The first time I walked into the mirrored lobby of TitanLux Enterprises, I knew I was out of my league.
The polished Italian marble floor mirrored every apprehensive step I took. Chandeliers in the style of art deco hung from ceilings thirty feet high. It was all screaming money. Strength and intimidation.
I held onto my resume as if it were a shield.
"Naomi Blake?" A receptionist chirped and smiled tightly as she eyed my cheap heels. You are five minutes ahead of schedule. For Mr. Westwood, being on time is important. "This will be noted."
Noted? Was this a military operation?
Nevertheless, I nodded and sat quietly, ignoring the trembling in my fingers. I had planned for it. I rehearsed every answer. I was ready. Almost.
Until I noticed him.
He stepped out of the elevator as if he owned the air. Tall, broad-shouldered, with sharp lines and a sharper silence. Dark suit. No tie. Wristwatch probably cost more than my annual rent. And those eyes are obsidian, calculating, and impossible.
Damien Westwood.
My possible future boss. My impending undoing.
He did not look at me at first. I passed with a nod to the receptionist. But, just before disappearing into the glass conference room, he turned. They locked eyes with me. A second. Perhaps two. Long enough for something to crackle in the air. Electricity? Recognition? I did not know.
Then he was gone. I could finally breathe again.
Ten minutes later, I was seated across from him, sweating under his stare.
"Miss Blake," he said, his voice velvety and frosty, "did you work for Hudson Events?"
"Yes," I responded. For three years. "I organized five luxury galas, two destination weddings, and a fundraiser for the mayor's re-election."
He turned a page on my resume. "Then you quit."
"I wanted more creative control."
He looked up, his gaze piercing. "Or did you just dislike taking orders?"
I blinked. "No, sir." "I work well with authority."
"Good." He leaned back. "Because I do not like repeating myself." My schedule is insane, and my expectations are unrealistic. I work late, travel without notice, and I do not trust anyone. Still interested?
I paused. Then I lifted my chin. "Yes."
He observed me. Silent. That silence lasted so long that I thought I was going to die.
Then he stood.
"You start Monday."