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Chapter 4 - Chapter 4: Bound by power

The next morning was different.

Ava woke tangled in white silk sheets that weren't her own, her body aching in the most satisfying ways. The scent of Selene lingered on her skin, in the pillows, in every breath she took. The penthouse was bathed in soft morning light, casting shadows across the high-rise windows that overlooked the city. Everything about the space was cold elegance—chrome, marble, and silence—except the woman sprawled beside her, still half-asleep, an arm lazily draped across Ava's waist.

For a moment, Ava didn't move.

She stared at the ceiling, trying to process what her life had become. Just three weeks ago, she was a fresh assistant. Intimidated. Careful. Diligent. Now, she was the personal obsession of one of the city's most powerful CEOs—willingly kneeling at her feet, begging for control and aching for it every second Selene wasn't touching her.

And the craziest part?

She didn't want it to stop.

"Are you thinking about work?" Selene's voice cut through the silence, groggy but edged with her usual sharpness.

Ava turned, startled.

Selene smirked, eyes still half-closed. "You're too quiet."

"I was thinking about... everything."

"Everything?"

Ava nodded slowly. "Last night. This. Us."

Selene rose onto an elbow and looked down at her. "There's no 'us,' Ava. Not in the traditional sense. There's me. And there's you. There's control. And surrender. And the very clear line between who gives the orders."

Ava felt her heart stumble.

"But…" Selene's fingers traced the line of Ava's collarbone, "...you're mine. Whether we define it or not."

Ava swallowed hard. "And I'm okay with that."

"I know you are." Selene leaned down and kissed her—slow, deliberate, with an intimacy that almost contradicted her words. "But it's going to get harder. The more we blur the lines."

Ava let out a shaky breath. "Then let it blur."

Selene paused, something flickering in her eyes. "Careful, Ava. That sounds dangerously close to devotion."

Ava met her gaze evenly. "Maybe it is."

Selene smiled, but it didn't reach her eyes.

Then, she pulled the covers back and climbed on top of Ava with a slow, confident grace. "Then show me how much."

---

Back at the office, whispers had already started.

Ava could feel the eyes on her. The slight pause in conversation when she passed. The way some of the executive assistants stared at her outfit—a new designer blouse she could never afford, one Selene had picked for her that morning.

Selene hadn't come in through the front.

She used the private elevator.

And she hadn't called Ava once.

It was almost like she didn't exist anymore.

Except, Ava did exist. Her body still throbbed with reminders of the night. Her lips were bruised, her wrists bore faint red lines where silk had held her down, and her heart beat too fast whenever she passed Selene's door.

Then came the email.

> Subject: Conference Prep

Miss Hayes,

Join me at 8 PM tonight. Private jet to Milan.

Wear the black set.

— S.

Ava's pulse roared in her ears.

---

By 8 PM, they were airborne.

The jet was sleek and cold, like Selene herself. Only the hum of the engines filled the silence. Selene sat across from her, legs crossed, a laptop balanced on her thighs. Ava wore a trench coat over the lingerie Selene had specified, her cheeks flushed from the sheer boldness of it.

Selene didn't speak at first.

Then, without looking up, she said, "Take it off."

Ava blinked. "Here?"

"Do I need to repeat myself?"

With shaking fingers, Ava unbuckled her coat and let it fall open. The black lace hugged her curves, seductive and expensive.

Selene looked up slowly, her eyes darkening. "Come here."

Ava crossed the space between them, straddled Selene's lap.

Selene cupped her face. "You still blush like a virgin. But your body knows better."

And then she kissed her—deep, hungry, claiming. Her hands roamed everywhere, beneath the lace, over Ava's thighs, gripping her ass. The jet hit turbulence, but neither of them noticed.

Selene's mouth traveled down Ava's neck, biting and sucking with cruel intention. Ava moaned, grinding into her, desperate for friction.

Selene tugged the lingerie aside, slid two fingers between her folds.

"Already wet?" she whispered. "You really do belong to me."

Ava gasped. "Yes. Please…"

"Beg louder."

"Please, Selene—don't stop. I need it."

