Wednesday arrived with an unreasonable amount of noise. Annie blamed the birds first. Then the sunlight. Then Margaret Lewis, who knocked on her bedroom door at seven in the morning with the enthusiasm of someone announcing the arrival of an emergency. “Miss Annie, you need to get ready.” Annie pulled the blanket over her head. “Tell Wednesday I’m unavailable.” “Your mother asked me to remind you that breakfast is ready.” “Tell Mother I’ve joined a monastery.” “Your father said the car will leave at eleven.” Annie lifted her head. “Why didn’t you start with that?” Margaret smiled. “Because I knew it would get you out of bed.” Annie stared at her. The housekeeper turned and left before Annie could throw a pillow. By eight, Annie was seated at the breakfast table, glaring at the plate in front of her as though it had personally offended her. Eleanor placed a cup of tea beside her. “You look tired.” “I’m being forced to attend a lunch where people will judge me based on the way I hold a fork.” Emily glanced up from her coffee. “You can hold a fork normally.” “That’s exactly what someone who has never been judged for holding a fork would say.” Nicholas entered, already dressed in a dark suit. “You’re attending a business lunch, not entering a battlefield.” “Those are often the same thing.” “Not if you smile.” “I smile when I’m planning revenge.” Nicholas sat down. “Then try not to smile too much.” Linda arrived a few minutes later, dressed in a tailored gray suit. She looked at Annie’s outfit—black trousers, a cream blouse, and a fitted jacket—and nodded once. “Good choice.” Annie looked at her suspiciously. “Are you feeling unwell?” Linda ignored her. “You look comfortable, but professional.” “I was aiming for expensive trouble.” “That too.” Emily laughed. Eleanor reached across the table and adjusted the collar of Annie’s blouse. “You don’t have to impress anyone today.” “I know.” “Stay close to people you trust.” Annie glanced toward Linda. “Does that include the sister who gives warnings without explanations?” Linda calmly picked up her cup. “You can trust me not to let you throw a glass.” “That’s not the same thing.” “It’s a beginning.” Annie looked at her for a moment, then smiled faintly. Before she could respond, her phone vibrated. Brian: Have you eaten? Annie closed her eyes. “Not again,” she muttered. Emily noticed. “Brian?” “No.” Nicholas leaned forward. “You said his name without anyone asking.” “I said nothing.” “You absolutely said his name.” Annie ignored him and typed a reply. Annie: Yes. Have you? Brian: Yes. Annie: What did you eat? Brian: Eggs, toast, fruit. Annie: And? Brian: Annie. Annie: Don’t Annie me. Add something. A moment later, Brian replied. Brian: Oatmeal. Annie smiled. Nicholas leaned across the table, trying to see her screen. She immediately turned the phone away. “Do you want to lose your eyesight?” “Your secrecy is suspicious.” “My privacy is precious.” “Your romance is obvious.” Annie placed her phone face down. “Eat your breakfast before I feed it to you through your nose.” Nicholas picked up his fork. “Violent woman,” he muttered. “Alive man,” Annie replied. The formal lunch was held at the private dining hall of one of the city’s most exclusive hotels. The entrance alone was enough to make Annie reconsider her decision. A line of luxury vehicles stood outside. Men in dark suits spoke into phones, while women dressed in elegant clothing moved through the entrance with practiced confidence. A large floral arrangement stood in the center of the lobby, surrounded by polished marble and expensive lighting. Annie stepped out of the car beside William and looked around. “Does everyone here know how much their clothes cost?” William adjusted his cuff. “Probably.” “Do they also know how ridiculous they look?” “Annie.” “What? I’m asking a cultural question.” Eleanor touched her arm gently. “Just be yourself.” “That’s what worries me.” They entered the dining hall, where several guests had already gathered. Conversations slowed. Not stopped completely, but enough for Annie to notice. She had become accustomed to being observed since returning to the Samson family. Some people looked at her with curiosity, others with sympathy, and a few with barely concealed judgment. Today, however, the attention felt different. She was no longer simply the daughter who had returned after eighteen years. She was the youngest Samson daughter. And, increasingly, people associated her with Brian Starks. Annie