Chapter 2 A GLIMPSE OF THE PAST

Alex walked into the kitchen, his eyes scanning the room for any signs of life. He spotted Maya standing by the counter, expertly chopping vegetables for lunch. Her dark hair was tied up in a neat ponytail, and her bright brown eyes sparkled as she worked.

As he watched her, memories flooded his mind. He remembered the day he'd first met Maya, back in high school. She'd been this shy, introverted girl who'd caught his eye with a quirky smile and infectious laugh. He recalled the way he had pursued her, determined to make her his girlfriend. But she'd rejected him, citing reasons he couldn't understand. The rejection had stung, and Alex had vowed to never let anyone hurt him like that again.

Now as he gazed at Maya, he felt a mix of emotions: Anger, hurt, and -seated desire for revenge. He'd been waiting for the perfect moment to strike, and now that she was working for his mother, he had the upper hand. "Maya" His voice was low and smooth, keeping a serene expression."I see you're settling in well".

Maya turned, a hint of weariness in her eyes. "Yes Mr. Alex, your mother has been kind to me".

Alex smiled his eyes glinting with amusement "Stop being so formal Maya, please call me Alex".

Maya froze, her cheeks slightly flushed, and then she nodded."Okay...Alex."

As they stood there, the air thick with tension, Alex knew that this was just the beginning. He would make Maya pay for rejecting him and he would enjoy every moment of it.