Julia’s POV:

My head is killing me!

What happened last night?

I open my eyes to the sun just peeking over the mountains. The open window lets in warmth, and I just know in an hour it’s going to be hot. Vegas is like that. Why on earth did someone decide to put a city in the middle of the desert? And that was before air conditioning. Seriously, what were they thinking? I slowly get out of bed to get my things, but when I look around, I notice I’m not in my room at all. Oh shit! I’m in his room. I look at the bed to see him still sleeping. Thank goodness for small miracles. I throw my clothes on and sprint to the door. Once I’m through, I close his door as quietly as possible.

I’m safe inside my room as I lean my back against my door and heave a huge sigh of relief. I go over the itinerary from yesterday and try to remember what happened last night, but there’s nothing. I don’t remember a thing. Mr. Draven had a meeting at 8 p.m. and told me to wait for him to finish. I sat at the bar and sipped my Shirley Temple. Mr. Draven stumbled toward me, so I tried to help him, but I remember nothing after that.

Just then the alarm on my phone begins to chime. Our flight is in a few hours, so I need to prepare. I walk to the washroom and it’s only then I notice my legs are weak and tired. My body aches in an area that has never ached before. No, no, no! No, it can't be. I didn’t sleep with him! I didn’t lose my virginity to my boss!

I rush to the full-length mirror inside the washroom and strip down. I take deep calming breaths as warm tears slowly trickle down my face. I turn back around and look at my reflection. What have I done? I look at my body and feel a disconnect. That’s not my body. How could it be?

My alarm rings again bringing me back to the present. I always set 2 alarms because I hate mornings. I have to get a move on. I quickly shower and pack my luggage. Mr. Draven hasn’t called me yet, so I know I must make sure he’s prepared to leave. He has appointments when we return, so no time can be wasted. I arrive at his door and take a deep breath. We’re both adults. It’s just something that happened. There’s no changing that. I knock on his door. “Mr. Draven?”

***

Fredrick’s POV:

“Stop knocking. Ms. Lewis, get my suit ready and prepare some black coffee.” I get out of bed to prepare for my busy schedule. My head hurts more than usual. I take a quick shower and shave. I wrap a towel around my nether regions in case Ms. Lewis is still in my room. That woman drives me mad. She’s too beautiful to be real. She’s like a pin-up brought to life.

My suit is laid out neatly just as it should be. I quickly dress and head out. Ms. Lewis has a travel mug prepared. Good. I think I’ll keep her around. She’s the first intern to actually be of use. The last three were all useless. I can’t believe my assistant of 6 years decided to quit just to have a baby.

“Sir, your itinerary for the day?” she asks me like it’s something we don’t do every morning. I nod and take a sip of coffee. Just the aroma calms my aching head and settles my nerves. “Flight is at 8 a.m. We should arrive back by 5 p.m. You have a board meeting at 5:30. That gives you 2 hours for office work. You are scheduled to meet Ms. Cavanagh at 7:45 p.m. for dinner.”

I nod and check my phone for emails. “Make sure my luggage is ready, call for my car, and make sure nothing gets left behind.”

***

Julia’s POV:

Okay. I guess sleeping with his assistant isn't a big deal for the high and mighty Mr. Draven. I do my job and get everything done quickly. I double check his room while he is lounging in the living area of the suite.

While he was in the shower, I tidied the bed. Sure enough, evidence of our night together lies between the sheets. What’s done is done. There's no changing the past. I look at the bed again and sigh. I carefully comb through the room for anything left behind. I check the nightstand last. Inside the drawer is a black velvet box. I open it out of sheer curiosity. Inside is a beautiful diamond ring. Mr. Draven wouldn’t be so careless as to leave something as exquisite as this.

I rush out to the living area. “Mr. Draven, this was left behind. I'm sure it’s not intended for your luggage.” I set the box on the coffee table in front of him. He nods while continuing to read his emails. He takes a sip of his coffee then looks at the table.

“That’s not mine.” He returns to his emails when there is a knock at the door. I allow the bellhop in and point out the various suitcases. I receive a text alert that the car has arrived.

“Sir, the car is downstairs.” He stands up and goes to head out but stops. He takes the box and opens it. There is a look of confusion on his face. He places the box down and checks his phone.

