𝐕𝐞𝐢𝐥𝐞𝐝 𝐎𝐛𝐬𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧

Chapter 1 : The Arrival

Scarlett

The moment I stepped off the plane and onto the tarmac, I felt an unsettling chill run down my spine. New York was supposed to be a fresh start, a place where I could bury my past and build a future. But as I walked towards the sleek black car waiting for me, I couldn't shake the feeling that I was walking into something far more dangerous than I had ever imagined.

I was greeted by a man in a crisp black suit. "Ms. Hayes, I'm Mr. Blackwood's driver. He's waiting for you at the estate."

Mr. Blackwood. Alexander Blackwood. The name alone sent shivers down my spine. He was a billionaire with a reputation as dark as his suits, known for his ruthless business tactics and icy demeanor. I had never met him, but I had heard enough to know that working for him would be a challenge. Yet, it was an opportunity I couldn't refuse.

As the car sped through the city, my thoughts wandered to my past. The life I had left behind was filled with betrayal and heartbreak. I had learned the hard way that trust was a luxury I couldn't afford. This job was my chance to start anew, to prove myself. Little did I know, it would also be the start of a dangerous game.

The Blackwood estate was a sprawling mansion, surrounded by high walls and guarded by men who looked like they meant business. As I walked through the grand entrance, I was met with opulence beyond my wildest dreams. Marble floors, crystal chandeliers, and art pieces that probably cost more than my entire life savings.

( See the image above )

"Ms. Hayes," a deep voice called from the top of the grand staircase. I looked up to see Alexander Blackwood descending the stairs, his presence commanding the room. He was tall, with piercing blue eyes and a jawline that looked like it was chiseled from stone. He exuded power and control, and as our eyes met, I felt an electric charge between us.

"Mr. Blackwood," I replied, my voice steady despite the nerves bubbling inside me.

"Welcome to Blackwood Industries. I trust you found the journey pleasant?" His tone was polite, but there was an edge to it, a hint of something darker.

"Yes, thank you," I replied. "I'm looking forward to working with you."

His eyes narrowed slightly, as if he was assessing me, looking for weaknesses. "I hope you're prepared, Ms. Hayes. Working for me is not for the faint of heart."

I lifted my chin, meeting his gaze head-on. "I wouldn't be here if I wasn't."

A slow, predatory smile spread across his face. "Good. Let's see what you're made of," he said, his words lingering in the air, heavy with challenge.

As he descended the last few steps, I took a moment to compose myself, allowing the grandeur of my surroundings to sink in. The Blackwood estate was everything I had imagined and more, a testament to the wealth and power of the man who stood before me.

Alexander's suit was impeccable, tailored to perfection, highlighting his broad shoulders and lean frame. The black fabric seemed to absorb the light, enhancing the sharpness of his silhouette. His tie, a deep shade of burgundy, added a touch of color to his otherwise monochrome ensemble. The attention to detail in his attire spoke volumes about his meticulous nature.

He reached the bottom of the staircase and extended his hand. "Follow me," he instructed, turning on his heel without waiting for my response.

I hurried to keep pace, my heels clicking against the polished marble floors. My own attire suddenly felt inadequate in comparison. I had chosen a fitted navy dress, conservative yet stylish, with a neckline that was modest but flattering. My hair was pulled back into a sleek ponytail, and I had opted for minimal makeup, wanting to project a professional image. Yet, standing next to Alexander, I couldn't help but feel like a small fish in a very large pond.

He led me through a series of hallways, each one more opulent than the last. The walls were adorned with artwork, each piece more breathtaking than the previous. It was clear that Alexander spared no expense when it came to his surroundings.

We finally arrived at a set of double doors, intricately carved and imposing. Alexander pushed them open and gestured for me to enter. "This will be your office," he said, his voice steady and controlled.

I stepped inside, and my breath caught in my throat. The office was spacious and elegantly furnished, with a large mahogany desk positioned in front of a floor-to-ceiling window that offered a stunning view of the estate grounds. Bookshelves lined the walls, filled with leather-bound volumes that looked both decorative and well-read. A plush leather chair sat behind the desk, and a sleek computer was already set up, waiting for me.

"It's beautiful," I said, my voice barely above a whisper.

Alexander nodded. "I expect excellence, Ms. Hayes. Your predecessor didn't meet my standards, which is why you're here. Do not disappoint me."

His words were a stark reminder of the stakes. I nodded, meeting his gaze with determination. "I won't."

He studied me for a moment longer, then turned to leave. "I'll give you some time to settle in. Your first task will be sent to you shortly. Welcome to Blackwood Industries, Ms. Hayes."

With that, he was gone, leaving me alone in my new office. I took a deep breath and walked over to the desk, running my fingers over the smooth surface. This was my chance to start over, to prove myself. But I couldn't shake the feeling that I had just stepped into a lion's den.

I sat down in the leather chair, the material cool against my skin. As I powered up the computer, I couldn't help but glance around the room again, marveling at the luxury. This was a far cry from the small, cluttered office I had left behind. I was determined to make the most of this opportunity, no matter the challenges ahead.

As I settled in, a knock on the door startled me. A young woman in a crisp white blouse and black pencil skirt entered, carrying a tray with a coffee cup and a small plate of pastries. "Good morning, Ms. Hayes. I'm Emily, Mr. Blackwood's assistant. I brought you some coffee."

"Thank you, Emily," I said, offering her a smile.

She set the tray down on the desk and gave me a quick once-over. "If you need anything, just let me know. Mr. Blackwood can be... demanding, but you'll get used to it."

I nodded, appreciating her candidness. "I'll keep that in mind."

Emily left, and I took a sip of the coffee, savoring the rich, dark flavor. I opened my laptop and began to familiarize myself with the company's files, eager to dive into my new role. As I worked, I couldn't help but think about Alexander's warning. Working for him was not for the faint of heart. But I was ready. I had to be.

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Author's note :-

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