Chapter 1 The Interview

The glass doors whispered shut behind her as Layla stepped into the sleek, high-rise office of Ward Enterprises. Everything screamed power and precision-from the cold marble floors to the towering wall of screens behind the receptionist's desk. She smoothed her skirt and inhaled, nerves bubbling under her polished surface.

"Layla Morgan?" the receptionist called. "Mr. Ward will see you now."

She followed the assistant through a corridor of frosted glass and steel, heart pounding like a war drum. The door to Dominic Ward's office slid open silently.

He stood at the window, tall and sharp in a tailored suit that molded his broad frame. When he turned, she felt the air shift. Dominance radiated from him, not just in posture, but in the way his gaze assessed her-slowly, deliberately.

"Miss Morgan," he said. His voice was smooth but commanding. "I reviewed your application. Impressive... though I usually don't hire assistants without corporate pedigree."

Layla straightened. "And I usually don't take interviews with men who have a reputation for chewing through assistants every three weeks."

His brow lifted in amusement, just slightly. "Touché."

There was a beat of silence. Then he gestured toward the chair across from his.

"I run my company with discipline. Discretion is paramount. My assistant is expected to anticipate needs, handle chaos, and obey strict confidentiality." He leaned forward. "Can you do that?"

"I can do anything if the compensation is worth the trouble," she replied evenly.

A smirk ghosted over his lips. "You're bold. I like that."

He tapped a pen on the desk. "You'll start tomorrow. 8 a.m. sharp. One mistake, and you're out."

Layla rose, her pulse thrumming as their eyes locked again.

"I won't make any."

As she walked out, she could feel his eyes on her. Heat pooled low in her belly.

This wasn't just a job-it was the beginning of something dangerous