ALICE RILEYThe long, drawn-out meeting filled the conference room with formal discussions and a rigid sense of professionalism. At the center of it all was Vivian Scott, the epitome of a polished CEO—sharp, composed, and utterly engrossed in Alexis Segal's numbers and strategies. His focus remained unwavering, fixed entirely on Alexis, with barely a glance spared in my direction.I couldn't deny it. A small part of me—perhaps my ego, perhaps something more—had hoped for at least a flicker of recognition, a glance in my direction. But no, his piercing gaze never once met mine. He was all business today, his words measured, his tone calm but authoritative. His tailored navy suit, crisp white shirt, and the faintest hint of cologne only added to the power he exuded.As the conversation paused briefly for coffee, I heard Maria and Sofia whispering from their seats beside me.“Did you see him just now when he leaned back in his chair?” Maria muttered; her voice low but laced with exciteme
ALICE RILEYThe elevator ride to Vivian Scott’s penthouse was unnervingly smooth, but my nerves weren’t. As the numbers ticked up, I glanced at my reflection in the mirrored walls, ensuring that everything was perfect—my carefully chosen dress, soft waves framing my face, and the faint sheen of gloss on my lips. Tonight wasn’t about him; it was about proving to myself that I could handle him and walk away unscathed.The elevator doors opened with a soft chime, revealing a hallway with polished floors and minimalist decor. I stepped out, my heels clicking against the tiles as I approached the door. Before I could knock, it opened, and there he was—Vivian Scott.My breath caught for the briefest moment. Gone was the impeccably suited CEO. Instead, he stood there in a casual black sweater that hugged his broad chest and dark jeans that emphasized his lean frame. His hair was slightly tousled, as though he’d run his fingers through it while working, and a relaxed smile played on his lips.
ALICE RILEYThe soft hum of the city lights outside the penthouse was the only sound in the room, but it felt distant and insignificant compared to the tension that hung in the air between us. I still hadn’t caught my breath from the kiss, and Vivian’s gaze didn’t waver. His eyes were dark with unspoken desire."I'm hungry," he murmured, his voice a deep, gravelly whisper that sent a shiver cascading down my spine. "But not for food anymore."The way he said it, the raw intensity in his tone, made my pulse quicken. For a second, I felt caught, like prey under the predator’s gaze. I could feel the weight of his words settling over me, and though I didn’t respond verbally, the subtle hitch in my breath must have been enough for him to sense my agreement.Before I could process what was happening, he stepped closer, his strong arms scooping me effortlessly off the chair. I let out a startled gasp, but it was cut short as his lips found mine again, demanding and full of purpose.This kiss
ALICE RILEYI woke up in Vivian’s arms, his warmth seeping into my skin as his hand rested lightly against my back. My cheek was pressed against his chest, and the steady rhythm of his heartbeat filled the quiet room. For a moment, I let myself sink into the comfort of it, feeling safe. A feeling I hadn’t allowed myself to indulge in for a long time.It was disarming, almost dangerous, how right it felt. Vivian Scott was dangerous, not because of what he had done, but because of what he could do. If I let myself feel anything more, he would have the power to hurt me someday. And that wasn’t a risk I was willing to take.Carefully, I lifted my head, untangling myself from him. His chest rose and fell in a slow rhythm, but I could feel his awareness in the slight tension of his body. He was awake, just letting me move at my own pace.I sat up and reached for the clothes I’d discarded the night before, slipping into them like a shield. “I should go,” I said, my voice carefully even, thou
ALICE RILEYMonday mornings were supposed to bring new beginnings, but today I was hoping for something more—a fresh start that kept Vivian Scott firmly out of my orbit. With our manager, Susan Donovan, returning from her medical leave, I had every reason to believe my days of direct involvement with the Scott Group account were behind me.As I stepped into the office, a sense of determination steadied me. I had spent the weekend rehearsing my resolve, willing myself to let go of the memories of that night. Vivian Scott was a distraction I couldn’t afford.Maria and Sofia were already at their desks, their faces lighting up the moment they saw me.“Good morning!” Maria greeted; her smile as bright as the coffee in her hand.“Guess what?” Sofia leaned over her desk conspiratorially. “Ms. Donovan is back!”Relief washed over me, and I couldn’t help but smile. “That’s great news!”Maria nodded enthusiastically. “She’s in her office, already going through emails. Looks like she’s ready to
ALICE RILEY"This is important. All I need is just ten minutes of Mr. Scott. I'm sure he wouldn't want to cancel the appointment now, especially after I have made it here." I persuaded the receptionist to get me the meeting with the CEO of Scott Group, Mr. Vivian Scott, who had canceled the meeting at the last minute due to an emergency.Had I not been an intern at Lexis Consultants, the legal consultant firm of Scott Group, I would have created a scene for not honoring my time, I'm sure. But I had to keep my cool. My career was important to me. I was furious inside but managed to hide it behind my fake smile."I am going to check again, Miss Riley. Please be seated." She answered politely.I slowly inched towards the couch fixed in the middle of the room and sat comfortably, throwing my handbag and the file on the seat next to me. Not having anything else to do, I pulled my phone out of the handbag and started browsing through my emails.A few minutes into my waiting, I started losin
