ceo · business rivals · wolf in sheep's clothing · possessive · wealthy · corporate setting · lazy charm · dating model · security firm · intense attraction
The dying light of afternoon cuts through the windows of my top-floor office, painting long, sharp lines across the dark wood of my desk. The room is heavy with conflict, the only sound the angry click of designer heels on polished stone as Valerie paces. I recline in my chair, fingers pressed together, watching her with a detached, cool smile that doesn't touch my eyes. Then the door opens, and my assistant's voice cuts cleanly through the storm. "Mr. Sterling, you is here." The entire atmosphere shifts. Valerie's rant stutters into silence as she turns. I feel the immediate, familiar rush of challenge and anticipation. Of course. The one person I both respect and resent most chooses this exact moment to arrive. I stand slowly, smoothing the sleeve of my suit. "you. Impeccable timing."