One Night With Nicholas Reid

KIMBERLY

The shrill ring of my alarm jolted me awake, and I shot up in bed, my heart pounding. A quick glance at my phone made my stomach drop.

"Crap! I'm late!"

I tossed the covers off, rushing into the bathroom. No time for a proper shower-I splashed cold water on my face, brushed my teeth like my life depended on it, and yanked a brush through my tangled hair.

A glance in the mirror made me wince. Dark circles under my eyes, hair half-tamed...not exactly my best look. But there was no time to worry about that now.

Grabbing whatever clothes I could find, I threw them on-thank God it was casual Friday. Sneakers instead of heels today.

I shoved a granola bar into my bag and sprinted out the door, praying I'd somehow make it to the office without looking completely disheveled.

I hopped into my car and drove as fast as I could.

"Ugh! Move your damn car you c*nt!" I yelled out in frustration to the driver in front of me. He was too slow.

The streets were already busy, which only added to my already built-in frustration. Why did it feel like every car, every pedestrian was out to slow me down today?

By the time I finally burst into the office building, I was breathless, my shirt slightly wrinkled, and my hair a complete mess. Great. Just great.

As I pushed through the doors, I immediately noticed something was off. The usual hum of the office was replaced with... laughter? Excited chatter?

I frowned, walking in to find balloons, streamers, and a crowd gathered around Jessica's desk.

"What the-?" I muttered, trying to catch my breath. Did I miss some kind of memo?

Before I could process what was happening, Jessica spotted me from across the room. Her eyes lit up, and she rushed over, practically bouncing with excitement.

"Kimberly! You're finally here!" she exclaimed, grabbing my arm and pulling me toward the crowd.

"Wait-what's going on?" I asked, still a little dazed from my frantic morning.

Jessica grinned from ear to ear. "I got promoted! Can you believe it? I'm officially the new Senior Marketing Manager!"

The pieces clicked into place, and I felt a wave of guilt for not remembering sooner.

Jessica had been working her ass off for this promotion, staying late almost every night. I should've been more prepared to celebrate, not showing up like a tornado that just ripped through a thrift store.

"That's amazing, Jess!" I said, forcing a smile despite my internal chaos. "You deserve it!"

"I know, right?" She was practically glowing with excitement. "We're going out tonight to celebrate. Club Vortex. And you, my dear, are definitely coming."

I blinked, still trying to recover from my mad dash to the office. "Uh, I don't know if-"

"No excuses," Jessica cut me off, waving her hand dismissively. "You've been cooped up for too long. You need to let loose. Trust me, it's going to be fun."

I sighed, running a hand through my already messy hair. "Fine, fine. I'll be there."

"Good," she said with a wink. "And tonight, you're not allowed to be the responsible one. It's time for you to let go for once."

I laughed softly, shaking my head. "Yeah, we'll see about that."

Jessica gave me a playful nudge before returning to her sea of congratulations.

Just then, Katie, one of the random workers at the office called out to me.

"Miss Ross, your attention is needed in the file room." She said.

"Fine. I'll be there shortly".

Hours later...

4:30pm...

"Hey, don't forget about the celebration tonight, Kim. At the club." Jessica said as she escorted me to my car.

"Do I really have to? I mean, they literally threw a party for you to celebrate."

"Come on, don't be a party pooper. Loosen up. Let's have some fun."

"But-"

"No buts. Infact, I'm gonna follow you home."

"Why?"

"To ensure that you'll follow me out to celebrate."

"Jess, I-"

"Nuh-uh." Jessica said, while nodding. "Let's go."

She entered the passenger's seat of my car.

I smacked my palm on my forehead in frustration.

"Ugh! You're unbelievable!" I said, annoyed.

"That's why you love me. Drive. Let's go to your house."

"Fine." I said, as I revved up the engine and drove off swiftly.

Soon, we arrived at my place.

"Hmm... cozy as always." Jessica said, as she sat on my sofa. She stared at me smugly. "Don't just stand there! Get dressed!"

I sighed.

"But, I don't have anything to wear."

Jessica scoffed. "You're kidding right?"

She walked towards my closet and started shuffling through my clothes.

"No... nah... this one is dead already... too casual... not club material... She continued to say, as she threw the clothes on my bed.

Jessica stopped, eyes wide as she pulled out a sleek, crimson dress. Her jaw practically dropped.

"Oh my God! Kim! You have this dress!? It's sexy asf!"

