Gym The clanking of weights resonated through the gym, mixing with the rhythmic thuds of punching bags and occasional bursts of chatter. Theo Stavros was mid-set, the barbell in his hands glinting under the fluorescent lights as he completed his reps with ease. His fitted workout shirt clung to his torso, emphasizing his athletic build, while a faint sheen of sweat glistened on his skin. Across from him, Devon Liangster struggled with squats, his face a mix of determination and mild regret. “Why do I even bother coming here with you?” Devon grumbled, his knees wobbling slightly as he completed another squat. “You said you wanted to stay fit for the ‘next era,’” Theo teased, placing the barbell down effortlessly. “Well, someone’s got to keep up with Mr. Immortal,” Devon shot back, catching his breath and shaking his head. “But seriously, are you even human at this point?” Theo grabbed a towel and began wiping his face. “Funny you should ask,” he muttered, his tone shifting to som

“Please, sit down, Miss Grayson. So, it’s nice meeting you again,” Theo said, leaning back in his chair with a teasing smile. His tone was smooth, but there was an unmistakable glint of mischief in his eyes. Zhariah, however, didn’t take the bait. She crossed her arms, her posture stiff, and adjusted her oversized glasses, the kind that screamed, “Don’t mess with me.” “Don’t start with that,” she snapped. “Just tell me where my mom’s office is.” Theo chuckled, a low, sweet laugh that almost felt genuine. “Okay, fine. Don’t be in such a hurry, Miss Grayson. And I do hope you’ll enjoy your new job here. Really.” His tone shifted to something almost serious—almost. “You may go outside and ask one of the staff to show you to your office. That’s it.” Without another word, Zhariah turned on her heel and marched out, her back straight and her eyes glaring ahead. Theo watched her leave, a smirk tugging at his lips. --- Outside the office, Devon was waiting. He leaned casually again

The sun peeked through the sheer curtains of the penthouse, casting soft golden light across the room. Zaya stirred in her sleep, rolling over and pulling the blanket tighter around her. For once, the early morning rush didn’t haunt her—no loud alarm, no mom shouting for her to wake up and help prepare breakfast.It wasn’t until the faint sound of knocking echoed in her dreams that she blinked her eyes open, momentarily confused.She sat up groggily, taking in her surroundings. The modern room with sleek furniture reminded her of where she was. “Oh, right… not my house,” she muttered, grimacing as the memories of the agreement with her mom and Theo Stavros came flooding back.She glanced at the bedside clock. “8:30 AM? Oh, damn! I’m late!” Zaya bolted out of bed, scrambling to grab her glasses from the nightstand.The knocking stopped abruptly, replaced by the faint sound of retreating footsteps outside her door.---Outside, Theo leaned against the wall next to her door, arms crossed

Midnight Encounters The penthouse was silent, bathed in the soft glow of moonlight streaming through its large windows. It was 3 a.m., and Theo was half-asleep, sprawled comfortably on his oversized bed. As usual, he slept shirtless, with only a pair of boxers, enjoying the coolness of the sheets and the quiet night. But the peace didn’t last. Blag! Blang! Tap, tap, tap! Theo’s eyes snapped open, his instincts immediately kicking in. He sat up, pulling the blanket off his body. His sharp gaze scanned the room, his senses on high alert. Another sound followed—a faint metallic clatter, like something hitting the floor. “What the hell?” he muttered, running a hand through his messy hair. Quietly, Theo stood, his footsteps muffled on the carpet. He pushed the door open without turning on the lights, careful not to make any noise. As he peeked into the hallway, he pinpointed the source of the disturbance. The kitchen. He frowned and grabbed the nearest object—a frying pan from th

Zaya’s hands trembled as she clutched her phone, staring at the viral video circulating online. The title alone made her stomach churn: CEO’s Secret Love? Heated Argument in the Office! Every comment, every share, felt like an arrow aimed directly at her. “This can’t be happening,” she whispered, her breath quickening. Panic clawed at her chest, and she knew she had to leave before anyone confronted her about it. She stuffed her things into her bag haphazardly, grabbed her coat, and bolted for the elevator. “Who’s the witch that did this?!” she exclaimed under her breath, her voice laced with frustration. When the elevator doors slid open, she stepped inside, pressing the ground floor button repeatedly as if it would make the lift move faster. Just as the doors began to close, a firm hand shot through the gap, stopping them in their tracks. Zaya gasped, startled. Her heart raced as a tall man stepped inside. He was wearing a tailored gray suit that screamed success, and hi