lifted her chin. If they wanted to stare, they could at least have the decency to make it interesting. William greeted several business partners, introducing Annie as his daughter. Eleanor remained beside her, offering quiet support whenever a conversation became too formal. One elderly man with silver hair smiled at Annie. “So this is the daughter the Samson family recently found.” Annie smiled politely. “That’s what they tell me.” The man laughed, unsure whether she was joking. William’s expression softened with pride. “This is my youngest daughter, Annie.” “Very pleased to meet you,” the man said. “You must be enjoying life in the city after growing up in the countryside.” “I enjoy food in both places,” Annie replied. “The city simply charges more for it.” The man laughed properly this time. Eleanor lowered her head to hide her smile. Across the room, Linda watched Annie carefully. She seemed ready to intervene if necessary, but Annie handled each introduction with confidence, neither shrinking nor trying too hard to impress. Then the room changed. It happened gradually. A few conversations quieted. Several guests turned toward the entrance. Annie didn’t need to look to know who had arrived. Brian entered with Jason Vale and Aaron beside him. He wore a black suit with a white shirt, the clean lines of his clothing emphasizing his broad shoulders and controlled presence. He wasn’t smiling. He rarely did in rooms like this. People shifted to make way for him, greeting him with respect and caution. Brian acknowledged them with brief nods, his attention moving across the room. Then he saw Annie. His expression changed. Only slightly. But she noticed. The tension around his eyes eased, and his gaze settled on her as though the crowded room had suddenly become less important. Annie’s heartbeat stumbled. Nicholas, standing beside her, leaned closer. “Oh, he definitely looked for you first.” “Be quiet.” “I didn’t say anything loudly.” “You said it with your entire face.” Brian approached them. “William,” he greeted. “Brian. Good to see you.” They shook hands before Brian turned toward Eleanor. “Mrs. Samson.” Eleanor smiled warmly. “It’s good to see you again.” Then his attention moved to Annie. “Hello.” Annie looked at him. “That’s all?” His eyebrows lifted. “What were you expecting?” “A dramatic entrance. Perhaps a speech about how you survived the morning without my supervision.” “I managed.” “Barely, I assume.” Brian’s gaze moved briefly over her outfit. It wasn’t an obvious inspection, but Annie felt it all the same. “You look beautiful,” he said. The words were quiet enough that only those closest to them heard. Annie’s mouth opened, then closed. Nicholas looked away with exaggerated innocence. Annie recovered quickly. “You look tolerable.” “I’ll take that.” Jason appeared behind Brian, grinning. “Good afternoon, Annie. I see you’ve already begun insulting him.” “She’s been doing that since the first day,” Brian said. “And you’re still here?” Jason asked. Brian looked at Annie. “I seem to have developed a preference for it.” Annie’s face warmed. Jason’s grin widened. Aaron coughed into his hand, though it sounded suspiciously like a laugh. “Wonderful,” Annie muttered. “Now there are witnesses.” The seating arrangement placed Annie between Eleanor and Brian. She discovered this only after everyone had taken their places. Annie looked at her chair, then at Brian’s. Then she turned to William. “Was this planned?” William looked genuinely confused. “The seats?” “Yes. The suspiciously convenient seats.” Brian pulled out her chair before she could do it herself. “Sit down, Annie.” She glanced at him. “Don’t order me around.” “I’m asking.” “Your voice doesn’t know the difference.” Still, she sat. Brian took the seat beside her. Across the table, Jason leaned toward Aaron. “This is going to be entertaining.” Aaron didn’t look up from the menu. “You say that about everything.” “Because I’m usually right.” The first course arrived, and the conversation shifted toward business. The Samson Group was discussing a potential partnership with several regional suppliers. The proposal involved expanding distribution networks, increasing production capacity, and entering two new markets. Annie listened while eating, initially expecting to become bored. Then one of the executives began discussing a projected increase in profit. “The expansion should increase annual revenue by approximately twenty percent,” he said confidently. William