HIS TO CONQUER

PROLOGUE

"Tell me what you want baby." He whispered softly into my ears.

I couldn't open my eyes as I bit my lips to stop the moan from escaping my throat. It was utterly embarrassing.

"I know what you want Logan, but I want you to say it." His playful voice teased as he nibbled on my earlobes while his fingers gently caressed my nipples.

Why do I need to say it. I would rather die than say such embarrassing things out loud.

He licked down from my ears to my throat as his wet tongue settled on my Adam apple. In this moment, I couldn't hold back my moan as my toes curled up on the bed.

"Ah Gavin! Yes!" I moaned shamelessly and I could feel him smirking without having to meet his eyes.

"Say it. Tell me what you want me to do to you. I want to hear it little bunny." He teased once more and I felt like my hard dick could explode any moment from now from all the teasing he was doing to my body.

"Fuck you Gavin!" I cussed in rage and he bit my neck, causing me to wince in pain before using his tongue to sooth the ache on my neck.

"Of course," he smirked. "But I'm going to be the one pounding you roughly." I looked up to meet his lustful gaze as my heart raced with desires to be claimed by this big bad wolf.

"Fuck me!" I whispered, embarrassment clear in my voice .

"No, no baby. I can't hear you."

I bit my lips before raising my voice again. "Fucking hell! I said fuck me Gavin! For fucks sake!"

I couldn't believe the words coming out of my mouth. That I would ask Gavin Slade, my archenemy to fuck me. The very person who has done all sorts of things to embarrass me and make sure I remained a completely useless toy in his hands to play with. I must be utterly crazy to desire such things with this bastard.

~ LOGAN'S POV ~

I slammed my fist hard on the desk. "Can't they see I'm busy?" I growled.

My phone rang again. I hissed frustrated as I picked up the call.

"Mr Logan Pierce, it's Jenkins from Goldrim. We're withdrawing our investment. The rumors about your company's financial troubles are quite ...alarming."

I rubbed my temples. "Mr Jenkins, I assure you, we're stable. This is just a minor setback."

He snorted. "Minor setback? Mr Logan, your company's on the verge of bankruptcy. We can't afford to take the risk."

I felt a cold sweat trickle down my spine. "Please reconsider...we have been partners since the time of my mother. You can't ...."

"I'm really sorry Mr Logan, but this is business. Goodbye."

"Mr.......oh fuck! He hung up." I hissed angrily. That's the seventh one today.

There was a knock on the door and Peter, my secretary came in.

"What is it, Peter?" I said curtly, because I cannot afford another bad news.

Peter's expression was grim. "The reporters are swarming outside the building. They're asking about the investigation and the company's financial troubles."

My mind reeled, but I maintained composure. "Get someone to handle them." I waved it off, but he still stood like he had more to say. "And?" I asked him.

"Most of the employees are submitting their resignation letters. They're scared Mr Logan."

I felt like I'd been punched in the gut. Why was this happening now?

I looked at Peter. "Get me the head of our financial department. Now!"

Peter nodded and hurried out.

I paced round the room. This had to be some kind of mistake. There's no way we are completely broke. It can't be.

My phone rang again, but I ignored it. Peter returned with a nervous looking man.

"Mr Logan, this is Mr Thompson, our financial head."

Thompson trembled as he spoke. "Mr Lo....Logan, I...I don't know how to say this, but...the company's bankrupt. We've been investigated, and it's been discovered that funds have been siphoned to offshore accounts through several paper companies. The police has seized everything. And the banks are threatening sir."

"I already know that. What I'm asking now is how we can revive the company. This was my mother's life's work. How can we escape bankruptcy?" I asked with every muscle in my veins.

"The only way is to get a big loan. But none of the banks are willing to give us because of the...the news about of company."

Fuck! All of this is because of that bastard Jaxon, my half brother. He syphoned funds, he misused resources, he did everything. At least, he's in jail now. That's my only consolation, but I'm the one who's going to suffer and try to revive the company again.