“Ms. Lewis, check your business account.”

Okay…I pull up my bank account on my phone and show it to him. He looks over the list and returns my phone. He looks at his phone again and scratches the back of his neck. I know that move; he only does that when he’s frustrated. He puts the box in his suit jacket and grabs his coffee before tucking his phone away.

“Let’s go.”

The ride to the airport is short and we make our way through the VIP area. His plane is awaiting our arrival on the tarmac. We buckle in and are ready to set off.

“Would you care for a beverage this morning?” the gorgeous blond stewardess asks.

“Nothing for me. Ms. Lewis, would you care for anything?” Mr. Draven’s ocean blue eyes look my way. I realize how hungry I am. I haven’t had a chance to eat anything.

“Orange juice, please. Also, can I please have a blueberry bagel with cream cheese and some grapes?" The stewardess nods and retreats.

“Ms. Lewis, did you enjoy your visit?”

I gulp. Oh no. Is he bringing up last night? Avoid it. Just pretend nothing happened. Don't make a big deal of it. If he wants to talk about last night, he'll bring it up.

“Las Vegas was exactly as it appears in movies. I was amazed.”

His lush lips turn up slightly. “Did you enjoy your evening?”

I clear my throat. Like he doesn’t know. I feel my cheeks flush as I swipe a stray hair over my ear. “I-I…”

“Your food, ma'am.” The stewardess arrives with a tray and saves me from having to continue.

“Thank you.” I look up. Mr. Draven has returned to his phone. He then pulls out his laptop and begins working. After eating, I pull out my laptop and begin working as well. The flight goes by quickly.

I’m at my desk reading the email from my school. Friday is the last day of my internship. Intern, my ass. I fulfilled the role as his assistant. It was the only position available when I applied for my internship at Draven & Baker.

My inbox chimes with a new email. I open it.

'Ms. Lewis. As your internship comes to a close, we are left with an open position for Mr. Draven’s assistant. Mr. Draven is satisfied with your work over the last 3 months and would like to offer the position to you. Please respond with your resume to the HR department ASAP. Pay and benefits will be discussed at a later time. Thank you for your attention. -Mrs. Harvey.'

Mrs. Harvey is Mr. Draven’s personal secretary. She is a kind lady in her 40s. It’s rumored that she makes 6 figures. Mr. Draven’s assistant would make even more. OMG!

Mr. Draven’s office door opens. He stops in front of my desk while looking at his cell phone. “I will be returning to Las Vegas in 2 weeks. Make sure everything is arranged. Perhaps a different hotel.”

I nod. “Yes, sir. Any preference?”

Without looking up he answers, “None. I’m out for the day. As soon as you’re finished, you may go.”

Alrighty then. I begin searching online.

He doesn’t wait for a response before heading to his private elevator. I search through the hotels and pick one at random then prepare to arrange his personal plane. He didn’t tell me how long his stay would be, so I pull up his schedule. Of course, it’s jam packed. I send him a text.

Me: Mr. Draven, your schedule is full for the time you plan to go to Las Vegas. When would you like to go and for how long? I will need to rearrange your schedule.

He instantly responds.

Mr. Draven: I will be staying for two weeks beginning Thursday. Clear your schedule as well.

I guess he assumes I’m taking the position as his assistant, but I have yet to decide.

***

Fredrick’s POV:

I enter the restaurant and go straight to my table. I get the same one every time.

“Darling, you’re finally here. It’s not like you to be late,” my shrew of a fiancée tells me.

I unbutton my jacket and take my seat. “My meeting ran over.” I offer no apology to Ms. Cavanagh. I couldn't care less about the shallow stick figure in front of me.

She’s the daughter of my father’s partner, Mr. Baker. Father wants us to marry, but I can’t stand her. He thinks it will be good for the company, but I plan to buy them out instead. They’re just dead weight. The waiter pours the wine that she must have ordered. I don’t drink wine, never have, but she insists.

I take a sip and look at the waiter. “The usual.”

The waiter nods and looks to Shelby. “Scallops.” The waiter nods and retreats. “Darling, how was Vegas? You must take me with you next time. I missed you too much while you were away.” She sips her wine. I look toward the waiter and hold up my wine glass. He nods and brings me my scotch. Everyone here knows what is expected, which is why I come here so often.

