I scoffed internally, a smirk of disbelief tugging at my lips as I wondered what had given him the audacity to think I would engage in such scandalous behavior between us.
Even without his condescending warning, I had already resolved to avoid any confrontation with him. I needed this job, not only for the lucrative pay but also because it meant I'd get to see Julian. Even if Roman happened to walk by on my left, I would take the right path without a second thought, I mused as I stepped out of the shimmering silver ring.
My gaze fell upon Leah, who was resting her cheek atop her folded hands, gazing at the bustling cafeteria scene. A frown creased my brow as I crossed my arms, my frustration bubbling over. "He's so prideful," I muttered under my breath, a note of irritation weaving through my words.
Leah looked up, a playful smile breaking across her face. "Yeah, he is. But did the contract process go well?" she asked, her tone light and curious.
I nodded in her direction, my spirits lifting slightly. "It even exceeded my expectations. The pay was substantial, and I didn't hesitate to accept it—I really need it," I explained, my voice heavy with the weight of my circumstances. I settled into the empty seat beside her, my eyes meeting hers, reflecting both gratitude and a hint of lingering anxiety.
"Hmm," Leah hummed thoughtfully, her agreement comfortingly soft.
"Thank you, Leah, for finding this job for me," I said, reaching out to grasp her hand in a moment of affection, my fingers caressing it gently. In an instant, I remembered her aversion to such gestures as she quickly withdrew her hand, though this time, she didn't seem angry.
"Just make sure you're safe. Julian is a good guy, so I don't worry too much about him, but I can't say the same for his brother," she spoke in hushed tones, her eyes darting cautiously toward Roman as he strode out of the cafeteria, the scent of his cologne lingering in the air.
He had finished the recruitment process, a smirk likely plastered on his face, convinced of his own superiority as he brushed past me without a glance. I felt a surge of distaste.
I turned my gaze back to Leah, who was barely holding back a chuckle. "Just look at you glaring at him," she teased, her laughter light and infectious. "It'll be hilarious if you two end up married someday."
"Impossible," I shot back, my expression twisting into a scowl. The mere thought of him as my husband was utterly absurd; he radiated condescension that was impossible to overlook. Any love I could ever envision needed to be rooted in kindness and understanding, qualities he seemed desperately lacking. His demeanor dismissed any opportunity for mistakes, leaving no room for warmth. Who could ever find happiness with someone like him?
"I prefer someone who's kind and sweet, not cold and judgmental like him. He's so arrogant, so prideful…," I trailed off, my frown deepening as I thought of all the flaws that filled my mind. He had the looks and the wealth, but without a heart, he was utterly devoid of value.
"You seem to know so much about him," Leah teased again, a lightness in her voice. "You might as well get into a relationship."
"Leah," I cautioned, hoping to quell her laughter. Thankfully, she stopped, and I felt a wave of relief wash over me. It was then I decided to order a drink to help cool the heated emotions swirling within.
"Don't do anything that'll bring us a breath closer," the words echoed ominously in my mind, and suddenly my drink tasted bitter on my tongue. I hadn't imagined I'd ever given him the impression that I harbored any sort of affection. The thought of a potential relationship was absurd, and I simmered at the audacity of it. Soon enough, he'd have to know me as his brother's girlfriend, and perhaps then his arrogant demeanor would be put in check.
After classes that day, I returned to my dormitory, feeling lighter after sharing a few laughs with Leah at the cafeteria. Our friendship appeared to be blossoming, inching closer to the camaraderie I had longed for.
As I lay on my bed, resolve steeling me to dive into my notes and keep up with my studies, a sudden ding from my phone caught my attention. I narrowed my eyes at the device, contemplating whether to answer it. I picked up my phone, the screen illuminating the dim room—a message awaited in my direct messages.
"Come to this address to begin work at 4:30 pm on Monday as soon as possible."
My brows knitted together in confusion, wondering which of the brothers had sent it. I noticed a picture nestled at the top of the message and tapped on it. Upon closer inspection, I realized it was a photo of Roman, reclining on his bed, a pristine white sheet beneath him. A little girl lay beside him, her face turned upside down, yet the moment radiated warmth as a hint of a smile graced his lips. I zoomed in involuntarily, staring at him, feeling a strange tug in my chest.
"What the hell," I muttered under my breath, a mix of disbelief and irritation swirling within me. Without a second thought, I turned off my phone and tossed it carelessly into the cupboard, not caring if it broke.
On Monday, following my last class, I found myself making my way toward the address listed in the message. I hailed a cab, my heart pounding with uncertainty as the scenery shifted around me. The place felt alarmingly isolated compared to the lively campus I had just left behind.
Despite the swirling doubts in my mind, I resolved to push forward with my journey. I told myself that even if I lost my way, I would always find a path back. I carefully noted the winding streets and turns the cab driver took, hoping to engrain the route in my memory.
After what felt like an eternity, the cab came to a halt in front of a towering hill, its silhouette dark against the golden sky. "Is this it?" I inquired, stepping closer to the driver, whose curt nod confirmed my suspicion.
"Okay, thank you," I said, sliding out of the vehicle and watching as it rolled away, leaving me in the solitude of this unfamiliar landscape. The air was filled with the melodic chirping of birds and the soft rustling of branches dancing in the gentle breeze. As I stood there, a grand house came into view, rising impressively among the underbrush. With each step I took towards it, my breath caught in my throat; the house was far larger than anything I'd ever encountered, a majestic spectacle that sent waves of uncertainty crashing over me. Was this truly where I would be working?
Having signed up for this job, was I destined for something beyond my grasp?
As I approached, the address emblazoned on the wall confirmed this was my destination. The anxiety coiling in my stomach tightened as I stood before the ornate double doors, their craftsmanship intricate and alluring. I reached for the doorbell, pressing it firmly and standing back, heart racing as I waited for someone to answer.
The silence was palpable until, with an eerie creak, the door swung open just a crack, casting a stark slice of light into the dusky space behind it. A shiver ran down my spine as I hesitated, the notion of retreat whispering in my ear. Everything felt ominous, reminiscent of my interactions with Roman. Was there any realm of safety in his chaotic world?
Deciding against turning back, I quickly texted Roman—not Julian, of course, as that would shatter my cover as his secret admirer.
"Is anyone home?" I typed hurriedly.
"Her room is right after the staircase. She's in," he replied tersely.
Encouraged yet anxious, I nudged the door open more fully, stepping into the opulent interior that lay beyond.
As I descended the staircase, the lights flickered to life with each step, illuminating the lavish decor that surrounded me. The house was a marvel—grand and elegant, adorned with ornate furnishings and artwork that caught my eye at every turn. The grand staircase towered above me, guiding me as the lights blazed, revealing the splendor of my new surroundings.
Finally, I reached the first door and knocked softly, my heartbeat echoing in my ears. The air felt thick with anticipation and trepidation as I stood there, unanswered. Taking a deep breath, I grasped the handle and pushed the door open, peering in cautiously. The room was a sight to behold—bathed in soft pink hues, it radiated luxury and comfort.
A plush bed rested against one wall, and a small staircase spiraled gently toward an exquisite pool, its water shimmering invitingly as it overflowed. My eyes widened in horror as I noticed a tiny finger slip perilously off the edge of the pool.
On the first day of work!?
"Wait, no!" My thoughts raced as I dropped my bag and dashed into the room, racing towards the pool with an urgency that surged through me.