INDOMITUS

"Hell is empty and all the devils are here"

- William Shakespeare, The Tempest.

Adrianna's POV:

"Fuck!" My tongue lolled out as I threw my head back, the faceless stranger driving himself inside me like a maniac. Small waves of pleasure rolled through my body, setting my skin on fire.

Fire and ice.

Tremors of pleasure ran down me as I let myself fade away into the euphoric bliss, like a river mingling with the ocean.

Lust.

One of the seven deadly sins.

A sin that rooted itself inside one's core, all consuming like a raging flame until the ashes were the only remnant of the soul that was left.

It destroyed, it broke- but fuck! It felt way too good, way too heavenly, to not let myself indulge into this beautiful disaster.

Lust is a sin I was willing to burn for, burn into.

My way of feeling wanted....

"I knew you wanted this from the moment you entered that room, didn't you?" The man above me hissed.

"Y-Yes..." I moaned, clutching the bed sheet tightly under my fists. A droplet of cold sweat ran down my warm skin as another jolt of shock traveled within.

Butterflies unfurled in the deepest pit of my stomach as my breath heightened.

I felt his cold tongue licking one of my nipples, painfully slow as he rammed his cock in me.

What was his name?

I didn't know.

All I knew was, he was the new doctor in our hospital with an insanely attractive look and he was 29.

I happen to have a thing for older men.

"Cum."

His word was my undoing.

My eyes rolled in the back of my head as I clasped a hand over my mouth, trying not to scream down the hospital and notify the authority that I got frisky with the new doctor.

Tears streamed down my eyes as I felt myself transcending into a heaven of post orgasmic bliss, the man drove inside me with more ferociousness as he seemed to lose control.

Another orgasm tore through me as I bit my lips, my body dancing with his in a primate dance.

"Fuck Adrianna!" He gritted his teeth as his eyes fixated upon his cock coming in and out of me, making me hot all over. The muscles of his abs clenched as a droplet of sweat ran down his torso.

He threw his head back as he came, it made him look mouthwatering under the dim lights of the mildly dark storeroom.

For a moment, all that existed was my heavy breathing and the distant sound of the chaotic atmosphere of the hospital.

The sharp smell of disinfectants was now replaced with a subtle scent of perspiration and sex.

The man rested his face in the crook of my neck, his heavy breathing fanning the side of my ear.

I was fulfilled, sated. Yet, somewhere, deep down within me, I felt a void.

A space.

A space that seemed to get darker every time I slept with a man.

I love sex, sex is my way of feeling bliss, happiness. I am addicted to it.

I am what they call a nymphomaniac.

Yet, I hated it at the same time.

"Are you okay?" He let himself up, looking down on me. His hair was dark, ruffled and his eyes were a smoky brown. He was tall, had a sharp jawline- he was what you would call beautiful. In times like these, I regretted not knowing their names.

Unable to say anything, I only nodded my head.

"Damn..." He let out a breath as his eyes raked over my half naked body once again. My pink scrubs were lifted enough to let him access my breasts, the bottom discarded somewhere. I looked beside to find my thong torn in half.

"You really are something, aren't you Adri?" I cringed internally at the affection in his voice. He was just another mindless sedative for me. If he was lucky, I would let him have a second time with me.

But that was it. I wouldn't attach myself to him emotionally.

I gave him a smirk, watching his eyes widen as his Adam's apples bobbed up and down. I didn't want to give him the wrong idea, but I couldn't help but tease him a bit.

They would always come back for more at the end of the day.

Being 20, one would probably think I was a little bit too wild for myself. One might think I was wasting away my life on lust; but I was not.

It wasn't like I was desperate; I only happen to have a high sex drive and I am not picky when it came to men.

After passing my MCAT last year, I thought I would finally be able to pursue my dream. John Hopkins. The thing was, they required some form of experience in the medical field.

So here I was, in a small clinic, working temporarily as an assistant nurse.

And damn this job was hectic.

"When are we seeing each other again, Adri?" The doctor mumbled in a raspy voice. I let myself up and fixed my scrubs, combing back my frizzy hair with my fingers. A brief glimpse at the side mirror told me that my lip-gloss was completely smeared, my blonde hair was a mess.

"I said no strings doctor," I shrugged as I focused on buttoning my scrubs, "Are you already violating the term?"

"I didn't intend to primarily..." He smirked as his eyes met mine on the glass reflection, "But your ass is too pretty to let go."