Selene pushed inside her, slow and deep. Her thumb teased Ava's clit while her free hand held her steady. Ava rode her fingers with reckless need, head thrown back, nails digging into Selene's shoulders.

"Say it," Selene growled.

"I'm yours. Yours!"

"Again."

"I'm yours, Selene!"

Ava cum hard, shuddering against her, burying her face in Selene's neck. The CEO held her through it, stroking her hair, whispering wicked things she'd never forget.

"You'll come again in Milan. In my hotel bed. On your knees. Under my desk. Wherever I want. Understand?"

Ava nodded weakly.

Selene smiled.

"Good girl."

The office buzzed with a quiet tension that morning, but none of it reached the private executive floor where Ava sat, her legs crossed tightly, her mind still reeling from the night before. The scent of Selene's perfume still clung faintly to her skin. Her lips were still swollen from rough kisses, her thighs sore from Selene's possessive grip. Every second of sleep-deprived silence was filled with the phantom feel of the CEO's hands on her body.

Ava checked the time. It was almost nine. Selene hadn't arrived yet. Or if she had, she was hidden behind the frosted glass doors of her office, unreachable. The air felt heavier than usual, as if the walls themselves knew what had happened between them.

Ava tried to focus on her screen, but her fingers hovered uselessly over the keyboard. She remembered how Selene had pulled her hair, whispered her name like a secret she owned. She remembered the taste of wine on Selene's tongue, the commanding way she had stripped Ava of control.

And yet, Ava had never felt more alive.

The intercom buzzed. Selene's voice, cool and clipped, came through. "My office. Now."

Ava stood immediately, smoothed her skirt, and walked in. Her knees were already weak before she opened the door.

Selene was at her desk, pen poised over a document, head bent. She didn't look up as Ava entered.

"Close the door."

Click.

"Lock it."

Click.

Selene looked up, her dark eyes unreadable. "Did you sleep well?"

Ava didn't know how to answer. She hadn't. She'd spent hours staring at the ceiling, reliving everything, craving more.

"I slept," she murmured.

Selene stood and walked around the desk, towering over her in sharp heels and an immaculate black suit. She reached out and tugged Ava closer by the waist.

"You're distracted."

"I'm trying to focus."

"I don't pay you to try."

Ava's breath caught.

Selene's hand slid under the hem of her skirt. "I pay you to obey."

Ava's head fell back as Selene's fingers found her. She was already wet. Already aching.

"You didn't even wear panties today."

"I couldn't."

Selene smirked. "Because you knew I'd want you again?"

Ava nodded.

Selene pulled her toward the desk and bent her over it. Her breath was hot against Ava's ear. "Stay quiet. You don't want the board members to hear, do you?"

Ava's only answer was a gasp as Selene's hand slid between her legs again, firmer this time, teasing but never giving her enough.

"Tell me who you belong to."

"You."

"I didn't hear you."

"You, Selene."

"Good girl."

Selene pushed deeper, her movements methodical, ruthless. Ava gripped the edge of the desk, biting her lip to keep from crying out.

"I'm not just your boss," Selene growled. "I'm your owner."

Ava came undone.

---

The meeting was about to start, and Ava still hadn't recovered. Her legs felt like jelly. Her cheeks burned every time someone looked at her.

Selene sat at the head of the boardroom table, the picture of composure. She discussed figures and strategy like she hadn't just brought her assistant to orgasm ten minutes earlier. No one could ever guess what had happened. No one except Ava, who sat at the far end, barely holding it together.

Selene's foot brushed hers under the table. Once. Twice.

Ava nearly dropped her pen.

"Miss Hayes," one of the senior partners asked, "what are your thoughts on the marketing angle for the new launch?"

Ava opened her mouth, but her throat was dry.

Selene raised an eyebrow, daring her to stumble.

Ava cleared her throat. "We need to position the brand as both exclusive and attainable. The balance between desire and reality. Seduction in luxury."

Selene's smile was almost imperceptible.

"Noted," the partner said.

The meeting continued. Ava's pulse never slowed.

---

That night, Selene summoned her again. This time to her home.

