His Private Chef

Emily, a stunning 22 year old, was raised by her mother. She returned home from college for the summer, with plans to spend the holiday with her mom, an esteemed private chef in Los Angeles. But when her mother falls too ill to fulfill a high-profile summer job, She is forced to take her place. She never expected her summer to involve working for Liam Black,the city's most sought after bachelor. Will they blur the lines or keep things strictly professional? One summer job, everything changes….. Chapter 1 I was getting ready to resume my new summer job today. Technically, It wasn’t mine to begin with. My mom was the one who signed the six-week contract. I was just standing in for her. I had come home to spend my last college summer with her. Senior year was just around the corner, and honestly, I couldn’t wait to get that degree in culinary arts. My love for cooking, I inherited from my mom. A renowned chef in Los Angeles. My father, God rest his soul, died when I was just four. Since then it’s been my mom and I. She’s all I got. So, when I returned home and found her looking pale. I knew there was no way I was letting her take on a job, no matter the personality involved. She did try her best to persuade me otherwise. “I have already signed the contract” she said But I stood my ground. Her health was more crucial than anything. No way she is working in this condition. You should see her. She looked unwell. “It is the Black family Emily. You know how powerful they are. Just let me do it. I’ll rest after this job, i promise” She had pleaded with me. No matter how heartfelt her plea, I won’t budge. I offered to do the job myself instead. I grew up in the kitchens, assisting her through events. This won't be difficult for me to handle. She needs to rest. So, I sent her to Houston to recover at my aunt’s place. Far away from the temptation of taking up a new job. I may or may not have threatened to never come home again if she refused. Funny how the roles reversed. I am now parenting her. She left yesterday evening, and the house has been too quiet. When I was done getting ready, I checked myself in the mirror. Black pants, a white top tucked in neatly, and my long black hair pulled into a ponytail. I looked the part. I nodded to my reflection, grabbed my keys, and headed out. The address led me to one of those neighborhoods that are reserved only for the rich, powerful and Influential. Wide streets, well manicured lawns. Everything screams money. I am not surprised, it is the Black family. They dominate the business world. Real estate, IT, Hospitality. You named it. Their surname opens doors in this city. I was granted access after I displayed my gate pass, drove along a breathtaking driveway leading to the main entrance. Holy moly A gigantic building was standing in front. I muttered under my breath, “This money we’re working for, some people really have too much of it.” I parked, took a breath, and stepped out. The number of cars in the garage is insane. My little car looked painfully out of place. The landscape is breathtaking. A large well-maintained lawn. A fountain at the center. An elaborate garden. I walked to the front door and rang the bell. A man in his early fifties opened the door. “Hello, I am Emily, the new Chef.” I said. He nodded,“Okay, come on in. Mr Liam will be down shortly. Wait in the kitchen” I followed him through a foyer that belonged in the palace. This place is huge. Larger than a typical home. A grand foyer with high ceilings welcomes you. A sophisticated living room,refined furnishing and attention to details in every aspect of the design. Every detail in this house contributes to the overall sense of luxury. When we reached the kitchen, he left. Wow This kitchen is P*******t worthy. High end appliances. Ample counter space and a spacious island. Gosh! I am in love. I was still admiring the space when a voice broke the silence. “Well, who do we have here?” I turned around, clutching my chest. “Oh my God, you startled me!” There he stood. The famous Jason Black. The award winning singer. Dressed so casual in a gray tracksuit, looking like a walking billboard. Short brown hair, kind brown eyes that compliment it. With a captivating smile. “You look even better in real life,” I blurted, then immediately regretted it. He laughed, loud and genuine. “It feels different when you get a compliment from a beautiful woman. ”I looked down, trying to hide my flushed cheeks. He walked over to the fridge, grabbed a water bottle, and took a seat at the island. I joined him. “So,” he asked, “what brings you here?” “Work. I’m the new chef,” I replied. He gave me a