asked a few questions, and the executive answered smoothly. Annie glanced at the documents in front of him. Something caught her attention. She leaned slightly toward the table, studying the figures. Brian noticed. “What is it?” he murmured. “Nothing.” “That usually means something.” Annie lowered her voice. “The projected revenue assumes the current customer retention rate will remain unchanged.” Brian glanced at the document. “Yes.” “That’s unrealistic if they’re increasing prices in the same quarter.” He turned his head toward her. Annie continued, “The proposal also assumes the new markets will respond like the existing ones. They won’t. The purchasing patterns are different, and the distribution costs are being underestimated.” Brian’s eyes sharpened. She looked at him. “What?” “Nothing.” “That’s my line.” The executive continued explaining his projections, unaware of their conversation. Brian leaned back and asked, “What is the expected customer retention rate after the price adjustment?” The executive paused. “I believe it will remain relatively stable.” “You believe?” Brian asked. The man straightened. “Our analysts have indicated—” “Have they calculated the effect of the price increase across each market?” The executive glanced at his documents. Silence. Brian’s tone remained calm, but the atmosphere around the table cooled. “Then the projection is incomplete,” he said. “You’re presenting an optimistic estimate as though it were a reliable forecast.” William looked at Annie briefly. Linda also seemed to have noticed the connection. The executive hurried to defend his proposal, but Brian asked several precise questions that exposed gaps in the analysis. Annie quietly continued eating. She hadn’t intended to participate. She had simply noticed a problem. But when Brian finally turned toward her, his expression held something unmistakably close to admiration. “You saw that immediately,” he said under his breath. “I have eyes.” “And a sharp mind.” Annie paused. Compliments from Brian were becoming dangerous. She picked up her glass. “Don’t make me blush in front of rich people.” “I wasn’t aware you blushed.” “I don’t. I was warning you about a hypothetical situation.” Brian’s mouth curved. Under the table, his hand brushed hers. The contact was brief. Intentional. Annie glanced down. His fingers remained close to hers, but he didn’t take her hand. She turned her palm slightly. Their fingers touched again. Neither of them moved away. During the second course, a woman in a pale gold dress approached their table. She was elegant, poised, and perhaps in her early thirties. Her dark hair was styled perfectly, and the diamond bracelet on her wrist caught the light whenever she moved. “Brian,” she said warmly. Brian looked up. “Victoria.” Annie’s attention shifted. Victoria smiled at him, then turned toward the others. “I hope I’m not interrupting.” “You already have,” Jason said. Aaron kicked him lightly under the table. Victoria laughed, though her eyes remained on Brian. “I haven’t seen you in weeks. Your assistant said you’ve been difficult to reach.” “I’ve been busy.” “You’re always busy.” Her tone was familiar. Too familiar for Annie’s liking, though she immediately criticized herself for noticing. Victoria’s gaze moved to Annie. “And you must be Annie Samson.” Annie smiled. “That depends on who’s asking.” “Victoria Hale.” “I’ve heard the name.” Victoria’s smile remained in place. “I’m sure you have.” There was nothing openly hostile in her voice, but something about the exchange felt measured. Victoria looked at Brian again. “I didn’t know you were attending with someone.” “I’m attending a business lunch,” Brian replied. “Of course.” Her gaze lowered briefly to the space between his hand and Annie’s. Annie noticed. So did Brian. His fingers moved beneath the table, covering Annie’s hand. The gesture was so natural that she almost forgot they were surrounded by people. Victoria’s expression changed for the smallest fraction of a second. Then she smiled again. “I’ll let you return to your lunch.” She walked away. Annie waited until she was several steps away before leaning toward Brian. “Who was that?” “Victoria Hale.” “I heard her name.” “She’s involved in several investment firms.” Annie looked toward the woman. “She seems very interested in you.” Brian’s hand remained over hers. “She’s interested in business.” “Of course.” Jason nearly choked on his water. Brian turned toward Annie. “What does that