BOUND TO YOU

BOUND TO YOU 2

Episode 2: An Unexpected Assignment

Maya Carter spent the rest of the morning trying to avoid the CEO's office. Every time she remembered the smug smile on Ethan Cole's face, her frustration grew. Of all the people in New York, why did the arrogant billionaire have to be the same man who had splashed water all over her the previous evening?

"Miss Carter."

She looked up to see Ethan's assistant standing beside her desk.

"Mr. Cole would like to see you."

The entire office fell silent. Curious eyes followed Maya as she made her way to the top floor.

She knocked gently.

"Come in," Ethan's deep voice called.

Maya stepped inside the luxurious office.

"You wanted to see me?"

Ethan looked up from the documents on his desk.

"Sit down."

"I'd rather stand."

A faint smile appeared on his face.

"You're different from everyone else here."

"I'm here to work, not impress my boss."

For the first time in years, Ethan found himself amused.

"I've reviewed your performance," he said, sliding a file across the desk. "You're one of the best employees in the company."

Maya frowned.

"So?"

"So, starting today, you'll be working directly with me on the company's biggest international project."

Her eyes widened.

"What? There must be some mistake."

"There isn't."

"I don't want the assignment."

Ethan leaned back in his chair.

"Unfortunately, that wasn't a request."

Maya clenched her fists.

"This is unfair."

"Life usually is."

Before she could argue again, Noah Brooks entered the office carrying several files.

"Sorry to interrupt," Noah said with a grin. "Oh... you must be Maya. I've heard a lot about you."

Maya raised an eyebrow.

"I hope not."

Noah laughed.

"I like you already."

Ethan cleared his throat.

"Noah."

"Right... business."

As they discussed the project, Maya slowly realized how important it was. If it succeeded, it would transform the company. If it failed, millions of dollars would be lost.

She sighed.

"Fine. I'll do it."

A small smile crossed Ethan's face.

"I knew you'd make the right decision."

As Maya left the office, she nearly collided with Victoria Hayes.

Victoria looked her up and down before forcing a fake smile.

"So, you're the new favorite."

"I don't know what you're talking about."

"You will."

Victoria walked away, but the warning in her voice sent a chill down Maya's spine.

From his office window, Ethan watched Maya leave.

For the first time in a long while, he felt something he couldn't explain.

She wasn't afraid of him.

And somehow... that made him want to know her even more.

End of Episode 2