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I smile. “So much.”

But I lean back into him anyway.

And I know I’ll never leave.

Chapter 20 – Calista

“I’m not using Windows. I need a MacBook.”

My arms are crossed, spine stiff, eyes locked on Lazaro like he’s just offended every functioning neuron in my brain. His study smells like leather, smoke, and arrogance. He’s lounging in that oversized chair like a king on his throne, swirling a glass of whiskey like he’s immune to my protests.

No reaction. Just those dark, infuriating eyes lifting to meet mine as he says, flatly,

"You need discipline."

“Discipline has nothing to do with basic computer functionality.”

“You’re talking back to me over a laptop.”

“Correction,” I say, lifting a finger. “I’m talking back to you over my mental health.”

His lips twitch subtly, like he’s biting back a grin—or maybe a lecture. Hard to tell with him. "You’ll survive without a MacBook."

“No,” I deadpan. “I’ll suffer. Slowly. Tragically. Until one day you find me face-down in a pile of corrupted Word files and regret.”

He lifts his glass in a mocking toast. “A noble death.”

“Ugh.” I toss my hands up. “Lazaro, I’m serious. I need a MacBook with proper encryption and processing speed, not whatever antique Dell you’ve got stashed in the corner over there like it’s the Holy Grail.”

“Stop insulting my machines.”

“Then stop insulting my standards.”

A beat passes between us —like a duel without swords. He raises a brow. I raise both.

Finally, he sighs and glances at Ethan, who’s been standing quietly like he’s watching a very dramatic soap opera unfold. “Take her. Ten minutes. No detours.”

I smirk, victorious. "See? That wasn’t so hard."

“I already regret it.”

“You’ll live.”

He pins me with a glare. “Argue again and I’ll revoke it.”

“You wouldn’t dare.”

“Try me.”

I huff and turn to leave, but his voice stops me at the door.

“One more thing,” Lazaro says, his voice clipped. "If she refuses the guards, she’s not going." He looks at Ethan, who’s already anticipating the next command. "Two guards go with her."

I whirl back around. "What? Lazaro, come on. Two guards? I’m going to an electronics store, not a war zone."

He leans back, completely unbothered. "Then you’ll have company on your little Apple pilgrimage."

“I’m going to look like a criminal."