With My Breath (Lose My Breath #1)

CHAPTER TWO

“You did what!”

Tess squeals.

I shift my eyes nervously around at the other people in the gym, hoping that no one is listening in on our conversation.

Raindrops splatter against the surrounding windows as I tell Tess all about my wanton behavior.

Our legs jog us along the treadmill; I figured I would steal a workout before returning home to Alex, who probably hasn’t cleaned the house or made dinner anyway.

“I know, it’s slutty, but I’m telling you, girl, it was the best orgasm- well, the only orgasm a man has ever given me, now that I think about it.”

I glance over at Tess as a smile stretches her lips from ear to ear before returning my gaze out the window and mentally reliving the rendezvous of my interview.

I don’t dare ask myself if he interviews all of his assistants the same. After all, I am a married woman, and what I just allowed to happen makes me no better than him.

“I probably shouldn’t take the job.”

I grit with the grind of my teeth.

“What girl? Hell no, you are taking that job because if you don’t, your kids will be on the street.”

Tess is correct; we are months behind on the mortgage, which means the bank can seize our house any day now. And if that happens, we will be forced to move back to Texas and live with Alex’s mom, who hates my ass.

“I just feel so bad about cheating,”

I say as I finish up on the treadmill.

Istep off and grab a towel, wiping away the sweat as Tess ends her run simultaneously.

“Jasmine, how many times has Alex cheated on you?”

My eyes plummet to my pink Nikes as I remember the time I walked in on Alex with a woman while I was nine months pregnant with Kaiden. “Twice,”

I murmur while lifting my gaze to Tess.

My best friend perches her lips as anger slides across her face. “Twice that you know of Jas. Besides, you and Alex are legally separated. So, it really isn’t cheating.”

I watch as Tess gathers her gym bag, her brown curly hair dripping with sweat. “I need to get a shower. Come with.”

She demands.

I pick up my pink gym bag and follow my best friend to the bathroom. Within seconds, Tess and I are undressed and showering in stalls adjacent to one another.

“I promised I would work things out with Alex before moving on to someone else.”

I bellow, my voice reaching across the shower water.

“Why should you extend him such courtesy? He didn’t care about you all those times he cheated on you. Besides, the two of you are legally separated. Which means you don’t owe him anything, Jas.”There’s resentment in Tess’s voice, and I know she’s hurting all over again for me.

I reflect on the times I called my best friend, balling my eyes out, asking her to allow the kids and me to stay a few nights whenever Alex and I were fighting. I have known Tess for six years; she is the first person I have met in Seattle, at this very gym, to be precise. I know she cares for me, and I am so grateful for all the times she has been there whenever I needed her to be.

The showers stop, and Tess and I find ourselves in front of the dainty mirrors, applying our foundation.

I observe as Tess rolls the makeup sponge across her round caramel face, her thick body filling in a rose-colored dress as she slips it on.

“Another date?”

I ask as my best friend applies her false lashes.

Tess’s eyes slip my way, the corner of her full lips lifting in a smirk. And immediately, I know the answer is yes.

“Girl, he’s tall, chocolate, successful, and fine as hell.”

She brags as she places her makeup bag in her purse.

Tess has always had good luck with black men. Her voluminous curves, thin waist, and double Ds make her the perfect video vixen., something my petite frame could never compete with.

I’m short and weigh no more than one hundred and fifteen pounds. At the same time, Tess is tall and has an ample backside and a curvy figure.

“Well, I wish you all the luck,”

I say as I adjust my pale dress onto my body.

Tess and I snatch one last look at our reflections in the mirror before departing the gym bathroom.

“How much do you know about Mr. Slate?”

I ask, realizing I know absolutely nothing about the enigmatic billionaire.

The rain splashes us as we exit the gym and enter the deluge, our feet hurrying us to her silver ride as we both hurl inside.

“Woah,”

I say while tossing my gym bag in the back seat.

Tess throws her gym bag in the back next to mine and starts the car, her body quivering as she cranks the heat.

“Thanks for driving me home, Tess.”

“No problem, girl, and regarding your question, I only know just as much as everyone else. He’s a billionaire who comes from several generations of wealth, and Slate Enterprises oversees multiple businesses around the world.”

Tess starts the car, and I pull out my phone to search for the owner of Slate Enterprises. Sure enough, Slate pulls up, but not the one I know.

Balthazar Slate is survived by his wife, Cecil Slate, and two children, Allison, and Casimir Slate.

Casimir Slate takes over the multibillion-dollar Slate empire after the unexpected death of his father.

I scroll down to view the photos of the Slates. Bronze hair sways from the head of a tall, slender, pale woman, and standing next to her is the current owner of Slate Enterprises. Casimir Slate, wearing a sleek black suit and tie with an enigmatic expression, is painted on his face as his pocket holds his left hand. But not one photo of the mother.

I read on as I discover as much information as possible about the CEO I may be working for. Photos of him at business functions and charity events blotch the internet, but one photo catches my eye.