“I was there for work. It was not a vacation.” I drink my scotch as the waiter brings out our food. Of course, she has to take a picture and post it to social media.

“When we’re married will you bring me along on your trips? I’ll be so bored waiting for you all alone.” I grunt in response.

We eat in silence, which is good because her talking grates on my nerves. All she ever talks about is entertainment gossip and shopping. Why would I give a damn about either of those things?

“Excuse me," I say as I stand up. I take my jacket off and proceed to the washroom. I return to my table and notice my jacket is not how I left it. I pick it up and put it back on.

“I ordered dessert,” Shelby tells me.

I grunt and sit down. I don’t eat sweets. She should know that by now. I look to the waiter with my scotch glass. He brings me another and places a plate in the middle of the table. Shelby begins picking at the sugar concoction. After two bites, she places her fork down. She eats like a damn bird, so why does she even order anything? She only takes three or four small bites. It’s maddening. I need to get away from her. She drives me nuts.

“My schedule is full coming up. I won’t have time for casual meetings,” I tell her.

“That’s all right. We have the gala coming up soon. Remember, we are getting our marriage license tomorrow as well. I can visit you at the office in the meantime. Darling, you still have not given me a new ring. I expect it soon. All my friends are asking to see it. How can I show my face without my ring?”

I down my scotch. “I gave you a ring. Why must you have a new one?”

She sips her wine. “You’re so silly. That diamond was not the right cut. I’ve told you this. You know, you never did actually propose properly. When you get my new ring, you can do it then.”

I glare at her, silencing her. “We already made arrangements. I will not get on my knee and grovel to you. The ring you have is sufficient. If you disagree, maybe the wedding should be canceled.”

Her mouth hangs open and tears flow from her face. “No, darling. You can’t mean that.”

I pass her a napkin. “All right, that’s enough. It’s still on, but no more talk about another ring.”

She nods and wipes her face. She pulls a mirror from her handbag and touches up her makeup. I stand and escort her out.

Shelby and I have been engaged for two years now. In all that time we’ve only slept together twice. Both times she drugged me. I know because I woke up feeling like shit. I have a doctor on retainer, so had him run blood work. I never drink from a glass I haven’t seen poured myself whenever she’s around. She doesn’t do anything for me. I’m not attracted to her at all.

But Ms. Lewis…that body should be in magazines. She is stunning. Her body is like Bettie Page’s or Marilyn Monroe’s—voluptuous, curves in all the right places, and a narrow waist. She gets me going, which is why I try not to look at her as much as possible. Her brown hair is usually tied up in a bun and her face is hidden behind glasses, but her skin looks smooth and soft. Her lips are dark and thick and makes me want to take a bite out of them.

Shelby, on the other hand, she’s a basic model. She’s too skinny with a flat chest, although I’m pretty sure she recently had her boobs enhanced. Her face is covered in makeup and her lips look like a blowfish, which I know she gets done regularly.

Shelby gets in the car as I get ready to drive. One of my few hobbies is cars. The other is billiards. I am addicted to the rush of a fast car. I speed off in my black BMW M4. It’s my normal, everyday car, but I have a collection of others.

“Darling, why don’t we just go to your place? You’ve been away too long.” She wraps her claws around my forearm.

I glare at her hand and pull away from her grasp. “I’m busy.” I drive even faster to her place. She kisses my cheek before stepping out of the car. I speed away before she can even close the door. I pull out a handkerchief and wipe away the lipstick that I’m sure she left behind.

When I get home, I pull into my garage. My cars are lined up like a showroom. It’s a beautiful sight. I head to my room. I empty my pockets onto the dresser in my closet.

The ring box grabs my attention. I bought a ring last night. I know I bought it because the jeweler was listed on my bank app. Why the hell did I buy a ring? I open it up and take a look. It’s dainty with a simple filigree design. Not at all what Shelby would like. No wonder she brought up the subject of a new ring. She probably assumed it was for her and didn’t like it.

I pull the ring out of the box and take a closer look. The band looks larger than Shelby’s size as well. Who did I buy a ring for? What did I do last night? I don’t remember buying a ring. Hell, I don’t remember anything after meeting up with Jarret. That bastard, what did he do to me? I hardly had anything to drink, but I still woke up with a headache.

