𝐇𝐈𝐒 𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐀𝐃𝐈𝐒𝐄

𝐒𝐈𝐗

THIS EPISODE CONTAINS MATURE SCENES.

Reader discretion is advised. This episode may include content that is intended for mature audiences, and contains themes and scenes that may not be suitable for all readers.

Content could include strong language, violence, adult situations, and other mature themes. If you are sensitive to such content or under the age of consent, I recommend choosing a different story to read.

PLEASE read at your own discretion, and be mindful of the content’s appropriateness for your age and personal preferences.

—

𝐎𝐍𝐄 𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐏 𝐂𝐋𝐎𝐒𝐄𝐑

“Come to my office.” A message from Dacre.

As I approached the elevator, I took a deep breath to calm my nerves.

What does he want from me this time?

I pushed the door open and stepped inside, my eyes fell on the back of a man standing near the window.

My heart skipped a beat, and I felt a strange sense of familiarity, but before I could dwell on it, the man turned around, and our eyes met.

I was in awe as I looked into the mesmerizing eyes of the stranger — the same man who had accidentally bumped into me earlier, causing my croissant to fall on the floor. In that moment, time seemed to stand still as we locked gazes, seemingly captivated by the unexpected encounter.

“You!”

“Croissant.”

“I believe you two have already met,” Dacre said, breaking the spell.

The man extended his arms towards me, a hint of amusement was evident in his eyes. “Bartholomew.” He said.

I took his hand, a flush of excitement rushing through me. “Teagan,” I replied, feeling a mix of surprise and delight.

—

Bartholomew and Teagan are seated on the couch. They seemed to share a camaraderie that felt oddly familiar, as if they had known each other for a long time.

Teagan’s laughter echoed through the room, and Bartholomew’s easy charm seemed to put her at ease. They spoke with comfort and ease that made me feel like an outsider in my own office.

I brushed off the unfamiliar feeling gnawing at me. I need to remind myself that they were probably just discussing work matters, but the niggling doubt persisted.

As I observed them, I noticed how Bartholomew leaned in slightly, his eyes never leaving Teagan’s face as she animatedly shared a story. The way they connected with an unspoken understanding only heightened this uneasy feeling.

I heaved out a sigh as I finally decided to step in the room, announcing my presence with a casual clearing of my throat. Teagan and Bartholomew turned towards me, and I tried to mask this uneasiness with a smile.

“Dacre,” Bartholomew greeted, his tone was cordial but with a hint of annoyance that didn’t go unnoticed. “Catching up with Teagan. She’s quite the conversationalist.”