Entangled with the CEO

Chapter Eight

Arianna’s POV

It was Monday morning, I was nervous and excited at the same time. My heart has been in a steady sprint since I woke up. The pitch today wasn't supposed to be complicated, but it was my first solo presentation and the fact that we were going over to StarLIFT didn't exactly help matters because I had no idea who would be present. I just had to be at my best.

I arrived at McLeod Industries only to find a small crowd of paparazzi and the media at the company’s entrance. It was a struggle to get in the building and when I finally did, I caught wind of the whispered talks.

“I think the rumors are true. The new President is illegitimate.”

“I guess that’s why the press is here.”

I continued walking but at a slow pace to keep up with the conversation. Apparently, the rumours about Killian legitimacy had surfaced again.

“I think the chairman brought him back because he doesn't find his real son worthy to lead the company.” Another one of the staff said, stepping into the elevator.

Everyone in this company had heard it at least once, that Killain McLeod wasn't a legitimate heir and that he was born out of wedlock.

I hadn't believed the rumors but the way he carried himself–measured, precise, and distant from his family– it didn't sound too far from the truth.

Focus, you have more pressing matters ahead of you.

It was already 8:30 a.m by the time I got to the golden floor and into my office. I dropped my bag and headed over to the conference room to rehearse for the presentation, only to find Killian there.

He had his back to me, staring out the window. I couldn't see his facial expression but he seemed deep in thought. He was every inch different from the carefree man I had spent the night with. Now, he had this arrogant, almost unapproachable stance to himself.

“Are you going to come in or are you going to keep staring, Miss Kent?” His voice came.

I blinked, clearing my throat, a blush creeping on my face. He had caught me staring.

“Good morning, Mr McLeod.”

“Morning, Miss Kent.” He turned to face me and once again, I'm blessed with those beauteous features that threatened to wreck my self control.

“I didn't mean to stare. I was been careful not to intrude on your quiet time.” I caught myself explaining. “How did you know it was me?”

His lips pulled in something akin to a smile but he said nothing as he turned and resumed his position by the window. It felt like a silent invitation to join him and I did. The very thought of rehearsing for the presentation flew out the window.

“It was hard getting into the building this morning. The media houses and paparazzi are perched outside. Are you aware?”

Of course, he knew. This was me trying to start a conversation.

“I’m well aware, Miss Kent.” He said. “It is my company, you don't think I'll be aware of every single detail.”

I gave a nod, turning to look at him. “I’m only curious how you came in without them hurdling you.”

He stopped as though giving my words a thought. “Oh, I arrived before them.”

I stared at him, surprised.

Doesn't he sleep at home? Or maybe he didn't have a home.

“I will have you know, I do have a home, Miss Kent.” His voice came, rather sarcastically.

“I had to tend to an unfinished business.” He said, walking away from me.

I bit my lower lip, realising my thoughts had betrayed me. I had said them out loud. But another thing hit, he had explained himself when he didn’t need to. A small smile pulled on my lips.

“Why are you here, though?” He asked, just as he got to the door.

True that. I was here for a reason.

“I-I was,” I stuttered. “I came to get a clear head and make final preparations for the presentation.”

He arched his perfectly arranged brow at my answer but said nothing regardless.

“Get ready, we leave in 15 minutes.” And with that he walked out of the room.

_____________________

In exactly 15 minutes, we were in the elevator. The ride was silent but I didn't mind since I was going through every important detail needed in my head. This presentation was important to the McLeod industries and more so, to Killian. I couldn't afford to mess things up.

We got to the main floor where some security guards were waiting. They escorted us to the underground parking lot and we drove away leaving behind the paparazzi who chased after the moving car.

I looked away from the chaos behind and at my boss. He looked unbothered as he scrolled through his tab, alternating between some other files. It almost felt like he was oblivious to the chaos and rumours.

“You know, it's rude to stare.” He said without looking at me, casually perusing the files in his hand.

For the second time today, he had caught me openly staring at him. I looked away from him, praying the ground would open and I'd fall inside, but unfortunately, nothing of such happened.

“It's always going to be like this.” He said, out of the blue. “So, you should be prepared.”

I blinked at his sudden comment, and then it clicked in my head. He was referring to the paparazzi and media houses.

I nodded my head. “Point noted.”

But curiosity hit me. I wondered how he was so unbothered about the rumours, if there was a phantom of truth to the rumours. I wondered if he remembered the night we had, if he remembered me from that night or if I was only a random one-night. I wondered about his tense and curt with Damian. Just like everyone else, I needed answers but I couldn't voice the questions or so I thought.

A voice in my kept telling me to shut all of my curious thoughts but my mouth betrayed doing something rather shocking.

“But rumours sir, are they all true?” If he heard me, he didn't let on, rather he continued his work on his tab. That should have been my clue to shut up but I didn't.

“The rumours questioning your legitimacy. If they aren't, don't you think it'll be best if you clear the air on it.”

He clenched his jaw, his lips pressed in a thin line. “And since when did you know what's best for me?” He said, curtly. His voice having a sharp edge to it.

He finally turned to look at me and I could see the rage in his eyes –I had screwed up.

“Last I checked, you're an employee under my employ. And you're paid to work and not think about what's best for me or act on gossip mills.”

I swallowed, nervously. I had never seen him this cold, angry and detached. It was as though the walls around him tripled and rose up too high for anyone to get in.

“I am–” I began but words failed me. I was clearly hurt by his tone.

“If you don't have any questions regarding the meeting, then I suggest you keep quiet. I'm trying to focus.”

And with that, he shut me out completely. The silence grew tense, awkward and uncomfortable.