Business as Usual {Niksis x Ms Catailia}

[Ms Catailia]

Never again. He had to go.

But wasn't that always the case? Sophie Pyrce stumbled out of the elevator as if she had been drunk, in all actuality she had basically fallen asleep with her forehead leaned against the cold metal door. It was four in the morning after all, and she hadn't had a wink of sleep. She had gotten home late the night before, nearly midnight since she had to finish up some reports for her boss. Her long time boyfriend, Christopher, had not be pleased. This led to the usual fight, maybe a little more violent from pent up sexual tension considering she had little time to spend with him all week. All week meant Thursday though, it had only been three days before the fight, three days of hardly being available because her boss couldn't seem to even make appearances at the office. It only took three days for her boyfriend to snap which led to now.

Thursday at four in the morning.

She was a mess. At least, Sophie felt that way. She always felt that way after dealing with Christopher. Taking a step toward her desk though, it became even more apparent when her heel snapped. "Fuck..." she muttered to herself as she reached a slender hand out to lean against a wall. Lifting her foot she removed her shoe and took in the damage. It was a clean snap luckily, something she could easily fix. Removing her other dark heel, she carried the two plain business type heels to her desk, walking barefoot on the tight carpet in merely her dark shade of stockings. Once at her desk, she fell back into her chair, leaning her head back a moment to try and relax. She was exhausted.

The night had been a blur but she was left with plenty of reminders. It had all been verbal at first but she made the sorry mistake of trying to calm Christopher down, which only led to the same old argument 'You don't think I can control myself?' That led to his examples of control which included but were not limited to slamming her face against the window, but not through it; twisting her arm behind her back painfully so, but not breaking it; and slapping her across the face, but not leaving a permanent mark. He liked to remind her how much damage he could do without ever leaving visible evidence. This was because her caramel colored skin very rarely showed bruises. Not only that, but she had become a professional at covering it all up.

This was no more apparent than when she unlocked the bottom drawer of her desk and pulled out a black faux leather bag in which she stored all the necessities for an after fight morning. But first, where was that heel? She reached down to pick up the broken one she had placed on the floor and with a quick dab of super glue, she stood the heel up on the desk so it could dry. Now, did she really want to walk all the way to the bathroom to change? She couldn't do it at her desk because of the cameras but... green eyes found their way to her boss' office.

Troy Halberd

The black letters stood boldly against the gold plaque. He didn't deserve that plaque and that office, but the world wasn't fair. He wouldn't mind if she borrowed it for a little while, he wouldn’t even know. Taking her bag she made her way to his office, using her own key to unlock the door and enter. There was nothing personal about his office, but that was no surprise since he was hardly there. She had found out rather quickly since starting that she was running most of his work for him. It didn't bother her, to an extent, because she enjoyed the work. It was more so the lack of credit she received that got under her skin. Sophie didn't even feel like Troy noticed but she wasn't one to ask for praise. She just had to keep telling herself that eventually someone would notice.

With the blinds drawn, slender fingers unbuttoned the white blouse she had been wearing. A frown on her lips when she noticed the seam split at the shoulder. Another something she would have to fix. A run in her stockings though, was not something she could fix. The ones she removed were trash but she would never think to throw them away in his office. Watch it be the one day he actually showed his face. The black pencil skirt that ended before her knees would be fine for another day's use, but a fresh pair of undergarments were always necessary so she pulled the skirt off as well. Quickly changing into another pair of black lace, to match the garter belt and bra, she pulled on a new pair of dark stockings, attaching the garter straps. There was something about looking sexy under her clothing that always gave her a confidence boost throughout the day. It was for her and her alone, she dressed for no one else, not even Christopher, but it was always a perk to be ready if things ever did call for a touch of sexy.

Pulling on a dark blue long sleeved blouse, she tucked that into the tight pencil skirt that ended at the curve of her waist. It made her bussom, already a pronounced C cup, even more apparent as the shirt lay open near the top of her chest. Once dressed, she moved behind his desk to sit in his chair which was far more comfortable than her own. Digging her make up, mirror and brush out of her bag, she laid it all out before using the mirror to assess the damage. Her lips were slightly swollen from Christopher's rough use of them. There was slight bruising around the base of her neck from his choking her and she suddenly regretted the open top of the blouse. Her left cheek was a bit red but nothing she couldn't cover. And her dark brunette hair, that was a mess.

Taking her time, she covered up all the flaws with a light coating of make up. Dark eye liner and mascara brought out her green eyes, and a dull red covered up her swollen lips. Luckily an other marks would be covered by clothing but the bruising around her neck was light enough to be covered by make up. With a quick brush of her hair, pulled into the usual loose sloppy bun that she found hid the stress of the day, she finally finished and it was only shortly after five. Peoplw would be arriving soon, and coffee would probably have been automatically prepared by now. Coffee would be the only thing to get her through the day.

Cleaning up quickly and putting everything away in her bag, she made her way back to her desk, locking his door behind her. With the bag hidden away in her desk once more, she put her heels on and tested the one that had been broken. It worked just fine, a good temporary fix until she could get home that night. Finally ready for the day she made her way to the break room and poured some coffee into her own large mug. It was early, but having nothing else to do, she made her way back to her desk to begin work, sipping the black coffee she hadn't tainted with cream or sugar. She needed the surge of the bitterness to keep her awake today. Maybe she could manage a nap in her car at lunch, but for now, work needed to be done.

 

[Niksis]

'Ugh, what did I do last night?'

Troy Halberd glanced around his bedroom, it was early, much too early to be awake considering the haze of booze and partying that he had done the night before. At least, as far as he remember. Glancing to his left, then his right Troy noticed a pair of blondes laying in his bed. Twins, by the look of it. A sight that caused a proud smirk to form on his lips "Now thisI do remember!" he exclaimed, though mostly to himself before he climbed out of bed. Movement which caused the resting women to stir a bit before settling back into a deep sleep.

His bedroom was massive and furnished by the most expensive company he could find, as was his entire house. A massive mansion located on the outskirts of town and of a custom design. Troy needed a few special rooms. Rooms that he could not show anyone and rooms that he barely visited alone. However rooms important to his hobby and desires.

Stretching and yawning, Troy moved to the large wall to wall mirror placed at the far end of his bedroom and looked at his naked self, something he enjoyed immensely. His black hair a mess, caused by whatever 'physical activities' that he and those twins had performed the night before. Nothing a long shower couldn't fix, of course. His cheeks and chin covered in a neatly trimmed black beard and as his gaze moved further up, he noticed a pair of deep brown orbs looking back at him, his own, of course, however he always had found his own eyes perfect. Running a hand through his messy hair, Troy looked at his body. A hard and toned body, the result of hours and hours spend in the gym, mixed with the most expensive nutritionists money could buy. It had been hard, but the result spoke for itself. As if carved from a block of marble, Troy took great care of his looks. Sure, he was vain, very much so in fact, but he didn't mind. He was rich, sexy and charismatic. Every girls dream, or most girls, anyway.

He had enjoyed great freedom ever since he hired Sophie. She was the perfect assistant and had come highly recommend by her former employer. Sure, she was not a cheap employee to have around, but the job she did was invaluable. While he would never admit it, she was running the company single handed while he was out spending the money he never had earned himself. Thought that crossed his mind for a second as he walked into the bathroom to take a much needed shower. 'Maybe I should get into the office today, make a show' he thought to himself as he allowed the hot water to cascade down his rippled body. He wasn't big, far from it. He didn't want to look like those stupid looking bodybuilders, no, Troy wanted to look athletic and had achieved that look. His back, arms, legs, chest and rear all hardened to the point of feeling like marble. Before stepping out of the shower, he made sure to pay extra attention to his groin. It was, like his beard, neatly trimmed just above the base of his large, flaccid shaft while everything else was cleanly shaven.

Stepping out, he looked over at the two blondes sleeping and called out "Wake up ladies, you have ten minutes to leave before I throw you out." Troy said as he walked over to his closet, pulling out a white dress shirt and a designer suit, Troy began to dress. He wasn't one to wear boxers, he didn't like to feel confined down there. So instead, he just put on his pants, his white shirt and his black blazer, making sure to keep the shirt unbuttoned at the neck, showing off his hard, tanned chest. Then moved to one of his drawers, which was full of designer watches in all shapes, colors and sizes. Looking through his collection, he eventually picked out a large black watch with a black leather strap. It would go well with his suit.

"Have my car ready." Troy ordered over the phone to the front gate guard. He wanted to go to the office and would need transportation. And as with everything else Troy owned, his cars were overly expensive, as if he was compensating for something. A snow white Lamborghini was brought out into the courtyard, fully fueled and already heated so he didn't have to drive in a cold car. "Thank you Jack, please throw out our guests. I don't want them cluttering my house." Troy ordered as he stepped into the car and drove off.

