The moment I walked through the door, I didn’t bother taking off my shoes. I went straight to my room, threw my bag in a corner, and collapsed on my bed. I was knackered.

Out of all the people in Los Angeles. Millions, by the way, it just had to be him who ended up as my new boss.

Liam freaking Black.

Of course, it couldn’t be Jay. Jay is kind, humble, and charming. There’s no arrogant celebrity air around him, no “I’m better than you” vibe. He’s easy to talk to, If only his arrogant brother could emulate him.

I let out a sigh and shut my eyes.

Sleep took me almost instantly.

My phone’s ringtone dragged me out of my dreams. I groaned, blindly reaching for it on my nightstand.

Lisa.

I answered, voice raspy. “Hey, girly.”

“How was your first day?” Her voice was bright, chirpy and far too energetic for how I was feeling.

I rolled to the side. “It was okay. My new boss is a jerk. It is a pity that he is so handsome. Honestly, I wish he was old, bald, lonely and ugly.”

She burst out laughing. I could picture her holding her tummy, in amusement. She always did that when something cracked her up.

“How cute is he though?” she asked with curiosity.

I groaned. “Painfully. You should see the man. He looks like he was sculpted by the gods. It’s unfair for one person to look that good.”

She screamed loud enough to rupture my eardrum. I winced and removed the phone from my ear.

“Jesus, Lisa!”

“I can’t help it! I badly wanna be you right now. At least you are having a swell summer holiday. Meanwhile, I’m stuck here with these tiny demons, climbing all over me like I’m a seesaw.”

That’s one of the things I love about her. Like me, she’s a family girl through and through. She flew to Florida to help her sister with the kids. The third baby was on the way, and she didn’t hesitate for a second before offering to help.

“I remember how excited you were before leaving,” I teased, mimicking her voice.

“I miss my babies so much. I can’t wait to see them!”

She giggled. “I did miss them! They’re adorable on FaceTime. But now that I’m here, all I want is to lock myself in a room and pretend I don’t exist. They’re like cute mini-terrorists.”

I laughed softly. “You’re so dramatic.”

Her tone shifted to something more curious. “So, besides Mr. Greek God Boss, did anything else happen?”

I paused for effect.

“Spill it already Em!”

I grinned. She is always impatient when it comes to gist. “I might have possibly agreed to be a video vixen for Jason Black, the singer.”

She screams on the other end of the line.Damn it! Have mercy on my ears girl. I braced myself, already regretting this.

“You did what?! That’s so freaking cool! You’re going to be in a music video with Jason Black! Girl, you are lucky! Do you know how many people would kill for that opportunity?”

I remained silent.

She picked up on it instantly. Her voice softened. “Wait, you’re not excited? What is the problem Em?”

“I just don’t know if it is a good idea. It felt like a decision I made on impulse.”

“Crap!” she snapped. “You’re stunning, Em. You’ll be amazing on camera. Plus, it’s Jason we’re talking about. It’ll be an adventure! Who knows this could be good for you?”

I smiled faintly. “You are more excited than I am.”

“Someone has to be! Okay, fine. I’ll let you go since you’re all moody and tired. But we’re talking more about this tomorrow.”

“Bye.”

I ended the call before she could launch into another one of her rants. Don’t get me wrong. I love her. She’s my best friend. But when she starts talking sometimes, she does not stop. And tonight? I don't have the energy to keep up.

I forced myself out of bed and headed to the bathroom. After a quick shower, I fixed dinner. Chicken pasta. The nose blinding aroma filled the kitchen.

Mom and I used to sit down for meals together, talking about everything and nothing. Gossip, work, what shows we were watching. There was always laughter. Now, the silence felt louder than ever.

After eating, I cleaned up, and just as I was about to head back to my room, my phone buzzed.

Jay: Hey, Vixen! Any plans for tomorrow?

Me: Nope. Why?

Jay: Wanna come to the studio with me?

Me: Hmm. Depends. What’s in it for me?

Jay: You get to see where the magic happens. And, you get to hang out with me. What could be better?

Me: Not good enough. I’ll pass.

Jay: Ouch. Harsh. Okay, name your price.

