Julian Blackwood, CEO of Blackwood Enterprises, stood by the floor-to-ceiling windows of his office, gazing out at the city skyline. His sharp jawline and piercing blue eyes seemed chiseled from granite, his dark hair perfectly styled. He exuded power and confidence.
The door opened, and his assistant, Mrs. Jenkins, entered. "Sir, your new personal assistant, Emily Thompson, is waiting to see you."
Julian's expression turned calculating. "Send her in."
The door closed, and a moment later, Emily walked in. Julian's eyes locked onto hers, and for a fleeting instant, his mask slipped. The past flashed between them like a spark.
"Ah, Emily," Julian said, his voice low and rough. "I've been expecting you."
Emily's eyes met his, a mix of wariness and determination reflected in their depths. "Julian."
He raised an eyebrow. "No 'Mr. Blackwood' or 'sir'? We're diving right into informality, I see."
Emily's cheeks flushed, but she stood her ground. "We've known each other a long time, Julian. I thought we'd dispense with formalities."
Julian's gaze lingered on her, drinking in the changes time had brought. Her hair was shorter, her eyes still sparkled with intelligence, and her curves were more pronounced. He felt a familiar tug, one he'd long suppressed.
"Indeed," he said, his tone neutral. "Take a seat, Emily. Let's discuss your role."
Emily sat, her posture straight, her hands clasped together in her lap. Julian returned to his desk, his movements fluid and powerful.
"As my personal assistant, you'll handle my schedule, correspondence, and various tasks. You'll be required to work closely with me, often under tight deadlines."
Emily nodded, her eyes never leaving his face. "I'm ready for the challenge, Julian. I've reviewed your schedule and—"
"I'm sure you're familiar with my schedule," Julian interrupted, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "After all, we did have a... tumultuous past."
Emily's cheeks flushed deeper, but she refused to back down. "Our past is exactly why I'm here, Julian. I want to prove myself, to show you I'm capable of more than you think."
Julian's eyes narrowed, intrigued by her spirit. "Very well, Emily. Let's see what you're made of. I'll give you a task. If you succeed, we'll discuss further opportunities."
Emily's eyes sparkled with determination. "I'm ready. What's the task?"
Julian leaned back in his chair, a small smile playing on his lips. "I have a meeting with a potential client tonight. I want you to accompany me, dress accordingly, and ensure everything goes smoothly."
Emily's eyes widened slightly, but she nodded. "I'll take care of it."
Julian's gaze lingered on her, a mixture of fascination and wariness. He wasn't sure what game Emily was playing, but he was eager to find out.
"Good," he said, his voice low and husky. "I'll expect nothing but perfection, Emily. Nothing less."
The air between them crackled with tension as Emily stood, her eyes locked on his. "I'll deliver, Julian. You can count on me."
As she turned to leave, Julian's eyes followed her, his mind already racing with possibilities. He couldn't help but wonder what other surprises Emily had in store for him.