curious look. “You look young.” “I’m filling in for my mom. She’s ill. Trust me, I’m qualified. Grew up in kitchens, studying culinary arts. I know my stuff.” His eyes softened. “I’m sorry to hear that. Is she okay?” “She’s getting better. Thanks.” “You’re really chill for a superstar,” I added, smiling. “I’m a fan.” He chuckled and took a sip from the bottle. “What’s your name?” “Emily.” “Well, Emily, you’re cool too.” I liked him. He is easygoing, fun and humble. Not your typical spoiled celebrity stereotype. “But you know who’s not so cool?” he asked, raising a brow. I tilted my head. “Who?” “My brother. Your new boss. Liam Black. He can be intense. Don’t take everything he says or does personally” Why did that feel more like a warning than advice? “Got it,” I said. We started chatting about music, and I asked about the inspiration behind his song ‘To All the Memories’. He was in the middle of explaining when footsteps echoed in the hallway. He glanced up. “Speak of the devil.” I turned. Dayum! His is a masterpiece. Liam Black had entered the room. He is quite tall and muscular. Wearing a black three-piece Armani suit that looks like it was designed specifically for him. You could tell he frequented the gym. Chiseled jawline. Brown eyes. Perfectly carved nose. Hair slicked back with just enough curls. He smelled like wood and mint. Sophisticated. Intimidating. Its evident beauty runs in the blood. I understand why he is the most sought after bachelor in this City. The man is a sight for sore eyes. He didn’t spare us a glance. Just walked straight to the fridge, grabbed a bottle of water, and drank. “He’s rude,” I whispered to Jason. Jason stifled a laugh. “Good morning, dear brother,” Jason said. “Your chef is here.” Liam finished his water, turned slightly, and nodded once at his brother “Jay.” Then those eyes fell on me. He didn’t say a word. Just stared. I couldn’t read his expression. Disapproval? Curiosity? Annoyance? One thing was clear. This summer just got a whole lot more complicated... Chapter 2 I inhaled sharply under his cold, scrutinizing gaze. “You’re definitely not who I was expecting,” he said finally, his voice was cold. I straightened my shoulders. “No, I’m not. You were supposed to meet my mom, Mrs. Davis. I’m her daughter, Emily. I’m filling in for her. She’s unwell.” I saw the flicker of disbelief behind his blank expression. “This,” he gestured vaguely at me with his left hand, “is the best replacement she could find?” His tone was a mixture of rudeness and disapproval. He added in a condescending manner “Can you even hold a knife properly?” That last question did it. My blood was boiling. First, he insulted my mom, indirectly calling her judgment poor. And then he had the temerity to question my skills after barely meeting me? This bastard. How dare he? I stepped forward, eyes narrowing. “With all due respect, Mr. Black, I’d appreciate it if you spoke to me with basic decency,” I said, struggling to keep my voice steady. “If you don’t want me to work here, that’s okay. But I won’t stand here and be insulted or have my abilities belittled. I won’t tolerate it.” For a brief moment, something flickered across his face. Surprise, maybe? But it vanished quickly, replaced by a dark gloomy look. “Oh, feisty,” Jason murmured from behind, clearly amused. He shot him a glare but said nothing. The air grew thick with tension. You don't know tension if you're not in this room. “What’s your name?” He asked, his tone curt. “Emily,” I replied simply. He pulled out his phone, tapped a response to a message, then paused again. “Why should I let you cook in my kitchen?” His tone was cool, almost haughty. I bit the inside of my cheek and stopped myself from saying something rude. What is this, an interview ? “Because I’m capable,” I replied, matching his calm with my own. He raised a brow, clearly unimpressed. Clenching his jaw, “That’s it?” I gave a small shrug. “You’ve already made up your mind about me. I’m not here to win you over with fancy words. I know my abilities. If you’re not willing to take my word for it,it's up to you .” There was a long silence. Then he asked, “I assume you’ve read the instructions? The rules? There are no second chances here. Any mistake and you’re gone.” “Crystal clear,” I replied without hesitation. He held my gaze for a moment longer, then turned and left the kitchen without another word. The second he disappeared from view, Jason exhaled loudly. “That was intense,” he said. “Intense?” I scoffed. “I am sorry he's your brother. He's a jerk.” He laughed, “You’re not wrong. Don’t worry about it. I have heard worse trust me. Liam can be uncouth sometimes” Uncouth