"Do you want to?" He whispered softly. His voice barely reached my ears. Then, his eyes carefully scanned my face, taking in every detail.

  A lump formed in my throat as I blinked quickly several times at his confusing words. “...sorry?” I stuttered slightly whilst trying my best to maintain eye contact.

  "Girlfriend," he whispered seductively. His gaze shifted between my eyes and lips, drawing closer. "Would you like to be my girlfriend?" His warm breath brushed against my skin, creating an intimate moment. As he awaited my response, his eyes delved into mine, seeking assurance.

  The question stirred a strange feeling in me. It caused my whole body to tingle with excitement. Butterflies fluttered wildly in my stomach, signaling the intensity of that moment.

  I bit my bottom lip, nervous. My mind struggled to form sentences. Imagining kissing my archenemy made my cheeks flush slightly.

  And yet, there he sat before me now. He gazed at me with those bewitching blue eyes. They were filled with nothing but honesty, as if I was all he could ever want.

  “Y… yeah.” I whispered almost breathlessly despite having no idea how it had come out. It just sounded like a simple agreement to me, and my entire body was buzzing with a mix of excitement and nerves.

  I hadn't felt this way about a guy in years, not since high school when I was smitten with Jake, the star quarterback. And now, here I was, having these intense feelings for someone who, of all people, was my competitor. It was like being on the same side of a tennis court, hitting back and forth, but instead of a ball, it was our intense stares and unspoken words.

  As I let the words fall from my lips, I didn't stop to analyze them. It was as if I had handed over the reins of my mind to him, and he was riding it like a pro. I was trapped in his gaze, unable to look away. It was both exhilarating and terrifying, like being on a rollercoaster that I couldn't get off.

  I couldn't decide if being under his spell was a blessing or a curse. On one hand, it felt amazing to let go of my inhibitions and simply be. On the other hand, it was unsettling to realize I had lost control. It was like trying to navigate a dark room without a flashlight – I was stumbling around, unsure of what lay ahead.

  The corners of his eyes crinkled lightly at my answer. A wide grin spread across his face, making the dark shadows under his eyes even deeper.

  "Perfect," he said. Then, his hands cupped my face. He kissed me deeply, silencing me. My brain shut down, and my body responded automatically to his touch.

  Chapter 6

  Present:

  Leo Woodrow suddenly reappeared in my life after a three-year absence. It was as baffling as a cryptic message in a bottle. It was as if he had vanished. Then, he came back without warning. He left me wondering what had brought him back.

  I couldn't help but think about our complex history. It's like trying to untangle a worn-out sweater. Our paths had crossed during a turbulent time in my life, and his presence had left an indelible mark. Yet, despite three years passing, the memories of our past linger. They refuse to be erased like a stubborn stain on a favorite shirt.

  I never thought I would see those icy blue eyes again. It felt impossible after our painful breakup. I thought we had said our final goodbyes and moved on from each other.

  Nonetheless, there he was seated among the panelists. He looked effortlessly good for the occasion in his well-tailored suit.

  His face had matured a bit since the last time I saw him. It had become even more deliciously attractive. His golden curls framed his perfect features well. They highlighted the strong lines of his forehead and his high cheekbones. It made me realize just how much better looking he had become in those three years.

  I couldn't tear my eyes away from him - it was strange, but undeniable. Every attempt to rationalize my fascination failed; his presence captivated me. Clearly, I wasn't the only one under his spell, and it showed.

  The sound of someone else speaking suddenly pulled my attention away. It pulled me away from the gorgeous man who sat across from me. “Number 98?” The voice called again. It brought my attention back to the other board members. Their eyes were now focused on me.

  "Please introduce yourself," another man said. He was sitting next to Leo. He gave me an encouraging smile. I gave a hesitant nod.

  As soon as I started to speak, a tall figure at the back of the room raised their arm high in the air, commanding everyone's attention with a single gesture. The sudden silence that followed was so profound that even the faintest whisper could be heard, amplifying the tension in the room.

