Chapter 2 COLD EYES

**Lila Carter's Point of View*

With my hands clutching my luggage, I sat on the bus. I kept thinking about that green-eyed shadow even as the street lights flickered past. Although it seemed to be a large dog, something didn't feel right. Ethan's icy comments still made my heart ache. His voice was abrasive, as if he didn't want me there, yet he warned me not to be late. I watched the city blur as I rested my head on the glass. Why did I feel so melancholy after being warmed by his eyes?

It was quiet in my little apartment when I went home. I slammed onto the sofa after kicking off my shoes. I finished my poster by opening my sketchbook, which was resting on the table. I sketched a brightly colored, sparkling phone in the hopes that Ethan would appreciate it. My thoughts kept returning to him even though my pencil was moving quickly. The strength of those emerald eyes made my stomach turn. I gave a headshake. I needed to concentrate. This was my big break.

I got up early in the morning. Even though my eyelids were heavy, I dressed in pants and a green sweater. I wanted to appear good without being too elaborate. I snatched up my poster and hurried to the bus stop. With all the automobiles and people, the city was noisy. Just in time, I arrived at Blackwood Enterprises and quickly made my way to the eleventh level.

Ethan was standing near his desk already. He had clean hair and was dressed in a black suit. My heart made that amusing leap once again as he glanced at me. His voice was bland as he replied, "You're on time." He gestured toward a table. There, place your poster. We'll examine it later.

I put down my painting and nodded. My fingers trembled a little. He turned away, speaking to a guy with a shaved head, but I wanted him to say something kind. It must be his assistant, Marcus. I moved to my workstation and began creating a fresh image. There were a lot of individuals typing and conversing in the room. I continued to steal glances at Ethan. His expression was solemn, as if he bore a heavy burden, yet he walked as if he owned everything.

I ate a sandwich by myself at my desk at lunch. Sarah, one of my friends from the art team, stopped by. She smiled broadly and had short blond hair. "Hey, Lila, your poster looks fantastic!" she said as she sat next me.

I smiled back and replied, "Thanks." "I'm hoping Ethan enjoys it."

Sarah gave an eye roll. You'll win him over, even if he's tough. Continue being who you are.

I felt a bit better after laughing. Sarah was always able to lift my spirits. We discussed ridiculous topics, such as her cat stealing socks. But my laughter stopped as Ethan passed by. My cheeks became flushed as his gaze briefly met mine. He continued to walk without stopping. Why did he give me this feeling?

We had a meeting later. My heart was pounding as I stood beside my poster. Marcus and Ethan examined everyone's work. I held my breath until they reached mine. I sketched a colorful phone, and Ethan gazed at it. His eyes lingered on it for a while, but his face remained unchanged.

Finally, he responded, "It's good." Increase the background's blueness. We'll make advantage of it.

My heart leaped. He enjoyed it! His voice remained icy, as if he didn't care, even if I wanted to grin. Marcus gave me a nod, his eyes warm. "Well done, Lila," he said. Ethan's coldness ached, but I felt warm on the inside.

I worked on the blue backdrop for the remainder of the day. My thoughts were on Ethan, but my pencil was moving quickly. What made him so cruel? Did I make a mistake? He was usually occupied, either examining documents or conversing with others, but I still wanted to question him.

Sarah dragged me to a peaceful nook at the conclusion of the day. "Lila, watch out for Ethan," she muttered. He's not your typical employer. He's... unique.

I scowled. "What do you mean?"

Leaning closer, she took a look around. Simply keep an eye on him. He has secrets.

I was at a loss for words. Secrets? Such as? I considered the green-eyed shadow. Was that for real? I gave a headshake. I was being foolish. Ethan wasn't some mystery; he was simply a boss.

I packed my suitcase at the conclusion of the day. Now that most people had left, the workplace was quiet. My feet were weary as I made my way to the elevator. Once again, Ethan was there by himself. My heart skipped a beat. Like yesterday night, it was only the two of us when the doors closed.

He looked to the wall and said, "You did well today." His voice was not warm, but it was gentler.

"Thanks," I responded in a low voice. I wanted to ask him why he seemed so aloof. I was afraid, however. His scent filled my nostrils like woods, and the elevator seemed little once again. I gave him a quick look. He seemed to be keeping something back with his tense jaw.

He walked out as the doors opened. He murmured, "Good night, Lila," without turning around. He moved quickly as he left. My heart was heavy once again as I stood there. Why did he give me such conflicting feelings?

The chilly night air felt good on my face as I stepped outdoors. There were several automobiles and lights on the street. With my backpack weighing heavily on my shoulder, I headed for the bus station. Then a deep growl reached my ears. My heart was pounding when I stopped. I noticed those green eyes once again in a dim alleyway across the street. Like Ethan, they gleamed, sharp and brilliant. The large, hairy figure, like a gigantic dog, shifted. I moved back as my breath caught.

The shadow moved toward the light. It wasn't a canine. It was a tall, powerful, dark-furred wolf. My legs halted as its gaze fixed themselves on me. I believed my heart would explode from the thunderous pounding. I wanted to flee as the wolf made another stride, but I was immobile. Then, like a flash, it turned and fled into the darkness.

I trembled as I stood there. Was that for real? Was it my imagination? Those eyes reminded me so much of Ethan's. However, that was insane. He wasn't a wolf; he was my employer. I glanced over my shoulder as I rushed to the bus stop. Even though the street was deserted now, I had the impression that something was waiting and watching me.