is putting it mildly. “Seriously, who insults someone within five minutes of meeting them?” He chuckled again. “You’ll get used to him. Or not. Either way, you hold your ground, and that’s more than most people manage on their first day.” I rolled my eyes. “Well, I’m not most people.” “That’s becoming pretty obvious,” he grinned. I turned my attention back to the kitchen, opening cabinets and checking the pantry. “I needed to take inventory. Make a list of things I’ll need while I’m here.” “Want some company?” he asked. “You’re still here?” “Yep. I don’t have much going on today. I actually came to annoy Liam. But I ended up meeting you instead.” I gave him a sideways glance. “Lucky me.” He smiled, unabashed. “So, how often are you going to be working here?” “Mondays and Fridays. Why?” He tapped his fingers on the island counter. “I’m shooting a music video soon. I think I just found my vixen.” I paused, eyebrows raised. “You gotta be kidding.” “Nope. As serious as a heart attack?” “Jason, I cook. I don’t do vixens.” “Ouch” he clutched his chest. “The first favor I asked from my new friend and she refused me” He gave me a fake wounded look, bottom lip poked out. I laughed. “Wow, you’re not playing fair” “Never have.” I sighed. “Fine. I’ll think about it. Here I was thinking I’ll be the one using you.” He leaned forward, eyes twinkling. “You’re still free to take advantage of me.” “You’re insufferable,” I said, shaking my head. “You have no idea.” He stood up, pulling out his phone. “I need to call my manager. I’ll be right back.” I watched him leave the kitchen and exhaled. What did I just agree to? Once I was done checking the inventory, he returned, a grin plastered on his face. He handed me his phone. “Type in your number.” I hesitated, then took the phone and entered it. I called myself so I’d have his number too, then handed it back. “Done.” “Perfect,” he said, slipping it into his pocket. I turned my focus back to the stove, chopping onions and prepping ingredients for dinner. Jason remained, sitting and watching me with mild fascination. “You don’t have anything better to do today?” I asked, glancing at him. “Nope. Today is for bothering Liam and watching you cook.” I smirked. “Well, mission accomplished.” He leaned back in his chair. “How old are you, by the way?” “Twenty-two. You?” “Twenty-six.” “So, Em…wait, can I call you that?” he asked “Yeah, sure” “Call me Jay,” I nodded “Tell me, when you are not helping your mom. What do you do?” “I am still in college. Culinary arts” “Hmm, nice. You know, I studied engineering, believe it or not.” That got my attention. I paused. “Seriously? You did?” “I know, I know. Everyone expects me to be some airhead singer. But yeah. Graduated with honors.” “That’s actually impressive. Famous and smart huh.” He shrugged. “You’d be surprised how many layers people have.” “You’re not wrong,” I admitted. He kept me company until I was done for the day. I packed up my things and glanced at the time. “Well, Jay, this was unexpected.” “In a good way, I hope?” I smiled. “Yeah. Surprisingly, yes.” His brown eyes followed me to the door. “Goodnight, Em,” he said, a playful glint in his gaze. “Get ready your summer is about to get lit.” I laughed softly, shaking my head. “We’ll see about that.” As I stepped out of the Black mansion, the warm evening breeze brushed against my skin. A strange flutter danced in my stomach. Maybe it was nerves. Maybe it was excitement. Whatever it was, I had a feeling this summer was about to change everything. Chapter 3 The moment I walked through the door, I didn’t bother taking off my shoes. I went straight to my room, threw my bag in a corner, and collapsed on my bed. I was knackered. Out of all the people in Los Angeles. Millions, by the way, it just had to be him who ended up as my new boss. Liam freaking Black. Of course, it couldn’t be Jay. Jay is kind, humble, and charming. There’s no arrogant celebrity air around him, no “I’m better than you” vibe. He’s easy to talk to, If only his arrogant brother could emulate him. I let out a sigh and shut my eyes. Sleep took me almost instantly. My phone’s ringtone dragged me out of my dreams. I groaned, blindly reaching for it on my nightstand. Lisa. I answered, voice raspy. “Hey, girly.” “How was your first day?” Her voice was bright, chirpy and far too energetic for how I was feeling. I rolled to the side. “It was okay. My new boss is a jerk. It is a pity that he is so handsome. Honestly, I wish he was old, bald, lonely and ugly.” She burst out laughing. I could picture her holding her tummy, in amusement. She always did that when something cracked her up. “How cute is he