A chuckle escaped me as I grabbed my glasses from the bedside table, taking a better look at him.

"I know my ass is pretty, doctor, but you being attached is not a pretty look, don't you think?" I raised an eyebrow, thoroughly amused.

"I know," He sighed exasperatedly, as if to exaggerate himself, "I knew you were a heartbreaker but that's just downright cruel."

I rolled my eyes as I stood, looking around for my purse.

"Do you even remember my name?" Even though the question was playfully shot, I couldn't help but feel the pang of embarrassment that ran down me.

I couldn't look up and moments like these were the times I felt like deleting myself out of awkwardness.

"Don't tell me you actually don't?" His voice was laced with surprise.

"I have a weak memory," I muttered lamely.

"Yes and you passed MCAT at 19. Your point?"

I sighed, "I am sorry."

Before I could comprehend, I felt his hands on my shoulder and before I knew, I stood facing him. As he stared into my eyes with humor glistening in them, I could notice that he was quite tall, so I had to crane my neck.

"It's Brent, Brent Johnson."

I gave him a smile, despite my discomfit. It was almost the end of my shift, I was looking forward to a good night's sleep.

Adrianna Campbell.... Adrianna Campbell.... please report to the executive office immediately.

"Did you hear that?" I stuttered as my eyes widened in panic as my heart did a leap. It certainly didn't sound pleasant, in the worst case scenario, someone reported that I was fucking the doctor.

My medical career would end before it had begun!

"The only thing you would hear is my heart shattering if you listen closely," I glared at the man as I grabbed my purse and proceeded to the door.

"Hey, Adrianna..." I halted in my step as I rolled my eyes, this guy was clearly attached to me and I didn't like it, "Call me, you know my number."

"Sure," I muttered dryly as I strode to the executive office, my heart palpitating from the anticipation of what was to come.

The hallway was mostly empty, except for a couple of nurses strutting about. The lights were dimmed and the smell of hydrogen peroxide was too sharp to ignore.

The wooden door came into my view, I brushed my scrubs, hoping to fix any crumple it might have.

Or cum stains.

Taking in a deep breath, I knocked on the door and stood akimbo, my heart beating loudly in my ribcage.

"Come in," The gravelly voice of the chief did nothing to calm my raging nerves.

I twisted the knob and let myself in. Immediately my eyes found a pair of dark brown eyes of a man sitting at the opposite of him. Sure he was a stranger, but damn he was hot.

"Sir?" I frowned, my eyes taking in the stranger through and through, "You summoned me."

"Yes Adrianna I did.." Mr. Adams sighed, "I need to ask you a favor."

The heaviness, that had almost felt like a stone weighted down on my chest, disappeared as if it had never existed. I guessed my time to atone for my sins was yet to come.

"Please go ahead." I shot him a friendly smile, fumbling with my fingers.

"Your internship is coming to an end soon, right?" Mr. Adams pushed his glasses on the bridge of his nose, shooting me a sharp look from underneath them, "I have decided to assign you your final work before you apply for medical school. It will also give your portfolio a boost."

A smile made its way to my lips. A bubble of hope blossomed within as a flurry of collywobbles unleashed inside me. I was excited, I was nervous and for some reason I couldn't wait to have this new experience that might get me into my dream university.

"Thank you, sir," I mumbled, dazed, "I am so thankful for this opportunity."

A smile lit up his face, he looked somewhat reassured, "Are you sure? You will be signed as a private nurse who must take care of the patient 24/7. Any negligence entreats the nullification of the contract and you might not get that recommendation in your portfolio."

Being a nurse to some old person 24/7 sounded like a hectic job, but hell if it meant I would land my dream career who cares. I also loved nursing people, it made me happy. The fact they would be able to have a somewhat normal life despite their messed-up life because of me, made me happy.

"I don't have any problem with it sir," I smiled.

"Mr. Estevan here will explain your job in detail," He nodded at the stranger.

My eyes travelled back to the gorgeous young man who seemed to be in his early 20's. He shot me a smile as he stood up, extending his hand.

"Adrianna Campbell, right? I'm Archer. Archer Estevan. Nice to meet you." I shook his hand, loving how coarse it felt.

"Yes, I am a junior nursing assistant here..." I smiled, "Pleased to make your acquaintance."

