The Dominants Game

Chapter 56

Queen to Rook

Two weeks before the election, the atmosphere at the campaign headquarters was thick with tension. Everyone was on edge, but amidst the chaos, Rosetta found a moment to speak with Mattheo privately.

"Mattheo," she began, her voice soft but steady. "I wanted to take a moment to thank you for everything you've done. Your diligence and hard work have been invaluable."

Mattheo looked up from the documents he was reviewing, his expression a mix of surprise and curiosity. "Thank you, Mrs. Malfoy. That means a lot."

Rosetta smiled, reaching into her bag and pulling out a small envelope. "I also wanted to give you this. It's a vacation package for you and your family. I thought it would be a nice way for you to relax and unwind after the election. You deserve it."

Mattheo took the envelope, his eyes widening in surprise. "Rosetta, this is incredibly generous. Thank you."

She nodded, her eyes filled with sincerity. "You deserve it, Mattheo. You've been an amazing asset to this campaign, and I can't thank you enough for your dedication."

There was a brief silence as Mattheo looked at the envelope, clearly touched by the gesture. Finally, he spoke, his voice a bit softer. "I appreciate this, Rosetta. Truly."

Rosetta took a deep breath, preparing to broach another topic. "Mattheo, I also wanted to talk to you about the future. I know that staying on as my assistant might seem beneath you, but I would really like you to consider continuing to work with me. Your expertise and support have been invaluable, and I need someone I can trust by my side."

Mattheo's expression grew conflicted, his brow furrowing slightly. "Rosetta, I'm flattered. Really. And I do care about this campaign and your success. But... it's a lot to consider."

"I understand," she said gently. "Just know that whatever you decide, I value you and your contributions immensely. Take your time to think it over. We still have a bit of time before the election."

Mattheo nodded, his gaze thoughtful. "I'll give it some thought and let you know when the time approaches."

Rosetta reached out and placed a hand on his arm, her touch warm and reassuring. "Thank you, Mattheo. For everything. No matter what you decide, you'll always have my respect and gratitude."

He gave her a small, appreciative smile. "Thank you, Rosetta. That means a lot."

With that, they returned to their respective tasks, the tension of the upcoming election still present, but now accompanied by a renewed sense of appreciation and understanding.

The Rooks Inner Voice

Mattheo watched as Rosetta walked away, returning to her tasks. His expression remained composed, but inside, his thoughts churned with complexity.

I've done my best to keep my emotions in check, but damn it, it's hard. Working so closely with her every day, seeing her strength, her dedication—it's impossible not to feel something more.

He glanced down at the envelope in his hand, the weight of her generosity settling over him. She genuinely values my work. She sees me as an asset, someone important. That's something I haven't felt in a long time. But it's also why it's so difficult.

I came into this campaign wanting to make a difference, to prove myself. And I have. But with Rosetta, it's different. It's personal. She's not just a candidate; she's a woman I've come to admire deeply. Maybe too deeply.

Mattheo sighed, running a hand through his hair. She trusts me, relies on me. And that makes it even harder. How can I stay professional when every interaction feels charged with unspoken tension? When every look, every touch, feels like it carries a deeper meaning?