I stared at the screen, amused. Then typed:

Me: Offer me something I can’t say no to.

His typing bubble appeared… then disappeared. Then reappeared. Then stopped again.

I'm curious now. What the heck is he typing?

Finally, his message came through:

Jay: There’s this famous Italian chef in LA. You might’ve heard of him. His name starts with M and ends in O.

My heart skipped.

Me: Marco Russo?

Jay: Bingo. I told him I might stop by tomorrow with a friend.

Me: You're evil!.

Jay: Haha I’m surrounded by business people. I learned from the best. So, Em… you in or out?

Me: Ugh. Fine. You win. You got yourself a deal.

Jay: Excellent choice. Now send me your address. I’ll pick you up at 9 a.m.

I sent him my location, a grin stretching across my face.

Marco Russo.

In the culinary world, he’s what Beyoncé is to music. He only cooks for VIPs, A-listers, royalty, billionaires. And tomorrow, I get to meet him.

Jay: Goodnight, Em. See you tomorrow.

Me: Goodnight, Jay. Sleep tight.

I dashed to my closet and started rummaging through it. I need to arrange my outfit for tomorrow.

I know I’m acting like a kid promised a trip to Disneyland, but excuse me this is my Disneyland.

I don’t know how I’ll sleep tonight. But one thing’s for sure…

I can’t wait for tomorrow.

At exactly 9:00a.m., my phone buzzed.

Jay: Outside. Come out, Vixen.

I’d been up since six, way thrilled to sleep. I raced to the door, nerves and excitement tangling in my chest. Outside, a sleek black Range Rover parked on the street. Jay lowered the window and gave a small wave.

“Hop in,” he said with a grin.

He seems like a morning person. His face was bright and cheerful. I slipped into the passenger seat. “Morning,” I greeted both Jay and the driver, who looked more like a bodyguard than a chauffeur. Black suit, dark shades,a black ink tattoo ran down his shoulder.

He gave a stiff nod and started the engine.

The car goes into motion. I was bouncing my legs in excitement. Today is like Christmas coming early for me.

He chuckled “You’re awfully giddy for someone who needed heavy bribery to be here.”

I rolled my eyes. “Shut up before I change my mind .”

“Please. We both know you wouldn’t dare,” he said, smirking.

And damn it, he was right. If he bailed on me now, I’d genuinely cry. Not that he needed to know that. He’d never let me hear the end of it.

The studio wasn’t far. We arrived within twenty minutes, and Jay guided us inside like he owned the place. Which, honestly, he probably did in some way. The air smelled like leather and polished wood.

There are a bunch of recording equipment here. A microphone, audio interface, headphones, studio monitors and the rest I can't identify.

“This is where magic happens,” he said dramatically.

I smiled as he introduced me as his friend to the crew. That word warmed something in my chest.

Jay vanished into the vocal booth, headphones on, fully in his element. I took a seat in the cozy waiting area, scrolling through my phone to kill time.

Then, someone sat beside me.

I glanced up and froze

Mason Jacob.

The Grammy-winning, chart-topping, sinfully good looking Mason Jacob. I once had a massive crush on him.

This had to be a dream. I discreetly pinched my arm.

“Ow!”

He let out a hearty laugh, “Careful now. You’re not hallucinating.”

I blinked. “Wait.. was that an accent?”

He smiled, amused. “Yup. Grew up in London. Moved back here when I was nineteen. It slips out now and then.”

God. His voice is smooth.

I palmed my eyes. “Did I just say that out loud?”

“You did. And it was adorable.” He leaned back. “I’m Mason, by the way.”

“As if I didn’t know,” I muttered, embarrassed. “Emily.”

“Emily” he tasted my name in his lips ”Pretty name for a beautiful lady”

I blushed

“So, what brings you here?” he asked, eyes scanning the studio.

“I am here with Jay. More like he bribed me into coming with him” I snorted

He raised a brow.

“Jason Black” I clarified.

He chuckled, “That makes sense. He always strikes a hard deal.”

“You’re telling me.”

Mason tilted his head. “Are you his girlfriend?”

My eyes widened. “God, no. He’s just a friend.”

