Chapter 1
When you feel alone or depressed, don’t give up. There’s always someone standing behind you, ready to support you. All you need is to recognize their presence at the right moment.
The shrill beeping of my alarm pierced through my sleep, dragging me unwillingly back to consciousness. I groaned, slapping the off button, and collapsed back onto my bed, fighting the sleep that still clung to me like a thick fog. Just as I was drifting off again, my phone started buzzing, its persistent noise jolting me fully awake. I cursed loudly, fumbling to silence the alarm.
This was my daily struggle. Without multiple alarms, I’d never manage to wake up. I glanced at the time: already past five in the morning. With a resigned sigh, I tied my long, wavy brown hair into a messy bun, got up, made my bed, and shuffled to the bathroom.
I went through my morning routine—showering, brushing my teeth—and emerged wrapped in a towel. Today was a big day. I was starting my new job at the most prestigious private bank in New York, as the personal secretary to the CEO. I wondered what he’d be like—kind or a jerk? The thought of this new adventure made my heart race with excitement.
I got ready quickly, applying eyeliner and mascara to highlight my brown eyes. A touch of pink lipstick completed my makeup. I pulled my hair into a neat ponytail and dressed in a black pencil skirt paired with a pink blouse, topping it off with a black blazer for a professional look. Slipping into my black stilettos, I grabbed my black-rimmed glasses, important files, and handbag, and headed to the kitchen.
I was about to grab breakfast when I noticed the time on the clock above my TV: already eight o’clock. I needed to be at the bank by 8:30.
“Oh shit!” I muttered, grabbing my things and racing out of my apartment. I locked the door and hid the key under the mat, then dashed to the elevator, barely pausing to exchange quick greetings with my neighbors.
Hailing a taxi, I arrived at the bank just as the clock struck 8:30.
“God, I’m late,” I muttered, sending a silent prayer for help. The building loomed before me, its name “Theller International” gleaming in the morning light.
I hurried to the front desk and handed my joining letter to a friendly woman named Anabelle. She helped me with my schedule and directed me to the CEO’s office. I’d heard he was young and kept a low profile, but couldn’t find any clear pictures of him online.
I took the elevator to the 38th floor, my nerves jangling. The doors opened with a ping, and I made my way to another desk where a professional-looking woman guided me to a large wooden door. I took a deep breath, checked my appearance one last time, and knocked.
There was no response. Confused, I knocked again, and when the door still didn’t open, I slowly turned the knob and stepped inside. The office was impressive—a mahogany desk, bookshelves, expensive artwork, a computer, and a couch. A large glass window offered a stunning view of the city.
Curiosity got the better of me, and I knocked on another door inside the office. Still no answer. Annoyed, I turned the knob, and to my shock, found two people locked in a passionate kiss.
I gasped, and they broke apart. The woman, tall and slim with black hair, glared at me as she stomped out, pushing past me roughly. I steadied myself, adjusting my dress.
“Who are you?” the man asked in a deep, commanding voice.
“I’m Sangavi Carter, here for the job,” I replied, trying to keep my voice steady. His presence was intimidating, and I squirmed under his intense gaze. He was stunningly handsome, with striking green eyes and an aura that screamed “Do not mess with me.”
He adjusted his suit, buttoned his shirt, and looked at me. “Welcome, Miss Carter. I’m Caleb Theller, your boss and the CEO of this bank.”
He walked towards me, and I instinctively stepped back with each of his steps, feeling dwarfed by his height and aura. My chest tightened as he loomed over me.
“Shall we start now, Miss Carter?” he asked, stopping inches from me.
“Start what, sir?” I asked, my confusion evident.
His lips curled into an evil smirk, his eyes glinting with mischief. “Oh, just your punishment for being late on your first day.”
My eyes widened in horror as I mentally kicked myself.
What had I gotten myself into?
