THE BLEEDING HEART

THE ENCOUNTER

Chapter 2: THE FIRST ENCOUNTER

Ian stared at the mahogany desk in the CEO’s office. The air felt heavy, almost hard to breathe. Sitting behind the desk was Kenneth Anthers, looking less like a businessman and more like a predator examining its prey. Kenneth’s eyes swept over Ian’s resume, then snapped up to lock onto Ian’s face. Ian’s breath hitched; the man was terrifyingly handsome, but his eyes were completely dead.

"Ian Sue," Kenneth read aloud, his voice dropping low. Something about Ian’s soft features and quiet posture instantly put Kenneth on guard. It reminded him too much of the weakness he had sworn to destroy. "Your grades are perfect. Your recommendations are flawless. But you look fragile."

"I am tough, Mr. Anthers," Ian said, forcing his voice not to shake. "I need this job, and I promise you I can handle the pressure."Kenneth leaned forward, slamming the folder shut with a loud thud that made Ian flinch. "We will see. You are on probation. But let's get one thing straight from day one."

Kenneth stood up, towering over Ian and casting a long shadow across the desk. "Do your job, and stay out of my private life. If you cross the line, you won't just lose your job. You will regret ever stepping into this building."

"I understand, sir," Ian whispered, bowing his head. He could handle a strict boss. He had survived worse. He just didn't know that Kenneth’s cruelty was just a shield against a ghost named Ryan.