Morning Sophie, I'll be in the office in two hours. Please have a cup of coffee and a copy of our monthly rapport ready on my desk. Troy sent a text to his personal assistant, he really couldn't be bothered to sit around and wait for his morning coffee, besides, he had made sure she got a new mobile phone paid by the company for just this kind of situations... Well... not situations like this exactly, but her contract had mentioned that she would be expected to be available twenty four hours a day, seven days a week should something come up. Well, Troy was good at abusing this clause in her contract and would often have her pick up his dry cleaning. And that was just one of the many things he used her for. Not what she was hired for, sure. But she was being paid more than a normal assistant just because of that clause alone.

 

[Ms Catailia]

The brunette had been hard at work when she received the text. In fact, she was busy speaking with the research team about where they were in the development of a new product, a medicine for insomnia. The irony was not lost on her as she sipped her second cup of coffee that morning. She had even joked that she should be on the test group which was well received by the men as they laughed. Everyone was at ease around her since she started but even so she still demanded authority in Troy's absence. She just didn't feel the need to intimidate the way most bosses did and in the end, she had to remember she was on their level, merely a personal assistant when the boss was around. It always left a bitter taste in her mouth when she thought of it, or was reminded of it when Troy did come around the office. Luckily, she had coffee to mask that bitterness.

Dismissing the men, she pulled her flashy company issued phone off her desk and checked the text. Clicking her tongue against the back of her teeth, she wasn't very pleased he would be making an appearance. Sophie hated to be in his presence as he always seemed to demean those around him. He was cocky and pompous and seemingly didn't care who he rubbed wrong. He treated women well at first, but it was all for them to fall into his charms. Sophie had made it a point to wall herself off from that, knowing better than to fall for that sly smile. She had enough trouble dealing with a man at home, the last thing she wanted was to deal with Troy as well. The little tasks he had her do were tolerable, such as dry cleaning or take out when he was being especially lazy, but when he actually came to work, the air in the office changed. People grew more on edge and it seemed like that tension caused more mistakes in people. Not only that, but the way he treated her, looked at her, it just made her skin crawl. She deserved more respect than to be his little lap dog, but that was the contract she signed so that was what she had to deal with. Besides, the pay was almost double what she had been making before.

Looking forward to seeing you soon, Mr. Halberd.

She even managed to plaster a fake smile on her face as she sent the sham of a text in reply. Ever the professional. Two hours, what could she do to impress the man who didn't care in two hours? Maybe not impress, but how about force him to actually do his job. A smile came to her lips, a real one, as she decided on what to do. Spur of the moment meeting, why not? Calling all the necessary people, Sophie made sure to have the research department ready for a presentation precisely twenty minutes after Troy would be in. She had been urging him to see the work they were doing for a while but he had ignored every request. Now he had no way to back out of it.

Once that was out of the way, the research team having been prepared for over a week to do a presentation, she turned her attention to the report he requested. It had been done and caught up already but she wanted to make sure all the numbers were correct one last time. After working on that and a few other little tasks, she got up ten minutes before he said he would be in and went to his office. Unlocking the door once more she went in and turned on the premium coffee maker he had with his premium imported coffee. She almost had to roll her eyes at the extravagance but the smell of it was always wonderful when it filled his office. While she waited for it to brew, she opened his blinds to let in the natural light and made sure his computer was started and his desk was tidy and ready for him. Printing the report for his computer she left it in the printer as she prepared his coffee the way he liked it. Right on time, the cup of coffee in one hand, the report in the other, she made her way over to the elevator.

"Good morning, Mr. Halberd. Pleasure to see you in the office today," she spoke with a pleasant smile as soon as the doors opened and he entered. Immediately she handed him the coffee, knowing him enough now that the report could always wait until after that first sip. She got paid the big bucks, after all, because she was truly the best at her job.

 

[Niksis]

Even to this day, her professionalism and her uncanny knack for remembering even the smallest things, such as just how much sugar he wanted, the exact amount of coffee to be poured into his cup. Well, there were times when he counted himself lucky to have such a good assistant. Of course, in those moments he quickly dismissed the luck part and convinced himself it was just because he was that good. Perfection breeds perfection, or so he kept saying to himself. "Good morning Sophie, you look absolutely stunning this morning. Did you get a haircut?" he greeted her and motioned to his own hair as he asked his question, even going as far as throwing her a winning smile, even if he really only glanced at her. He had burned her appearance into memory. And while he would never admit it openly, she did enter his mind from time to time when he was either bored, lonely or drunk.

Bringing the cup to his lips, he took a hefty sip of the hot liquid. A pick-me-up to mask the signs of the heavy night he had the night before. Of course, having such a skilled assistant at his side, he had time for such endeavors. "How is my company doing?" he asked then, the tone suggested that he really didn't care. To him, it was a source of income given to him by his father. However he at least pretended to care, after all, should the company close down, his lifestyle would have to change. So he had to at least attempt to care. Not really listening to whatever answer she would give, Troy began to move towards his desk. He needed to sit down after such a long drive, a drive he probably shouldn't have made in his state. In the past, he would have flirted as if his life depended on it with the brunette, however he had quickly learned that it had little to no effect on his assistant. And it was what he liked about her, there were very few women who had rejected him, and those who had, became all the more interesting to him. To him, she was a challenge he had to overcome, a proof that he truly could get into bed with anyone. However at the same time, she was crucial to his company, he understood this, as such he decided against going all the way and was content with just the odd, mild flirting and lewd suggestions. Mostly meant as a joke to lighten the mood, he could tell others didn't find them funny, but he really didn't care in the end.

Taking off his blazer and placing it on the back of his chair before sitting down, Troy looked over at his assistant once more "So what's the program for today?" he wanted to try and get more hands-on with his fathers company, his company now, however he often got bored before he could get much done and decided to let more capable people do the work for him. However now he was here, so he might as well get something do. Show his employees that he cared for them and the company, even if he didn't. Taking another sip from the thick, black liquid of his cup, he reached over for the report in the printer. It was always there when he asked for one, another one of the small things she seemed to remember. Heck, she even remembered to ask for extra sauce when grabbing take away from him as well as made sure his clothes were left in his closet the right way out. Small things most wouldn't notice. But Troy wasn't most. Many of his small quirks and weird tendencies, was that he noticed even the smallest thing, a perfectionist by heart. He had noticed, but chose not to comment on it, the all but invisible bruise at her neck, the slightly darker complexion on her left cheek compared to her right one, as if someone tried to hide something with an extra layer of blush. Again, very small things that very few people would notice, but he did.

 

[Ms Catailia]

Ever the charmer. Simple comments that showed that feigned care all bosses had for their employees. Her hair was up, as it always was, the same way it always was. There wss no reason to believe she had a hair cut. "Thank you sir, but no hair cut for me." She spoke as if she was flattered by his attention but they both knew by this point that was the furthest she'd accept of his flirting nature. Sophie had shut him down before when he took a comment too far, off hand mentioning of needing to see HR had been all it took. That and the way she always brushed off his comments as if they were so meaningless. She wondered if it hurt his pride to not have her swooning over him like the rest of the female employees, but it couldn't be help. She could see the cold man beneath the smile and she had no interest in him.

Walking beside him, Sophie told him about how the company was doing. New development in the scientific department, more requests he would need to go over of companies wanting this and that from him, as well as good turn out of the company's expenses and gains. She left out the reseach department, knowing that was something entirely seperate she would need to disuss with him. The brunette always took this time trying to use the biggest words she could think of, knowing he was hardly paying attention as it was. Nightly she would send him a spread sheet that showed as bluntly as possible what had gone on that day as well as an email expressing when and what he would be needed for in the coming days. She wondered if he ever even looked at the emails she sent as he never seemed to respond to any of them and she was left handling everything. At this point, she figured it would be the same song and dance with them, his interest merely for show.

The fact that he asked about an agenda for the day left her slightly stunned, though she hid it well. He had never willingly asked for the plans she had when he actually came in but it was a pleasant surprise. "Well I'm glad you asked, sir. I actually have you scheduled to see a presentation by the research department in about fifteen minutes. They have started trial testing on the new anti insomnia medication and are eager to share their results for you. If you believe it has done well, you will need to approve the funding for marketing and pushing it through the FDA," she explained and suddenly realized she didn't have the papers to look over for the presentation. They were still sitting at her printer as she hadn't expected him to be willing to meet with them. "One moment."