though?” she asked with curiosity. I groaned. “Painfully. You should see the man. He looks like he was sculpted by the gods. It’s unfair for one person to look that good.” She screamed loud enough to rupture my eardrum. I winced and removed the phone from my ear. “Jesus, Lisa!” “I can’t help it! I badly wanna be you right now. At least you are having a swell summer holiday. Meanwhile, I’m stuck here with these tiny demons, climbing all over me like I’m a seesaw.” That’s one of the things I love about her. Like me, she’s a family girl through and through. She flew to Florida to help her sister with the kids. The third baby was on the way, and she didn’t hesitate for a second before offering to help. “I remember how excited you were before leaving,” I teased, mimicking her voice. “I miss my babies so much. I can’t wait to see them!” She giggled. “I did miss them! They’re adorable on FaceTime. But now that I’m here, all I want is to lock myself in a room and pretend I don’t exist. They’re like cute mini-terrorists.” I laughed softly. “You’re so dramatic.” Her tone shifted to something more curious. “So, besides Mr. Greek God Boss, did anything else happen?” I paused for effect. “Spill it already Em!” I grinned. She is always impatient when it comes to gist. “I might have possibly agreed to be a video vixen for Jason Black, the singer.” She screams on the other end of the line.Damn it! Have mercy on my ears girl. I braced myself, already regretting this. “You did what?! That’s so freaking cool! You’re going to be in a music video with Jason Black! Girl, you are lucky! Do you know how many people would kill for that opportunity?” I remained silent. She picked up on it instantly. Her voice softened. “Wait, you’re not excited? What is the problem Em?” “I just don’t know if it is a good idea. It felt like a decision I made on impulse.” “Crap!” she snapped. “You’re stunning, Em. You’ll be amazing on camera. Plus, it’s Jason we’re talking about. It’ll be an adventure! Who knows this could be good for you?” I smiled faintly. “You are more excited than I am.” “Someone has to be! Okay, fine. I’ll let you go since you’re all moody and tired. But we’re talking more about this tomorrow.” “Bye.” I ended the call before she could launch into another one of her rants. Don’t get me wrong. I love her. She’s my best friend. But when she starts talking sometimes, she does not stop. And tonight? I don't have the energy to keep up. I forced myself out of bed and headed to the bathroom. After a quick shower, I fixed dinner. Chicken pasta. The nose blinding aroma filled the kitchen. Mom and I used to sit down for meals together, talking about everything and nothing. Gossip, work, what shows we were watching. There was always laughter. Now, the silence felt louder than ever. After eating, I cleaned up, and just as I was about to head back to my room, my phone buzzed. Jay: Hey, Vixen! Any plans for tomorrow? Me: Nope. Why? Jay: Wanna come to the studio with me? Me: Hmm. Depends. What’s in it for me? Jay: You get to see where the magic happens. And, you get to hang out with me. What could be better? Me: Not good enough. I’ll pass. Jay: Ouch. Harsh. Okay, name your price. I stared at the screen, amused. Then typed: Me: Offer me something I can’t say no to. His typing bubble appeared… then disappeared. Then reappeared. Then stopped again. I'm curious now. What the heck is he typing? Finally, his message came through: Jay: There’s this famous Italian chef in LA. You might’ve heard of him. His name starts with M and ends in O. My heart skipped. Me: Marco Russo? Jay: Bingo. I told him I might stop by tomorrow with a friend. Me: You're evil!. Jay: Haha I’m surrounded by business people. I learned from the best. So, Em… you in or out? Me: Ugh. Fine. You win. You got yourself a deal. Jay: Excellent choice. Now send me your address. I’ll pick you up at 9 a.m. I sent him my location, a grin stretching across my face. Marco Russo. In the culinary world, he’s what Beyoncé is to music. He only cooks for VIPs, A-listers, royalty, billionaires. And tomorrow, I get to meet him. Jay: Goodnight, Em. See you tomorrow. Me: Goodnight, Jay. Sleep tight. I dashed to my closet and started rummaging through it. I need to arrange my outfit for tomorrow. I know I’m acting like a kid promised a trip to Disneyland, but excuse me this is my Disneyland. I don’t know how I’ll sleep tonight. But one thing’s for sure… I can’t wait for tomorrow. Chapter 4 At exactly 9:00a.m., my phone buzzed. Jay: Outside. Come out, Vixen. I’d been up since six, way thrilled to sleep. I raced to the door, nerves and excitement tangling in my chest. Outside, a sleek black Range