The Email [Yandere Boss x Reader]

Chapter 22 - Meeting

I woke with a start, momentarily disoriented by the early morning light filtering through the curtains. Rubbing the sleep from my eyes, I glanced over to see Hayes' side of the bed already empty and made up neatly.

The sound of movement from downstairs drew my attention. I threw on a robe and made my way towards the noise, following the scent of freshly brewed coffee.

I found Hayes in the kitchen, meticulously knotting his tie as he stood in front of the mirror. He looked impeccable in his tailored suit, but there was something about the early hour that struck me as odd.

"You're going to work this early?" I muttered around a yawn.

He glanced over at me, lips quirking up in an indulgent smile. 

"It's a meeting for new investors. Younger ones," he clarified, turning back to finish adjusting his tie.

I frowned, padding further into the kitchen.

"Still, this early?" I knew Hayes preferred to be unfailingly punctual, but this seemed excessive even for him.

He let out a soft chuckle, finally turning to face me fully. 

"Aw, you're worried about me," he said, eyes crinkling at the corners with amusement.

There was a hint of condescension in his tone that immediately put me on edge. I bristled slightly. 

"Of course I am. We're... partners, right?"

"Of course, darling." Hayes closed the distance between us, cupping my cheek gently. "I'll be back before you know it. No need to fret."

His touch was tender, but I couldn't shake the feeling that I was being placated. An uncomfortable prickling ran down my spine.

Before I could dwell on it further, Hayes dropped a quick peck on my forehead and stepped back. 

"I should get going. You'll be alright on your own for a bit?"

It wasn't really a question. His eyes held an intensity that made it clear he expected me to agree, no arguments. Disquieted, I could only nod mutely.

Hayes' expression softened and he gave me one last smile before turning on his heel and striding out, long legs eating up the ground efficiently.

I stared after him for a long moment before letting out a shaky breath. Get a grip, I scolded myself. He's just going to a work meeting, that's all.

But try as I might, I couldn't shake the feeling that something wasn't quite right. Almost like the man I loved was slowly slipping away from me, being replaced by someone I didn't fully recognize.

Wrapping my arms around myself, I wondered what fresh challenges the day would bring. Because one thing was becoming abundantly clear - the life I thought I knew was rapidly unraveling into something darker.