Chapter 3: Boundaries in Public and Private

Michael would never embarrass me in front of others. He’s always known how to control his emotions, so he suggested we go home. If there’s a problem, we solve it privately. That’s been our unspoken rule for years.

Our relationship was built on quiet boundaries—public appearances meant everything. We both knew the cost of making a scene in our circles.

“She’s just out of college, just starting her career. Why take it out on her?” Michael pulled me into his arms, his embrace familiar and warm, threatening to melt my anger.

“It’s the first time.”

He frowned. “What is?”

“After all these years, it’s the first time you’ve let another woman sit in your passenger seat.”

He hadn’t realized that’s what mattered.

Everyone knows how impressive Michael is. He’s always kept things professional, surrounded by temptation but never letting it get close. Boundaries weren’t just rules—they were armor. I’d always loved that about him. Until now.

Michael smiled faintly, ruffling my hair.

“So you do get jealous.”

He leaned in, kissed me, his nose brushing my cheek. “She’s just my assistant. That’s all. There will never be anything else between us.”

He cupped my face, his eyes steady. For a moment, I wanted to believe him completely.