It wasn't me

LETICIA’S POV

“You are smart and gorgeous, and the world is yours for the taking” I said to myself, thought it was expected as a daughter of a billionaire, you were never among the lazy gilded youth. Since childhood, you studied hard to become a proper heiress of the large conglomerate Lancaster Co. “Today is your day. You’ve got this!”

Lately, you’ve been working day and night to prove yourself trustworthy enough to become the right hand to your father. You’re staring at your reflection in the mirror, blowing yourself a kiss when you hear a soft knock on your bedroom door.

“Still sending kisses to yourself, I see…” Samantha, my older sister, strolls in “What can I say, self-love is the key to success! The world is full of people hating themselves. Why should I be like them?” I asked raising an eyebrow “Speaking of success, how is your evil plan to take over dad’s empire going?”

“It’s going great. He’ll be announcing the new CEO tonight! I’ve been waiting for this moment since I was a kid, Sam. My time family arrived. I can already read tomorrow’s headlines Leticia Lancaster taking the reins of Lancaster Co. as the youngest CEO ever” I said excited “I know that’s your dream, but don’t you think it’s too much responsibility?” my sister asked concerned “What can I say? Responsibility doesn’t scare me, nothing scares me”

“Working for dad won’t be a piece of cake. I can’t remember a single day in our lives that he hasn’t worked. Even when mom died, he never put aside time to be with us, even though we were struggling to keep our lives together” I lower my gaze as m y jaw clenches, the memory of my deceased mom still hurt “I’m just worried about your love life. How will you find the time to settle down with a nice guy if you’ll be working 24/7?”

“I don’t need to be in a committed relationship to feel complete, my job gives me all the fulfilment I need” I said arraigning my hair “You’re starting to sound like a cranky spinster” my sister said “You’d be the same way if your ex was cheating bastard like mine was! I just want to have fun. I’m young and beautiful. I just want to have fun for now. What about you, though? Are you sure about your decision to stop working for the company?”

“Honestly, since I reassigned, I’ve never been happier, plus, my dream is to be a fashion designer, not work for a boring tech company” my sister said with a big smile on her face “Well, if that means you get to sew gorgeous dresses, then I’m all for it” I said “Speaking of, I made something for you.”

She shows you a silky luxurious dark gown that sparkles as if it were the starry sky. Extravagant as it is elegant, your breath is taken away by the sight of it “You designed a dress for me? Thank you so much!” I said excited “I knew you would like it! Will you wear it for tonight’s event?” Samantha shyly asked “I’d love to. You’re the best. Nothing can tarnish our friendship!” Riding high on what must surely be the best day ever, it’s a pity that I don’t know what awaits you…

After getting ready for your big day, you climb into your limousine and pour yourself a glass of champagne… your favourite breakfast. Toby, our family’s chauffeur, assistant and your occasional hookup turns the car on and peeks at you in the rearview mirror. “Looking great today, Leti”

“Why thank you. I must look my best because today is the day! I’m finally going to be promoted to CEO!!” I said excited “Wow! Congratulations! You’ve been working for so long. You really deserve it. If you want to celebrate, I could take us somewhere quiet and perhaps, relieve you of your clothes…”

Shivers run down my spine at his suggestion of a good time. In the back of my mind, I recall that I haven’t had fun with him in a while, and in this moment, I want to have some fun, although I don’t have time at this moment, so I decided to tease him leaning forward from the rear, cup his chin, pulling him closer. But instead of placing my lips on his, I just brush the corner of his mouth “You’re so sexy, Toby, but I don’t have time for a quickie. Take me to the office, I need to be there by ten”

“Copy that, boss” Toby said accommodating himself in his seat. As I get out of the car, I rush to the door of the company’s building, not wanting to be late for the board meeting. However, just as I pass over an outlet grate, I jerk awkwardly as I realize on of my heels becomes stuck. “Oh, fuck… No t today! Stupid shoes! And to think I paid two grand for them!” I say as I try to free my shoe, swearing like a sailor, someone taps on my shoulder.

“I’m not sure what those shoes did to you, but I certainly wouldn’t want to be them right now” Startled by the deep, husky voice, you turn around, only to be surprised by a handsome man standing there. He can’t be more than 30 years, but with the perfect eyes, perfect smile and perfect everything, you can’t help but think that he’s too gorgeous, His intense dark eyes, stare right into yours, sending a bolt of electricity through your entire body. Fuck! I can’t even move… I’m fully hypnotized. Who is this guy?

