Mr. Grey-Book I

Prologue

Emilia Clark

I sat still, fidgeting nervously as I waited for my interview with Mrs. Grey. I knew little about her, except that she was the Chairwoman of Grey Enterprises, a multi-billion dollar company previously run by her son, Damien Grey.

No one had seen or heard from Damien since he was reportedly involved in an accident two years ago.

The Greys had recently placed a mysterious job ad without any description. I stumbled upon it in my email last night, and this morning I received a call for an interview. For all I knew, it could be a trap. Glancing around, I noticed three other girls sitting quietly in the corner, also waiting.

Please, don't let this be some sketchy modeling gig. I desperately need the money, but not that desperately.

"Mrs. Grey will see you now," the receptionist announced, her crisp voice snapping me back to reality.

I took a deep breath and stood up. You've got this, Emilia.

As I entered Mrs. Grey's office, I had to stifle a gasp. It was enormous, making every other "impressive" office I'd seen look like a broom closet.

Her desk was at the far end of the room. Thank goodness she couldn't see me gawking like a starstruck teenager.

I straightened my shoulders and began the long walk towards her, feeling like I was approaching royalty.

Mrs. Grey's cold, piercing eyes scanned me as I stopped in front of her desk. I suddenly felt painfully aware of every wrinkle in my clothes.

"Sit," she ordered, her voice slicing through the silence.

I complied, trying to mask my intimidation with a polite smile.

"Let's begin," she said crisply. "Your profile states you're an English Literature major."

"Yes, that's correct," I replied, relieved my voice didn't betray my nerves.

She reviewed a blue folder for a moment before asking, "Is Lucy Inn your mother?"

I blinked in surprise. "Yes, but... how did you know that?"

Mrs. Grey ignored my question. "Have you ever met my son, Damien?"

"No, ma'am," I replied, utterly confused. "I'm just here for the job."

She stood and walked to the window, her back to me. "Damien was in an accident two years ago. He's been out of the public eye since then." She paused. "Many assume he's dead."

I stayed silent, unsure how to respond.

She turned back to me, her eyes stormy. "Damien is my only son. Without him, the Grey name and legacy end."

"I'm sorry," I said softly. "But... I'm not sure what this has to do with me. I don't mean to be insensitive—"

Mrs. Grey moved closer, her presence overwhelming. "Miss Clark, I want you to be my son's surrogate."

I nearly choked. "I'm sorry, what?"

"You heard me correctly. I want you to carry my son's child, and you will be handsomely rewarded."