The club blasted with energy, the heavy bass pulsating through my body as flashing neon lights painted the room in shades of blue and crimson. The air was filled with sweat, alcohol, and the strong scent of expensive cologne mixed with cigarette smoke. People moved in a chaotic yet sync rhythm, lost in the rush of the music.
I swayed my hips to the beat, each movement seductive and effortless. The strapless silver gown I wore clung to my curves like a glove, glittering under the gleam lights as I danced. The silky fabric ended just below my ass, revealing just the right amount of skin. I felt the piercing of countless eyes on me, but one particular gaze burned deeper than the rest.
From the far end of the VVIP section, a man lounged on a deluxe black leather couch. Even in the dimly light space, I could see the smug expression on his face. He looked like he exuded power, a dark and arrogant confidence. Two barely dressed women danced over him, their hands caressing his exposed chest. His shirt slightly open, revealing toned abs, I looked away quickly to avoid patronizing his ego with a second glance.
The endless stares, the jealous gaze from other women, it wasn't my fault I was a walking masterpiece with flawless skin. Legs for days.
A face that made men worship and women hate.
The DJ mixed into a new track and the atmosphere in the club shifted instantly.
The crowd burst into excited screams. Twerk by City Girls featuring Cardi B. My song.
A slow grin crept across my lips as my knees dropped low, hands resting on my upper thighs. My ass moved to the beat, rolling and swaying with seamless grace. The crowd on the dance floor parted as people stepped back, giving me the space I needed. Cheers and claps erupted.
I flipped my long, silky hair to the side, the best on the music pulsating through me. The flashing lights illuminated the arch of my back. My dress rode up slightly, but I carried on. The energy was intoxicating, and I owned the night.
After a few more moves, I strolled off the dance floor, heart pounding but my poise intact. My heels clicked against the glossy floor as I settled onto a barstool.
"Vodka" I yelled over the music, barely glancing at the bartender.
I dropped my pulse on the counter, waiting patiently for my drink.
"Your salary won't be enough for a night" I said to the bartender who has trying to make a move on me. I watched amusement flicker in his eyes before embarrassment took over. He didn't look familiar, he was definitely new otherwise he'd know not to speak to me.
Barely clad girls pushed through the club serving drinks, others offering special services. The scene was familiar, it was the usual in the club. What was predictable though was him, the man in the VVIP section.
He was still watching me.
Even with the dim flickering lights, I could feel the weight of his stare. The intensity sent a strange thrill through me, but I ignored it.
I gulped down my drink still watching me. He waved down one of the men standing beside and whispered to him
I knew trouble when I saw it.
A few seconds later, the man approached me, dressed in a sleek black suit. He was one of the security detail of the club.
"Hey, pretty" he called.
I barely glanced at him before rolling my eyes. I gestured the bartender to pour me another glass.
"Someone would love to speak with you" he pressed.
I ignored him.
The man huffed in frustration. "I mean Lewis Bradford would love to speak to you" he repeated, this time with an air of confidence.
I froze for half a second before turning to him with a sly smile.
"Lewis who?" I sneered. "I don't who that is and frankly do not care. Fuck you and fuck your boss"
His face twisted in shock, embarrassment and disbelief creeping like he couldn't someone dismissing the name. The surrounding crowd had started paying attention.
With a lowered gaze he turned and walked off.
"You do know who he is, right?" the bartender muttered, his eyes wide with shock. "You just told Lewis Bradford to fuck off"
"atleast his own salary can pay you for a year" he teased with a scornful chuckle
"Mind your business dude"
"Hey, princess"
The deep voice sent a chill down my spine. Regal, commanding. Him.
I turned slowly to face the man from the VVIP section. Up close, I could finally see him clearly. Chiseled jawline, piercing brown eyes, a smirk that screamed power. He radiated dominance, the kind of presence that intimated men.
"I'd love to take you with me" he said, the gaze of his eyes gaze trailed down my body.
I scoffed, turning my attention back to my drink. "I'm not interested"
Suddenly, a firm hand gripped my arm, yanking me roughly toward him.
"I'm talking to you" he thundered, his voice cutting through the loud music and drawing the attention of people.
The chatter died and all eyes locked at us curiously.
I bit down on my lower lip, my blood boiling. My hands balled into tight fists, nails digging into my palm.
.