mean?” “Nothing.” “That usually means something.” Annie looked at him with a pleasant smile. “You’re learning.” His thumb moved once across the back of her hand. The small motion distracted her so thoroughly that she forgot what she had planned to say. Brian leaned closer. “Are you jealous?” Annie turned sharply. “Of what?” “Victoria.” She scoffed. “Why would I be jealous of someone who wears enough jewelry to require security?” Jason looked down at his plate, shoulders shaking. Brian’s eyes remained on Annie. “That wasn’t an answer.” “Neither was your question.” “Annie.” “Brian.” He studied her for a moment. Then he smiled. She hated that smile. She loved it even more. After lunch, the guests gathered in the hotel’s private lounge for coffee and further discussions. Annie escaped toward the large windows overlooking the city. She needed a moment away from the table, the business conversations, and Victoria Hale’s irritatingly perfect smile. Eleanor joined her first. “You handled yourself well.” Annie looked at her. “I didn’t throw anything.” “That’s not the only measure of success.” “It should be.” Eleanor laughed softly. “Brian looked proud of you.” Annie turned toward the window. “He looked like he was calculating profit margins.” “Annie.” “What?” “You don’t have to pretend with me.” Annie’s expression softened. Eleanor reached for her hand. “Whatever you feel for him, you can take your time. You don’t owe anyone a decision.” Annie looked down at their joined hands. “I know.” “Do you?” Annie nodded. “I’m trying to.” Eleanor squeezed her fingers. “That’s enough.” She left a few minutes later to speak with William. Annie remained by the window, watching traffic move far below. “You’re hiding.” Brian’s voice came from behind her. She didn’t turn immediately. “I’m admiring the view.” “You’ve been standing here for six minutes.” “Perhaps I admire things slowly.” Brian stepped beside her. For a while, they looked out at the city together. “Did you enjoy the lunch?” he asked. “The food was good.” “That wasn’t what I asked.” “The business discussion was tolerable.” “And the people?” “Some were tolerable.” “Victoria?” Annie turned toward him. “You’re very interested in my opinion of her.” “I’m interested in your opinion.” “That sounds dangerous.” “Why?” “Because I have many.” Brian leaned against the window frame. “She and I have worked together on several investments. That’s all.” Annie studied his face. “You don’t have to explain yourself to me.” “I know.” “Then why are you?” “Because I want you to understand.” The answer silenced her. Brian continued, “I don’t want you to feel uncertain about where you stand with me.” Annie’s heart began to beat faster. “And where do I stand?” she asked, trying to sound casual. Brian turned fully toward her. “Beside me.” The words were simple. But there was nothing casual about the way he said them. Annie’s breath caught. “Brian…” “I’m not asking you to make a promise today,” he said. “I’m not asking you to call this something before you’re ready.” His gaze remained steady. “But I want you to know that when I look for someone in a room, it’s you.” Annie’s chest tightened. The sounds of the lounge seemed to fade around them. She had no clever response. No sarcastic remark. No escape route. So she settled for the truth. “That’s a very unfair thing to say to someone who was trying not to like you.” Brian’s expression softened. “Are you still trying?” Annie looked away. “No.” The admission escaped before she could stop it. When she turned back, Brian was watching her with a tenderness that made her stomach flutter. “Good,” he said. Annie swallowed. “Don’t look so pleased.” “I’m trying not to.” “You’re failing.” “I know.” For a moment, she thought he might kiss her. The thought no longer frightened her. It made her want to close the distance. But footsteps approached from behind them. “Brian,” William called. “We’re about to begin the final discussion.” Brian didn’t look away from Annie immediately. Then he nodded. “I’ll be there.” William returned to the group. Annie exhaled slowly. Brian lowered his voice. “We should go.” “Unfortunately.” He offered his hand. Annie looked at it. Then she placed hers in his. This time, she didn’t pretend it was accidental. The final discussion lasted another forty minutes. Annie sat beside Brian, listening as the executives revised the proposal. The figures were adjusted, the risks reassessed, and the agreement postponed until a more detailed report could be