Chapter 2 LOST IN THE WEB OF LUST

Note: Mature Content

(Rooster crows)

yawns "Urrrgh! It's morning again," I groaned, turning over in bed. "This rooster needs to be silenced," I muttered, frowning.

Dragging myself up, I shuffled to the bathroom for a quick shower. Minutes later, I stepped out, wrapped in a towel, and began dressing up. It was already a few minutes past seven. Hurriedly, I gathered my things and stumbled out of the house to hail a cab.

A nearly full taxi pulled up, and I squeezed in, instructing the driver to drop me off at Vienna Suites, Owerri-where I worked as a manager.

Working as a manager had been a rewarding experience, allowing me to meet many prominent people. As soon as I arrived, I strode into my office and began sorting documents, ensuring I had enough time to monitor the staff. Once done, I made my way to the kitchen to check on the chefs. Thankfully, there were no complaints.

Relieved, I walked down the hallway when a staff member approached me hesitantly.

"Excuse me, ma," she called out.

I stopped and turned to face her. She looked worried.

"Sorry to bother you, ma, but I have a small issue. It's about the customers in the VIP lodge."

I narrowed my eyes, already perplexed. "Okay, what's the issue?"

"Umm..." she hesitated, fidgeting.

"Go on," I urged, growing impatient.

"The guests ordered a bottle of 1945 Château Mouton Rothschild with a burgundy glass, but when I delivered it, the lady yelled at me, saying that wasn't what she ordered and told me to take it back. But, ma, it's already registered in the system."

Sighing, I felt both agitated and sympathetic toward the young girl. "Don't worry, I'll handle it. Just take the bottle to the barkeeper for now."

Her face instantly lit up with relief. "Thank you, ma!" she beamed, bowing slightly before hurrying off.

Meanwhile, I made my way to the VIP lodge to resolve the issue. I knocked, and a woman, slightly older than me, answered the door, gesturing for me to come in.

Politely, I declined and stated my purpose, specifically addressing Nora's report. She explained her concerns, and I offered a sincere apology on behalf of the hotel. Once the issue was settled, I turned and left, heading to other sections of the hotel for my routine checks.

By the time I returned to my desk, it was already noon. Exhausted, I placed a call to the kitchen, ordering a plate of Jeera Rice with grape juice.

A few minutes later, a staff member brought my meal-steaming hot. The sight alone made my stomach growl. Dismissing the staff quickly, I dug in like a starving horse.

Fully satisfied, I nudged the empty tray aside and refocused on my laptop, forcing myself to stop thinking about Jayson's perfect, sculpted face.

By the time I was done with work, it was already past 4 PM. Stretching, I dusted off my skirt, gathered my things, and walked out of the hotel to hail a cab.

Evening Routine

A few minutes later, a taxi pulled up. I hopped in, gave the driver my address, and sat back as the car zoomed off.

After what felt like forever, the driver finally dropped me at my street. I paid him and walked toward my gate, feeling drained. Letting out a deep sigh, I pushed the gate open, sluggishly made my way inside, and collapsed onto my L-shaped sofa.

Before I knew it, I drifted into a deep sleep.

When I woke up, it was already past nine. Stretching lazily, I headed for a shower, then returned to the kitchen to warm up some leftover food.

I ate quickly, then settled on the sofa, flipping through TV channels. Moments later, my phone beeped-a message from Jayson.

Jayson: Hey, how was your day?

A warm smile crept onto my lips. I missed him. Quickly, I typed back:

Me: Well... my day was a bit hectic. Staff complaints and all, but I'm good. What about you?

Jayson: My day was good too. Work's been hell, haven't slept a bit. Just wanted to check on you.

Jayson: A'ight... Goodnight, momma.

And with that, he went offline.

A strange feeling settled in my gut, but I ignored it. Maybe I was just being paranoid.

Grabbing the remote, I resumed watching TV, but soon my eyelids grew heavy. Deciding it was time for bed, I turned off the TV and headed to my room. Thankfully, there was power, meaning I could enjoy a long, uninterrupted sleep.

After saying my night prayers, I drifted off to my dreamland once again.

The Next Morning

(Rooster crows loudly)

Groans Urrrgh!!! Damn you, you two-legged, feathered creature!

I pulled the covers over my head, pleading for a few more minutes. Just as I was about to doze off again-BEEP! BEEP! BEEP!

My alarm clock buzzed ten times louder than the rooster. Irritated, I flung it across the room.

Resigned to my fate, I got up, tidied my bed, and went straight to the shower.

