41. Keep thinking
Adele froze mid-sentence when her phone vibrated sharply on the desk.
She glanced at the caller ID…
Her eyes widened a little, ears twitching in that subtle werewolf way she could never hide from Marcelline.
Marcelline didn't look up from the document she was signing, but her voice carried quiet authority.
"Pick it up, Adele."
Adele nodded, quickly accepting the call.
Her tone shifted into that perfectly professional voice that only Marcelline could command from her:
"Yes, this is Adele speaking…"
A few seconds passed — Adele's expression turning from calm → focused → slightly irritated.
Not danger. Not supernatural. Just… corporate annoyance.
Finally she exhaled sharply through her nose.
"I see. I understand… yes, send the full file to my system. The CEO will review it."
She ended the call and turned back to Marcelline, bowing her head respectfully.
"I apologize, Lady Marcelline. That was the head of the European Sector Board. They've sent another request for an early meeting next week. They… still think you will be appearing publicly."
Marcelline's pen stopped.
A small smirk touched her lips — elegant, sarcastic, and slightly wicked.
"They can keep thinking."
Adele immediately nodded, almost proud.
"Of course. I already declined on your behalf. Politely. Firmly. Ruthlessly. In the way you prefer."
Marcelline glanced at her with amusement.
"Good girl."
Adele practically glowed at the praise — wolf ears perking, tail (which she usually hid) almost flicking in excitement.
"Thank you, Lady Marcelline. I live to serve."
Marcelline shook her head softly, returning to her files.
"You don't serve me, Adele. You work with me."
Adele's eyes softened — a rare, genuine smile crossing her face.
"And that is exactly why I'm devoted to you."
She placed a digital tablet in front of Marcelline.
"Here are the urgent documents requiring your signature. Production units of the Beta-7 robotics have spiked by 400%. Also, a new competitor tried replicating your neural-core design…"
Marcelline clicked the tablet open.
"And?"
Adele's smile turned sharp.
"They failed miserably. Their prototype exploded."
Marcelline laughed — low and melodic.
"As expected."
Adele stepped closer, almost proud, almost worshipful.
"Lady Marcelline… Fluxboat thrives only because of you. Even in your absence, your influence is everywhere."
Marcelline leaned back in her chair, crossing her legs gracefully.
"Good. That means I can remain invisible and still run the world."
Adele nodded, her voice dipping into reverence.
"Exactly as you wish."
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