Casimir Slate breaks off engagement with model and heiress Tiana Ricci.

A photo of Casimir and Tiana standing aboard a yacht wearing all-white scrolls before me; her dark hair is thick and lustrous as it drifts to her butt in buttery waves. Her tan skin highlights her tiny, delicate face as her green eyes stare back at me.

“She’s beautiful,”

I mumble while placing the phone back in my purse.

“Who’s beautiful?”

Tess asks as the car comes to a stop.

“Casimir, Mr. Slates ex-fiancé. I googled him, and all these photos pulled up regarding him. One is a photo of Casimir and ex-fiancé supermodel Tiana Ricci. Why would a man call things off with someone so perfect?”

I ask, unintentionally comparing myself to the heiress.

A sigh breaks through Tess’s lips as she turns to look at me. “Look, Jas. Don’t overthink this job; just take it. Make the best of it so that you can save enough money for you and your kids.”

Tess is correct; why am I comparing myself to Slate’s past lovers? I need this job to save my house, not to embark on a new relationship.

I cast my gaze out the window. The beautiful brick colonial two-story house with a white picket fence twists my heart in a knot as I stare at it.

“The American dream,”

I mumble as I unbuckle my seat belt.

“Thanks, Tess.”

“No problem, girl. Anytime.”

I lean in and hug my best friend, mentally preparing myself for whatever hellfire may occur upon entering my home.

Tess waves bye before taking off, and I scrimmage betwixt the rain to the front door, stumbling immediately on toys, clothes, and dishes scattered across the hall entry.

Stepping quickly out of my high heels, I maunder through the house, picking up every bit of clothing, toy, and dish I see. The balls of my feet rub against the wood vinyl floors as I make my way to the kitchen. In the next room, I can hear Alex squabbling with his online friends as he plays video games.

“Perfect.”

I snap while placing the retrieved dishes in the already-packed kitchen sink.

“Did you get the milk and eggs?”

I rear around to find Alex extending his head around the corner, the wheels to his game chair scratching the vinyl floors as he rolls into the hallway near the kitchen.

“Must’ve slipped my mind when I left the job interview.Please tell me you prepared dinner?”

I drag my eyes across my husband’s red pajama pants and black Star Wars shirt. Seriously, he didn’t even bathe or change clothes?

A huff breaks from Alex’s chest as he rolls back into his game room.

“Fucking useless, that woman doesn’t do anything right.”

My husband mumbles, his friends laughing at his remark as they return to gaming.

At the risk of starting an argument, I stomp into the game room, my knuckles white and my pulse beating frantically.

“Excuse me?”

The words scream from my mouth, snatching Alex from the gaming chair as he rips the headphones from his ears.

I furrow my brows, both of my fists pumped and blood boiling.

“You know better than to disturb me during my downtime.”

My husband barks, his voice hoarse and deep.

“That’s just it!”

I begin. “You’ve had downtime for the last six months, and the past three months have been the worst. You don’t even get dressed anymore, and you haven’t showered in a week. You don’t help with the kids, and the house looks like a tornado every time I return home.”

“Well, maybe you need to do a better job at being a woman.”

Alex storms past me and into the kitchen.

My feet, seemingly on their own accord, drive me into the kitchen behind him.

Food boxes implode onto the floors as Alex rips open every cabinet and tosses items out as if he is looking for something.

“What are you doing?”

I ask, hurrying to pick up the boxes as he drops them.

“What does it look like? I’m hungry, and since you won’t be making dinner. I will find something to eat myself.”

“Alex, stop!”

I yell, my voice rocky as I ram through the rampant beating of my heart. “Can’t you see that I’m trying to save our house, Alex! Why are you being this way?”

My husband pauses while staring into the open fridge like his mind has ventured far away.

“I got the job, which means I’ll need your help with the kids and the basic household chores,”

I say more calmly as I place the food boxes onto the granite countertop.

Alex whips around, fury in his dark eyes as he nears me. His throat works, but for a moment, nothing comes out, and I brace myself for whatever reply he may have.

“I’m supposed to be the man of the house. The provider is the one who pays the bills, but since getting fired, my ex-boss has blackballed me, making it impossible for me to get a job in this city or anywhere else.”

I still don’t know what occurred at my husband’s job. He won’t speak about it. He came home one afternoon and said he was done for. That his boss fired him. That was it. Nothing more, and I didn’t want to pressure him because our fights can be very bad.

“Now you want me to just adhere to the household duties like some woman.”

Alex’s voice is low but deep, and his eyes refuse to meet mine as I approach him.

“Alex, this is life. Sometimes, things happen unexpectedly, but we humans must learn to make the best of it. You will not be out of work forever.”

Will he, though?

“ All that matters now is that I have acquired a job that will hopefully pay enough to save the house.”

I move my hand towards him and allow my fingers to rub encouragingly across his arm; his big brown eyes latch to mine as they soften with understanding.

