Chapter 1 A NEW JOB

**Lila Carter's Point of View**

My pulse pounded as I entered the large, gleaming structure. I started working at Blackwood Enterprises today. I was both anxious and thrilled about my new position as a picture drawer. I clutched my sketchbook and donned my favorite blue outfit. The lobby was crowded with suit-wearing folks and had large windows. Like a mouse in a huge home, I felt little.

The woman behind the desk grinned. "Lila Carter? Seek out the eleventh floor. Blackwood, Mr., is waiting.

With a nod, I entered the elevator. My stomach turned over as it shot upward. I saw a guy standing at a large desk as the doors opened. He was tall, with emerald eyes that stared directly at me, and black hair. Like when I view a beautiful sunset, my heart makes a weird bounce.

With a rich voice, he introduced himself as Ethan Blackwood. "You're the new performer?"

"Yes," I answered quietly, "sir." He only glanced at my hand as I extended it. He didn't grin, but his gaze warmed me.

He pointed to a chair and said, "Show me your drawings."

I opened my sketchbook and took a seat. I showed him my photos of cities and flowers, and my hands trembled a bit. Leaning closer, Ethan examined every page. For a moment, I thought I saw him grin, but then his expression returned to its seriousness.

"Well done," he remarked. "Today is your first day. Come with me.

I rushed to keep up with his rapid pace. We entered a room filled with tables piled high with documents and large screens. People were conversing and painting. Ethan gestured towards a desk. "You own this. By tomorrow, create a poster for our new phone.

I nodded as my stomach twisted. By tomorrow, a poster? I wanted to give it my all. Ethan gave me another glance, his green eyes keen as if he could see right through me. I felt my cheeks heat up and glanced down.

The day flew by. In an attempt to create the ideal poster, I sketched and erased. I neglected to bring lunch, and my pencils made scratches on the paper. I often saw Ethan strolling past and chatting with folks when I glanced up. He once paused to examine my artwork. My pulse pounded once again as his gaze lingered on me for an extended period of time.

I was delighted yet exhausted at the end of the day. I had finished my poster. After packing my things, I made my way to the elevator. There stood Ethan, by himself. It was only the two of us when the doors closed.

He remarked, "Good first day," without glancing at me.

"Thank you," I muttered. My voice became trapped as I tried to speak more. The elevator seems cramped, and I felt lightheaded from his soapy, tree-like scent. His eyes locked with mine as I looked at him. I briefly sensed something significant, like a hidden spark between us.

The doors opened and the elevator dinged. Ethan turned to face me as he went outside. His voice was icy as he urged, "Don't be late tomorrow." After that, he left me standing there with a sorrowful heart. Why did he behave so cruelly after giving me that look?

With my head whirling, I ventured out into the chilly night. There was something about Ethan that made me feel both significant and unwanted. I saw a shadow moving quickly across the street as I boarded the bus. Despite having a large appearance, it had emerald eyes that resembled Ethan's. I gasped and looked, but my breath was gone.