Dream (1)

The phone glowed accusingly on the table, Aldrich's name mocking me on the screen. There was nothing good to say. Lying to him felt like an insult to his intelligence, and I was sure those sharp blue eyes could see right through my pathetic attempts at evasion.

The interview had been an ordeal. His gaze held mine with an intensity that made me squirm, like he was trying to crack my skull open and examine my thoughts. The background check had been insane - family, health, school records, references, even a police report! Given the kind of money involved, I guess I couldn't blame Mr. Greyson for being careful. Still, it felt a little excessive.

Sitting in that opulent office, I tried to project an air of calm while Aldrich peppered me with questions. He danced around the specifics of the job, leaving me feeling like I was on trial. He'd ask a question pleasantly, then switch gears, only to circle back and rephrase it with a suspicious edge.

I knew I had nothing to hide, and yet I felt a