“Mama, mama, mama! Look what I made in class!”

Rearing around, I see Kaiden soaked, holding a piece of paper in the air. The rain has warped the artwork into some kind of horrendous display.

“Woah, what happened?”

Kaiden asks as he eyes all the food contents across the kitchen floor.

“Oh baby, this is so nice.”

I praise as I leap towards my son and grab the artwork from his fingertips.

“Thanks, mama.”

Kaiden leans in and kisses me as the nanny strolls in the kitchen.

Worry springs from Charlotte’s eyes, her wet hair clinging to the sides of her pale face as she gives me Layla.

“Mama,”

Layla cries, still learning her first words.

“Is everything ok, Mrs. Navarro?”

Charlotte questions while attempting to pick up the food.

I kiss Layla, and receding footsteps notify me that my husband has returned to his game room. Which means I’m left with cleaning the entire house and preparing dinner.

“Yes, everything is fine, Charlotte. Would you mind taking the kids to their room and getting them changed while I clean up and prepare dinner?”

“Of course.”

“Such a lifesaver. What would I ever do without you?”

I sigh as I begin cleaning the kitchen.

Two hours later, I have cleaned the entire house, completed the laundry, and prepared lasagna for dinner. The clouds have parted in the skies, allowing for the moon to shine its white light through our square windows.

An aching pain shoots from my feet and up to my chest from my overworked day. I take one last look at Alex and the kids, who are eating dinner in front of the living room TV, before making my way upstairs.

Once in my room, I check my phone for any missed calls from Slate Enterprises. But I have nothing. I sigh and pull off my dress, grabbing a towel out of the hall closet before hopping in the shower.

The water runs hot down my back as I allow it to wash away all the anxiety and stress from the day. Alex and I had another fight, and I was left cleaning up the mess. How long before we have another fight and another? I have chosen to stay and give him another chance even after filing for a separation, but I’m starting to feel like staying is a huge mistake.

After attempting to drown away my anxiety in hot water, I step out of the shower, turn the water off, and dry my body.

Ding. The notification catches me off guard, and within a second, I’m back in my bedroom, checking my phone.

A text from a restricted number pops up.

Unknown: I have emailed you the contract. Please read over it and have it signed and emailed to me by the night's end. -Slate :

The end of the night? It’s already seven, and he just sent the contract over. A huff drags from my chest as I wrap the towel tighter around me before crossing over to the desk and retrieving Alex’s laptop.

I scallop over to our rugged queen-size bed. My partially wet body dampens the suede blanket as I drop down. I am both nervous and trepidatious. After what occurred today at Slate Enterprise, what exactly will this contract entail? What position has Mr. Slate opted to give me?

I open the laptop, key in the passcode, and stretch my head towards the bedroom door, making sure Alex isn’t on his way in.

Convinced that I am alone, I slide my tongue along my bottom lip as I go to my email and pull up the contract.

My eyes move quickly across the contract, and I hope to get it signed and sent back to Mr. Slate before he changes his mind.

To my surprise, there is nothing sexual in the contract. It’s a contract that is renewable every twelve months. The pay is thirty-five hundred weekly with a six-month bonus of fifty thousand dollars if I’m still employed by then. Slate Enterprises will provide me with a two-week vacation contingent upon Mr. Slate’s needs and rides.

I squeal in excitement as I continue to read the contract. Thirty-five hundred every week is more than enough to pay the mortgage, bills, and the children’s private school. The fifty grand can be used to pay off my student loans—God knows I have a lot of them.

The contract states that I am to adhere to all of Mr. Slate’s needs, whatever he wants, whenever he wants. Breach of the contract states that if I am ever unavailable for whatever reason, Mr. Slate has the right to void the contract, and I will lose employment.

This means ensuring that your children and husband are always taken care of. This job is demanding and may require you to be out of the state for several days at a time.

I gulp at the clause, the ball of air ramming down my throat as I swallow the words in black and white.

Being a mom is complicated, and sometimes unexpected things happen.

“What do I do? What do I do?”

I ask myself while fidgeting with my phone.

I glance around the room. Pomelo and cerise flames dance along the navy-blue wallpaper from the lit fireplace, and the stars coruscate its light unto my deep skin through the open window.

“Negotiate,”

I announce as I flip the phone. But Slate wants the contract by tonight, and I’m sure Slate Enterprises is closed. So, I dial the following best number.

“Hey girl, you won’t believe this. I’m letting Marcus take me home tonight. He has been such a gentleman. I think he has earned the right to hit it.”

Tess’s words echo through the phone, and though I have a lot to say about her statement, I have more pressing matters to deal with.

“I’m glad things are going well, and believe me, we will continue this conversation later, but I was calling to tell you that I got the job.”

“I knew you would snag it.”

Tess cheers.

“I received the contract, and while the pay is good. I have a few concerns about the clause.”

“Ok, what’s on your mind?”

