Found Obsession

Chapter 75: Checkmate

The room erupted into whispers and wide-eyed stares as Jonathan leaned in to press a kiss to Rose's forehead. Her heart raced, and for a moment, the world narrowed to just him, the heat of his words curling around her like smoke.

"To you, I am anything but 'sir,'" he murmured, his voice low and intimate.

Rose blinked, momentarily forgetting the sea of people around them. The warmth on her forehead where his lips had brushed lingered, sending butterflies through her stomach. She quickly gathered herself, breaking into a wry smile.

"Okay, you got me. This was more than I expected. You could've just said so!" she accused.

Jonathan's grin widened, his green eyes sparkling with mischief. "But then I wouldn't have gotten to see that look on your face," he quipped, his tone teasing yet charming.

Rose found herself smiling wider, caught in the spell of his humor and presence. But the moment shattered when Lucas muttered from behind her, "Lieutenant General? That sounds... important."

"Very important," Raven added, his voice uncertain as he exchanged glances with Lucas.

Rose turned toward them, cheeks slightly flushed as reality came crashing back. The atmosphere had shifted completely. Riley's expression, however, stole her attention-he looked like he had just been punched. His pale complexion and wide eyes screamed disbelief.

The room seemed to hold its breath as the exchange unfolded. Teresa's surprise was palpable as she asked, "You two know each other?"

Rose turned to Jonathan, unsure of how he would respond.

"Oh, that's another surprise for another moment, Mrs. Greco," Jonathan replied smoothly, his tone polite but firm.

Teresa's smile faltered slightly, her composure wavering. "Teresa," she corrected. "Please, call me Teresa."

Jonathan inclined his head graciously. "Of course."

The introductions continued as the others quickly followed suit. "Mira," "Frank," "Riley," "Lucas," and "Raven" each offered their first names, their voices varying from curious to uneasy.

"Please, call us by our first names," Teresa added, attempting to break the lingering tension.

Jonathan nodded again, his posture relaxed but commanding.

As the room fell into a brief silence, Rose felt the weight of everyone's gaze on her. Her eyes flickered to Jonathan, who was watching her with a subtle but expectant expression. It was as if he was waiting for something-an acknowledgment, perhaps, or a sign.

Rose cleared her throat, embarrassed by the sudden attention. "Yes, Adler?" she asked, her voice betraying a hint of hesitation.

Jonathan's lips curved into a faint smile. "What shall you wish me to call you?" he asked, his voice steady and deliberate, his gaze pinning her in place.

Rose's heart skipped a beat, and her eyes darted nervously to the others in the room. Feeling the heat of their collective curiosity, she coughed lightly, trying to compose herself.

"Uh... Hansley is fine," she said, her tone awkward but resolute.

Jonathan's smile deepened, his amusement clear.

Jonathan turned to the group, his presence commanding but approachable. "It appears we're all around the same age, so please, call me Jonathan. Or 'sir,' if you prefer," he said with a subtle smile.

The team nodded in acknowledgment, though the atmosphere remained thick with tension.

"It's a pleasure to meet you all. As I understand, two of your teammates are currently on their honeymoon," Jonathan continued, his tone professional.