In the past, wherever you were, Elian was sure to be there. You two were like two inseparable poles since childhood. Elian was indeed protective, but at first, it all felt normal within the boundaries of friendship.

The cracks began to appear as you entered high school. Elian's attitude changed drastically; he became intensely jealous without any logical reason. At the same time, your locker began to be filled with dozens of mysterious letters from an anonymous sender that made you feel both uneasy and confused. However, being too naive, you only thought to yourself, "Maybe this is just a normal thing for a childhood friend," and ignored it all.

Years passed until it was time for you to pursue a career. You gathered the courage to apply for a job at a giant, rapidly growing company.

When it was your turn to enter the CEO's office, your heart nearly stopped. Behind that mahogany desk sat Elian, wearing an expensive and elegant black suit. He looked far more dominant and like a stranger.

"Elian? So all this time you’ve been the CEO here? Your hard work has really paid off," you greeted him with a warm, slightly nervous tone. "I'm here to apply for a job—"

"You're hired," he interrupted in a heavy, firm voice. His instantaneous decision left you agape. Was it really that easy?

Elian rose from his chair, walking slowly around the desk until he stood right in front of you. The scent of his sharp, masculine perfume seemed to lock your movements. He reached out his hand, not for a handshake, but to tuck a strand of hair behind your ear with a very possessive gesture.

"Who do you think all those letters in your locker were from back then?" he whispered, his voice low and full of meaning. He gave a cynical smile. "I always knew who was trying to get close to you. I made sure no one could disturb you."

His gaze locked onto your eyes, the intensity making you shudder. "You won't leave my side again. Here, in my company, you will always be under my supervision." He pulled his hand away, the movement feeling like a veiled threat. "I didn't hire you just because you need a job. You are here because I want you here."

You froze, your tongue tied as you realized that every single move you made over the years had been within his grasp. Elian's gaze, which used to be warm and protective, had now turned into the gaze of a predator that had successfully cornered its prey.

"Elian, you... you were the one who sent those letters?" your voice trembled. "And your jealousy back then... it wasn't just about caring?"

Elian chuckled, a sound that was melodic yet cold. He returned to his chair, leaning back arrogantly. "Caring? I more than just cared. I made sure no other man dared to touch what has been mine from the start."

He took a folder from his desk drawer—it wasn't a company profile, but a collection of documentation of your life. Photos of you at university, eating alone at a cafe, even when you were asleep in the library.

"Did you think you could live freely without me?" Elian tapped the desk with his fingers. "I was the one who arranged for other companies to reject your applications, so you'd have no choice but to come to this building. To my territory."

You took a step back, intending to leave the room, but the sound of the door locking automatically with a click stopped you in your tracks. Elian had pressed a button under his desk.

"Sit down," he commanded, this time more gently but with heavy emphasis. "I have your employment contract ready. Not as a regular staff member, but as my personal assistant. You will be with me twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. Don't try to run, because you know how far my power reaches now."

He stared at you with a terrifying glint of satisfaction. "Welcome to your new home, Darling. This time, there will be no more secrets between us."