He took his moment to examine me, "The patient is my older brother, Ares Estevan. He is an outcast, refuses any and every medication; he hates his private space being invaded. He shuts off any and everyone- even me."

I clenched my eyebrows, mentally taking notes. So, I was being assigned to an introvert. Not only an introvert, possibly a person who suffers from anxiety.

"He needs both emotional and physical care. After the accident, he became so distant and insecure because of his eyesight-"

"I beg your pardon?" I interrupted him, shocked, to confirm if I had heard him correctly.

What eyesight-

A melancholic smile lit up Archer's gorgeous features, "My older brother, Ares, is blind. He lost his eyesight in an accident."

Orphic (adj.): a mystic Greek religion offering initiates purification of the soul from innate evil and release from the cycle of reincarnation.

Adrianna's POV:

It is a truth mostly acknowledged, that a woman wearing dresses that doesn't cover her back or knee must be a depraved slut or an attention seeker who must be in want of a rich husband.

In a society where the purity of our characters were judged by the length of our dresses and the number of men we slept with- I was often seen as a temptress, a seductress. In plain words, a good for nothing whore, a slut.

There were times I wished I wasn't like this, that my sexual appetite wasn't like that of a manic.

Sex was something I enjoyed, but it was also something my body needed. On a daily basis.

And I couldn't help it.

I was sad, agitated and infuriated that I couldn't help my sex drive.

But I enjoyed it at the same time.

Usually, the tag people put on me and label me as, didn't bother me- but there were times I felt sad for myself. I felt pity for myself.

Pity for not being able to feel fulfillment or love for a certain man, affection to one particular person.

The one person I looked up to....

The one person who made me feel humane...

I clutched the bouquet tightly in my hands, the space in my heart growing a bit hollower as I stared at the tombstone.

Thomas Campbell.

Father-Husband-Son

"A thing is not necessarily true because a man dies for it."

― Oscar Wilde

What he died for... will forever remain a mystery to me.

Some said he died of a car crash, some said he died of falling from a bridge. I wouldn't know, I was only 7.

I closed my eyes, a drop of lone tear travelled down my cheek. The numbness whirling into an ocean of sadness as I stared at my father's grave.

It's been 13 years, yet still, his voice danced in my ears as if it had been yesterday when we had last spoken.

Then again, he probably would have hated to see what I had come to be.

After his untimely death, I was taken to an orphanage where I spent ten long years of my life.

"I miss you..." I whispered as I put the white peonies on his grave, my insides breaking.

A gust of cool breeze blew, ruffling my untamed hairs. It was quite bright outside; the autumn had come by sooner than I would have anticipated.

The sudden buzz of my phone broke me out of my reverie. Letting out a loud sigh, I fished it out from my pink scrub, only to find 20 missed calls.

My eyes drifted to the clock, it was 9:23 in the morning, I had to report at 10, meaning if I prolonged my visit any further, I would probably have an earful from the chief.

Also, I was to visit my new patient today.

A pang of bitterness crept into me as I let out a silent groan.

Now, I couldn't hide the fact that I was definitely not looking forward to this 24/7 personal nurse thing, but I needed it to boost my portfolio which could get me into my dream medical school. All of this money I had saved by the dint of my hard work and patience just to attend John Hopkins....

Yeah, so it would be amazing if everything turned out well.

"Goodbye dad..." I smiled, letting my eyes linger a bit more on the tombstone, "I hope you are happy, wherever you are."

A sense of longing filled my insides as I averted my gaze and opened the call log.

I did a double take as my brows furrowed. Most of the calls were from different unknown numbers, two were from the chief and three were from Brent, the guy I slept with yesterday.

I rolled my eyes. Was he attached? I thought I made it clear that it was a fling.

The hospital wasn't far, I would say a walking distance.

I was born and raised in Annapolis, as a result, most of the locales knew me.

They never missed passing me one or two disapproving looks or snide remarks whenever I appeared. They considered me as a depraved part of the already rotten society, men saw me as an easy fling, women saw me as a whore.

Not a person who would look at me like I was a human being.

I had long accepted the fact that I was to live my life like this, but still, I couldn't but regret the fact every single passing moment.

As I led myself through the sidewalk, I felt roaming eyes upon me. A lot of them probably recognized me...

"Isn't that the girl who slept with the barber last week?"

"She has no class, does she?"

"What a slut!"

"I bet she can sell herself to the whole town and not bat an eye..."

