Chapter 1 Chapter 1

Chapter- 1 Tucking a strand of hair behind her ear, Ashley gripped her pen to write the feedback form. She still has not come out of the tension she had in the interview room minutes before, and she badly wants to go out of here as soon as possible. After writing a few compliments about their human resource team, she handed out the paper and walked out of the tall building she was in for the past three hours. The third job interview she is attending this month. Feeling nervous before attending an interview is what everyone does but Ashley felt nervous after coming out of the building because today she got rejected from one of the previous companies, and her possibility is cut down to two. Rejection is the only thing she has been getting for all this time, and she badly wanted a change. She wants a proper job that pays her well. She wants to live without having fear for tomorrow and to better her life. Heaving a sigh, she solemnly walked to the bus stop to catch the bus on time to reach her apartment before night. Though she is confident that she will get any one of these jobs for sure, she has to or else her apartment owner will kick her ass out and she would be on the streets then. She doesn’t know anyone or anywhere to go and she’s trying her best level to not end up in the streets. Ashley Parks, twenty-two years old, broke, single, a college graduate who’s searching for jobs for the past three months. Being graduated from a community college doesn’t open a lot of opportunities to compete with people who are having better degrees from reputed universities. She doesn’t have friends and always a loner for all her life. Her father, who was involved in gangs and the mafia died young before he could even know her existence. Then her mother who was once a hooker raised her with no love and care. She died two years back due to leukemia and Ashley was left to take care of herself. Perhaps this made her strong to face this cruel world and independent; Independent in the way that she has never depended on anyone and she has never asked any big favor from anyone. For some years, she lived under foster care who helped her to finish her high school and after she becomes eighteen she starts to live on her own. Ashley was a smart student but she couldn’t afford to get into a good university. She didn’t care much about the things which aren’t meant for her so she performed well in her health care major in the small community college and got the highest grades but she still couldn’t find a proper job ever since she graduated. After three and a half hours of boring travel, she reached her town. She’s too hungry and tired, but she doesn’t want to stop anywhere in the middle. When she reached her apartment, it is not an apartment more like a rat hole a very small, dark yet this is the place she can afford using her money from the part-time job. The first thing she’s going to do after getting a job was finding a new place. But will that happen? Only almighty knows Ashley thought heaving a sigh. She fell on her small bed and curled up her body to rest for some time. Ashley then remembered about the interview on Rex enterprise. “Ms. Ashley we are conducting this interview for a person who can work day and night without showing their sluggishness and if you get the job you have to sign a three years contract with us; you can’t leave this job and have to accept our terms and conditions which we will discuss later,” A man in his fifties said that to her after asking a few questions from her major. Without thinking anything she instantly said okay for the conditions because compared to other interviews which she has attended this one’s salary is high and away from this boring town. The interviewer just smiled and written something. Who won’t desire to work in Rex enterprise, which is one of the largest multinational company and there’s a known fact that they provide a good salary for every worker along with medical insurances? She doesn’t know whether she will get this job or not. But if she does then her life will change in a good way. Rubbing her eyes gently, Ashley saw the room. She has never got anything she ever wished for, whenever she hits the rock bottom, she asks why she even got this life? Why she never got to feel real happiness? Why no one is there to love her? But she never got answers to that. Maybe once she got a proper job, her lifestyle will change, she might get friends, a boyfriend, and so on. She had that pathetic hope and got down from her bed. Changing into her pajamas she went out to get something to eat. While locking her apartment. Mrs. Janet came across her. “Ashley, how was your interview?”“It went good,” Janet was a forty-year-old single mother living opposite her apartment. She is a nice person, the one thing that Ashley admires about her is how much she takes care of her children. She works hard to support them, and that’s something huge for Ashley as her mother never cared about her. “You will get the job, dear. Enjoy your day,” she said. “Thanks,” Ashley smiled and walked out of that old, grey building. The time is about 8.30 pm, the crescent moon is glowing for the day with its brightest shine. Ashley took a day off from her job at the convenience store to prepare for this interview. It’s not a bad job but she wanted to work in an office putting that Id card. It’s always a dream for her to live in the way how normal people are living. She took her mobile out and checked whether there are any messages, but there is none. She is anxiously waiting for the second interview result and tomorrow the Rex company result will be out too. She doesn’t know how she’s going to sleep tonight. She searched for Rex enterprises where she went for the interview today. It is one of the popular multinational companies across the world which is owned by Hector Black. He’s a billionaire by birth, inheriting all his father’s wealth. Ashely wondered how some people get everything they wanted. She looked at the handsome young boy who owns the company, there are no current pictures of him online and she thought he must be shy or something. Then she read the reviews for the company. Mostly positive reviews lined up in the comment section and also some former employees commented that there is a lot of work pressure and very strict conditions are followed inside the office. The more she read, the more she wanted to work in that company. Heaving a sigh, she continued to walk in that empty street, looking at the phone. While crossing that small pub on her way to the burger shop, a man suddenly dashed out and collided with her, hard. Ashley lost her balance and stumbled on the side pavement. Before she could get an apology from that freak, he ran away as fast as he could. Ashley was confused wondering why he’s running like someone is going to take his life then her doubt becomes true when a bunch of men came out of the pub running after him and Ashley’s eyes widened in shock when she saw a gun in one of the man’s hand. How can they carry a gun in the street without having a fear? She thought while she was looking at them running like crazy lunatics. It’s evident that they are all thugs and this area is away from the busy city and a lot of illegal things have been going around here. This isn’t the safest place so that’s one of the reasons Ashley wants to move out. “Catch him!” A raspy voice jerked her. She turned to see a well-built man, an intimidating yet the handsome face that she ever came across in her life, and a dragon tattoo covered his left hand, she could see those from his folded sleeves and she thought there will be more under his shirt. She couldn’t get another look at the man as he faced the other side. Her heart just stopped to beat, when he tugged his gun on his pants. He had that most furious aura around him. Before she could get another one look at him, he walked to the jaguar waiting for him. Two men are already sitting inside the car and waiting to hear his command. “Finish him without any traces and don’t make me come for this sort of business,” he frowned at his men. Ashley felt nothing but dread, those men were going to kill that man, and how easy that sounds for them. After they drove off and now only that unknown man and Ashley were standing at the place. She wanted to run away from there badly but still, she has to confirm whether she has already met that man. That man gazed at the surroundings, then his eyes landed on Ashley because there is no one walking in that street other than her. If it is a guy he asks his men to hold him at gunpoint and threatened him to forget everything he saw or even kill him. However, this girl, he can’t do anything. He never thought he will get caught by a girl? He made sure that no one is going to be here before coming down here and this is a terrible mistake. She saw my face, did she? He questioned before taking a step towards her. Ashley’s fear overtook her curiosity when the man turned to her side. Ashley immediately turned gazed at the ground and slowly moved like a snail without taking a proper look at him. This was the most frightening situation she ever been in. He stared at her long and fixed and that’s it Ashley started to walk as fast she could until she reached the burger shop then she breathed heavily. Is he going to follow me? Should I have to report this to the police? She thought but she doesn’t want to get involved in any stupid thing that will ruin her life and career. After munching a hamburger Ashley again walked in the same street but this time a few people were walking along with her. Getting inside her apartment, Ashley stumble on the floor. She never felt afraid for anything this much but today looking at the man gave shivers, his cold expression just did something. What if he aimed the gun at me and pulled the trigger? Oh my God! Ashely gulped and thought about the same thing again and again for the rest of the night. The next day when she opened her eyes, Ashley took her phone to check the message inbox. When she found there are two new messages, her heart started to race. Since they will inform the results only through the messages. She opened the inbox and stared at the screen in astonishment. Her face became sad. The text informs her that she doesn't get selected for the Rex enterprise. Ashley dropped her phone and again laid on her bed. She felt like crying since this failure seemed more; she planned several things for this job but now it is all came to an end. Nothing going to happen as expected. And she hasn’t heard from the second interview. Probably they don’t want me either, she guessed. With a rejection plastered face, Ashley started to prepare herself to go for a part-time job. When she was walking down the street, she felt something odd, the fear and failures slowed down her steps. She stood before the cash counter after getting into the convenience store where she is working full time now, and Ashley thought she’s going to be stuck in this place forever. It seemed endless, she doesn’t know why she is even living like a stupid who can’t even get through this simple job interview. The thought that she’s nothing made her eyes well with tears. All she wanted to do was hug her knees and cry hard for the rest of the day. When she was in her thoughts, a message popped on her phone, she took it and saw that great news. She got selected in that small health and insurance company as an intern. Finally, a smile plastered across her face, and happy tears surged in her eyes. Follow me on I******m- rosini19