Rover parked on the street. Jay lowered the window and gave a small wave. “Hop in,” he said with a grin. He seems like a morning person. His face was bright and cheerful. I slipped into the passenger seat. “Morning,” I greeted both Jay and the driver, who looked more like a bodyguard than a chauffeur. Black suit, dark shades,a black ink tattoo ran down his shoulder. He gave a stiff nod and started the engine. The car goes into motion. I was bouncing my legs in excitement. Today is like Christmas coming early for me. He chuckled “You’re awfully giddy for someone who needed heavy bribery to be here.” I rolled my eyes. “Shut up before I change my mind .” “Please. We both know you wouldn’t dare,” he said, smirking. And damn it, he was right. If he bailed on me now, I’d genuinely cry. Not that he needed to know that. He’d never let me hear the end of it. The studio wasn’t far. We arrived within twenty minutes, and Jay guided us inside like he owned the place. Which, honestly, he probably did in some way. The air smelled like leather and polished wood. There are a bunch of recording equipment here. A microphone, audio interface, headphones, studio monitors and the rest I can't identify. “This is where magic happens,” he said dramatically. I smiled as he introduced me as his friend to the crew. That word warmed something in my chest. Jay vanished into the vocal booth, headphones on, fully in his element. I took a seat in the cozy waiting area, scrolling through my phone to kill time. Then, someone sat beside me. I glanced up and froze Mason Jacob. The Grammy-winning, chart-topping, sinfully good looking Mason Jacob. I once had a massive crush on him. This had to be a dream. I discreetly pinched my arm. “Ow!” He let out a hearty laugh, “Careful now. You’re not hallucinating.” I blinked. “Wait.. was that an accent?” He smiled, amused. “Yup. Grew up in London. Moved back here when I was nineteen. It slips out now and then.” God. His voice is smooth. I palmed my eyes. “Did I just say that out loud?” “You did. And it was adorable.” He leaned back. “I’m Mason, by the way.” “As if I didn’t know,” I muttered, embarrassed. “Emily.” “Emily” he tasted my name in his lips ”Pretty name for a beautiful lady” I blushed “So, what brings you here?” he asked, eyes scanning the studio. “I am here with Jay. More like he bribed me into coming with him” I snorted He raised a brow. “Jason Black” I clarified. He chuckled, “That makes sense. He always strikes a hard deal.” “You’re telling me.” Mason tilted his head. “Are you his girlfriend?” My eyes widened. “God, no. He’s just a friend.” Introducing myself as a friend is better than admitting to working for the egotistical brother.” “Hmm,” his hazel eyes lingering. “I see.” I was dying to ask what brought him here, but I didn't want to cross boundaries. I guess my face gave it away anyway. “I am here to see Jay. Finalizing details for my upcoming tour.” I tried not to squeal. “That’s so cool.” He paused, then looked me dead in the eye. “Wanna come?” Was that a trick question? “Hell yes!” I said, too fast. He laughed. “Noted. I’ll talk to Jay and get your number before I leave.” I watched him disappear down the hallway. Did that just happen? I quickly texted Lisa: Guess who I just met? I bet she will blow up my phone once she receives the text. She dislikes me when I do this. By 12:45, Jay emerged, all smiles, with Mason trailing behind him. My brain had been slowly melting in boredom. “Emily,” Mason said, stopping in front of me. “Almost forgot.” He handed me his phone, and I punched in my number. “Bye, beautiful,” he said with a wink. My cheeks flushed. I was still recovering when Jay leaned in with a mischievous smile . “Em Em.. Emily?” he said, tapping my cheek lightly. “I was right about you.” I blinked. “What are you even talking about?” He didn’t answer, rather he just wrapped a hand around my arm. “Come on, Vixen.You’re in for a long ride.” Outside, the serious driver was already waiting. He gave him the next destination. He typed on his phone, glanced my way and continued. There's mischief written all over his face. I shot him a suspicious look. “You’ve got a sparkle in your eye. What did you do?” He just smiled. After a 35-minute drive, the car pulled up in front of Marco Russo’s restaurant. The ambience is breathtaking, elegant and sophisticated. Soft lighting. Tables are well spaced to provide privacy. Crips linens, exquisite tableware and cutlery. Luxurious designs. The architecture screamed money. The reviews were honest, this place was jaw-droppingly beautiful. Jay walked in like he owned the place, clearly a regular. Perks of being rich and famous. I followed, eyes