Ava arrived in a silk slip and nothing else. She knew better now. She didn't need direction.

Selene opened the door and said nothing. She just stepped aside and watched Ava enter.

Candles flickered in the massive penthouse. Music played softly in the background. But the tension in the room was sharp.

Selene took her time. She poured wine. She ran a hot bath. She undressed Ava slowly, deliberately. Each movement said: you are mine.

Ava didn't resist. She climbed into the tub, let Selene wash her, touch her, own her.

Later, Selene tied her hands with a silk scarf and laid her on the bed.

"I want you to remember something," she whispered.

"What?"

"This isn't just lust. It's control. And you love it."

Ava couldn't deny it.

Selene moved over her like a storm, kissing, biting, commanding. Her mouth claimed every inch of skin. Her hands didn't ask permission.

Ava moaned beneath her, eyes rolling back. Every thrust, every grind, every stroke sent her spiraling further.

"I can't—"

"Yes, you can."

"Selene—"

"Say my name when you come."

"Selene!"

The night didn't end with one climax. It ended with surrender.

Ava lay tangled in the sheets, bruised with passion, breathless.

Selene pulled her close.

"You're learning," she whispered.

Ava smiled.

"I'm yours."

Selene kissed her forehead.

"And don't forget it."

The office buzzed faintly beyond the executive floor, but up here, it was a different world—one of silence, tension, and memory.

Ava sat at her desk, legs tightly crossed beneath the desk, heart beating like a war drum in her chest. The phantom touch of Selene's fingers was still between her thighs. Her skin carried the faintest trace of Selene's perfume—dark jasmine and pure sin. Her lips were still swollen from kisses that had bruised more than just her mouth.

She tried to type, but her fingers trembled. Her whole body still belonged to last night. To Selene.

The intercom buzzed.

That voice—low, firm, commanding.

> "My office. Now."

No room for hesitation.

Ava stood so quickly her chair scraped against the marble floor. Her heels clicked as she walked across the private hallway. She hesitated at the frosted door.

> Click.

Click.

Locked.

Selene didn't look up as she entered. She sat poised, pen in hand, writing as if Ava weren't already unraveling at the sight of her. That black suit hugged her form like a weapon, tailored to perfection, the neckline just low enough to be a threat.

"Did you sleep well?" Selene asked without looking up.

Ava's voice was barely audible. "I didn't sleep."

Selene's lips curved slightly, pleased. "Good. That means I left a mark."

She stood and circled Ava slowly, each step measured, eyes raking over her.

"Did you follow instructions?"

Ava nodded, breath catching as Selene's fingers found the hem of her skirt.

"No panties," Selene murmured. "Such a filthy little thing."

"I couldn't," Ava whispered. "I kept thinking about you."

Selene gripped her chin, tilting her head up. "You think I'm going to go easy on you because you're needy?"

"No, ma'am."

A flicker of heat passed through Selene's eyes. "That's right."

Selene spun her around, bent her over the glass desk. The cool surface kissed her cheek as her hands scrambled for purchase. Papers slid, scattering across the floor.

Selene's hand stroked down Ava's back, then yanked her skirt up.

"So eager," Selene growled. "Already soaked for me."

Her fingers found Ava's slick heat and teased her mercilessly. "Look at you… dripping down your thighs. I should punish you for being this desperate."

"Please do," Ava gasped.

That earned her a harsh smack that echoed off the glass walls.

"You don't beg unless I allow it."

Ava whimpered. "Yes, Selene…"

Selene pushed two fingers inside her without warning. Ava arched, mouth open in a silent scream. Selene's other hand wrapped around her throat, holding her steady, dominant but never cutting off breath.

"I want to hear you struggle not to scream," she whispered in Ava's ear. "I want to see how far you'll go to obey me."

Ava bit her lip so hard it bled, but she didn't make a sound—just muffled sobs of pleasure as Selene fucked her with fingers that knew every sensitive spot.

"Tell me who owns you."

"You, Selene."

"Say it louder."

"You, Selene! I belong to you!"

Selene curled her fingers and sent Ava over the edge. She shook against the desk, legs trembling, trying not to collapse completely.