I dial my college buddy. “What did you do to me last night?”

I hear a short pause on the other line. “Hey bud, did you enjoy your night? That assistant of yours is smoking. How was she?”

My hand automatically goes to the back of my neck. “What the fuck are you talking about? What did you do?”

The bastard laughs. “Just helping you out, man. You’re always too uptight. It wasn’t that strong. Did it do the trick?”

He drugged me. The son of a bitch fucking drugged me. “I don’t know anything. I woke up alone and can’t remember a thing. If anything happened, she didn’t say anything.”

“Her too? Ah man, what a waste. I was trying to do you a favor and you can’t even remember. Why do I even bother? Next time you’re out here, I’ll make it up to you both.”

I grunt. “Sure, right after I kick your ass.”

I swear next time I see him he’s getting a broken jaw. I click off the phone. I go to my gym and work out. I try to remember anything from last night, but there is really nothing. I shower and head to bed; I have an early day tomorrow.

Fredrick’s POV:

I hate government buildings. I would never walk into one if I didn’t have to apply in person. Why am I doing this? My father wants me to marry. Grandfather blocked some of my shares until I’m married, that’s why I’m doing this. Wicked old man.

“Next," the window attendant calls. Shelby hands over the paperwork. The woman looks through the papers and inputs information into her computer. “Do you have ID, sir?” I hand over my license and social security card. The woman looks at me. “Sir, in the United States polygamy is illegal.”

I nod. “Okay? Thanks for that information. I don’t plan to have multiple wives. One is bad enough.”

Shelby scoffs next to me. “That’s not funny.” She thinks I’m joking.

“Well, sir, according to my information you already have a wife,” the clerk tells me.

Oh fuck! I close my eyes and grunt. Vegas…

Shelby is the first to respond “What!? How can he already be married? Darling, what’s going on?” She clings to my arm with all her might.

“Miss, as this matter is only in his name, I’m afraid I’ll have to ask you to step away for privacy concerns.”

Of course, Shelby loses her shit. “This is public record. I'm not going anywhere. Do you know who I am? I will sue the shit out of you. Fix this now!”

I pull Shelby to the side. “Let me handle this. Just calm down and stop making a scene. You’re embarrassing me. I don’t need to be in tomorrow’s headlines because of you.”

She scoffs. “Because of me? Who’s the one that is married?” She crosses her arms and tilts her chin up.

“Alright, just let me go find out what’s going on,” she scoffs again but doesn’t move. I walk back to the counter. “Madam, please give me the information you have.” The lady has no response but prints off a paper and hands it over. I read the paper and rub the back of my neck.

“If you want an annulment, you and your wife will have to file paperwork then get it notarized. People think Vegas weddings are a joke, but they actually are legal. Don’t worry, you’re not the first one this has happened to.”

I nod and say a sarcastic, “Thanks,” and walk out the door.

Shelby catches up to me outside just as I get to my car. “Darling, what do we do now?”

I open her door then walk around to my own seat. “I'll take you back. I must meet with my father.”

Shelby grabs hold of my arm, “Darling, we’re still getting married. You made a deal with Daddy. You better not back out of it.” I speed to Shelby’s place and let her out.

My father’s house is just down the way so it’s a quick trip. I walk through the door and am greeted by the butler, Sam. “Good day, young sir. Senior Mr. Draven is on the terrace.” He closes the door behind me.

“Thank you, Sam.” I walk out to see a new bimbo sitting on Father’s lap. “Father, a word.” Sam comes out with a tray of scotch and two glasses as father sends his new plaything away.

“Where is Shelby? Don’t tell me the two of you are on the rocks again. You need to hurry up and marry that girl. Steve is starting to get on my nerves.”

I shoot my drink and pour another. “Yes, well. We agreed that I would only have to marry once. That’s why I’m here. Jarret drugged me while I was in Vegas, and I somehow ended up getting married. Shelby and I just found out while we were attempting to get our marriage license.”

Father stares me down while he takes a drink. “Looks like you lucked out. You get your shares and avoid marrying Baker’s daughter. Is your new wife some stripper? Wouldn’t that just put the cherry on top.” He takes another drink.

