Chapter 1 - The West Wing
SummonsNora stared at my pale face as if I had already become a ghost.
I shook my head slowly, trying to dislodge the memory of his burning touch.
“He didn't say anything,” I whispered, my voice barely working.
“Julian Vance never needs to speak to make a threat,” she replied, scrubbing the counter frantically.
I spent the rest of the morning jumping at every shadow in the estate.
By noon, the head of security, a mountain of a man named Silas, walked into the kitchen.
The entire room went completely silent.
“Maya,” Silas said, his voice like grinding stones.
“Mr. Vance requires your presence in the west wing conservatory.”
Nora shot me a look of pure, unadulterated pity.
No one went to the west wing unless they were being disciplined.
Or worse, being permanently removed.
I wiped my trembling hands on my apron and followed Silas through the maze of hallways.
My heart hammered a frantic rhythm against my ribs.
We stopped before a set of massive frosted glass doors.
Silas opened them and gestured for me to step inside.
The air was thick with the scent of orchids and damp earth.
Julian was standing with his back to me, staring out at the freezing rain.
May you like
“You wanted to see me, sir?” I asked, my voice betraying my fear.
He turned around slowly, holding a file with my name printed on it.