I shake my head to try and clear my thoughts but struggle to focus on anything but this God-like figure in front of me. “I- I’m stuck, and I can’t get my freaking heel out of this stupid crack” I finally said, “Would you like some help?” the stranger asked “Well… I could use some help”

Bending down on one knee, he gently pulls your foot up as you lean on his shoulder, trying to keep my balance. Seconds later, he frees my shoe with ease “How did you do that?” I asked surprised he did it in seconds “My hands are magic” he said, and I wonder what that magic looks like in the bedroom. “I’m Leticia, by the way” I said with a smile “As in Leticia Lancaster?” the stranger asked surprised “The one and only”

“I’m Hunter, nice to meet you. I was coming Hunter holds the door open for here for a meeting. We can make our way up together if you’d like” he said with a big smile on his face “I’d love that” Hunter holds the door open for me, and I walk into de building with a shy smile on my face. The two of us quickly make our way to the elevator. Once the doors open, we step on “So what bring you here?” I asked with curiosity “I have a meeting with Janet Smith. My company has been providing champagne and wine for Lancaster’s events for the past few years. I just must make sure all the details for tonight’s gala are finalized”

“Wait a second, you’re Hunter Rasmussen?” I asked surprised “The one and only” he said, reciting my earlier words Oh, my God! You make the best champagne! I’ve been drunk on your champagne more times than I can count! It’s both a course and a blessing” I compliment “I’ll take that as a compliment”

“So, you’ll be at Lancaster Co.’s 100th-anniversary gala tonight then?” I asked curiously “I don’t usually go to these kinds of events, but… if it means that I get to see you again, then I wouldn’t miss it for the world” He flashes me a smile at you that makes you knees feel weak and butterflies flutter in my stomach. He’s to handsome, I can admit that, and I can’t wait to get some alone time with him tonight. I find myself lost in Hunter’s eyes when the elevator suddenly bumps and stops.

Losing my balance, I find myself in Hunter’s strong arms as they wrap around my waist and hold me steady. “You, ok?” he asked, and I can’t help it roll my eyes “Of course. I’m a strong woman!” I said a bit more forcedly than I intended “Of course, though you’re also very beautiful woman. You’ve made my day much better, Leticia”

Getting a hint of his intoxicating cologne, I find myself swooning. My breath audibly hitches as a large hand cup my face and pulls me close. His warm breath brushes against your eager lips, making me stuck in a shuddery breath “You’re driving me crazy, Leticia. It’s like I’m under some spell” He murmured “Perhaps I used some charms on you, Mr. Dark Knight” I murmured back.

“I just wish this stupid elevator would stay still for a fair bit longer so I could show you how much I want you” I’m mesmerized by his overwhelming presence as the urge to be wanton with him grows inside me. He gently brushes my face with his fingertips as his other hand slides down to my waist, setting your body on fire. We haven’t even kissed, and I already feel son inflamed! “I like the way you think”

“Hunter presses the bright red stop button, ensuring the ‘fair bit longer’ he so wished for moments before. With a smirk, he tugs and brings me even closer to him. I lick my lower lip mischievously as I press my breasts firmly against his firm chest. “Fuck. You are so sexy, Leticia”

The next thing I know are his lips on mine. My body presses harder into his as I open my mouth a bit, permitting him to explore my mouth. Our tongues dance in a needy tango as Hunter grabs my hips, rubbing his growing bulge against my pulsating core. His tongue explores every inch of my mouth, leaving a faintly sweet taste behind. Who is this man, and why haven’t I ever met him before? He’s making me fell all kinds of ways without even undressing me!

I wrap my leg around his waist as he nibbles my lower lip, sucking it hard “Mmm, you taste so good” he said and suddenly, he takes my hands and pins them above my head, pushing me against the elevator wall “What are you doing?” I asked surprised but excited at the same tame “I want to taste every inch of your body, Leticia”

“You like to take control, I see” Leaning into my neck, he takes my earlobe into his mouth for a good suck before moving down to press the flat of his tongue along my neck. I grip his hair tight as I bring his head closer, his warm tongue lapping at the sensitive skin in a circular motion. My nipples harden at the anticipation of his tongue swirling around them when suddenly you hear a loud buzz “Shit Someone must have unlocked the elevator!” I said frustrated “too bad. We should do this again soon.” Hunter murmured with a flirty smile “I’d love that”

“See you tonight, Leticia” We both adjust our clothes and hair as the elevator abruptly resumes its ascent to the tenth floor where we both step off, acting as if nothing happened.

