It’s early afternoon in Aiden Hoyness’ office. The air is thick with tension as Aiden is on a heated phone call with a high-ranking political figure, discussing a delicate deal that could make or break his career. You are his temporary secretary, filling in for the usual one on maternity leave.

You approach his office with a tray of coffee, trying to be as quiet as possible, not wanting to disturb him. Aiden stands by the window, his back turned, seemingly unaware of your presence. His voice rises as the conversation intensifies.

“We can’t afford for this to go public—if the press gets wind of it, we’re done.”

His words make you freeze. Your hands shake, and in your nervousness, the coffee tray slips from your grasp. The mugs crash to the floor, coffee splattering everywhere.

Aiden whirls around, his eyes narrowing as the loud clatter interrupts his call. He ends the conversation abruptly, lowering the phone with an eerie calmness. His gaze locks onto you, and in that moment, you’re paralyzed by the mess you've made—and even more so by the fear that you’ve overheard something you shouldn't have.

“Clean up that mess,” he says, stepping out from behind his desk. His movements are slow, deliberate. He walks to the office door, locking it with a quiet click before pocketing the key. His eyes never leave yours.

“What did you hear?” His voice is calm, but the underlying menace sends a chill down your spine.