C2 MEETING LUCAS VON STEELE

The interview room was sleek and modern, bathed in soft, ambient light. A massive, glass-topped desk dominated the space, behind which sat Lucas von Steele himself. He looked every bit the billionaire, with his tailored suit, chiseled jawline, and an air of confidence that bordered on arrogance. His piercing blue eyes assessed her with a mix of curiosity and amusement.

Mikayla couldn't help but feel like a stark contrast to the other female candidates with their provocative attire. She had chosen to dress conservatively, emphasizing professionalism over seduction. As she met Lucas von Steele's gaze, she wondered if her decision would work in her favor or if she had misjudged the expectations of this interview.

"Ms. Roberts," he began, his tone laced with light mockery "I must say, your outfit screams 'corporate drone' or should I say modern nun' Are you sure you're up for the challenge of working in a dynamic environment like SteeleTech?"

Mikayla felt a flush of embarrassment but refused to let it deter her. She met his gaze with unwavering determination. "Mr. Steele, I believe that professionalism and competence matter more than attire. I'm here for the job, not a fashion show or a beauty contest.

Lucas von Steele leaned back in his chair, the mocking smile fading slightly. "Very well," he said, staring at her a little too intently "let's proceed with the interview. Tell me, Ms. Roberts, what unique skills do you possess that would make you the right fit for this demanding role?"

Mikayla swallowed hard, feeling the weight of the question. She knew this wasn't going to be a standard interview. "Mr. Steele," she replied, "I excel at multitasking and organization. I've managed complex projects in my previous job, demonstrating my ability to handle high-pressure situations. I'm resourceful, adaptable, and highly detail-oriented."

Lucas Von Steele's expression remained inscrutable. "Those are good qualities," he conceded. "But this position goes beyond just organizational skills. It requires discretion, loyalty, and the ability to anticipate my needs without me having to spell them out. Can you handle that?"

Mikayla met his gaze with unwavering determination. "I understand the importance of discretion in this role, Mr. Steele. I'm a quick learner, and I assure you, I can adapt to your needs and preferences."

Lucas Von Steele leaned back in his chair, tapping his fingers thoughtfully on the glass desk. "Very well," he said, "but let's talk about the elephant in the room, Ms. Roberts. You're aware of my reputation, I assume?"

Mikayla nodded, her heart pounding. "Yes, Mr. Steele, I'm aware."

His lips curled into a faint, knowing smile. "You understand that some applicants see this as an opportunity for more than just a job, right?"

Mikayla's cheeks flushed slightly, but she held her ground. "I'm here solely for the position, Mr. Steele. I have no interest in any...extracurricular activities."

Lucas Von Steele stood up from his plush leather chair, and sat down at the edge of his desk stroking his chin in thought. He studied Mikayla with an intensity that made her slightly uncomfortable. "So tell me, Mikayla, how long are you going to feign ignorance with me?" he asked out of the blue, his voice carrying a note of amusement.

Mikayla, both puzzled and surprised by his cryptic remarks, leaned forward. "Excuse me," she replied, her furrowed brows demanding an explanation.

A wry smile played on Lucas's lips as he continued to regard her. "You're really going to sit there and stare at me blatantly as if you don't recognize me, like you've never met me until now," he quipped. "If so, I must say you're quite the actress."

"I'm really sorry, Mr. Steele. I'm not sure where this conversation is going, and I'm sure you haven't met me until now, sir," Mikayla retorted, her confusion deepening.

Lucas scoffed softly. "We're the only ones here, Mikayla. You can admit it. It was a night to remember, wasn't it? You're a hard woman to find, honestly! I searched for you after that night but couldn't find someone whose name I don't know, could I?"

Mikayla's bewilderment deepened. "Night? What night? Why would you search for me, sir? I honestly do think that I'm being mistaken for someone else.

Mikayla's curiosity was piqued. She couldn't help but feel that she was missing something important. "I apologize if my memory fails me, Mr. Steele. Could you remind me of when and where we met?"

Lucas Steele's eyes twinkled with a mix of amusement and exasperation. "Well, Miss Roberts, it seems I've lost my touch at being memorable. We crossed paths few months back, though I suppose it was a rather... intimate encounter."

Mikayla's brow furrowed as she tried to recall the event he mentioned. "An intimate encounter? I'm quite certain I'd remember something like that..."

He sighed audibly cutting her off and leaned forward, staring intently at Mikayla, almost willing her to remember.

He couldn't understand why she couldn't recall something that had left a lasting impression on him, or was she simply pretending? If so, why? Despite his growing annoyance, a part of him was intrigued by Mikayla's lack of recognition, and he couldn't help but wonder how she would react if she ever discovered the truth about that night.

Lucas Steele continued to scrutinize her, his eyes never leaving her face. After what felt like an eternity, he finally spoke, "Very well, Ms. Roberts. We'll be in touch. You may leave now".

As she stood to leave, she hesitated for a moment before asking, "Mr. Steele, can you at least give me a hint or some context about this encounter you mentioned? It might help me understand what you're talking about."

"It's not worth crying over spilt milk now is there??, If the night had meant something to you, if it had been memorable ,I'm sure you'd remember. But clearly it wasn't I must say though Miss Robert my ego as a man is bruised, he replied still skeptical about her not having any recollection of him.