Bound By His Name

Ella's POV The alarm pierced through my sleep, dragging me out of a dream I couldn't remember. I groaned softly, turning on my bed before reaching out to silence it. After whispering a short prayer, I finally forced myself up and out of the warmth of my sheets. The morning routine passed quickly. A shower. A glance at my reflection. Then my closet — which didn't offer much choice. I settled for black leggings and a pink-and-black sweatshirt before heading to the kitchen. Breakfast was simple, just enough to keep me going. By the time I stepped outside, it was already seven. The cold morning air hit my skin, sharp and refreshing, as I locked the door behind me and began my walk to work. I work at a small bakery in the city — nothing fancy. My boss, Edward, is... unbearable. Rude, controlling, and always looking for a reason to shout. The only thing that makes the place tolerable is Sonia, my best friend and coworker. I was changing into my uniform when Edward's voice echoed through the room. "Ella! Table four. Now!" I rolled my eyes internally and walked out, forcing a polite smile as I took the customers' orders. After serving them, I moved on to another table, only to hear Edward again. "You're closing tonight," he said flatly. "I can't," I replied. "I have things to do." His eyes narrowed. "Do you want to lose your job?" "No, sir," I muttered, looking away. He tossed the keys onto the counter and stormed out. "Jerk," I whispered. An hour later, I signed out and began closing the bakery. Sonia stayed behind to help me, cleaning tables while I locked the doors. "Thank you for staying," I told her. "Always," she said with a smile. We hugged goodbye outside, each heading in opposite directions. On my way to the bus stop, I passed three massive buildings — tall, sleek, and intimidating. One of them belonged to one of the most powerful billionaire companies in New York. As I drew closer, I noticed several men standing outside, all dressed in dark suits. They looked important... dangerous, even. But only one of them caught my attention. He stood slightly apart from the others, the lights of the building casting sharp shadows across his face. His features were striking — strong, cold, commanding. He looked like someone who was used to being obeyed. Without warning, he turned and began walking toward me. My breath caught. Our eyes met, and for a moment, the world around us faded. His gaze held mine — intense, unreadable. Then, slowly, one corner of his lips lifted into the faintest smirk before his expression hardened again. My palms grew damp as he passed by, close enough for me to sense his presence — powerful, controlled, overwhelming. I didn't look back until I reached the bus stop. That night, I lay awake in bed, my heart refusing to calm. His face replayed in my mind, over and over again, though I didn't even know his name. I didn't know it then, but that moment — that single glance — had just changed everything. ⸻ Alex's POV The meeting had been a disaster. I paced my office, phone pressed tightly to my ear, anger simmering just beneath the surface. "How do you mess up a schedule that simple, Mike?" I snapped. "I'll fix it, Alex," he replied cautiously. "You always say that." I ended the call and exhaled sharply, rubbing a hand over my face. The pressure, the expectations, the responsibilities — they never stopped. Being the heir to a billionaire empire meant control, power... and constant restraint. I grabbed my coat and stepped outside, my security team following closely. That's when I saw her. She was walking past the building, unaware of the way she stood out against the city noise. Simple clothes. Tired eyes. Something about her pulled my attention instantly. She looked up — and our eyes met. Something shifted inside me. I don't smile easily. I don't react impulsively. But with her, a smirk slipped out before I could stop it. I watched her walk away, my interest fully awakened. For the first time in a long while, I felt something unexpected. Curiosity. Remember to vote!!!!! And leave a comment on how much you love this chapter 😍 Next part drops on Monday ❤️