Minutes later, I emerged, dressed in a double-breasted suit, neatly arranged my hair, slipped on my black high-heel stilettos, and stormed out of the house.

Running late, I quickly ordered a taxi.

A Mysterious Encounter

When I arrived at Vienna Suites, I walked into the anteroom, my movements poised and graceful. Staff members greeted me warmly, and I returned their smiles as I made my way to my desk.

After instructing the janitor to tidy my office, I set out on my routine inspections around the hotel. Fortunately, there were no complaints from customers or staff.

As I made my way back to my office, a young man approached me.

He was light-skinned, tall, and undeniably handsome-the kind of man who oozed aristocratic charm. His well-tailored chinos pants and turtleneck emphasized his well-sculpted frame.

I could sense female staff ogling him from the corner of my eye, but I remained composed. Jayson already occupied my thoughts.

"Excuse me, Miss," he began, his deep voice smooth like velvet.

I stopped, giving him my full attention.

"Yes, please. How may I help you?"

He hesitated, studying me with surprise. Clearly, he wasn't expecting someone so young.

"I... um... I'm looking for the manager in charge. I was told I'd find her here."

I raised an eyebrow. "I am the manager."

Shock registered on his face. He quickly composed himself, clearing his throat.

"Oh... I see. Well, it's a pleasure to meet you. My name is Nathan. I just returned to the country for some business, and I need a suitable room for my stay. However, the hotel clerk told me the only available premium suite is already booked, and more so, she was quite rude. I think you should have a word with her."

I frowned at the complaint. "I'm so sorry about that, Nathan. I'll ensure you get a perfect room."

Nathan flashed a charming smile. "Thanks, I appreciate it. And please-no formalities. Just Nathan is fine."

"Noted." I forced a polite smile. "It's my job to ensure customers are treated well."

.He returned my smile, but there was something unreadable in his gaze.

What I didn't know was that this encounter would change my life in ways I never expected...

Without lingering, I turned toward the front desk, where Mabel and Jessica stood awkwardly, shifting on their feet.

I could feel their nervous energy before I even reached them. They already knew what was coming.

"Mabel, prepare Room 308 for Mr. Nathan," I instructed, keeping my voice steady but firm. "And you both should report to my office during lunch."

"Yes, ma'am," they mumbled in unison.

Turning on my heel, I made my way to the elevator. I pressed the button for the fourth floor, exhaling slowly as I waited for the doors to open. Just as they were about to close behind me, a strong hand reached in, stopping them.

Startled, I looked up.

"Nathan?" My brows lifted. "You scared me. I thought you were waiting in the anteroom."

He chuckled lightly, stepping inside. "Sorry about that. I just figured I'd check out the room myself."

I nodded, keeping a polite distance as the elevator hummed to life. The air between us felt slightly charged, though I couldn't tell if it was just my awareness of him or something else. His cologne-a subtle mix of cedarwood and spice-drifted into my space, mingling with the faint scent of fresh linen in the elevator.

The doors slid open, and I quickly stepped out, leading him down the hallway. At Room 308, I swiped the key card and pushed the door open, stepping aside to let him in first.

The room was pristine-subdued luxury in shades of cream and beige, with warm lighting that softened the space. The scent of freshly laundered sheets lingered in the air, and a sleek writing desk stood against the far wall, neatly arranged with a hotel stationery set.

Nathan glanced around, nodding in approval.

Then, before I could react, he turned back to me and-just for a second-leaned in, pressing a quick kiss to my cheek.

I froze.

He stepped back almost immediately, looking slightly sheepish. "I... I'm sorry. That was inappropriate."

I blinked, still processing the moment. Finally, I managed a small, controlled smile. "It's fine," I murmured.

The words felt automatic, but I wasn't sure if I meant them.

"Enjoy your stay, Nathan," I added before stepping out and shutting the door behind me.

Back at my desk, I barely had time to collect myself before Mabel and Jessica arrived for our meeting.

I wasted no time. "What happened earlier with the guest was unacceptable. If I ever see you treat a customer like that again, I will deduct ten percent from your salary."

Their eyes widened in alarm.

"We're really sorry, ma'am," Mabel stammered. "It won't happen again."

I nodded, satisfied. "Good. Now, get back to work."

As they hurried off, I let out a slow breath. My stomach grumbled, reminding me that I'd barely eaten all day. I placed an order with the kitchen for creamy mushroom chicken and maple juice, then focused on my laptop while I waited.