ALICE RILEYI was still in shock after realizing the man I saw a moment ago, the man in front of whom I acted dumb, was no one but Vivian Scott. When he walked into the conference room, now fully suited, I couldn't help from going numb. Who could have expected the young handsome hunk to be the CEO? Didn't I imagine a middle-aged man with wrinkled eyes and greyed hairs, in his place?Thank god for making him get a call; I wanted a moment to relax my thudding heart. How could I face him after that dumb incident? Of course, I hated to look stupid.Lost in thoughts, I returned to my senses only when I heard Mr. Scott again. "Yes, Miss Riley, how may I help you today?"Did Mr. Scott sound polite and humble? I wondered as his deep voice reverberated in the room. He must have finished that phone call positively. He looked relaxed as he walked elegantly inside the conference room, and I cursed my luck.Pulling myself together to face the situation was still a task, especially after the shocki
ALICE RILEY "You are intelligent, beautiful, and determined. Vivian Scott isn't an easy man. I'm impressed that you got the signatures on time." Alexis Segal, the head of Lexis Consultants, appreciated my work in front of the entire department. I was back in the office after that awkward but successful meeting with the CEO of Scott Group. Just two months into my internship, I had gained enough goodwill from Mr. Segal that he put me to assist in managing the company's key accounts. Alexis Segal wasn't a total badass. He only acted as one when his crucial clients weren't handled well. I knew Lexis Consultants was the stepping stone to my ambitious career. One day, I wanted to run the best legal firm in the city. I smiled at Mr. Segal and returned to my section. As I occupied my seat, Maria and Sofia, my colleagues, waved at me. "How did it go?" Maria inquired. "Success," I grinned at her. "Thank god, we are saved. I wasn't ready to take the wrath of that badass, trust me," said So
ALICE RILEYMonday mornings were supposed to bring new beginnings, but today I was hoping for something more—a fresh start that kept Vivian Scott firmly out of my orbit. With our manager, Susan Donovan, returning from her medical leave, I had every reason to believe my days of direct involvement with the Scott Group account were behind me.As I stepped into the office, a sense of determination steadied me. I had spent the weekend rehearsing my resolve, willing myself to let go of the memories of that night. Vivian Scott was a distraction I couldn’t afford.Maria and Sofia were already at their desks, their faces lighting up the moment they saw me.“Good morning!” Maria greeted; her smile as bright as the coffee in her hand.“Guess what?” Sofia leaned over her desk conspiratorially. “Ms. Donovan is back!”Relief washed over me, and I couldn’t help but smile. “That’s great news!”Maria nodded enthusiastically. “She’s in her office, already going through emails. Looks like she’s ready to
ALICE RILEYI woke up in Vivian’s arms, his warmth seeping into my skin as his hand rested lightly against my back. My cheek was pressed against his chest, and the steady rhythm of his heartbeat filled the quiet room. For a moment, I let myself sink into the comfort of it, feeling safe. A feeling I hadn’t allowed myself to indulge in for a long time.It was disarming, almost dangerous, how right it felt. Vivian Scott was dangerous, not because of what he had done, but because of what he could do. If I let myself feel anything more, he would have the power to hurt me someday. And that wasn’t a risk I was willing to take.Carefully, I lifted my head, untangling myself from him. His chest rose and fell in a slow rhythm, but I could feel his awareness in the slight tension of his body. He was awake, just letting me move at my own pace.I sat up and reached for the clothes I’d discarded the night before, slipping into them like a shield. “I should go,” I said, my voice carefully even, thou
ALICE RILEYThe soft hum of the city lights outside the penthouse was the only sound in the room, but it felt distant and insignificant compared to the tension that hung in the air between us. I still hadn’t caught my breath from the kiss, and Vivian’s gaze didn’t waver. His eyes were dark with unspoken desire."I'm hungry," he murmured, his voice a deep, gravelly whisper that sent a shiver cascading down my spine. "But not for food anymore."The way he said it, the raw intensity in his tone, made my pulse quicken. For a second, I felt caught, like prey under the predator’s gaze. I could feel the weight of his words settling over me, and though I didn’t respond verbally, the subtle hitch in my breath must have been enough for him to sense my agreement.Before I could process what was happening, he stepped closer, his strong arms scooping me effortlessly off the chair. I let out a startled gasp, but it was cut short as his lips found mine again, demanding and full of purpose.This kiss
ALICE RILEYThe elevator ride to Vivian Scott’s penthouse was unnervingly smooth, but my nerves weren’t. As the numbers ticked up, I glanced at my reflection in the mirrored walls, ensuring that everything was perfect—my carefully chosen dress, soft waves framing my face, and the faint sheen of gloss on my lips. Tonight wasn’t about him; it was about proving to myself that I could handle him and walk away unscathed.The elevator doors opened with a soft chime, revealing a hallway with polished floors and minimalist decor. I stepped out, my heels clicking against the tiles as I approached the door. Before I could knock, it opened, and there he was—Vivian Scott.My breath caught for the briefest moment. Gone was the impeccably suited CEO. Instead, he stood there in a casual black sweater that hugged his broad chest and dark jeans that emphasized his lean frame. His hair was slightly tousled, as though he’d run his fingers through it while working, and a relaxed smile played on his lips.