“This was not planned, as I’ve already mentioned, I was drugged. And no, she’s not a stripper. She’s actually my new assistant. Jarret drugged the both of us. I doubt she even knows yet. Either way, the deal was to be married for a year before I can divorce. Does this deal still stand? I can get an annulment, but I will not be married more than once. You know my temperament.”

Father nods his head. He takes a deep breath and lets it out slowly. “I guess it’s done then. One year minimum still stands. As for Baker, you can deal with that issue yourself.”

***

Julia’s POV:

I don’t know what to do. Do I want to be his assistant? It’s a lot of money. I would never have to worry about bills, that’s for sure. Dad’s medical debt is really the most important issue, not to mention all the school loans. For Dad I should just suck it up and take the job. Mr. Draven is really not difficult to handle. People say he’s scary, but I don’t see it. He’s intimidating, but that could be said of any powerful businessman. Not to mention how gorgeous he is. Dark wavy hair and bronzed skin are just what is visible when he’s sharply dressed in his suits. The way they hug his body, it’s obvious he works out. It would just be so awkward knowing I slept with him. And he’s engaged. That makes me a home wrecker too. Oh, I’m a terrible person.

My phone chimes, the caller ID showing the hospital. “This is Julia Lewis.”

“Ms. Lewis. This is Dr. Torres. Your father’s dose needs to be increased and I think we need to add another medication. He seems to be steady, but I believe the medication wears off too early. Also, he’s showing signs of depression.”

I close my eyes and let out a breath. “Of course. If that’s what he needs. I’ll be by to visit him later today.” I hang up the phone and turn back to my monitor. The email from Mrs. Harvey is front and center. What choice do I have? I send in my resume.

I look up from my monitor into a pair of piercing deep sea eyes. I gasp from the surprise. “Ms. Lewis.”

I regain my composure, “Mr. Draven. What can I do for you?” His hand goes to the back of his neck. Oh shit.

“Make me a cup of coffee and meet me in my office. We have matters to discuss.” He walks into his office. I stand up and smooth out my calf length pencil skirt and re-tuck my blouse. I head to the coffee machine and prepare his cup. He’s on a phone call when I walk in. I place his cup down and take a seat on the white suede sofa. I get my paper pad ready for any notes. He hangs up his phone and rings his secretary, “Mrs. Harvey, I am not to be disturbed.”

Mr. Draven grabs his coffee and comes to join me on the sofa. I hold my breath. “Ms. Lewis, I received your resume.” That was fast. I let out my breath. “I’m glad you will be staying on. We can discuss your pay and benefits. If you have any issues, please speak up. Once your contract is signed, we will not be making changes. Contracts are renewed annually. Everything will be emailed to you in detail. Look over it and contact me directly with any issues or questions. Understood?”

I nod, “Yes, sir. Thank you for the opportunity.”

He takes a sip of his coffee, then speaks again. “Now about Vegas…” His eyes penetrate me, and I can’t help but bite down on my lip. He clears his throat. “I have no recollection of the last night there. My buddy Jarret informed me that he drugged both of us. I assume you have no recollection as well.”

My mouth falls open. Drugged? “I…” I close my eyes and take a calming breath. I open my eyes and look at Mr. Draven. “I was drinking a soda at the bar where you left me. I remember you coming out of the room, but you were stumbling a little. The next thing I knew, I woke up in your room. I was frightened so I went back to my room. That’s all I remember.”

He nods, then asks, “Did we have sex?” I fidget with my pen and can no longer look him in the eye. His hand reaches over to stop my fidgeting. His touch is very distracting. “Is that a yes?” I clear my throat and look up. I nod slightly. A tear escapes my eye. Mr. Draven gently wipes my tear away. “Was I that terrible?” He chuckles. I can tell he’s trying to make things easier for me.

“It’s not that…I mean, I don’t know. I mean I…it…it…was my first time.”

Mr. Draven’s hand goes to the back of his neck. “Shit. I’m very sorry, Ms. Lewis. I understand the first time is supposed to be meaningful. You must be feeling violated right now. As you should. We both should.”

Mr. Draven stands up and walks to his desk. “Please understand I don’t sleep around and I’m clean. You don’t have to worry about STIs.” He reaches into his drawer. “I believe this is yours.” He places a black box on the coffee table in front of me. Just as I had done in Vegas.

