Mr. Billionaire's Illicit Desires

Chapter Two

Chapter Two

Ava's POV

I gazed at my reflection in the mirror for the fifth time this morning , nerves twisting in my stomach. It was 7 am, and though early, I opted to leave. I decided that it was the ideal thing since it was better to get there early rather than late. The day I signed the contract replayed in my mind, Ethan’s hostility lingered.

I remembered that day like it was yesterday. Ethan had been hostile and very rude to say the least.

I had always had a crush on him since high school.

I had daydreamed multiple times with him. My crazy self would imagine the craziest things.

When my dad had first brought the idea that I should head the interior design sector of Urban-Loom Designs Co, I had been both excited and nervous. I was just fresh out of college and the idea of being the head of a big organization like Urban-Loom Designs Co, was something I didn’t think would happen in a million years.

At the reap age of twenty, I had great dreams and hopes for myself but never in my wildest dreams did I think that there was going to be a situation where I would be helping Ethan in his company.

“Ouu girl you look good” you sure you’re going to work?” Mave, my best friend and only companion teased as she entered my room.

It was no secret that I had literally been in love with Ethan since my high school days. At least not to Mave. I tried my best to hide it from Ethan though.

“Stop it, will you. It’s just a blouse and a skirt.” I responded feeling flushed.

“ Is it okay though, not too much over the top right?” I asked starting to feel a little insecure.

“You look good girl, I was just teasing.

I’m sure someone will also think the same.

I got to go, I’ll see you later in the evening.

I said as I rushed out of the room.

When I went to the lobby, I quickly located my car and hopped into it.

You could imagine the shock on my face when I tried to start the car and it wouldn’t start.

Could this day get any worse.

I took in a deep breath and started it again, still to no avail it wouldn’t barge.

At this point, it was on the verge of crying, when I tried it the third time, to my surprise, it started.

Hallelujah! I screamed. I looked around and to my horror, I wasn’t the only one in the parking lot. A group of six people at the other side of the lot looked at me like I was out of my mind.

I don’t blame them though, I was on the verge of going mad.

Feeling embarrassed, I shot them an apologetic smile and pressed the gas to start my journey.

The traffic in the city was the worst today. I had spent two hours getting to the office when I could have been just 45 minutes.

It looks like the universe was working so hard against me.

I arrived exactly at 8, packed the car and walked quickly towards the reception.

The receptionist had a big smile on her face when I got to the front desk.

“ Welcome Ma’am” she said.

Thank you. I responded.

Can you take me to Mr. Bowen’s office?

Actually ma’am I have been instructed to lead you to the interior design office upon your arrival.

I was surprised that they had set up the office with the short amount of time they had.

I followed her to the elevator where we waited a bit for it.

When it arrived, we walked into it with the few people waiting alongside us.

I noticed that she pressed the 12th floor.

I looked at my office in awe.

The office was divided into two parts. The main door leading to the office had an embroidery of the Interior Design office written boldly on it, the main office area was beautiful with four office desks arranged side by side.

I was so engrossed with how beautiful it is I hadn’t noticed the other door right in front of me with my name written on it. AVA MICHELLE JOHNSON. Under it was a small writing that said Director, Interior Design.

The office was stunning, with my name on the door. Alone, doubt crept in. Privileged but overwhelmed, I pondered my worthiness.

“ So this is going to be your space, Mr. Bowen said HR will be employing more people to work with you as time goes on.

Hope you have a wonderful day” the receptionist smiled as she took her leave.

Leaving me in the huge office all to myself.

For the first time since I got this job, I started to have self doubt. What if I was good enough?

I knew I was quite privileged to be so up to the corporate leader as a head start.

With this opportunity, I needed to put my all into it to make sure that this department flourishes.

I placed my bag on the ground and sat on the chair. With a big smile on my face, I spun in the chair, only to find Ethan with a frown. When I faced my desk again I imagined the shock on my face when I saw Ethan with a frown on his face.

I quickly stood up.

“Sorry I didn’t see you there” I said trying to mask my embarrassment.

Why do I always feel so small when he stares at me like that?

I always make a fool out of myself when he’s around.

“ I didn’t agree for you to come work in my company to make a fool out of me. If you are not going to work, just leave

Ethan scowled, his disapproval cutting through the air. “Sorry, I didn’t see you there,” I stammered, attempting to mask my embarrassment.

Ethan’s eyes bore into mine, his tone sharp, “I didn’t hire you to make a fool out of me. If you’re not working, just leave."

I felt a knot in my stomach, but I mustered courage. “Mr. Bowen, I’m here to work. I’m ready to contribute to the success of this department."

He leaned against the doorframe, arms crossed. “Contributing? You? I remember you as the daydreaming girl from high school. What makes you think you’re fit for this role?”

Defensive, I countered, “I have the skills and the vision for this job. I’ve studied design, and I’m ready to put in the effort.”

Ethan leaned against a desk, crossing his arms. “Studied design? Ava, this isn’t some college project. It’s the real deal, and real work requires more than just daydreams.”

I took a deep breath, determined to stand my ground. “I know it’s real work, and I’m prepared for it. I may have admired you in high school, but that doesn’t mean I can’t be a professional.”

He chuckled, a condescending edge to his voice. “Admired? More like obsessed. You were always following me around like a lost puppy.”

Annoyed, I shot back, “That’s not fair. This is about work, not personal history.”

“I’ve grown since high school. I’ve studied, gained experience, and I’m ready for this challenge,” I asserted.

He raised an eyebrow, skeptical. “Ready? Your first day, and you’re already causing a scene in the parking lot. Are you sure you’re cut out for this?”

“I had car trouble, it happens to everyone. It won’t affect my work,” I replied, frustration bubbling beneath the surface.

Ethan chuckled, a condescending tone in his voice. “We’ll see. Don’t expect any special treatment. You need to prove yourself.”

“I’m more than willing to prove myself,” I said, determination firm in my voice.

He pushed himself off the doorframe, walking towards me. “You’re not the only one who wanted this position. There were other candidates who might not have car issues on day one.”

“I understand, but I won’t let one bad morning define my capabilities,” I retorted.

Ethan’s eyes narrowed. “Capable or not, you’re on thin ice. If you’re not up to the task, I won’t hesitate to replace you.”

I took a deep breath, steadying myself. “I’m here because I believe in my abilities. I won’t let you down, Mr. Bowen.”

Ethan’s eyes narrowed, his hostility intensifying.

“We’ll see about that. But mark my words, Ava, dreams don’t build successful careers. Hard work and competence do.”

Get to work, Ava. Actions speak louder than words.”

As Ethan left the room, I couldn’t shake the tension in the air. My first day had taken an unexpected turn, but I was determined to prove myself in the face of his skepticism.