wide. And then, I saw him. At a reserved table, cool and composed, eyes on his phone, was Mr. Liam Black. My boss. The walking embodiment of bad moods and brooding stares. I froze. Jay? He was smiling. “You didn’t” I whispered. “Oh, but I did,” he whispered back, nudging me forward. Someone please give me a tangible reason why I shouldn't strangle him. And yet,I walked forward. Argh!!! Let the drama begin…. Chapter 5 Liam Black was the last person I imagined seeing at Marco Russo’s restaurant. His bratty attitude is the last thing I needed. I was already having an awesome day. He will just ruin it all. Yet there he was, sitting in his full glory, wearing a three piece navy blue suit and looking insanely attractive. Tapping furiously on his phone. Whoever that is at the other end, I kinda pity. He has this scowl on his face. He was pissed. Jay, grinned beside me. "Brother!" he announced cheerfully. He glanced up and noticed my presence. He inhaled a sharp breath, a muscle ticking on his jaw "If I remember correctly, you said you wanted to have lunch with me" his eyes held my gaze "You failed to mention we'd have company." Jay feigned innocence. "You know me. Must've slipped my mind." I shifted uncomfortably, feeling the weight of Liam's scrutiny. His eyes, sharp and assessing, lingered on me. “Hello Mr Liam” I greeted awkwardly with a polite smile. His attention went back to his phone. He didn't acknowledge my greetings. Gosh Can we skip this lunch? Wait no! That means I won't meet Marcus. I will just ignore him. He can't ruin this for me. Jay pulled out a chair for me. "Come on, Em Sit, let's have lunch. Ignore him" he whispered the last part in my ear. Reluctantly, I took the seat between the two brothers. The tension was palpable, a silent battle of wills playing out over crisp linen and polished silverware. Moments later, Marcus, with his salt and pepper hair, approached our table. A warm smile on his face.He wore a chef’s jacket embroidered with a gold M.R His presence was commanding, yet inviting. "Gentlemen, Miss," he greeted us with a slight bow. "Welcome" Jay's face lit up. "Marcus! my Man” he stood and gave him a side hug. “Emily, meet Marcus Russo. The best in town" My heart skipped a beat. Marcus Russo, the culinary genius I'd admired from afar, was standing before me. "It's an honor meeting you," I managed, extending my hand. He took it gently. "The pleasure is mine, Emily. Jay said something about culinary arts" I shot Jay a surprised glance, he winked. Okay, I forgive him for this stunt he pulled today. “Yes. I would be rounding up in a year” “That's good. You are free to contact me whenever you need my help. Any friend of the Black’s is a friend” he stated with a gracious smile Holy cow I was restraining myself from squealing. Did Marcus Russo just give me free access to him? “Thank you so much. You're far too kind” Liam cleared his throat. Argh!! This man. Of course he would interrupt now. He finally found his voice. I mentally rolled my eyes. Sadist. "Marcus, we will trust your judgement as always." He nodded. "I'll have your courses out shortly." As he left, I couldn't contain my excitement. "I can't believe I just met Marcus Russo!. Thank you so much Jay. I appreciate this." Liam snorted. "He is just a guy. Stop being overly dramatic." If I murder this guy won't it be cruel if they send me to jail? What An obnoxious fellow. "You don't get to decide what he is to me.I don't remember asking for your opinion" I glared at him. “It's actually better when your mouths are shut” I muttered under my breath. Jay chuckled. "Don't mind him, Em. He's just jealous. He desperately wanna be Marcus right now" He shot his brother a glare. "Quit talking rubbish. You know I don't give a shit." “You don't get to decide for the rest of us” I counter Our appetizers arrived, a delicate arrangement of flavors and colors. I took a bite, savoring the explosion of taste. "This is incredible," I murmured. Liam smirked. "Like you were expecting less." I met his gaze, determined not to let him intimidate me. "Jeez, can you pretend like I am not here?." Jay leaned back, a satisfied smile on his face. "Isn't this fun? Good food, great company. What more can I ask for?" Liam’s expression remained stoic. The main course arrived, each dish more exquisite than the last. Despite the underlying tension, I couldn't help but be swept up in the culinary experience. As dessert was served, a decadent chocolate creation, Marcus returned to our table. "I hope everything met your expectations," he said. Jay raised his glass. "Exceeded them, as always." I nodded enthusiastically. "Truly unforgettable." Marcus