Chapter 2 Chapter- 2

Chapter- 2 It’s better that I didn’t get the job in Rex enterprise and so everything happens for a reason, Ashley heaves a sigh having that thought. Though she got the job, she’s still sad to know that she didn’t get something which she looked forward to having it. Life never gives everything you wanted, but Ashley wondered why it always been this way. She tries and tries but always ends up getting the last thing that she wishes. It badly hurts her sometimes but she has that mentality to accept what comes in her way, or else she won’t here alive. Plastering a smile across her face, Ashley stood before the mirror wearing her tailored suit which she wore for the interview and she has no better dress to wear for her first day. “You can do it and you’re going to get everything you want,” she assured and turned to pick her bag which is placed on the bed, which she uses as a couch, table, and almost everything. It’s a single room apartment which can fit only a dresser and a bed. In this entire building, this one is the cheapest and tiniest. Ashley walked out of the apartment after locking the door behind. The sun is shining brightly today making the day warm and vibrant. She has never done this before and it’s been so long since she clicked a picture of herself, today she had that urge to mark her new journey by taking a picture of herself. That time, “Ashley!” Brian called her. He’s Janet’s ten-year-old son who just came out to go to his school along with his elder sister Marie. “Hi, Brian,” Ashley smiled. “You got the job?” he asked. “Yeah,”“Congratulations,” both of them said in unison. “Thank you guys,” Ashley smiled. “Shall I take a picture of you?” Marie asked her phone and Ashley gladly agreed giving her phone. She took a few pictures and gave it back before walking to her school bus which will arrive at the end of the street. Ashley walked along with them having a small talk. She walked in a separate way to the bus stop and to her luck, the bus is already waiting. She ran and got into it on time. Her office located just twenty minutes from her house which is kind of tiresome but she’s happier than yesterday. She got into the building on time and met the person who interviewed her. She told about her work schedules and showed her place. After sitting comfortably on her seat for a moment, Ashley looked around her. This is something she has always wished in her life and now it happened. With a big smile on her face, Ashley opened her computer. As a typical first day, she doesn’t have any work and stayed in her place having a few jobs. In the afternoon, she went to have lunch with one of her colleagues and she also got her temporary id. She asked her colleague to take a picture of her with that, seeing her image made her emotional. The flashback of her troublesome past just past before her eyes, until yesterday she felt she’s never going to get anything that she wanted but now, it’s changing, which made her feel happier. The people who treated me badly and those who ditched me are all going to look up at me, and regret for treating me like that, she thought with a smile. When she’s having her small lunch, she got a call from an unknown number. In a confusion, she slides to answer. “Hi! I am Meghan from Rex Enterprise. Is this, Ms. Ashley?”“Yes, Ashley speaking,”“I am calling you regarding the interview you attended the day before yesterday,”“Yeah, I got rejected,” Ashley rolled her eyes. “Actually, the candidate who we selected wasn’t willing to take the job right now due to some reasons so we looked into the other profiles and thought yours would be perfect. Are you willing to work in Rex Enterprise?” she asked and Ashley was taken aback by that. It added even more happiness to the already exciting one. But here lies the problem, she joined in this company. How can she quit now? With a distressed face, she said, “Sorry, I already got another job,”“Oh,” that lady sounded in disappointment. “But take your time and think about our offer. We are looking forward to having you onboard,” she said which made Ashley surprised. Why are they looking for me when they rejected me in the first place? And why are they even giving time for me? “Okay, I will think about that,” she told and ended the call. Is it really from the Rex Enterprise? She got confused and thought about this for the rest of the day. While leaving the office, her colleague accompanied her to the bus stop. “So” she got her attention. “How was your day?”“It’s fine,” Ashley answered. “But Ashely, I couldn’t say this in the office, and you should know this,” she started and Ashley becomes nervous to know what she’s going to bring. “You know, I was working here for the past year and they haven’t increased anyone’s salary until now. I think this company is running on bankruptcy,” she dropped a bomb on Ashley’s head. “What are you saying?” Ashley blinked. “A lot of employees were looking for some other jobs and they hiring just to show the company is all fine,” she said. “So? What you’re trying to say?” she asked her. “I am just saying this because don’t waste your time and energy on a place where you won’t get benefitted,” she said and that stuck hard on Ashley because she doesn’t want that too. She wanted a job that will give her the future she wanted and Rex enterprise is perfect for that. It’s one of the biggest companies which always benefits the employees, even if she quits from the job in the future there are many companies willing to accept her seeing her experience there. When finally, things were falling back to its place but again you’re pushed into a mess, how it will feel like? Ashley was right now in that state. She got no option than accepting Rex Enterprise’s Job which she always wished. Why God? Why? You’re giving me what I want but still, why this guilty sense like I am going to do something wrong, Ashley frowned for suddenly having this change in mind. She got utterly tempted to work in Rex enterprise and she didn’t want to miss this wonderful opportunity for anything. Ashley decided to make the best decision for her tomorrow. She got home at 6.00 pm. The sky has turned dark; she got thirty minutes for her shift at the supermarket. She doesn’t want to leave that job and asked them to change her in the part-time category. Sitting in her claustrophobic apartment is one of the worst things she could do after the tiresome day at work and that’s one of the reasons she continues to work at the convenience store. Slipping into the uniform, Ashley came out of the apartment. While walking she reminded the incident that happened the day before yesterday. That man, the tattoo on his hand; Ashley missed to see his face properly. Even if I saw him, what I am going to do? She brushes it off. Yet she’s quite daunted by that man thinking those types of people should never be out. While crossing the pub which is closed now, she got that fear she had at that time. Without looking further at the place she walked as fast as she could. Relief spread across her chest when she stepped inside the convenience store. Today she was assigned to work in the cash counter. While she’s doing her job, her manager asked her to come to his office. When she entered inside, “Here she’s,” a tall, rugged man said. He looked intimidating, rough, and more like a thug yet he’s handsome and along with him, a dark stout man who looked equally intimidating was standing beside. Ashley thought it must be something to do with the other day because she saw something that she shouldn’t. Leaving her inside, her manager locked the door and walked away. How terrifying it would be to stand with these two men who are looking like they are about to kill her. “Is… is there any problem?” she asked when they kept staring at her. She suddenly remembered these two men, she saw them in the car. That tattooed man ordered them to finish off the business. Why are they here? Ashley had that dread on her eyes while looking at them. “You were at the Pub, the day before yesterday, am I right?” that man asked, placing the gun on the table. “No, I am not,” When people are at the scariest situation they tend to tell lies which are so stupid and she did the same. They know that she was there and lying here isn't going to work out. The dark man chuckled, “Look baby, if you are going to lie, I am sorry but you have to face some bad consequences,” he said and they both came close to her. “Yes, I was there. I am not going to tell anyone and I forgot everything, okay,” Ashley said in frustration. “That’s doesn’t matter to us, we want to know what you saw there?” the rugged man asked her. “I saw a man chased by a group of men. And then I didn’t see anything and walked away,” she lied. “You didn’t see anyone there?”“No,”“You didn’t see us?”“N-No,” she stuttered because she feels this conversation is going somewhere. “Really?”“Yes, I don’t remember you,” she said. “Okay, fine then. Erase this from your memory too, that’s the best for your life,” he warned. “Sure, I will do it,” Ashley nodded. The men walked out of the room, leaving Ashley alone. But one thing that she doesn’t know was a pair of eyes looking at her through the camera that’s right above her head. “What you think?” that man asked on the phone when he got inside the car. “She’s lying,” the reply came back. “So, what you want me to do? Shall I finish her?”“No, Dan,”“Leave it to me, I will take care of her,” that raspy voice said. “Okay, but I think she won’t be a problem,” Dan said. Heaving a sigh, “I know but I can’t leave her like that,”“She saw me and I can’t let her like this,” he answered and ended the call. Standing in that grey penthouse, that man’s silhouette stared at the glimmering city probably wondering about his plans for Ashley. After coming home, Ashley couldn’t be at ease. How did they find me and even my workplace? she thought stumbling on her bed. She felt she has stepped in a dangerous mess; she knew people like them will always set eyes on people who bother them. Are they going to find that I lied or they know it already? Ashley wondered in Dread. The man who she saw on the other day, she doesn’t remember his face anymore but just his tattoo is still on her memory. She wants to forget this in order to escape and soon she has to find a better place to get out of everything. So for all this to happen, she has to join Rex Enterprise.

