The ebon rose

She swallowed hard. "I... I want to resign." The word struck like an insult. His jaw tightened, but his voice came out low, dangerous. "What did you just say?" Her eyes flickered with panic. "I-I'm pregnant. My baby need me. I can't balance this anymore." He stepped closer, his shadow falling over her. His gaze was merciless. "And you thought walking in here, announcing this, would be acceptable? Do you have any idea what disruption this causes?" "I'm sorry, sir, but-" "Enough." His voice cracked like a whip. The nearby employees froze. "You will work for one more month. Then you may leave. Until then, I expect precision. No excuses. No mistakes." Tears welled in her eyes, but she managed, "Yes, sir." "Good." He adjusted his cufflinks, his voice flat and final. "Before you go, find me a replacement. Someone competent. Don't dare waste my time again." This was the way he was-with everyone. Controlled, feared, untouchable. And now, the story was about to change. Because soon, he would meet someone who wouldn't be like the others...