Tess’s tone switches to a more severe tenor, which lets me know that I have her full attention. I dive right into the details and expel a deep breath once I’ve gotten everything out.

“Definitely bring that up to him. You don’t want to lose your job because of a family accident. Who is this guy even? Nonetheless, I have a number you can call that may be able to connect you with Mr. Slate.”

“Thanks so much, Tess. You are a lifesaver.”

I write down the number Tess gives me. We say our goodbyes, and I am on the line with one of the Coos of Slate Enterprises, who gladly transfers me through to Slate’s cell.

“Yes.”

Slate answers the phone with a statement rather than a question, and the deep tenor of his voice hammers my heart and my chest.

I take a deep swallow before speaking. I try to force my mouth to move, but for some reason, my throat won’t work.

Slate barrels out a deep breath, and I can sense his impatience through the phone. Or perhaps it’s anticipation for what I’m about to say. Either way, I need to say something soon, or I may find myself out of a job.

“Um, Mr.- Mr. Slate. It’s Jasmine NaVorro.”

My voice rattles with nervousness.

“I know who you are. Please call me Casimir.”

Casimir’s voice is raspy and low, but it allows me to relax a bit. I trudge through my anxiety as I explain to him my concerns regarding the contract.

“As mentioned at the beginning of our conversation, if something were to occur where my husband or nanny isn’t available, I would have to handle the situation myself. If that will be a problem, then this may not be the right job for me.”

Regret ices through my veins the moment the words slip from between my lips, and I fasten my gaze on the pirouetting flames of the fireplace while awaiting his response.

Silence looms from the phone for what seems like forever, but I’m sure it is only a few moments.

“I need to know you will be here for me when I need you to be. I need to be your priority every second of the day.”

Casimir’s words slice through my ear as raw need sounds in his throat.

“Is this man being serious?”

I mutter to myself while holding the phone away from my ear. I am not sure why I’m questioning his forwardness. Because, even as he speaks, the bottom of my belly curls with desire.

“I will be there for you whenever you need me to be. I am only a phone call away.”

For some unknown reason saying the words pool my pussy, and I find myself wet with lust as my clit throbs. A deep moan rings through the phone, and I bite my bottom lip as my body shudders. Suddenly, Casimir fingering me in his office has my body fervid with heat.

“That means for the duration of this contract, you are mine, and you belong to me.”

The claim rises in my soul like an epiphany waiting to explode. What does he mean by that? But I won’t dare ask, especially since he’s reconsidering the clause in the contract.

“Say it,”

Casimir demands, his words catching me off guard.

“Say what?”

I whisper, my body trembling.

“I want to hear you say it. Tell me you’re mine and mine alone.”

I choke back a swig as the declaration escapes me. “I’m yours. I belong only to you.”

Another moan pulls through the phone, and suddenly I find myself getting even wetter as unexpected images of Casimir fucking me senseless rummage in my mind.

“What are you wearing?”

He rasps, his voice even lower than before.

Another swallow works my throat as I look down at the red towel wrapped around my body. “I-I’m wearing a towel. I just got out of the shower.”

“So, fucking hot.”

He murmurs as the sound of a zipper fades through the phone.

“What are you doing?”

I ask even though I already know the answer.

“What do you think? I am going to make myself cum to the thought of fucking you. I’ve never had a black girl before, but you tasted delicious today, which makes me want more.”

He murmurs.

My body crashes back onto the bed, the towel covering half my body as I move my hands down to my pussy.

“Are you touching yourself?”

He moans, his breathing heavy and intense.

“Yes, I want you to make me come again.”

I cry as my fingers play with my clit.

On a bowed back, I shove my fingers in and out of my soaked pussy in correlation with the strokes Casimir is giving his dick, my walls pulsing as I imagine his stiff shaft slipping inside me.

“Mm Jasmine, I want you now more than ever. I want that tight pussy clinging to my cock. I want your sexy voice dripping in my ears while I’m making you cum.”

I let out a moan as the poisonous words leave Casimir’s mouth, and he returns a loud moan of his own. One so gratifying it is nearly enough to tip me over the edge.

“I want- I need you inside of me. I need you to touch me. I need you to fill me up and please me.”

My words are like lilies in the summer, swaying in the sunlight to his every need.

Casimir gasps, and my clit throbs, my pussy clutching my fingers as I thrust them in and out while massaging my clitoris.

“OH.”

I cry out as my body climbs the mountain.

“That’s right, come for me, baby. Come to the thought of me inside of that tiny wet pussy.”

The moan drags from my lips, and I cum hard, liquid gushing out of my pussy, as I listen to Casimir reach his peak and explode.

“God, yes. I can’t wait to feel your beautiful pussy, Jasmine. I’ll have the contract revised and sent to you first thing in the morning. Be at work at seven am with my coffee.” Click.