But Selene wasn't finished.

Not even close.

She grabbed Ava's hair, turned her around, and dropped to her knees.

Ava's breath caught as Selene spread her thighs and licked her clean, tongue slow, sensual, punishing.

"Every inch of you tastes like mine," she said, voice thick with dominance. "You exist to serve me. Your body is mine to ruin, over and over."

Ava came again, her hands gripping Selene's shoulders as her body spasmed, this time with a loud, ragged moan that echoed through the locked office.

Selene stood and leaned down, her lips brushing Ava's ear.

> "Now go clean yourself up. You have a board meeting in fifteen minutes."

Ava's eyes were glazed, her legs jelly.

Selene smirked and tapped her cheek gently. "And if you drop your pen during the meeting again... I'll take you on the conference table next time."

---

Boardroom: 10 minutes later

Ava sat with her knees pressed tightly together, her entire body vibrating. Her panties were still missing. Her slick thighs stuck to the chair. Her eyes were glassy, fingers trembling as she clutched her pen.

Selene, across the room, was the epitome of grace and power. Her blazer unbuttoned just enough to tease. She spoke in that cool, composed tone about projections, deliverables, and deadlines, while Ava tried not to lose her mind remembering the feel of that tongue between her legs.

Their eyes met across the table.

Selene's foot slid along Ava's calf.

She gasped.

"Miss Hayes?" one of the board members asked, raising a brow. "Care to elaborate on your marketing strategy?"

Ava tried to steady her voice. "It's about anticipation. We need to create hunger. Not just want… obsession."

Selene's lips twitched.

Obsession indeed.

---

That Night – Selene's Penthouse

The air smelled of candles and danger. The lights were low, shadows soft. Ava arrived in only a silk robe, heels, and trembling desire.

Selene opened the door with a wicked smile. No words. Just a sharp nod.

Inside, the room was prepped like a scene from Ava's dirtiest dreams.

Silk cuffs. A bed draped in black sheets. A mirror across the room.

"You've earned more than punishment tonight," Selene whispered, pulling Ava in for a kiss that bruised.

She stripped her slowly—each article tossed aside like it offended her. Her eyes devoured every inch of exposed skin.

Selene ran a finger down Ava's spine.

"On the bed. Hands above your head."

Ava obeyed instantly.

Silk wrapped around her wrists, binding her to the headboard.

Selene climbed on top of her, trailing kisses over her stomach, her thighs, her breasts, biting just enough to mark.

Then, the toy came out.

A sleek, vibrating wand.

Selene didn't go easy.

Ava cried out, back arching, breath coming in ragged gasps.

"No coming until I say."

Selene teased her ruthlessly—pulling back every time Ava got close.

"Please, Selene—"

"No."

Again.

Again.

Until Ava was shaking, her body begging for release.

Then Selene leaned down and whispered, "Now."

Ava shattered.

And again.

And again.

Selene kissed her neck, each stroke of her fingers possessive. "You're mine. Don't you ever forget it."

Ava could only nod, breathless, limp, wholly owned.

The day had barely started when Selene summoned Ava once again. The intercom buzzed, her voice cool and commanding as always: "Meet me in my office, now."

Ava couldn't help but feel the familiar flutter in her stomach as she stood, smoothing her skirt before making her way down the hall. The quiet tension hung heavy in the air—Ava had learned not to question it. When Selene summoned, she obeyed.

She knocked softly on the door before entering, finding Selene leaning against her desk, her sharp eyes flicking over Ava in a way that made her knees weak.

"You're coming with me today," Selene said, her tone leaving no room for argument.

Ava didn't ask where or why. The instructions were always simple: Follow. Obey.

Selene turned, already heading toward the elevator. Ava hurried after her, trying to maintain her composure. The building's sleek, modern elevator doors opened with a soft swish, and Ava stepped inside, immediately aware of the overwhelming presence Selene commanded. There was no need for words between them—the silence said everything.

The elevator descended to the ground floor, where Selene led them out onto the bustling city streets. Ava followed closely, almost at a jog to keep up with Selene's determined stride. They reached a high-end boutique just a few blocks away. The doors swung open as soon as Selene approached, the air inside cool and filled with the scent of luxury.