Chapter 3 Chapter- 3

Chapter- 3 “So what you have decided, Ms. Ashley?” Megan asked. “I am interested to join,” Ashley said wholeheartedly. “That’s good to hear,”“I will mail your job status and the rest. Please join the office immediately tomorrow,” she told and Ashely agreed. The first thing that Ashley did when she came to the office in the morning was confirming what her colleague said to her and she found that’s indeed true, she didn’t wait further and called Meghan to say that she’s interested in joining Rex Enterprise. After what happened yesterday, she can’t let another chance that could ruin her peace. She’s going to stop coming here from tomorrow and maybe giving a resignation after this week would be better, she thought and huffed looking at the boring office. “Thank god! You saved me,” muttering those words she spends the rest of the day. She left earlier today to drop by at the internet café. The email confirmed that she has been selected as an assistant personal executive at Rex enterprises. The happiness she had at that moment is unexplainable, she took a printout of that appointment before wondering how she’s going to get an apartment in the city immediately and started to look for it online. After noting a few places on her budget she came out. The evening is so vibrant, cloudy, and chill. On her way to the house, she decided to have dinner at the restaurant. She ordered a nice pasta and watching the television, she had that in peace after a long time. On the TV, they are reporting about the gruesome death of a local mob. Seeing that Ashley stopped eating and went closer to the screen to take a clear look at that man. Her eyes widened when she confirmed that he’s the man who collided her in front of that pub. So he’s dead? They killed him! Ashley has never been so frightened, and the events that were happening in the past three days weren't helping much. All she could do is to sit there and stare out in fearful silence. That night, she couldn’t fall asleep easily. One side she’s too excited about her new job and on the other side this murder, she is the sole witness of that homicide. Ashley even got nightmares about those men, guns, murder, blood, and so on. In the TV report, they said there’s no specific suspect has been identified. But she knew who murdered him. This is one of the worst feelings she ever had in her life. The next day, she got ready early before the sun could even shine in order to catch the first bus on time to reach the office which is located in the heart of NYC. The fresh air of the city made her smile and she felt like she’s finally escaping. Like always, the grand office doors welcomed her and after having a lot of security checkups she was let in by the cute security guard. She met Meghan in person and realized she was the one who organized that whole interview on the other day, but she didn’t interview anyone. Meghan asked her to wait in the conference room and went to get the documents which have to be signed. There are a total of fifteen floors in the whole building and more than a thousand plus employees work here. This is a huge place, Ashley thought looking around at the conference room. “Hi Ashley, let me introduce me first. I am Meghan Green and I am the personal assistant of Mr. Hector,” she introduced. She must be forty plus, Brunette, tall and sexy woman. “Nice to meet you,” Ashley smiled. She gave a nod. “You are going to be my assistant and that’s your job. Lately, I couldn’t handle most of his schedule by myself. You have to listen to everything I say and work sharply on time. It won’t be hard because I won’t be hard on anyone unless we have tight schedules. Our boss is really very strict and he fires people immediately if they aren’t up to his level. But you don’t have to worry, there’s nothing like that going to happen. It’s an easy job with a good salary,” she blurted. “And you already know that you have to sign a three years’ contract because I wanted someone who has a complete dedication for this job and I hope the contract is not a problem for you,” she asked. “Yes, absolutely,” Ashley nodded her head. “So you’re willing to work here?”“Yes,” she told. “Okay then take your time, read all these things, and sign the papers,” Meghan said walking out of the room giving her space. Ashley got bored after reading the first two pages. These law terms aren’t got into her head. She looked around at the people through that glass wall. If they can work here then I can do it too, she had that courage and filled all the blank spaces left for her signature. In the excitement she didn't read anything, all she wanted is this job. She closed the pen and placed it above the document. Meghan came in carrying another paper to fill. “Just fill out these general details for me and that one is for your ID. Before going downstairs just drop this paper at the reception and they will get your new ID,” Meghan said with a smile. Ashley thought she’s so helpful and enthusiastic. “If you have anything else, then please ask me,” Meghan added. “Thank you, that’s so sweet of you,” Ashley again smiled. After filling out the forms, Ashley came out with the papers. She handed those to Meghan and said, “Actually, I am looking for a place. At this last moment, I couldn’t find anything for my budget so I need some time to settle down,” Ashley said. “You don’t have to worry about that. I know a perfect place for you,” she said and Ashley was so surprised by how everything is happening perfectly. “Really?”“Yeah, I heard Anne is looking for a roommate. I will introduce her to you,” Meghan said, “Follow me,” She took her to the closed boxes of cabins where people are so into their computers. “Hey Anne, look at your new roommate,” Meghan kind of making the situation weird and Ashley can’t help but smile. “Oh, what?” Anne gave that same weird look. Oh god, why is everyone so beautiful in this office? Ashley thought looking at that beautiful blond woman. “Hi, I am Ashley,” she reached out her hand. “I am Anne,” they had a little hand shook. “So what do you say? Will you take Ashley as your roommate?” Meghan asked. “Sure, where are you from?” After answering her questions, the next thing that Ashley asked was, “How much is the rent?”“I actually own the place, I don’t ask much, the rent is 1500 dollars per month. Your room will be big. I will buy all the kitchen stuffs and we can share the money. And then… that’s it,” Anne said. Ashley felt so happy to hear that because the places she saw were expensive and the rents are above 2000 dollars. This is a great offer and under the budget. “So what do you think?” she asked. “It’s a wonderful offer. I want to see your place,”“Sure, shall we go to my place at lunch?”“I would love to,” Ashley agreed and they exchanged phone numbers so that they can meet outside the building. “Very well then. Everything is sorted out I guess,” Meghan told. “Now, Ashley go and give this form at the reception and enjoy your time looking around the office. You can start by tomorrow.” Meghan added. “Thanks, Meghan. I will see you tomorrow,” Ashley told and walked along with her to the elevator. “I have work because Mr. Hector leaving the country today or else I would take you around,”“That’s okay, you have done a big help to me,” Ashley entered the elevator and pressed the ground floor. She handed the papers to the reception desk and went to the cafeteria as she didn’t eat anything from the morning. The delicious food is free here and Ashley was so happy to know that. She got herself a drink after breakfast and walked out of the building. She got into a bus that leads to times square as she never been there before. It’s indeed a beautiful place, she toured around the streets and bought a small lamp for her new house. She returned to the office area on time and met Anne outside. They both went in her car and it’s just a few blocks away from the office. “So, did you looked around the office,”“No, not very much, I went outside,”“So which department you work?”“I work in advertisement and marketing area. It’s a hard job,” Anne heaved a sigh. “But you’re lucky to work with Meghan, she’s a nice person and sometimes weird,” she smiled and Ashley nodded. “The only problem that you got is our boss. He’s sometimes a jerk, he will fire people for crazy reasons and he will get angry like a maniac. I advise you to be perfect,”“Sure, I will do my best,” Ashley smiled and felt afraid. “Great,” They reached the apartment building and their house is located on the sixth floor in that 12-floor apartment complex. Anne opened the door and Ashley was amazed by the interior. It’s so pretty and aesthetic. No wonder this girl is indeed a lively person. “This place is so beautiful,”“Thanks. I will always keep my house clean and clear; I want you to do the same,”“Sure, I will,”“Come I will show you the room,” Anne took her inside. The walls were painted in sandal and white; she has designed the house in the Boho theme. Ashley got elevated when Anne opened the empty room for her. It’s a beautiful room and a big window is there. It’s triple the size of her apartment which she’s currently living now even with that small cot. There is an attached bathroom was there. This is more than enough for Ashely. “Do you like it?”“Yeah, it’s great.”“So when are going to move in?”“Shall I move in today?”“Sure. I will give you one of the keys,” Anne said with a smile. Ashley finally seeing people who are nice and friendly. This gave her a comfortable feeling. “Here, this is your key, roomie.”“You can buy whatever you want for your room, but I will decide on the living space and the rest. I won’t allow people to stay here and no pets because the building has that rules.”“Okay, I don’t have much stuff. This is the first thing I bought for my room,” Ashley said pointing the small lamp. She placed in on the table and came out of the room. “What happened to your previous roommate?” Ashley asked. “She got married,”“Oh,”“Okay, I will drop you at the bus stop. You have to pack and come back here right,” Anne said and walked out of the house and Ashley followed thinking she’s sweet. She noted down the address so that she wouldn’t get confused while returning here. “I will wait for you at night. Come safe,” Anne said after dropping her at the bus stop and went away. The time is 2 pm when Ashley got inside the Bus, and she reached her home at the evening. She left her old bed at the apartment itself and took only the new things with her. It only contains two bags which she easily carried to the Bus stop. Before leaving she said goodbyes to Janet and her two kids. She also asked the landlord to transfer the deposit amount to her account and he did that immediately. Ashley has already quitted her Job at the convenience store and the payment for this month was transferred making her balance in the five-digit number for the first time. After getting on the Bus, she heaved a big sigh and a serene smile spread across her lips. This night is the best night of her life. She’s finally going to live without any fear and she’s free out of sufferings!

