CHAPTER FORTY TWO

I blinked, momentarily disoriented as I resurfaced from the memories. The harsh clang of Mia dropping an armful of files jolted me fully back to the present.

She didn't even spare me a glance as she grumbled under her breath, gathering up the scattered papers with jerky motions.

"Mia..." I began hesitantly. She glared at me and rolled her eyes, waiting for me to continue.

“Mr. Hernandez asked me to let you know that you’ll be accompanying him to the investor dinner tonight instead of me.”

Her eyes widened in amazement, then quickly sharpened. “Is this a joke or something? Why would Mr. Hernandez want me there instead of you?"

"I...told him I wasn't feeling well," I admitted, the lie tasting like ash in my mouth. "He said to have you assist him at the dinner."

Mia studied me closely for a long moment, likely trying to decide if I was lying or not. Finally, she seemed to accept my words as the truth, her lips curving into a satisfied smirk.

"Well, well. It seems Mr. Hernandez is finally