I slapped my billionaire boss in the middle of his company's anniversary party. Everyone gasped. He simply touched his cheek and asked, “Are you done, or should I give you another reason to hate me?” I was furious. For two years, Alexander had made my life miserable. He criticized my work, rejected my leave requests, and acted as though nobody could tell him no. But nobody knew that he was also the man who had secretly paid my younger brother's hospital bills. I discovered the truth that afternoon. When I confronted him, he admitted it. “Why didn't you tell me?” I demanded. “Because you would have felt indebted to me.” “So you decided to control my life instead?” “No. I decided to stay close enough to help you.” I stared at him, my anger mixing with confusion. “Why do you care so much about me?” He looked away. “Because every morning, I find myself looking forward to seeing you. Because I remember your smile long after you've left my office. Because I have fired three assistants for gossiping about you, and none of them knew the real reason.” My heart began racing. “Alexander…” He stepped closer. “I love you, Clara.” I couldn't speak. Then he added, “But I know you hate me, so forget I said anything.” He walked away. That evening, I found him standing outside in the pouring rain, holding an umbrella over a small box. Inside was a ring. He looked at me and said, “I know I'm the last man you'd ever choose.” Then he dropped to one knee. “But Clara, will you give me one chance to become the man you deserve?” Before I could answer, a woman stepped out of the building behind him. She looked at the ring and screamed, “Alexander! You promised you would marry ME!”