Chapter 1

Elena's POV

The annual school dance was in full swing, with everyone dancing as the loud music and vibrant light echoed in the background. I stood at the edge of the dance floor, staring at him. Jordan Storm. I was finally going to tell him how I felt despite my nerves; I felt a spark of hope. I clenched my punch cup and finally mustered the courage to approach him. He was surrounded by a group of boys, their laughter echoing despite the loud music. I inhaled deeply, my heart pounding heavily in my chest.

“Jordan,” I began, trying to keep my voice steady. “Can I talk to you?”

He looked at me, and a wave of surprise spread across his face that quickly turned into something else—amusement. “Sure, Elena. What's up…?” 

“I've wanted to tell you something... It's just that I've had feelings for you for a while now. I was hoping—”

Before I could finish, his expressions changed. His eyes narrowed, and a mocking laugh followed, cutting through the music. “Seriously, you really think someone like me would ever be interested in you?”

He continued laughing, and soon after his friends joined, “You're not exactly my type,” he continued his tone, dripping with disdain. “Maybe if you spent less time on junk food and more on the treadmill, you'd might have a chance.”

It seemed like the entire music had stopped and everyone erupted into laughter.

The room felt like it was closing in on me, my face burning with humiliation. 

I turned immediately and ran out of tears, blurring my vision, and in that moment I made a vow—a vow to break his heart and make him regret every word he spoke to me.

******

The towering glass of the tall skyscraper seemed to mock me. I'd come a long way from the insecure girl I was in high school, and now here I am years later.

I glanced down at my hands, which were wrapped tightly together, as though they could somehow steady my racing heart.

I've waited years preparing for this moment, but now that I was finally here, I could feel the weight of reality settling down heavily on me. 

I adjusted my blazer one last time, taking a deep breath. This wasn't just about getting the job; this was about revenge, turning the tables on Jordan Storm, making his life a complete misery.

Back in high school, Jordan Storm had been the golden boy—the type every girl longed for and every boy envied. He was undeniably handsome and had every girl at his feet—including me.

I was the chubby fat girl who didn't fit in his world. I remember the sting of rejection when I finally confessed my feelings—the way he had bodyshamed me and publicly humiliated me in front of the entire school. His words still haunt me to this day, fueling my drive to succeed and become somehow he'd wish he never crossed paths with, to prove my worth.

The building's interior was breathtaking, the marble floor and decor beautiful, but yet cold. I composed myself and headed straight to the receptionist. 

“I'm here for an interview for the position of personal assistant." I said, forcing some sort of calmness in my voice that I didn't feel at all.

The receptionist was a young lady, probably in her late 20s. Her eyes scanned the application I had handed her, then she met me with a polite nod. “Take the elevator to the twenty-fifth floor. His office is at the end of the hall.”

I nodded before heading straight for the elevator that was just opposite the corner. My stomach fluttered with nerves as I stepped in. I was finally going to meet the man who had completely humiliated me years ago. 

I was no longer the shy girl, no longer the girl who'd let people's opinions dictate my self-worth. I was confident and ready to stain the world that had once shunned me.

The elevator door finally opened on the twenty-fifth floor. I could feel my heart race as I walked down the hall, every step bringing me closer to what I had anticipated for so long.

I reached the large polished wooden door that read “MR. STORM,” taking a deep breath. I knocked it, and a deep voice from within called out.

“Come in” 

I entered the office, trying to maintain my composure. There he was, Jordan Storm, seated behind his massive mahogany desk. He looked every bit the billionaire CEO—tall, impeccably dressed, releasing an air of effortless authority. His jet-black hair was styled perfectly, and his piercing blue eyes seemed to assess everything in their path.

Ms. Rosewell,” he said, standing from his chair and extending a hand. “Please, have a seat,” he gestured.

I sat down, feeling the weight of his gaze on me. His presence was commanding, but I had come too far to daunt now. I met his gaze.

He was as handsome as ever, his breathtaking features more masculine and striking than I remember.

“I must say, your application is very impressive,” he said, leaning back on his chair. “It's admirable for someone so young. What draws you to this position?”

He didn't recognize me, which was not surprising; how would he? He had countless encounters with different women since then. Why would he remember a girl from high school?

I kept my voice steady, masking the intense focus I had on my ultimate goal. 

“I’ve long admired Storm Corp.’s innovation and leadership. I believe my skills and experience align perfectly with the needs of this role, and I’m eager to contribute to your team.”

Jordan’s eyes were keen, scanning me with an intensity that made me hold my breath. “This job demands more than skill; it requires discretion and adaptability. Are you prepared for the pressures of working closely with me?”

I nodded firmly. “I’m used to managing multiple responsibilities and handling sensitive matters.”

Jordan seemed impressed, though he didn't let it show overtly. “You certainly make a strong impression.

He nodded, seemingly satisfied. A small smirk appeared on his face. “Alright, Ms. Rosewell. I’m truly impressed with this. Resume first thing tomorrow.”

Despite his changed appearance and sophisticated demeanor, he still had the same character as before. The same selfish and self-centered player from before.

I stood up, forcing a smile. “Thank you very much, Mr. Storm.” 

As I walked out of his office, a wave of triumph mixed with anxiety washed over me. I had made it through the first phase. 

The path to my revenge was now set in motion, and one thing was certain: the real challenge was just about to begin, and I was ready to face it head-on.