Chapter 2 - Unbroken Gaze

Josie stood up slowly, clutching the handle of her broom like a lifeline. Her head stayed bowed in fear, her heart pounding against her ribs as she stared at the expensive leather shoes approaching her.
Dominic walked up to her, his intense gaze scrutinizing every detail of her pale face and simple black maid dress.
"Look at me," Dominic commanded softly, yet the authority in his tone left no room for disobedience.
"I... I am sorry, sir," Josie whispered, her voice trembling, her eyes remaining fixed on the floor.
Bernadette, the stoic head housekeeper standing near the staircase, subtly shook her head, recalling the strict rule she had drilled into Josie earlier that morning: Never look away when the Boss speaks, or you won't survive the night.
Remembering her sick son lying in a hospital bed, Josie swallowed her terror. She slowly lifted her chin and met Dominic’s piercing dark eyes directly.
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Dominic froze. For the first time in years, a servant wasn't shrinking away or trembling in submission. He saw raw, unwavering determination shining behind her tears.
👉 Why did Josie’s defiant look startle the most feared man in the city?