Page 9 of The Billionaire's Obsession

"What exactly would this job entail?" I ask, finally releasing my death grip on the doorknob but still maintaining my distance.

"Standard executive assistant duties. Managing my schedule, coordinating travel arrangements, handling sensitive correspondence, attending meetings with me." He paces slowly across my small living space. "The position requires absolute confidentiality and availability. You would be on call twenty-four seven."

"And the compensation?"

"Two hundred thousand per annum, plus benefits. A company car. A housing allowance—or, if you prefer, a company apartment near headquarters." He says this as casually as someone might discuss the weather. "And of course, your student loan debt is already taken care of."

The amount staggers me. It's more money than I ever imagined making right out of school—more than most people with decades of experience make.

"Why me?" I ask, the most important question. "There must be thousands of qualified candidates who'd kill for this position."

Damon takes a step toward me, and it takes everything I have not to step back.

"Why not you?" His eyes hold mine. "Your thesis on ethical leadership in modern business environments was particularly illuminating."

My body goes warm all over. He's read my thesis?

"That still doesn't explain your interest." I cross my arms, trying to reclaim some sense of control.

"Let's just say I see potential in you that others might miss." He reaches into his suit jacket and pulls out a sleek leather portfolio. "All the details are in this contract. Review it tonight. We can discuss any questions tomorrow morning."

I don't reach for it. "And if I decline?"

His expression doesn't change, but something in the air between us shifts, grows colder.

"The debt is a gift, regardless of your decision." His tone makes it clear he doesn't expect me to decline. "Though I would consider it...unwise to reject such an opportunity."

The threat is subtle but unmistakable. Not that he'll demand the money back, but that crossing Damon Blackwell comes with consequences.

"I already have a job. And I'm still in school," I point out.

"Your schedule at Blackwell Industries would accommodate your classes. As for your current employment—" He glances around my shabby apartment with eloquent dismissal. "I think we both know this is a significant upgrade."

He's right, of course. Slinging coffee for minimum wage plus meager tips can't compare to what he's offering. With that kind of money, I could help my mom, build savings, have security for the first time in my life.

But nothing about this feels right. Normal employers don't stalk potential employees or pay their debts or show up at their apartments unannounced.

"May I?" I hold out my hand for the contract, and he places it in my palm. Our fingers brush briefly, and I feel a jolt—static from the dry air, but it startles me nonetheless.

The portfolio is heavy, expensive leather. I open it to find at least twenty pages of legal text, dense with clauses and conditions.

"This seems extensive for an assistant position," I observe.

"The role requires access to sensitive information. The legal protections are necessary." He checks his watch—platinum, I'm guessing, or white gold. "I have a dinner engagement. Review the contract. My driver will collect you at eight tomorrow morning to bring you to my office for your decision."

Not asking if that time works for me. Not asking if I have class. Just informing me of what will happen.

"I haven't agreed to anything yet," I remind him.

His smile is patient, almost pitying. "But you will."

The certainty in his voice sends another chill through me. Because he's right. In what universe would someone in my position turn down this opportunity? I'd be an idiot to reject it, no matter how strange the circumstances.

"Fine. Eight o'clock." I clutch the portfolio to my chest like a shield.

Damon nods, satisfied, and moves toward the door. I step aside to let him pass, but he pauses beside me, close enough that I can feel the heat from his body.

"One more thing, Lucy." His voice is softer now, almost intimate. "I value loyalty above all else. Once you're mine, I expect complete dedication."

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