My right palm rested on his face, the crack sound of my skin against his shattered the air
The entire club fell into stunned silence. Eyes widened, mouths gasped.
For fuck sake, I punched a man not a god.
But from the looks on their faces I might as well have.
I looked up and met his heat flashed eyes, filled with rage. A second later, a woman in a black leather mini skirt and a maroon tube top strutted toward him, her heels clicking against the club floor.
"Baby, are you okay?" she cooed, her voice dripping with fake concern.
Then she turned to me, fury flashing across her heavily made-up face.
"You bitch! How dare you"
Her hand shot up, aiming for my cheek, but I was faster. I caught her wrist mid-air, holding it firm. She struggled to let go, her expression shifting from anger to confusion.
I tilted my head, giving her a mocking look. "I will like to believe you have insurance?"
"Huh?" she blinked
Before she could react, I twisted her arm back in one swift motion. She let out a sharp scream, her square shaped painted nails clawing at the air.
I smirked.
Snatching my purse from the counter, I turned on my heels and walked away. The club still dead silent from the scene. But just before stepping out I paused, glancing back at the woman still nurturing her wrist.
"Oh, and work harder you definitely need a face lift"
The cab ride home was uneventful and as soon as I stepped inside, I slammed the door shut, kicked off my heels and tossed my purse onto the couch. Exhaustion washed over me as I sank onto the couch, letting out a deep breath.
The events at the club replayed in my mind. Who the hell did that jerk think he was? Sure he was to die for... breathtakingly handsome, tall and exuding wealth and power but that didn't mean he could grab me like I was some toy. And that girl?
BOOM!
I fell off the couch with a loud thud, hitting my butt hard against the hardwood floor.
Laughter filled the room.
"That's what you get for leaving the house without telling me!"
I looked up to see Baby,my younger sister standing there, arms crossed, grinning like she had just won a lottery
"Baby!" I groaned
Lorna that's her real name but she's been 'Baby' ever since our late parents started calling her that. She was seventeen, but the way she acted sometimes? She might as well be my mother
She covered her mouth, trying to stifle her giggles. "Sorry Sis"
Then, her expression turned serious. "Don't tell me you went to the club again"
I sighed, rubbing my face.
She hated my lifestyle. Honestly? I did too. But what choice did I have? It was the fastest way to make money and keep us both afloat.
"I'm sorry Baby. I know I promised I'd stop, but.."
"..it's the only way to make quick money and pay our debts" She finished my sentence for me.
I nodded, guilt pressing down on my chest.
She knelt beside me, taking my hands in hers. "I know you do this for me. You want us to have a comfortable life, but I'll never be happy knowing what you do. Please... go for a more decent job"
I swallowed hard.
"Baby, I've been trying but I haven't found any with a good pay too"
"That's why I helped out" She squeezed my hand. "You have an interview tomorrow" her lips curved in a proud smile
I blinked. "An interview? Where?"
"B Corporation. The CEO needs a personal assistant, and the pay is really good"
I hesitated.
"Please,do this for me"
Looking into her hopeful eyes, I sighed. "Alright. I'll go"
She beamed, hugging me tightly.
Morning Madness
Rrrrrrr! Rrrrrrrrr!
Oh, for the love of God.
I stretched out a hand, grabbed the alarm clock, and chucked it at the wall.
Silence.
Perfect.
I snuggled back into the duvet.
SPLASH!
I shot up
"Baby!!!" I screamed, shivering.
"Rise and shine, Sis! It's work time!" she squealed, bouncing on her feet like an excited child.
Silly girl.
She was seventeen, but I swear, she acted like my mother sometimes.
I groaned, dragging myself off the bed and into the bathroom. Grabbing my toothbrush, I started my morning routine. Once I was done, I stripped off my nightwear and let the warm water from the shower wash over me, easing the tension in my muscles.
Stepping out, I wrapped a towel around myself and sat in front of my dressing table, applying a light lotion to my skin. My wardrobe was a mess-and I had nothing decent to wear.
Just as I was about to give up, Baby walked in, holding out a cream-colored corporate gown and a blue blazer jacket.
"Lorna, always at your service," she said, grinning.
I smirked. "You're a lifesaver."
Dressed and ready, I tied my hair into a sleek ponytail, did minimal makeup, and slipped into my cream-colored wedges.
I grabbed my bag and files, then checked my wristwatch. 7:10 AM.
"Shit."
