Maggie turned to Sanford.

“Are you seriously considering buying my uncle's factory?"

Lowering his gaze to her, Sanford responded, “Would you rather I don't? If I don't buy it, he'll continue using your parents’ jobs as leverage."

Maggie's heart pounded.

Meeting Sanford's dark gaze, she found herself unable to hold his stare.

“I can't repay such a monumental favor.”

His gaze softening at her trembling Lashes, Sanford murmured, “I'm not looking for repayment. Consider this my apology to you."

An apology?

But he hadn't wronged her, had he?

Maggie almost voiced her thoughts, but thought better of it.

The lingering warmth on her shoulder made her acutely aware of

Sanford's hold on her.

She quickly stepped out of his grasp.

“I have work to do. I should get back to it."

Noting her discomfort, Sanford let out a sigh.

"Brian, our Lunch break is over. I've got other matters to attend to. I must be going now.”

Brian watched him Leave, an understanding look in his eyes.

As the elevator doors closed, another set opened up, revealing Hutton and Karl.

Seeing Maggie about to enter the office, Karl called out to her Sanford, who was about to disappear into the elevator, froze.

He watched as Karl approached the office with long strides.

Simultaneously, a smiling Maggie made her way to him.

“Karl, what brings you here?"