  I found my gaze returning to the blonde. He was now standing from his seat and approaching me. Everyone in the boardroom turned to stare at Leo. They all had curiosity written all over their faces.

  He stopped just a foot or two in front of me. He did this to get a good view of the gorgeous brunette standing in front of him. Then, he offered me the familiar warmth of his body heat.

  "This will be a personal interview," he said. His deep voice boomed with utter authority. I felt as if he could easily rule the world. His scary aura and familiar, smooth voice made my knees buckle. I tried to meet his stare.

  At that moment, I was certain that the man standing before me remembered who I was. If looks could kill, he'd be dead a dozen times over. All I wanted to do was turn around and run the other way. This wasn't how I imagined the beginning of my career at SoundEase, and my heart raced as I struggled to find my voice.

  “Now, introduce yourself.” His arms crossed over his chest in an unamused fashion as he waited for my answer. I couldn't believe his audacity. He demanded a specific introduction in front of this entire group. I hoped they would soon be my bosses.

  He was Leo, and nothing could make me forget that. No matter how much distance there was between us, it didn’t change anything. I was just a foolish teenager who had gotten herself tangled up in something that wasn't meant to be. Being with Leo made me happy. So, working in a similar environment with him wouldn't help me.

  So, I didn't comply with his request and trade my peace of mind for cash. I chose to quit working at SoundEase, for my own good.

  I gave out a silent sigh before pointing my chin confidently to Leo. My stomach felt like it had dropped to the bottom of my shoes at the thought of seeing him again. “I’m sorry, I lost my way finding the restroom,” I said.

  The words slipped out of my mouth reflexively. With that, I lowered my head in an apologetic bow to the table. I knew I probably looked ridiculous doing so. I was surrounded by strangers with cameras pointed straight at me.

  I kept my head low, avoiding a particular pair of blue eyes that felt like they were boring into my soul. With quick steps, I backed away until my whole body turned around and I ran out of the room.

  The second my shoes were outside the hall, I felt a tight grip on my wrist. It caused me to stop and turn sharply to confront the person who grabbed me.

  It was unsurprisingly Leo.

  I couldn't hide the surprise written all over my face nor my slightly flushed cheeks. The sudden contact between us sent tingles through my skin. They sent shivers through my body.

  I couldn't explain how his sudden appearance made me lose all the composure. I'd built it up over the past three years. It shattered immediately. Overwhelming emotions replaced it when I saw the same guy who broke my heart as if it meant nothing.

  "Cassandra Evans," the blonde man spoke. His gaze was intense as he stared down at me, his grip on my wrist tightening. "Is that you?" His eyes narrowed, as if he were searching for something hidden within his soul.

  Before replying, I quickly pulled my hand away from his grip, not really wanting to talk to him. "You finally got the name right," I grumbled, not in the friendliest way. But then, his big smile almost made me feel like I had been kinder.

  Leo took a step closer to me. His hand reached out again, as if he wanted to shake mine. I could only stare blankly at his face. "It's been three or four years. You've changed," he said with a smirk. Then, he took another step towards me, amused.

  "Three," I replied flatly. I took another step backward and refused to let him get close. I avoided his probing gaze. Three years ago, you broke my heart. I added mentally, although I wasn't willing to confess any of those feelings out loud.

  My brown eyes danced quickly across his attire, sucking in his polished appearance. "You don't look like the Leo I used to know," I told him. "You don't look quite like yourself," I said. I wasn't sure if that was meant to be a compliment.

  He gave me a playful look, seemingly unaffected by what I had said and moved further forward towards me. "Oh, yeah?" he retorted. "Did you come all this way to check me out?”

  My nose scrunched up without me even thinking about it. I could feel his cocky attitude again. It brought back memories I'd rather leave. It felt like going back to a place I wanted to erase from my mind.

  "You wish," I answered with a shake of my head, then cleared my throat. "But I guess you can consider this your lucky day for this meeting to have happened. Now, if you'll excuse me..." I started walking toward the exit. But, my steps froze midway when two words from him reached my ears.

