Chapter 2

Ivy

I stared at my reflection in the mirror. This was it—the chance to make a strong first impression. My heart raced as I adjusted the red short dress I was wearing. It paired perfectly with black leggings, the kind that blended so seamlessly with my skin it was hard to tell where one ended and the other began.

I carefully applied a bold red lipstick to match the dress, grabbing a black bag and slipping on my black shoes to complete the look. My dark hair fell smoothly over my shoulders, straightened perfectly thanks to Camila’s help earlier this morning.

The clock read 7:49 a.m. My black bag was already slung over my shoulder as I headed to the door. When I stepped into the living room, Camila was sitting on the couch, her face lighting up with a proud smile as she looked me over.

“You look dashing,” she said, standing to give me a once-over.

“It’s going to be okay. You’re going to get the job, alright?” she added.

I nodded, her words giving me a small boost of hope. A wide, nervous smile spread across my face as I headed for the door. The taxi driver was already waiting outside, and it was time to go.

Sliding into the car, I gave him the address for Legacy Enterprises. My stomach churned as I watched the city blur past the window. Legacy Enterprises wasn’t just any company—it was the largest and most prestigious firm in New York. The owner was rumored to be insanely wealthy and, according to whispers, devastatingly handsome. But he was also known for keeping a distance, rarely interacting with people outside of work.

That made Max’s connection to him even more impressive the are best friends even from high school. Max was close to the owner—so close, in fact, that he’d done a lot to help Camila financially. She had him to thank for her comfortable life. And her parents were freaking rich also she had nothing to lack.

Now, here I was, hoping to land a job as the man’s secretary. This was more than just a job opportunity—it was a lifeline, a chance to rebuild everything I’d lost. As the taxi pulled closer to my destination, I straightened my dress and took a deep breath.

This was my moment.

I stepped out of the taxi, staring up at the massive building in front of me. It was the tallest and most impressive structure I’d ever seen. My breath caught as I took it all in. Its glass windows shimmered in the sunlight, and its size made me feel small as it loomed over me.

As I walked toward the entrance, the automatic doors slid open smoothly, welcoming me inside.

The lobby was bustling with people, everyone moving quickly, focused on their tasks. It was a hive of activity, but I felt like a small piece in a much larger puzzle. My heart raced as I scanned the room and spotted Max standing in the corner with a welcoming smile.

"Hey," he said, walking over to me, his hands casually tucked into his pockets.

"I’ll take you to his office. He’s expecting you," he added. I nodded and followed him, trying to steady my nerves.

As we moved through the stunning building, I couldn’t help but admire it. The atmosphere felt different—motivating and intimidating at the same time. I took a deep breath and whispered to myself, "You can do this, Ivy."

Max must have noticed my nerves because he smiled reassuringly. "Don’t overthink it. Mr. Cross already gave you the job. He just wants to meet you. I’ve already spoken to him about everything," he said.

I nodded again, his words giving me a small sense of relief, though the butterflies in my stomach didn’t stop.

We reached the elevator, and Max pressed the button. The doors opened, and we stepped in. The ride up felt longer than it probably was, every second adding to my nerves. But I kept telling myself to stay confident. People prey on fear, and I wasn’t about to let anyone see mine.

When the elevator dinged, the doors slid open, and we stepped out. His office door was right in front of me, tall and imposing.

Max turned to me. "Go on in. He’s waiting," he said before walking off, leaving me standing there alone.

I inhaled deeply, shaking off the negativity in my head, and knocked gently on the door.

"Come in," a deep, raspy voice said from inside.

My heart skipped a beat as I pushed the door open and stepped in.

I froze. Sitting at the desk was the most handsome man I’d ever seen. His sharp jawline, piercing eyes, and dominant presence hit me like a wave. His energy filled the room, making my legs feel weak.

"Oh, Miss Thompson," he said with a polite smile. "I’m so glad to finally meet you."

His voice was like velvet, smooth but commanding, and it made my stomach flutter. Camila was right—he wasn’t just attractive. He was magnetic.

I walked closer, trying not to falter under his gaze. His eyes never left mine, and I wasn’t about to break the eye contact either.

"Please, have a seat," he said, gesturing to the chair in front of his desk.

I sat down, trying to keep my composure.

"So, Miss Thompson," he began, leaning back slightly. "Why do you want this job?"

"It’s my dream job, Mr. Cross," I replied, my voice steady despite my nerves.

"And I’m very grateful for the opportunity," I added, hoping I sounded genuine.

He nodded, his intense gaze not wavering. "This company means a lot to me," he said, his tone softening slightly. "My father started it when I was just ten years old, and I’ve been fortunate to turn it into a multi-billion-dollar company... alongside my wife."

Wife?

Of course, he was married. A man like him—wealthy, powerful, and devastatingly handsome—would never be single. Still, a strange sting settled in my chest.

"I want you to give this job your absolute best," he continued. "Can you promise me that?"

I snapped out of my thoughts and nodded quickly. "Of course, sir. I’ll do my best, and I won’t disappoint you."

It had been a while since a men's presence alone could awaken the lustful beast in me and i was savoring it every second.