"Adeline, Mr. Elias wants to see you," Nathan said, poking his head into her office.
Adeline looked up from her screen, blinking. "Me?"
Nathan nodded. "Now."
She stood, smoothing nonexistent creases from her skirt. "Did he say what for?"
"Nope. Just said to come up."
Top Floor – Elias's Office
He didn't look up when she knocked.
"Come in."
Adeline stepped in, heart pounding. "You wanted to see me?"
Elias finally lifted his gaze. "Yes. You've been assigned to accompany me to the Singapore branch review next week."
Her eyes widened. "I'm sorry… what?"
"You're competent," he said matter-of-factly. "You've shown initiative. I need someone reliable to manage paperwork and coordinate with the local staff."
"But—overseas?"
He arched an eyebrow. "Is there a problem?"
"No, it's just… sudden."
"You'll have your itinerary by tonight. We'll go over the travel brief tomorrow. Pack for five days."
She hesitated. "Why me?"
He leaned back, folding his arms. "You work hard. You don't complain. And—you don't flirt with me."
Adeline blinked. "Is that… a compliment?"
"It's a reason. Don't overanalyze it."
She crossed her arms. "Are you always this charming when giving assignments?"
He paused. "I try not to be."
Later – Break Room
Charlotte nearly dropped her coffee. "You're going where?"
"Singapore," Adeline muttered, sipping her tea.
"With Mr. Germophobe Elias?"
"Yes."
Charlotte grinned. "Girl. You are living dangerously."
"He said it's because I don't flirt with him."
Charlotte burst out laughing. "That's basically a marriage proposal in Elias-speak."
Adeline rolled her eyes. "It's a work trip, Charlotte."
Charlotte smirked. "Oh yeah? And the Titanic was just a boat ride."