Trying to take my mind off Hunter and his sexy, charming attitude, I step into the conference room, stumbling into my father “Good morning, dad!” I said cheerfully “Someone’s in a good mood today. What’s on your mind?” he asked “How could I not be? Tonight, I might be getting that promotion I’ve been working so hard”

“You’re a hard worker indeed, Leti. I couldn’t be prouder” He said “So? Can you congratulate me” I said “All depends on the board. We have a few candidates.” Soon after the pleasant chit-chat, the rest of the board members arrive, and the meeting begins. Unfortunately, it’s decided that the name of the new CEO will be announced at the party, so it leaves me frustrated.

Later that day, everyone at Lancaster mansion is getting ready to host the gala. As I give various instructions to the staff about a few last-minute details, Toby comes to check on me. “The staff has outdone themselves for this event” He said looking at the space “Well… that because I’ve been yelling at then nonstop!” I joke “Your fierce personality reminds me of your other’s. She was unstoppable just like you, Leti” Toby murmured “If only she could be here tonight. Achieving my biggest goal is going to be bittersweet without her here” I said a bit sad “She might not be, but you are surrounded by a lot of other people who are so very proud of you. Do you remember the haute couture dress your dad ordered for you from Paris last month for that birthday party next week?”

I think about a violet pile of chiffon and glitter. The one that got lost “Well, it finally arrived, and I think it will be perfect for tonight” he said “Oh my! I can’t wait to see it!” I exclaimed. Toby walks with me to my closet with the newly arrived dress in hand I think what dress I would put for this evening. My sister will be happy to see me wearing her dress, it can show how I support her, but, on the other hand, I’ve been waiting for this designer’s dress for ages… And I want to please my dad, but a few minutes later of looking to both dresses I decided to put my sister dress, A beautiful long sparkling dress.

After I put some shoes and arrange my hair, I go back to the living room, where I can see Toby looking at me “You look stunning, Leti. I would gladly help you rid yourself of that later…” he flirts. I think about Hunter and suddenly the idea of being with Toby doesn’t seem as exciting as it used to. “Uhm… We’ll see”

“The guest are starting to arrive, by the way” Toby informs me “Lt’s get this party started then!” As I head toward the main hall, you spot your sister in your dad’s office, talking to a woman you’ve never seen before. I stop immediately, intrigued by their animated discussion and peak through the half-opened door.

“We can’t Skylar” my sister said upset “Why don’t you trust me? I won’t let anything happen to you, ever” Who is that? And what are they talking about? “I trust you, Sky. I always will” As my sister finishes her sentence, she takes the woman in her arms and kisses her with fervour you’re not used to seeing from Samantha, and what the actual fuck?! I had no idea Sam was into girls! I totally support it, obviously, but why would she hide that from me? Regardless, I’m still far from the conservative jerk that our father is.

When they finally break their kiss, and you’re still struggling to wrap your head around what you just witnessed, they start talking again, but at a whisper now, and it’s hard for me to hear what they’re saying, but I do hear something that leaves me dumbfounded.

“After what I’m going to do tonight, Leticia will hate me” Skylar said but why is she talking about me, and why I would hate her? I lean forward, cupping my hand around my ear to hear better “True, Leti is going to be really pissed, but if we give her some time, she’ll understand” my sister said “Everyone at the company knows how bad of a temper your sister has” the girl said and I know I can be harsh sometimes, and maybe I should take some anger-management courses, but that’s something to think later.

“tonight’s announcement is going to break her into pieces” Skylar said, and despite de nature of their discussion, I see how my sister looks at the woman with such love and tenderness “I appreciate you wanting to comfort me, but I know she’ll never forgive us” As I listen in, I begin to doubt if this is about the new CEO announcement or something else… like the possibility of Samantha coming out “If you’re right, maybe we shouldn’t move forward with our plan.

“We’ve been hiding our relationship for too long. I want to come out, even if that means pissing off everyone” my sister girlfriend said “Alright, let’s do it” Samantha takes Skylar’s hand in hers and the head toward the door, and that’s my cue to leave before the see me.