Introducing myself as a friend is better than admitting to working for the egotistical brother.”

“Hmm,” his hazel eyes lingering. “I see.”

I was dying to ask what brought him here, but I didn't want to cross boundaries. I guess my face gave it away anyway.

“I am here to see Jay. Finalizing details for my upcoming tour.”

I tried not to squeal. “That’s so cool.”

He paused, then looked me dead in the eye. “Wanna come?”

Was that a trick question?

“Hell yes!” I said, too fast.

He laughed. “Noted. I’ll talk to Jay and get your number before I leave.”

I watched him disappear down the hallway. Did that just happen?

I quickly texted Lisa: Guess who I just met?

I bet she will blow up my phone once she receives the text. She dislikes me when I do this.

By 12:45, Jay emerged, all smiles, with Mason trailing behind him. My brain had been slowly melting in boredom.

“Emily,” Mason said, stopping in front of me. “Almost forgot.”

He handed me his phone, and I punched in my number.

“Bye, beautiful,” he said with a wink.

My cheeks flushed. I was still recovering when Jay leaned in with a mischievous smile .

“Em Em.. Emily?” he said, tapping my cheek lightly. “I was right about you.”

I blinked. “What are you even talking about?”

He didn’t answer, rather he just wrapped a hand around my arm. “Come on, Vixen.You’re in for a long ride.”

Outside, the serious driver was already waiting. He gave him the next destination. He typed on his phone, glanced my way and continued. There's mischief written all over his face. I shot him a suspicious look.

“You’ve got a sparkle in your eye. What did you do?”

He just smiled.

After a 35-minute drive, the car pulled up in front of Marco Russo’s restaurant. The ambience is breathtaking, elegant and sophisticated. Soft lighting. Tables are well spaced to provide privacy. Crips linens, exquisite tableware and cutlery. Luxurious designs.

The architecture screamed money. The reviews were honest, this place was jaw-droppingly beautiful.

Jay walked in like he owned the place, clearly a regular. Perks of being rich and famous.

I followed, eyes wide.

And then, I saw him.

At a reserved table, cool and composed, eyes on his phone, was Mr. Liam Black.

My boss.

The walking embodiment of bad moods and brooding stares.

I froze.

Jay? He was smiling.

“You didn’t” I whispered.

“Oh, but I did,” he whispered back, nudging me forward.

Someone please give me a tangible reason why I shouldn't strangle him.

And yet,I walked forward.

Argh!!!

Let the drama begin….

Liam Black was the last person I imagined seeing at Marco Russo’s restaurant. His bratty attitude is the last thing I needed. I was already having an awesome day. He will just ruin it all.

Yet there he was, sitting in his full glory, wearing a three piece navy blue suit and looking insanely attractive. Tapping furiously on his phone. Whoever that is at the other end, I kinda pity. He has this scowl on his face. He was pissed.

Jay, grinned beside me.

"Brother!" he announced cheerfully.

He glanced up and noticed my presence. He inhaled a sharp breath, a muscle ticking on his jaw

"If I remember correctly, you said you wanted to have lunch with me" his eyes held my gaze

"You failed to mention we'd have company."

Jay feigned innocence. "You know me. Must've slipped my mind."

I shifted uncomfortably, feeling the weight of Liam's scrutiny. His eyes, sharp and assessing, lingered on me.

“Hello Mr Liam” I greeted awkwardly with a polite smile.

His attention went back to his phone. He didn't acknowledge my greetings.

Gosh

Can we skip this lunch? Wait no! That means I won't meet Marcus. I will just ignore him. He can't ruin this for me.

Jay pulled out a chair for me. "Come on, Em Sit, let's have lunch. Ignore him" he whispered the last part in my ear.

Reluctantly, I took the seat between the two brothers. The tension was palpable, a silent battle of wills playing out over crisp linen and polished silverware.

Moments later, Marcus, with his salt and pepper hair, approached our table. A warm smile on his face.He wore a chef’s jacket embroidered with a gold M.R His presence was commanding, yet inviting.

"Gentlemen, Miss," he greeted us with a slight bow. "Welcome"

Jay's face lit up. "Marcus! my Man” he stood and gave him a side hug.

