The morning sunlight streamed through the blinds of Seraphina's tiny apartment, but it did nothing to warm her mood. She sat at the edge of her bed, staring blankly at her phone, replaying the deep, commanding voice from last night.
"I think I can help… but everything comes with a price."
Then, just as she was trying to make sense of what to do next, her phone buzzed.
An unknown number. Hesitation froze her fingers. Part of her screamed to ignore it, to retreat to safety. But curiosity, and perhaps something darker, urged her to answer.
"Hello?" Her voice was cautious, steady despite the storm in her chest.
"Ms. Lark," the deep, smooth voice said. Her pulse jumped. The man from the gala. "I have a proposal."
Her mind raced. A business offer? A loan? Or something… else?
"I… I'm listening," she said, trying to mask the nervousness creeping into her voice.
"There's a position available in my company," he explained, his tone calm, precise, almost unreadable. "A temporary assistant role. I will cover your debts, provide housing and a steady income, but you must follow my rules. No questions about business matters. No interference. Are you interested?"
Her stomach knotted. It was tempting, yes, but the way he spoke, as if the terms were absolute, sent shivers down her spine.
"I… I need time to think," she said cautiously.
"You have until tomorrow," he replied. The line went dead before she could respond.
Seraphina set the phone down, feeling the weight of the decision pressing on her chest. It wasn't just a job; it was a world she didn't belong to, a life she could barely imagine. And yet, the idea of financial relief, a chance to breathe, was irresistible.
⸻
By the next morning, she found herself standing before the towering skyscraper that housed Draven Crowe's empire. Her heart raced, the cold morning wind doing nothing to calm it. The polished glass doors reflected a version of herself she barely recognized, nervous, unsure, yet daringly bold enough to take this step.
The elevator ride was silent, each floor bringing her closer to the unknown. When the doors opened, she was greeted by a soft, golden glow and the faint hum of activity. And there he was. Draven Crowe. Standing as though he had been expecting her all along.
"Good morning," he said, his voice smooth, controlled. "I hope you've made your decision."
"I… I'm willing to try," she said, her words tentative but firm.
A faint smirk appeared at the corner of his lips, almost imperceptible. "Good. I don't tolerate mistakes. But if you succeed… you'll be well-rewarded."
He turned sharply, gesturing for her to follow. Every step he took exuded authority; every glance seemed to measure her worth, silently evaluating whether she belonged in his world.
The office was vast, sleek, and intimidating. Walls of glass gave a panoramic view of the city skyline, the sunlight catching on polished marble and steel. Employees moved briskly, their eyes darting respectfully toward Draven as he passed. Seraphina felt like an intruder, acutely aware of her modest dress and uncertain steps.
Draven led her to a small, private office. It was sparsely furnished, but immaculate. A large desk dominated the space, with a few leather chairs and a floor-to-ceiling window overlooking the bustling city below.
"Here's your workspace," he said simply. "You'll start with reviewing company correspondence and scheduling meetings. Mistakes aren't tolerated, but efficiency is rewarded. Do you understand?"
"Yes," Seraphina replied, her voice steadier than she felt.
He studied her for a long moment, his eyes sharp and unreadable. "Good. You may leave for now. Tomorrow, we start proper training."
As she left the office, Seraphina's mind raced. This was more than a job; it was a deal with a man whose intentions she couldn't read, a deal that would change everything about her life. And somehow, even though she knew it was dangerous, she couldn't wait to see what came next.
Back at her apartment that evening, Seraphina sat by the window, the city lights casting soft glows on her face. She sipped her tea, reflecting on the day. She had survived her first encounter with Draven Crowe without any major mistakes but she knew the real challenge was only beginning.
And deep down, she knew she was already drawn into his orbit, whether she wanted to be or not.