intimidating than she had anticipated. It was hard to believe that someone like McKenney

found solace in the realization that even someone of his stature could

wristwatch was the only audible sound, each second passing by with a sense of anticipation. She cursed under her breath as it dawned on her t

stared at the gate towering over her, no matter how much she trie

f to overcome the doubts that lingered. Cassie's face remained a steadfast prese

meant becoming involved with a wealthy billionaire who sought-a

he butler, steeling herself and responding, "I'm here to see Mr. McKenney. It's urgent."

er when she came in through the gate, but he n

" she answered, a

f this earpiece if Mr McKenney was expecting any Miss Zachary?. Annette could only guess

rpiece, awaiting confirmation. Annette's attention drifted, her interes

rry for the delay" the guard rel

er assumption of being denied entry was proven wrong. Perhaps things

mes. The gardens, fountains, and statues that surrounded the villa added to its elegance, a perfect harmony of design and nature. She marveled at the artistry displayed through intricate mosaics, frescoes, and s

oor swung open, and two pairs of eyes locked onto her as she stepped onto the front porch. Annette's a

with embarrassment as she realized she had remained frozen in place despite the butler's invitation. "P

ssment, Annette mumbled a

I should take you to his study while he finishes up wi

her breath caught. McKenney stood there at the top of the stair

ally unbuttoned, revealing a chiseled torso that seemed sculpted by the gods themselves. The wind tousled his dark ha

the butler said, breaking her tra

magnetic pull she felt toward him left her both intrigued and apprehensive. With each step, she couldn't shake the

to a gray couch by the butler. She was anxious to leave a

nd Cassie's accident catching up with her. Just then, her phone rang, showing

doing?" Annette inquired,

n't want to see the doctor or anyone else. She says she

"What? Why? What's wrong w

. That's just i

though she was supposed to discuss a certain matter wit

e as soon as possible and

ll take a little time though, but I'll be there.

ne," Jan

ne in the air. It was him, the CEO, approachin

he watched as he walked into the room with his usual elegance. She thou

Annette Zachary." Annette asserte

ition washed over his face. "Ohh! I see," he nodded. "You

logize once again." She took a step

y" he said in a nonchalant tone as his gaze fo

te!" she insisted, he

cks'. It sounds better to the ears

ion she was in. "I don't have the time to argue with

rked, showing an appreciat

s. "I have something complicated to sort out right now. So, pay at

listen. "Before that, what woul

for refreshments. "No, I'm

just poured for himself as she stared at her with desire filled eyes, 'this is