Quickly she went to her desk and grabbed the papers, noticing the notification light on her cell phone which was sitting at her desk. If it wasn't Troy, which it couldn't have been considering he was sitting in his office, it had to be Christopher. Sighing, she didn't even bother to check as she turned back to Troy's office. Work was more important than hearing Christopher's usual apologies. Back in his office, she handed him the papers detailing the results of their testing. "It seems to me that it has done well. Over eighty five percent of those tested came back with reasonable improvements with their sleeping patterns and so far they have shown very limited side effects." Sophie seemed very knowledgeable about the results but that was simply because she paid close attention to all the workings of his company. It was all part of being good at the job. "Would you like me to escort you down to the research department? After that, if you have time I think it would be good for you to work on company morale as well as make a few calls to the companies interested in your business." She knew she was asking a lot of him but considering he was hard to ever find a chance to speak to, she had to drop it all on him when she had the chance.

 

[Niksis]

A genuine smile formed on his lips as he caught on to her trying to use the biggest word she could think of. It was true, he really didn't seem to show as much care for his company as he did himself. And truth be told, he would much rather be in bed wit the two twins than sit here. That said, Troy was a learned man. Though mostly because of his father. When he was young, his father had forced upon him the best education money could buy, even going as far as throwing the poor boy into Harvard. Any young businessman's dream, yet Troy had taken it lightly, if at all. However due to his quirky nature and attention to detail, he always seemed to get the answers right when asked. And when presentations were to be made, reports were to be handed in and eventually exams, he close to aced them. However due to is extravagant lifestyle, this had kinda faded into oblivion as attention was brought to his winning smile and beautiful face.

As such, he fully understood what she was saying and had caught on to what she was trying to do, it was fine though, he flirted with her, she subtly insulted him. It was a weird relationship in his mind. And he really did read all mails sent his way, carefully. Every single report, suggestion and presentation. All being read carefully, however he always had something get in the way before he could respond. Whether it was a woman he had brought back home, drink or one of his darker past times, he never got around to replying to them.

"Fifteen minutes? Well, I guess we better hurry then." Troy said with a confident smile on his lips. Sure, he knew very little about what his company actually did however, in a drunken haze of last night, he had decided to try and change that knowing full well it won't happen overnight. And he knew that Sophie would enjoy every single second of it, seeing him stumble around in the dark. Hopefully, he could use his good looks and winning charisma to get through it.

Taking the papers given to him, Troy glanced them over and took to memory as much as he could. He understood the words just fine, the numbers and graphs. But he lacked the context of it. She might as well have given him a large piece of papers with numbers on them, it made just as much sense in the moment. However, in an attempt to try and convince the brunette that he actually cared, if only a little, he looked through all of the papers before placing them in the portfolio she had delivered the rest of the reports in. "Very well, let's go see what these scientists have to say." Troy said as he motioned for her to lead the way. He knew where his office was, that one was easy, top floor. But he had no idea what was on the other floors, he really didn't go there unless he really had to. Which he often didn't since he had Sophie. So making the wiser decision, he decided to follow her instead, knowing full well that she knew everything and everyone. "Company morale? Isn't that what I pay HR to deal with? Very well, inform Marie down at the treasury that each employee will receive a five percent bonus next month for a job well done." he said, knowing full well the impact money could have on people. Sure, it wasn't a longterm solution, but he needed to take one step at a time. At this point, he was like an infant learning to walk. He could crawl, that was what he had Sophie for. But actually walking, that would require time.

Troy followed the brunette through the massive building of his company. The RnD department was on the eleventh floor, where as his office was on the twentieth. The ride was slow, and while the elevator stopped on the occasional floor in between, none of those who stepped into it seemed to greet Troy. Of course, he didn't blame them. He was rarely around and the average employee probably didn't know who he was. However once they reached the science department, they all stood ready. Eager to finally get a chance to present their findings to the CEO of the company. One of the scientists, a younger man seemed giddy, of course, he had all the right to be giddy, if their research proved tight, they might just have developed the cure for an ailment that plague a large part of the people of the world. While not as impactful as a cure to Cancer, it would touch almost as many people, if not more.

Eager to get this over with, though also slightly curious, Troy moved to sit down in one of the chairs that had been placed for him specifically "Alright, show me what you've got. You have fifteen minutes to convince me." Troy said as he crossed his legs and learned back into the chair. It wasn't a test, he had just seen in the movies that's what important bosses says to their employees, so he figured he'd try it.

"Fifteen minutes.... Got it." the giddy scientist said, not having expected such a blunt statement from a man who was rarely around. Though eager to show his findings, the man quickly turned on the projector and began going through the scientific process of the formula that they had created. Information that, while he understood the words used, didn't matter for Troy. The only real reason he was here, was to try and impress Sophie with how much he cared. The presentation was long, the longest fifteen minutes he had experienced. However to be fair, by the end of it they had even managed to convince Troy that this thing might be a success.

Mulling over the information he had been given, making sure to drag it out for his own amusement, Troy eventually turned to Sophie and nodded "Sounds solid, see to it that this gets pressed for approval and mass production gets started." Something told him that even if he had not approved it, she had probably gone ahead and done it in his name. Not that he would have minded, as long as it proved a success. However this was just another attempt to impress his assistant. Something he even proved as he learned over and whispered "Impressed yet?"

 

[Ms Catailia]

He continued to surprise her. She couldn't help but wonder what caused such a change in him as he told her to lead the way. He wasn't even trying to find a way out of this like he had so many times before. How strange. She did as he gestured though and led the way to the elevator. If she had been drinkinh something she may have spit it all out at his next comment though. She wasn't sure what she was more shocked by, the fact that he so willingly approved such a hefty bonus to every employee, even ones that may not deserve it, or that he knew the name of the person in payroll. Well, it was a woman, what more could she really expect from a man who seemed like such a womanizer. The five percent bonus though, was definitely not something to scoff at.

Sophie wanted to discuss the impact of such a brash decision but it had been such a shock she couldn't get her thoughts together as they made their way in the elevator to the RnD department. By the time she finally got a hold of herself, they had already arrived and the scientists were more than a little excited. This was such a rare opportunity for them so of course they were excited but it was clear they had little social understanding. They were excitable and unprofessional in a way, clearly nervous by the presence of someone so important. They reminded her of a little kid showing something they made to their father. Clearly the clichés about scientists not having any idea of how to deal with people was well warranted. She was happy for them though as this was what she had really been talking about when it came to morale, making a presence.

While he sat, she merely stood. The time limit, though she didn't understand why he gave it, was a good idea since she knew first hand how much they could ramble about one simple topic. Sophie understood everything the scientist said because she had overseen the whole project for a while. She had discussed with them what was necessary to move forward and had kept close tabs on their progress with the studies. That being said, it was still so boring and drawn out. By the end of it Sophie was concerned Troy may not have been able to keep up and understand all the facts. She doubted he'd be willing to throw money into something he didn't completely understand or see that it could turn a profit.

The waiting was like a game of Russian roulette. Every breath he took, movement he made, had everyone in the room anxiously awaiting his decision. Even Sophie's stomach was tight, knowing this product would be great for the market and a worth while investment. She couldn't imagine he would agree with it though because it would be such a hefty investment. She had plans to push it through regardless but if he said no, that would certainly put more risk to her job. Finally he spoke though and it was yet another shock. Who was this man and where was that predictable boss she had merely days ago? She was at a loss for words at his demand but nodded her head anyway. It was the most she could manage. The brunette had no idea what was going on.

"Of course sir, I'll get the process started as soon as possible," she finally managed as they made their way back to the elevator. The scientists were just as shocked but she knew the moment they left the employees would be partying it up. Then it became clear as she leaned over and whispered to her. She couldn't help the smile, impressed she really was. He had played the part of boss perfectly and she had even fallen for it. "Very good, sir," she smiled as they stepped into the elevator. She pressed the button to go back to their floor. "As far as the bonus goes though, I would recommend against it. I'd be willing to pick out a select few but by morale I was more so speaking about what we just did. Show up, be around, and speak to people. Half your employees don't even know who you are," she explained as the elevator moved slowly to their floor.

Sophie didn't exactly want him around all the time but in the end it would be better. She had hoped maybe he would take more of his responsibility, giving her more time to focus on other things and have more ability to go home on time. That also meant dealing with him more, but she could tolerate that if he was actually doing his job. He hadn't done so bad just now with the RnD department. Maybe he had it in him to be a good CEO after all.

 

[Niksis]

It would have been clear as rain that Troy really didn't know how many people were working for him. If asked, he would have guessed a hundred? Maybe two? With such numbers five percent would have been small change. Of course, in the Halberd building alone, somewhere closer to two thousand called that place their work. Twenty stories up, five down. They did everything in that one building. From RnD work, production to marketing and training. While a whole story was dedicated to leisure and relaxation. Though month start and month end, that place saw very little use due to how busy everyone was. So of course, the five percent would be a crazy bonus and most likely throw the company closer to the bottom line than it had ever been. But then again, it was exactly for times like these, that Troy had hired Sophie. To keep him in line and tell him how stupid his ideas was. As such, he nodded in agreement with her, she knew best after all, "Alright Sophie, whatever you think is best." he said when the doors to their elevator closed.