“Emily, meet Marcus Russo. The best in town"

My heart skipped a beat. Marcus Russo, the culinary genius I'd admired from afar, was standing before me.

"It's an honor meeting you," I managed, extending my hand.

He took it gently. "The pleasure is mine, Emily. Jay said something about culinary arts"

I shot Jay a surprised glance, he winked. Okay, I forgive him for this stunt he pulled today.

“Yes. I would be rounding up in a year”

“That's good. You are free to contact me whenever you need my help. Any friend of the Black’s is a friend” he stated with a gracious smile

Holy cow

I was restraining myself from squealing. Did Marcus Russo just give me free access to him?

“Thank you so much. You're far too kind”

Liam cleared his throat. Argh!! This man. Of course he would interrupt now. He finally found his voice. I mentally rolled my eyes. Sadist.

"Marcus, we will trust your judgement as always."

He nodded. "I'll have your courses out shortly."

As he left, I couldn't contain my excitement. "I can't believe I just met Marcus Russo!. Thank you so much Jay. I appreciate this."

Liam snorted. "He is just a guy. Stop being overly dramatic."

If I murder this guy won't it be cruel if they send me to jail? What An obnoxious fellow. "You don't get to decide what he is to me.I don't remember asking for your opinion" I glared at him.

“It's actually better when your mouths are shut” I muttered under my breath.

Jay chuckled. "Don't mind him, Em. He's just jealous. He desperately wanna be Marcus right now"

He shot his brother a glare. "Quit talking rubbish. You know I don't give a shit."

“You don't get to decide for the rest of us” I counter

Our appetizers arrived, a delicate arrangement of flavors and colors. I took a bite, savoring the explosion of taste.

"This is incredible," I murmured.

Liam smirked. "Like you were expecting less."

I met his gaze, determined not to let him intimidate me. "Jeez, can you pretend like I am not here?."

Jay leaned back, a satisfied smile on his face. "Isn't this fun? Good food, great company. What more can I ask for?"

Liam’s expression remained stoic.

The main course arrived, each dish more exquisite than the last. Despite the underlying tension, I couldn't help but be swept up in the culinary experience.

As dessert was served, a decadent chocolate creation, Marcus returned to our table.

"I hope everything met your expectations," he said.

Jay raised his glass. "Exceeded them, as always."

I nodded enthusiastically. "Truly unforgettable."

Marcus smiled. "I'm glad. Enjoy the rest of your evening.

"When he left, I turned to Jay. "I know I sound like a broken record right but thank you really. It was amazing."

He grinned. "Anything for you, Vixen."

“This will be a perfect place for a date don't you think Em?” He asked

“Yeah, I guess”

“Do you have a boyfriend”

Why do I feel like this more of a trap than a question. What's Jay up to again?

“No I answered”

“Do you believe in love”

I paused. I didn't expect that question. I can feel Liam's eyes on me.

“Sure. Love is a Beautiful thing. Better experience with the right person”

Liam snorted “Rubbish. That is what they all say like they mean it.”

“Well, with a smelly attitude like yours, I bet no one will put up with you for long” I fired back

“Oopsie,” Jay said, casually drinking from his glass.

I observe as Liam's demeanor changes. A dark look brewing in his eyes. I must have struck a nerve.

He stood, adjusting his jacket. "If you'll excuse me."

Jay raised an eyebrow. "Leaving so soon?"

His gaze lingered on me. "You know I am a busy man."

Without another word, he left.

I sighed, the weight of the encounter settling over me.

Jay reached across the table, squeezing my hand. "Don't let him get to you. He's a great guy when he's not putting up the façade."

I offered a small smile. "I'll try."

As we finished our dessert, the atmosphere lightened. Despite the earlier tension, the evening had been a memorable one.

He leaned in, his eyes twinkling. "So, ready for our next adventure?"

I laughed, the sound easing the last of my nerves. "Like I have a say in whatever you are plotting."

As we left the restaurant, the night air was cool and refreshing. I glanced back at the building, a sense of anticipation bubbling within me.

Whatever lay ahead, I was ready.