Chapter 107

“Mr. Johnston, I’m being subtle now, but my actions could be far worse. If you’re so worried, why don’t you just take her away, or…” I glanced at Wayne and continued, “Maybe I should assign someone to babysit her around the clock?”

Jace didn’t catch the hint. “Sure, if you’re watching her, I’d feel even better.”

“Not happening. I have better things to do,” I snapped, hanging up.

Tanya interjected, “You don’t have to be so hostile. I can take care of myself.”

“Ms. Twain, you have all your limbs and a working brain, so yes, I believe you can. But accidents happen unexpectedly,” I said, noticing Demi trying to stifle her laughter.

“Mr. Johnston suggested on the call that someone should be with you constantly. Although, I don’t think 24/7 is necessary. After all, when you’re sleeping, only someone close can truly protect you, right?” I added pointedly.

I used to feel sympathy for her after Desmond’s death, but now I understood the saying, “Not everyone who seems pitiful is innocent.”

Turning to Wayne, I said, “Mr. Johnston, since you and Ms. Twain are both new here, why don’t you two familiarize yourselves with the amusement park grounds together? And ensure her safety while you’re at it.”

Wayne looked shocked. “Rea, you—”

“Mr. Johnston,” I interrupted, “In the company, you’re the Executive Director, my superior. But here, I’m the project lead. Everyone in this park follows my orders.”

This was special authority Jace had granted me at the project’s outset, unused until now, with the project nearing completion.

Wayne was speechless, and Tanya’s face flushed crimson.

“I don’t need it. I can handle my own safety,” Tanya insisted.

How could she not know Wayne and Jace are brothers? Flirting with Jace while constantly around Wayne—if that didn’t bother her, she must be worried about Jace overthinking it if he ever found out.

“I’ve already said accidents happen. And besides, he’s not just here to protect you—it’s part of his duties. Ms. Twain, don’t overthink this,” I said firmly, leaving her no escape.

Tanya was speechless, turning to Wayne for support. But he remained silent, merely agreeing, “Alright, I’ll follow your instructions.”

That was the final blow, silencing Tanya.

“Alright, everyone, back to work,” I commanded.

Tanya was clearly angry but complied. As she walked away, I overheard her whispering to Wayne, “How could you agree to this? She’s obviously trying to humiliate us!”

“You’re overthinking it. She’s just doing her job and doesn’t want you to get hurt,” Wayne replied, causing me to chuckle quietly.

But that small victory brought a pang of guilt. Perhaps I shouldn’t have vented my frustration with Jace and Tanya on Wayne.

Then again, he chose to be here.

“Keira, that was epic,” Demi said, giving me a thumbs-up.

“Get back to work, or I’ll make you Ms. Twain’s 24-hour babysitter,” I teased playfully.

She quickly shook her head and returned to her work. “I’m on it. Working super hard!”

As everyone dispersed, my assertive demeanor faded. The more assertive I’d been, the tighter and more bitter my chest felt. It wasn’t enough for Jace to hurt me—now he had to add insult to injury by bringing Tanya here to torment me.

Did he think I hadn’t been humiliated enough? That I hadn’t suffered enough?

Suddenly, the light dimmed, and a hand appeared before me, obscuring my vision. Just as I was about to push it away, Hayden’s voice came from beside me, “You handled that well.”

He moved his hand, revealing a lollipop.

I looked up at him. “A reward,” he simply said.