Chapter 4 Chapter- 4

Chapter 4 “All the best for your first day,” Anne said while walking to her place. She's such a good person. In the morning she cooked Ashley breakfast and gave her a ride to the office. Ashley thought these were something she only heard and saw in the movies and TV shows. As far as she knew, people were always hard on her. “Thanks,” Ashley smiled and walked to meet Meghan inside the CEO’s wing. Meghan was sitting before her computer, sipping her iced tea. “Good morning, Ashley. Have you settled down?” she asked. “Yeah, I did. Thanks to you,”“No problem. Take your seat,” Meghan said. It was beside her desk and Ashley had a big smile when she sat there. “Today, I am free. Mr. Hector won’t be here today, and I have fewer things to do. So in this time, I will teach you about your work,” Meghan sat straight on her chair. “Okay,” Ashley nodded. Until lunchtime, they talked about a lot of stuff and about Mr. Hector. Ashley learned that he’s a perfectionist and a short-tempered person. Then Meghan told some of her personal life and Ashley can understand why she needed an assistant. Looking after two kids, house, husband, and this job will be really restless for Meghan. Then they went for lunch at the cafeteria. Today’s menu is Indian, Ashley never had Indian food and she greatly enjoyed the chicken gravy they served along with the roti. “Ashley, tell me about your parents,” Meghan asked. “My parents died so early, I don’t know much about them,” Ashley avoided that question. “So where did you grow up?”“Foster home. I had lived in five foster care and then I started to live on my own after eighteen,” she said. “Oh, that must be hard on you,” Meghan said. “Yeah, but not now,” Ashley smiled and continued to have lunch. “I forgot to tell you about this, when Mr. Hector comes back tomorrow, don’t introduce yourself to him. I will do it because you know he’s not that welcoming of a person,” she said and Ashley nodded. And the rest of the evening, she worked on arranging Hector’s schedule as per Meghan’s request. In the evening, both the roommates went home after stopping by Starbucks to get their evening coffee. Ashley arranged her stuff neatly in her room. It didn’t take much space on her cupboard most of them were empty. The lamp is glowing brightly on the table beside her bed. The fragrance of the room is so calming. Ashley walked to the window with a smile and saw the drizzling rain damping the beautiful city. The knock on the door got her attention, “Shall I come in?” Anne asked. “Yeah,”“You own less compared to my previous roommates,” she said looking around and took a seat on the bed. “You have few clothes too,” Anne smiled. “Yeah,”“Do you know any place for shopping?” Ashley hesitantly asked. “Oh come on, I will help you,” Anne said. After knowing about Ashley who doesn’t have anyone to support her, Anne felt sad for her and has that concern to help Ashley. “That will be a big help, and it’s better if that’s under budget,” Ashley said. She wanted to go shopping to get something good to wear for the office, all her dresses show her nothing but a prude. “Of course, it will be,” she said. “When shall we go?”“Anytime, when you’re free,” Ashley smiled. “Okay, let’s go on the weekend,” The day after tomorrow is the weekend and Ashley becomes too excited. They ordered Chinese food for the dinner. That night when she was about to fall asleep, her phone started ringing. It’s from an unknown number. “Hello?”“Ashley?” a sleek man’s voice called her name. “Yes, who is this?”“Someone you shouldn’t know,”“What?” Ashley sat upright. “I know what you saw on the other day,” he said. Ashley didn’t reply, only the dread-filled in her eyes. “Do you think that you have escaped after moving out of that place?” he chuckled and Ashley gulped. “No! You’re just where I want you to be,”“Look, I don’t know who you’re. But please understand that I don’t remember anything and just leave me alone,”“That’s the only thing will never going to happen,” he said before ending the call. Ashley stared at the phone screen, wondering what this person wants from her. He’s not bothered by the fact that I know about this murderer, he wants something from me, or else they won’t drag me again and again into something which I don’t want to get involved. What I even have to give him? She thought and thus today’s sleep got disturbed too. Ashley was always battling with insomnia since she was fifteen when one of her foster father abused her. She tried not to take those medications which will make her sleepy all day but ever since he came into her life, it’s sickening her. She doesn’t want to ruin this life at all. In the morning, while her way to the office, she picked up coffee for Meghan and Mr. Hector’s usual cappuccino at the café. This is her first job as an assistant in the morning. When she entered the cabin Meghan left a sigh in relief. “Thank god, you’re on time. Mr. Hector just now came. I will give this to him and I will tell him about you,” she said taking the coffee. “Okay,” Ashley waits in her seat preparing how to greet him and all. Today she’s wearing a black tailored pants and a white shirt. Her long brown hair was tied in a ponytail. She’s too beautiful in that little makeup. Meghan came out having a tensed face, “Ah… he’s really in a bad mood. But he asked you to come in, go and greet him,” she said. This is worse than last night, she sighed and knocked on the door. “Come in,” a raspy male voice ordered. She walked in with a smile, “Good morning, si…” she slurped when she saw his face. If the employees of the office are on a level of beauty means this guy is on another level. Ashley didn’t imagine in her wildest dream that her boss will be this drool-worthy kind of handsome. He had that striking pair of azure eyes; he must be tall even though she saw him sitting on his chair. His raven black hair was styled crispy and his tux clinging on his perfect manly form. “Good morning,” he said. His voice, Ashley felt something strange while hearing that. “So what’s your name?” he asked looking at his computer screen. “Ashley Parks, sir,” she answered. “Okay,” he gazes at her long and intent. Ashley’s heart starting racing seeing his eyes, she felt unusually compelling. He snapped their gazes by turning back to the computer screen. “Did you heard about your job?”“Yes, sir,” Ashley nodded. “Okay then, get out of here and continue it,” he commanded and Ashley went out. “What did he said?” Meghan asked. “Nothing, he asked me to do my job,” Ashley sat on her chair still having that bewilderment of seeing him. Why do I feel this way? This isn’t good, she thought. When she’s trying to calm her anxiousness. Hector came out of his office, he’s really tall like above six feet. When he crossed their desk, “Hey, newbie. Come with me,” he said and Ashley’s eyes widened with shock. She got up immediately and looked at Meghan who signaled her all the best. Why he’s asking me to accompany him, am I going to be fired today? Ashley walked with him to the elevator which he privately uses. When they were inside, she gulped and saw his masculine frame and his broad shoulders. “Ashley!” Hector got her attention. “Yes, sir,”“Do you know about this city?”“No, sir, I am new here,”“Then how did they picked you?” How do I know that? She thought and felt whether he’s going to fire her now. “Okay then, where do you stay?”“Three blocks away. I staying in Anne’s house,” she answered. “Anne, the one works in the marketing department,”“Yes, sir,” she nodded but wondered why he’s so interested in her business. He nodded, “How long do you think that you’re going to last in this job?” His question made her scared, she looked at him and he stared her back. “As long as I perfectly do my job,” she answered. “Okay, that’s a good answer,” he nodded. There’s something strange she feels when she hears his voice and the way he looks at her. They came to the ground floor, “I want you to pick my lunch at Pat’z Deli. Get their best menu, take one of the car keys from the driver, and hear carefully, you should be here before twelve. Good luck,” he said and sat inside the car waiting in front of him. She then got the keys and asked the driver where that hotel is. To her luck, she got there on time amidst the heavy traffic. When she said it’s for Mr. Hector, they packed their best menu and gave it to her. While returning back she got stuck in the traffic and she thought she’s definitely going to be fired today. She reached the office at 11.59. She ran into his cabin with the food to see him sitting casually on his desk and reading a book. He gazed at her and his watch, “It’s twelve one. You’re late,” he said. Ashley mentally screamed and didn’t say anything, “But for a first-timer, it’s okay. Leave it on the table over there,” he said, and Ashley did. When she came back to her place, “What happened?”“Glad, I am not fired,” Ashley huffed and sat on her chair in tired as she has done something big. With a smile on her face, Ashley continued her job.