He understood what she meant. He could see it when he showed up on the science floor, they had been eager. Much like a kid wanting to please their father. Of course, he had attributed it to himself. I mean, who wouldn't wish to please him when he entered the room? Troy thought to himself, mentally stroking his huge ego. It was one of the things he was good at. That and lying. He was really good at that too. "Well, what do you suggest then? I go around talking to everybody? That's not going to happen." Troy said sternly, he didn't mind spending fifteen minutes with a bunch of nerds, but walking around greeting everyone, that was not him. The women, sure, he could be convinced for that, but everyone? Nah, that was not going to happen.

The trip back up again was long and slow, though it did give Troy a chance to check out his assistant. Even if she had rejected any and all attempts to invite her out, he could not deny that she was beautiful, sexy even. The way she dressed, the way she walked and the way she carried herself. It amused him slightly, he was very verbal about how sexy he was, or at least, how sexy he thought he was. The only difference between the two, in his mind, was that she was far more subtle about her sexiness than he was, though in the end, they were very much alike on that part. It wasn't perhaps entirely true, but the thought did cause a small smirk to form on his lips.

Once they reached the twentieth floor again, Troy stepped out of the elevator and then into his large office. Where he moved to sit back down in the large designer chair he had custom ordered for him when he took over. It had cost him a small fortune, well, it had cost the company a small fortune, but the prize was well worth it. "This 'work' thing is much harder than I thought. I need a drink." Troy said, though mostly to himself, he really, genuinely wanted to be more around work, but it was near impossible to change a habit overnight, however he was conflicted. He really didn't want to do it, but at the same time, he wanted to prove to himself and the brunette that he could do it. Another challenge, this one aimed at himself.

Placing both legs on the large mahogany table, Troy learned back "So, what's next on the agenda?" he called out to Sophie, curious what she had in mind and silently hoping her answer would be something along the lines of 'Go home'.

 

[Ms Catailia]

"I actually think that's exactly what needs to happen but I wouldn't be speaking about a one day event. In fact, I believe it would be near impossible to speak to everyone in this building in just one day." She was finding humor in this, in telling him exactly what he didn't want to hear. The truth was if he had just been around from the start he never would have had to do anything like this. He was the one who dug his own hole but at this point, if he planned on having any part of this business, he would need his employees to know who he was and what he expected. There was no better way of doing that than face to face meetings with everyone. Every last person he employed. "If you are willing to commit, I can write you up a schedule to have you meet everyone within the next month. It might seem a bit daunting but it certainly wouldn't hurt your bottom line. And don't you think acting your way through a few conversations would be better than paying a small fortune to please people?"

Sophie knew just how to play him. How to make him interested and get what was necessary all at the same time. That was part of her job after all, making sure her boss was pleased and working well. When they finally arrived at the twentieth floor, she followed him to his office. The brunette could already see his boredom for work and knew there was only so much more she could ask of him before he would be burnt out and maybe not bother to return again for a while. She needed to tread lightly, especially at the mention of needing a drink. Wouldn't they all enjoy a drink to get them through the day though? Sophie certainly wished she had her coffee though, the fatigue of the night before catching up to her.

"I think it would be best for you to take some time becoming acquainted with some companies that would like your business. As you'll see, I left a file on your computer desktop explain what companies they are, what they are known for and what they are interested in," she explained, leaning over his desk to see his computer screen, using the mouse to open the file. She wasn't thinking about the provocative position she was in, giving a clear view down her blouse. Sometimes she was too professional for her own good, not thinking that anyone could take advantage when you were speaking business.

Once the document was open on his screen she righted herself once more, brushing her bangs from in front of her eye and flinching ever so slightly when her fingers brushed her bruised cheek. Instantly growing defensive from it, she worked to gather his attention at her words. "If you spend a few hours researching these people and giving them calls based on what you want to do with their business, then I'll let you go home by lunch. Don't want to burn you out and scare you away from another day's work." Her words were meant to be taken lightly, no matter how true or rude they may have seemed. She was trying to jest with him though, make light of a situation she knew he didn't want to deal with. Troy wasn't one to care about work but he was necessary in ways she couldn't maneuver around. Sure, she could give the go head here and there and submit things in his name, but big business decisions like these were better left with the boss, whether either of them liked it or not.

 

[Niksis]

Troy knew of his shortcomings, he wasn't blind nor stupid. But with that said, he really didn't care either. Well, he did care. He cared what people thought of him, his image was everything. And he cared about Sophie, or rather, he cared for her opinion. He knew that without her, his company could not work. And if she said he had to do something, even if he didn't want to, he knew the importance of it. It was probably something they both knew, yet never spoke aloud. He was her boss, but she had control over him, at least, somewhat control. So when she suggested he spend more time at the office, he knew that he had to. He knew how much she despised him, or perhaps more accurately, didn't like him. So for Sophie to suggest him being around more, well, it seemed appropriate. "Fine," he started with a sigh "Put together a meeting with the head of every department, as well as two of their most importance employees. We don't want to bother them too much in their busy lives." Troy said, it was an excuse for not meeting with everyone, an excuse he hoped, no, he prayed that Sophie could see the rationality in and accept.

And when she learned in over the desk, Troy couldn't help but stare. How could he not? She was extremely beautiful, with curves just the right places and judging from her clothes, or lack thereof in some places, he knew, that she knew just what she was working with and how to perfect it. And a million different, dirty images flooded his mind, in his mind he had just had sex with her a thousand times in only a few seconds, every single position ever invented and even some still undiscovered, on places that didn't even exist in his office yet. Though her words pulled him out of his otherwise nice reverie. "Yes, you're right of course. Fine, I'll promise to look through the report that you will be making for me before you go home on all of our business partners and what they do." Troy said, though that was when a small smile formed on his lips, he had an idea "If you have dinner with me tonight."

It was a gamble, he had just placed everything on red and hoped for the best, an all in some might call it. And even if she would refuse his offer, he would still go through the trouble of reading what she sent him. He always did, and he put every single suggestion she often added to the reports to memory, but as with everything, something always came up that took his attention way. Though mostly, it was a woman he had brought home, willing or otherwise. That was one of his darker past times. It was one of the reasons he often slept in and seemed distant. Despite his looks and charisma, and despite the fact that he could, to some extent, get any woman he wanted by just smiling to her, he craved something else, something darker. He loved to have control and hated giving up on it. And since Sophie took all of the control from his at work, he had to get it someplace else. It was what he did at night, or most nights. He would drug and kidnap women, rape and abuse them in his cellar, film them and blackmail them into silence. He couldn't tell anyone, of course, that would just be stupid. But still, it was a way to regain the control his assistant had taken from him.

 

[Ms Catailia]

She couldn't help the humored smile when he figured out a way to not mewt with everyone. Sophie had to admit though, it was a much smarter and easier plan. It would still show his commitment to his job and boost his image overall with the company. "Of course sir, I'll get that schedule set up and sent to you by the end of the day." For some reason it seemed she would end up with more work having him around than she already dealt with. But once he got more used to the job, if that were going to be the case, she was sure the work load would even out eventually. It wasn't like she didn't mind the work though, she certainly loved her job and the amount of responsibility she had, but the amount of hours she had been putting in recently was taking a toll on her and her home life.

Sophie had been willing to accept writing up a report for him if it meant having him speak with some of the more important people his company was connected to, but then he mentioned dinner. It actually made her pause, just staring at him for a moment as she let the request sink in and thought about what it could mean. He had said it so casually, as if it was such a normal thing like a business meeting or something, but she knew him better than that. She had heard he wasn't gentle with the girls he was interested in and the ones he flirted with and charmed were unimportant in his life. She wasn't sure if he was asking for a date, or something more casual, or maybe something professional. He wasn't stupid enough to jeopardize the good thing he had going with her working and basically running his business while he screwed around.

Not only that but she was already exhausted. By the end of the work day she will have been up an entire forty hours. She wasn't even sure she could make it through a meal dealing with his pompous attitude. Although the prospect of going home and dealing with Christopher did not sound very appealing either. Then there was also the clause in her contract stating she was to be available to him twenty-four hours, seven days a week. This certainly would classify under that clause. Sighing, she realized she didn't have much choice and even if she did, going home didn’t sound like much of an option. "Okay. If you put in an entire work day and call up those other companies, I will go to dinner with you tonight. Now if you'll excuse me, sir, I have plenty of work to try to get finished today." She sounded as professional as ever, no resentment in her voice but no excitability either. Turning to leave she stopped at the door to say one last thing. "Don't disappoint, Mr. Halberd."