"Okay, I'll see how I can secure some funds." Surely , there is someone out there who can help me.

~~~~~

After a hectic day, I drove back home to be met with more headaches.

As I stepped out of the car, I could already hear the sobbing coming from inside the house. I rolled my eyes.

"Thanks Peter. You can head back."

Peter bowed. "Yes sir."

I walked into the house, and the sobbing grew louder. I followed the sound to the living room, where my stepmother, Hilda Pierce was bawling her eyes out on the couch with my father, Gideon Pierce trying to comfort her, but she was having none of it.

"I want my son back!" she wailed.

My father looked up and caught my eye.

"Logan, come here."

Argh! Why did he have to see me.

I reluctantly walked over, not wanting to get drawn into their drama.

"What's going on?" I asked, already knowing the answer.

"The police just arrested Jaxon this morning" my father said, his voice accusatory.

"I know," I replied. "I just found out myself."

My father's expression turned angry. "You should have protected him, Logan. You're his brother."

I felt a surge of offense. "Protected him? He's the one who got himself into trouble. And he's older than me, he should be setting a good example."

My father's face reddened. "That's not the point! Family sticks together, no matter what. You should be doing everything in your power to get your brother out, not walking around in a well ironed suit." He sneered while his wife Hilda kept sobbing and I wasn't having any of this.

I shook my head. "You can't seriously expect me to fix this mess. Jaxon's actions have consequences, and now the company is suffering."

My father's expression turned cold. "The company? Is the company more important than your brother?" he shouted at me. This wasn't the first time anyway.

"Yes. Yes it is Mr Pierce." I retorted and we stood at a face off. "That company, Hartley holdings, belonged to my mother Christiana Hartley. After she died, you got to run it and you brought your mistress and her son into our home. Now look at what that disappointment has done! Stealing funds... He's destroyed everything!" I yelled and I couldn't process the next thing because I couldn't feel for a second. Soon I could feel the sting on my cheeks. He had hit me. Again.

"I would not have you disrespect my wife and our son by calling her a mistress. You hear me boy!" he dragged my collar and I bit down every cuss words from escaping my throat.

"You hear me?" he asked again, this time more violently.

"I hear you sir." I forced myself to utter. I didn't want to be hit again with a golf club. It's pretty sad that a 26 years old man still gets beaten up by his dad.

Wonder why I can't leave this house? There's no way I'm letting this mistress and her dumb son take over my mother's house.

"I have a way we can get out of this," father said as he patted Hilda's back, who was still annoyingly sniffling.

I raised an eyebrow. "How?"

My father's eyes gleamed with a calculating intensity. "We'll have to ask Gavin Slade for help."

My eyes widened as I felt a shiver run down my spine.

"You can't be serious. Gavin Slade, as in Gavin Slade?" I asked still finding it unbelievable.

"I guess you are not deaf boy. Get things ready. Only he can lend us the amount of money we need. Besides, you boys go way back. For old times sake, he should help. Get things done quickly." He ordered.

Old times sake? Hah! I laugh at my misfortune. All the horrible memories I had of him replayed in my mind and a shudder ran down my spine. Gavin Slade of all people. I guess this is the beginning of my misfortunes.

I rubbed my temples, frustration boiling over. "Peter, how many emails have you sent to Gavin Slade?"

Peter checked his notes. "Three to his work email, two to his personal email, and I even went to the Slade Corporation to request a meeting. But sir....they all got snubbed."

I felt a surge of rage. How could Gavin ignore me like this? Didn't he know who I was? My family's company had been a major player in the business world for decades. And he dared to ignore me like this? Fuck!

Father's words kept echoing in my mind. Gavin Slade is the only one who can give us the money you need to revive the company.

But I knew Gavin. He was a twisted, selfish, psychopathic narcissistic prick who only cared about one thing. Himself. And I knew that if I went to him for help, he'd definitely demand something in return. Something I might not be willing to give, but do I have a choice at this point?

"So what are our options then?" I asked Peter because at the moment I couldn't think anymore.

"Maybe if we could miraculously bump into him..."

"Miracles don't exist Peter." I cut him off as I rolled my eyes. "And even if it did, bumping into Gavin is more of a curse than a miracle." I hissed the words out. There was nothing I could do. And Alexander Miller has been out of the country for years and I can't reach him, or he'd have definitely helped me. Such a bad timing.

Just as I was about to give up hope, my phone buzzed with a party notification from someone in our business circle. The location was an exclusive club, and I mentally decided not to attend. I had too much on my plate to deal with the pretentious crowd who were probably just waiting to laugh at me.

But then I saw the guest list. Gavin Slade's name jumped out at me. This was it. My miracle. This was my chance to get to Gavin.

I looked at Peter. "I'm going to that party tonight."

"I'll arrange for it sir." He said politely.

"And," I added. "I guess miracles exist." I smirked and he just chuckled at the side.

I have to meet him whether he likes it or not.

