The Ice Queen's Redemption

**chapter twelve -victors entry**

The next morning, Victoria found herself lingering over breakfast, contemplating what had transpired the previous evening. Victor had brought a warmth into her life that she hadn't realized was missing. As they sat across from each other, sipping coffee, she cleared her throat, breaking the comfortable silence."Victor, I've been thinking," she began, her voice tentative yet resolute. "Would you consider joining Hale Enterprises as a manager?"Victor looked surprised but pleased. "I... I would be honored, Victoria. Thank you for considering me."They discussed the details over breakfast, and by the end of the meal, it was settled. Victor would join Hale Enterprises in a managerial role, starting in two days.

Victor said ," I'd love to work with you. Victoria." Victoria replied . Then he went to Victoria and said," I don't want to make it obvious but I love you Victoria. Victoria replied," but I don't even know who you are." He said, I don't care I just love you. From the day I woke up and saw you I liked you." Victoria replied," victor I never loved anyone except my family and Emma". And then she told him to get ready for shopping.

Victoria and Victor spent the rest of that day preparing for his new role at Hale Enterprises. She decided to take him shopping to ensure he looked his best. They headed to an upscale boutique in the city, where Victoria seemed to know every salesperson by name.

"We need to get you some proper business attire," Victoria said with a smile as they entered the store. "You need to look at the part of a manager at Hale Enterprises."

Victor couldn't help but feel a bit overwhelmed as Victoria led him from one section to another, selecting shirts, suits, ties, and shoes with an expert eye. She made sure he tried on everything, giving her opinion on each outfit.

"This one really brings out the color in your eyes," she said, adjusting the collar of a dark blue suit jacket.

Victor chuckled. "Victoria, I think you bought out half the store."

"Nonsense," she replied with a wink. "I just want you to be prepared."

After hours of shopping, they finally returned home with bags upon bags of new clothes. Victor was grateful for Victoria's generosity and attention to detail. He couldn't remember the last time someone had taken such an interest in his well-being.

Two days later, the morning of Victor's first day at Hale Enterprises arrived. He dressed in one of his new suits, feeling both excited and nervous. Victoria watched him with a proud smile as he adjusted his tie.

"You look perfect," she said, giving him a quick kiss. "Remember, if you need anything, just come to my office." Victor started to blush. Then quickly ran towards Victoria like a baby following his mother.

As they drove to the office together, Victor felt a sense of anticipation. He was eager to see Victoria in her professional element. Upon entering the grandiose Hale Enterprises building, he noticed a shift in her demeanor. The warm, affectionate woman he had breakfast with had transformed into someone else entirely.

Victoria strode into the building with an air of authority, her expression cold and determined. Employees snapped to attention as she passed, offering quick, respectful nods. Victor struggled to reconcile the two sides of her.

In her office, Victoria was all business. She introduced Victor to his team, her tone firm and commanding. "This is Victor. He will be joining us as a manager. I expect you to treat him with the same respect you afford me."

Victor could sense the tension in the room. The employees clearly respected Victoria, but there was also an undercurrent of fear. As the day progressed, he observed her in meetings, making swift, decisive decisions without a hint of hesitation. She was efficient and demanding, her expectations clear and unwavering.

During lunch, Victor caught a glimpse of the other side of Victoria again when they had a private moment in her office. She smiled at him, her eyes softening. "How's your first day going?"

"It's... intense," Victor admitted. "You're amazing, Victoria. But you're so different here."

She sighed, a hint of vulnerability crossing her face. "I have to be. Hale Enterprises requires a certain level of ruthlessness. But it doesn't change how I feel about you."

Victor reached out, taking her hand. "I understand. And I'll support you in any way I can."

Victoria's eyes softened, but the moment was brief. She quickly regained her composure, her professional mask slipping back into place. "Thank you, Victor. Now, let's get back to work."

As the day ended, Victor reflected on the duality of Victoria's nature. He admired her strength and determination, even if it meant she had to be a different person at work. He knew it would take time to fully understand her, but he was committed to standing by her side, both in her warm moments and in her cold, merciless ones.