My Boss Is A Werewolf

Chapter 10

Clara Bennett

The next morning, I walked into the West Group building with my stomach tied in knots.

My eyes were puffy from another night of crying over Mom, and my hands wouldn’t stop shaking no matter how many times I wiped them on my black pencil skirt. I kept replaying Ryder’s phone call in my head.

*I like you. I want to be friends.*

The words made my heart race even now, but every time they did, Victor’s cruel threats pushed right back in.

“This is for Mom. Get the documents. Get close. Then get out.“

I stepped into the elevator, clutching my camera bag tightly against my chest.

When the doors opened on the top floor, I took a deep breath and walked straight to Ryder’s office. My heels clicked loudly on the marble floor, sounding too loud in my own ears.

Ryder was already at his desk, looking powerful and perfect in a crisp white shirt with the sleeves rolled up, showing off his strong forearms.

The second he saw me, his dark eyes softened just a little.

“Clara,” he said, his deep voice warm. “Good morning. Come in and close the door.”

I did as he said, my legs feeling stiff as I walked over. I stood in front of his massive desk, shifting my weight from one foot to the other. “Good morning, Mr. West.”

He stood up slowly, towering over me as usual. From his drawer, he pulled out a small red gift box tied with a black ribbon. My heart started hammering so hard I was sure he could hear it.

“I told you I had something for you,” he said, holding the box out to me. “Open it.”

My hands were so shaky I almost dropped the box. I untied the ribbon carefully and lifted the lid. Inside was a beautiful silver necklace with a smooth, glowing moonstone pendant. It looked expensive. Powerful. I stared at it, my mouth slightly open.

“It’s… beautiful,” I whispered. “But Mr. West, I can’t accept this. It’s too much.”

Ryder stepped around the desk and took the necklace from the box. He moved behind me, his tall body so close I could feel the heat coming off him. “Let me put it on you.”

I stood frozen as his fingers brushed the back of my neck, sending goosebumps racing down my arms. He fastened the clasp gently, then rested his hands on my shoulders for a second longer than necessary.

“It suits you,” he said quietly, his breath warm against my ear. “The stone… it’s special. It will protect you.”

Protect me? From what? I turned around to face him, my cheeks burning hot. Our bodies were way too close.

I could see the way his chest rose and fell, the way his jaw clenched like he was holding something back.

“Thank you,” I said softly, touching the moonstone with my fingers. It felt warm against my skin. “Why are you doing all this for me?”

Ryder looked down at me with those intense eyes. “Because I meant what I said last night. I like you, Clara. I want to get to know you better. Even if I’m your boss.”

I bit my lip hard, guilt crashing over me again.

This man was giving me a gift and being kind while I was planning to ruin him.

My hands trembled as I clutched the edge of his desk for support.

Before I could respond, Ryder continued. “There’s a big gala tonight at the Grand Ballroom. Important clients, business partners, the city’s elite will be there. I want you there as my personal assistant....stay close to me, and help with anything I need.”

A gala? With him? My mind raced. This was a perfect chance to see him in his world and maybe find more secrets. But being close to him all night… that was dangerous.

“I’ll be there,” I said, nodding quickly.

“Good.” He gave me a small smile that made my knees weak. “Wear something nice. I’ll send a car for you at 7 PM.”