Every. Single. Fucking. Day.

I would hear these whispers and murmurs every day.

I would be lying if I said it didn't hurt but fuck it did.

I tried a lot of things to help myself- but then, in the end, I had to come in terms with the fact that my sexual appetite couldn't be helped. It was there, inside me, permanently.

As I grew older, I realized it was something natural that was in me. I had to have sex. I would get turned at the slightest provocation, the slightest touch was enough to make my pussy weep.

It was hard to come in terms with the fact that my body needed sex, craved sex constantly. It wasn't like I could turn it off like a switch.

Despite the mind-blowing sex with Dr. Johnson last night, I was still unsatisfied.

So, I spent half of the night fucking myself on a dildo imagining myself being touched, fucked in several different ways. By the end of it, I was exhausted.

"Hey, Adrianna!" An awfully familiar voice resonated through the murmurs and stifled gasps. I closed my eyes and let out a sigh.

Of all the people I had to run into.....

"Hello Mr. Burke," I mumbled, not interested to converse with him in the slightest bit.

David Burke was notorious in the area for his womanizing tendencies. I slept with him a year ago, for a couple of times. Regardless to say, he got attached to me and I wasn't exactly looking forward to a 45 year old guy claiming to be my regular fling. He was a beast in bed and outside of the bed. His presence alone was enough to make me uncomfortable.

I stopped it before it could get any further, but he didn't stop pinning after me.

Like a fucking leech.

"I heard you're applying to medical school," He rasped, licking his lips and eyeing me up and down lewdly. I scrunched my shoulder, meeting his eyes. He was probably an inch taller than me. I happened to be 5 foot 5 inch. So, he was probably 5 foot 6. His form was burly, hair greying.

Why did I sleep with him again?

"I am," I tried not to let my voice waver, "And why do you ask?"

His gaze fixated on my breasts, "Why do you need to apply for medical school, darling? You could just accept my offer to become my wife. Imagine the fun we can have...."

I was panicking.

Suddenly, the road that seemed full of people, started to look empty. I took account of the fact that how arid the sidewalk was. I took a step back, then two- beads of sweat covering my forehead.

"You can satisfy my friends and me on a daily basis. I can get you whatever you want.... like your wildest fantasies."

I didn't want him near me.

I hated how my body warmed up at his words, I didn't want this at all. I hated this man's guts and I didn't want anything to do with him.

"Mr. Burke, I have already said I don't want to marry you, neither I don't want to do anything with you. Please leave."

He took a step towards me.

My heart did a leap as I started to look around, panic rushing through me.

"Now, darling, don't be fearful. We both know you want it, don't you? You are a slut and you love it-"

"I am not a slut!" The sudden burst of my pent-up anger caught me off guard. Nervously, I let my eyes wander to the man who was now alarmingly close to me.

For a moment, I contemplated whether I should run away or not. He would probably catch up to me.

I looked around helplessly, knowing that no one would come to my rescue.

I was pitiful.

"You think you are becoming something just because you are entering the medical field?" His brows were furrowed, eyes slowly turning into a shade of red. A mayhem havocked within me as alarm bells resonated in my ears. His gaze was cruel, predatory as he took a step to me.

"Mr. Burke-"

"Shut the fuck up!" He roared, making me freeze. I couldn't move, I couldn't talk. It was as if I was caught up between the middle of a blizzard.

"Why are you protesting huh?" He yanked me closer by gripping my forearm, pain shot through me as I closed my eyes, letting out a whimper, "We know you'll do anything for a good fuck. What's the problem huh?"

"Just because I sleep with a lot of people that doesn't mean I will sleep with a disgusting pig such as you." I gritted out, fixating him with a glare. Molten anger swirled inside me, burning my carapace from inside, "I do not consent to sleeping with you."

"You will sleep with anyone..." The bastard smirked, "What's wrong with me? You know I want you..."

"Let go of me!" I bellowed, struggling against his hold, "You perverted fuck!"

"Maybe I should remind you how much of a cock addict you are?" He smirked, the one that sent chills down my spine, "Wouldn't you like that Adrianna? Hm?"

"Let go of me..." I whispered, looking around frantically. How did the road become so solemn?

"Not so easy baby. I-"

"What's going on here?" The gruff female voice made him freeze. Taking the opportunity, I slipped away from his grip, looking around to discover my savior.