A short while later, the main hall begins to fill with people. You stand in a corner, puzzled by the conversation you just overheard “The gala seems to be a success so far. Everyone seems to be enjoying themselves” A voice said at my side “Hey, Uncle Charles! I didn’t know you were coming” I give my uncle a hug, relieved to see him there. After all, aside from you sister, he’s the only member of your family who doesn’t piss you off. He’s also the former head of the company, and as such, his word still holds some influence. “I never would’ve missed the opportunity to watch my favourite nice take over my brother’s empire”

I know Uncle Charles will always be on my side. I’m sure he dropped a word for me to my father about the CEO position. Glancing over my uncle’s shoulder, I spot dad walking hand in hand with a woman that looked closer to you age than his. “Speak of the devil…” I murmur, rolling my eyes.

The girl looks at me appraisingly and smirks superiorly. I can immediately feel the negative spark run between you two. Who’s that? I hope this chick is hiss new spouse… or worse, a long-lost daughter! For fuck’s sake, her outfit barely covers her fake tits! “Dad!... Didn’t know you were babysitting tonight” I said “Be nice, Leti. This is my girlfriend, Bella. I’ve been meaning to introduce her to the family for a while now and I thought the gala would be the perfect time to do so”

Girlfriend?! How quickly has he forgotten about his dead beloved wife! Replacing her with this… bimbo! “Bella, this is my youngest daughter, Leticia, and my brother Charles” dad said “Hello, nice to meet you” She said with a big fake smile plastered on her face “the pleasure is all ours, Bell” My uncle said “Oh great, another gold digger who thinks that a pair of fake boobs will be enough to get a nice chunk of our fortune” I bite “Leticia! Apologize to Bella immediately” Dad said, getting angry “It’s okay, Ethan. I’m sure she’ll change her mind once she gets to know me better”

“I highly doubt that. I’ve seen my fair share of bimbos with my dad to know what to expect from you” Bella replies, but all I hear is blah, blah, blah as my attention goes to the familiar face I just spotted in the crowd with a smile in his face “Well, I could fake interest in this conversation, but I’ve decided to save my sanity instead”

I step away from my family and make my way through the throng of guests, hardly able to hide my excitement, or the building ache in my core at seeing Hunter again. “So, you weren’t lying when you said you were Hunter Rasmussen” I joke “Why would I have lied?” He asked, confused “Lots of guys are willing to do crazy stuff to impress me, but I’m glad you’re different”

“Well… not all the time though” Hunter said, scratching his neck “Am I an exception to the rule?” I ask, rising an eyebrow “I bet you are. It’s kind of crowded here, what would you say if we hit the dance floor?” he asked, “You dance?” I ask, surprised “Not to brag, but I’m actually a fantastic dance” He brags, and I laugh. Maybe he’s nearly as good as I am… I wonder who’s better. “Let’s see if you can put your money where your mouth is…”

“I follow Hunter to the centre of the dance floor, the dim light casting hypnotizing streaks over the guests as the rhythmic music reaches your eardrums. Hunter’s body begins to sway as mine does the same. Hunter slides his hands around my waist as I wrap mi hands behind his neck “It’s nice to see you again” he says with a big smile in his face “I’m glad you came. You’re the only thing here right now that isn’t going to bore me to death”

“Oh? You don’t enjoy the company of rich middle-aged men and their depressed, alcoholic wives?” he asks, causing the both of us to laugh “Not really. I’m more into sexy young men, who are full of energy and passion” I flirt “Mmm, so I’m sexy?” He asked, with a smirk on his face “Like you don’t already know that” I said, rolling my eyes “I try to be modest”

“Modesty is overrated. I know I’m hot and I’m not afraid to say it out loud” I replied “There is no doubt about that. You’re incredibly gorgeous, Leticia” Our bodies get closer, moving to the tempo of the music. I feel a wave of heat, spread through my body as Hunter’s lust-filled eyes stay looked in mine. If I could just kiss him right now…

I’m a bit surprised when Hunter Leans in and presses a sweet kiss on your lips as if he read my mind. “I hope you don’t mind me kissing you in front of all these people” he murmured “Not at all” He kisses me again before spinning me around, so my back is now flat against his chest.

