Chapter 104

“Wayne, what’s going on?”

Even though I suspected the answer the moment I saw him in uniform, I couldn't help but ask. The entire situation was so absurd it felt like a joke. Seriously? Was Hayden's presence in my life such a big deal that the entire Johnston family had to get involved?

Wayne had been working abroad for years. Wasn't he supposed to be returning overseas? How had he ended up at Riverwave Corp? Was he staying for good?

“I’m here to work, Ms. Kay. I look forward to your guidance,” Wayne said calmly, extending his hand.

Though completely surprised, I shook his hand, our fingers barely touching. “Welcome, Way—”

I stopped, unsure how to address him. Now that he was officially my superior, “Wayne” felt too informal.

“You can still call me Wayne,” he said, smiling warmly.

“Mr. Johnston, during work hours, it’s best to maintain professional formalities. That’s the CEO’s policy,” I said, using Jace as a shield.

I didn't know who had orchestrated Wayne's arrival, but I was certain Jace was involved. He was CEO, after all. A random employee might have escaped his notice, but not Wayne.

Wayne's straightforward answer confirmed my suspicions: “Executive Director.”

I blinked. I’d never heard of that position at Riverwave Corp.

Wayne continued, “I’m temporarily overseeing the amusement park's completion. I also specialize in electrical engineering, so I can assist with your current issues.”

I resisted rolling my eyes. Wayne's “assistance” was clearly a pretext; he was here to monitor Hayden and me. Both he and Jace wanted to prevent any involvement between Hayden and me.

“This is perfect. Ms. Kay and I were discussing accelerating the project last night. With you here, we should finish even sooner,” Hayden said, strolling over as if Wayne's arrival was unremarkable.

I shot Hayden a confused look. He met my gaze and said, “Let’s get started.”

He then addressed Wayne: “Since it’s your first day, familiarize yourself with our workflow and current challenges. You're an expert; once you're up to speed, we can divide the work. I’ll partner with Ms. Kay, and you can work with Ms. Young.”

I stared, stunned. Was this a power play? Hayden had just assigned Wayne's tasks, effectively preventing any chance Wayne might have had to keep tabs on me and Hayden.

It hit me then—Hayden, with his serious demeanor, was far more shrewd and calculating than I’d realized.

Wayne's lips twitched, as if he wanted to speak, but Hayden didn't give him the opportunity. He turned back to me immediately. “Let’s get to work.”

With that, I had nothing left to say. I nodded to Wayne and followed Hayden. Even without looking back, I sensed Wayne's gaze on me.

The entire situation left me awkward and frustrated; a wave of annoyance surged within me. Jace had sent Wayne to prevent anything between Hayden and me, completely oblivious to Wayne’s possible feelings for me. If Jace ever found out, he’d be mortified by his own foolishness.

Lost in thought, I stumbled. Hayden’s arm caught me, pulling me against his chest. The clean scent of his soap filled my senses, and his deep voice whispered, “Watch where you’re going. Don’t let yourself get distracted.”