The old lady from the nearby bakery shop stood there, her eyes practically digging holes into his skull from under her glasses, a rolling pin in her hand.

Mrs. Alfred was also a long-time resident in this area. She owned one of the best bakeries in this town. As far as I had heard about her, she was cold and mostly unapproachable.

"I was just talking," Burke smiled coldly.

"She was saying 'no'," Mrs. Alfred replied, as if it was the most obvious thing in the world, "You were clearly forcing her. Go away."

"I don't understand why does she concern you," Burke mumbled, shooting her a glare, "Whatever bitch."

"This is not the last time baby.." Burke whispered, only for me to hear, "I am very convincing."

I shot him a glare as he turned and strode away.

Relief flooded within me as I let out a breath, my tense muscles relaxing.

For how long, how long do I have to endure this treatment?

"Are you okay?" Mrs. Alfred's calm voice made me look at her.

Never had I had a proper conversation with her. Never had I crossed paths with her, yet this lady, who is a stranger, a supposed 'cold and arrogant old lady' saved me from an impending danger.

The amount of gratefulness and appreciation I was feeling to this woman was beyond assessment.

I nodded, giving her a smile.

"Follow me," She commanded as she walked in her café that was at the right side of the sidewalk.

I followed her and walked in, the smell of freshly baked breads and cakes filling my senses.

"Take a seat," She pointed at an empty chair, "We open at 10, you can calm yourself down till then."

I flashed a smile her way. Sometimes people with the coldest hearts are more seraphic than those wearing smiles.

"Mrs. Alfred?" I called out, making her turn.

"Thank you so much!" I smiled broadly, watching her pupils dilate in what seemed like shock.

"Yeah whatever, help yourself with some cake and water, then get out," She grumbled, making me smile wider.

A piece of chocolate pastry was brought in by a waitress named Gianna soon after. I smiled to myself as I dug in, the delicious chocolate melting on my tongue.

____

I was 15 minutes late to my work.

Regardless to say, the chief wasn't very happy about it.

"I told you to come half an hour earlier, but no! You had to come 15 minutes late! Adrianna, I expect better performance from you!"

"I am sorry chief.." I mumbled, pretending to be guilty, "It won't happen again."

"It's Estevan, Adrianna!" The chief sighed, running his hand over his face, "Ares Estevan! You can't be late when it comes to him!"

"Mr. Adams, I think we should get going," Archer Estevan interrupted cutely, "My brother doesn't like impunctuality in general. It took me several days just to convince him to have someone look after him, these efforts can go in vain in matter of moments."

"Sure, of course!" Mr. Adams exclaimed, his voice like honey, contradicting his gruff voice from just a moment ago, "Adrianna, Mr. Estevan here will give you a brief tour of your new workplace and you will also be meeting Mr. Ares today. Please try not to do anything that might cost your reputation."

I huffed internally at the last sentence, rolling my eyes. I was a hundred and fifty percent sure that Ares Estevan was some old guy with a temper issue, considering that Archer himself looked around 25.

As long he was not some perverted old brat, I was fine with it. I could just keep my distance and serve him when the time came.

"Well then.." Archer nodded at me, his soft smile unwavering, "Allow me to guide you to the car. We can go over his condition and description there. You are free to decline anytime you want."

You aren't getting rid of me because I need this recommendation.

He guided me to his red Sedan, ushering me to the back seat.

He let himself beside me as he instructed the driver to take a specific route.

"I'm so sorry for hiring you for a hectic job such as this one in a very short notice," He gave me an apologetic smile, his grey eyes crinkling with kindness.

"It's not a problem," I smiled back nervously as my stomach did a flip, "I want to take a challenge as I am entering this field as a doctor. I should learn how to deal with all types of patients, shouldn't I?"

"True true..." He sighed, taking out a black file from the seat pocket, handing it over, "Go through it. Please don't hesitate to ask any questions you might have."

I nodded as I opened the file.

In block letters, everything about my patient was written.

Name: Ares Elliott Estevan.

His parents chose a good name for him, not gonna lie.

Age: 35

My mouth fell open as I took it in.

He wasn't an old man. 35 wasn't that old....

Or was it?

I took a glance at his brother who was now busy furiously typing away. Loose strands of curls fell over his forehead as his forehead was creased.

He looked hot.

And if he was this hot....

An older version of him....

I licked my lips as sinful thoughts began to cloud my head. I had a thing for older men. They were more mature, wiser and most importantly, hotter. Age did wonders to a man.