smiled. "I'm glad. Enjoy the rest of your evening. "When he left, I turned to Jay. "I know I sound like a broken record right but thank you really. It was amazing." He grinned. "Anything for you, Vixen." “This will be a perfect place for a date don't you think Em?” He asked “Yeah, I guess” “Do you have a boyfriend” Why do I feel like this more of a trap than a question. What's Jay up to again? “No I answered” “Do you believe in love” I paused. I didn't expect that question. I can feel Liam's eyes on me. “Sure. Love is a Beautiful thing. Better experience with the right person” Liam snorted “Rubbish. That is what they all say like they mean it.” “Well, with a smelly attitude like yours, I bet no one will put up with you for long” I fired back “Oopsie,” Jay said, casually drinking from his glass. I observe as Liam's demeanor changes. A dark look brewing in his eyes. I must have struck a nerve. He stood, adjusting his jacket. "If you'll excuse me." Jay raised an eyebrow. "Leaving so soon?" His gaze lingered on me. "You know I am a busy man." Without another word, he left. I sighed, the weight of the encounter settling over me. Jay reached across the table, squeezing my hand. "Don't let him get to you. He's a great guy when he's not putting up the façade." I offered a small smile. "I'll try." As we finished our dessert, the atmosphere lightened. Despite the earlier tension, the evening had been a memorable one. He leaned in, his eyes twinkling. "So, ready for our next adventure?" I laughed, the sound easing the last of my nerves. "Like I have a say in whatever you are plotting." As we left the restaurant, the night air was cool and refreshing. I glanced back at the building, a sense of anticipation bubbling within me. Whatever lay ahead, I was ready. Chapter 6 The morning sunlight streamed through the curtains. Warm, intrusive, and far too enthusiastic for how I felt. I stirred under the covers, my head foggy but my heart strangely full. Yesterday felt like a dream. Marcus Russo’s restaurant. That unforgettable meal. Mason. Was that even real? I stretched lazily, a slow smile tugging at my lips. Reaching for my phone, I scrolled through messages, half expecting it all to disappear like some figment of my imagination. But then, a new message flashed across my screen. Unknown number. Mason: Hey Emily, hope you’re doing great this morning? Would you be interested in grabbing lunch with me? Nothing fancy, just a friendly hangout. Do tell if you’re free.” I blinked. My heart did a quite little somersault. I pretended not to notice. I saved his number before my brain could debate it. It was just lunch. Nothing serious. No need to overthink it right? Still, I hesitated. Fingers hovered above the screen. Accept? Decline? Before I could decide, my phone rang. Lisa. I sighed and picked up. If I didn’t, she’d just keep calling. “Hello?” “Em!” Her voice burst through, loud and radiant. “ Give me the rundown on yesterday.” I laughed, sitting upright. “Oh, it was amazing.” “Spill. Everything. Who did you meet?” “Slow down,” I teased. “I met Marcus Russo.” Lisa shrieked. “Marcus freaking Russo?! No way!” “It was surreal,” I admitted. “I had the best meal of my life in his restaurant” “Wait a second.” Her voice dropped, low and sharp “Who took you there?” “Jay. Liam was there as well,” I said, leaning against my pillows. “He was his usual self, annoying and rude.” “Ugh, men,” she huffed. “Ignore him. You’re living a dream. Focus on that.” “I don’t know what his problem is with me,” I groaned. “From the moment he saw me he has been on attack mode. He’s got this weird way of acting, it’s like I personally offended him.” I paused, chewing my bottom lip. “I met Mason Jacobs at the studio.” I said in a rush. “He texted now, asking if I was free to hangout. I don't know if I should.” Dead silence. “You WHAT?! Emily!,” she screamed. “You’re officially the queen of casual encounters.” “I don’t want to seem like some overexcited fangirl,” I said, my voice low and uncertain. “Then don’t. Be yourself. You’re amazing. And he texted you, remember?” I sighed, her words were starting to plant a seed. “ I’ll think about it.” “You better. Call me after, I want the full tea. I'll be living vicariously through you.” Laughing, I ended the call and stared at Mason’s message again. It didn’t seem like a big deal. Just lunch. Before I could change my mind, I typed: Me: Good morning. Lunch sounds perfect. Where are we going? His reply was instant. Like he was waiting for my message. Mason: One of my favorite places. Quiet, cozy, exclusive. You’ll love it. I’ll pick you up at 12? Me: Alright, see you soon. I texted him my address and jumped out