Chapter 2

*MIA'S APARTMENT*

Alina stirred from sleep, sunlight streamed into the room from the curtains, Ever slowly, she opened her eyes, sitting up on the bed enjoying the morning view from the glass window in the room.

She got up reluctantly, scanning the room for any sign of Mia. But she found none, meaning Mia had slept outside her apartment for the first time since they became friends.

Alina ignored the fact that her friend could be in danger or something more. She forced her lazy self into the bathroom and had a two minute bath.

"Where did she run off to?" She muttered, already getting worried for her friend.

She sighed while throwing the wardrobe open. She didn't have so much clothing of her own and always had to borrow from Mia.

Mia was a fashionista... She had so many trending attires, every type of footwear you could think off, jewelries... Name it. So this morning, Alina had an advantage of making use of her stuff with Mia not being around.

Alina was dressed casually, in a black body hug dress, that made her curves stand out invitingly. She made use of Mia's black jewelry, and also her make up set. Taking a look at her reflection, she smiled to herself. She would surely get this job, whether anyone liked it or not. She had suffered enough and this was a golden opportunity for her.

~ ~

*SUNNY AFTERNOON, BLACKWOOD ESTATE*

Alina stood before the imposing Blackwood Estate, her heart racing with a mix of excitement and nerves. She had spent hours preparing for this moment, rehearsing answers to potential questions and ironing out her dress until it was crisp and smooth.

As she entered the grand study, the maids had given her the directions to, a figure rose from behind the desk, his piercing gaze meeting hers. She stopped breathing for a while, as she took in the chiseled features and chiseled physique of Lucas, Alexander's right-hand man and closest friend. She had heard rumors about his stunning good looks, but nothing had prepared her for the reality.

"Hey, Alina, If you're done checking me out," Lucas said, his deep voice sending a shiver down her spine. "Alexander's not in town, but he trusts me to handle the interview. So, let's get started."

"Alexander?" Alina asked already feeling so stupid for being caught checking Lucas out. Embarrassment flooded in as she took her seat trying to regain her composure.

Even after getting seated, she couldn't take her eyes off his face. He was just too...

"Alina? Are you listening to me?"

"Oh, of course, I am. You were saying?" Alina asked.

Lucas fired questions at her, about her experience, her qualifications, and her approach to childcare, and she answered each question with ease. As the interview progressed, Alina found herself relaxing in Lucas's presence, drawn to his warm smile and easy charm. She couldn't believe she was having this much fun in a job interview!

And then, just when she thought the interview was ending, Lucas asked a simple but very tactical question that got her thinking.

"How would you handle a child who's been through so much in her little life? A child who's adopted."

Alina's heart skipped a beat. She sensed that he was referring to the child she would be taking care of. She took a deep breath and answered, "I would provide a loving and supportive environment, encouraging her to express her feelings and helping her build a strong sense of self-worth."

Lucas nodded, a hint of a smile playing on his lips. "I think you'd be perfect for the job, Alina. Welcome to the Blackwood family."

Alina's eyes widened in surprise. She had gotten the job? Just like that?

"You are going to discuss why and how you think you can handle a job people have rejected. But you'll be telling that to Xander himself."

Alina smiled and she nodded getting up from her seat and following him out of the study which she was not so happy leaving.

"I'm Lucas, Xander's most trusted friend." Lucas introduced himself to her. She gave him a funny look and then smiled.

"What was that for?" Lucas found himself asking.

"What was what for?" Alina smiled again, not forgetting to show off her cute dimples.

"The look you gave to me?" He asked making her giggle.

"You're really pretty, Alina." Lucas said not able to take his eyes off her.

"I know." She replied before looking forward and then, she suddenly stopped then gasped.

As Alina stepped inside, she was enveloped by the opulence of the Blackwood Estate. The grand foyer boasted a sweeping staircase, its banister polished to a high shine. Crystal chandeliers refracted rainbow hues across the marble floor, leading to a spacious living room with floor-to-ceiling windows. The walls were adorned with priceless artwork, and plush furnishings in neutral tones exuded elegance.

A majestic fireplace stood as a focal point, surrounded by comfortable seating areas. The air was thick with the scent of fresh flowers and the soft hum of a piano melody played by an invisible hand.

Beyond the living room, a formal dining area beckoned, with a long, polished table and chairs that seemed to whisper refinement. A sparkling chandelier above cast a warm glow, while a nearby wine cellar tempted with its extensive collection.

The estate's interior design was a masterful blend of classic sophistication and modern luxury, reflecting Alexander's impeccable taste. Every detail, from the intricate moldings to the lavish fabrics, whispered of wealth and power.

As Alina explored further, she discovered a state-of-the-art kitchen, a private movie theater, and an expansive library with shelves upon shelves of leather-bound tomes. The Blackwood Estate was a true masterpiece, a testament to Alexander's success and status.

"What, why did you stop?" Lucas asked a hint of impatience in his voice at her childish behavior.

"I'm gonna live here? This is heaven... I love it here... It's so beautiful..." She smiled while wiping a tear from the corner of her eyes.

"Are you ready to see Emma?" Lucas asked, his hands on the doorknob. Alina took in a deep breath and she nodded making Lucas smile reassuring at her before turning the door knob and the door opened.