Twenty minutes later, a staff member brought my meal, and I ate quickly, savoring the warmth of the food. The afternoon passed in a blur of work, emails, and back-to-back phone calls.

When I finally checked the time, it was 5:17 PM.

"Shit," I muttered, grabbing my bag.

Luckily, I caught a cab easily and was home within fifteen minutes.

Stepping inside, I exhaled in relief.

The familiar scent of my apartment-faint lavender from the air freshener, a trace of vanilla from my scented candles-welcomed me. I slipped off my heels, sighing as my feet finally touched the cool tiled floor.

"Sheesh..." I muttered, tossing my handbag onto the couch.

After a few minutes of resting, I headed into the kitchen to prepare something simple for dinner. An hour later, with my stomach full and my energy restored, I grabbed my phone and settled onto the sofa.

Needing some music to unwind, I connected my Bluetooth speaker and scrolled through my playlist, settling on "Overloading" by Marvin Records. The beat was infectious, and I found myself swaying slightly as I scrolled through my WhatsApp messages.

Then, almost instinctively, I clicked on Jayson's chat.

I hesitated for a second before typing:

"Hey you... I miss hearing your voice."

A few minutes later, my phone vibrated with his reply.

Jayson: "Mmm. Miss you too, baby. When are you getting some time off?"

I smiled.

We went back and forth, and soon, a plan started forming. The only problem? He was in Abuja, while I was in Owerri.

But Jayson, being Jayson, didn't even let me finish worrying.

"Don't stress," he texted. "I'll handle everything."

My fingers hovered over the keyboard before I finally typed back:

"You're something else, Jay."

Two weeks later, I landed in Abuja.

The moment I stepped out of the arrivals terminal, my stomach fluttered.

And then I saw him.

Jayson stood near the exit, dressed in a fitted black shirt and dark jeans, exuding quiet confidence. His rich, dark skingleamed under the airport lights, and his golden-brown eyes locked onto mine with an intensity that sent a shiver through me.

He wasn't the kind of man you'd call "traditionally handsome," but he didn't need to be. His presence alone was enough to make women stop and stare.

As I walked toward him, he didn't say a word.

Instead, he reached for my suitcase with one hand-and with the other, he gently took my wrist, his thumb grazing my skin. The simple touch sent electricity shooting up my arm.

No rush. No words. Just that silent, undeniable pull.

In that moment, I knew.

This wasn't going to be just a trip.

It was going to be something much, much more.

Jayson guided me out of the airport and booked a cab to The Wells Carlton Hotel. As we arrived, I was in awe. Compared to Vienna Suites, where I worked, this place was a masterpiece-every inch of its architecture exuded luxury and sophistication. The towering structure, with its intricate glass designs and modern elegance, was a stark contrast to the simpler establishments I was used to.

We stepped into the grand anteroom, where uniformed hotel clerks stood poised behind marble counters. Jayson effortlessly booked us a suite, and a staff member led us upstairs, handing over a key card upon arrival. Without hesitation, Jayson took it, swiped the card, and pushed the door open. He gestured for me to step inside. I obeyed, my heart pounding as I crossed the threshold.

Turning to the staff, he said, "We're done here. You may leave."

The staff gave a quick nod before exiting, leaving us alone. Jayson shut the door behind him.

A sudden nervousness washed over me, making my palms sweaty. He settled into a plush U-shaped cloud sofa, his dark eyes burning into me with a devilish smirk. I exhaled softly, trying to keep my composure, and busied myself by placing my portmanteau and handbag into the closet next to the window. I needed a distraction-anything to calm the unrelenting tension coiling in the air. Without another glance at him, I grabbed my toiletries and slipped into the bathroom.

The warm shower soothed my nerves, but the moment I stepped out, tension struck again.

Dressed in a lemon camisole that hugged my curves, I stepped into the room. The moment Jayson's gaze landed on me, a slow, predatory smirk spread across his lips. His stare burned through my skin, and I pretended not to notice, though my body betrayed me.

He rose from the couch and walked toward me, his steps unhurried but deliberate. Though his skin glistened with sweat, he smelled intoxicating-like the woods after a summer rain, mixed with mandarin, cedar, and a hint of wild musk.My body tensed, my breath hitching as he closed the distance between us.

Just when I thought he was going to touch me, he smirked and veered off toward the bathroom.

I exhaled, only then realizing I'd been holding my breath.