I pick up the box and peer at the diamond ring I know is inside. “Why would this belong to me?” I look up at him in confusion.

“I bought it that night. I found the purchase on my bank card. See if it fits. Please.”

I slip the ring on; it’s a perfect fit. I quickly take it off and hand it back. “I can’t keep this. You bought it. It belongs to you.”

He refuses to take the box. “Why would I buy a ring for myself?”

Touché. “Sir, why would you buy a ring for me?”

He sits back down and finishes off his coffee. “Because apparently you and I got married.”

My paper pad slips to the floor. I’m totally shocked. “What? Huh?” I’m married? I’m married to this gorgeous man sitting in front of me? The man I lost my virginity to. My boss, the head honcho of Draven & Baker. I hold my head with both hands. This is insane. I haven’t even graduated college yet, how can I be married? Insane. This can’t be real. A bottle of water is thrust in front of my face. The lid has already been removed so I take a few big gulps, not at all ladylike. My hand is shaking when I place the half empty bottle on the coffee table.

“I’m sorry to spring this on you. You are innocent in all of this mess; however, I have no intention of releasing you from our marriage. I only ever intended to be married once in my lifetime. I am not a man that believes in fate, but I do believe in extenuating circumstances.” Mr. Draven picks up my water bottle and takes a drink before setting it back down. He takes a paper from his desk. “This is proof that you and I are legally married.”

I reach up to inspect this mythical proof. Sure enough, we were married while in Vegas. There’s a date, two signatures, and an official seal from the state of Nevada. “I’m your wife?” I repeat timidly. Mr. Draven nods. “You’re my husband.” I state the obvious just as timidly. Again, he nods. “What do…”

“Deep breath, Ms. Lewis. Or I’m sorry, your first name is…?”

I giggle at how ridiculous this is. “We’re married and you don’t even know my name.” I pick up the water bottle and take another gulp before placing it back down.

Mr. Draven goes to his desk, most likely in search of my name. I start getting hot, my head pounds, and my collar is beginning to bother me. I unbutton just the top button, toss my glasses on the table and pull my hair out of its bun. I finger comb my hair out. I’m fanning myself with one hand and rubbing my head with the other. This is all too much.

I hear my name being called. “Julia. I understand that this is a lot to take in, but please remember we are in my office. I will need you to tidy yourself up again before you leave.” Leave? Duh, I can’t very well stay in here. If I went back out like this, people would get the wrong idea.

I nod. “Mr. Draven, this is…” what? What is this? “This is very shocking. I promise I will get control of myself. I just need a few more minutes.”

He waits patiently at his desk. “You may use my washroom. And when we are not in another’s company you may call me Fredrick.” I zombie walk to the washroom and splash cool water on my face. My hands are barely holding me up as I’m leaning onto the sink. My legs are weak and shaking.

“Julia.” A soft white towel is handed to me. I accept it and wipe my face. “Don’t think too much on it. You’ve been by my side for three months now. You know how I am, and I trust you. We can continue our discussion tonight over dinner. This weekend you can move in.”

I turn to face him. “Move in? Mr. Draven…” It’s at that moment I realize how close we are standing, but I have no room to step back.

His ocean eyes stare me down. “It’s Fredrick. Yes, move in. You are my wife now. Of course, we should live together.” I have no response. He raises his hand and runs it gently through my hair. My breath catches and I look him in the eye. “You’re quite pretty. I like your hair down. It’s best to keep it up while we’re working, though. It would be too distracting otherwise.” He holds up my glasses and hair ties in his other hand. I take them and he leaves the room.

I tidy myself up. When I’m finally composed, I head back into his office. I’ve had time to collect myself, at least enough to get me through the rest of the day. “Mr. Draven, will there be anything else?” I ask as I pick up my pad and pen.

“That will be all, Mrs. Draven.” I stop in my tracks and look at his beautiful face. His lips are tilted up in a flirty smirk. He’s messing with me now. I shake my head and smile to myself. I open the door and return to my seat. As soon as I sit down, I get a text: Mrs. Draven, Remember to look through your contract. Also, please keep this matter private for the time being. I would hate to be a part of office gossip.

I reply with one simple word: Duh!