Then again, he could be completely opposite to his devilishly handsome brother. He could be lanky and malnourished. Not everyone was Johnny Depp or Henry Cavill.

I focused on the file as I let out a sigh.

Ethnicity: Spanish/ American.

Height: 6 feet 3.45 inch.

Weight: 220 lbs.

Fuck that's hotter.

My mouth fell open as I tried my hardest not to drool then and there.

Condition: Corneal abrasion, mild Parkinson disease.

Rx: Dr. Jonathon Green, Ph.D

My brows creased as I tilted the page, to find a prescription.

It contained some details about his corneal damage, how he was physically unable to have a cornea transplant as of now, how his eyesight was damaged by the broken shards of glasses 13 years ago. How he developed mild Parkinson disease and social anxiety disorder from abstaining himself from people for a long time.

Several diagnoses from different doctors throughout the years; psychiatrists, psychologists, ophthalmologists, orthopedists, even plastic surgeons. He suffered from a second degree burn from the crash.

He had gone through a lot.

"My brother shut everyone off after the accident, he doesn't attend meetings, he doesn't have a girlfriend, he doesn't go out. I am worried about him," Archer sighed, making the knot inside me tighter.

The warmth and the need of orgasm I was feeling a moment ago evaporated as genuine apprehension filled my core. I was truly worried about my new patient and how I was to handle the situation.

Next, a list of his diet and preferred meals was provided in detail. He was picky too when it came to food. He didn't like excessive spicy food, neither did he like bland food. He preferred Asian cuisine, but a bit more westernized version of the foods. He hated broccoli, he loved meat- preferably lamb.

"How is his eating habit?" I questioned Archer as the car swayed lightly as it ran along the road, "Does he eat regularly or skip meals often?"

"Uh- he is usually a voracious eater if the meal is good. If it isn't, he simply fires the chef."

I rolled my eyes.

This guy was pretentious! A person can make a mistake once, that doesn't necessarily mean that you would have to fire that person!

"He sounds amazing," I trailed off, sarcastically as I concentrated on the file.

A rich laughter filled the car, melting my insides. "Don't use that sarcasm in front of him. He might actually think he is amazing."

I chuckled, "Don't you want your brother to think that?"

"He already has a big ego; I don't see any reason to fuel it further."

I tilted the page and went through the section titled Employee Agreement

A numb pain crept in my temples as I went through it briefly.

"Was Ares always this uptight?" I mumbled.

"Not always..." My brows furrowed as I reread the clause saying "In case of flirting or wrongly touching the employer, the employee will be sacked immediately and will be red listed."

What did he think he was?

A god?

The old rich people like to think they are something just because they have money. Truth to be told, I was yet to come across one old and rich person who was actually very attractive.

I was pretty sure it was his ego talking.

He was probably some old wrinkly guy.

"He turned like this after my elder-" My head snapped to him as he shut his mouth, stopping himself from saying anything further.

"Elder?" I questioned, curiosity bubbling inside me.

"Nothing..." Archer gave me a tight smile, "Just know that this person wasn't always like this. He changed after the accident."

I nodded. The accident took his eyesight, the normalcy in his life. There was a possibility that he had developed a PTSD from this.

He was going to be one tough nut to crack.

"Oh look we are here.." Archer smiled as he looked out of the window.

Following his suite, I also peeked out. The sight alone sent a shiver down my spine.

"Calm -indeed the calmest- reflection might be better than the most confused decisions"

― Franz Kafka, The Metamorphosis

Metamorphosis (n): a change of the form or nature of a thing or person into a completely different one.

Adrianna's POV:

"So, you are saying everything here belongs to your family?" I exclaimed in awe as I took in the vast property, my eyes lingering on the scary looking mammon statue situated at both sides of the gates.

Archer chuckled, making me blush.

"We do own this property, yes," He nodded answering my questions.

The interior of the mansion was modernly decorated, beige and black themed. A stairway led to the second story. A chandelier hung from the ceiling. The curtains that were draped over the full-sized windows fluttered slightly as the warm autumn wind caressed the finesse.

"That is the kitchen," He pointed to the other side of the lobby which was an open area with a dining table enough to accommodate 10 people. A glass panel separated it from the living area. A small bar was attached to it, a wooden shelf displaying a variety of alcohols.

