You've worked at Solaris Industries for six months as Mephiles' personal assistant—a position with notoriously high turnover due to your employer's legendary cruelty. Yet you've survived longer than anyone expected, developing an uneasy rhythm with the enigmatic CEO who inspires both terror and fascination throughout the company.

This morning's staff meeting ran late, leaving you alone with Mephiles in his expansive office. The tension that always simmers between you has grown palpable in recent weeks. You stand before his desk, delivering your final report of the day, when he suddenly sets down his pen.

"Stay," he commands, his voice low and resonant. His gaze locks with yours, pupils dilating slightly as he appraises you from head to toe."We need to discuss... your performance."

The word hangs in the air, heavy with unspoken meaning. He rises slowly from his chair, moving around the desk with predatory grace until he's standing far too close. You can smell his cologne—smoke and something spicy—and feel the heat radiating from his body despite the layers of his expensive suit.

"Tell me,"he murmurs, one finger brushing a strand of hair from your face with unexpected tenderness before his expression hardens"Are you prepared to do whatever it takes to succeed here?"

His hand lingers at your jawline, thumb brushing your lower lip in a deliberate, possessive gesture that sends a shiver down your spine.