Chapter 15

Maria let out a long sigh, her shoulders slumping. "Do you know what it feels like, Kaleb? It feels like the universe conspired to throw every challenge my way today."

"Well, you know what they say, when life gives you lemons, make a fancy lemonade cocktail and kick back," Kaleb jokes, trying to lighten the mood.

Maria chuckled, a hint of amusement breaking through her weariness. "I like the way you think, Kaleb. I may add 'mixologist' to your job description.

Kaleb grinned, playing along. "Hey, I've got some serious skills in shaking up those fruity concoctions. Just say the word, and I'll have a refreshing drink ready for you soon."

"You might be onto something there," Maria mused, a glimmer of playfulness returning to her eyes. " Me having you work at my bar over there could solve all my work-related troubles."

Kaleb raised an eyebrow, pretending to be serious. "I'll need a fancy bartender outfit and a code name. How about 'Mix Master K'?"

Maria burst into laughter, the tension slowly melting away. "Mix Master K it is! But only if you promise to make those little umbrellas and garnishes for every drink."

"You've got it," Kaleb replied with a mock salute. "Consider it my secret weapon against workplace stress."

As their laughter filled the room, the day's weight seemed to lift just a little. Kaleb knew that sometimes a lighthearted moment could be the best remedy for a demanding workday. At that moment, he was determined to bring a smile to Maria's face, one cocktail umbrella at a time.

"So, tell me, Maria," Kaleb said, leaning forward. "If you were a cocktail, what kind of drink would you be?"

Maria pondered the question, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "Hmm, let's see. I mix boldness and elegance with a splash of unexpected surprises. How about a 'Mystic Sunrise'? It's an irresistible blend of passion fruit, sparkling champagne, and a hint of mystery."

Kaleb raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Sounds intriguing! And what's the secret ingredient that adds that touch of mystery?"

Maria winked playfully. "Ah, that's a trade secret, Mix Master K. If I told you, it wouldn't be a mystery anymore, would it?"

They both burst into laughter again, the day's tension fading further into the background. Moments like this reminded them of the camaraderie they shared, even amidst the challenges of their work.

As the evening continued, Maria's face looked serious. The dimly lit room seemed to amplify the tension as she gazed down at the floor, refusing to make direct eye contact. The silence hung heavy in the air, pregnant with expectation.

Finally, Maria broke the silence, her voice calm and measured. "You said you would do anything, and well, I can guarantee your job is safe," she stated, her words carrying an undertone of authority and menace. A cold glint appeared in her eyes as she peered up at Kaleb, her expression calculating.

Kaleb's curiosity was piqued, and he sat upright, leaning in slightly. "That's awesome! What do you want me to do?" he asked, his voice laced with anticipation and apprehension.

The room became uneasy as Maria slowly revealed her true intentions. With a calculated motion, she opened her coat, exposing that she wore nothing underneath. "I want you to pleasure me until the break of dawn," she declared, her voice laced with a mixture of desire and domination.

Kaleb's jaw dropped in shock. His loyalty to Jen and their relationship instantly overrode any sense of temptation. He stood up abruptly from his chair, his fury evident. "What?! No! I could never betray Jen. You're sick."

Maria's gaze remained unyielding, her cold stare piercing Kaleb's resolve. "You think you have a choice? You asked me for a favor, and this is the price. I own you now. For the rest of your life," she stated with an air of finality, leaving no room for negotiation.

Kaleb's eyes narrowed, Burning with defiance, his fists clenched at his sides. "To hell with that! I'll find another job. I'm out of here," he declared, his voice tinged with determination.

Before Kaleb could approach the door, Maria raised her hand and snapped fingers. The heavy oak door swung open instantly, revealing two burly guards, their weapons drawn and gleaming ominously under the dim lights. The room was suddenly filled with an oppressive silence as the guards positioned themselves in the doorway, blocking any chance of escape.

"Like I said, pleasure me, and you keep your job and your happy little life with Jen," Maria asserted, her voice dripping with a sinister edge. "Seems like a fair trade, doesn't it?"

A mixture of fear and resignation washed over Kaleb as he realized the gravity of the situation. He was trapped, caught in a web spun by Maria's manipulation. Panic surged through his veins as he desperately scanned the room, searching for any sign of hope or a means of escape.

"What happens if I...kill myself?" Kaleb's voice wavered, his will to fight slowly fading away as a sense of hopelessness settled upon him.

Maria's response was chillingly matter-of-fact, her voice devoid of empathy. "Jen will take your place. I am not going to waste my reputation and get nothing in return. You wanted a way out, and here it is. But if not, I might give her over to the guards. They could use a new plaything," she stated, a sinister smile playing at the corners of her lips. The guards chuckled darkly, relishing their power over Kaleb's fate.

Defeated, Kaleb felt a heavy weight settle upon his shoulders. His mind raced, grappling with the impossible choices before him. The thought of losing Jen and subjecting her to this twisted world was unbearable. With a heavy sigh, his voice barely above a whisper, he relented, "Fine. I'll do it. Just...don't hurt Jen."

A twisted smile played across Maria's lips as a sense of power and dominance crept into her eyes. She reveled in her victory, knowing she had broken Kaleb's spirit. "Very well," she commanded, her voice dripping with sadistic satisfaction. "Come here and fulfill your role. Pleasure me orally," she ordered, her voice leaving no room for argument. The room was engulfed in a suffocating darkness as Kaleb reluctantly stepped forward, resigned to his fate.