As Uncle Andrew entered the woods, he shifted into his massive grey wolf, a letter hung around his neck. He ran through the woods, checking if he was being followed, then entered a dark cave and emerged in another place where the trees were higher and lusher. There stood a man waiting for him. He shifted back, breathing heavily for a few seconds before regaining himself, and said these five words to the strange man while handing him the letter: "Pass this to the alpha." Then he turned back, shifted, and headed home.
Hayley woke up the next day with a smile on her face and hummed gleefully while making breakfast for her and her uncle. Today was going to be her first day at work. They had already changed the location of their house the previous day, as her uncle insisted they now resided in Newton Streets, New York City. It was to her own advantage, as it was a bit close to her new work, and she only needed to take a single cab while going. "Good morning, Uncle!" Hayley cheered as she set the omelets, eggs, and orange juice she had made for breakfast on the table as her uncle approached. "Good morning," he responded gently. They ate peacefully as Hayley got ready for work. She had already shared this good news with her best friend, Sarah, who was very excited for her.
She got ready, and her uncle wished her luck. Then, she took a deep breath and stepped out of the house to go to her work. She finally arrived at the organization with a semi-racing heart and sweaty palms as she walked through the reception with a smile on her face to look polite. "Hey Hayley, there you are!" beamed a woman from across the room as she approached her in medium-length heels, Louis Vuitton pants, and a black corporate shirt with a notebook and pen in her left hand. Everything about her screamed professionalism, and Hayley recognized the woman as the marketing department's team lead. "Good morning, ma'am," Hayley said with a polite smile and beaming eyes. "Good morning, I'd be showing you where you'd be working, so kindly follow me!"
As Hayley followed her out of the reception and into the elevator, with wide and excited eyes, she couldn't help but gape at the beauty of the place. It exuded understated elegance, with soft golden light, marble floors, and sleek modern fixtures. Towering pillars with silver filigree supported the high ceiling, while creamy white walls showcased vibrant modern art pieces. Plush emerald-green sofas and rich dark wood accents added luxury and sophistication, blending with the quiet efficiency and inviting aroma of freshly brewed coffee to create a welcoming, professional atmosphere.
As she and her team lead entered the elevator to the third floor in a comfortable silence, and as they both exited the elevator, she suddenly got hit with a strong masculine scent - earthy, citrusy, and spicy. It beckoned her closer, making her breathe deeper, and feel drawn to him. The scent whispered promises of warmth and comfort, irresistible and alluring, pulling her in helplessly. And as she looked up, she saw a very tall man with bright caramel skin exuding quiet confidence. Chiseled features, piercing blue eyes, and a strong jawline embodied masculinity. A hint of ruggedness from his dark stubble and tousled black hair added to his potent, unbridled energy.
Her team lead beside her quickly straightened as she said in a rushed tone and a professional smile, "Good morning, CEO Ryan, I wasn't expecting you to—" "Both of you, report to my office immediately," he cut her off while sparing Hayley one last glance, and he turned back in powerful strides and exited the area. Still lost in the daze of this unknown man, she hadn't even heard what he said until her team lead tapped her and repeated what the CEO had said. With rushed steps, they approached his office, which happened to be the last door on that floor. And as they entered the office, something unexpected happened.