CHAPTER FOUR (ELARA'S POV)

Elara raised a brow in surprise. “Killian Hayes.” She said smoothly, trying to mask the nerves bubbling within her. “We've never met, I'm surprised you know my name.”

 His lips curved into a slow, predatory smile. “You certainly know how to make an entrance. You made quite the impression tonight.” His gaze scanned her body, lingering on her curves for a moment too long before returning to her eyes. “You're a hard woman to miss, especially tonight.”

 “Did you enjoy the show?”

 “Yes, very much.” He replied smoothly, taking a step closer. She saw a slight amusement dance in his eyes and I made him devastatingly handsome. “What was the need for such, though?”

 Elara tilted her head to meet his eyes as a playful smirk tagged at the corner of her lips. “Bold moves for bold results, isn’t that what you always say?”

 Killian chuckled, the sound low, warm and oddly comforting. It sent a tingle down her spine. “Touché.” His gaze softened slightly as he studied her. “You’ve come back with a purpose, haven’t you?”

 Elara matched his gaze evenly. “You could say that.”

 Killian’s smile faded, replaced by a sudden seriousness that made her pulse quicken as curiosity lit up inside her. “From your ‘show’ tonight I could tell it had something to do with those two.” He slightly inclined his head in their direction. “If you’re planning to go after Ivy and Aiden, you’d better be very prepared. They don’t play fair.”

 “Neither do I.” Elara said, her voice firm.

 A slow, dangerous smile grew on Killian's face. “Good. It seems we have a common goal. Then maybe we can help each other.”

 Elara raised an eyebrow. “Help each other? Why? what’s in it for you?”

 “Justice,” he said simply. “And maybe a little revenge.”

 The fierce determination in his eyes made her stomach flip, but she forced herself to stay focused. She had come too far to let anything—or anyone, distract her now.

 “I’ll think about it.” she said, her voice steady.

 He put his hand in his pocket and handed a business card over to her. “Call me.”

 With a last nod, he turned and disappeared into the crowd leaving Elara to stare after him. Her eyes drifted to the black card with gold ink on it which said:

 Killian Hayes

 CEO, Hayes Global Enterprises.

 Her lips twitched, the card was just as polished and intimidating as he was. She slipped the card into her clutch, she'll think about it later.

 ****

 The next morning, she sat at her desk in her office, the sunlight streaming in through the window. The estate has an immaculate garden which made her fall in love with it and it could be seen from her office window.

 She held the card in her hand tracing the cold letters with her finger as she weighed her options.

 Justice. Revenge.

 Killian's words echoed in her mind. She reached for her phone and dialed the number before she could second guess her decision.

 He picked up on the second ring. “Killian Hayes.” He said.

 “It’s Elara,” she said, matching his tone.

 There was a brief pause then he said. “I knew you'd call.”

 She rolled her eyes at his confidence. “Where and when?” She asked, going straight to the point.

 “My office. Noon.”

 *****

 At noon, Elara walked into the towering skyscraper of Hayes Global Enterprises. The sleek glass that lined the exterior of the entire building reflected the sun's rays and the bustling city around it. The building screamed power, wealth and influence.

 The moment she walked in, a woman approached her. “Miss. Beckett, I'm Rachael Monroe. Take the elevator to the top floor, here's the access card.”

 Elara was surprised but said nothing as she took the key card and walked to the elevator. Then did as instructed and rode to the top floor. 

 A good portion of the elevator was made of glass so she could see the breathtaking view of the entire city the further up she went. It was like something out of a painting.

 The doors slid open and revealed a luxurious reception, the walls were lined with dark wood and modern arts. The air had a faint expensive leather and cedar scent.

 “Miss. Beckett?” The receptionist said politely as she walked up to her. “Mr. Hayes is expecting you.”

 She followed her to a set of gigantic double wooden oak doors. She knocked then opened the door for Elara after receiving the go ahead from Killian on the inside.

 His office was equally as breathtaking as the rest of the building. The furniture was minimalist but luxurious, with leather chairs and steel accents and decor.

 Killian stood by the window, his back to her, he was another black tailored suit that hugged his body. He turned as she entered, his grey eyes locked with her and she felt a heat course through her body down to her core.

 “Elara,” he said, his voice deep and as smooth as silk. “Right on time.”

 “Punctuality is a habit of mine.” she said as she walked to his desk, heels clicking on the floor. “Plus, I knew you'd appreciate it.”

 His lips curved into a faint smile. “I appreciate a lot of things about you.”

 A different type of tension crackled in the air between them. It was more… intimate. He gestured for her to sit across from him and she did.

 Finally settled. She cleared her throat getting down to business. “So how are we going to help each other?”

 “By getting engaged.”

 She choked on air. What?!