Ava hesitated for a moment, glancing at the pristine racks of expensive clothing. "I don't need anything," she said softly, her hands instinctively folding in front of her. "I'm fine."

Selene's eyes darkened with amusement. "You don't get to decide today, Ava. This is my choice."

Ava opened her mouth to protest, but Selene's sharp gaze silenced her.

The store manager, a well-dressed woman with sharp features, stepped forward, bowing her head in greeting to Selene. "Miss Devereux, everything is ready for you."

Ava watched as Selene made her way through the store, her footsteps confident and deliberate. She ran her fingers along the fabric of several garments, selecting a few items that seemed to be chosen with her precise taste in mind.

The moment Selene turned to Ava, her eyes dark and commanding, Ava's heart skipped a beat. "Try them on."

"I— I really don't—" Ava stammered, but the words fell flat as Selene moved closer, her presence overwhelming.

"Don't argue," Selene snapped, her tone ice-cold. "You will wear what I tell you. Now go. Try them on."

Ava's pulse raced as she looked at the pile of clothes in Selene's hand. She glanced at the dressing room, considering running—though she knew it would be futile. She wasn't escaping Selene's command. Not anymore.

Reluctantly, Ava made her way to the dressing room, locking herself in. The clothes Selene had chosen were not just expensive, they were designed to make a statement. A black leather dress with a plunging neckline. A red silk blouse, paired with black pencil pants. And the last one—a strapless, form-fitting gown that hugged every curve.

She slipped into the black leather dress first, the cool fabric clinging to her skin, the tightness of it accentuating every inch of her body. When she looked in the mirror, she felt… exposed. But also empowered in a way she couldn't quite explain.

A knock at the door interrupted her thoughts. "You're taking too long. I'll be in here, waiting."

Selene's voice was steady, full of expectation. Ava's stomach twisted. She knew what was coming. She knew that this wasn't about the clothes. It was about submission. About learning to give up control.

She opened the door reluctantly, stepping out to face Selene. The CEO's gaze roamed over her, taking in every detail. There was no need to ask if Ava looked good—Selene's expression said it all.

Ava stood there, not daring to speak.

Selene's lips curled into a satisfied smile. "You're perfect."

The words sent a thrill through Ava's body. She wanted to argue, to pull away, but her body betrayed her. The desire, the pull to give in, was too strong. It was always too strong when Selene was involved.

"Now," Selene said, "get dressed. And remember who made you look this good."

Ava bit her lip, fighting the urge to resist. She didn't want to take the clothes. She didn't want to be another pawn in Selene's world, a world built on control. But Selene's dominance loomed over her, undeniable.

With a heavy sigh, Ava took the dress and changed back into it, submitting completely to the force of Selene's will.

Selene paid for the clothes without a second glance at the price tags. The boutique staff moved quickly, wrapping each item with meticulous care, whispering to each other as if aware that a storm had just passed through their store. Ava stood quietly to the side, clutching the elegant bags, her heart pounding with mixed emotions—shame, desire, submission… and something dangerously close to admiration.

Once back inside the sleek, black car that whisked them away from the boutique, Ava finally dared to speak.

"I didn't want you to buy me things."

Selene turned to her with a slow smirk. "I don't recall asking what you wanted."

Ava's lips parted in protest, but Selene leaned in, brushing a thumb over her bottom lip.

"You're mine, Ava. If I want you wrapped in leather, silk, or chained to my desk—" her voice dropped, smoky and low "—then that's exactly what's going to happen."

Ava swallowed hard, thighs unconsciously squeezing together.

When they returned to the office, it was after noon. The elevator ride to the top floor was silent, except for the thick tension pulsing between them. Ava felt like prey trapped in a velvet-lined cage—and she wasn't sure if she wanted to escape or be devoured whole.

Back in her office, she tried to focus on the documents on her desk, but her mind was still swirling. Selene hadn't touched her since the boutique. And somehow, that restraint made Ava burn even hotter.

An hour passed.

Then the intercom buzzed.