The phone hangs up, and I’m trembling from the explosive orgasm I just gave myself. My mind is at a loss for words. What did I just do? Did I just have phone sex with my new boss and agree to sleep with him whenever he pleases? God, Jas, you’re losing it.

I rise from the bed, trampling to my drawer and fishing out my nightgown. Warm hands cup the bottom of my ass, startling me around.

“Alex.”

I croak. “I didn’t hear you come in.”

I voice unsteadily.

I’m not sure how long Alex was outside the door or how much he heard, which explains the sudden palpating of my heart as he leans into me. Need drips from his brown hues as his hands continue to skim my body.

I shiver at his touch, my teeth clawing into my bottom lip as he kisses down my neck and to my breasts.

“Alex, I- I can’t,”

I say while pushing him away.

Rage reaches across Alex’s face as he steps back. “What the fuck, Jasmine? It’s been months since we fucked. I’m a man, and I have needs.”

He roars, his fingers threading through the strands of his dark hair.

“I know, Alex, but when I agreed to give you another chance, I told you that I would not know when I would want to dive back into sex again, and needless to say, you agreed.”

A huff carries from Alex as he waves me silent. “Charlotte has gone home. She already put the kids to bed. I will sleep downstairs.”

No doubt to look at porn and masturbate, but who am I to judge. I literally just had phone sex with my new boss, who I let finger fuck me earlier today.

Alex strips through the door before I have the chance to say good night.

I make my way to the bed while reliving the amazing orgasm I just gave myself at the thought of a beautiful man wanting me.

You belong to me and only me . Slate’s words parrot in the front of my mind as I lay here going to sleep. How can someone so beautiful, so successful, so gorgeous want someone like me? I don’t doubt my beauty one bit, and my being married has never stopped a man from pursuing me. But the fact that I have two children is when most men run.

Casimir had chosen the latter, so what changed his mind? Either way, I will not allow myself to wander off into something negative. A miracle just occurred. I received one of the most sought-after jobs in Seattle, and now I have the funds to save my house, and right now, that’s all that matters.

Bright rays of light bleed through my eyelids, unexpectedly waking me. I sit up in my bed, my hands massaging my eyes as I look out the window. Blue flames fill the sky, and the sun is lifted high and vibrant. “Today is going to be a beautiful day,”

I predict while dragging the blanket from atop me.

“Mama, mama Charlie made breakfast.”

Kaiden rallies while running into my room and lunging his body on top of mine.

“She did! I bet they are delicious.”

I swing my arms around my son, bringing his tiny body to mine as I plant kisses across his face.

Charlotte walks in carrying Layla, whose little arms are reaching out for me.

“Good morning, Charlotte. Thanks so much for making breakfast.”

“No problem Mrs. NaVorro.”

“Please, Charlotte, call me Jasmine.”

I remind while freeing Layla from Charlotte’s grasp.

The kids are bathed and dressed, and once again, I am forever grateful for Charlotte’s assistance.

I kiss Layla while standing up from the bed and making my way to the closet with Charlotte and Kaiden not far behind.

“Charlotte, I must say how grateful I am to have you a part of my life.”

Twisting around, I meet Charlotte’s gaze as I toss Layla playfully into my arms.

“I know we haven’t paid you in over a month, but I have good news. Today, I will not only pay you for the month we missed, but I will provide you with a bonus as well.”

“It’s ok, Mrs. Nav- Jasmine. You don’t have to do that.”

I wave Charlotte silent, my tonsils tugging as I speak. “I must, and I will. Now, take the kids downstairs to eat while I get dressed.”

A smile edges the corner of Charlotte’s lips as I shuffle Layla into her arm. She stretches her hand, and Kaiden takes it. My son is cheering as they make their way out of the room.

“Are you ready for some blueberry pancakes?”

Charlotte cheers in her Elmo voice.

“I’m starving!”

Kaiden yells while giving me a laugh.

Anxiety riddles through me like a bolt of electricity as I skate into my closet and search for something to wear. I haven’t discussed pay dates with Casimir yet, but I figure I will ask him for an advance when I get to work. That way, I can pay Charlotte and the mortgage. I’m sure he won’t mind; the man makes billions.

I don’t have any business clothes, which isn’t a shock. So, what can I wear that’s appropriate for work? The question rings silently in the back of my mind as I tap the bottom of my chin.

I scan my large walk-in closet. Several bodycon dresses sway from the black velvet hangers, as do a few miniskirts, crop tops, and distressed jeans. A suede black fitted dress pops out at me, and I grab it instantly. I slip out of my nightgown and take the mini dress across my body; it has underpinnings, so I don’t need a bra.

The dress hugs me tight, accentuating my round ass and slim waist while lifting my boobs. At least the black will bring out my deep maroon hair . I think to myself as I make my way to the bathroom to apply my makeup.

Half an hour later, I emerge from the bathroom with maroon curls spiraling down one shoulder. I wear my natural everyday makeup to complete the look.