I needed to move.
I hailed a cab, practically jumping in.
"Go, go!" I urged.
The driver raised an eyebrow. "Where to, miss?"
I blinked. Right. Destination.
"Just keep driving."
A beat of silence.
"Wait! Take me to B Corporation."
The driver glanced at me through the rearview mirror. "You mean the Bradford Corporation?"
I hesitated. B... Bradford?
"B Corporation, dude," I stressed, ignoring the twist in my gut.
Minutes later, the cab pulled up in front of a massive glass skyscraper. It was imposing, sleek, and screamed money.
"Miss,my money?" the driver called.
I scoffed. "Seriously? Do we have to pay for everything in this country?" I rolled my eyes but handed him the cash.
As he drove off, I suddenly froze.
My files.
"Shit!"
Dropping my bag, I ran after the cab, practically slamming my palm against the door. The driver stopped, and I snatched my files from the backseat before banging the door shut.
I inhaled deeply. Then exhaled.
Time to get this job.
Inside, I took the elevator to the 12th floor. 7:58 AM. Two minutes to spare.
I rushed into the CEO's department, spotting several other women seated-competitors.
They shot me dirty glares.
Jealous much? I smirked.
"Miss Priynka Wald?" a middle-aged woman called.
I stood, adjusted my dress, and walked in.
The office was huge. Behind the desk, a man sat, head bent over a file. His nameplate read:
Lewis Bradford.
Oh, hell no.
"So, you're Priynka Wald. 23 years old," he said without looking up.
"What makes you think you're fit to be my PA?"
I smirked. "Because I'm Priynka Wald."
A beat.
"You got the job. Get out!"
I turned, muttering, "Dumbass."
"What was that?" he called.
I walked out of the office, ignoring him. My heels clicked against the marble floor, each step echoing my determination.
"Oh, congrats, dear. I hope you stay for a while," a cheerful voice chimed in, pulling my attention.
I turned to see a woman with chestnut-brown hair styled into a neat bun. Her face was warm, with a kindness that stood out against the cold, corporate air.
"I'm Mrs. Brittney," she added, her ruby-red lips stretching into a welcoming smile.
She guided me down the sleek hallway, the faint scent of lavender trailing behind her. When we reached my office, I couldn't hide my surprise-it was enormous. The polished mahogany desk gleamed under the soft golden lights, and floor-to-ceiling windows offered a breathtaking view of the city skyline.
I ran my fingers along the cool surface of the desk, letting the reality sink in.
I got the job. Baby will be so excited.
LEWIS'S POV
I leaned back in my leather chair, tapping my pen against the edge of her thin personnel file. It was nearly empty no work history worth mentioning.
Why did I hire her? I hadn't even seen her face properly.
I tossed the file aside and let my mind drift. Then, like a spark catching dry wood, an image flashed her.
The girl from the club.
She had been a vision long, dark hair that cascaded down her back, curves in all the right places, and those fiery eyes that dared to challenge me. But that wasn't what got under my skin. It was the way she rejected me..bold, unyielding.
No one had ever said no to me. Not in my twenty-seven years. And she had the audacity to hit me.
I clenched my jaw. Whoever she is, I'm going to make her life unworthy.
My phone buzzed on the desk. KIM. I scoffed.
Girls like her were all the same..eager, predictable, and desperate for my attention. Just a little money and a pretty face, and they were crawling.
I declined the call and reached for the phone on my desk, my voice cold and sharp.
"My office. Now."
I waited, but she didn't show. My patience thinned. I pressed the line again.
"I said,now"
Still nothing. Irritation burned through me like a slow flame. I grabbed the stack of files and stormed toward her office, each step hard and deliberate.
I shoved the door open without knocking.
"What the-"
The words caught in my throat.
There she was head down on the desk, sleeping.
I marched toward her, slamming my palm against the desk. The loud bang echoed through the office.
Her head snapped up. She blinked a few times, brushing strands of silky hair from her face. Then her eyes locked with mine, those same fierce eyes.
Her.
"YOU!" we both said in unison, shock flashing between us.
I quickly masked my surprise with a frown.
"Well, well..." I drawled, leaning against her desk. "Look who we have here."
She was even more stunning in daylight. My gaze drifted downward, her dress clung to her curves, and the first two buttons hung undone, teasing me with a glimpse of soft skin.