"The current chef is Atlas Demetrio; he is instructed to cook meals per Ares' wishes. If you feel like making any modification based on his health, you can request him to add or subtract anything."

I nodded, jutting it down in my small notebook.

"May I take a look around the kitchen?" I asked, fixing my glasses.

"Sure!" Archer led me to the kitchen, "Feel free to check anything."

The kitchen was neat and vast. It had wooden floor and another small chandelier hanging up from above.

"It works as a fire alarm if necessary." Archer answered, probably taking account of my surprise.

"You didn't provide me with his blood test report," I commented as I took a closer look at the counters. Everything was shockingly neat and by neat, I mean not a speck of dust anywhere neat.

"Oh, if you need it, I can provide it now," Archer muttered, "I think I forgot.'

"No worries," I let out a satisfied 'humph' as I shot him a friendly smile, "I need it before today's dinner. Need to check his HDL and LDL. Also, in the case of diabetes or any blood disease, we might have to bring a change in his diet."

"As far as I know, he is mostly healthy. He eats healthy, but his sugar intake is high. He has a sweet tooth."

"Bad," I chastised softly as I scribbled in my notepad, "Sugar is the reason behind major fatal diseases. Cardiovascular disease, obesity, diabetes, cancer- you name it,"

"Sure, doctor," His chuckle resonated through the empty kitchen. A blush crept up my cheeks as I realized the pseudonym he used for me.

Doctor.

"I'm not a doctor," I corrected him, "A nurse."

"But you will become a doctor soon, right?" Archer raised an eyebrow, smirking slightly,"I am pro-active."

Was he flirting with me?

I took a closer look at him.

Archer was definitely a looker. He had an olive skin, his curly hair was groomed and combed to perfection. A silver stud graced his ear, a shadow of beard dusted his sharp jawline. Long nose, plump lips- blue button up shirt; a pair of silvery grey eyes that was ever consuming, he was more than perfect.

But unfortunately, he just didn't fit my taste.

Something was definitely wrong with me.

"Well, good for Mr. Senior Estevan," I sighed as I closed the notebook, fixating him with a look, "He needs all the help he can manage."

Archer smiled.

"Now, where is my patient?" I huffed, "I need to have a talk with him."

"A talk?" Archer laughed nervously, looking almost guilty, "About that.....I don't think Ares will do that...."

I frowned, confusion swirling within me, "Why?"

"I actually didn't take his permission before assigning you..." Archer sighed, biting his lower lip, "He... might freak out."

Un.Fucking.Believable.

Just exactly what I was dealing with here?

The loud huff that escaped me, didn't exactly hid my shock or annoyance. I shut my notebook rather loudly, not breaking the glare; agitation dripping within me.

"Mr. Estevan, I highly suggest you to have this talk with my soon to be patient. I wish to feel like I am dealing with a 35 year old guy, not a toddler."

"Ms. Campbell, I don't want to cause any inconvenience for you," Ares' voice hardened as the warm look in his eyes suddenly melted into the greys, replacing it with something I could only describe as sternness, "But I am afraid that Ares is someone that will cause inconvenience for you. That was the part of your job description."

I let out a breath. He wasn't wrong.

"Also, you are free to leave if you think this job is too burdensome for you. I was honest with you and I expect you to retaliate."

It wasn't him who needed me.

It was I who needed this job.

I closed my eyes; my nerves set on fire as I took deep breaths.

For John Hopkins.

For my MD.

Determination filled my core as I opened my eyes, shrinking back as I was met with his glare.

I can do this.

"Mr. Estevan, I am sure that you are making a different meaning of my words," I looked around nervously, "It's not an inconvenience at all! I will try my best to look after Mr. Older Estevan, please count on me."

His glare vanished as it was replaced by a soft look, the usual smile was back on his lips, "I know you will. Time is all I am asking for; Ares might be uncomfortable around you."

"So, what do you suggest we do?" I questioned, genuinely curious.

"For now, you can observe him from afar and take notes about him. I will introduce you to him when the time is-"

"What is happening here?"

My soul left my body as I froze in my spot.

The voice was raspy, full of menace and was thrown across the mansion carelessly. It held power, dominance. It sent shivers down my spine.

Archer stiffened as his eyes widened, his smile falling immediately. He looked like a deer stuck in the headlights- reverting his gaze back and forth as his mouth opened and closed.

This person can't be that bad, can he?