I slide into a pair of four-inch black heels; I don’t want to risk looking like a hooker and retrieve a mauve suit jacket from my closet just before hurrying down the stairs.

The kids have finished eating, and Charlotte is heading out the door with the duo. I put kisses on their heads and waved them off into the hallway.

Immediately, I rush into the kitchen to grab a bite to eat. Alex is sprawled out on the living room couch, knocked out, and not planning on looking for work once again.

I retrieve bottled water and Greek yogurt from the fridge and head out through the front door. “One of us must bring in money,”

I say as I lock up.

Rearing around, I find a luxurious Bentley parked in the driveway with a bald white man dressed in all black standing outside.

“Jasmine?”

The man asks as I approach the vehicle, his voice flooded thick with a German accent.

“Yes,”

I reply as my eyes scan the pristine black exterior and brass wheels of the car.

“I’m Don, your driver.”

Don opens the back door, and scarlet and gold seats welcome me as I slide inside the car.

The smooth leather warms my thighs as I shimmy further in. The driver shuts the door behind me, and instantly, I admire the refined exterior of the customized Bentley. The heated seats massage my back as I recline and clock in my seatbelt.

The morning news is visible on the flat screen in front of me, and scarlet and gold contrive the interior of the Bentley. The windows of the ride are darker than any windows I’ve ever seen on a car.

Don slides into the driver’s seat, buckles his seat belt, and takes off.

“Don, we need to make a stop at the coffee shop. I need to get Mr. Sl- Casimir coffee.”

I request, suddenly remembering getting Casimir’s coffee is a part of my job now.

Don nods at me through the rearview mirror, and I grab my phone. I pull up the revised contract and read it over one last time before signing it and sending it off.

The stop at the coffee shop is brief, and I’m back in the Bentley and headed to Slate Enterprise in no time.

I lodge a deep breath as we pull up outside the colossal glass building. Its octagonal shape intimidates me as I step out of the car. Inhaling a deep breath, I command my legs to carry me to the building and up to the top floor, marveling once again at the glass beauty of Slate Enterprises as I step out of the vitrine elevator. The receptionist’s blond hair is pulled tightly in a ponytail, and she isn’t wearing black today. She’s wearing yellow. Was I too hasty to choose this black dress?

I sniffle a breath, gaining the receptionist’s attention, who seems shocked to see me.

“Yes, Mrs. NaVorro?”

She asks, confusion in her voice.

“Please, call me Jasmine. I’m Mr. Sl.-Casimir’s assistant.”

I must get comfortable with calling him by his first name. “It’s my first day, and well, I’m here for work.”

A smile tightens the beautiful woman’s face, and she looks down and rams her hand inside one of the reception desk's glass drawers. Although the desk appears to be made of clear glass, I find it odd that I am unable to see through it. I don’t ask how. I simply wait for her to find whatever she is scrambling for.

The receptionist pulls out what looks like a silver card attached to a chain, the silver sparkling against the intruding sunlight as she raises it and gives it to me.

“This is your card; it will allow you access anywhere in the building, including Mr. Slate’s office.”

I trap the card between my fingers, keeping the blonde in my view in case there is more she has to say.

“I’m Summer; if you need anything, please let me know. I work for you now as well.”

She works for me . I think to myself while rearing around the desk and over to Casimir’s office. I send one final glance the receptionist’s way before returning my gaze to the double doors before me.

This is my life now . Rushing my hands across the velvet of my dress, I trudge through the unsteady beating of my heart, my chest reeling in a deep breath as I slide the card and wait for the doors to open.

As usual, Casimir’s back is turned, and he is conferring with someone on the phone. He is most likely closing a deal; I surmise as I twist into the office.

Amber sunlight blasts through the office windows, making the black-marbled walls and floors appear softer than the last time I was here. The space is ample, and two opulent chairs sit at the left end of the office with a small gold table in front of them. The right side of the office holds a lavish red tufted chaise and a small glass desk with a gold chair behind it—my desk, I assume.

I make my way over to the desk, my heels clanging against the marble floors the entire trek. Casimir’s deep tone ceases, and I know he is watching me, which parades me with anxiety. Regardless I continue to my desk, twisting my peach-shaped ass in the air all the way there.

I arrive at the desk and sit the coffee, bagel, and purse atop it, my skin shivering as I remove my suit jacket and hook it on the back of the gold chair.

“You look beautiful,”

Casimir murmurs as footsteps near me.

He continues his conversation on the phone, and I resist the urge to turn around as I open the already-placed laptop atop my desk.

Sandalwood permeates my nose, and I tremble as his strong hands grab my waist. His touch is like iron, forcing me to turn and face him.

Casimir ends the call, and my eyes meet his. Blue fire invades my soul as he gazes at me intensely. My mouth is dry, and my tongue desperately searches for any type of saliva to moisten it. My lips open slightly as I skate my gaze across him.