"Come to my office."

No title. No formality.

Just that one firm command.

Ava stood, her heartbeat in her throat as she approached the frosted glass door. When she entered, Selene was seated behind her desk, jacket removed, silk blouse slightly unbuttoned. Her eyes were unreadable as she studied Ava.

"Close the door."

Ava obeyed.

Selene rose slowly, walking toward her. "Put the dress on."

Ava blinked. "Now?"

"Yes. Here."

Ava hesitated. "There's no—"

"No one will interrupt. And if they do, they'll learn who owns you too."

There was a moment of silence, charged and breathless.

Ava unzipped her skirt and slid it down, followed by her blouse, then bra. Selene watched her like a lioness surveying her territory—hungry, poised, and possessive.

With trembling hands, Ava pulled the leather dress from the shopping bag and stepped into it. She zipped it slowly up her back, the snug fit instantly hugging her body.

Selene reached out, tucking a strand of hair behind Ava's ear. "Now come here."

Ava stepped forward. Selene cupped her chin.

"You were made for this," she whispered. "To obey. To be claimed."

Selene kissed her—hard, unapologetic. Then spun her around and bent her over the desk.

"You don't get rewards for resisting. You get reminders."

Selene's hand slid under the dress. Ava gasped as warm fingers traced the sensitive skin between her thighs, only to retreat again. A tease. A warning.

Selene's lips brushed her ear. "Keep your hands flat on the desk. Don't move unless I tell you to."

Ava obeyed instantly, every nerve in her body begging for more.

Selene's palm came down in a soft slap on her backside, followed by a low chuckle.

"You need to remember your place."

Another spank.

Ava bit her lip, already soaking through the lace.

Selene knelt behind her, dragging her tongue along the inside of Ava's thigh. Slow. Sensual. Dominant.

"You're dripping for me," she whispered. "Such a good little pet."

Ava whimpered.

Selene's tongue flicked over her clit, sending a jolt through her core. Ava arched, but Selene's strong hand pushed her back down. "I said don't move."

Then came the torture—Selene's expert tongue alternating between delicate flicks and deep, devastating strokes. Ava couldn't think. Couldn't breathe. The desk beneath her became her only anchor in a tidal wave of heat and dominance.

"Please," Ava gasped. "Selene—"

"Do you deserve to come?"

Ava cried out, toes curling.

"Beg."

"I—I need it. I need you."

Selene stood, biting Ava's shoulder lightly before whispering, "Then take it."

One final touch, and Ava shattered.

The orgasm ripped through her like fire—deep, full-bodied, and soul-snatching.

Selene pulled her up after, straightened her dress, then leaned in to kiss her neck.

"Next time, don't question me," she said softly.

Ava nodded, barely able to stand.

"You look perfect in that dress," Selene added, eyes gleaming. "I'll be keeping it in my closet from now on. You'll wear it only when I tell you to."

"Yes, Selene."

Selene smiled darkly. "Good girl."

Later that evening, Ava found herself standing in the doorway of Selene's penthouse apartment, the soft hum of city life floating in from the streets below. The sky had darkened, and the air held a cool crispness, promising the arrival of winter. Ava shifted her weight from one foot to the other, feeling a strange mixture of anticipation and hesitation.

Selene had insisted she come over after work—no questions asked. No business talk. Just the two of them. It was a side of Selene Ava had never seen before: softer, more personal. Almost… normal.

She hesitated for only a moment before stepping inside. The door closed softly behind her, and the click of the lock made her stomach tighten with nerves. There was a certain tension in the air—a strange, magnetic pull that always seemed to surround Selene.

"Come in, Ava. Make yourself comfortable."

Ava's eyes scanned the luxurious living room—a space that was every bit as polished and controlled as Selene herself. The walls were painted in deep, dark tones with splashes of gold. The furniture was modern and sleek, and the view of the city skyline through the floor-to-ceiling windows was breathtaking.

Ava walked further inside, her heels clicking softly against the marble floors. She noticed Selene moving around the kitchen, her back turned as she busied herself with something on the stovetop.

"You didn't have to cook for me," Ava said, her voice soft but full of curiosity.

