1 Chapter1: Unexpected Beginnings
Zara Smith stood in front of the tall glass structure, her pulse racing with a mix of excitement and worry. It was the famous Kings Corporation, one of New York's most well-known businesses. She had worked so hard for this chance, but instead of experiencing joy, a frustration knot tightened in her gut.
"Why couldn't it have been another company?" She mumbled under her breath while gazing at the entrance's boldly written corporate name.
She put aside her misconceptions, adjusted her shoulder bag, and took a deep breath. The company's lobby, which was sleek and contemporary, was humming with activity within. As Zara walked up to the counter, the welcoming receptionist gave her a warm grin.
"Welcome to Kings Corporation. Good morning," the receptionist said.
"How may I help you?" she asked
Zara forced a grin while clearing her throat.
"Hello, I'm Zara Smith, the newest employee. I've come here to see Mr. Kings."
The receptionist grinned more and looked at her computer.
"Yes, Miss Smith, I see. You are expected by Mr. Kings. His office is on the top floor, which you may reach by elevator," she said.
"Thank you sir," Zara said before walking towards the elevator.
As she entered the elevator, her nerves began to break once more. The elevator rose quickly, and before she knew it, the doors parted to show a gorgeous office space.
As Zara entered the office, she took in the luxurious decor, which included expensive mahogany furnishings, elegant wall art, and a broad view of the metropolitan skyline. A man was working diligently at a large desk, his fingers flitting across a tablet.
"Mr. Kings?" she called.
Zara's breath caught in her throat as the guy raised his head to gaze at her. Devon Kings, the mysterious millionaire CEO with the infamous playboy reputation, sat in front of her. He was the most beautiful man she had ever set her eyes on. His slick black hair, pink lips and gorgeously looking face was calling unto her but she shut her inner mind up by reminding herself about her hatred for playboys. She couldn't believe that the man in front of her was a womanizer.
Devon responded in a firm, authoritative voice,
"You have to be Miss Smith." Please find a seat."
Zara took a deep breath before approaching the desk and settling into the chair opposite from him.
Under his piercing stare, she suppressed the impulse to flinch by telling herself that she was there to do something: work.
Devon's lips curved into a slender smile,
"Welcome to Kings Corporation. I hope you're prepared to give your best," he said.
"Thank you, Mr. Kings. Yes I am; I'm excited to be a part of this company," she said.
Of course she was excited to be here because it was the biggest thriving company in New York but having to work closely with a Playboy was what she hated.
Devon's eyebrow slightly rose, in apparent interest at her remark.
"Miss Smith, your credentials are outstanding. My expectations for your success are very high," he said.
"I'm grateful, Mr. Kings. I can guarantee you that I'm determined to giving nothing but my all," Zara said, her resolve evident.
Zara found herself engrossed in the talk as it progressed into the specifics of her position and obligations. She couldn't help but admire Devon's commitment to his career because of his charm and business savvy, which were both evident.
She, though, was torn by internal strife. Devon Kings was the epitome of the kind of man she hated, a playboy who used his charm to control and destroy women. She couldn't deny this. The harm that these individuals could do was painfully brought to mind by her own family background.
Devon's hold was tight, yet there was a hint of inquiry in his gaze.
"It's my pleasure, Miss Smith. I really forward seeing your input."
"Thank you, Mr. Kings. When do I start?" Zara replied.
"Tomorrow; you can use the rest of today to fully prepare for your first day tomorrow," Devon answered.
"Okay sir," Zara said getting up from her seat.
Devon also got up from his seat, extending his hand out for a shake which Zara reluctantly took. The handshake lasted longer than it should. She felt a rush from her hand to her heart which she quickly ignored. Zara forcefully withdrew her hand from his, noticing that her boss to be was trying to work his charms on her. "Not a chance, Devon," she thought to herself, letting a small smirk appear on his face.
"I'll see you tomorrow then sir," Zara said, grabbing her bag and making her way out of Devon's office.
Zara's head was filled with of contradictory feelings as she walked away from Devon's office. She couldn't deny the unmistakable attraction between them, but she was determined not to yield to a playboy's enticements. Her prior experiences had taught her to be cautious, and she stayed steady in her resolve to focus solely on her profession.
Zara had no idea Devon was not one to take loss easily. Meanwhile, Devon couldn't take his eyes off Zara as she walked out of the office. Unlike other girls who had come to his office in search of job, she kept things strictly professional. She didn't try to seduce him like other girls had done but Devon couldn't believe that she'd be like that forever.
"I'll also have a taste of her as well," he said, licking his lips as she walked away.
Days became weeks, and Devon found himself carefully looking for occasions to reach out to Zara. He couldn't deny his attraction to her, whether it came from conversations about business or random meetings in the office hallways. It was a challenge that sparked a desire in him to get beyond her walls and uncover the person she was below her polished front.
One evening as the workplace started to close, Zara discovered herself alone herself in the break room making a cup of coffee. Suddenly, Zara felt a presence in the room.
