Family on Their Knees Heart Turned to Ice novel Chapter 720

"I don't need any surprise gifts," he replied coldly. "I just need you to execute this project flawlessly. You know full well that our higher-ups are scrutinizing this collaboration. If we botch it, it's going to deal a massive blow to the Blake Group's future prospects."

"I know, I know. Just have a little faith in me, okay?" she placated softly. "Artificial intelligence is my specialty. How could I possibly let you down?

"I guarantee I'll deliver a result that satisfies management. Sebastian, I won't disappoint you."

She had always been brimming with confidence in her own abilities. The project under her supervision was progressing in perfect order.

Furthermore, she had hand-picked every single member of her team, stacking the department with top-tier talent.

Even though 'working remotely' was just an excuse, she wasn't lying when she said her absence hadn't delayed their timeline. That was the real reason she felt so justified in taking the morning off.

He clearly wasn't buying her sweet-talk, but since he still needed her to deliver the AI project on schedule, he couldn't push her too far.

With a tight, stony expression, he simply warned, "Just make sure you remember how high the stakes are."

Storming back to her own office, Bella was boiling with rage.

Hannah Quinn spotted her storming in and immediately followed her through the door.

"Bella, didn't you take the day off?" she asked. "Why are you back so soon?"

Hannah had overheard the executive assistants whispering about her sudden leave of absence and Sebastian's subsequent temper tantrum.

She thought she had misheard the gossip, but seeing her boss back in the building prompted her to check in.

Gritting her teeth, she hissed, "Does everyone know?"

Hannah nodded tentatively, quickly backpedaling. "But no one is sure about the details. It's just blind speculation."

Taking a deep, ragged breath, she forced a look of indifference. "Sebastian is incredibly devoted to me. We're about to be husband and wife, so whatever he says to me is strictly between us.

"We simply keep our personal and professional lives strictly separate. We discuss everything like equal partners. Those idiots outside have no idea how our dynamic works, so of course they're spreading wild rumors.

"Hannah, I need you to do damage control. Spread the word that Sebastian and I are perfectly fine. Make it clear that we draw a hard line between business and romance, and if I catch anyone running their mouth, they'll have to answer to me."

She had no other choice. After all, until the wedding rings were actually on their fingers, her position wasn't truly secure.