The first thing Elena Brooks noticed about Crosswell Tower was the silence.
Not the peaceful kind—the kind that pressed against your chest and reminded you to move carefully, speak softly, exist quietly. Even her heels against the marble floor sounded too loud.
"Thirty-second floor," the receptionist said, smiling politely.
"Thank you," Elena replied, adjusting the folder in her hands.
The elevator ride felt longer than it was. When the doors opened, glass greeted her—walls of it. Offices framed in transparency, people moving with purpose, voices low, tension controlled.
"This way," the HR manager said.
They stopped in front of the largest glass office at the end of the floor.
Inside, a man stood with his back turned, phone to his ear, suit immaculate, posture rigid.
"…No excuses," he said calmly. "Fix it by noon."
The call ended.
He turned around.
Julian Cross didn't raise his voice. He didn't frown. His presence alone commanded attention—sharp eyes, controlled expression, the kind of man who didn't need to repeat himself.
"This is Elena Brooks," HR said. "Your new executive assistant."
Julian's gaze settled on her. Not lingering. Measuring.
"You're early," he said.
"I prefer it that way," Elena replied.
A brief pause.
"Good," Julian said. "I don't reward lateness."
HR smiled, relieved. "I'll leave you two."
The glass door shut softly behind her.
Elena suddenly became aware of the space between them.
Julian motioned to the chair opposite his desk. "Sit."
She did.
He remained standing, moving around the desk slowly, deliberately.
"You've reviewed the contract," he said.
"Yes."
"You understand the workload."
"Yes."
"This position doesn't last long."
"I'm aware."
He stopped in front of her. "Then why take it?"
Elena lifted her chin. "Because I'm efficient. Because pressure doesn't scare me. And because I finish what I start."
For a moment, Julian said nothing.
Then—his lips curved slightly.
Not a smile meant for comfort.
A smile meant for challenge.
"Welcome to Crosswell Corporation, Ms. Brooks," he said.
"Let's see if you survive."
Elena stood, meeting his gaze without hesitation.
"I intend to," she said.
Behind the glass walls, something subtle shifted—
a line beginning to blur, quietly, inevitably.