Elina sat alone in the café across from Salvatore Enterprises, her fingers trembling as they clutched the contract. She'd read it a dozen times, and it still didn't feel real.
> "This agreement binds Elina Gilbert to serve as Mr. Damon Salvatore's personal assistant for a minimum term of six months. Duties may extend beyond traditional office roles. Confidentiality is absolute. Termination must be mutual..."
But it was the last clause that made her stomach flutter:
> "Clause 13: The assistant agrees to exclusive personal availability-day or night-as determined by the CEO's discretion."
Her lips parted as she reread that one line.
What did he mean by that?
---
Back at the office, Damon leaned against the massive windows, watching her silhouette through the glass. A smirk touched his lips.
She'd show up.
He'd seen it in her eyes-that mix of fear and desire. She wanted to run... but she wanted to fall even more.
He lit a cigar, slow and smooth. "Let's see how far the rabbit's willing to go."
---
Elina returned just after sunset.
She walked into the office with slow steps and fire in her eyes. She didn't bother knocking-just opened the door and stepped inside.
He turned. Those dark eyes devoured her again, but this time, he didn't speak.
She walked to his desk and laid the contract down-signed.
"I accept your offer," she said, voice soft but steady.
Silence crackled.
He moved-swift and smooth-walking toward her, his tall figure towering over hers.
"You have no idea what you've just agreed to," Damon murmured, voice deep and sinful.
She swallowed. "Then tell me."
He took one step closer. So close she could feel his warmth, his scent-dark wood, spice, and power.
His hand reached up-not to touch, but to hover, near her jaw.
"I don't play fair, Elina. And I don't share. You'll learn that soon enough."
Her heart pounded, and yet, her body didn't move away.
She was trapped in a storm-and something inside her wanted to be wrecked by it.
---
🔥 End of Chapter 3