chapter322
Thalassa’s expression remained unreadable as she looked at Leopold. “You speak of him with a surprising level of certainty.”
“We’ve moved in the same circles since childhood,” Leopold replied, his tone shifting to a more serious note. He was searching for a topic that would keep Thalassa from leaving, and he knew her professional life currently revolved around Lysander Sinclair. “His exterior is formidable, even cold, but that demeanor is a shield forged from a complex history. Knowing the terrain might help you navigate your work more effectively.”
Thalassa hesitated, then curiosity won out. “A shield? What do you mean?”
Leopold sighed, looking out the window. He spoke of the heavy legacy Lysander carried—the sudden and tragic loss of his parents during his early years. The events had left Lysander an orphan, raised under the strict, high-pressure expectations of his grandparents.
Thalassa felt a jolt of genuine empathy. The man she saw every day—the one who held absolute power over his corporate empire—had started his life in a state of profound vulnerability.
“So, he was raised with the singular focus of leadership?” Thalassa asked.
“Exactly,” Leopold confirmed. “But that loss also left him with a deep-seated distrust of those who leave or betray his confidence. He values loyalty above all else.”
As the conversation turned back to Thalassa, Leopold’s gaze softened with worry. “Thalassa, you mentioned a partner previously. Is that still... a factor in your life?”
“My personal life is settled, Leopold,” Thalassa replied, her tone calm and final. “I’ll ensure your items are returned once they are ready. You needn't worry about the logistics.”
She stepped out of the car before he could press further, her stride purposeful as she headed home. Leopold watched her go, a sense of distance growing between them that no amount of shared history could bridge.
Monday morning saw Thalassa at the Sinclair Group earlier than usual. She parked her modest vehicle and headed to the executive floor. Finding Lysander’s office still empty, she used the time to prep the day’s files, the details of Leopold’s story still echoing in her mind.