Selene didn't turn around. Instead, she stirred something in a pot, a faint smile playing at the corner of her lips. "I wanted to," she replied. "After all, it's not often I get to do something for you, Ava. I thought it might be nice."

Ava raised an eyebrow. "You've never cooked for anyone before, have you?"

Selene paused for a moment, her gaze flickering over her shoulder as she shot Ava a wry smile. "No," she admitted, "but you're not just anyone."

Ava couldn't help the warmth that spread through her chest at the comment. It was rare for Selene to show this side of herself—vulnerable, thoughtful. The CEO, the ice queen, the woman who commanded attention with a mere glance, was suddenly showing a different side, and Ava was utterly captivated.

Selene gestured toward the dining table with one elegant hand. "Take a seat. I'll be done in just a few minutes."

Ava did as she was told, sitting at the table and watching Selene with a mixture of awe and curiosity. She hadn't expected this. Sure, Selene was always in control, always the one who led their encounters, but seeing her like this, cooking in her immaculate kitchen, was both surprising and… intriguing.

The scent of garlic and rosemary filled the air, followed by the rich aroma of simmering sauce. Ava's stomach growled, a reminder that she hadn't eaten much today, too caught up in the whirlwind of emotions Selene had brought into her life.

Selene turned from the stove and walked toward the table, her movements fluid and graceful. She placed a glass of wine in front of Ava, the dark red liquid catching the light. "You look stunning tonight," Selene said as she took a seat across from her, her eyes lingering on Ava's face with a depth that made her pulse race.

"Thank you," Ava replied, slightly flustered. "I wasn't expecting this."

Selene smiled, her eyes narrowing slightly as she leaned forward, her gaze never leaving Ava's. "I know. You're always so used to me being in charge, but tonight… tonight, I wanted to take care of you."

Ava felt a flutter in her chest, her breath catching. There was something in Selene's tone that sent shivers down her spine. The power dynamic had shifted, just for this evening. For once, Selene wasn't commanding Ava in the boardroom or in the bedroom. Tonight, she was showing her a different kind of dominance—a softer, gentler kind. But Ava knew that the underlying strength and control would never truly disappear.

The food was set before them—grilled salmon with a delicate sauce, roasted vegetables, and a side of buttery mashed potatoes. Ava couldn't help but smile at the sight. It was simple yet elegant, just like everything Selene did.

"Thank you," Ava said, meeting Selene's eyes. "It looks amazing."

Selene nodded, her lips curving into a slight smile. "Eat. Enjoy it. It's the least I can do."

Ava took her first bite, the flavors rich and comforting. She was surprised by how good it tasted, the combination of fresh ingredients and expertly balanced seasonings making each bite a small indulgence.

They ate in silence for a while, the only sounds being the clink of silverware against plates and the occasional sip of wine. The atmosphere between them was different tonight. Less intense, yet more intimate in its own way. Ava found herself allowing her guard to slip, just a little.

"So, what made you want to cook tonight?" Ava asked after a few minutes, her curiosity getting the better of her.

Selene set her glass down, her fingers brushing against the rim as she looked thoughtfully at Ava. "I guess… I wanted to do something for you that felt real. Not just business. Not just sex. Something that was... ours."

Ava's heart skipped a beat at the softness in Selene's voice. It was a side of her the world didn't get to see. The side that didn't hide behind power, authority, and control.

"I don't know what to say," Ava replied quietly. "This is unexpected. But… I appreciate it. More than you know."

Selene's gaze softened, and for a moment, Ava saw a flicker of vulnerability in her eyes—the ice queen, the CEO, allowing herself to be a little bit more human.

"You don't have to say anything," Selene said, her voice low and steady. "Just enjoy the night."

Ava nodded, taking another bite of the delicious food, but her mind was racing. This woman, the one who ruled empires with a single word, was showing her a side of herself that no one else ever got to see. And Ava couldn't help but feel drawn in further, unable to resist the magnetic pull of Selene's power, her dominance, and her undeniable allure.

