Chapter 2 - The Interview That Changed Everything

The office smelled like luxury and power. Elina adjusted the secondhand blazer she borrowed from her roommate and stepped inside. Her eyes widened as she took in the glass walls, the golden inlays, the view of the skyline. It wasn't just an office-it was another world.

She needed this job. No, she had to get it.

For her brother.

"Elina Gilbert?" the assistant called.

"Yes," she whispered.

"You're up. The CEO wants to meet you personally."

Her heart skipped. Personally?

She stepped into the private office. The room was drenched in black and gold-just like the man sitting behind the desk.

Damon Salvatore.

His eyes were like obsidian, dark and unreadable. He wore his power like a second skin-tailored suit, gold cufflinks, the devil's smirk.

He didn't even look up at first. Then he did.

And something shifted.

Elina felt it-heat. Something wicked and unspoken.

"Sit," he said.

She sat.

He watched her like a predator watching prey.

"You have no experience in finance. No high-end background. No connections. Why should I hire you?"

She clenched her hands on her lap. "Because I'll work twice as hard as anyone. I don't quit. I just... need a chance."

Silence.

Then Damon leaned back, steepling his fingers.

"Very well, Miss Gilbert. I'm willing to make an offer."

Her eyes lit up.

"But not for the position you applied for."

She blinked. "I... I don't understand?"

His voice dropped low. Smooth. Dangerous.

"You'll be my personal assistant. Twenty-four seven. My schedule, my demands... my rules. It's not a job. It's a contract."

He slid a file across the desk. One word stamped on it: Confidential.

Her fingers trembled as she reached for it.

"Read it. Think it over. Sign it... and you become mine."

Her breath caught.

Elina stood on the edge of something she didn't understand. Something dark. Seductive.

And she couldn't look away.