Chapter 5 Chapter- 5

Chapter- 5 The week has passed since she joined in her job. Everything is going fine in her life, but she still fears whether she will lose her job one day. Hector was like a ticking bomb; no one knows how he will react. But in her case, he’s a bit lenient and that’s what everyone says. One day she forgot to bring the files to his desk on time, Meghan said if it was someone else he would have fired them immediately but surprisingly he didn’t, which made everyone raise their eyebrows. Meghan was friends with a lot of persons in the office, she has to be so that she can report it back to her boss since he cares about his employee's thoughts and needs but she also shares a lot of details about him to them and the things that were happening around him. So it's obvious that she told about this new girl who has been escaping from dismissal. Now a lot of people know about Ashley and she smiles at them when they give her a weird look. But they never know how much she’s fearing inside. He’s in a good mood at all those times and he didn’t care that much since he was busy. She’s making sure that she shouldn’t commit a single mistake but sometimes like those things happening. From getting a coffee in the morning until picking up his dinner one time, and she even got snacks for him from the specific shops across the city. Because of him, she has learned a lot about the routes in a quite span of time. His schedule was kind of peculiar, he never stays in the office a minute extra. He gets calls from a lot of different numbers and his schedules for weekends were always anonymous. He’s a different person, more private, and of course he indeed a perfectionist. She has seen it and she kind of likes it. “Hey Ashley, can you get the file from Mr. Hector,” Meghan asked. “Sure,” she nodded and walked to the door. “Come in,” he said hearing her knock. “He’s munching the chocolates looking at his computer screen,”“Sir, Meghan asked for the trade documents,” she asked. “There,” he pointed. “Thanks,”“Hey, wait,” he stopped her, “Take some,” he said pushing the box. “No… thanks,” Ashley hesitated. “I am ordering you,” he flickered his eyebrow. Without having another word, Ashley took one. “My girlfriend gifted those,” he added and Ashley instantly raised her gaze to him in surprise. As far as she heard, he doesn’t have a girlfriend. Maybe they don’t know him, she thought and felt sad about losing something she never had. It’s her admiration for Hector. Sometimes, he talks friendly which made Ashley blush and she’s in the early stages of attraction. This is hurting a little. “Thanks,” she says and walks out with a gloomy face and Hector watched everything. Ashley walked to the restroom after giving the files to Meghan with no other word. She has never been attracted to anyone and the first time it’s kind of distressing. She spends some moment in the silence and came out to find Anne. “Hey,” she smiled. “Hi,”“What happened?” she asked seeing her face. “Nothing,” Ashley gave a smile. “Okay. I am here to say that I am not going to come home tonight. I will be staying in my boyfriend’s place,” she told. Anne has this mysterious boyfriend that Ashley hasn’t seen yet. His name is Dylan and she heard he’s a nice rich guy. “Okay, enjoy then,” Ashley smiled. Anne nodded and went inside the restroom. Ashley then went back to her place and Meghan wasn’t there at her place. Just be cool, Ashley. You make yourself look like an idiot! She frowned looking at her reflection on the black screen of her computer. Out of nowhere, Hector came out with the rest of the chocolate in his hand, “Take it,” he said. He didn’t mind that they will be visible through that glass wall and what if someone sees them. She thought why he's giving her these chocolates which were given to him by his girlfriend? “Why-why you’re giving me this?” she furrowed her eyebrows. With a smirk on his face, he leaned on to her desk and said, “This is not from my girlfriend, in fact, I don’t have one.”“I lied to you,” he said. This is like a nightmare happening in the broad daylight seeing the way he’s flirting with her. “Why?” Ashley muttered. “I want to confirm something,” he told. “What was that?” she asked. He again smirked. Before he could answer, Meghan returned back to her seat and broke off their conversation. “I am leaving, Meghan. Tomorrow, get all the stuff ready for the meeting. This chocolate is for both of you, thanks for the good work,” he said before walking away. Meghan was confused seeing Ashley's flushed face. Ever since Hector selected her for this job, she’s seeing things that are weird. She understood there’s something going on between them. Even the chocolate on the table confirming that. “You know, Mr. Hector never shared his things,” Meghan said pointing that box. “Oh, maybe he doesn’t like it, I guess,” Ashley said and didn’t talk afterward. While leaving office, she kept thinking about that conversation they had. Why did he do that to me? Is he taking me easy? No, Ashley, you’re going to end up terrible if you think of him in that way. Just end these thoughts. Ashley didn’t mind that she’s walking in that less crowded street until a car pulled by her side –blocking her way. “What the hell!” she gritted as it’s quite scary. Opening the window shield, that rugged man, who she met a couple of times said, “Hey,” Ashley's mouth dropped in shock wondering how did he know that she is here. She has not even said that she’s moving here then how could he know that? “What you want?” Ashley screamed looking around to find that she’s in the middle of an empty street. “Get in the car,” he ordered and there are two other men inside. “W-h-y?” she asked. “Our boss wanted to meet you,”“I don’t want to come. I told you right, I know nothing, so please go. I am begging you,” she pleaded. “Get in the car, and stop this fucking drama,” he didn’t get convinced. “Please I can’t. In the middle of this evening, I can’t come with you,” she nodded. “So you said that you don’t know anything but you searched that man who we killed almost eleven times and you have found me from where I come.” he said and Ashley's eyes widened in shock. He’s so right. She was curious to know who these people are and ended up finding that they are from A dangerous mafia group. Their leader was an unidentified person and Ashley guesses that must be that man with that dragon tattoo. That’s why she’s been followed like this. They might be doubting that she saw his face but she didn’t know him, and that’s the truth. She mostly forgot about the incident. If they leave her another month then she will forget the whole incident. All she could get was frustrated by the way they are treating her. Ashley thought these are a bunch of fools or maybe a bunch of psychos who feels so happy inflicting pain on others. “No,” she nodded. “Come on. I am talking with proof.”“You’re spying on me and my phone. God!” He heaved a sigh, “Don’t waste my time and get in the car.”“No, please I can’t,” Ashley's eyes welled in tears thinking whether they will do something to her. “Oh stop that,” he gritted, “No one is going to kill you. I will drop you here after the meeting,” he said. But still, Ashley couldn’t believe that. “I have never talked softly to anybody. Just get in the car and do what I told. That’s the best for your life or else…” he slides his jacket to show his gun. Ashley agreed at last and before starting the car, they blindfolded and handcuffed her. “Hey why you’re doing this?” she asked. “This is mandatory and you know what you’re dealing with,”“Whatever!” Ashley muttered. “You know my name, don’t you?” he started a conversation. His boss has never been attracted to any woman before and he just wanted to know why he’s so interested in her. “Yes. Daniele de Andrés right?” she asked. “You’re right,” he answered. “But don’t utter my name anywhere again,” he warned. “Fine,” Ashley sat there in silence and darkness. They tied her ears along with her eyes so she could only hear a slight noise. After some boring thirty minutes of the ride, the car stopped before the tallest building in the city. They dragged her inside through the backside entrance. She felt that she was in the elevator when she got that pulling feeling on her stomach. In all these times, she felt less dread compared to before. They are not going to kill her is a big relief for Ashley. The elevator door opened with cling and they again guided her to the long corridor. Before getting inside they tied her hands in the back which made Ashley scowl. The door opened and the smell of alcohol and rich cologne welcomed them. Ashley stood waiting for that man to talk, she decided to face this with courage instead of fear. “So you are here,” the familiar voice sounded so near to her. It’s the same man who talked to her on the phone. Goosebumps aroused on her skin to know that she’s near to the most dangerous man. “Everybody, leave,” he commanded. Footsteps slowly moved and faded with the door closing. After a brief moment, “Why am I here?” Ashley asked. “I didn’t ask you to talk,” he said near her ears. Ashley stepped away in terror but he pulled her close to him. “Want to know why you’re here?” he asked near her face, almost near her lips. His breath smelled like a costly wine, his perfume smelled familiar and the way his hands snuggled around her hips gave shivers down her spine. “For this,” he told, and the next moment his lips devouring her soft lips. Ashley was taken back by this sudden kiss. She’s kissing her nightmare, she’s sharing her first kiss with the man who she hates to remember and she’s sharing her precious moment with the person she has never seen before. In all ways, this is so wrong and this is so unfair. He licked her lips asking for an entrance but she is stubborn to let him. “Kiss me back, I know you want it,” he tempted her with his sleek voice. Ashley done the biggest mistake was giving up at that moment, she doesn’t know why she did that, but in that vulnerable state she wanted to kiss him back and she did that with no regrets. It was a wet, sloppy, and passionate kiss. It lasted until they both were turned on by the effect. He left her lips when she forgot what she’s even doing. “Have you had chocolates, you taste like that,” he kissed her cheeks. Ashley was all flushed than before and looked down in embarrassment. “You’re a good kisser, probably the best I kissed,” he complimented. Ashley was silent and felt ashamed of herself. “It’s done for today, see you later,” he said. “Wait, what do you want from me?” she asked. “Didn’t you figured out?” he chuckled and Ashley doesn’t want to accept that. That will be the worst thing that could happen to her in this lifetime. She can’t let this happen. “It’s you that I want,” his answer made her sad, and tears brimmed out her eyes. “No, please. I don’t want to be near you,” she sadly uttered that. “But I want it and soon you will want that too like this kiss.” He shut her mouth telling how she kissed him back. “Don’t take any stupid decisions to escape from me. You know, wherever you go I will bring you back to my bed.”“That’s a mistake,” she argued. “Mistake?” he came close to her. “I don’t think that’s a mistake. You enjoyed it,” he answered. “But…” he cut her off saying, “No more talking,” he said and the door opened. Again Danny and another man took her out of the room. They pushed her into the car and Ashley silently sat there in sadness. “Don’t ever talk about anything that happened here to anyone. You know the consequences right,” Dan warned after taking her blindfold. Ashley got down from the car which is parked before her apartment building. “Meet you soon,” he said before driving away. Ashley didn’t react to anything and went into her house and locked in. She started shedding tears for being trapped like this.

