Ella's POV.

“Sir,” the receptionist blurted, straightening so quickly that I almost laughed. Her polished attitude from moments ago had now vanished completely. I wanted to smirk at the sight of that, but I held it in.

“I asked you a question, Jane.”

His voice was calm, but there was enough authority behind it to make her stiffen.

“Since when do you decide who gets turned away and who gets to see me?” He narrowed his eyes at her. “You know the protocol. You call my office, and I decide who I see. Not you.”

She swallowed hard and dropped her gaze to the floor, suddenly looking like she wished...