Page 9 of Dark Seduction

I read it twice, a mix of emotions swirling inside me.

Well, Lev, you certainly know how to make an exit.

Gratitude and relief bubble up, but there's a tinge of reluctance too. I don't want to take the money, but I know I'm in no position to turn it down.

I look at the thick stack of cash, knowing this is my ticket to a fresh start, even if it stings my pride a bit. I fold the note and slip it back into the envelope, determination settling in. Time to face the day and make the most of this unexpected twist.

I get dressed and slip the money into my purse, still grappling with the idea of taking it. Who the hell is this guy? I only got his first name. I consider asking the front desk, but then I realize they’re not going to give his info to some random woman who stayed over.

I step over to the window, looking out at the sprawling city below. Despite the whirlwind of the past twenty-four hours, I feel a newfound confidence rising within me. Ready to put my past behind me, I take a deep breath and smile.

Time for act two of my life.

Chapter 4

Dalia

Lev’s powerful body is on top of me, muscles flexing as he drives his thick cock into my eager pussy over and over. Each thrust is deep and powerful, sending waves of pleasure through me. His hands grip my hips firmly, holding me in place as he claims me completely.

"Call me sir," he growls, his voice dripping with lust and dominance.

"Yes,sir," I moan.

The way he commands me, the sheer power in his movements, it’s intoxicating. His cock fills me perfectly, and my body is overcome with pleasure. I’m getting closer to the edge, I can feel the tension coiling tighter and tighter inside me, ready to snap. He leans down, his breath hot against my ear.

"Come for me," he says, his voice a low, sexy growl.

Just as I’m about to lose myself in the fantasy, a loud horn honks, jolting me back to reality. I blink, shaking my head to clear the haze of arousal.

The real world comes rushing back.

I snap back into the moment, finding myself stopped at a red light in downtown Chicago. It has turned green and I give a little wave to the annoyed driver who honked at me, watching him speed past with a scowl on his face.

As I continue driving, I can’t help but notice how well the car seems to run—it’s better than ever. A grin spreads across my face as I remember the mechanic who’d been so rude to me when I first entered the shop. When I picked up my car the other day, however, he’d been meek and apologetic, practically tripping over himself to make sure everything was perfect.

Lev, whoever he is, sure has a way of putting the fear of God into people. And damn, am I grateful for it. The thought of him brings a warm flush to my cheeks, but I shake it off. Time to focus on the road ahead, both literally and figuratively.

With my car purring like a kitten and the city stretching out before me, I feel a surge of confidence.

I drive through the bustling streets, passing the towering skyscraper of Ivanov Holdings—the company where I’d interviewed. The interview had gone well, I think, but Bailey failed to mention that the position was for the personal assistant to the COO. That’s a far cry from the administrative role I’d expected.

It'd be a hell of an upgrade for my career, but the thought of working directly for one of the bosses of that enormous skyscraper is more than a little daunting.

The interviewer’s comments about how demanding Mr. Ivanov could be had been enough to give me pause.

Still, the challenge intrigues me.

I glance up at the impressive building, its glass facade reflecting the late morning sun, and wonder what it would be like to work in such a place.

It’s been a few days now since I interviewed and I haven’t heard anything. I can’t help but wonder if they decided I’m not suitable for the role and went with someone else. Screw them if they can’t see my potential. Still, I’m determined to make my own way.

At least I’ve got Lev’s money for some breathing room. I came here to Chicago to make it, and that’s what I’m going to do.Last thing I want is to go back home to Rhode Island.

I park in front of the charming brick walk-up I’ve rented for the month, thanks to Lev’s cash. I step out and stretch as I take in the quiet neighborhood.After a minute I grab my bag and head inside, ready to kick back and figure out my next move.

I step into my temporary apartment, a charming and cozy one-bedroom that feels like a perfect little retreat. The living room has a comfy couch and a small but cute kitchen area. It's not much, but it's all mine for now.

Just as I’m about to toss my purse on the couch, my phone rings. I quickly grab it, hoping it’s Ivanov Holdings, but no such luck. It’s Mom and Dad.

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