 

[Niksis]

Troy may be many things, but stupid was not one of them. He had no intention of compromising what he viewed as a healthy and near perfect relationship with his assistant. She was a crucial part in the running of the company and indirectly, she was the reason he could live such a carefree life that he did. It was because of women like Sophie Pyrce and her dedication to her job that allowed his company to live and prosper. As such, despite the reputation he carried with him, the invitation to dinner hadn't been with an ulterior motive. He was hungry and wanted to bring his assistant. Of course, it had become somewhat of a game to him, to try and see if he could win over Sophie. And this small thing, this invitation was a victory in his book. Even if it was forced as she really couldn't say no.

"Don't worry, Sophie. I never disappoint. You should know this by now."Troy said with confidence in his voice. Sure, he wasn't the perfect boss. But he'd like to think that he never disappointed. You could always count on him either being flirtatious, inappropriate, seemingly lazy and a womanizer to the core. "Oh, and by the way. Since this was your idea, I want that report before you go home. Log in overtime if you have to." he said right before she left his office, not really caring that she might have to stay in longer. In his mind, he was more important in her life, than her life was. That was a bit of a stretch on the contract, sure. But as long as she didn't complain, then he wouldn't change anything. Besides, even if she always tries to find ways to insult him or his intelligence without breaking professionalism, and even if he's constantly flirting and not trying to hide the fact that he'd want to do very inappropriate things with her, to her and in her, he still viewed Sophie with respect. It took strength of character to reject Troy, few women had this strength. And she was extremely good at what she did. In fact, Troy knew that without her, he wouldn't be able to keep this company, and if he couldn't keep the company, he couldn't have the lifestyle that he did.

And of course, being who he was, as she was leaving his office, Troy couldn't help but stare at her ass swaying left and right with each step. She sure knew what assets she had and how to use them, that much was clear.

 

[Ms Catailia]

Overtime. It felt like all she had been doing recently. The idea of having to do it today on no sleep did not even sound possible, but ever the professional, she didn't once complain or show the fatigue she was already feeling. Sophie had learned at a young age that they only way to succeed in the world was to not be a girl. Girls complained, they whined even. Girls needed their beauty sleep. Girls needed assistance and to be walked step by step through something multiple times. Girls merely were a means to give respect, not demand it. Growing up with one of the biggest men on Wall street as her dad, she had been constantly taught this. And by the time she learned the rush of winning against men, 'sugar,' as he called her, would be a distant regrettable girl she left behind. No, she wanted to be Sophie Pyrce, one of the big dogs her dad told her she could never sit at the same table with since she was just a puppy.

"This table is for the dogs, sugar. Men at work. Go play with the other puppies."

In his eyes the most she would ever amount to was to look cute and corral the many puppies she was supposed to pop out for the big dog in her life. But in order to impress, fight back against the stereotype that had been ingrained in her, she couldn't just succeed in becoming a big dog, she also had to look sexy and personify the amazing woman she was. That was why she was so good at her job. That was why she didn't complain, didn't focus on sleep, didn't need help and taught herself everything so no one would have to teach her. That's what made her Sophie Pyrce.

By the end of the day though, now pushing nine as she finished her last report, a cold pillow and warm bed was now sounding like a luxury she may never experience again. She had even had to apply more make up under her eyes around lunch time, which other than doing that, she had worked through. Emailing him the final report and printing it out for him as well, Sophie turned off her computer with a sigh. Finally. But based on the amount of missed calls and angry text messages unchecked on her cell phone, she wasn't even going to bother to try to go home. She'd have to get a hotel room somewhere near by and use her second emergency stash of clothing in her car.

Grabbing the papers as she stood from her desk, she remembered dinner and couldn't help the cringe that momentarily came to her expression. It wasn't a reaction to having dinner with him specifically, but just having dinner at all. She was ready to ignore food entirely if it meant getting an extra hour of sleep. Although dinner with Troy would probably be drawn out to two or three hours. He was so casual about time it sometimes baffled her how he managed to get anything done.

Hiding her distain at having to stay awake longer, she made her way back into his office with the reports. On her last few steps to his desk her heel decided it couldn't make it a moment more. "Shit!" She managed the moment she fell forward, her stride having been too heavy to correct herself. Papers flew out of her hands as she reached out and slapped her hands against his desk to catch herself from falling. By the time the last paper floated to the ground she was bent over his desk in front of him, looking disheveled simply from the long day and event that just occurred. Giving herself a moment to recover, her heart pounding from the adrenaline rush of almost falling, she moved to lean her hip against the desk and brought her foot up to look at the destroyed heel. "I apologize, sir," she spoke quickly the moment she remembered she was in his office, having done all this in front of him.

Clearly embarrassed with herself she moved to kneel down and gather all the papers, frantically trying to get the all in order. She had never made such a fool of herself in front of someone so important before. Sophie was a flustered mess as she stood up and brushed her hair out of her eyes, holding out the uneven papers to him. She was standing as though there was nothing wrong with her heel, faking it with ease as she held the broken part in her hand. "That's the final report, Mr. Halberd. I also emailed it to you," she spoke in an even voice, trying to pretend she hadn't just completely embarrassed herself but she couldn't hide the touch of pink that betrayed her cheeks.

 

[Niksis]

Troy had spent most of that evening looking through some of the information Sophie had given him earlier as well as the report he had asked for when he came in. Despite seemingly uninterested in the company, he has attempted to at least be more visible, or pretend to be at least. Gotta start somewhere. As such he had not seen the time when his assistant came into his office carrying a thick bundle of papers. Of course, the matte windows surrounding him didn't do a good job of telling what time it was, as everything was shaded and dark anyway. Though from the rumble in his stomach, Troy could guess that it was probably getting late'ish. "Ah, Sophie. You have the report?" he asked when she moved towards him with the grace and beauty of a ballet dancer. She really did know how to move. So when she stumbled he was caught off guard, she was the last he'd expect to fall wearing heels. She wore them so nicely. Even so, when she fell forward, Troy rose in his chair. And while he would have no chance of catching her, when she did fall in over the table his hand did land on hers, if nothing else than to show that he tried. With her bend in over his table like she was and with him doing the same to try and help, their heads came close. Close enough that it would be near impossible to slide a piece of paper down between them. It lasted for a second, if even that, when they both finally straightened back up again.

When she apologized, Troy answered with a slightly amused smile on his lips, "Don't worry about it Sophie, you okay?" If one looked hard, they might find a hint of concern in his features. Despite what she thought, and what he would admit, she did mean a lot to him, in more ways than one. Stepping around the large wooden table, Troy knelt down to help her collect the papers when she did so, it had been an accident and despite what she might think, he wasn't all that bad. And once again, as they both reached out for the last piece of paper, their hands met again. Nothing was going to come of it, as Troy quickly pulled his hand back, for fear of it looking like harassment or sexual assault and instead rose back to his feet and accepted the uneven, slightly ruined stack of paper.

Troy looked her over again and something was off. He couldn't put a finger on it, but something was wrong. And it wasn't hair that was a dishevelled mess nor the broken shoe. No, he could have sworn he saw something in her eyes, or was it the layered make-up that he had caught earlier that day. "Are you sure everything is okay?" he asked again. Not ready to drop the topic. Sure, she had worked hard the past couple of days. But she had done so in the past without incident. Yet something was odd about that day. When he had come in, he had seen signs of something being covered, bruises they appeared. It hadn't been the first time, but those that he could make out from beneath the almost perfectly applied make-up was worse than he had seen in the past. And it worried him, he needed his assistant to be in tip-top shape. How else would she be able to run his company for him?

Checking his designer watch, Troy looked back over to Sophie and gave her a weak smile, "Why don't we take dinner another day. Go home, Sophie. Get some rest." his tone was more caring than he had ever spoken in the past. Where he used to be cold, detached or otherwise concomitant when he said things that didn't include him, this time he had spoken with the voice of someone who cared. Not something he often did. Sophie was professional, he knew this to heart. She would keep anything a secret if it would make her look weak, he understood this. But he still cared for her, and even if she would have sworn her bruises wasn't there, or didn't affect her, Troy was not convinced. Maybe it wasn't the physical bruises, but the mental ones. Troy had seem them before, in fact, he had caused them countless of times in the past. And would inflict the bruises on women again in the future, he couldn't help himself. Yet around Sophie, he was calm and collected. Not prone to the outburst of violence that plagued his life nor his dark desires of inflicting pain on young women. She calmed him with her presence alone. Granted he would never admit this to anyone. Imagine the ego she would get if she learned what exactly she meant to him. The control she had over him without even knowing it. And without even asking for it.