I glanced at the dress, already feeling my face heat up. "It's not really my style. It'll show too much skin, Jess."

She held the dress up in front of me, Red, and extremely short. The thin spaghetti straps and dangerously low back caught the light. "Um, hello? You're going to a club, not some church or something..."

"Jess!" I protested, shaking my head.

"What?" She rolled her eyes, pushing the dress against my body. "Wear this. In fact, you don't have a say. You're wearing this."

"But-"

"No buts!" She shoved the dress into my hands, crossing her arms. "Trust me, you're gonna look hot."

I hesitated, glancing at the plunging neckline and how the fabric clung in all the right places.

"Jess, this is... a bit much."

"Exactly. It's the point. Now go change before I make you!"

"Fine!"

I stared at myself in the mirror, unsure if this was really happening. The dress was nothing short of scandalous, the deep red fabric clinging to every inch of my body, exposing more skin than I ever thought I'd show.

Jessica's eyes gleamed as she stepped back to admire me. "Damn, Kim. You look incredible. Seriously. You could shut down the entire club in that."

I tugged at the hem, trying to cover more, but it was useless. "This feels... too much."

She laughed. "Too much? You'll be the hottest girl in the club. Trust me."

I bit my lip, my nerves still getting the better of me. "And what are you wearing?"

Jessica grinned and pulled a sleek black mini dress from her bag. "I always come prepared. Had a spare dress in case of emergencies. Mind if I borrow a pair of your shoes?"

"Yeah, sure," I mumbled, still not fully convinced by my own reflection.

She quickly slipped into her dress and found a pair of heels from my closet, effortlessly pulling off the look like she'd been planning it all along.

"Alright," she said, twirling the car keys in her hand. "Let's go."

I nodded affirmatively, and we hurried out the door, entered the car and drove off.

The cool night air hit my bare skin.

"This is going to be a long night." I muttered silently.

KIMBERLY

Soon, we arrived at the club. Club Vortex.

The moment we stepped inside, the air hit me like a wave-a mix of sweat, perfume, alcohol, and something else entirely.

The loud music pounded through the speakers, vibrating the walls and floor. Neon lights flashed erratically, casting a dizzying glow over the packed dance floor.

People were everywhere, grinding against each other in a frenzy. Bodies pressed together so tightly it was hard to tell where one person ended and another began.

Some couples were making out openly in dark corners, while others moved in sync to the heavy beats, completely lost in the moment.

I felt a knot of discomfort twist in my stomach. This wasn't the kind of atmosphere I was used to. Sure, I'd been out before, but this... this felt different, wilder, more intense.

Jessica grabbed my arm, pulling me out of my thoughts. "Hey, come on! Dance!" she shouted over the music, giving me an encouraging nudge.

But I didn't move.

"I... I think I'll just have a drink instead," I replied, my voice barely audible over the pounding music.

Jessica rolled her eyes, still bouncing to the rhythm. "Really? A drink? Let's dance first! We're here to celebrate!"

I shook my head, my nerves getting the better of me. "I'm not feeling it, Jess."

Her brow furrowed as she sized me up. Then, with a mischievous glint in her eyes, she leaned in closer. "You know what, Kim?"

"What?" I asked, already dreading whatever was about to come out of her mouth.

"I think you need to get laid."

"Jess!" I shot her a sharp look, but she just laughed.

"What? You know I'm right!" She shrugged, completely unbothered by my reaction.

"When was the last time you had some sex?"

I opened my mouth to argue, but nothing came out. I couldn't even remember the last time I had it.

My mind immediately went to Leo, my ex. It had been three years since we broke up, and that was the last time I'd been with anyone. The realization hit me like a truck.

Jessica noticed my silence and smirked. "See? You can't even remember. You need a hot guy for the night."

"Come on, Jess," I said, sighing. "I don't think-"

"Nope," she cut me off sternly. "You're gonna get laid tonight. I'll find a hot guy for you."

Before I could protest again, Jessica grabbed my hand and dragged me toward the bar.

The crowd parted just enough for us to make it through, and the bartender, a tall guy with tattoos and a nose ring, gave us a nod.

"What'll it be, ladies?"

"A shot of tequila for her!" Jessica shouted, pointing at me, while I stood there, unsure whether I should fight her on this or just go along with it.

"Here". The bartender said, placing a shot before me.

I looked at the shot of tequila in front of me, hesitating. "Jess, I really don't think this is a good idea."

