Chapter 58

• The Ashford Group cafeteria was a hub of activity during the midday lunch rush. Valerie surveyed the bustling scene, feeling slightly out of place as the newest addition to the company's ranks. At least she had the comforting presence of Alejandro, Michael's personally assigned bodyguard, seated across from her.
• To avoid any unwanted scrutiny on her first day, Valerie had introduced Alejandro as her executive assistant to any curious co-workers. The imposing man's dark suit and permanently furrowed brow certainly sold the part of an overly attentive personal aide. Though she noticed his sharp eyes constantly scanning their surroundings for any potential threats.
• As if on cue, a willowy young girl who looked barely out of her teens approached their table, clutching her tray with white-knuckled hands. Valerie watched as Alejandro immediately tensed, his hand twitching ever so slightly towards his jacket lapel before catching her warning glance. The bodyguard stilled, simply watching warily as the newcomer hovered by Valerie's side.