  “Second-best?” his voice boomed through the room. “You're really here just for the restroom, huh?” He added with a tone that made it impossible for others not to hear. It carried the obvious implication in his question.

  I could feel my heart pounding against my chest as I turned slowly to glare back at him again. “Yes.” I gritted my teeth. “I'm here just for the restroom. Is that what you wanted to hear?”

  Leo's face lit up with a big smile when I answered. "So, why's that hanging on your neck?" he asked, pointing to my ID badge. "That can't be a coincidence," he said, moving closer until he was standing right in front of me.

  "Whatever I came here for is none of your business," I responded, my tone dripping with annoyance. He might seem harmless and charming. But, I knew better than anyone that a sharp dagger was hidden inside the blonde. He was always ready to stab me if he got the chance.

  "Oh, come now," he began with a smirk playing on his lips. "You're here to secure a job, aren't you?"

  “Even if I was, I can't see any reason that should concern you, or can you?” I questioned, tilting my head to the side as my eyebrows rose upwards.

  He smiled again. Then, he reached forward with his arm and surprised me. He moved a strand of hair that had fallen onto my face. “Because I could give you a free ticket to grab whatever position you wish for. I believe in your intelligence that much, Miss Tutor.” His voice dropped into whispers, and I felt an odd sensation creep on the top of my spine as his breath tickled my ear.

  I stepped back, his intensity feeling like a burn. I needed a moment, not ready to repeat the past. "Many would appreciate your offer," I said, trying to sound calm. "Why not give it a try?"

  The rejection didn't go well with him. I could tell by the disappearance of his smirk and the visible contortion of his face. It made me wonder if my words really made him that unhappy.

  He glanced at me, trying to size me up. He found it interesting that I didn't fall for his trick. He peered at me closely, studying my face. Then, he leaned in and whispered something unexpected in my ear.

  His husky whisper of "See you on Monday" sent a shiver down my spine as his warm breath caressed my ear lobe. As he pulled away, his footsteps echoed through the silent air. Each step was deliberate and confident. He didn't linger. He didn't wait for my response. He just turned and walked away. He left me feeling stunned and uneasy.

  As I stood there, my head shook slightly when I saw the man I used to date back in college. Memories flooded my mind, bringing back moments of our time together. Each memory was a painful reminder that I still hadn't moved on from this man.

  Chapter 7

  There were many ways to worsen an already terrible day. But, none were as daunting as seeing my landlady by my doorstep. Her piercing gaze scrutinized me. This was the evening after a chance encounter with my ex-boyfriend. The meeting had left me feeling drained and vulnerable.

  I stood frozen. My landlady's presence seemed to make my emotional baggage feel heavier. It felt like a dark cloud hanging over my head, threatening to pour out unwelcome emotions.

  Her sharp features were pinched into a scowl. They seemed to embody the misery that had been my day. They were a constant reminder that some things were better left unspoken. “Mrs. Kiel...?” I said as I gripped my purse strap. “Good evening.”

  The woman glared back at me with cold, steely eyes. "I see you are back," I said, my voice stern, indicating that the old woman was definitely here for trouble. "I hope you haven't forgotten our conversation this morning."

  I nodded with a forced smile on my lips, “Of course, I remember, ma’am. And I promise you that--”

  “I came here to inform you I will not be giving you a week of grace anymore. A personal matter recently happened, and I'm afraid all I can offer you is three days now.” The woman cut me short. She looked straight into my eyes. The smile on the younger lady vanished without a trace.

  “Ma-ma’am?” I stuttered, shocked at the news being delivered to me so suddenly. My hands gripped the straps of my purse harder, trying hard to conceal my growing panic and fear. “Three days?” my eyes flickered with confusion as the corners of my lips tilted downwards into a small frown.

  "Yes, Miss Evans. Please pay up before then, or you will no longer have access to this apartment," Mrs. Kiel stated calmly. She held my chin high. It was as though I was in control of everything and everyone that happens in my presence. "With that issue cleared, have a good night."

