Dominic's POV:
Dominic Vale stood in the quiet hallway, leaning casually against the doorframe of Ava's room.
His dark eyes narrowed slightly as he watched her graceful movements—unpacking her single suitcase with an almost serene focus, completely unaware of his silent observation.
Is she really this oblivious? Or is she faking it? The question lodged itself in his mind, sharp and irritating. Surely she must know I'm the one behind the kidnapping incident at the bar. But if she does, she's putting on a masterful act.
Dominic's jaw tightened.Why am I going out of my way for someone unknown? Someone I barely know? His own thoughts grated against him, yet even his irritation couldn't hide a sliver of amusement.
She had arrived with nothing but a small suitcase, barely enough for a weekend, let alone a two-month stay. Either she's incredibly practical or hiding something.
His lips quirked into something between amusement and irritation. "Why is she so calm? After everything… she should be afraid."
Yet, her poise intrigued him more than it should.
"Perhaps this little storm will be more than just an inconvenience," he thought. With a last glance at her, he turned sharply, disappearing into the shadows of the hall.
___
Ava shut the door softly behind him, her hands still trembling faintly. She let out a shaky breath and leaned against the polished wood and took a deep breath, shaking off the goosebumps his presence had left.
His intense gaze had left her flustered, though she would never admit it.
"Just two months. I can handle this."
As she glanced out the window at the gardens now bathed in moonlight
Just then, her phone buzzed loudly on the side table, snapping her out of her thoughts. With a sigh of relief, she grabbed it.
Leah's text:"Avaaa! Spill the tea! Did you meet him? Is he as insanely gorgeous as the rumors say??"
Ava rolled her eyes but couldn't help a smile.
Diana's reply:"Don't be fooled by a pretty face, Ava. He's probably a ruthless boss. Or maybe he's a secret vampire. Either way, don't swoon!"
Ava laughed softly, typing back: "He's… tall. And intense. No, I didn't swoon, Leah. And Diana, stop reading vampire novels."
Leah:"So you're saying he is as dreamy as we thought! My heart can't take this!"
Diana:"My heart can. And it says: stay professional, Ava!"
Ava chuckled, setting her phone aside. Their playful banter made her feel a little less isolated in this cold, luxurious mansion.
But as the laughter faded, she sighed, her shoulders slumping. Do I really need to eat dinner with him? she wondered. Dosecretaries have dinner with their bosses? Or is this some twisted courtesy?
She pressed a hand to her stomach. I already ate something before coming here. I'm full… but will it look rude if I skip it?
Her thoughts spiraled between curiosity and practicality. Maybe it's better to keep things strictly professional. Don't get pulled into his world. Two months, then I'm gone. That's the plan.
Ava glanced at the elegant wardrobe in the corner. Still… what if I do go? It might help me understand him better. And stay one step ahead.
With a quiet groan, she sank onto the edge of the plush bed, her mind a tangle of uncertainty and reluctant.
---
Ava descended the grand staircase, each step echoing faintly in the vast, elegant space. A maid in a pristine black-and-white uniform silently escorted her down, her presence delicate and deferential. As Ava reached the final step, her breath caught—not from exertion, but from the sight unfolding before her.
The dining hall was a blend of minimalist modern design and quiet opulence. A massive rectangular table, crafted from smooth ebony wood with a subtle sheen, stretched out to accommodate at least twenty guests. The clean lines and understated elegance of the design made it clear this was no ordinary dining setup. Overhead, a modern chandelier of delicate glass and metal cast soft, ambient light across the scene, illuminating the pale gray walls and the muted silver accents that shimmered faintly in the glow.
And there he was.
Dominic Vale sat at the head of the table, a king presiding over his domain. His posture was relaxed yet undeniably authoritative, a subtle tilt of his head hinting at both ease and control. His gaze, sharp and assessing, lifted the moment she stepped into view.
Their eyes met across the distance—a silent, electric exchange. For a heartbeat, Ava felt a flicker of something pass between them, like an intense flash of light, but then it was gone. Did I imagine that? she wondered, her heart skipping a beat.
She gathered herself quickly and, with quiet grace, approached the table. Spotting an empty seat at the farthest corner, she made her way there and sat down without meeting his gaze again.
Dominic's eyes narrowed, his irritation barely concealed. "I'm not going to eat you," he remarked dryly, his voice cutting through the quiet.
Ava's cheeks flushed faintly, but she lifted her chin and replied, "Do secretaries usually eat with their bosses?"
His brows rose, amusement sparking briefly in his cold gaze. "Let's just say it's customary to be present at dinner when you're living here. There's little room for saying no."
Ava bit her lip, her gaze flickering to the doorway. " Then Where is Mr. James? Isn't he joining us?" she asked, hoping for an out.
Dominic's mouth tightened slightly, a subtle sign of distaste. "James doesn't live here," he said curtly, his tone leaving no room for further questions.
So that was that. She had no choice but to remain. Silently, she resigned herself and settled into her seat.