She leaned back in her chair, crossing her legs with a slow, deliberate grace. A light smile touched her lips..confident, teasing.
Damn. Even her attitude was intoxicating. But I wouldn't let her off that easily. Not after the stunt she pulled.
Priynka's POV
I leaned back into my chair, crossing my legs with deliberate slowness. Letting him simmer.
"So, it's you" I feigned surprise.
He tucked his hands into the pocket of his pants, his tailored suit stretching over his toned frame. "Yeah and I'm the boss. Here, there,anywhere" His voice dripped with arrogance.
I pushed myself up from the chair and walked toward him, each step measuring his expression. I stopped just inches from him and reached up, brushing invisible dust from his shoulder.
"Keep the arrogance behind your sleeves, boss" I said, stressing the word with a smirk. "I'm here to work"
His jaw tightened but he didn't move. I could feel the tension crackling in the air.
He said nothing as he shoved a stack of papers at me.
"Duplicate these. And make me a coffee" he snapped before turning on his heel and slamming the door shut behind him.
Jerk!
I rolled my eyes, bent down to pick up the files and made my way to the copier.
As the machine hummed softly, I overheard a group of women chatting near the break area.
"The new PA won't last a week" one sneered.
"The last one didn't survive three days"
"He probably fires them after they warm his bed"
"I wouldn't mind a night with him" another giggled. "Lewis Bradford is every girl's dream" she sighed loudly "rich,handsome and smart"
I strolled past them without a word, shooting them each a pointed glare.
Returning to his office, I placed the documents and a cup of freshly brewed coffee on his desk.
He took a sip, then scowled.
"What is this? Can't you even make a simple cup of coffee? What can you do? twerk?" he sneered.
I faked a sweet smile, picked up the cup and walked out.
A few minutes later, I returned with a new cup and a new one after that.
He took another sip and hissed "Are you trying to burn my throat?"
I arched a brow. "Hurts, doesn't it? That's exactly how my feet hurts from running around"
I stormed out, my heels clicking sharply against the polished marble floor, leaving him to drown in his arrogance.
The day dragged on, each passing hour stretching my patience thinner. Not a single call from him, not that I was waiting. I buried myself in work, my fingers flying across the keyboard reading the entails of my duties, Mrs. Brittney sent the details to the laptop assigned to me. The job came with a work ipad and wardrobe allowance and a few other privileges if need be, Lorna outdid herself with this one. The sun dipped low on the horizon, signaling the end of the day.
Stepping out of the towering glass building, I flung my arms into the crisp evening air inhaling deeply as if freedom itself had a scent. Fresh, unburdened and sweet against my senses.
A taxi slowed to a stop in front of me. I hesitated, a wild impulse flickering through my mind. A night out, loud music, flashing lights was exactly what I needed to shake off the weight of the day. But the thought of my baby sister waiting at home tugged at my heart. I couldn't disappoint her. Not tonight.
As the taxi rumbled through the bustling city, neon signs blurred past in streaks of gold and crimson. My gaze lingered on the cozy eateries lining the streets, sparking an idea. A sisters' night. It was the perfect excuse to celebrate my new job, though my palm still burned to land another slap on his maddeningly handsome face.
"Stop here" I instructed the driver, my voice laced with sudden excitement.
I slipped out, the cool breeze brushing against my skin as I headed into my favorite spot. The smell of freshly baked pastries and caramelized sugar wrapped around me like a warm embrace. I filled my arms with our favorite treats, especially ice cream. Baby's weakness. My lips curled into a grin as I imagined her wide eyed delight.
LEWIS's POV
Everything about her is infuriating. The way she talks back without a trace of fear, the way she moves through my space like she belongs there. She's too comfortable, too unaffected by me.
And that only makes me want her more.
Every girl I've ever met, from high school to college, has fallen at my feet with a single glance. But her? She's an enigma, a maddening beautiful enigma who doesn't seem to give a damn. I won't call her unique. That would be too generous. She's just... infuriating.
I gripped the steering wheel tighter, the engine growling as I sped into my driveway. My house stood cold and silent just the way I liked it. Mum and Aurora preferred to stay together, though my little sister barely stayed in one place long enough to matter. She was a travel junkie and probably off exploring another country by now.
I grabbed my briefcase from the passenger seat, slamming the car door shut with more force than necessary. Each step up the grand staircase echoed through the empty house. I have a few house staff but they're mostly done for the day before I arrive home. Hilda who was my nanny when I was a child, goes to visit her children sometimes.