Chapter 6 Chapter- 6

Chapter- 6 “What happened to you lately, you’re looking so dull,” Meghan asked. “Nothing, I am alright,” she nodded plastering a smile. “Really?” she again asked. “Yes,” Ashley nodded and continued to stare at her computer screen vacuously. She’s waiting for the time to pick Hector’s lunch other than that she didn’t have much work. What Meghan asked was already asked by Anne two days back. How can she say that she was kissed by a man who she knows nothing about? And he’s planning to do everything he wants with her. This is insane! Ashley couldn’t think of a way to escape from this. It feels like she’s stuck in a labyrinth. If she wanted to escape death is her only way or just dealing with this bravely. When she was in her thoughts, Hector came out taking his blazer. “Ashley, come with me,” he told but that didn’t hear in Ashley ears. “Ashley,” he again called her and she jerked anxiously. “Sorry, sir,” she apologized looking down. “Daydreaming in the work time, what do you think of this job?” he scowled. “I am sorry, sir,” she stood up apologetically. “Stop apologizing and come with me,” he told and walked out of the office. She followed him to the elevator with a heavy heart. She’s anxious when she will lose this job because of the chaos in her life. While silently standing in the elevator, Hector asked, “Is there any problem?” Ashley was surprised by his sudden concern about her. “No, no sir,” she answered. “You seem out of the place, if anything bothering you, share it with others or face it bravely,” he advised. “Sure, sir. Thanks you,” she smiled. “Can I know where we are going?” she asked him when walking to the car. “We are going to have lunch?”“Why you’re taking me with you?”“Because I need a company,” he answered. “But sir, why do you need me as your company?” she asked, couldn’t understand his intentions. “You talk more, you should be grateful for what I am doing to you,” he annoyed. “I am sorry, sir,” she looked down biting her lower lip. Hector clenched his teeth in irritation and looked out. The car stopped before the best restaurant in the city and Ashley followed him inside looking at his tall frame. What’s that bothering her so much right now was his cologne. It’s the same as the man with whom she shared her first kiss. This reminds her of him, she not even knows his name but she likes his voice. Ah… this is fucked up. What did he do to my stupid little brain? Ashley gritted in annoyance. They sat on the table, and Hector ordered his lunch. When Ashley looked at the menu card, she saw every dish is so costly, some are double her salary. “I can’t afford this, sir,” she said. “Are you kidding me? I will pay the bill,” he said. She hesitantly ordered a light food and sat there gloomily. “Okay, come on. Spit it out, I have been seeing you for the past two days. What happened? Is there any problem?” he asked. She smiled thinking how weird this is! Why he’s so concerned with my business, I am just an assistant to his PA who just joined two weeks before. This isn’t normal. “Why you’re asking me this?” she asked. “I notice, I ask,” he shrugged. “Thank you for your concern but there’s nothing bothering me.”“Are you sure?”“Yes,”“Can I know why you’re so concerned about me?” she asked. “I am just curious about you,”“Why?”“Look, this isn’t any special treatment kind of thing. I always look up to my employees. You think you’re the only person I am having lunch with. I had lunch with many of my employees, okay. Don’t go with your imaginations,” he retorted. Ashley felt sorry for acting this way, “I am sorry, sir. I am just…” she looked down unable to say anything. “That's fine,” he told and the food came. Before taking a bite, “So there’s no problem? You’re cool?” he asked. Ashley wanted to tell him her trouble, maybe he could help her since he’s a rich man, a powerful person too. But she couldn’t. This might be his trick to fire me and I don’t want anyone to know my chaotic life. “Yes, there’s no problem sir,” she nodded like everything is fine in her life. “Good to hear that,” he smiled and continued to eat. Ashley stared at the man, why it is so weird to me? Is it how he usually behaves or is he really having a special concern about me? This is why you should never listen to people’s opinions on others who you know nothing about. It will greatly fuck up your mind. If you want to know a person you have to talk to them. She had the food, and he didn’t talk much. He went to that silent mode again and he dropped her at the office before leaving her without a word. Ashley came back to her seat and Meghan came after lunch, “Ashley, where have you been?” she asked. “I went to get Mr. hector’s lunch,”“Oh!”“So you haven’t had lunch yet?”“No. But I am not hungry,” Ashley said hiding that she had lunch with their boss. She doesn’t want any rumors to surround her. “Okay,” Meghan smiled and sat on her seat. Ashley felt she have to ask this, “Meghan, did anytime, Mr. Hector took you or any of our colleagues for lunch,”“Maybe with his business partners. He never had lunch with his employees. He’s a very private man but sometimes he used to sponsor lunch for everyone,”“Oh, so he never took anyone for lunch?”“As far as I know, No,” she answered. “Why you’re asking this?”“I am just curious,” Ashley said and turned to the other side without knowing whom to believe. That night, while walking to her house, she felt afraid whether she will be again block by those guys and taken to that man. But that didn’t happen that night and she slept better than yesterday. Days passed and Hector turned blind eye to her. He didn’t talk the way he uses to talk before. He didn’t mention about the lunch they had and he didn’t ask any single question to her even when they are alone. On the Friday evening, on her way home, when the least she expected Danny’s car pulled by her side. “Get in,” he said. “Look, I can’t come,” Ashley said nodding. “Again and again! Arguing isn’t going to change anyone’s mind. So don’t waste time and get in,” he frowned. Ashley got inside, like before her hands and her eyes, ears were tied. She leaned back on her seat feeling the rhythm of that car. It’s stopped before the same building. Ashley noted that the elevator travelled more than two minutes which she guessed this must be a tall building. The door opened and again the guards left her with that man. Ashley heart raced and waited for him to talk but his lips met hers in delight. He pulled her closer to him and kissed her so passionately. Ashley can’t help but kiss him back like they are lovers meeting after a week. There’s emotions in this kiss compared to before. There’s a yearning, happiness and desire. After the kiss, she breathed looking down. “How have you been. You look tired, have you thought about me all the nights?” he asked. She loves this voice and she badly wanted see to who it belongs to. “No, why should I think about you when you’re a nightmare,” she replied. “I am your nightmare? That’s good to hear. You know sometimes, you can never forget your nightmares and I’m glad that you won’t forget me,”“Whatever?” she huffed, “Look, what exactly you want, I want to know that?” she asked straightly. “I want you. I want to make you mine and I want to do every crazy thing that’s running in my head. Do you understand what I mean?”“Don’t you understand that is stupid?” she countered. “I don’t think so,” he said. “I don’t even know you,”“I haven’t seen you and I don’t know your name,” she screamed. “My name is Vincent,”“That’s not your true name, isn’t it?” she chuckled because she doesn’t believe him a bit. “No, it is,”“Okay, Vincent. Can I call you like that?” she asked. “Sure, you can,” he agrees. “So you’re the boss for this mafia… gang?” she’s too nervous and she doesn’t want to ask stupid questions. She’s too careful in putting her words. “Yeah, I am.”“Then what else… don’t you show your face?” she asked. “No,” that’s a sharp answer came from him. “Why not? If you want me then you have to show me your face,” she said. She doesn’t want to talk anyway that could piss him off and that will lead to her murder. And there’s this comforting feeling around him, like he’s not going to hurt her. He smiled, “No, that won’t happen, honey.”“Why? You look ugly?” she giggled. “No!”“Then why not?”“I have my reasons. I don’t want you to see me. It’s going to be a problem to you,”“Okay, then I can’t agree to anything you say,” she answered. “You know you can’t deny me. I get what I want,” he got that cocky tone while telling that. “Is my face needed for you to sleep with me?”“Oh God, you don’t understand it. How can I sleep with someone who I couldn’t see? That’s insanely stupid. And how could I be with someone who’s dangerous and involved in gangs?”“You don’t have to worry about that,” he said. “What if you do something to me?”“I won’t,”“What if you film our thing and put it on the internet?” she again questions. “Ah… that’s a good idea,” he exclaimed. “What???”“You think way too much, honey!” he sighed. “When I am not going to show my face to the girl who I am going to have sex with then how could I film it for others?” he asked. “Look, I want you. I don’t know how long I will have this feeling but I want you. I will give you anything for that?” he said. “I am not a prostitute,” Ashley said. “I didn’t mean that. I said I will do anything to have you,”“Why? What is there in me?”“Everything I need,”“You know, I am the plainest person in this entire world,” she says to avoid that statement. “That makes you unique,” he answered. “Why you’re so stubborn,” she frowned. “I know it’s absurd for you. But I am just asking you to give it a try,” he said. “How can I believe that you have no other intentions other than sleeping with me?”“Yes, you have to believe me. I don’t have any other intentions. I don’t even know you before, and you didn’t see me too, right?” he asked. Ashley nodded. “Even if we see each other in the future, you cannot recognize me. I saving up the drama, what do you say?” his sweet talk is kind of interesting her. “No, I don’t like this way,” she nodded. “Look, you will enjoy this way. No strings attached and I will make you happy, I promise,” he assured like a gentleman. Maybe he is! Ashley was silent sometime, thinking why she couldn’t deny this proposal. She’s so tempted to know this guy who thinks her perfect. He’s fascinating and wants her. Maybe this is going to be risky but she’s greatly smitten with this guy. The way he talks, he’s kind of funny and interesting. Sometime you have to take extra risks to get what you want, in order to know about this man, she has to do this. “And finally you aren’t a psycho right?” she asked. He chuckled, “Yes, I am a psycho. Not with a girl like you, maybe with the people who are opposing me,” he answered. He knows very well to get people to do what he wants. The more he talks Ashley wanted to try this kind of relationship. She doesn’t want boyfriends right now, and she can’t die virgin. “I need some time,” she requested but her voice already lingering with the feeling I-want-you. “Okay, take your own time, but I only want yes from you,” he said coming closer to her. “Let’s see,” she smiled. Vincent kissed her unable to control his urges. They just showed their yearning through that kiss. “You like it, don’t you?” he asked when she’s gasping after the kiss. “Yes,”“Then you want it,”“Hello, I didn’t say that,” she retorted. “Okay, I will wait for the moment to hear your yes,” he smiled squeezing her butt cheeks. Ashley bite her lower lip controlling her moan. “Please I have to go,” she said when he showered kisses over her neck. “Okay,” he nodded. “Tomorrow, this time, I will be waiting to hear your answer,” he said. Ashley nodded blushing. He’s too charming for a gangster. He again gave a wet sloppy kiss which she could remember for the rest of the night. “I will see you tomorrow,” he said. “Okay,” Ashley nodded. Vincent asked his men to take her to her home. Ashley kept smiling throughout the ride. “I think I will see you more often, I guess,” Danny said with a smile. “Maybe,”“See you tomorrow, good night,” Danny said and left the place. Ashley got inside when Anne is making sandwiches for the dinner. “Hey, why you’re so late,”“I had some work in the office,”“But I saw you leaving earlier.”“I went to the finance department downstairs. Hector asked me to… get some files,” Ashley lied and it felt bad. “Okay, come and have the sandwiches,”“Sure, I will change and come,”“And Ashley, are you free tomorrow? We can go out and see a movie, what do you say?”“Oh, I am sorry, Anne. I have plans for the evening. Shall we go in the morning,”“Oh, okay,” Anne’s face slightly frowned to see the sudden change in Ashley. She sensed that she’s lying but she didn’t ask. Ashley thought how can she say that she’s going to sleep with a mafia boss yet she’s not allowed to see his face. God this is stupid! Ashley disgusted but she doesn’t want to say NO.