Then again, I had the opportunity to observe some patients with anxiety up close. They live in their bubble; they have hard times adjusting with society. As a result, most of them behave aggressively and violently at the smallest issue.

Overthinking and constantly worrying about something that might not even come into play; that was them.

"Brother.." Archer mumbled, somewhat dazed, his gaze fixated behind me, "I was just-"

I heard a distinct sound of shoes and something else clicking on the ground, echoing throughout. The sound only increased the chaos unfurling within me.

I gulped.

"Doing things I don't permit?" The voice echoed again, this time, closer.

"I am sorry, I was just loo-"

"I asked you to stop bringing in nurses," The voice was probably now a meter or so away, it was still moving closer.

My muscles tensed, as if sensing the presence of something ominous.

Or it was probably me being overdramatic.

"I was worried, Ares," Archer sighed, briefly glancing at me, "Besides she is a capable nurse and she can handle-"

"I have already stated, do not interrupt in my life, Archer," The voice was now extremely close, so close that the warmth of his body threw my mind into a frenzy.

The clicks of shoes came to a halt as I let out a breath.

"Adrianna can help you-"

"Adrianna, huh?"

Some people are born to intimidate, to instill fear in other's mind; they have this menacing aura that makes you think twice before you speak with them. As of now, Ares Estevan sure seemed like one of them. His presence alone was menacing, fearful.

Was it a shield he built around himself to protect himself from everyone because of his anxiety or he was genuinely an asshole?

I let out a shocked gasp as I felt something hit my legs. It was light, but enough to startle me and snap me out of the brume of my thoughts.

I twirled around as a reflex action, only to come face to face with a tall man.

By tall, I mean this guy was tall. His documented height was 6 foot 3 inch. Only now I could understand how drastic of a height difference it was.

I gulped as I stared at his black shirt covered chest, not daring to look up, feeling more intimidated than ever.

I was used to having men in my presence, but this was the first time I was caught off guard. Maybe it was because I could sense the impending hatred I was about to receive or maybe it was because of the thrill of the challenge that came with this person.

But if I wanted this job, I had to overcome my fear sometime, right?

I gulped as I sucked in a harsh breath, calming my nerves and preparing myself for hearing a lecture.

His musky cologne filled my senses as I clenched my jaw, tried my hardest not to let myself be affected by it.

"Ares, Ms. Campbell is not like the other nurses, I have studied her profile. She is bright, young and diligent. She has some serious achievements-"

I felt a surge of power rush within me as Archer's voice hung in the air.

Ready to confront him, I looked up.

My self-restraints vanished into thin air as I took him in.

If I thought Archer was hot, this man was the freaking sun. They weren't joking when they added the clause "Employees are not to behave inappropriately."

Ares Elliott Estevan was definitely not an old, wrinkly guy. He stood tall, proud- his shoulders were broad. Unlike his brother, who's hair was styled neatly, his hair was rather messy. It was slightly long, curly, as black as the carapace of the night. I could make out a grey hair or two dusting his temple.

His features were sharp but blank and had unusual coldness in them. His nose sharp, the shadow of age making him look more mature and graceful.

I was suddenly reminded why I was into older men.

His lips were plump, his jawline sharp and neatly carved stubbles graced it.

Among all these beautiful features this man possessed, his eyes stood out the most.

A strand or two hair fanned his forehead; from under which, his eyes peeked. His right eye was smoky grey that mirror Archer.

The left eye however, was black.

Two different colored irises, one black and another gray. His eyes were as empty as his features as they met their gaze into the void of nothingness.

He wore a loose black shirt, his hands rested....

My gaze travelled down.

A stick.

He held a long, black stick. It was carved in different designs. A skull imprinted at the end of it, his hands resting on top of it.

Yes, he was extremely hot, but I must remain professional for the sake of my recommendation.

Recommendation means good portfolio and good portfolio means John Hopkins.

I let out a breath I didn't realize I was holding, my nerves relaxing a little. Plastering a rigid smile, I extended my hand to him, in order to maintain my good aura.

The moment my eyes fell upon his, I knew this man will wreak havoc in my mind, fucking up my resolution. He was annoyingly handsome, I wanted to fuck him and get him out of my system already, I couldn't do that either because I had this agreement. Also, he seemed like a class A prick.

Was I going to put up with him for the sake of that one extra ECA?

Yes, absolutely.

"Hello, I am Ad-"

"You're fired."