prepared. When it ended, several guests approached Brian to speak privately. Annie stood with Eleanor, Emily, and Linda near the exit. Victoria passed them on her way out. She paused beside Annie. “You seem to have settled into the Samson family quickly.” Annie smiled. “I’m comfortable.” “I imagine it helps to have Brian Starks beside you.” Annie’s smile faded slightly. Victoria’s tone remained polite, but her words carried an edge. “Brian’s world can be demanding,” she continued. “People often misunderstand what it means to stand close to him.” Annie tilted her head. “Is that advice?” “Consider it an observation.” “Then I’ll observe it.” Victoria blinked. Annie continued, “But if you’re trying to warn me, you should be more direct. I dislike riddles.” Linda’s eyes shifted toward her. Victoria’s smile became thinner. “You’re certainly confident.” “I’m told it’s one of my more tolerable qualities.” Before Victoria could respond, Brian appeared beside Annie. His presence changed the atmosphere immediately. “Is there a problem?” he asked. Victoria turned toward him. “No. We were just speaking.” “About what?” “Your new companion.” Brian’s expression hardened. Annie felt his hand settle at the small of her back. Not possessive. Protective. “She’s not my companion,” he said. Victoria’s gaze moved between them. Brian looked at Annie. “She’s with me.” The distinction was quiet but unmistakable. Annie felt the warmth of his hand through her jacket. Victoria’s face remained composed, though her eyes cooled. “Of course,” she said. “Have a pleasant afternoon.” She walked away. Annie watched her leave, then looked up at Brian. “You know,” she murmured, “you could have said I was your wife. You seem to enjoy that.” Brian glanced down at her. “Would you prefer that?” Annie’s teasing expression faltered. His voice was calm, but his question wasn’t a joke. She looked away first. “Don’t get ahead of yourself.” “I’m not.” “Good.” His hand remained at her back as they walked toward the exit. And Annie didn’t ask him to move it. Outside the hotel, the afternoon sun warmed the pavement. William and Eleanor prepared to leave with Emily and Linda, while Brian waited beside his car. Annie stood with her family, but her attention kept drifting toward him. Nicholas noticed, naturally. “You could simply walk over there,” he whispered. “I’m standing perfectly well here.” “You’ve looked at him seven times.” “Are you counting?” “Yes.” “Find a hobby.” “I have one. It’s observing your romantic collapse.” Annie elbowed him. Eleanor smiled. “Brian offered to take you home, didn’t he?” Annie looked toward her. “He did.” “Then go.” Annie hesitated. The hesitation wasn’t because she didn’t want to. It was because she did. Too much. She walked toward Brian, who opened the passenger door for her. Before she entered, she looked back at her family. William gave her an approving nod. Emily smiled. Linda only said, “Message when you get home.” Annie pointed at her. “You’re becoming just like him.” Linda’s expression remained serious. “Someone has to.” Annie climbed into the car. Brian closed the door and walked around to the driver’s side. Once he entered, he glanced at her. “How was the lunch?” Annie fastened her seat belt. “I survived.” “You handled yourself well.” “Everyone keeps saying that.” “Because it’s true.” She looked at him. “You were proud of me.” Brian started the engine. “Yes.” The directness of his answer left her quiet. After a moment, she turned toward the window. “You’re making it difficult again.” “I know.” “Do you enjoy making my life difficult?” Brian pulled away from the hotel. “No,” he said. “I enjoy being part of it.” Annie looked at him. Outside, the city moved around them, loud and hurried. Inside the car, everything felt strangely still. She reached across the center console and took his hand. Brian glanced down briefly, then turned his palm upward to hold hers. Annie stared ahead, her cheeks warm. “Don’t misunderstand,” she said. “I won’t.” “I’m only doing this because you behaved well today.” “Of course.” “And because you ate breakfast.” “Of course.” “And because you didn’t let that woman make things uncomfortable.” Brian’s thumb brushed over her knuckles. “Annie.” “What?” “You don’t have to justify holding my hand.” She looked down at their joined fingers. For once, she didn’t argue. She simply tightened her grip. And Brian drove on, holding her hand as though it were the most natural thing in the world.

The Woman Beside the CEO