Chapter 7 Chapter- 7

Chapter-7 Is this a good decision? Am I taking the wrong way? Yes, I am, Ashley thought looking at herself in the mirror. She’s standing in her lace red panties and bra. She has that small belly that didn't look weird and there’s this anxiousness dangling across her face which she couldn’t hideaway. Whatever it is, I can’t escape from this. It’s not going to hurt me, she said to herself and moved to her wardrobe. She has never done anything daring in her life, always lived under fear but in this she wanted to do something crazy. Her disturbing loneliness met the perfect shady companion to dance. She doesn’t have any clue about how it’s going to be. She took a brand new peach-colored half-shoulder dress which she has saved for a special occasion. She doesn’t know why she wanted to wear that but she did. She puts on her dress and looked at herself in the mirror. For her eyes, she looked beautiful after a long time. She left her hip-length-hair free after brushing it a few times. She just applied a tint of lipstick and other than that she didn’t do anything to look great. Anne left to meet her boyfriend at his house after they went shopping today morning so Ashley is alone in the house. She moved to the window and the evening is so beautiful with that slight rain. That time her phone started ringing and she picked up to find it’s from Dan. “I am here, come soon,” he said and she nodded. Ashley walked to the car putting her usual shoes. As usual, he tied her hand and eyes with a cloth specially designed to hide away the rest of the world. She thought from where they are getting this kind of stuff. Ashley waited for the car to halt. The minutes while going to his place made her think a lot of things. But the one thing that made her terrified is, what if she falls in love with him? The door opened and the familiar scent welcomed her. Once the door locked, Ashley gasped. “Welcome back,” he said. She nodded. “So can I hear that,” he asked mischievously. She smiled biting her lower lip. “Don’t do that; I badly wanted to kiss you right now,” he whispered. She gulped and parted her lips to say those words which he wanted to hear. “I will sleep with you," she said. It’s so absurd to say that bluntly. Vincent's lips curled in a smile, “Okay, will you do whatever I say in bed?”“Maybe, but not this BDSM shit,” she crossed her hands telling that. He chuckled and said, “I am not into too.” Relief spread across Ashley’s face when she heard that. “Will you come here when I ask you to come?”“Sure, but not in my working hours. I don’t want to lose my job,” Ashley said. Her heart is throbbing inside. “Fine, I don’t want to meddle in your work life.” Ashley was quite surprised by the way he’s considerate so she said, “Thank you.”“That’s okay, you are going to love all the things which we were going to do, that’s all I care about,” he muttered and came closer. “I wanted you to… know that I am a… virgin.”“No problem, I will be easy on you,” he kissed her cheeks. “I am going to be special to you, am I right?” he asked. And there Ashley was struck by the truth. He’s going to be her first man but she’s not even going to see his face. Maybe in the future, she will get a chance or not but she can’t see him now which made her hesitant. “Don’t be bothered by anything, you want me, just keep remembering that,” he said near her ears and she forgets everything like he has put a spell on her. Vincent walked away to take a proper look at her. He gazed at her innocent little frame waiting for him to own. The excitement that he’s going to explore every bit of her skin makes him restless. He wanted to fuck her right now in all the wild ways that are running in his mind. He moved closer to her, “Vincent,” she called his name. “Yes,” he snuggled his hand around her small waist. He kissed her lips, turning on her desire, and diminishing her senses. “Vincent,” she moaned but forgot to tell what’s on her mind when he kissed the most sensitive part of her neck. “Let me undress you,” he said and unclasped her hand. But he didn’t entirely remove the cuff, it still hanging on her right hand. He unhooked her dress one after the other, and in a slid it fell on to her toes. The cool breeze kissed her naked skin. She’s standing in her underwear and her body is heated by the touch of his fingers. His eyes saw her petite frame in a delight. It’s like a hungry man seeing a piece of cake. He wanted to have her all by himself. He unclasped her bra hook and that fell too. He leaned closer to kiss her erect nipples, sucking, and nibbling made her drown in pleasure. Without wasting this chance, he clasped her hand behind, thus making her unable to remove her blindfold. “Move a little,” he said and Ashley's legs touched the bed foot. He made her sit on that soft mattress and in the time he removed his boxers, freeing his throbbing girth. He moved closer and looked down at Ashley's lips. He kneeled taking a closer look at her flushed skin. “This isn’t needed here,” he told and got rid of her panties covering her seeping core. “You don’t know how fantastic you look when you’re naked,” he breathed near her skin. She gulped her saliva to comprehend this feeling. His hands held one of her breasts and gently caressed while the other hand rubbing her delicate folds. This made her swirl in pleasure. “You’re already wet for me,” he talked dirty. She has never experienced this before but this is indeed good to feel. She left out a moan when his rubbing pleasured her more and he smirked hearing that. “Do you like that? he asked. “You’re allowed to answer,” he said when was silent. “Yes,” she moaned. “Then how about this?” he slides one of his fingers and that made her wimp. “Easy, it’s just a finger, what you’re going to do for my...” he asked which turned on her even more. All she could see is darkness but it doesn’t bother her much. The way she enjoys it makes him want to do it any further delay. He took his fingers on the time when she wanted it to continue so badly. “It’s time to know how you feel like,” he told and hovered over her delicate frame. “Please remove my handcuff,” she asked when that hurts her a little and he removed only to tie above her head. He tore a condom looking at her perfect figure. “He’s so eager for you,” he smirked before thrusting himself slowly. “You’re too tight for me,” he grunted. Ashley felt really uncomfortable but yet she likes the way it is. Soon the stingy feeling vanished and took her in a different state. She wanted to hold him against her but she couldn’t and she badly wants to kiss but she couldn’t. She moaned his name whenever he thrust hard which gave her that clinging feeling. “Vincent…” she panted when her legs started shaking for her release. Her legs curled against his hip as he’s thrusting her delicate walls briskly. He likes how her walls clenched against his thickness. The more he thrust in, the more it made her moan and him groan. The slapping sounds of their body heard all around the room. “Is this good,” his voice cracked. But Ashley didn’t care that much and said, “Yes. Please kiss me,” she told him. He kissed her like taking the life out of her. So much wetness and passion. His thrust made her cum making it sloppier and lewd. He thrusts his cum inside the condom and laid on her panting heavily. Ashley’s legs were tired by the effect and gasping for the air. “How you feel that?”“Is that good?”“Yeah,” she smiled. “Now I am still having something for you,” he said nibbled her tits. Then played with his tongue. “Vincent, do it again,” she said couldn’t get enough of him. “That’s what I am going to do,” he chuckled and pulled out shaft. He removed his condom to put a new one. “Do you want rough or sweet,”“Sweet,” she smiled. “Then I will go for rough,” he said and parted her legs. Giving a kiss on her lips, he thrust her hard and fast making it the most memorable night of her life. After six more orgasms in four different positions, he laid there tired, panting, and sweating out the heat. Ashley curled in the bed beside him. Her skin is all wet, flushed, and hot. “Are you okay?” he asked snuggling her from behind and gave a kiss on her nape. “You almost killed me,” she chuckled. He smiled and turned to kiss her on her lips. “You’re so pretty,” he breathed caressing her cheeks. After staring at her face a few moments, “You should go now,” he said. “What?” Ashley asked. “Yes, we aren’t lovers to spend time after sex,” he talked in an unsympathetic way and her face frowned to hear that. “Get my dress,” she got up and said. He took all the clothes and watched her getting dressed. When she was struggling to zip her dress, “I will help you,” he pulled her zip and straightened her hair. “Meet you soon,” he said giving a parting kiss. She nodded with no smile, “You’re not angry, aren’t you?” he asked. “No, why should I be?” she shrugged having a smile. “I have to go,” she said. “Okay,” he nodded and asked his men to take her. While going back she didn’t feel her best and cried for doing this. After removing her blindfold, her eyes were red. “Good night,” Danny said noticing her face. “Good night,” she said and walked to her house. The first thing she did was getting inside the shower after removing her clothes. The hot water eased her soreness. “Everything is going to be alright? Who knows,” she muttered heaving a sigh.