A sleek white dress shirt hugs his broad, muscular frame, and a fitted black suit completes his attire. Although, he is wearing no tie today. The first few buttons of his dress shirt are unbuttoned, providing a view of his chiseled chest.

Casimir takes the back of his right hand gently against the left side of my face, and I cringe from the coolness of his gold ring touching my skin.

“What wouldn’t I do to have you?”

My eyes dip to his ring, no longer able to hold his intense gaze. Casimir’s cologne smells ravishing, almost addicting, and being this close to him makes me weak with lust.

I tighten my core, sucking in all the liquid that is gushing from my pussy, hoping that my throbbing clit doesn’t force me to do something I’ll later regret. Regardless of how bad I may want this man, I am still married, and I came here to work, not fuck.

A firm thumb lifts my face, and once again, Casimir’s sapphire eyes suck more liquid from my pussy.

“You’re so fucking hot. I want to taste those sexy lips.”

He rasps as his other hand tugs me to him.

“Your call?”

I query, snatching my eyes away from the temptation sizzling before me.

“The deal is completed. You’re all that matters now.”

Lust drips from Casimir’s voice, his need forcing my eyes back to his, and I’m trembling as he brings those full red lips close to mine. I want to kiss him and inhale the smell of his aftershave while his lips crush mine, but I know that I can’t. I want Casimir to see me for the attributes I bring as his assistant and not as a fuck toy.

Casimir moves closer to me, his breathing in contraction with mine. “Your chocolate skin is beautiful. I want to lick it, taste the melanin.”

The words tear through my soul as I run my tongue across my bottom lip, rearing through the thundering of my heart.

Casimir leans in, and just before his lips touch mine, my palm slams against his chest. With force, I shove my new boss away, not negating how the muscles in his chest flex under my touch, making me regret the decision to deny him the kiss. But my free hand snatches his coffee off my desk, and I’m pushing it against Casimir before making my way to my seat.

A rigid smile crosses his face, and I’m not sure if he is upset or disappointed. Casimir steals a sip of his coffee while moving towards his desk, and silence looms between us, almost visible in its thickness.

I inhale a deep breath before diving into the laptop. Slate Enterprises software has already been set up, and a list of the clients and their phone numbers is in place. I will have to remember each client and the companies they work for.

A throat clears, a failed attempt to gain my attention because I don’t look back. I continue to work on my computer and scroll through the appointment notes. I assume Casimir had someone set up for me.

“When I said your job is to adhere to my every need, that means my every need.”

Casimir’s voice is low and steep, letting me know he means business.

My fingers pause, hovering a few inches above the keyboard as I think up a reply. The contract didn’t mention anything sexual, but am I really that na?ve to believe Casimir actually hired me strictly for work? I mean, just yesterday, Casimir was finger fucking me. He didn’t even look at my resume, and I’m sure he still hasn’t checked it.

I push the chair back and bound to my feet, my legs carrying me over to Casimir’s desk as I force my eyes to meet his.

My fine-as-hell boss is just staring at me. He’s tilted back in his chair, legs crossed, and a clutched fist parked under his chin as his sapphire eyes sizzle into me. As if he’s undressing me with them, and God, he’s so freaking hot. But I can’t fold. I don’t fold. I simply make it to his desk, and shit, what do I say? My mouth is open, but my lips won’t move. Shit, my lips won’t move.

A sly smile scoots across his face, and his cheeks crease, exposing me to his dimples, and I’m reveling in his handsomeness.

“I’m sure it won’t surprise you to know that no woman has ever turned me down, Jasmine. Ever. Although I have never fucked a married woman, for you, I’d make an exception.”

The words are raspy as they drip from his mouth.

I close my lips, immediately reopening them, but nothing comes out. Casimir toys with his gold Rolex, and desire curl deep within my belly. Those hands are soft but firm, gentle but iron, and I want them. I want those hands all over my body, undressing me, his tongue moving along my core as he fucks me in ways I never imagined.

“I made a commitment,”

I whisper, dryness airing my mouth. “Yesterday was a mistake.”

Casimir’s eyes never leave mine as he pushes to his feet, sapphire burning through my chest like a flare gun as he rears slowly around his desk to me. My boss’s fingers thread through the curls of my hair, and I quake at the unexpected touch. I watch as he takes that same hand, moves it along my body, and traces my curves with a pleasing look on his face.

Casimir moisturizes his lips with the swipe of his tongue, and my clit throbs, my knees threatening to buckle as his cologne wraps around me like a bow, holding me tight like a present to be treasured. A present to be unwrapped and unraveled at his will.

“Are you happily married, Jasmine?”

The question is more of a statement, and I gulp as my pussy swells with lust. My throbbing clit, yearning for Casimir’s touch, craving desperately for the orgasm he gave me here in this office just yesterday.

“I asked if you are happily married?”

Casimir’s voice raises to a demanding tone, and I grit my teeth in my reply, still gazing deep into those sapphire eyes.

“I haven’t been happy in a long time.”