of bed, fully awake. I decided to keep things casual. I slipped into a fitted beige T-shirt paired with high-waist denim jeans and a crips white sneaker. Just a swipe of red lipstick for confidence. My hair pulled into a messy bun, and I was ready. At exactly noon, Mason pulled up in a sleek black Mercedes. He stepped out, looking effortlessly stylish in a white shirt and dark jeans. Sunglasses. His hair was slightly tousled, like he’d run his fingers through it on the way over. The faint scent of wood and cedar lingered in the air as he leaned in for a casual side hug. "Emily," he said warmly. "You look stunning." "Thank you. You look good, like always," I said, sliding into the passenger seat. “You drive yourself,?” I asked, genuinely surprised. People with his level of fame and fortune rarely got behind the wheel. He grinned. “Yeah, sometimes. It helps me clear my head. The drive was smooth, filled with soft music and light conversation. He was funny and surprisingly easy to talk to. For a minute, I forgot how famous he was. The restaurant was a beautiful blend of vintage and modern elegance. Marble floors and warm lighting. The walls were decorated with black and white photos in sleek dark wood frames. Mason led me to a corner table beside the window, offering a quite view of the street outside. The host greeted him with familiarity. "You really like it here, don't you?" I teased. He grinned. "Guilty." I ordered for grilled chicken sandwich. He went with steak and roasted veggies. A bottle of wine and sparkling water for us. "So," I said, between sips of water. "Tell me a secret” He cocked his head, a playful smirk tugging at his lips. "I hate horror movies." I burst out laughing. "Seriously? The super star is afraid of the dark and ghosts? I feel like I should update your fans of this new discovery" "Hey," he chuckled, "I said hate. I didn't say afraid. Huge difference.” I was about to respond when something shifted in the air. I can feel someone’s gaze. Mason gaze flickered over my shoulder. "Why is Liam Black looking at you like that?" My stomach flipped. "What” He leaned back casually, taking a sip from the glass of water. "Over your right shoulder. Two tables down. Dark gray suit. Brooding, like you just ran over his dog." I turned, slow and subtle. There he was. Liam Black. Sitting across from a man in an expensive black suit. His jaw clenched, fingers wrapped around an untouched drink. His eyes locked on mine, sharp and unwavering. My throat tightened. What was he doing here? Of all places he had to be here. He raised a brow. "Friend of yours?" "Boss," I said quietly, turning back to face Mason. "Technically." "Interesting," he said, swirling his drink. "There's a possesive edge to his expression. He looks territorial." "He’s not," I replied too quickly. He smirked. "Emily, I know that look. He is either deeply confused or deeply annoyed. Possibly both." I didn’t respond. My heart was beating erratically. Why did it feel like I’d been caught doing something wrong? "Ignore him," he said with an easy grin. "I’m the one lucky enough to be in the company of a stunning lady.” I managed a laugh. But my palms had gone sweaty, and suddenly, the food lost its flavor. I could still feel the weight of Liam's gaze lingering on me. Mason sensed the tension and shifted the mood effortlessly. He told a story about an embarrassing wardrobe malfunction during a live performance in Canada. I laughed, genuinely this time. But when I dared to glance again, he was still watching. What was that look? Irritation? Disapproval? Why did it matter so much? When the check arrived, Mason paid without hesitation, then stood and offered me his hand. "Shall we?" As we walked past Liam’s table, I caught the flicker of movement. He stood up abruptly, startling his companion. He said something too low to hear. "Emily." His voice. Low and controlled. Mason stopped beside me. Liam took a single step forward. "A word, please." I nodded, unsure of what else to do. “Can you come over tomorrow? I need tospeak to you.” “Okay,” I said, confused. He gave a curt tilt of his head and turned back toward his table. He slipped into his seat with the same composed elegance, as if nothing had happened. I stood there for a moment, blinking. That was it? Confusion swirled in my chest. What could possibly be so urgent that it couldn't wait. Why pull me aside in the middle of lunch? I glanced back at him. He was already engaged in light conversation. I hated that he could unravel me like this Back in the car, I didn’t speak. I kept glancing at the restaurant behind us, heart unsettled. I was now stuck wondering what Liam Black wanted.