Chapter 14: An Unexpected Visitor
Mia stepped into the office, greeted by the familiar sight of Kaiden's desk and the soft hum of the computer. She had arrived earlier than usual, hoping to get a head start on her work.
As she approached her desk, her eyes landed on a figure seated in the waiting area. He was a man with chiseled features, piercing blue eyes, and a strong jawline. His dark hair was perfectly styled, and his tailored suit accentuated his broad shoulders.
Mia's eyes widened as she took in the stranger's stunning appearance. She felt a flutter in her chest, and her mind went blank. Who was this gorgeous man, and what was he doing in Kaiden's office?
The stranger's eyes met hers, and he flashed a charming smile. Mia's cheeks flushed, and she quickly looked away, trying to compose herself.
"Good morning," the stranger said, his deep voice sending a shiver down Mia's spine.
Mia nodded, still feeling a bit dazed. "Good morning," she replied, trying to sound calm.
The stranger stood up, his movements gentle and graceful. "I'm waiting for Kaiden," he said, his eyes never leaving Mia's face.
Mia's curiosity got the better of her. "Are you a client?" she asked, trying to sound professional.
The stranger chuckled. "No, I'm family," he said, his eyes glinting with amusement.
Just then, Kaiden burst into the office, looking surprised and a bit annoyed. "Ryker! What are you doing here?" he exclaimed.
Ryker, the stranger, smiled lazily. "Just thought I'd drop by and say hello, cousin," he said, his voice dripping with sarcasm.
Kaiden's expression turned guarded. "What do you want, Ryker?" he asked, his tone wary.
Ryker shrugged. "Just thought I'd check in and see how things are going. I've been away for a while, and I missed the familiar sights and sounds of Asharia."
Kaiden raised an eyebrow. "And what about your business empire? I thought you were too busy to bother with us."
Ryker smiled again. "I've delegated tasks to my trusted employees. Besides, I have some...personal matters to attend to."
As they spoke, Mia couldn't help but notice the tension between Kaiden and Ryker. It was palpable, like a living, breathing entity.
Just then, Ryker's gaze flicked to Mia, and he raised an eyebrow at Kaiden. "And who might this lovely creature be?" he asked, his voice dripping with curiosity.
Kaiden's expression darkened. "Mia is my...assistant," he said, his tone possessive.
Ryker's eyes sparkled with amusement. "Ah, I see."
Kaiden's jealousy was evident, and Ryker seemed to be enjoying the reaction.
"Mia, please excuse us," Kaiden said, his voice low and even.
Mia nodded, gathering her things as she prepared to leave.
As she walked past Ryker, he stood up, his movements fluid and graceful. "Allow me," he said, holding the door open for Mia.
As she passed through the doorway, Ryker's hand brushed against hers, sending a spark of electricity through her body.
"I'll be back, dear," Ryker whispered, his breath caressing Mia's ear.
He touched her face, his fingers tracing the curve of her cheekbone. Then, he gently pushed the hair covering her side face backwards, his eyes locking onto hers.
Mia's heart skipped a beat as she felt a flutter in her chest. She couldn't help but wonder what Ryker's true intentions were.
With a sly smile, Ryker turned and walked back into the office, leaving Mia feeling both intrigued and intimidated.
As soon as Ryker left, Mia was summoned back to the office. She walked in, wondering what Kaiden wanted.
"Mia, I need to talk to you about Ryker," Kaiden said, his expression serious.
"What about him?" Mia asked, curiosity getting the better of her.
Kaiden leaned back in his chair, his eyes narrowing. "Ryker is not someone to be trusted. He's charming and charismatic, I know, but he has an ulterior motive for everything he does."
Mia raised an eyebrow. "What do you mean?"
Kaiden sighed. "Ryker has a reputation for being ruthless in business and in his personal life. He'll stop at nothing to get what he wants."
Mia felt a shiver run down her spine. "And what does he want?"
Kaiden's eyes locked onto hers. "I'm not entirely sure, but I think he seemed interested in you"
Mia's eyes widened. "Me? Why would he be interested in me?"
Kaiden's expression turned grim. "Because you're beautiful, intelligent, and innocent", he found himself saying with a gentle voice. Ryker feeds on innocence."
Mia felt a wave of unease wash over her. "I'll be careful," she promised.
Kaiden nodded. "See that you are. Now, it's late, and you should head home."
Mia nodded, gathering her things. As she walked out of the office, she couldn't shake off the feeling that Ryker was trouble.
As she walked home, she pulled out her phone and dialed Sarah's number.
"Hey, girl! What's up?" Sarah answered on the first ring.
"Hey! I need you to come over ASAP. I have so much gist for you," Mia said, excitement building up inside her.
Sarah squealed. "Ooh, spill the tea! I'm on my way!"
Mia laughed, feeling a sense of relief wash over her. She couldn't wait to share everything that had happened with Sarah.
As she walked into her apartment, she dropped her bag on the floor and flopped onto the couch, waiting for Sarah to arrive.