~~~~~

As I stepped out of the car with Peter, the thumping bass hit us like a wave, that I felt I could go deaf any second from now. The building's exterior was nondescript, but the moment we entered, I was assaulted by the sights and sounds of debauchery. Male and female strippers danced at every corner, their bodies glistening with sweat as they writhed to the music. The rich heirs and socialites tossed money at them like confetti, laughing and cheering as they made it rain with cash. This kind of madness, I tried to always keep myself out of it.

I wasn't interested in any of this at all. I was here for one reason, which was to see Gavin, and then I'll leave.

Bryce, the one who'd invited me, spotted me and walked over with a glass of liquor in his hand. "Logan my man! Welcome to the party!"

I forced a smile, exchanging pleasantries with Bryce as we shook hands.

"You never come to this kind of parties man. Hoping to socialise more?" he smirked and I could tell he was laughing at me, his eyes glinting with amusement as he asked that question. He knows we are bankrupt and we need help.

"I just wanted to let loose." I said bitting back every cuss words I planned to say. I shouldn't insult the host or I'll get thrown out immediately. I couldn't afford that.

"How's the family business doing, Logan? Still on top of the world?" He grinned.

I ignored the jab, my expression neutral. "It's doing fine, thanks for asking. But I'm actually here to see Gavin. Do you know where he is?"

Bryce's grin faltered for a moment before he recovered. "Ah, yeah. Gavin's in the VIP section. He's...enjoying himself. But be warned, he doesn't like to be disturbed."

I nodded, my eyes already scanning the room for the VIP section. "Thanks for the heads up." Not that I needed it.

Without another word, I walked towards the VIP section, Peter following closely behind me. But as we approached the entrance, Gavin's bodyguards blocked our path.

"I'm afraid only Mr Logan is allowed in," one of them said, his voice firm but polite.

I raised an eyebrow. "Gavin's expecting me?"

The bodyguard nodded. "Yes sir. Please, follow me."

Now that was news. The bastard has been ignoring me all day but he's suddenly expecting me? Cowardly prick!

I turned to Peter. "Wait for me here. Be on alert."

Peter nodded, his eyes scanning the surrounding area before focusing on the bodyguards. "Be careful, sir."

I nodded, following the bodyguard into the VIP section.

The room was a stark contrast to the chaos outside. It was darker, colder, and had a much cooler vibe. Gavin sat on a plush couch, surrounded by dancers who were serenading him with their bodies, each one trying to catch his attention. But he looked bored, his Auburn eyes gleaming with a mixture of disinterest and calculation as he watched them swirl to the music. His hair was perfectly messy as if he had ruffled it up time and time again out of boredom, and his perfect face, that chiseled chin which I hated was perfectly illuminated by the dim light.

As I entered, his gaze shifted to me, and a slow smile spread across his face. "Logan, welcome. Come in." he chimed with that annoying baritone voice of his.

He beckoned me closer, his voice dripping with amusement. "Leave us," he told the dancers, his tone harsh.

The girls scrambled to gather the money scattered on the ground, their faces flushed with embarrassment. They quickly exited the room, leaving Gavin and me alone.

The silence was oppressive and the air thick with tension. I could feel Gavin's eyes on me, boring into my skin like cold, calculating drills.

"So, Logan," Gavin said, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "I hear you're in a bit of a bind. Your company's on the verge of bankruptcy, and you need....my help." he said proudly with a light smirk.