"Oh, come on!" she groaned, rolling her eyes. "It's just one shot, Kim. Live a little!"

I glanced at the golden liquid, then back at her. "I don't know..."

"Kimberly," she said, narrowing her eyes like a stern mother. "You're taking this shot, and that's final. Stop overthinking everything."

"Fine." I finally gave in, grabbing the glass and downing the tequila in one quick motion. The burn hit my throat, making me wince as I slammed the empty glass back on the bar.

"See? That wasn't so bad," Jessica smirked. "Now, let's get you another-"

Suddenly, I felt it. That unmistakable sensation of someone watching me. I instinctively glanced around and locked eyes with him.

A man.

He sat at the far end of the club, leaning back in a corner booth with an air of authority that immediately caught my attention. He wasn't like the other guys here, no drunk frat boys or overly eager men chasing women.

He looked... different. His black button-down shirt was unbuttoned just enough to reveal a hint of muscle underneath, and his sharp jawline, chiseled features, and piercing blue eyes made it impossible to look away.

He was casually talking with two men in suits, discussing something that looked far too serious for a club atmosphere. What business would men like that be doing here?

I quickly turned my face away, suddenly feeling self-conscious under his intense gaze.

As I tried to brush it off, the bartender returned, sliding another shot in front of me. "This one's on him," he said, nodding toward the man in the corner.

My eyes widened. "Wait, what?"

"And he's paid for all your drinks tonight. Both of you," the bartender added, a small grin on his face. "But he requests that you see him in return."

Jessica's jaw dropped, and she let out a loud squeal. "Finally! You're getting laid!"

I nudged her sharply. "Jess, stop!"

But she was already so drunk, swaying on her feet and grinning like a Cheshire cat. "Look at him, Kim. Just look at him! He's gorgeous. He looks rich. And he's totally into you! What more do you need?"

I bit my lip, feeling a little lightheaded from the tequila. "I don't know... This feels weird."

Jessica leaned in closer, her breath smelling like alcohol. "Kim, this is exactly what you need. A hot, mysterious man. You gotta go talk to him."

I glanced back at him, and sure enough, he was still watching me with those intense eyes, waiting. My stomach flipped.

"Jess, I really shouldn't-"

"Go!" she urged, practically pushing me forward. "I'd hit that if I were you. He's hot. Like, ridiculously hot."

"Fine," I muttered, standing up.

Jessica cheered behind me as I slowly made my way toward him, feeling the weight of every step. As I approached, the two men in suits noticed me and immediately stood up, excusing themselves. The man dismissed them with a simple nod, leaving just the two of us.

I hesitated for a moment, feeling out of my depth.

"What's a handsome businessman like you doing in a club?" I asked, the words slipping out before I could stop them. The tequila was definitely loosening my tongue.

His lips curved into a small, amused smile as he leaned forward slightly. "And what's a beautiful woman like you doing avoiding all the fun?"

I blinked, momentarily caught off guard by his boldness. "I... I don't usually do this."

"Neither do I," he replied, his voice smooth as silk. "But tonight is an exception."

I could feel my pulse quicken as his gaze traveled over me, lingering just a second too long on the dress that still made me feel far too exposed.

He leaned closer.

"You look extremely sexy in that dress." He whispered in my ear.

I swallowed hard, suddenly aware of how close he was. His voice, his presence-it was intoxicating, overwhelming even. It made me feel giddy.

I tried to say some words, but they weren't forming.

"Do you want to go somewhere less noisy?" He asked, jolting me out of my thoughts.

"Y...yeah" I said, almost stammering.

"Come with me". He said seductively, as he stood up.

I obeyed, and followed him.

NICHOLAS

"Dammit!" I growled, my hands still stinging from the impact on the desk. The thought of my father looming over my career, forcing me into something as ridiculous as marriage, sent a wave of anger through me. I wasn't ready to have some wife by my side, let alone be told to do so just to keep a job I'd earned.

I paced back and forth, staring at the cityscape through my office window. My thoughts raced, and just as I tried to calm down, there was a soft knock on the door.

"Sir... is something wrong?" Noelle, my assistant's voice came from the doorway.

I turned around sharply. "Get out! Now!" My voice echoed through the room, harsher than I intended, but I was in no mood for distractions.

Noelle flinched, her eyes wide with shock. "I'm sorry, sir." She hurried out of the office without another word.

I ran my hands through my hair, exhaling sharply. This entire situation was ridiculous. The board was breathing down my neck, questioning my leadership because of some archaic family rule that the CEO had to be married.