Aroused by the proximity of our bodies, I grind my butt against his crotch, knowing he’d love how firm and plump it is. I move from side to side at first, and as I feel his shaft start to stiffen trough the fabric of his pants, I decide to spice things up. “Fuck, you are driving me crazy, Leticia…” he moans “Good. I want you to be crazy for me”

“With the way you move your sexy body, you’ve already got me crazy about you” he said, twirling me again, my face now almost touching his. He trails kisses down your neck before whispering in me ear “We should stop now before we go too far. We are in a room full of people you work with, after all” I nod as he takes my hand, kissing the back of it. “Thank you for the dance, Leti”

Moments later, dad taps the microphone ins his hand as he makes his way to the centre podium set up on the stage nearby. “Attention, attention… The moment you’ll all been waiting for has finally arrived. It’s time to welcome the new CEO of Lancaster Co…”

Anticipation and excitement running wild in your limbs, you star to walk to the stage, waving your hand to the crowd “Skylar Garcia!” the crowd erupts in a wave of applause and cheers of excitement as your mouth drops open, and you freeze mid-stride. After working day and night for him for years! After doing all the dirty work he asked! I earned this position with my sweat and tears! Who the hell is she? Where did she even come from? No one can just come and steal what belongs to me!

I stand there, silently stunned as Skylar walks up to the stage and thanks your father publicly with a bright smile and a handshake “Hey, Leti. I’m sorry. Are you okay?” Toby asks, materializing by my side. I swallow down my feelings and make sure I put a cold smile on my face “Oh yeah, completely fine. Choosing some skank over his own daughter is clearly what I consider the best decision my father has ever made for sure.

Several heads turn to me, including your father. I understand my plan worked well and add “What was her occupation? Something with public relations?” The images of Skylar kissing my sister flashes before my eyes “More like private relations!” I hear someone shocked gasp in the crowd. Dad, who made his way to the place I’m standing grinds his jaw, takes a deep breath and turns toward the crowd.

“Ladies and gentlemen, my apologies for this unfortunate interruption. My daughter has had one too many drinks already this evening. Please head to your tables. Dinner is about to be served.” He grabs me by the arm and leads me to a corner of the room, far from curious ears as Skylar follows with an annoyed expression on her face

“Who the fuck do you think you are, coming into MY house and stealing the job I worked my entire life to get?” I asked angry “Me? I know how much you wanted to be CEO, but it’s not my fault your father chose me” she said “That job was mine! You stole it from me!”

“Stop yelling at my girlfriend!” My sister said, coming to her rescue and angry “What did you just say?!” dad asked, surprised for what he heard Samantha say “I’ve wanted to tell you for a long time, dad. Skylar and I are couple”

Dad’s face lights up with fury, his eyes darkening as if they are about to explode out of their sockets “Absolutely not! You can’t be with a woman! Let alone the woman who is the new CEO of our company! Not now or ever, and especially not under my roof!” He yells

“Calm down, there are eavesdroppers around. Samantha’s your daughter! That has nothing to do with her being the new CEO of the company” I said, pointing at the new CEO “I’m sorry, I didn’t mention it during my interview, Mr. Lancaster. I feared your reaction” She said, “Why don’t we all try to calm down a bit?” Uncle Charles said, wrapping a hand around dad’s shoulder and leads him away, quickly followed be Bella and Samantha. Skylar, probably feeling bad about the drama she just caused, hides herself away in a corner and starts pouting.

I want to think she’s playing the victim card; I’m partially sure Skylar used my sister to get promoted. Sam is too gullible to see through people’s bullshit. Especially when she’s in love. As an idea sparks in my mind, I decide to join Skylar. I’m going to pretend to be her friend at least before I confirm she really isn’t using my sister to take away the job I worked all my life.

I take two glasses of Rasmussen champagne off the table next to me and offer one to Skylar as I approach her “I came in peace” I said trying to be convincing “Are you sure it’s not poisoned?” She asks, raising an eyebrow “I hate you a lot right now, but I’m not a murderer” I assured, handing her the champagne. She smiles at me with a hint of distrust but still reaches out her hand.

I put my best smile as Skylar accepts my glass as a sign of peace. We both sip our champagne, the air between us feeling tense and awkward “Listen, I hope you’ll give me a chance to make it up to you. I love Sam, and I know you love her too. I think it’s important for us to work things out” She said, and I take a deep breath “It’s not your fault. After all, you didn’t force the board to give you the job” I said sincerely “I… I don’t feel…”

Before she can finish her sentence, the glass of champagne she was holding falls and shatters everywhere and Skylar collapses onto the floor unconscious “Oh my God” I check her pulse, my heart pounding in my chest “She’s dead!”