I felt a surge of anger, but I pushed it down, my expression neutral. "Gavin, I....."

He raised a hand, his eyes glinting with amusement. "No, no, Logan. Let's not play games. I know exactly why you're here. And I'm willing to help...but for a price."

My gut twisted with unease. I knew Gavin was a master manipulator, always getting what he wanted no matter the cost. And I had a feeling that his price would be steeper than I was willing to pay.

"What do you want?" I asked boldly. If he wanted me to draw my blood, I'd do it. I can't let mom's sweat go down the drain like that.

He snickered at my words then he asked. "Are you willing to do anything I ask?" his eyes narrowed as he stared me down and I swallowed hard.

"Yes." I replied and his lips formed a thin line as he grinned. I've always found his grin seductive but poisonous at the same time. Gavin was a beautiful man but his heart was the ugly part of him and I wondered what madness he was going to push me into this time.

"Okay," he clasped his hands. "I'll give you the entire 5 billion your company needs." He said.

"How... how do you know it's exactly 5 billion? I was only going to ask for a loan of 3 billion from you." I said shocked.

"Baby boy, I did my findings as soon as I saw your first email." He laughed.

So he did see all my mails. Again, he's a dick.

"But, if you want something, you seek it out like you seeked me out." He gave that stupid seduction grin again.

"Just tell me what you want Gavin and I'll give it. Shares? Lands? Assets? Just name it." I said already losing my cool but he just sat there as he laughed.

"I don't want those useless things. What I want is... entertainment." He stressed the words.

Entertainment? What the hell was he talking about?

He suddenly pointed at the pole one of the girls were using to serenade him earlier.

"Dance!" were his exact words.

"Dance!"

"Dance? Me? You must be fucking crazy Gavin." I said unrestrained.

He was out of his mind. Do I look like a stripper that I'd start dancing on a pole to entertain some sick bastard because of money? I was a business man, and we make deals.

"Are you refusing? His words were harsh this time.

"Hell yes I'm refusing. And fuck you Gavin!" I cussed again as I headed for the door angrily.

"Know that if you walk out, I'll never let you approach me again, and I'll make sure no one lends you the money. But if you dance for me, I won't lend you the money, but I'll give it to you as a gift." He threatened and I stopped in my heels.

The Slade family wasn't that powerful in the start, but after this asshole came back from studying abroad five years ago, the Slade corporation became a powerhouse in the nation and even internationally. Almost all businesses are controlled by him. I have been surviving all this while because we don't cross each others paths because we know how much we have hated each other since childhood.

So if he's saying this, he definitely means it.

"You are a big bully Gavin." I said painfully as I turned around and he simply snickered.

"Get up there already. And make it worth 5 billion." He said without a hint of remorse.

I bit my jaws as I tried to decide whether to fuck everything and walk out, or swallow my pride and dance for this psycho. It's all because of that Jaxon. If only... I can't think about that now.

"Okay." I said as I slowly walked and climbed up the stage and he relaxed himself into his couch as he grabbed his glass of liquor and a small smile spread on his lips.

I stepped onto the stage, the pulsating beat seemed to match the rhythm of my racing heart.

Gavin eyes were fixed on me like a predator sizing up its prey. I felt a shiver run down my spine as I met his gaze.

"I don't know how to dance," I said embarrassed.

Gavin's frown deepened. "Don't play dumb Logan. You've pole danced before."

Me? When? I shook my head. "I don't know what you're talking about."

Gavin's smirk returned. "You did it on the last day of high school. And I didn't get to watch. So I'll watch it now."

My eyes narrowed as I recalled what he was talking about. "You're doing this to embarrass me, aren't you? Because you didn't get to see me dance in high school? How petty are you? And that was a fucking dare back then." I said in an outburst.

Gavin's smirk grew wider. "Maybe. But that's not the point. The point is, you're going to dance for me, or I'll change my mind about the money."

I bit back my argument, my anger and frustration simmering just below the surface. I took a deep breath, letting the music wash over me.

I started to dance, my movements quirky and awkward. I felt like a big fool, a puppet on strings. I couldn't believe I was actually doing this, and if anyone walks in on me right now, I'll bury myself alive. But as the music continued to pulse, I began to relax, letting my body move to the rhythm.