 

[Ms Catailia]

Who was this man before her? Surely she wasn't looking at Troy Halberd, CEO of Halberd Industries. Because if she wasn't mistaken, there was a look of concern in his eyes and she had never known the man was capable of that. It visible shocked, causing her guard to come down for that moment as she tried to make sense of what she was seeing. Sophie couldn't even gather the words to lie about the condition she was in, knowing that in this state before him, with that concern in his eyes, only the truth would come out if she opened her mouth. To further the shock and awe, he canceled his request for dinner so that she could rest, because of that, it took her far too long before she managed a response.

"Oh," she finally spoke as if coming to from being in a trance. Her eyes adverted from his, unable to face his concern any longer. The idea of go home was not appealing in the least. Home was the last place she wanted to be or should even go to get rest. Was she that visibly obvious though? Was her fatigue and wear really showing past the professional demeanor she was trying to maintain? Not only that, but could everyone see it, or was Troy actually paying more attention to her than she ever thought he was. She was too tired for all this, to wrap her mind around what was happening in this moment. It was all too confusing to understand while in this condition. Bringing a hand up to her eyes, she pinched the bridge of her nose to try to gather herself, her eyes closed as she focused hard on just being able to stand with the missing part of her heel.

Bringing her hand back down to her side, she opened her eyes and looked at him once more, feeling more composed. "Thank you, sir. I'll make sure to get plenty of rest," she spoke with a forced smile to show she was okay. She would certainly get plenty of rest at a hotel, far away from home.  She was still struggling to understand who this man before her was, though. Maybe the concern was just because he didn't want to lose a hardworking employee though. Maybe it wasn't specifically for her. Could he be concerned that she couldn't handle her job anymore? The thought sparked something inside her, causing her to grow more frustrated with herself. She never wanted to be seen as weak, especially not in the eyes of her boss. That was just unacceptable.

"But are you sure, Mr. Halberd? I could stand a good meal on my boss' dime," she said with a smirk. What better of a way to prove she was fine than to challenge him with her words, tease him. She wouldn't go down without a fight. The only way she'd be stopped, showing her weaknesses, was if fatigue caused her to pass out, but she didn't expect that to happen. Sophie convinced herself she was fine. What was a few more hours without sleep? Tomorrow was Friday after all and she could sleep all weekend if she needed to. For now, she saw no reason not to eat well, get a few hours of rest at a hotel and then deal with Christopher after another day of work tomorrow. It wasn't like he would be any worse whether she faced him now or in another day.

 

[Niksis]

His intention had not been to test her, it had been genuine though if he could read her thoughts, he would never have admitted that openly. He had an image to uphold. The image of a cold, heartless womanizer who only put himself and his personal desires before anyone else. Though the truth was that he simply could not imagine a life without Sophie, even in their current, weird and slightly unhealthy relationship. And he was paying attention to her, actually. Whenever she'd come to work with a new haircut, he'd notice first thing he'd come in. If she changed her lipstick or the color of her nails he'd notice. Even if she changed her perfume, he'd notice. It was unhealthy how much attention he paid to his assistant, however he did everything and anything he could to hide it. He'd rather be marked as a creepy stalker than a caring boss.

"I'm sure, Sophie. Besides..." he said, leaning to one side as if looking at something in the distance, "Judging from how your phones been vibrating non-stop the past seven minutes, I assume someone else wants your attention." Troy said. He didn't like sharing, never had. The moment someone had something he didn't, he'd get it. If someone got something better, he would too. If someone was talking with his girlfriend, he'd either beat them up or have someone do it for him. He didn't share and knowing that his assistant, had a boyfriend had always bothered him. To Troy, it meant she was cheating on him with someone else. It had been one of the reasons he'd always ask her to do overtime, he wanted her for himself, she belonged to him. Or at the very least, her attention twenty-four-seven should be on him, on Troy.

Despite his tendencies for darker acts, Troy did not know where Sophie lived. Had he known, especially after he began noticing the bruises or darker marks under her makeup, he would have gone to her place and made sure Christopher would eat through a straw for the rest of his life. Luckily, he didn't know his name nor where they lived. So Troy had to be content with just using excuses to have her around more.

"Tell you what, I'll pick you up in the morning. We'll get some breakfast. How does that sound?" he countered. Troy really wanted to spend more time with Sophie and all he needed was an excuse. However as much of an ass he was, seeing her like this, seemingly at her breaking point, it pained him. Pained him deep inside. Knowing that someone else had this sort of control over her angered him.

 

[Ms Catailia]

He denied her. Troy actually stood there and denied her. Sophie felt so lost and confused. She must have been too tired to not be able to wrap her head around everything that was happening. Maybe she was just imagining things. Maybe she was dreaming. But he drew her attention to her phone, which she hadn't realized how loud the vibration was. The brunette had learned how to tune out the sound of it, especially when she was avoiding Christopher. Green eyes stared in the direction of her phone for far too long as she tried to think of what to do. She felt like she was processing things so slowly now, the hours were weigh on her. Was she light headed or just tired? All this energy she had used just trying to keep up with this strange occurrence.

"Yes, of course," she said as though she had no idea what she was agreeing to. He probably thought she was acting strangely, avoiding her boyfriend and insisting on dinner with her boss. Sophie reminded herself she had to be careful, she couldn't let anyone clue onto what she was dealing with at home. Not only would it be bad for Christopher, she would be seen as a victim and she couldn't stand for that to happen. She knew how people would look at her if word ever got out, the pity in their gaze. It would follow her career and she would be left with not knowing if she was being handed praise for her work out of pity or because she actually deserved it. That probably wasn't the case, but Sophie had convinced herself of that fact. She felt it a necessity to keep her personal life and her private life seperate.

"I really should get home. I suppose I didn't realize the time." It was a pathetic excuse compared to what she normally came up with but at this point she was lucky to even be standing, let alone functioning enough to lie. She thought that would be the end of it but then he offered breakfast. Not really giving it much thought, she turned back to him with another forced smile, though she wasn't pulling them off as well as she normally did. "Breakfast then it is," she spoke in that same feigned interest she always gave him. At least they had moved off the topic of her boyfriend. And then she realized, her smile fading as she looked down. She had just agreed for him to pick her up at home, which would mean that she would actually need to be at said home. Facing Christopher in this state was not an option though.

Quickly she struggled to grasp at an excuse or something to say. Normally she would brush off her approval with a snarky comment, telling him she doubted he'd even show so if he really wanted to do breakfast he could just bring it into the office tomorrow, or claim that she just remembered she had too much work to do and needed to come in early. But she was too tired and worn down from the day and her worries of Christopher and being exposed. She couldn't gather the right thoughts and just as she had been worried about before, the truth spilled from her lips. "Actually I just planned on staying at a hotel tonight." Crap! What had she done? How was she supposed to explain that without making herself look bad in some way. "I mean, I'm pretty tired so I was just going to walk to a nearby hotel so I can get some sleep instead of having to drive all the way home." She sealed her words with her eyes on him, another smile she was struggling to hold.

The flaws in all her statements were glaringly obvious. Sophie felt like such a mess in front of Troy. She had just gone from insisting on dinner to admitting something she promised herself she'd never admit to. Girls need their beauty sleep. It was better than being a victim, admitting to that, but suddenly she felt so stripped of the big dog status she had fought so hard for. She had succumbed to being sugar once more, having backed herself into a corner with Troy. The shame and guilt of that played across her features. Had she been more self aware, she may have lashed out at Troy to try to redeem herself but instead she stood there before him feeling so vulnerable.

 

[Niksis]

Troy was smiling, it wasn't a forced one nor was it a mocking smile. He was finally seeing the real Sophie. Not the professional, fake one he had seen the past few weeks. She seemed strong, confident and independent. But now he saw the real Sophie. Without control, without strength. She was weak, fragile and vulnerable; just like the women he would take home and abuse. To him, now she was more beautiful than ever. "A hotel?" Troy asked, curiosity oozing from his tone. Why would she stay a hotel? Was it because of the bruises? Intentionally or not, the pieces were slowly coming together now. At first, he had thought she was being clumsy, but now. She came to work with near perfectly covered bruises and was fatigued. And now, when she is off, she doesn't want to go home. The signs had been there all along, he had just missed the last one, the last piece of the puzzle.

Troy stepped over to where Sophie stood and placed a hand on her shoulder first as he spoke again "I won't allow my own personal assistant to be sleeping at a hotel. It reflects badly on me." what he was about to suggest he knew she wouldn't accept. So he needed to word it right, he needed to give her a chance to come out on top and feel like she wasn't being taken care of, that she was simply doing her job. Allowing his hand to gracefully slide down her back where he placed the flat of his palm against her lower back he spoke again as he gently guided her towards the exit "You will stay with me tonight. I have a spare room you can borrow. And no, this is not an offer, it's an order from your boss."