Chapter 8 Chapter- 8

Chapter- 8 “These are the files which you have asked, sir,” Ashley said to him placing it on his desk. “Okay, what about those emails,” he asked and Ashley mentally frowned thinking why he's rushing things today. Meghan was in charge of that and she's already having a pile of other works too. "I will send you shortly."“Okay,” he nodded simply without any remark about being lazy and raise his head to meet her face. “Can you get me a coffee?”“Sure,” Ashley nodded with a smile and walked out of the cabin. She entered the pantry room and made the coffee thinking about what is wrong with her. She kept thinking about the great sex she had with Vincent and she’s yearning to meet him again. It’s been four days since she lost her virginity and it’s not a simple thing to forget and continue another job. There’s something bothering her for so many unexplainable reasons! And she wanted to meet Vincent again. Why doesn’t he miss me, at least for his needs? Oh god! There’s a less chance that he would be seeing only me right now. These men sleep with all women who fall in their lap, she thought and poured the coffee on the mug. After adding extra sugar as he prefers, Ashley walked to his place. “Your coffee, sir,” she smiled and he looked at her. “Do you have a boyfriend, Ashley?” he asked. “What?”“Do you have a boyfriend?” She doesn’t want to say yes and she doesn’t want to tell him no. He’s flirting, that’s all she could think. Saying yes would be better and maybe he could stop having these small chats sometimes. She doesn’t want to talk to him because she admires him too. “Yes, I have a boyfriend,”“Really?” he exclaimed and raised her eyebrows. “Yes,”“What is he doing?”“He runs a small business,”“Oh, What kind of business?”“I am not sure. We just now started dating,” she lied. “Oh. Where did you meet him?”“Before a bar. He kind of liked me the moment he saw me and he got my number. Then we started seeing each other,” Ashley said and suddenly her eyes fell on his arms which is covered by his white shirt. There’s a black tint at his elbow but before she could get into her thoughts. “Oh, good then. Go and continue your work,” he said casually and continued his job. Ashley regretted telling a lie after coming to her place but she doesn’t care. “Hey, I have sent you the mail. Please send it sooner, Ashley,” Meghan told when she’s blankly staring at her. “Sure, I will do it now,” Ashley assured and continued her work. During the lunch break, Ashley understood that she’s needs him and she decided to call Dan. So she walked to the secluded place to talk to him. “Hello, it’s me Ashley?”“I know. Why you’re calling me?” he asked. “Yeah, I don’t have anyone’s number except yours,” Ashley rolled her eyes. “Okay, what is it? I am in the middle of killing this butthead,” he gritted. “I want to talk to your boss,”“Okay, but you can’t call him now,”“At least can I get his phone number?”“No, you can’t,” he retorted. “Then can you tell him that I want to talk to him,”“Sure, I will tell him and I will ask him to call you,”“Thank you,” she ended the call. Minutes passed and an hour passed but there are no calls from him. Hector came out of his office. “Ladies, I am off to home, see you all tomorrow,” he said with a smile. “Sure,” Meghan smiled back and Ashley had a little smile. “Did you see that?”“What?” Ashley asked in confusion. “I have never seen him so happy before. I think he’s seeing someone,” she said. “Really?”“Yeah, you know he haven’t been in a relationship for a long time and this happiness is might be because of some woman,” she clarified. “Oh, is he never been in any relationship?”“As far as I know, he isn’t’ in any relationship in a long time. Maybe he’s seeing someone secretly,” she grinned. “This secret relationship is always exciting right,” Meghan sighed, “Ugh… I never had one,” she sighed in dismay. Ashley gulped looking down. She’s right that is exciting. When she was smiling, her phone started ringing, It’s an unknown number and it must be Vincent so she immediately walked out to answer it. “You said you want to talk to me. What is it?” he asked in his unsympathetic tone. “I want to meet you,”“Why?”“To talk about something,”“You can tell me on phone,” Oh, come on, why he’s playing this hard-to-get game? “Okay, we agreed to sleep with each other and I want to sleep with you today,” she said without hiding. Moments later he said, “You’re clear in your point and I like that,”“Look I am not desperate or…” before she could finish. “You will be with me at 8.00 pm,” he said and ended the call. Ashley smiled and carried the phone back to her place. She wants to talk about everything that’s bothering her. She was in her room when the clock strikes eight. Her face looked anxious and determined. As usual, she was taken to him in the same manner she was taken before. But today the ride was short, and it’s a different building. It’s more like a mansion. Dan took her in the steps and left without another a word. “Ashley,” Vincent’s voice made her smile. “Vincent,” she smiled back. “This isn’t your usual place, right,”“Yes, you are right,” he held her hand and guided her inside. The smell of fresh lavender made her surprised. “Which place is this?”“You think that I will give you my address?”“No, I am just curious,” she said. “This is one of my homes. I am happened to spend time here today,” he answered. “Okay,” Ashley nodded. He helped her to sit on the couch and he sat beside her, “What do you want to talk to me?”“Ah… after that night, I was kept thinking about you,” Ashley confessed. Maybe she’s not this kind of needy character before but she has her reasons. “Okay, I can see that,” he smirked. “So, can I call you when I wanted to be with you? You know, we agreed to this on mutual opinions. How I am needed to you, the same way you’re needed for me,” she said. “Okay, we will have sex when you wanted too,” he said, “But you should know that I am really busy with so many things. Even when I want to have sex with you, I couldn’t find the perfect time in the past days.”“Oh okay. but it’s not what I am here to talk right now. It’s about what I need in exchange because I didn’t want this sex part, this is your intention. I want to be with you when I wanted too, you’re just picking me on the road when I am not in the mood. And I want you to give me prior notice.”“Fine, that’s it?” he asked. “No,” she nodded. “I didn’t come to the important part,” she told. “What it is?”“When you’re with me, you should not sleep with anyone else. This thing between us isn’t anything meant to me or to you, but I am not comfortable if you sleep with other women,” she said. “That sounds like a real lovers thing but I understand. And for your information, I am not seeing anyone else. In fact, you’re the only woman I have been seeing in a long time,” he said. “Okay, that’s good,” she nodded but didn’t smile. “Then what else?”“I don’t want this to continue more than six months unless you show your face,” she said. He was taken aback by that. “Why?”“Because that’s weird. Without seeing your face how I can continue for a long time? If you are in my place would you do that?” she asked. “Okay, let’s have this for six months, and then you and I were never going to meet again,” he assured and Ashley nodded. “That’s it?”“I think yes,” she replied. “Come on get up?”“Why? Should I leave now?” she asked. “No, I am taking you to the bedroom. Since you’re going to be with me for six months, I am going to have you as much as I can,” saying that he took her in his arms. “You want it right now?” he asked her. “Yes, of course,” she giggled. He took her to his bedroom and he kissed her fervently. She kissed him back with equal passion but her handcuffs really disturbed her. “Can you take this off? I want to enjoy it too,” she told. “I will do it but you should behave. Don’t ever try to take your blindfold. You got it?” he warned. “I won’t,” she said but a slight part of her heart wanted to take it off and see him. But she knows it won’t be a good idea. He started undressing her hastily and in a minute she’s there naked. After undressing himself, Vincent took her hand and placed it on his shaft. “You’re turned on,” she said. “Yes and it’s because of you,” he again grabbed her face and started kissing her hungrily. They both fell on the bed and he hovered over her naked frame. Kissing her tits; “You are going to love this honey,” he said and started chafing her throbbing clit. The squeaky sound of her cum heard louder in that silence. He brushed his cock over that making her moan in excitement. “I love when you’re too wet for me,” he grunted. “Fuck me, Vincent. I need to feel you,”“I love when you ask me,” he giggled and caressed her lips again. He didn’t wait for any further and thrust her with all his length. Ashley arched her back when this sudden pleasure hit her. When he started moving she parted her legs wider and held him close to her. Since he let her touch him, she can feel his sculpted body. He back was toned, muscular and so as his arms. He didn't let her touch his face and hair. Contrary to what she thought, he smelled good and his skin is smooth. “I am going to cum,” she felt her muscles contracting for the release. “Hold it, honey. I am Cumming too,” he said accelerating his thrust. In one last thrust he damped his condom on the inside and she on the outside. Panting heavily, he fell on her sniffing her lavender scent and there he realized that they both are having similar tastes. “That was one great moment,” she said. “Let’s make another one too,” he said and this time, he hand-cuffed her hands since she kept touching and he’s afraid whether he will let her do that every time. He turned her around and thrust her from behind holding her hair. Ashley’s moans muffled when her face pressed against that soft mattress. He held her hips firm and thrust her fervently. After he had his orgasm, he laid back and she fell on the bed in tired. “I think it’s enough for today. I have to go,” Ashley said to him. “Okay,” he nodded and got her clothes. He dressed her up and Ashley smiled by his sweet touches. “You know what I really wonder how you look?”“You want to know?”“Yes,” she giggled. “Forget it because that won’t happen,” he smiled and gave her a kiss. “Fine, I like it better this way. I can imagine whoever I want, even I can think as you like Chris Hemsworth because your body kind of reminds him,” she giggled. “Don’t do that,” he warned. “Then how do I imagine you?”“Okay, next time I will tell you how I will look. Now go,” he said and again kissed her. Ashley nodded and was taken to the car. “Drive her safe,” he said to Dan and Ashley likes that gesture. She doesn’t know why but she badly misses him now itself. He’s attracting her more than he should, and that’s so familiar and upsetting. It feels like he’s someone she knows but she doesn’t have any clue about it. This is going to be hard for me and for him? I don’t know…. Ashley wondered standing beside her bedroom window. She hopes these six months should pass as soon as possible, he’s never going to show his face and she’s afraid to continue it any further that’s why she puts that condition. Ashley doesn’t want to fall for anyone until she figures out what she wants in her life. Heaving a sigh, Ashley came out of her room only to see, Anne kissing a handsome guy. When they heard Ashley’s footsteps they turned their head to see her. “Hey, Ashley, meet Dylan,” Anne said awkwardly. “Hi,” Ashley smiled. “This is Ashley, my roommate, and my colleague,”“Hi, Ashley,” Dylan smiled. His face looked similar to someone she knows. “She’s Hector’s assistant PA,” Anne said. “Oh, is he fine?”“Yeah, he is,” Ashley nodded in confusion. “Is he growing a beard again?”“No,” she blinked her eyes. “Good to hear that,” Dylan smiled. “You’re probably wondering why he is asking about him,” Anne said. “Yeah,”“He's Hector's half-brother.”“Oh, great,” Ashley smiled looking at Anne. “But we aren’t in good terms now,” Dylan said. “Sorry to hear that,”“Don’t be,” he smiled and left after saying goodbyes. “Ashley, please don’t say this to anyone, especially to Meghan. I don’t want to lose this job and Dylan was a good guy but I don’t know how long this will go so I don’t want to ruin my profession because of my relationship,” she worriedly said. “I understand you, and I won’t tell anybody,” Ashley patted her shoulders. “So where you met him?”“Actually he came to the office one time and we met there. He liked me in the first meeting itself and we went for a date. One thing leads to another and now we have been dating for the past three months.”“That’s so nice,”“Yeah, until Hector doesn’t know about this,” she worried. “Don’t worry, he won’t find,” Ashley assured. “I hope so,”“What’s Dylan doing?”“He runs an Architectural firm,” she said. “That’s cool and he’s handsome like Hector,” Ashley said. “Yeah,” Anne nodded blushing hard. When Ashley walked to the kitchen to make her dinner, Anne said, “Do you have a boyfriend, Ashley?”“No,” Ashley disagreed in the way that no one could believe. Anne agreed without arguing much since this conversation is weird. She went to her room after saying good night. Ashley had her dinner watching television and slept peacefully that night.