The next morning, I woke to find all the girls sprawled across the carpet, still deep in sleep. I couldn't help but chuckle at the sight. Quietly, I made my way to the bathroom, brushed my teeth, and set out extra towels and toothbrushes for the girls so they could freshen up when they woke. Then, I began cleaning up the mess we'd made the night before.
As I tidied up, the events of yesterday came rushing back, and my heart clenched with bitterness. I couldn't help but hate that arrogant man even more than I already did.
Just then, my phone rang. Without glancing at the screen, I answered.
"Hello," I said, my voice still thick with sleep.
"Good morning. Is this Miss Emma Stone?" a formal voice asked from the other end.
"Yes, speaking. How can I help you, ma'am?" I replied, suddenly more alert. Her tone was professional—this had to be important.
"I'm calling from Jay Enterprises. After carefully reviewing your application and evaluating your interview, the board found you suitable for the position. On behalf of our team, I'm pleased to congratulate you—you got the job."
For a moment, I stood frozen, heart pounding, adrenaline surging. Did I hear that right?
"Thank you so much, ma'am! I—I promise to work hard and give it my all," I stammered, unable to hide my excitement.
"We're glad to hear that. Please report to the office tomorrow to complete the formalities. You'll begin work on Monday as Mr. Alexander Allan's secretary."
My heart skipped. Did she just say… Alexander Allan?
"I'll be there. Thank you again," I said, trying to sound composed.
"Once again, congratulations, Emma Stone. Goodbye," she said and ended the call.
I stood still for a second, letting it all sink in. A smile tugged at my lips. I was beyond thrilled. I practically danced through my chores, humming happily, and even made a full English breakfast for the girls. I knew they'd bombard me with questions as soon as they smelled the food.
But my joy was short-lived. Reality came crashing down. Alexander Allan. That was the same jerk from yesterday. Of all the people in the world, fate had tied me to him. Still, I needed this job. I had to tough it out. I just needed to keep my head down, stay quiet, and endure. Like cotton—soft, silent, and unbothered. That was my plan.
Just then, the girls walked in, confusion written all over their faces.
"Wow, someone's in a good mood," Brittany commented, raising an eyebrow.
"Yoh, Brits, you're right—she looks like she just won the lottery," Amber added, eyes narrowing suspiciously.
"Can we eat first before we go shopping, or are you too afraid I'll empty your bank account?" I teased, trying to dodge their questions.
"English breakfast? Now I have to know what's going on in that head of yours, Emmy," Amber said, practically yelling.
"Well," I started with a grin, "while you were still snoring, I got a call from Jay Enterprises. And guess what they told me?"
Their eyes widened.
"OMG! Emmy, you got the job? Congratulations!" Amber squealed, launching into dramatic praise. "You better take me out for a fancy dinner—I'm so lucky to be your friend!"
"Wait—you got the job? Congrats! Now it's time to lose that virginity to one of those hot company men. I heard even the security guards are drool-worthy," Brittany added with a wink.
"No one said anything about that," I laughed. "But yeah… I might finally be able to move out of this apartment. Still, I have a bad feeling. I don't know if I'll last."
"Why not? It's a dream job! You're going to be the CEO's secretary—that's huge!" Amber said, shocked.
"Well, here's the catch—my boss is Alexander Allan," I said.
They both blinked.
"Wait… Alexander Allan? You mean like that douchebag from yesterday? No way—it's the same person?" Brittany's eyes went wide.
"You're so screwed," Amber whispered.
"Let's not dwell on it. It's not like I'll be wiping his nose or flushing his toilet. I'll just do my job," I said with a shrug.
"Gross. Have some class, secretary," Amber teased. "Now let's eat before it gets cold. We've got shopping to do."
Laughter filled the air as we dug into breakfast, joy and anticipation swirling around us.
Meanwhile, on the other side of the city, someone else was plotting a more devilish scheme.
Alexander Allan sat in his study, uninterested in the woman his father had matched him with. His butler, Mr. Richard, greeted the arriving guest with professional courtesy.
"Good morning, Miss Blossom. It's wonderful to see you," he said.
"Hang this for me," she replied coldly, handing him her coat.
With silent annoyance, Mr. Richard took her to the sitting room, where Alex lounged, seemingly oblivious.
"This way, Miss Blossom," he said, pulling a chair for her across from Alex.
"Mr. Richard, please bring breakfast—for both of us," Alex said, still not looking at her.
Lucy tried to ease the tension. "I know you probably hate me for agreeing to this, but I don't want it either. Let's just… go with the flow, okay?"
"If you say so," Alex muttered. "Peter!"
"Yes, sire," the servant responded.
"Bring the blue file from my study," Alex ordered.
As Peter left, breakfast was served. They ate in silence, lost in their own thoughts. Soon, Peter returned with the file.
"They're not for me—pass them to Miss Blossom," Alex said coolly.
Lucy's heart skipped as she accepted the documents. Was this how he planned to get rid of her?
"This is a contract," he said. "We have no real relationship. We'll act the part for our parents, but privately, there's nothing between us."
"I see. What's required of me?" she asked, voice flat.
"To remember not to fall for me. If you sign, you agree not to ask about my whereabouts, visit my office uninvited, or post anything about us online. No photos, no public affection. Understood?"
"Understood," she said, signing, though unease twisted in her gut. A part of her still believed he'd eventually fall for her.
The silence returned. Then Alex spoke again.
"Our parents have spies. To keep up appearances, we'll go shopping and see a movie today. Also, that contract includes a non-disclosure clause. If you reveal any of this and I find out, you'll owe me five billion—or your father's company."
Lucy clenched her fists beneath the table. "You really are determined to keep us apart."
"I just want clarity," he said, rising. "Now, get ready. We've got a performance to put on."
He offered his hand. She took it.
They climbed into Alex's Bugatti Veyron and drove off. Unbeknownst to them, fate was already weaving a tangled web—one that would eventually crack even the coldest of hearts.