As he spoke, Troy continued to gently push her forward. Using, or perhaps abusing the confusion she found herself in as well as the fragile state to get what he wanted. The offer, or request, had been genuine though. Granted he understood if she might not hear is at genuine, but it was. "Besides, I won't be home most of the night. So I won't bother you." Troy added with a smile on his lips. He had... urges that needed to be satisfied and he was not about to compromise the relationship he had with Sophie to have it go out on her.

 

[Ms Catailia]

Sophie flinched when she felt him touch her shoulder. Normally she would have pulled away but she was barely able to stand as it was on one broken heel and no sleep. She didn't understand how a hotel could seem bad but she wasn't about to argue, expecting to lie to him and tell him she would go home after all, but she would have to deal with the reprocussions of not being there to be picked up for breakfast. He didn't leave her with the option though as he spoke about her staying with him, his hand now sliding down to rest of her lower back. This would not have been okay if she had been in a normal state. Sophie hated being touched physically ever since the abuse started. She strayed away from it, especially from men of higher power. But as it were, she was exhausted, so much so she actually leaned against him as they walked toward the elevator. It was easier to use him as a prop with her heel broken.

She didn't care anymore. He tried to assure her and smooth the demand over by saying it was an order from her boss and that he wouldn't be home anyway, but she didn't care at this point. In her eyes she had already admitted defeat when she confessed about needing sleep. Sugar just didn't have it in her to do anymore fighting or bickering. Troy had control for now and she would have to live with those reprocussions tomorrow if they came. But as of right now, she just needed some sleep and time away from Christopher. She didn't care where she had to go to get it. She didn't even care that she was leaving her phone behind and not even informing Christopher. Quietly, without verbally agreeing to anything, she let him lead her onto the elevator.

The ride down felt like it would last forever. By the time they got just eight floors down she had her eyes closed as she rested against Troy. She didn't even think about how odd this all was, his concern and her being so close to him. She didn't think about how vulnerable she was or how this may change how he viewed her from now on. She had no more energy to fight, the worries of her life having overcome her after fourty plus hours of no sleep. The image she fought to maintain, the abuse she fought to hide, the job she was forced to maintain for Troy, it all came together in a neat little bundle of heavy weight on her shoulders. It was easy to carry on a normal day, but today had not been normal. She had been abused last night, she had gotten no sleep and then her absent boss made an appearance and made it a point to suddenly change everything she expected of him. So it all led to this moment of vulnerability, giving him all the power for the first time since she started working for him.

 

[Niksis]

Troy took the control she had given him, he intended on nursing it, building on it until such a point where he really had control. He knew it was temporary, that once she had gotten some food, some rest and had a chance to think things through, she'd be back to the old Sophie. His window was brief but he intended to use all of it to his gain. So when she learned against him, he'd squeeze her ever so slightly against him. Just to prove to her, prove to Sugar that he had control. That she needed him, needed Troy, at least for the time being.

The duo reached the basement. At this hour it was almost empty, only having the few vehicles present that belonged to the night shift or the security guards working at the time. Keeping Sophie close, with his arm around her waist so she could learn against him for support, he guided them both to where his car was parked. An expensive Ferrari paid in cash of course, because he could. Gently, as if she might break, Troy guided her into the passenger seat before closing the door. "Just sit back and relax, Sophie." he said calmly as he walked to the other side of the car and got in. The trip would be an hour, maybe two. Enough that she might easily fall asleep during the drive itself. But he drove as fast as he could, only occasionally glancing over at her to make sure she was still alive.

After a few hours, Troy drove up to the security guard stationed outside of his massive mansion, "Evening Bob. Mind opening the gate?" he said with a smirk, glancing over at Sophie again to see if she was asleep. "Sure thing boss." he said and buzzed the gates open. The house was big, massive even. Far bigger than what one person would ever use, or need. Parking the car outside the stairs leading up to the front door, Troy turned the car off and walked over to the passenger seat. Opening the door, he reached in and lifted Sophie from the seat, carrying her much like a husband would his wife on their wedding night and brought her inside the large house.

The many hours spend in the gym paying off as he carried her for a good 10 minutes through the house. Up stairs, through doors and eventually he reached the master bedroom, hisbedroom. That's where he laid her down on the bed, even going as far as tugging her in under the duvets before he eventually walked out of the room. He had promised to leave her alone and he had all intentions of doing just that. Besides, he had a guest in the basement tied up that required his attention. A guest he had 'entertained' for a few days now. It was how he let go from the hard realities of work and every day life.

 

[Ms Catailia]

She had to admit, having his arm around her, holding her close and securly against him, there was something pleasant about it. She could smell the rich cologne he wore and feel the warmth from his body. His shirt was soft against her cheek as she allowed her whole weight to be leaned into him. By the time they got to the car, the basement cold from the night air, she was relieved for help as she sat down into the car. It was an expensive car but she didn't expect anything less from him. She couldn't even place the name of it in her mind but she knew it must be European. That being said, she was more impressed by how comfortable the seat was than anything else. With her seatbelt on, she didn't even need his words of encouragement before she leaned her cheek on the strap and closed her eyes.

Sophie didn't care how far away he lived. It could be a ten minute drive or a few hours but she'd be damned if she didn't take this opportunity to get some sleep. It came easy with the motion of the car and the quiet hum of the drive. In the end it was probably for the best that he took her to her place, as she likely would have drove to the nearest hotel and probably would have fallen asleep at the wheel. She was so exhausted that, by the time he arrived at his security gate, she hadn't even roused from the exchange between the guard and him. Even when he closed his door after getting out or opening her door and the cool air hit her face, she was still fast asleep. It was clear how exhausted the poor woman was and how much she really needed sleep. It was amazing she had even made it through the day but the five black coffees had certainly helped on that front.

When he reached in to pick her up she instinctively pressed her body into him, having not awoken from the changing scenery or comfort beneath her. She was peacefully asleep within his arms as he carried her. Her weight was pretty average, she wasn't particularly skinny but she also wasn't over weight. Her body had curves and definition but she also made sure to exercise regularly, or at least when she had time. It was clear that she took care of her body, maintaining control in that aspect as with most else in her life. Once the bed was under her, her body shifted to her side almost immediately, showing the way she favored laying. The soft blankets and the luxury feel off the bed enveloped her and assisted in the best sleep she had ever experienced in her life.

The sun was what awoke her. Sophie had always been sensitive to the sun and could never sleep once the room lit up. She had black out curtains in her own home so she could actually sleep in on the weekends. During the week it didn't matter since she was always up before the sun. So when she actually woke up because the room was bright with the sun's warmth, she was more than a little confused. Sitting up in bed her green eyes scanned the room in a groggy fashion. Where was she? Even with waking up in a strange place she had never seen before, Sophie was still as calm as ever. Then she remembered vaguely how Troy had told her she would stay at his house. With a sigh she fell back against the bed and brought her hands to her face, her palms rested against her eyes while her slender finger rubbed at her scalp through her hair. What had she done? He was going to take advantage of this for sure.

It couldn't be help though, what was done, was done. Now she would just have to do damage control. Still feeling like she needed more sleep, she did feel rather rested though as she pulled back the covers and got out of bed. At least she hadn't woken up to him next to her. She glanced at the clock, around six am, as she found her way to the bathroom. So this was how a lazy CEO lived, in luxury. Sophie took a look at at all the expensive products before turning to look at herself in the mirror. Her hair was a mess and her make up was smeared. She assumed she hadn't bothered to grab her bag last night so she had no make up to put on. All she could do was wash what she was wearing off and hope the damage wasn't too bad underneath.

The brunette took her time washing her face with warm water, using it to help wake her up completely. After that she took her hair out and ran her hand through it to remove any knots before putting it up once more. She really needed a shower but she was sure she didn't have any clothes to change into, finding Troy would have to come first as she didn't know what he expected from her now. Would he allow her time to run home and shower before coming into work? She would just do so here and save some time but again, unless he took her car last night, which she remembered he didn't, she didn't have anything to change into. Making her way out of his room now, she looked around the lavish house, not even knowing where to begin to even find the front door. "Mr. Halberd?" She called out, feeling mildly irritated that his house was so large and maze like.

