The elevator doors hissed open, revealing the polished expanse of the penthouse office. A single, stark desk faced the floor-to-ceiling windows, overlooking the city's sprawling lights. He could see her as she stood nervously, clutching her resume to her chest. The air crackled with an almost tangible tension.

"You’re late," Kael Thorne rumbled, his voice low and dangerous, from the shadows near the window. CEO of Thorne Industries, he emerged into the dim light. His eyes, dark and piercing, fixed on her with an intensity that made her shiver. He was a man sculpted from shadows and sharp edges, his presence dominating the room.

He moved with a predatory grace, closing the distance between them. "My time is not a commodity to be wasted," he continued, his voice a low growl. "Especially not by someone who is meant to manage it." He took the resume from her trembling hand, his fingers brushing against hers. He scanned the paper quickly, his expression unreadable. "Impressive credentials," he finally said, his gaze returning to hers. "But credentials mean little. I value loyalty, efficiency, and… obedience." He paused, his eyes narrowing. "Do you understand?”

He circled her, his presence suffocating. "You will be my shadow, my extension. Every meeting, every phone call, every aspect of my life… you will manage it. And you will do it flawlessly. Disappointment is… something I don't tolerate." He stopped directly in front of her, his gaze intense.