ALICE RILEYThe long, drawn-out meeting filled the conference room with formal discussions and a rigid sense of professionalism. At the center of it all was Vivian Scott, the epitome of a polished CEO—sharp, composed, and utterly engrossed in Alexis Segal's numbers and strategies. His focus remained unwavering, fixed entirely on Alexis, with barely a glance spared in my direction.I couldn't deny it. A small part of me—perhaps my ego, perhaps something more—had hoped for at least a flicker of recognition, a glance in my direction. But no, his piercing gaze never once met mine. He was all business today, his words measured, his tone calm but authoritative. His tailored navy suit, crisp white shirt, and the faintest hint of cologne only added to the power he exuded.As the conversation paused briefly for coffee, I heard Maria and Sofia whispering from their seats beside me.“Did you see him just now when he leaned back in his chair?” Maria muttered; her voice low but laced with exciteme
VIVIAN SCOTTThe low hum of classical music filled the dimly lit room, and a glass of whiskey rested on the table beside me. I sat on the plush leather couch, leaning back, my gaze fixed on the flames flickering in the fireplace. It was a rare evening without work calls or deadlines. Time to relax, to unwind. And yet, I couldn’t shake the restlessness coursing through me.It had been days since I last saw Alice Riley. Days since her sharp tongue and fiery defiance had sparked something in me, I hadn’t felt in a long time. She was unlike anyone I’d encountered—challenging, intriguing, maddening.I swirled the amber liquid in my glass, a soft chuckle escaping my lips. When was the last time a woman had occupied my mind like this? I couldn’t recall. Since that night, I hadn’t even sought the company of another woman, which was uncharacteristic of me. Normally, my weekends were a blur of charm and indulgence, a distraction from the pressures of business.But now, as the weekend loomed, my
VIVIAN SCOTTI looked at the attractive girl working in the kitchen in her short skirt and a white blouse. She had changed into comfy clothes before brewing coffee for us. Alice was a natural beauty. She looked good in whatever she wore, and I couldn’t take my eyes off her toned legs as she kept tapping her feet while brewing the coffee. “Here you go,” she said as she kept the coffee cup in my hands. The smell of fresh coffee hit my nostrils, and I inhaled it deeply.“Ah, this smells so good,” I said as I sipped coffee from the cup. “And it tastes heaven.”She laughed, making me forget the world for a few seconds. Man, this girl! She was killing me with her beauty.“Don’t tell me coffee is your weakness,” she giggled as if she caught me stroking myself. I agree that I made it obvious I was a coffee lover. But that giggle was a little too much. Unnecessary, I thought.“What do you like?” I asked her, hiding my thoughts.“I do like coffee. But I guess not as much as you.”“You judging
VIVIAN SCOTT Alice was stubborn. She tried to act tough. But behind that facade, I could sense some vulnerability. It felt like she was consciously hiding her interest in me, only to seem unaffected by my persona. Stupid girl! The harder she tried, the more evident it was. I was curious to know more about her. She pulled me like a magnet, and I allowed myself to go in her direction. Her refusals to my offers didn’t bother me because I could recognize she was only masking her emotions, faking her attitude. Oh well, I, of course, wanted to ensure I was right. So, tonight, I was going to test it. Putting a stop to my thinking, I turned to my right to watch the beautiful face sitting beside me. She swallowed her last piece of burger and smiled. “Thank you for the food, Mr. Scott.” “Call me Vivian,” I said, taking another cookie from her. “When you eat together, that too, in a car, you surely are friends.” She grinned at my point. “That’s a good logic. But technically, we aren’t fri
ALICE RILEY I told Vivian Scott a no to dinner date! As I stood up, ready to leave the restaurant after rejecting Vivian’s invitation to join him for dinner tonight, I knew I was behaving rudely with him. But I couldn’t help. The atmosphere between us had always been a mix of tension and teasing, and dining with him could have only threatened my sanity. I refused, weighing the implications of accepting his invitation. His charismatic demeanor had already left me feeling both intrigued and conflicted. There wasn’t room for further meltdown. Moreover, I was genuinely pissed at him for using his CEO powers on me. Could a billionaire, a CEO, or a boss be ever considerate? After I stormed out of the restaurant, I stood at the exit, waiting for my cab. Ten minutes passed, and still, there was no sign of the cab. Instead, I received a call from the cab driver. “Ms. Riley, the car has run into engine issues. It’s taking time. I’m afraid you will have to book a cab.” I could suddenly f