Stripping off my suit, I let the heavy fabric fall carelessly to the floor before collapsing onto the king sized bed.
She haunted me.
Was she home by now? Or dancing recklessly in some club, turning heads with that body of hers? The thought of her in another man's arms sent a spark of jealousy shooting through my veins.
"Damn it" I growled under my breath, scrubbing a hand through my hair.
I wasn't the kind of man who lost sleep over a woman but here I was, losing my grip over a girl I barely knew.
Enough.
I pushed myself off the bed. If I couldn't get her out of my head, I'd drown the thought of her in something stronger. The club.
A quick shower later, I dressed in casual luxury tailored loose pants, a crisp black unbuttoned shirt covering over a white t-shirt. Grabbing my phone and car keys, I slid into my sleek blue sports car and roared off into the night.
The VVIP section buzzed with energy pulsing lights, hypnotic beats and a sea of women eager for attention. I lounged back, a crystal glass in hand, while a few girls tried too hard to catch my eye. But my thoughts were elsewhere, on her.
I scanned the crowd for any glimpse of that fiery attitude wrapped in a dangerously beautiful mini dress. Nothing.
"Seen her? I mean, Priynka" I asked the waiter. I heard she was a regular here, a dancer I suppose.
He gave a small nod, and my stomach twisted with disappointment. The realization only stoked the fire in my chest.
Two girls clawing for the space beside me didn't take my anger away. I signaled the bouncers to handle them, no patience for petty games tonight. Let them bring in fresh faces if they wanted to impress me.
Usually, just the mention of my name had girls tripping over themselves to be near me. But Priynka? She couldn't care less and somehow, that only made me want her more.
I lifted the bottle to my lips, taking a slow, burning gulp. Around me, a group of women swayed and twerked, trying to entice me, but none of them came close to what I craved.
My mind betrayed me, flashing back to her the night before..hips moving like sin itself, leaving me breathless and aching.
I slammed the glass down and stood abruptly. If I couldn't have her, I'd distract myself another way.
Two girls clung to me as I led them toward the private rooms. Their touch was warm, but all I wanted was her.
The next morning came too soon. I woke up beneath a tangle of limbs and the stale scent of cheap perfume lingering in the air. Disgust curled in my stomach.
I peeled their hands off me, slipping out of bed without a backward glance. Tossing a wad of cash on the nightstand, I left them behind and drove home.
After a quick shower and a fresh suit, I stopped by a café for a light breakfast before heading to the office.
"Good morning, sir!" the staff greeted as I strode in, but I barely acknowledged them. My mind was already on the meeting with the foreign investors and the idea of seeing her.
Where the hell was she?
I grabbed the intercom, no answer.
My jaw clenched. I tried again still nothing.
I stormed to Mrs. Britney's desk. "Where is Miss Priynka?" My voice was sharper than intended.
"I don't know, sir" she replied, flustered.
Just then, Priynka burst through the entrance, breathless and disheveled. In her rush, she missed her steps and landed hard on her backside.
A cackle escaped my lips before I could stop it. Damn, she was even more beautiful when she was in disarray.
Straightening my tie, I schooled my features back into my CEO mask and cleared my throat.
"What time is it, Miss Wald?" I asked coldly.
She shot me a glare as she brushed herself off. "It's past 9 AM" she muttered.
"And when are you supposed to resume?"
"8 AM" she answered through gritted teeth.
I leaned in slightly, letting my tone drop to a dangerous edge. "Why are you just arriving, then?"
Her fingers toyed with her bag, a defiant spark flashing in her eyes.
She smiled, soft, sweet and far too innocent. "It won't happen again, Sir" she said, her lashes fluttering like she knew exactly how to play the part.
"It's fine. You can go" I replied, almost without thinking.
I watched her walk away, stepping on the marble floor with the familiar grace she usually walks with. My jaw clenched at how now she invaded my thoughts. Did I seriously just let her get away with it? I never went easy on anyone, especially when it came to punctuality.
The room felt heavier, as if the entire building sensed my uncharacteristic lapse. Shaking off the irritation, I walked back to my office. I reached for the phone and pressed the intercom.
"Come to my office" I said, my voice clipped.
A few moments later, a soft knock followed and she stepped inside, looking as unbothered as ever.