Five minutes later, Jayson emerged, dressed in a sky-blue robe that clung to his muscular frame. The fabric strained against his biceps, and part of his sculpted torso remained exposed, demanding attention. My gaze involuntarily lingered.

Then, as if on cue, my stomach let out a low growl.

Jayson arched a brow before chuckling. "Pardon my manners, Miss Morgan."

He grabbed the hotel telephone and placed an order-Marinated Chicken, Scalloped Potatoes, and a bottle of Screaming Eagle Cabernet Sauvignon 1992 with two Schott Zwiesel Pure Cabernet Glasses.

Thirty minutes later, a staff member entered, placing the silver platter on the coffee table before quietly leaving. I took in the lavish spread, my eyes widening. The mere sight of the wine alone made my head spin-the price was probably ten times my salary.

Jayson noticed my expression and smiled. "Do you like it?"

"Of course, I do. I mean... this looks exquisite-and expensive," I admitted, still in awe.

He chuckled and lifted my chin gently. "It's nothing," he murmured. "Let's eat."

I nodded, suddenly feeling shy under his relentless gaze. Grabbing my plate, I started digging in.

By the time we finished, the tension in the air had only thickened.

Jayson placed a call for a staff member to clear the dishes. Within minutes, a young woman arrived, swiftly removing the empty platter. As soon as the door clicked shut behind her, I realized something-we were alone again.

And this time, it felt different.

I tried my best to avoid eye contact, but I could feel Jayson's stare scorching my skin. Then, without a word, he stood and crossed the room toward me. My breath hitched when he sat down-so close that I could feel his warmth seeping into my skin.

I cleared my throat and forced a small smile. "Thanks for the meal. I really enjoyed it."

He nodded, his gaze never wavering. "I missed you."

The words sent a shiver down my spine.

I opened my mouth to respond, but before I could, he pulled me closer, our lips only inches apart.

Then, he kissed me.

Hungry. Desperate. Possessive.

His lips claimed mine like a starving man finally tasting what he'd craved for months. A small gasp escaped me, and I melted into him, my fingers threading into the hair at the nape of his neck. His low growl rumbled against my lips, igniting something wild inside me.

Jayson deepened the kiss, molding me against him as he savored every inch of my lips. His hands cupped my face, his touch gentle yet commanding, sending fiery shivers down my spine. With each kiss, each stroke of his tongue, he unraveled me.

Then, without warning, he tugged me down onto the bed, his darkened eyes locked onto mine.

"Mandy Morgan..." his voice was husky, laced with a raw intensity. "You're driving me insane."

A low growl escaped his lips as I traced my fingers down his chest, pushing the robe off his shoulders. His sculpted torso came into full view-every ridge, every defined muscle a work of art.

Jayson's hands skimmed down my body, his fingers ghosting over my curves before he gently cupped my breast. A gasp slipped past my lips as his touch sent waves of pleasure straight to my core.

Then, slowly, his hand trailed between my thighs.

I trembled beneath him.

His fingers brushed against the growing heat between my legs, and I bit my lip hard, trying to suppress a moan. But when he applied the slightest pressure, I couldn't hold back anymore. A soft, breathy moan escaped me.

Jayson's eyes darkened further, his chest rising and falling with restraint. I glanced down and saw the evidence of his arousal-his hard length straining beneath the robe.

Swallowing thickly, I reached down, brushing my fingers over his swollen member. A low, guttural groan rumbled from his throat as he cupped my breast harder, his control slipping.

With one swift motion, he pulled down my camisole, exposing my thighs. His lips trailed downward, kissing every inch of sensitive skin.

I arched against him, my body trembling with anticipation.

Then, just as my mind began to spiral, he kissed me again. Deep. Consuming. Tasting me with a hunger that sent my nerves into overdrive.

He spread my thighs, his gaze meeting mine. Asking for permission.

I nodded, already too lost in him.

Positioning himself, he gently pressed forward. A sharp gasp escaped me as he entered, filling me inch by inch.

Jayson groaned lowly as he moved, his rhythm slow at first, then gradually picking up pace. My moans spurred him on, his thrusts becoming deeper, more intense.

The tension coiled, winding tighter and tighter until-

A final thrust sent us both tumbling over the edge.

Breathless. Spent. Consumed.

A few moments later, I slipped out of bed and into the shower, needing to catch my breath. Jayson followed soon after.

By the time we crawled back into bed, exhaustion weighed down my limbs.

Jayson pulled me close, pressing a soft kiss to my temple.

"Sleep, Mandy," he murmured.

And with that, we both drifted into the depths of sleep.