I started to swing my hips and my hands, hoping I wasn't looking entirely embarrassing. I kept my eyes locked on Gavin's, my gaze burning with intensity. I could see the surprise in his eyes, the spark of interest that he couldn't quite hide.

As I danced, I started to feel a sense of freedom, of release. I was doing this for my family, for our company. But I was also doing it for myself, to prove that I could do it.

My movements became more sensual, more seductive as my hands roamed over my body slowly. I could feel Gavin's eyes on me, his gaze burning with desire. I kept my eyes locked on his, my expression daring him to look away.

But Gavin never tore his gaze away from me. He watched me with an intensity that made my skin prickle with awareness. Awareness that his eyes were only for me.

Just as I was getting into the rhythm, Gavin suddenly got up and walked towards the stage. He threw a bundle of cash at me, the bills fluttering through the air like confetti.

I stopped dancing, my eyes fixed on the money. I felt like a stripper, a prostitute. I lowered my gaze, my fist clenching in anger and frustration.

Gavin's voice was low and husky. "You're worth every penny Logan. Much more than those cheap bitches."

I looked up at him, my eyes blazing with anger. But Gavin just smiled, his eyes glinting with amusement.

"You're not done yet, Logan," he said, his voice dripping with promise. "We're just getting started."

"I already danced for you. Don't go back on your words." I said in frustration.

He snickered lightly. "I don't plan to. Get your secretary to come over tomorrow to get the contract."

"Thank you." I forced the words out. "And," I looked at him with desperation. "Please don't tell anyone what happened here." I could beg on my knees if he wanted. No one must know.

He pinched my chin as he stared directly into my eyes. "Why would I tell anyone about my new favourite toy?" his words were like a knife. Asking for money from this maniac, I'm certainly going to get cut more times than I can count.

"I'll make the arrangements." I said as I pushed his hands off and walked out of the room to see Peter still waiting for me.

"Let's go." I said before he could ask any questions. I didn't want to talk about it. I felt like a whore. Fuck you Gavin! And fuck you Jaxon! For wrecking the company. Most importantly, fuck you dad and your bitch of a mistress too.

~~~~~

The next day, Gavin did as promised and Peter secured the money. It was handed over to our financial director as the finance department tried to revive the company and pay off the banks we were owing so we could escape bankruptcy.

It was a hectic and long day, but I was glad everything was falling in place. I went back home exhausted and it seemed like there was a party going on inside. I was surprised by the music playing from inside of the house. Maybe it was just Hilda dancing to one of her stereos again, but her son was in prison so she couldn't possibly be dancing.

Peter handed me the agreement and I took it from him before he said his good bye and left. I headed inside the house and to my surprise, there was actually a mini celebration going on as Hilda was dancing happily with her son Jaxon while father poured wine for them.

So they got him released after all. They ignored me as I headed upstairs to the treasury room to securely store the agreement. I was happy the music was reduced in this part of the house, because I don't want to hear such horrible instrumentals in my dream. I entered the treasury room and placed the document with other important ones, and I was about to leave when I noticed something was missing. Something important. My mind reeled as I realised what it was and I hurried downstairs to the happy family.

"Father, where's my mother's diamond necklace?" I demanded and he paused to look at me with annoyance.

"Which one? There are so many of them." He said casually.

"Her family's heirloom. That one." I pointed out and he looked away. My eyes darted to his mistress Hilda and I strode towards her as I grabbed her shirt forcefully to see if she was wearing it. She gasped as she struggled to push me off.

"The fucks wrong with you nitwit?" Jaxon pushed me off his mother and she glared at me, but it wasn't on her neck.

"Do you think I'd wear that old thing? Heirloom my arse!" she sneered and father pulled me by the hair roughly.

"You unfilial child! How dare you lay hands on my wife!" he shouted at me but I pushed him off. I knew he had the necklace.

"Where is it?" I asked again through gritted teeth and he sneered.

"That piece of crap? I sold it!" his words were like hot lava boiling in my stomach.