  With that last sentence, I left my standing alone in the middle of the gloomy space. I felt a heaviness in the pit of my stomach.

  After the older woman walked away, I couldn’t help but cry. I was frustrated and tears threatened to spill. I knew well that I had no way to pay everything I owed the woman in three days.

  My weak legs aimed for the door, and I struggled to move into my home. The moment the door closed behind me, I fell back against it, covering my face with my palms as sobs wracked my body. “My life is so shitty...” I muttered between gasps of air.

  My thoughts drifted back to the events of the day. I was starting to doubt my stubborn attitude of not needing Leo's help would last for long.

  I didn't even want to start with the number of bills that were piling up in my unfortunate financial life. There was no other way to solve the problems. I had to use the first available means. That meant swallowing my pride and accepting the fact I really needed a job at SoundEase.

  My phone vibrating brought me out of my thoughts, the light screen shining in the dimly lit living room. I wiped the tears off my cheeks hastily, my vision still blurry, and my mind still a complete mess.

  I finally got a grip on the screaming phone, and it took me a few seconds to calm down. Then I answered Lisa's call - my best friend was on the line.

  “Please tell me you nailed the interview!” Lisa's voice rang cheerfully from the other side. My friend's energy was a strong constant compared to my own depressed state.

  "Lisa..." I groaned, pressing the phone a little harder to my ear. There was no need to pretend everything was fine. "Did you have everything all planned out?" I asked in a low voice, trying hard to keep my emotions from seeping through.

  Some seconds of silence came from the other side. I wasn't sure if my friend was too confused or surprised to have been caught to say a word.

  “What do you mean?” Lisa eventually replied, the tone of my voice making it obvious I had no idea what I was talking about.

  "Do you get what I'm saying?" I frowned, raising my eyebrows at how confused my friend looked. "You know, working for SoundEase...?" I asked, hoping my friend would finally get it.

  I heard my best friend let out a frustrated groan. "Well, no..." Lisa admitted once more.

  "Ugh, please stop speaking to me in riddles. I'm pretty sure something important did come up. So what’s up?"

  It became clear that fate had arranged my meeting with Leo. Not my innocent friend, who simply wanted the best for me.

  I sighed softly. I was determined to speak plainly and directly, no matter how hard it might be. "You wouldn't believe who I met today..." I began, "Leo..." I uttered his name slowly, not pausing as I stared down at my feet.

  There was another long pause. Then, Lisa exploded with a screech. It was loud enough to make me flinch. "Wait, wait, wait!! Did you just say your ex-boyfriend??? What was he doing here?? That Leo Woodrow?" My best friend bombarded me with questions as fast as the wind while pacing around.

  I nodded to herself. "Yeah, Leo." I bit the inside of my cheek. The bitter taste of defeat and regret invaded my mouth. I was remembering his warm touch and soft eyes. It seemed impossible, but he somehow managed to control me within the short amount of time they met again.

  "So how did this happen?" Lisa spoke after a few moments of silence. They were filled only with the sound of shuffling furniture.

  "He was part of the panelist... I think he works there.” I answered quietly, trying my hardest to stay calm. I was not going to allow my sadness to make me so emotional.

  “Wow...I had no idea,” Lisa said with slight admiration in my voice. “How did you two reconnect?" My best friend continued, asking curiously. “Don't tell me he asked you difficult questions on purpose.”

  A quick chuckle escaped my throat at the thought, because thinking about it reminded me that I failed to accomplish the real purpose of visiting SoundEase. "He didn't get a chance," I said dejectedly. "I couldn't get myself interviewed, Lisa..." My voice broke slightly on the last words, causing a knot to form in my stomach, and I knew how pathetic I sounded.

  Lisa hummed softly in reply. "Oh, Cass... are you okay, though?" The concern was evident in her voice, and it made me feel a bit better. At least I had a friend who cared about my well-being. "It seems like he's getting on your nerves again... you couldn’t imagine yourself seeing me every time, right?" I added playfully.

 

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