As the evening wore on, the two women shared stories and laughter, the world outside forgotten as they basked in the rare moment of calm. There was no rush, no deadlines to meet, just the two of them in the quiet of Selene's apartment, connecting in a way that neither had expected.

When the meal was finished and the last sip of wine was taken, Selene leaned back in her chair, studying Ava with an unreadable expression.

"I want you to stay tonight," Selene said, her voice low but firm.

Ava's heart raced. The weight of Selene's words lingered in the air, heavy with unspoken intent. She knew what Selene wanted, what was being offered, and despite the tension in her chest, she couldn't bring herself to say no.

"I'll stay," Ava said softly.

Selene's lips curved into a smile, and for the first time in a long while, Ava felt like she was truly being seen—not just as the assistant, not just as a conquest, but as someone worth taking care of.

And in that moment, Ava realized that this—whatever it was—was something that would change her life forever.

Ava leaned back in her chair, finishing the last sip of orange juice. She expected Selene to beckon her immediately, to pull her into another storm of dominance. But instead, the CEO remained still, seated on the velvet couch, legs crossed, her gaze unreadable.

"You're tired," Selene said finally, voice smooth like silk over steel. "I won't touch you… not yet."

Ava blinked. Surprise flickered across her features. "You won't?"

Selene tilted her head. "You think I only crave your body? That I can't control myself when it comes to you?" Her lips curled into a knowing smile. "Obedience is beautiful… but trust, Ava, is everything."

Ava sat quietly, her heart pounding louder than before. In a twisted way, Selene's restraint was more intense than any touch. It made her feel seen. Important. Desired not just as an object of pleasure—but something more.

Selene rose and walked over, crouching beside her. Her fingers brushed Ava's hair gently behind her ear. "You're sore," she murmured. "And I want you to remember that I choose when you break—not your body."

Ava's breath caught in her throat. The tenderness was unexpected, almost too intimate. "Then… what do we do now?"

"You rest. You heal. Tonight, I'll show you another side of being mine." She stood and extended a hand. "Come. We're leaving."

"Where?"

"A place I go when I need silence… and control."

---

The car ride was quiet, but not uncomfortable. Ava sat beside Selene in the sleek black town car, her fingers grazing the hem of the soft dress the CEO had chosen for her. It was elegant, silk again, cut just low enough to tease. No underwear. Just as instructed.

They pulled up to a towering glass building downtown. A luxury high-rise that shimmered in the late morning sun.

"Is this another penthouse?" Ava asked, her voice light.

Selene smirked. "Something better."

Inside, the elevator shot to the top floor, where the doors opened to reveal a rooftop sanctuary—private, enclosed, and breathtaking. A sunlit spa stretched across the rooftop, steam rising from a central pool lined with marble. Cushioned lounges, soft music, fresh orchids—everything screamed luxury.

"You own this?" Ava asked, awe dripping from her voice.

Selene didn't answer. Instead, she took Ava's hand and led her to a shaded cabana. She motioned for her to sit.

"Today, you learn a different lesson," she said softly. "Submission doesn't always mean pain. It means trust. Let me take care of you."

Ava's chest swelled with something she couldn't name—relief, maybe. Or something far more dangerous. Devotion.

For the next few hours, Selene didn't demand. She served. She guided Ava into the warm pool, massaged her shoulders with fragrant oils, whispered praise against her skin instead of commands.

"You're beautiful," Selene said, voice barely audible over the hum of the water. "You're mine… and I protect what belongs to me."

Ava didn't speak. She only leaned her head against Selene's chest, letting the warmth of the moment wash over her.

And when they returned to the penthouse that night—after a quiet dinner, after soft smiles and locked glances—Selene didn't bind her. She didn't tease or ravage.

She kissed her gently. Tucked her into bed. And for the first time, Ava fell asleep with the CEO's arms wrapped loosely around her, no tension, no anticipation.

Just trust.

And that, Ava realized as her eyelids fluttered shut, was the most powerful form of control Selene had ever held.

The next morning ava wake up smell foods coming from the kitchen she get up to go to the kitchen only to be greet by selene good morning sunshine, how was your night?Ava reply by saying it was good then she when to the bathroom.

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