I stood in front of the sleek, silver elevator, adjusting my tie for what felt like the hundredth time.bI had been a bodyguard for several years, working for various high-profile clients, but this new job was different. This was Julian Blackwood, the most successful business man in the city, and possibly the country. His reputation was daunting, to say the least.
As the elevator doors slid open, I stepped inside and took a deep breath, smoothing out my jacket. I had heard the rumours, of course. Who hasn't? Julian Blackwood was a man who never smiled. He was a stone statue, impervious to the world around him. And the whispers about his... personal life? Those were even more intriguing. It was said that he was impossible to please, that no one had ever managed to crack the armour of his icy exterior.
I raised an eyebrow, intrigued despite myself. I have always prided myself on being the epitome of perfection, the ultimate professional. But there was something about this job that drew me in, something that made me want to take on the challenge.
The elevator doors opened, and I stepped out into the opulent penthouse apartment. The interior was sleek and modern, with floor- to- ceiling windows that offered breathtaking views of the city. I was greeted by an impeccably dressed butler, who introduced himself as Jenkins.
"Welcome, Mr...?" Jenkins trailed off, expecting me to fill in the blank.
"Kai Rylan," I replied, extending my hand. "I'm the new personal bodyguard."
Jenkins expression was stoic, but I detected a hint of curiosity in his eyes. "Ah, Mr. Rylan. Mr. Blackwood is expecting you. Please follow me."
As i trailer behind jenkins, i couldn't help but notice the stark, minimalist decor. There were no personalised touches, no hints of warmth or personality. This was a space designed for function, not comfort.
We stopped in front of a large, wooden door, and Jenkins knocked once before pushing it open. "Mr. Blackwood, your new bodyguard has arrived."
I stepped inside, my eyes adjusting to the dimmer lighting of the study. And that was when I saw him, Julian Blackwood, standing behind his massive desk, his eyes fixed intently on me.
He was even more imposing in person, his chiselled features and piercing blue eyes making my heart skip a beat. I felt a shiver run down my spine as our gazes met, and for a moment, I forgot to breathe.
"Mr. Rylan," he said, his voice low and smooth, like silk wrapped around steel. "Welcome to my home. I trust you're aware of the... unique requirements of this position?"
I nodded, my mind racing with the possibilities. "Yes, Mr. Blackwood. I'm aware of your... reputation."
His expression didn't change but I sense a flicker of interest behind his eyes. "Good. I expect discretion and professionalism at all times. You'll be living here, in the penthouse, and accompanying me to all my business engagements."
I nodded, my stomach twisting with anticipation. This was going to be an interesting job, to say the least.
"I won't disappoint you, Mr. Blackwood," I said, my voice firm and confident.
"See that you don't, Mr. Rylan," he said, his voice cold and detached. "I have high expectations."
I inclined my head, a sense of determination rising within me. I was going to prove myself, to show Julian Blackwood that I was more than just a bodyguard. I was going to crack the ice, to make him smile, to... The thought sent a shiver down my spine, and I pushed it aside, focusing on the task at hand. I was here to do a job, to protect Julian Blackwood from harm. And that's exactly what I was going to do.
Or so I thought...