Chapter 479

Once Nathan had left, Evelyn assisted Theodore, whose entire body had gone numb, back to her office.

She carefully lowered him onto the leather sofa, ignoring the perspiration beading on her forehead as she immediately began examining his limbs.

Her medical training from Kingsley Medical Center served her well in moments like these.

"I'm alright, Ms. Carter."

Though paralyzed, Theodore managed slight movements. A lump formed in his throat seeing Evelyn's concern. "I apologize for causing you trouble."

"Don't apologize. You were protecting me." Evelyn knelt to massage his legs, her voice firm. "But never act so impulsively again."

"It wasn't impulsive."

With great effort, Theodore propped himself up. His intense gaze burned with determination. "I'd do it a thousand times over. No matter what happens, I'll always step between you and danger."

"Your bravery is commendable but foolish." Evelyn's voice trembled slightly. "Nathan has four years of special forces training. Today he showed mercy - if you weren't my secretary, he might have shattered every bone in your body."

"Let him try!" Theodore's voice cracked as he staggered to his feet, towering over her. "I don't care if he breaks me! I'd rather die than watch that monster lay hands on you again!"

Evelyn's breath caught as she met his tear-filled eyes.

Unnoticed by Theodore, tears streamed down his face, his numb nerves preventing him from feeling the wet trails on his cheeks.

"Look at you," Evelyn teased gently, reaching up to wipe his tears despite the tightness in her own throat. "My big, brave secretary, crying like a child."

Suddenly, Theodore wrapped one arm around her waist, pulling her close. His other hand pressed against the small of her back as he tried to draw his beloved employer into an embrace.

Evelyn stiffened, acutely aware of the storm of emotions radiating from him.

"Release me, Theodore." She pushed against his chest with surprising strength. "This isn't appropriate."

"Punish me however you see fit, Ms. Carter." His tear-stained face looked younger, vulnerable. The raw desperation in his voice was a calculated risk - shameful, but necessary when facing Evelyn's notorious emotional walls.

Her expression darkened as she pressed two fingers firmly against his sternum.

The still-weakened Theodore collapsed back onto the sofa.

"I know your intentions were pure," Evelyn said, her voice icy despite the conflicting emotions in her eyes. "Starting tomorrow, you're on mandatory leave for one week. Use the time to rest and... reconsider your position."

"Ms. Carter-" Theodore's heart plummeted.

"You've been emotionally compromised." She turned toward her desk, her tone final. "When you return, we'll discuss whether you can continue serving as my secretary."