The admission saddens me as it rolls off my tongue. I have never even asked myself if I was happy.

“How long?”Casimir grips my waist, slamming me flush against his chest.

My nipples harden against the material of my dress. My mouth is thick and dry as the tension rises between us.

“How… Long?”

Another gulp leaves me, one so thick it pains me to swallow. “Longer than I can remember.”

I breathe out, and our lips are mere centimeters away as I inhale his aftershave.

Casimir’s hand strokes the side of my face once again; this time, he is careful not to touch me with the gold ring he’s wearing.

My pussy throbs in correlation with my heartbeat as his eyes search mine. My body pipes up, and I can feel him growing hard against my belly, my knees trembling as one of his hands escapes under my dress.

Before I can protest, Casimir’s lips crush mine, and my lips instinctively part as we endure a passionate kiss. “OH.”

I breathe as he grips my ass firmly.

Casimir’s tongue pulses its way down my throat, and I find myself moderate in trying to keep up with his fiery kisses. My breath catches in my lungs as his tongue explores my mouth in a devouring rhythm, sucking in both my lips before assaulting my mouth yet again with his tongue.

I swear this is the most intense kiss I have ever had, and moans escape me as his mouth ravishes mine.

A desperate breath bristles from my lips as Casimir’s tongue glides slowly down my neck, and my ass is swallowed in his palms as he massages both cheeks.

“OH Casimir.”

I cry as his mouth reaches the top of my left breast, leaving a searing path of heat along the way.

“You taste so fucking delicious. I want to devour you.” He moans.

My pussy is dripping with need as he sucks and licks the pillow of my breast. I’m dizzy, I’m hot and cold, warm and frosty, and my head snaps back as I begin to lose control.

I’m fucking losing my mind, and his hands are all over my body now, moving frantically as he drags down the top portion of my dress, exposing my raw nipples as I pant for air.

Casimir is moaning into my ear, and I can feel his need, taste it on my lips as he grows even harder against my belly. I want to give in. I want to give in desperately as his scorching mouth devours me.

“I-I can’t.”

I moan as his lips find one of my nipples.

His tongue traces the erect bud, and I gasp as he sucks it into his mouth, my body trembling as he sucks harder and harder.

“Casimir, I- I can’t,”

I whisper shakily, my head spinning from the intensity of it all.

Casimir steps back, his hands still holding me firm. My body is bucking wildly, and I can see the fire in his eyes, the desire behind the flames that’s desperate to burn me in all the right ways.

“I won’t force you to fuck me. I can wait until you’re ready.”

He murmurs.

I study his bleak expression, quietly questioning if I should go all the way. My body is still shaking, so Casimir hasn’t let me go. But I know if we continue, I will surely regret it later.

“Thank you.”

I force out as I straighten my dress.

My nipples are swollen, and my ass is raw with pleasure, but I am confident that I’m not ready.

“Are you ok to stand on your own?”

He asks, his eyes scanning me.

“Yeah, I think I’m ok.”

With my nod, Casimir releases me from his hold, quickly rounding his desk and grabbing his phone.

My lust gives way to humiliation as I head for my desk.

“Gather your things. We are making a trip to New York.”

“Today?”

I ask, turning back towards Casimir.

“Will that be a problem?”

My boss gives me challenging blue eyes. His expression is stoic, and I know there is no escaping.

I arrive at my desk and stare at my phone.“New York is a five-hour flight, and I have no clothes.”

“Text me your measurements, and I’ll have Greta pick up some things.”

Casimir regards me as he grabs his phone and heads towards his office door.

Snatching my phone from my desk, I imagine Alex’s reaction when I give him the news.

“The chopper is on the roof. Meet me there after you arrange things with your sitter.”

I wait a few moments after Casimir’s departure before calling Alex.

“Fucking New York Jas. That means Charlotte will need to stay overnight, and we still haven’t paid her.”

Alex’s roaring voice blares through the phone, leaving me no room for guessing. He is upset. We wouldn’t have to pay a sitter if you did your job as their father, but I don’t say that.

“I’ll handle Charlotte’s pay, Alex. In the meantime, please assist Charlotte by cleaning the house and making dinner.”

Alex groans and ends the call before I can say anything else. I text Charlotte to inform her of my last-minute trip. She’s in class, so I don’t call her, but thankfully, she is extremely understanding.

I grab my purse and head out the door, not wanting to delay the CEO any more than I already have.

Strong gusts of wind toss me from side to side when I arrive on the roof. The helicopter's propellors slice the thick air-like blades as I make my way toward it. Casimir is standing outside the plane, engaging in a deep conversation on his cell phone. His face is flushed, and I question if now is a good time to tell him I’m afraid to fly.

His eyes land on me, and he ends the call immediately.

“Who was that?”

I ask, the propellers of the grey helicopter drowning out my voice.

“Family matters.”

Casimir places his hand near the bottom of my back and guides me to the helicopter, not allowing me a moment to ask any more questions.