Devil's Prisoner of Love by Prefer

The airport.

Aurora and Julian cto see Asher off.

"Ashy, callwhen you arrive," Aurora said softly.

"Don't worry, I'll contact you as soon as I land," Asher assured her.

"You'll be alone in New York, so take care of yourself. Make sure to eat on tand don't overwork. The company is already on track; there's no need for you to push yourself like before." Aurora hugged him gently.

She knew the company's rapid growth over the years was inseparable from Asher's hard work. When they had fought side by side, it hadn't seemed so exhausting. But now, with him working alone, loneliness was inevitable.

"I'm a grown man, Aurora. Don't worry about me. I'm heading to my gate now." Asher parted from her with a smile, walking away with a carefree demeanor.

Every tthey met, it was hard to say goodbye. Parting was always bittersweet. But since leaving was inevitable, it was better to do so decisively-lingering only made it harder.

Watching Asher's solitary figure disappear, Aurora felt a pang of sorrow.

Julian wrapped his arms around her. "You feel reluctant to let him go, don't you?" "Mm. Over the years, I've always been by Ashy's side. Now that he's alone, I can't help but worry. I don't know when he'll find someone to share his life with. It's his departing silhouette that I hate seeing the most." "Don't worry. Everyone will find their partner eventually. It's not something to rush. Besides, Asher's still young, isn't he? Wait until he's thirty-five and still single-then you can start worrying." "You're right." Aurora smiled faintly. "We still have two days of vacation left before work starts again. Let's make the most of it." "How about we head back to our island?" Julian suggested. They had spent the past few days with family and friends, but a little talone was overdue.

"Just what I was thinking." In the cold of winter, the island's weather was perfect. They spent two carefree days there, enjoying each other's company.

When the vacation ended, they returned to their busy lives. Work awaited them, and Julian soon flew to Europe. Mira had already called him two days earlier, asking him to come, but he had delayed his trip to spend more twith Aurora.

On the plane, he promised himself that this would be the last major project he'd take on for the year. Once this deal was settled, he planned to leave the rest to Phil and Rock. June marked their wedding, and after that, Julian was determined to take a long break to be with Aurora.

Both of them understood the importance of this busy period and worked hard to wrap up their commitments. Once these months of effort were behind them, life would becmuch easier.

Aurora's company was also settling into a steady rhythm. Mona officially submitted her resignation, announcing her plan to return to New York to assist Asher.

"That's a good idea. I feel better knowing Ashy won't be completely alone over there," Aurora agreed. "Heather and lan are both promising talents. With their help, your workload will lighten in no time," Mona reassured her. Mona had spent months at the company and felt reluctant to leave.

"Thanks to your guidance, they've grown so quickly. Are you really leaving without saying goodbye?" "You know me-I've never been one for goodbyes. It's better to leave quietly than to make everyone sad." "Fair enough. Safe travels." "Goodbye, Aurora. Be happy." Mona hugged her lightly.

"You too." If you're loving the book, nel5sis where the adventure continues. Join us for the complete experience-all for free. The next chapter is eagerly waiting for you! Aurora understood Mona's unspoken feelings for Asher. Unrequited and one-sided, she had once tried to set them up, but Asher had shown no interest whatsoever. He had even warned Aurora not to meddle in his personal life.

Love wasn't something that could be forced. Aurora had wanted to invite Mona to this year's New Year's party, but Asher flatly refused. He was aware of Mona's feelings but couldn't reciprocate. To avoid awkwardness, Aurora had reluctantly dropped the idea. Perhaps Asher had returned to the States partly to avoid Mona. When Mona decided to go back to New York, it seemed like fate was playing its hand, keeping them apart once again. Asher's avoidance wasn't accidental-it was deliberate. From the beginning, he hadn't wanted to lead her on. Mona understood, too, and didn't try to force anything. She simply wanted to help him.

After seeing Mona off, Aurora sat down, taking a deep breath.

In life, there are countless meetings and farewells. While meetings are out of one's control, so too are goodbyes. The only thing people can manage is their own hearts.

Not long after Mona left, Heather and lan entered the office.

"Miss Montgomery, how was your New Year's?" Heather asked.

Heather had cut her hair short, giving her a sharper and more vibrant appearance. Ian, too, looked refreshed.

"It was great. You two didn't hold back on food over the holidays, did you? You both look like you've gained weight." "I went hfor the holidays. My family said I was too skinny and madeeat more," Heather grumbled. "Well, it seems love agrees with you. Ian went with you, didn't he?" Aurora teased.

The two turned red, looking embarrassed.

"Miss Montgomery, how did you know?" lan asked nervously.

"Because he's gained weight too. Didn't you both eat at the stable?" "Miss Montgomery, you're terrible!" Heather protested.

Aurora smiled but then turned serious. "Alright, I won't tease you anymore. I don't mind office romances, but you need to keep things professional. Don't let it affect the workplace." "Understood, Miss Montgomery," they replied in unison.

Many companies forbade office relationships, but Aurora was lenient. The least they could do was appreciate her trust and behave appropriately.

"Good. Now, lan, you'll be taking over Mona's responsibilities, while Heather stays in her current position for now." "The general manager left? We just saw her earlier. Why didn't she say goodbye?" They both sounded surprised. "She's not one for farewells. It's the thought that counts. Let's focus on the work ahead. The company is thriving right now.

Our skincare line has been well-received, but the fashion department needs to step up Anew collection is already in development, and I want it launched by March. It's a tight schedule, but it's all for the company's growth. I trust you understand." Aurora thought of her six-month agreement with Gore. She needed to deliver results within that tto earn his respect.

"We understand. Last year's bonuses shocked everyone. You're far more generous than their previous employers. Everyone's eager to follow your lead.

It's funny-on the first day back, employees at other companies look like they're attending a funeral, but here, everyone's full of energy and optimism. You've given them purpose." "That's good to hear. Now, get to work." Aurora waved them off with a smile.

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