Dale and Ella stared at each other quietly in the office, staring at each other.
He was waiting for a reply, while she was... lost in thought.
Finally, Ella spoke, her voice low. "I understand what you're asking." She paused, pressing her palms flat against her knees. "I just want to hear it more clearly. Can you do that?"
Dale nodded once,and leaned back. He leaned back slightly in his chair, and repeated the words, "You'll be bait, Ella. There's no sugarcoating that."
He watched as her throat tightened, but she didn't flinch.
"You'll step into the role of a wealthy heiress who's broken away from her family. Until now, Adam has kept things under wrap. Once you agree, he will take his protection away. And you'll make waves — reckless spending, bad headlines, whispered scandals. Just enough to get their attention without ruining your credibility. Let the rumors follow you here.
Ella shifted, and nodded, "And once they notice me?"
