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Novel Catalog
Chapter_26
Chapter 26
The tension in the room is palpable as Jasper steps into Alyssa’s office. He’s accustomed to being the one in control, but Alyssa’s presence throws him off balance. The initial surprise of seeing her different from what he expected—young, not as refined as the general manager persona he had anticipated—only adds to his discomfort.
Alyssa, however, is calm and collected. She’s not fazed by his subtle criticism or the unspoken tension. Her control over the situation is evident as she orchestrates the scene, including using Mia to handle the conversation for her. But as Jasper compliments the painting, something shifts. It’s a small, almost inconsequential gesture, but it rattles Alyssa in a way she doesn’t expect. The fact that he acknowledges her taste—something she never thought would impress him—hits a nerve.
Despite the years of complex history between them, this moment of simple acknowledgment feels different. It’s clear from the subtle pause in her chewing and her carefully crafted smile that the compliment stirs something within her. For a moment, the walls she’s built between herself and Jasper start to show signs of cracking.
Jasper, on his part, maintains his composure. His refusal to accept the painting, which he views as a generous offer, suggests a different kind of pride. He’s not just rejecting her gift, but also maintaining his distance. The sharpness of the painting, which Alyssa implies is valuable, makes it clear that they are operating from different worlds.
The exchange between them isn’t just about the painting—it’s symbolic of the larger dynamic at play. Jasper’s acknowledgment, while small, is significant, and Alyssa’s response shows that, despite her hard exterior, she’s still affected by him, especially in these small, unexpected moments.