BEHIND THE FACADE R18

Darkening Horizons

_MALCOLM'S POV_

I woke to a throbbing headache, my mind foggy. Fragments of a nightmare lingered: blood-soaked walls, a woman's blurred face, and an overwhelming sense of desperation.

I recalled the details without emotion, my expression impassive. Nightmares were nothing new.

After dressing in my usual white shirt and pants, Natalie entered with a cup of coffee.

She looked calm and exuded her usual confidence. "Good morning," she said, handing me the cup.

I took a sip, feeling the caffeine kick in.

"We need to visit the warehouse," Natalie said, retrieving the empty cup.

I nodded, adjusting my shirt. "Get the car ready."

We headed out, Natalie waiting by the car as I detoured to the garden.

Mia jogged down the trail, halting as she saw me.

"What are you doing out here?" I asked, my tone firm.

Mia's gaze faltered, her eyes darting downward to my chest. A faint blush spread across her cheeks.

A smirk twisted my lips.

"Uhm... I was just taking a walk," Mia stuttered.

I stepped closer, my voice cold. "You know that's not advisable in your condition."

I tucked a strand of her hair behind her ear, my fingers grazing her skin. Mia's eyes fluttered closed, her lips parting.

I claimed her lips, my kiss swift and intense. Mia melted under my touch, her hands tracing my chest, craving more.

But I pulled away, my expression unyielding.

Mia's face fell, disappointment flashing across her features before being swiftly replaced by defiance.

But I'd seen it.

"I'm heading out," I said, my tone firm. "Take care of yourself. The doctor will come for a checkup. Don't forget your medicines."

Mia's brows furrowed, frustration etched on her face. "Look, Malcolm, I'm not a child. I can take care of myself."

She turned to leave, but I caught her arm.

"Remember, Mia," I whispered, my eyes locked onto hers, "you're mine."

Mia's gaze sparkled with anger, but I saw the hint of desire lurking beneath.

I released her arm, and she strode away.

As our driver navigated the city streets, Natalie's composed expression hinted at a pressing concern. Her eyes remained fixed on the screen of the tablet, her brow furrowed in concentration.

"What's on your mind, Natalie?" I asked, turning my attention from the passing scenery.

"Landon's people have been inquiring about our operations," Natalie replied, her voice measured, tapping notes onto her tablet with her stylus. "Specifically, they're asking about inventory levels, supply chains, and security protocols. They're fishing for weaknesses, Malcolm."

I nodded, unsurprised. Landon's recent acquisition of 20% of my empire's shares had been a tactical move, and I knew he wouldn't hesitate to use it to his advantage.

Landon thinks he can outmaneuver me, but he underestimates my reach.

Natalie's gaze met mine, and I saw a flicker of understanding. She knew my thoughts, knew I'd never yield.

"Get our lawyers on it," I instructed, my tone firm. "Ensure our contracts are airtight. I want no loopholes, no weaknesses. We'll review everything, from supplier agreements to employee non-disclosure agreements."