Maynard understood all too well—the real tension between Mr. and Mrs. Langford always came down to Violet.
As McNeil's assistant, his job was simple: follow orders, stay busy when needed, and otherwise keep his mouth shut. He knew his place and never poked his nose into matters above his pay grade.
Still, Maynard prided himself on his sharp instincts. Lately, he'd noticed a subtle shift in the way Mr. Langford treated his wife. Just yesterday, after dropping Mrs. Langford off, his boss had made a point to say, "If she ever needs anything, put her first—even before me." That kind of instruction wasn't something you heard every day. Maynard had become even more cautious and respectful around Victoria since then.
"Please, this way," he said, gesturing politely.
Rumor had it—overheard from colleagues, as always—that two companies had toured headquarters yesterday. Mrs. Langford had been present, and there'd been some friction. Apparently, Mr. Langford had stepped in to support her. All of this was office gossip, of course, but it made for interesting speculation.
He led Victoria through the executive elevator straight into the company's inner sanctum. The receptionist gave Victoria a thorough look, clearly curious about what kind of VIP could warrant Maynard's personal escort.
"Mrs. Langford, if you'd wait in the lounge, I'll let Mr. Langford know you're here."
Maynard took her up to the floor where McNeil's office was located. Victoria nodded with a reserved "Thank you," then quietly took in her surroundings.
A few employees noticed Maynard and Victoria together, their curiosity barely concealed. Most of the senior staff at Vertex Dynamics recognized Victoria; she was, after all, the deputy manager of Quantum Core Technologies' investment department. Rumor had it she was having an affair with Mr. Garcia from Quantum Core. The gossip mill was running wild.
But what puzzled everyone was this: even if she was a friend's lover, why was Maynard—ever the consummate professional—treating her with such deference? When Mr. Garcia himself visited, Maynard certainly didn't roll out the red carpet.
A few curious heads peeked around corners, watching as Victoria settled into the lounge, quietly leafing through a financial magazine from the shelf while she waited for McNeil.
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