Shadows Of Desire

Chapter Two

Xavier's POV

As I looked up from my paperwork, I noticed the first decent-looking woman to walk in today. Unlike the others, she wasn’t here to seduce me; that much was clear. That’s when I knew I’d hire her.

"I was late to work one day and missed another because I was sick," she said.

Her voice was captivating, almost like a siren’s call. Usually, I can read people easily, but with her, I couldn’t. She was like an open book with blurred words—something just out of reach.

And she wasn’t just looks; her resume was impressive, almost too good for this job.

"So, how can you be sure you won’t do the same thing here in my company?" I asked.

"I won’t, sir. I really need this job and wouldn’t do anything to jeopardize it."

The way she said "sir" did things to me. I couldn’t help but wonder what other scenarios might bring that word from her lips.

What’s going on with me? Why am I reacting to her this way? This has never happened before. Even the way she’s looking at me feels… provocative.

"Well, I hope you keep your word, because I won’t hesitate to fire you. Understood?"

"Yes, Mr. Reed. Thank you. I won’t let you down," she replied, a subtle joy gleaming in her eyes.

But there’s something about her that doesn’t sit right. I make a mental note to have her background checked.

Returning to my work, I call my assistant to give Ms. Thompson a tour and explain her job responsibilities.

"…and DON’T. BE. LATE," I emphasized.

She looked back, visibly annoyed, but I matched her stare with an even colder one. Finally, she turned and left. I couldn’t help but watch her walk away—her hips swaying, stirring something in me. I quickly returned my focus to work.

As soon as she left, I called my PI to do a background check on her.

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Mrs. Stan, my long-time PA, now my secretary entered my office. She used to work for my father and now works for me. She’s getting older and slower, which is why I need a new assistant to eventually take over her role. She’s been a mother figure to me since I can remember.

After my parents’ car accident, I was left alone at 24 to handle everything. I didn’t have time for anything or anyone, but the Stans were always there for me. Mr. Stan is my gardener, and between the two of them, they ensure one is looking out for me when the other can’t. They think I don’t notice, but I do. I always know everything.

They live with me in my mansion; it’s better than being alone, and it’s my way of giving back.

Mrs. Stan sees the real me—Xavier, not the “Mr. Reed” everyone else knows.

"That young lady is nice, and you’ve been harsh on her," Mrs. Stan commented. "She’s just looking to make a living."

"If she’s going to work here, she has to put up with me or find another job. She won’t find one that pays as well as this, and she knows that," I replied.

"And I’ll make sure she knows better than to cross me."

I continued with my work, brushing it off.

"Just so you know, I’ll be watching, and I’ll make sure she doesn’t become one of your… ‘victims.’ She seems like a good, hard-working girl," she warned as she left.

"Oh, and could you reschedule the meeting with the Smiths for Tuesday?"

"Alright, Xavier,"

Later, I called my friend Josh to meet up at my club for drinks. By the time I wrapped up work, everyone else had already left the office.

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Arriving at the club, I parked my black Bugatti in my private spot, handed the keys to the valet, and walked to my personal entrance. The noise was deafening—it was a full house. I walked past the crowd, taking in the chaotic scene: men and women mingling at the bar, half-naked women on poles, and people getting drunk everywhere.

I headed up the stairs to my VIP section, where Josh was already halfway wasted with a stripper on his lap. The club lights shifted between purple, pink, and red, casting a moody glow over everything.

"Having fun already?" I asked, settling into a seat that overlooked the bar below.

"Yeah, man. I’m getting laid tonight. You should too," he said, grinning as I poured myself a drink.

"I came here to handle some business. I'll leave the partying to you."

"Come on, you’re still a bachelor. Enjoy it! Life’s not all work, you know."

I lifted my glass and downed it. "This is how I unwind."

He shook his head. "Bro, just one night. You’re too stiff. You need this. One night won’t hurt."

Maybe he’s right, but business first.

"Fine. I’ll go handle what I came here for, then we’ll see."

I drained my glass and headed to the back room. One of my guys from my underground business was waiting.

"All the drug shipments in?"

"Yes, boss. They arrived six hours ago and are stored in the warehouse."

"Good. Make sure every pub has stock. Some clients are complaining about shortages, and I don’t want to hear it again."

"Understood, boss," he said, looking nervous.

"Find out who’s been messing with my shipments, or you’ll be the one I deal with."

He practically ran from the room. Whoever’s been messing with my business is as good as dead. They’ll serve as a warning for anyone else who dares.

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