 

[Niksis]

No reply echoed through the massive building when she called out for him. The only reply she would receive was the echoes of her own words. The house was big, with a lot of unused rooms. Of course, being as wealthy as he was, they were still furnished in a very ornate and expensive design, like everything else. The floors covered in authentic Indian silk and each door frame and wooden furniture ornately and intricately carved from only the best logs of oak. And like everyone else who had power, wealth and a massive ego, Troy had paintings of himself on almost all the walls. Ranging from him in a suit, to him riding a lion naked while wielding a sword. Anything ones mind could conjure up and he had it painted. He even had a remake of The Last Supper with him as Jesus. How's that for an ego?

The house was built like a maze in purpose. Troy had a dark secret that he needed remained such, he had a basement, it was more of a dungeon though hidden behind an old bookcase, an idea he had gotten from one of his movies. The basement was used to fulfill his craving, his needs. Troy was special, in that he used his wealth and looks to lure home young women and then he would dominate them. He loved control and this basement would be where he could regain the control his assistant had taken from his at work. It was only temporary though, once he was done with the girl, he would let her go and blackmail her into silence with the pictures or movies he had made of her stay with him.

The Dungeon was dimly lit, with sound proof coverings on all the walls and a fireplace against one wall. Spread out around in the room were various machinery and equipment that looked like it had been taken from some cheap horror movie. Tables with straps, crosses and chairs with holes in the seat. It was every dominant's dream in one place. Troy's place.

The basement was empty, Troy had taken his latest victim and taken her out during the night. He didn't want Sophie to find out, he would not risk loosing her over it. However he had not expected her to ever find, let alone search the basement. And if she did, she would find pictures hanging to dry. Pictures of him having his way with a young woman in a more dominant way than what most men had with their girlfriends. Whips, gags, wax and what looked to be on the rougher side of sex. Everything the mind could conjure up, he had pictures of. Countless of girls, in all ages though they all appeared to be at least adult. He wasn't that depraved.

All along one wall was a series of small shrines. Pictures of every single girl he had ever taken home proudly displayed on the wall, like one would display their football trophy or their vacation pictures. Great care had been taken to take a picture before her stay begun and after.

 

[Ms Catailia]

Wandering his house was in no way a fun experience. It was like walking a museum dedicated to him. Everything was extravagant and overdone, even the pictures he had of himself were tacky. The more she explored while searching for him, the more it confirmed her dislike of him. So this was how the rich and spoiled lived? It felt like he wasn't even human in a way, his ego far preceding her original assumptions. All she wanted was to get out of here and get back to work. She was already technical late so neither of them were there to be in charge, what did that mean for the employees?

Sophie was more than annoyed when she opened the door to the room with the bookshelf. She would have passed it up like the rest but this room actually looked like it was in use. All the other rooms looked pristine and untouched, as though once the furniture had been set no one stepped foot in it again. Deciding to take a closer look, she wondered if she could find a phone to try calling him. Of course there was nothing of use in the room. Sighing, she leaned back against the desk in there and crossed her arms under her chest. She was fed up at that point, having not even found the front door yet. Pretty soon her only option would be to escape through a window.

Resolving to keep searching the house, she pushed herself up from the desk. That was when her green eyes spotted it. It was subtle but on of the bookshelves seemed to be sticking out at on edge. Well that is weird. Curiosity getting the best of her, she walked over to get a closer look and noticed it was pulled away from the wall with what looked to be an opening behind it. Placing her fingers on the edge she pulled and felt the shelf give way as though it were on a hinge. The opening behind it was dark and there were stairs that made there way down. Really weird. What could he possibly be hiding?

After finding a switch there was no absence of bravery as she made her way down the stairs, carefully since he was barefoot except for her stocking and the floor was solid and cold, no longer carpet. When she entered the room, her green eyes widened in awe. This was a full blown torture dungeon. But in some ways, she wasn't surprised in the least. Sophie wandered the room in wonder, not once feeling afraid by what she saw. Everyone had their own fetishes, she couldn't really blame him for that. She herself had enjoyed the occasional darker intimacies but this was definitely not close to something she had ever experienced. She assumed as well that all the women were consenting.

Finding his wall of trophies, her eyes scanned each and every one of them. It was interesting to say the least. The women captured in the photos exemplified a mixture of pleasure and pain. She was even left curious about how some things might feel. She wasn't a masochistic in any sense of the word, but she did have a high pain threshold and some of the things pictured didn't seem so bad. There were people that liked these things, sought them out, it had to be pleasurable in some way, didn't it? It was strange to think of her boss as doing these things but she really wasn't all that surprised. He never treated women very well and he certainly was used to getting what he wanted. But considering his lust for control that was now so obvious, why didn't he just take over his own company? Why leave it to her and put up with the backhand comments she so often said? It was certainly an interesting question.

 

[Niksis]

"Beautiful, isn't it?" a voice came from the other end of the dungeon. "The look on their face." the voice explained as it slowly began to cover the distance between the door leading into the room and the wall Sophie had found. Troy had returned and had hoped he could cover up everything before Sophie would awaken. It wasn't that he was embarrassed about his cravings, not one bit. However he could see others might be and risking his assistant for something like that, would be unacceptable. Stepping into the light, Troy offered a smile to Sophie. Like always, Troy was wearing his suit perfectly. His hair trimmed and set to be just the way it should be and his bear had been trimmed to perfection. That would be the word Troy would use to describe himself with, perfection personified.

Stepping past Sophie, Troy moved to adjust one of the pictures. It had to be perfect, like him. This was where he excelled, this was where he belonged; in control. "Tried it before? The pain and pleasure, that is?" he asked glancing over his shoulder. There was no need trying to hide this anymore, she had found it and had not run off, something inside of him told him that she was either too shocked to act or was perhaps interested, maybe curious about it all. He wanted to find out, try and learn just how much interest, or shock, this discovery had put in her. Part of him was equally scared. Scared that she might run off, that he might loose his assistant, his Sophie. Though confident that he was, that thought was quickly dismissed to just childish fears. Of course she wouldn't run off, judging from the amount of time she had spent studying the pictures, at least from what he had seen from the doorway, she seemed more interested than shocked.

He knew he had just asked a very personal question, but he found that the time was right. Sophie had found his secret. She had found him naked and exposed. In this room, he was no longer Troy Halberd, CEO of Halberd Industries. In this room, he was Sir and Master. This was where he liked to be, it was where he could take back the control Sophie had taken from him. And despite him slowly trying to regain control at work, it would take time. And he hated it.

 

[Ms Catailia]

His voice startled her, causing her to visibly jump before bringing a hand to her chest to calm her rapidly beating heart. Sophie had been too focused, staring intently at those photos, that when he spoke it shattered some sort of reality she was lost in. And now she was caught. She doubted he was very pleased to catch her in a room that was clearly hidden for a reason. She would have expected him to be angry, maybe even fire her for snooping, but instead he was engaging her in conversation over the trophies she had just been examining so closely. Quickly fixing her composure, straightening her back and holding her arms under her bosom, she listened to his shoes as he drew near. Once beside her it was clear how much shorter she was without her heels. She felt embarrassed in a way, as he seemed much more intimidating now.

Sophie hadn't known what to say to his first comment. She wasn't sure beauty was what she would call the expression on the women's face. But she supposed if one were looking at it through an art appreciation aspect, then maybe he could be right. Instinctively her body leaned away from him as he reached past her to adjust a picture. She didn't like how comfortable he was being so close to her but that had been her fault for acting the way she had last night. She had given him mixed messages, in a way she could even admit she probably led him on, but she wanted to make it clear right now where the line was. She was about to speak up when he asked such a bold question, looking back at her with those dark eyes. Her eyes had widened in response, unconsciously her arms tightened against her as she tensed. Why would he ask her such a thing?

Sophie took a step to the side, away from him, turning her body so he couldn't look into her eyes anymore. She had felt in that moment he had stripped away her protective walls and hit right at home. It was as though he had seen into her mind as she envisioned herself in the situations on the pictures that had seemed most pleasing. She had never done anything like that before though and she could never see herself being so vulnerable and under a man's whim in that way. Clearly she was already dealing with demanding men as it was in her life, she didn't need her clothes stripped off and be put into desperate situations where she pleaded to someone higher than her. Even when Christopher abused her, she never once pleaded with him or begged him for anything. She merely tried to protect herself and take what he gave until he was done. She was too proud to be reduced to worshipping anyone other than herself.

"That is clearly not anywhere near professional conversation," she chastised, but it lost its effect with her turned away. Dropping her arms to her sides now she moved toward the door. She needed to leave this room, this situation, before lines were crossed and she lost control of what was happening. It was one thing for him to have his dark fetishes, it was another for him to try to involve her. Besides, they didn't have time for small talk. There were employees at the office without anyone to dictate what they should be doing and she still needed a shower and change of clothes. She felt like a mess around him. How was she supposed to feel professional and superior in day old clothes? It was like she was doing the walk of shame right in front of him.