Shadow of love and power

e each other. The streetlights barely pushed away the shadows. Tonight was just the same, but I felt a knot of anxiety in my

. It was short and to the point. I had three

e da

ancers. They chatted away, so carefree. I couldn't help but feel envy twist in my stomach. I took a

aper would clear my mind. But my hands were shaking too mu

usually served drinks and sandwiches there, chasing tips to keep the landlord off my back. Tonight

e. Be at 315 Hudson at 7 PM. Al

exts. But the name at the bottom

nterprises. Everyone knew him. He was known for his cold demea

uilding with his name on it. I felt small, like a s

ee a well-dressed man in a sharp suit. He had a serious l

estions. But my mouth went dry, and only a nod came o

-

Me

tried to focus on the soft hum of the machine. I knew I had to

a scene from a movie. Huge windows gave a stunning view of the city

behind, he had a commanding presence. He turned slowly, and his sha

his voice cold but smoot

"I didn't feel lik

dn't come across as a real smil

t small in his huge office. Adrian took th

ondering why you'r

statement," I replied,

tinizing me. "I have

My mind raced, spinning with wild th

-

ocking

he said, breaking

ed I misheard him.

ut the weather. "It's a business deal. Six months. You play

shocked. "You c

e. "I assure you, Ms.

e a prank. People like Adrian Blackwood didn't ju

inally manage

I saw a hint of human emotion. "Because you fit the role perfect

o family, no great job, and barely any cash. But the way he said it

is?" I shot back, crossing my

replied smoothly. "Just know t

s for answers, but his intens

-

Deci

desk to me. "The terms are in he

shaking as I picked it

d. "Then you leav

lap. The thought of half a million dollars was life-changing. It could wipe

his?" I asked, my vo

ight tell me. But then he stood, signaling it was over. "

he folder as I walked outside. The air felt colder, everyth

the sidewalk was empty. Still, the feeling clung to me. Someth