Yes and he backtracks

Mike caught the subtle shift in her posture instantly—the sudden tension in her shoulders, the wide, conflicted look in her green eyes, and the way her breath hitched. Recognizing he had pushed his luck too far too fast, he smoothly pivoted, stepping back half a pace to give her room.

"Hey, woah—look at me, Maya," Mike said, softening his voice into a warm, paternal tone and holding his hands up in a gentle gesture. "I’m sorry, I didn't mean to overwhelm you. Forget I said that. Honestly, you should talk it all over with Leo first. He’s your partner, and his opinion comes before anything else."

The sudden release of pressure sent a wave of instant relief through Maya, her tense shoulders dropping as she let out a breath she hadn't realized she was holding.

Mike leaned against the edge of the counter, looking at her with an expression of pure, earnest support. "I just want to see you up in lights, Maya," he said, his voice dripping with quiet sincerity. "You are stunningly beautiful, and a girl like you deserves the absolute world. I just want to make sure you get this opportunity, and I’m willing to do whatever it takes to help you land it. If that means stepping back, taking things slow, and making sure you and Leo are comfortable every step of the way, then that's exactly what we'll do. I just want you to shine."

Maya’s heart melted. Any lingering doubts or prickles of alarm vanished in an instant, replaced by a deep swell of gratitude. Hearing him speak so selflessly—putting her comfort and her relationship first—reaffirmed her belief that Mike was truly just a kind, protective neighbor who believed in her.

"Thank you, Mike," Maya said softly, a bright, genuine smile returning to her face as her cheeks flushed pink. "That really means a lot to me. You've been so amazingly sweet today. I'll definitely talk to Leo tonight and tell him everything about the agency and the meeting!"

"That's my girl," Mike said with a warm, approving nod, secretly pleased with how seamlessly he had regained her complete trust. "You talk to Leo, and we'll take it from there." With a final, encouraging pat on her shoulder, telling her goodbye and stepped out into the hallway, leaving Maya standing in her quiet kitchen, her head spinning with excitement for the future.