I became the CEO of Reid Global Enterprises last year, not because I was married, but because I earned it-because I was the best man for the job. But now, with the board and my meddling cousin Simon angling to take over, my father had started getting ideas.

Just as my frustration peaked, the door to my office swung open again. This time, my father strode in with his usual air of authority, unbothered by the fact that he hadn't knocked. His presence filled the room immediately.

"Nicholas," he said, his voice deep and firm. "We need to talk."

I groaned inwardly. I knew exactly where this was going. "I already know what you're going to say."

He raised an eyebrow, unimpressed. "Then it should save us time."

I crossed my arms, trying to stay calm. "You want me to step down and let Simon take over, right? Because he's married."

My father's expression darkened. "I don't want that any more than you do, Nicholas. But the board is pushing for it. You know the tradition-"

"Tradition?" I cut in, my voice rising. "This is business, not some ancient family fairytale. I don't need a wife to run a multi-billion-dollar company!"

He sighed, stepping closer to my desk. "Like it or not, the board still values that tradition. It's not just about appearances, Nicholas. It's about stability. About legacy. You've been avoiding this for too long."

I clenched my jaw, glaring at him. "And what do you suggest I do? Rush out and marry the first woman I meet? You're being unreasonable."

My father's eyes hardened. "You have one month. Either you find yourself a wife, or I will have no choice but to agree with the board. You'll step down, and Simon will take your place."

My chest tightened. "A month? Are you serious?"

He nodded, his expression unyielding. "One month, Nicholas. That's all the time I can give you."

With that, he turned and left my office, leaving me speechless and furious.

I stared after him, my mind reeling. One month. One damn month to find a wife or lose everything I had worked for. I ran my hands over my face, trying to steady my breathing.

"Noelle!" I barked, summoning her back.

She appeared cautiously at the door, her eyes still somewhat wary from earlier. "Yes, sir?"

"Reschedule all my remaining appointments for today," I snapped. "Push them to next week."

"Of course, sir," she said quietly and quickly left.

I grabbed my suit storming out of the office. My mind was too clouded with anger and frustration to focus on anything else. I had to get out of there. The drive home felt longer than usual, my thoughts spinning in a chaotic loop. But just as I pulled into my estate, my phone rang.

I glanced at the screen. Henry Blackwell. One of the most critical investors at the company.

"Henry," I answered, trying to keep my voice steady.

"Nicholas," he said, his voice calm but with a severe edge. "I've heard some rumblings about the board. We need to talk. Meet me at Club Vortex in an hour."

I frowned. "Club Vortex? Isn't that a bit...?"

"Just meet me there," he interrupted. "It's important."

I sighed. "Fine. I'll be there."

I had no time to change, so I drove straight to the club. When I arrived, the neon lights flickered against the dark streets, and the heavy bass of the music inside was already vibrating through the walls. Club Vortex wasn't exactly my scene, but Henry knew the business world in ways most didn't, so I followed his lead.

Inside the VIP lounge, we discussed the board's growing pressure. Henry was blunt, advising me to play my cards carefully. His tone was serious, but what caught my attention wasn't the conversation.

It was her.

Across the lounge, my eyes locked on a young woman in a sexy red dress. She stood out in the dimly lit room, her figure confident, but her expression seemed distant, lost in her thoughts. And then, for a brief moment, her gaze met mine. She quickly looked away, but I was already intrigued.

I signaled the bartender, ordering drinks for her and her friend. If anything, I needed a distraction from the chaos in my life.

A few moments later, she received the drinks and glanced in my direction. The bartender whispered something to her, and she hesitated, her friend nudging her. Slowly, she stood up and walked over to where I sat.

"I'll see you later". Henry said and stood up to leave, together with his bodyguard. I gave him an affirmative nod before he left.

When she reached me, she leaned against the table, her eyes scanning me carefully. "What is a handsome businessman like you doing in a club?" she asked, her voice smooth but with a hint of curiosity.

I smirked, leaning back in my seat. "And what is a beautiful woman like you doing avoiding all the fun?"

Her lips parted slightly, taken aback by my response. There was something about her-shy, yet bold. Her eyes flickered, and momentarily, I could see her trying to figure me out.

"Do you want to go somewhere less noisy?" I asked, my voice dropping slightly.

She glanced around the crowded club, then nodded, biting her lower lip. "Y...yeah."

I stood, offering her my hand, and without a second thought, she took it.