Chapter 3 First dialogue with

"And thank you so much, sir, for accepting to employ me without any hesitation," Emily said, her voice tinged with genuine gratitude. They both smiled, their eyes briefly locking as silence stretched between them for a few heartbeats.

Gray's gaze lingered on her, a thoughtful expression forming as a familiar memory surfaced. Emily reminded him of someone.

"You bear a slight resemblance to one of my colleagues in the marketing department. Her name is Lyra," he said with a soft smile.

"Wow, that's amazing, sir," Emily replied, her voice warm but steady. "But I'm the only daughter of my mother. She did everything in her power to ensure I succeeded,always reminding me to strive to become the best version of myself."

Gray nodded slowly, clearly touched by her words. "And what about your father?" he asked gently, his tone shifting to one of sincere curiosity.

Emily inhaled deeply and paused, her expression shadowed. Gray immediately sensed the shift in her energy.His question had brushed against a wound not yet fully healed.

"My father left my mother while she was still pregnant with me," she said softly. "I grew up never knowing him. When I asked about him, my mom told me he died in a car accident a few months after their divorce."

Her voice quivered ever so slightly, and though she smiled, it was clear she was holding herself together.

"I'm truly sorry to hear that," Gray said, his voice rich with empathy. "It must have been incredibly hard, but your mother must be a remarkable woman to raise you so well, all on her own. I admire the woman you've become;brilliant, creative, and naturally beautiful. You are undoubtedly one of the most graceful and inspiring women I've ever come across, and..."

Gray stopped abruptly, realizing he had let his emotions carry him a little too far. He cleared his throat and composed himself.

"Thank you, sir, for your kind words," Emily replied with a soft smile. She appreciated his sincerity, believing this to be how he treated all his employees, not realizing she had already earned a special place in his thoughts-just like Lyra once had.

"It was truly a pleasure having this little chat with you, dear Emily," Gray said, his tone now composed and professional, though his heart was still quietly humming. "You may return to your duties. Remember, my door is always open. Let's work together for the continued success of NovaTech. Have a wonderful day."

"Thank you, sir. I'm honored to have had this moment with you. I'll return to the staff room now," Emily said politely, rising to her feet and walking toward the door. She opened it, stepped out, and gently closed it behind her without glancing back.

Gray stared at the closed door for a few moments, then leaned back in his chair, unconsciously stroking his beard. There was no denying it-Emily's beauty stirred something in him, just as Lyra's had, though in a different, more subtle way. Emily's charm was in her gentle presence and luminous eyes, while Lyra radiated confidence with her curves and bold demeanor.

....

Later That Evening - Gray and Lyra

As the sun dipped beneath the city skyline, Gray met up with Lyra at their favorite spot; a cozy and private lounge where laughter came easily and wine flowed freely. They sat across from each other, savoring their drinks.

"That new lady you hired recently-what's her name again?" Lyra asked, casually sipping her juice through a straw, her eyes keen with curiosity.

Gray chuckled lightly and glanced away for a moment before replying, "Her name is Emily."

"Beautiful name," Lyra noted. "What does she do?"

"She's an exceptional software developer," he said, his tone laced with admiration. "Sharp mind, expert skills. Truly impressive."

Lyra raised an eyebrow. "Some of the others say she looks like me. I caught wind of that."

Gray nodded. "You're right, there is a resemblance. But Emily... She's incredibly humble. Very submissive and respectful."

Lyra gave a sarcastic chuckle. "She might be humble at work, but who knows what storms she hides inside? Still waters run deep, Gray."

Gray laughed softly, not entirely dismissing her point. "So you think she might be different behind closed doors?"

"Absolutely," Lyra replied confidently. "Most people just want to keep their jobs. Submission isn't always a reflection of their true self."

"You're probably right. One shouldn't judge a book by its cover," Gray agreed thoughtfully.

"On point, my wise philosopher," Lyra teased, and they both shared a genuine laugh.

Eventually, they rose to leave, hand in hand, walking out into the night air toward Gray's classic car.

"It's been a while since I spent the night at your place," Lyra said, her voice lower, sultry. "I miss those long, warm hugs in bed."

Gray turned to look at her, a knowing smile playing on his lips. "Then let's make up for lost time tonight."

They reached the car, and Gray opened the door for her like a gentleman. Lyra slid in, her short, body-hugging gown highlighting her curves. Gray swallowed hard, locking the door behind them.

Gray drove smoothly through the city streets. Upon arriving at his elegant mansion, he stepped out and locked the car after Lyra joined him. As she walked toward the entrance ahead of him, his gaze inadvertently traced the contours of her hourglass figure, accentuated perfectly by her tight gown. Desire stirred within him.

He opened the door, letting her step in first. The sight of her swaying hips reminded him exactly why he could never quite resist Lyra's allure. Her presence was magnetic, and he knew-without doubt-that tonight would not be an ordinary night.