Tempting The Billionaire
age and efficiency for electric vehicles and renewable energy systems. He was so engrossed that he barely noticed his secretary, Ethan, walking in with an iPad. "Sir, it's almost t
ating a charity or foundation that would make a real difference in people's lives. It would be a great PR move and would surely take the spotlight off Julian." "I like it. Let's do it. Find me a piece of land, somewhere remote, and let's establish our own charity. We'll show Julian that we're not to be underestimated."Reginald's eyes gleamed with determination. "Yes, sir. I'll get right on it."Victor nodded, a hint of a smile on his face. "Julian is going down, Victor. And we're going to be the ones to take him down."Reginald's voice dripped with malice. As Victor turned to leave, Reginald's phone rang. "Yes?"He answered it, with a cold voice. "Reginald, it's Harrison Green. I've been a loyal investor in your company for years, but I have to say, I'm impressed. Julian's new launch has really caught my attention." "What are you trying to say, Harrison?" Reginald's eyes narrowed. "I'm saying that I think it's time for me to reevaluate my investment in your company. Julian's innovation and forward-thinking have me questioning whether you're the right horse to back." "You can't just pull out now, Harrison. We have plans in place, plans that will take us to the top."Reginald's grip on the phone tightened. "I understand that, Reginald, but I have to think about my own interests. I'm afraid I've lost confidence in your ability to deliver, Reginald. Julian's new launch has shown me that he's the one who's truly innovative and forward-thinking. I'm done investing in your company." "Fine! Leave then! See if I care!"Reginald's face twisted in anger. He slammed the phone down on the desk, his face red with rage. Reginald began to pace back and forth in his office, his anger and frustration palpable. "Victor, I need you to get me that land. I don't care what it takes, I want it." he growled. Victor watched him calmly, with a neutral expression. "Sir, I understand your desire, but perhaps we should consider the potential consequences of our actions. Acquiring that land could lead to backlash from the community and damage our reputation." he said. Reginald stopped pacing and turned to Victor, his eyes blazing. "I don't pay you to think, Victor. I pay you to follow orders. Now, get me that land!"he thundered. Victor's expression remained calm, but his eyes flickered with a hint of concern. "Yes, sir. Right away, sir." he said in a haste. "What nonsense! All I want is to get back at Julian, not give to the local school or community!" As Victor turned to leave, Reginald muttered under his breath. Victor's eyes narrowed slightly, his jaw clenched in frustration, but he said nothing, simply nodding and exiting the room to carry out Reginald's orders. * _5:30 PM THE COCKTAIL CLUB_ _Emilia's POV_ I pushed open the door to The Cocktail Club, the familiar sounds and smells enveloping me like a warm hug. After a long day at the hospital, I was ready to unwind and forget my troubles. As I made my way to the bar, I noticed a group of men eyeing me from across the room. They looked like regulars, and I wondered what their stories were. "Hey, Emilia! How was your day?"my coworker, Rachel, greeted me with a smile. I took a deep breath, letting the stress of the day melt away. "It was long, but I'm glad to be here now."I replied. Rachel nodded sympathetically. "I know the feeling. Well, let's get started and make some drinks!" As we worked, the men from across the room caught my attention again. They were laughing and joking, but one of them kept staring at me. I felt a shiver run down my spine. As the night wore on, the men's laughter and chatter grew louder. I tried to focus on my work, but the one man's gaze kept making me uncomfortable. He was sitting at the end of the bar, his eyes were fixed on me with an intensity that made my skin crawl. "Rachel, can I ask you something?" I said, trying to distract myself. "Sure, what's up?" Rachel replied, expertly mixing a cocktail. "That guy at the end of the bar,He's been staring at me all night. Do you know him?"I nodded discreetly in his direction. Rachel followed my gaze and frowned. "Oh, that's Ryan. He's a regular here. Thinks he owns the place." "Thinks he owns the place?"I raised an eyebrow. "Yeah, he's got a reputation for being a bit of a sleaze. Always hitting on the female bartenders."Rachel leaned in closer. My discomfort turned to unease. "Great," I muttered under my breath. Just then, Ryan beckoned me over with a crooked finger. "Hey, sweetheart. Come here and pour me a drink." My instincts screamed at me to stay away, but I didn't want to be rude. I reluctantly made my way over to him, my heart was racing with anticipation. As I approached Ryan, he flashed me a charming smile. "Hey, beautiful. What's your name?" "Emilia," I replied, trying to sound friendly but distant. "Emilia, gorgeous name for a gorgeous girl," Ryan said, his eyes roaming over me. "What's your favorite drink to make?" "Uh, I like making margaritas."I forced a smile. "Great choice! Make me one, Emilia. And don't be stingy with the tequila," Ryan said, winking at me. I hesitated for a moment, feeling uneasy, but then started making his drink. As I worked, Ryan kept chatting me up, asking me questions about my interests and hobbies. I tried to stay polite, but my instincts were screaming at me to get away from him. Just as I finished his drink, Ryan's hand brushed against mine. "Thanks, Emilia. You're a real sweetheart." "Excuse me, Ryan. I need to go help other customers." I pulled my hand back, feeling a shiver run down my spine. "Oh, come on, Emilia. Don't be like that. I'm just trying to be friendly." Ryan's smile turned into a smirk. "I appreciate that, but really, I need to go."I forced a laugh. Ryan's grip on my waist tightened, his fingers digging into my skin like vice grips. I tried to push him away, but he held fast. "How much for a night, Emilia?" he whispered. "Let me go, Ryan," I said, my voice was firm but shaky. "You will fit well for the night, Emilia." Ryan's breath was hot on my ear. I tried to push him away again, but he held tight. His hand roamed down to grab my butt. And I slapped him, hard. Ryan flinched, anger flashing in his eyes. "Where is the boss of this place? I'm going to make sure you pay for that, you stupid bitch!"Ryan bellowed. Mr. Daniels appeared, with a stern expression on his face. "What's going on here?" he asked. "This waitress has she's been flirting with me all night, and then she slapped me for no reason. I demand you fire her!" Ryan's eyes narrowed. I shook my head, tears streaming down my face. "That's not true, Mr. Daniels. He's b