioning it, but I only trust my team."

Denis pointed at Prisley. "Her? That slut only knows how to spread her legs for you!"

There were mocking laughs. Prisley felt hostile stares from around the room. She was deeply uncomfortable but kept her professional demeanor.

She pulled up some files on her computer and projected them onto the screen. "Everyone, these are our recently compiled data, which differ significantly from what you have. I'll need about ten minutes of your time."

Heather relaxed in his chair, propping his chin on his hand, watching her speak confidently. His earlier irritation vanished. Prisley always handled these details perfectly. He never had to worry about her making mistakes.

Although Prisley and Heather kept their relationship private at work, maintaining a professional distance, there were always rumors. They were an attractive, well-matched pair, sparking speculation.

"...Therefore, we believe Macron Tech has presented overly optimistic projections. That's all. Thank you for your time." Prisley glanced at the clock - just under ten minutes.

She met Heather's gaze, and he gave her a rare smile.

Denis, embarrassed and angry, snapped, "Heather, you need to be responsible for the company!" Then he stormed out.

"Thanks for the reminder, dear brother," Heather replied lazily, getting up to leave as well.

In the CEO's office, Prisley handed Heather the meeting summary she had prepared.

Heather grabbed her retreating hand, playing with it absentmindedly. "For those stupid meetings, you handle them from now on. I don't want to waste my time."

"But Denis is your brother. You should at least give him some respect," Prisley said, trying to pull her hand back, but he gripped it tighter. "He's not cut out for this. I won't play his games anymore."

Heather brought Prisley's hand to his lips and kissed it. "That report was good. Better than I expected."

"Thank you, Mr. Rynn." Prisley wasn't sure if he had forgiven or forgotten her earlier transgression.

"Not happy?" Heather asked. "Oh, I forgot this." He took out a property deed from the drawer. "Along with the check, it's all yours."

Prisley pushed the jewelry box on the desk towards him instead of taking the deed.

"Mr. Rynn, I don't need these. I'm giving them back. Thank you for your generosity over the years."

"I'll only keep one ring as a memento." She raised her hand to show him.

Heather looked up at her. She felt the chill in his gaze. Her voice trembled. "I'll inform HR to find a suitable replacement. I won't leave until completing the handover."

She finally dared to meet his eyes.

Heather didn't speak. He stood up and walked over to Prisley. His tall frame cast a shadow over her. She lowered her eyes, not daring to meet his gaze.

Heather lifted his hand, gripping her cheek, slowly increasing the pressure.

Prisley winced in pain.

"Prisley, I'll say it again. Don't test my patience!"

"Do you remember the contract terms? The penalties for breach?" His voice was quiet but icy.

Tears filled Prisley's eyes. She dared not let them fall, breathing heavily, her chest heaving.

She clearly remembered every clause in the contract. If she unilaterally terminated it, she would have to pay a hefty compensation fee. She knew it was unfair, but how could she possibly afford to challenge Heather in court over such clauses?

Just as she feared Heather might crush her chin, he suddenly let go. His long finger brushed aside her bangs, tracing her forehead, eyes, earlobe and chin, then down to her neck. His fingers moved slowly. It was like he was admiring a piece of art. Prisley felt an inexplicable dread.

"Don't be afraid. As long as you behave well, nothing will change." His smile was enigmatic.

"But if you ever think of running away..." He kissed her hard.

Prisley pushed against his shoulders, gasping for breath and in pain.

"I can't promise what I'll do."

Prisley's lips hurt, and she tasted blood. She covered her mouth with the back of her hand, staring at Heather in terror.

"Now, get out!" His said slowly in a low voice. Prisley felt like an ice blade piercing her heart, making her whole body tense.