The boardroom was packed, tension humming like electricity in the air. Executives, investors, and advisors filled the long table, their eyes sharp, their voices already rising in debate. The leaked merger had shaken confidence, and now Greyson Black was expected to restore order.
Amanda sat beside him, her notes prepared, though her pulse raced. This was the first time she had been positioned so openly at his side — not in the shadows, not behind the desk, but in full view of the company's power players.
Greyson began with his usual authority, his voice steady and commanding. "Black Enterprises does not bend to sabotage. We adapt. We rebuild. And we rise stronger."
The room quieted, but skepticism lingered. One investor leaned forward, his tone sharp. "Mr. Black, your decision to walk away from Cole Industries cost us billions. And now you bring your assistant into these negotiations? How can we trust her judgment?"
Amanda felt the weight of every eye on her. For a moment, fear pressed against her chest. But then she remembered Greyson's words: We face this together.
She straightened, her voice clear. "You can trust my judgment because I've earned it. I've worked every late night, reviewed every contract, and stood against every attempt to undermine this company. I may not have billions, but I have loyalty. And loyalty is what keeps empires standing when profit alone fails."
The room fell silent. Executives exchanged glances, surprised by her boldness. Greyson's gaze lingered on her, pride flickering in his eyes.
Another advisor spoke, softer now. "Perhaps loyalty is exactly what we need. Profit without trust is fragile."
Greyson leaned forward, his voice firm. "Amanda Evans is not just my assistant. She is my partner in this fight. If you question her, you question me. And I assure you — I don't lose battles."
The declaration landed like a verdict. The murmurs quieted, the skepticism dimmed. For the first time, Amanda felt the shift — not just tolerated, not just defended, but recognized. She belonged here.
When the meeting ended, Amanda lingered, her heart still racing. Greyson approached, his voice low, meant only for her. "You were fearless."
Amanda smiled faintly. "I was terrified. But I wasn't alone."
Greyson's lips curved, his eyes steady. "And you never will be."
The boardroom, once a place of doubt, had become the stage where Amanda and Greyson stood united. Their bond was no longer hidden, no longer whispered about in shadows. It was undeniable, powerful, and ready to face whatever storm came next