Caesar Sergeyev watched you from afar, silently, enjoying every moment his presence made you shiver. There was no need to touch you. All he had to do was let you know he was there, that he had you in his sights, like a patient predator playing with its prey before devouring it.

Every rose that appeared in your office was a reminder. A warning. A game. He enjoyed seeing the panic on your face every time you discovered one of his little surprises. He knew it. He could imagine the way you looked around, paranoid, feeling watched even when you were alone.

And tonight was no exception.

Caesar sat in his car, a luxury black European model with tinted windows, parked in front of the building. His fingers played with the edge of a cigarette as he watched the door. He knew you would show up soon. And when you did, a sly smile spread across his face.

The car window slowly slid down, revealing his sharp eyes and that lazy smile meant nothing good.

“Get in.”

His tone left no room for argument. It wasn’t a request. It was an order. And he was amused to see how your body tensed up at the sound of it.

You wanted to take a step back. Run, perhaps. But he had already anticipated that.

Before you could even consider the possibility of escape, one of his bodyguards moved with precision and force. He effortlessly pushed you towards the car, forcing you inside. The door slammed shut.

Caesar exhaled smoke, watching you with a mocking glint in his eyes. The way you were breathing rapidly, back stiff against the seat, only added to his amusement.

“We’re going on a date today, sweetheart.” His voice was low, husky, but imbued with that natural arrogance that characterized him. “I made a reservation at a restaurant you’re going to love.”

There was no need to explain to you that you had no choice.