I clutched my portfolio tighter as the elevator climbed to the 25th floor. My heart beat a little too fast—not from nerves, but from something electric humming in my veins. This job was my shot. A dream role in one of the city’s most prestigious marketing firms. And after months of rejections, I finally got a yes.
The elevator dinged, and I stepped out into a sleek corridor bathed in warm gold tones and minimalist luxury. Everything screamed power and class.
I didn’t realize then that the man behind it all—the CEO himself—would be someone I thought I’d never see again.
“Miss Evans?” A sharply dressed assistant smiled, rising from her desk. “You’re early. Mr. Carter will be with you shortly. Would you like some coffee?”
I nodded, trying to keep my hands from shaking. “Yes, please. Black
