ETERNAL BLOOM

A Dangerous Attraction

"When you’re near me, I can’t help but want to possess every part of you. You’re a temptation I can’t resist, a longing that drives me to the edge of madness."

Morloch City, Late Afternoon

The air in Lila Monroe’s suite was thick with anticipation. She had finally made her decision. The allure of the offer from Blackwood Industries was too great to pass up, despite her lingering doubts. Her phone call with Sophie earlier had set everything in motion—a meeting with Dorian Blackwood himself to finalize the contract.

Lila stood by the mirror, adjusting the fitted black dress she had chosen for the occasion. The fabric clung to her curves, elegant yet understated. She knew the meeting was more than just business—it was a step into Dorian’s world, a world that intrigued and unnerved her in equal measure.

Evelyn, ever the attentive manager, entered the room. “Are you ready, Lila?”

Lila nodded, but her mind was elsewhere. “Sophie said Dorian wanted to meet in his private office. I wonder why he insisted on that.”

Evelyn’s expression was carefully neutral. “Dorian Blackwood is known for being... particular. Just remember, you’re in control of this meeting. Don’t let him intimidate you.”

Lila offered a faint smile, though her heart was pounding. “I’ll try.”

Blackwood Industries Headquarters, Evening

Dorian’s office was a sanctuary of luxury and power, high above the city. The walls were lined with dark wood, and the furniture was rich with leather and mahogany. Large windows offered a panoramic view of Morloch City, now bathed in the golden hues of the setting sun. The room exuded an atmosphere of authority, yet something about it felt almost... ancient.

Dorian stood by the window, his gaze distant as he awaited Lila’s arrival. His thoughts were in turmoil. Ever since he had first seen her, he had been unable to escape the memories of Elena. The scent of Lila’s blood, the way she moved, even the sound of her voice—it was as if Elena had returned to him, but in a different form. The realization both thrilled and tormented him.

A soft knock at the door broke his reverie. He turned, composing himself as he called out, “Come in.”

Lila entered the room, her eyes immediately drawn to Dorian. He was dressed impeccably, as always, in a tailored black suit that accentuated his tall, lean frame. But it was his eyes that captured her attention—dark and intense, with a depth that hinted at untold secrets.

“Miss Monroe,” Dorian greeted her, his voice low and smooth. “I’m glad you could make it.”

Lila offered a polite smile, trying to mask her nervousness. “Thank you for inviting me.”

Evelyn stepped forward, her professional demeanor in full force. “I’m here to ensure everything goes smoothly with the contract.”

Dorian’s gaze flicked to Evelyn, his expression unreadable. “I appreciate your diligence, Miss Sinclair, but I’d like to speak with Lila alone for a moment. The details of the contract can be handled afterward.”

Evelyn hesitated, glancing at Lila for reassurance. Lila gave a slight nod, signaling that she was okay with it. Reluctantly, Evelyn stepped back. “I’ll be right outside if you need anything.”

As the door closed behind Evelyn, the atmosphere in the room shifted. Lila suddenly felt very alone with Dorian, the weight of his presence almost suffocating. There was tension in the air, thick and palpable.

Dorian gestured to a leather armchair near his desk. “Please, have a seat.”

Lila took the seat he offered, her heart pounding in her chest. There was something about Dorian—something magnetic and unsettling—that made it difficult to focus. She watched as he moved behind his desk, his every movement deliberate, his presence overwhelming.