His Perfect Temptation

Familiar Eyes, Forgotten Nights

Ignacio's POV

I walked into my office, expecting to see an eager job applicant waiting for me.

But nothing could have prepared me for the shock I felt.

The lady staring at the window, admiring the artwork on the walls, was no other than her, the woman from the unforgettable night.

My mind went blank as images flashed before my eyes, her body, her face, her dress. Everything about her came flooding back, the way she'd felt in my arms, the sound of her moans, the taste of her skin.

I'd thought about her countless times since that night, wondering who she was, and where she'd gone. But here she was, standing in my office, looking as radiant as ever.

As our gaze met, I saw a flicker of recognition in her eyes, which was then followed by confusion.

I couldn't help but notice the tension in her body. She seemed very uncomfortable, shifting slightly in her seat, and for a moment, I thought she might actually stand and run.

But then her aura changed, she seemed to collect herself, despite her obvious unease, she greeted so casually as if we were strangers meeting for the first time.

I raised an eyebrow, intrigued by the disconnect between her words and her body language. Did she really not remember me?

I felt a surge of emotions, surprise, curiosity, with a hint of excitement. What was she doing here? And why did she look at me like I was a stranger?

I also compose myself. I had to stay professional, after all. "Sorry to keep you waiting" I finally spoke, as I made my way towards the seat. " How can I help you" I asked.

"I'm here for the job interview," she replied, her voice was steady, but I noticed a hint of nervousness beneath those words.

"Oh. The job interview." I said as I glanced at the file on my desk, looking for her name. "And you are...?"

"Maliya Alvarez." She uttered.

That's right I never got her name."So, let's get started with the interview, Shall we?" I asked, flipping through her resume.

But my eyes kept drifting back to her face. I couldn't help but notice the way her hair fell in loose waves down her back, and the way her eyes sparkled in the office light.

"So, tell me, why do you think you're the best fit for this position?" I asked, trying to keep my tone professional.

She moved a bit slightly in her seat, while her eyes kept drifting away from mine. "I believe I'm the best fit for this position because of my strong educational background in marketing and my eagerness to learn and grow," she said, I can admit she does sound confident.

I couldn't help but appear to be a bit impressed. But as she continued to answer my questions, I couldn't help but notice the lack of depth in her responses.

She didn't have any significant work experience, and her answers seemed to be based more on theory than actual practice.

I made a note on her resume, trying not to let my disappointment show. "I see," I said, trying to sound neutral. "And can you tell me about a time when you had to overcome a difficult challenge?"

She hesitated, looking unsure of how to respond. "Well, I've had to work on several group projects in school, and sometimes it can be challenging to get everyone to agree on a direction," she defended.

I tried to be encouraging. But inside, I was thinking that this wasn't exactly the kind of experience I was looking for in a candidate.

As she finished her story, I realized that I'd been staring at her, lost in thought. I cleared my throat, trying to compose myself. "That's... interesting," I responded.

She smiled, looking relieved, and I couldn't help but notice the way her lips twip at the corners. It was a small, intimate detail that made my heart flutter.

"Now, I have to ask Is there anything you'd like to tell me about your qualifications or experience that we haven't discussed yet?"

It was a standard question, but I was hoping she'd reveal something more. And then, just for a moment, I thought I saw something flicker in her eyes. Something that looked almost like... recognition.

But it was quickly extinguished, "No," she said, "I think that's everything."

I couldn't help but wonder what was she hiding. And why did she seem so determined to pretend that we were strangers?

I leaned back in my chair. I was starting to get annoyed with her act, did she really not remember that night?

I decided to test her, to see how far she would go to pretend like nothing had happened between us. "Well, Ms. Maliya," I spoke. "I think we've covered everything. But before we conclude, I have one more question for you."

"Yes, of course, go on sir" she expressed

"I want to make one thing clear," I paused as I locked eyes with her "If you're offered this position, you'll be expected to work long hours. I'm talking 14-hour per day, 6 days a week. You'll be expected to put in extra time whenever necessary, without complaint."

Her eyes widened but she didn't hesitate. "I'm willing to put in the work," she countered.

"And you'll be expected to travel extensively," I added. "Weekends, holidays, it doesn't matter. You'll be on the road whenever the company needs you."

She nods her head in agreement gain, unwavering. "I'm willing to do whatever it takes," she retorted.

And you'll be expected to deal with high levels of stress," I added. "The work will be demanding, and the pressure will be intense. Are you sure you're up for it?"

She didn't flinch. "I'm positive," she affirmed.

I sat back in my chair, wondering why she kept saying yes to everything without attempting to counter.

"Okay, Ms. Maliya," I finally spoke. "I think that's all the questions I have for now. We'll be in touch soon to let you know my decision."

"Thank you," she responded as she gathered her things. And, just as Maliya was about to step out of the office, Marisol appeared in the doorway, with a look of urgency on her face.

"Mari-" I started to say, but she cut me off.

"Ignacio, please we need to talk," she begged, her voice pleading and desperate.

And with that, Maliya slipped out of the office, leaving me alone with her.