Whats She Overheard in Her Own Marriage novel Chapter 6

Chapter 6

Finnian had already left. Kaia stared at the data on the screen.

A moment ago, he hadn’t mentioned Noelle, not a single word of criticism. Instead, he had used his authority to put the project on hold.

Kaia stood up and walked out. In that moment, she knew that a line had

been drawn between her and Finnian.

“Kaia, come to my office.”

In the hallway, Finnian stood tall and straight, as if he had been waiting specifically for her.

Kaia followed him into the executive suite.

The door closed, and Finnian took a step forward, looking down at her. ‘You know how important that project is to Noelle. Why did you oppose it?”

Kaia turned her back to him, gazing out at the concrete jungle below. “My considerations were purely for the benefit of the company. There was no

pias.”

‘Hasn’t Noelle treated you well? Why would you veto her project at her most difficult time?” Finnian’s voice held a note of displeasure.

Kaia lifted her head to meet his disapproving gaze, not answering immediately.

She knew that any hasty defense would make her seem like she had ulterior motives.

“Mr. Sanders,” she said with a faint smile, “you’re the one who always says the company comes first. I merely raised a reasonable concern. Are you going to use personal relationships to obstruct my professional

judgment?”

Finnian looked at her upturned face, which showed a sharp edge beneath

Chapter 6

its usual gentleness.

He pinched the bridge of his nose, clearly disliking this kind of confrontation.

“Kaia, you and I both know how crucial this project is to the company’s future. Besides, my brother was very passionate about this project before he died.” Finnian mentioned his brother, Rafael, his tone heavy. “Noelle… Dr. Lawrence has poured an immense amount of effort into its research and development. Everyone has seen the time and dedication she’s invested.”

Kaia tore her gaze away from Finnian’s handsome face. “Precisely because it’s so important, we must be even more cautious when the data s flawed.”

‘You yourself agreed to form a review committee. Time and effort cannot eplace scientific validation. You know that as well as I do, Mr. Sanders.”

‘Furthermore, if a project with potential risks moves forward and fails, the damage to her reputation and the company’s losses will be even greater.”

Kaia’s business–like tone drew Finnian’s stare.

For a moment, he felt a sense of unfamiliarity with the woman he had been married to for years.

The woman he remembered was strong yet gentle, grounded and understanding.

Now, she was logical and firm, with a steeliness he had never seen before.

“Last night, Grandmother said she wants Noelle to resign from the company and move abroad. I haven’t had a chance to tell you yet,” Finnian said, his voice low.

Kaia’s expression stiffened slightly.

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Finnian looked at her, his eyes dark. “At a time like this, what Noelle needs most is our understanding and support as family. You two have always been close. In the past, you’ve always helped each other with your projects. Are you really going to strike such a heavy blow when she’s at her most vulnerable?”

Kaia’s heart sank, but her expression remained an unreadable mask.

“Mr. Sanders, we can’t lower our rigorous scientific standards for a project just because of a change in the lead researcher’s personal situation. Of course, I am only offering my professional opinion as a member of the R&D department. The final decision is yours.”

Finnian watched her silently for a few seconds, then suddenly turned and sat down in his large leather chair.

He leaned back, his hands clasped in front of him, adopting the posture

of someone in complete control.

“Kaia.”

His tone was not interrogative, but it was deep and unreadable.

‘We’re a family. Some things are better handled behind closed doors than aired out in public. My brother just passed away. How many eyes are on the Sanders family? On Aethelstan? I don’t want outsiders to see us as a joke because of some minor disagreement.”

Kaia nodded receptively. “I understand. A harmonious family is the most important thing, and the company’s stability is paramount. That’s why eliminating risks on a scientific and business level is the most responsible thing to do for both the family and the company.”

Finnian’s brow tightened. He stared at her intently for a moment, then waved his hand dismissively, his tone reverting to one of indifference. “Since you insist on a professional assessment, then fulfill your duties on the review committee. You may leave.”

“Yes, Mr. Sanders.” Kaia picked up her files from the coffee table and

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Chapter 6

walked steadily toward the door.

As her hand closed around the doorknob, she heard Finnian’s complicated voice from behind her. “If you were in Noelle’s position today, I believe she would do everything in her power to protect you.”