Lucas Reed remained uncertain about the circumstances that had led him to this place.
If anyone had questioned him that morning about his agenda, he would have replied: work, possibly dinner, perhaps helping Stella with a task, and then rest—nothing beyond that. Certainly, nothing that involved the CEO of the company extending an invitation to her home under the pretense of a "beginning boss bonding assignment."
Yet here he was.
Positioned in front of a contemporary house concealed behind high iron gates, he gazed at a doorbell that likely exceeded his monthly rent in value.
'This is typical,' Lucas reassured himself. 'Completely typical. Every workplace goes through this. Most likely.'
He pushed the button.
A gentle bell rang from within.
For a moment, the door swung open.
Victoria Hale stood there, dressed more informally than he had ever seen her. No tailored suit. No stilettos. She wore a snug sweater and relaxed trousers, her hair flowing freely in gentle waves around her shoulders, framing her face in a way that seemed almost unfair.
For a moment, Lucas lost track of how to breathe.
"Evening, Lucas," she greeted, beaming kindly. "You arrived exactly as expected."
"Yes," Lucas replied, inclining his head a bit in alarm. "Thank you for having me."
She chuckled softly. "You're charming when you're anxious. Please step inside."
The door shut behind him with a click that sounded much louder than expected.
The interior of the house was spotless yet cozy, filled with gentle illumination and pristine furnishings. A subtle aroma blended floral notes with wine, making it feel less like a CEO's residence and more like a meticulously designed trap.
'Wow,' he reflected. 'Affluent individuals have quite a lifestyle.'
"Settle in," Victoria said while moving in front of him. "This task is designed to be informal. Don't feel any stress."
'That statement is achieving the reverse of its purpose,' he thought.
They sat at a wooden desk in what seemed to be her study. Documents were tidily piled on one end, a laptop lay closed, and two wine glasses were already placed.
She poured drinks for both of them.
Lucas paused. "I typically don't consume alcohol."
"That's alright," she replied calmly. "Just a bit, to help you unwind."
He acknowledged her with a nod and took the glass.
The discussion started steadily: job topics, professional ambitions, and his adjustment within the company. Victoria listened, her gaze fixed on him in a way that made him feel noticed, appreciated.
Too valued.
"You're talented, Lucas," she remarked, gently placing her chin on her hand. "I've been observing you."
His heart skipped a beat. 'That wording could have been better.'
"I mean," she said serenely, "your execution, your demeanor, your capability."
"Oh," he replied, feeling relieved. "Thanks."
They conversed for more than an hour. Lucas gradually relaxed. The wine eased his shoulders, and his speech became more fluid. Victoria chuckled at his humor, praised his sincerity, and inquired about his family.
When Stella was mentioned, Victoria's gaze softened.
"Look after her," Victoria said. "That's commendable."
Lucas grinned. "She's everything to me."
A shadow briefly crossed Victoria's face, disappearing as quickly as it had come.
"Yes," she whispered. "Family matters."
Before Lucas noticed, the first glass was empty, and the second one was already placed in front of him.
By the time he reached the third, his head grew heavy.
'This isn't good,' he thought. 'I'm starting to feel drowsy.'
His arms lay on the desk, unnoticed. His chin dropped next. The room felt cozy. Secure.
Too safe.
Lucas allowed his breathing to calm. He shut his eyes.
Victoria watched him closely.
He remained still.
His breathing steadied, and his thoughts remained sharp.
'Sleeping here isn't right,' he pondered. 'What if something happens?'
Time elapsed.
Victoria rose to her feet and approached him gradually and cautiously.
Before he sensed her touch, Lucas became aware of her presence.
Her fingers lightly brushed his hair.
She leaned closer.
Lucas's pulse raced.
Her lips gently touched his cheek, then moved closer, trailing down to his neck. Warm. Lingering.
She kissed him more passionately.
Then, gradually, she ran her tongue along his skin.
Lucas nearly leapt.
'OH, GOD.'
He compelled himself to remain motionless.
THIS IS UNUSUAL. THIS CERTAINLY IS NOT A BONDING TASK.'
Victoria's breath was unsteady.
"I can't hold back any longer," she murmured. "You belong to me."
Her grip on his shoulder grew firmer.
For a moment, the narrator remained quiet due to astonishment.
After a pause, she withdrew, panting heavily, and leaned her head softly against his arm, fatigue washing over her.
Lucas stood still.
Five seconds.
Ten.
Her respiration decelerated.
She drifted off to sleep.
'…She dozed off while I was here with her.'
Lucas opened one eye slightly.
Victoria Hale, CEO of the company, had her head resting in his lap like a delicate cat.
'This is the most peculiar situation I have ever encountered.'
His cheeks flushed with heat.
'Her hair smells really good.'
'NO. BAD THOUGHTS.'
With caution and deliberate pace, Lucas extended his hand towards the pillow. His actions were exactly resembling the process of defusing a device.
He tucked the pillow beneath her head, gradually moving backward bit by bit until the pressure changed.
Victoria moved slightly.
Lucas stood still.
She whispered a phrase and clutched the pillow more firmly.
He quietly departed.
Silent, like a spirit, Lucas took his jacket. Moved towards the door.
'Stella is waiting for dinner,' he mused. 'I'm not going to die today.'
He walked out into the nighttime breeze, jolting him back to awareness.
In the home, behind him, Victoria Hale rested calmly.
And smiled.