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It's my first day in Big City, and I can already tell it's so much different from where I grew up. In the country, everything was simple—everyone knew everyone, whether you liked it or not. It was definitely comforting, even if it was stifling at times.But there was a problem. The country didn’t offer many opportunities job wise, especially when your parents completely fuck it up for you. So, after a lot of thought, I decided to take a chance on the city. I applied for a few positions and, to my surprise, got hired as a gardener for a wealthy family called the "Remingtons."I’ve never been fond of rich, snobby people, but this job pays better than anything I could find back home. Maybe they won’t be so bad. I loved the country life, but the lack of opportunities and room for growth made me feel like I was stuck.The drive into the city was longer than I expected, and by the time I arrived, I was starving. I spotted a coffee shop and pulled over, even though I’m not really a coffee drinker. I figured they’d have something to quench my thirst and fill my stomach.I walked into Big Coffee and approached the counter, where a young woman with a name tag that read Gloria greeted me."Welcome to Big Coffee! What can I get you today?" she asked with a friendly smile."Uh, yeah," I said, trying not to sound too awkward, "I’ll take a chocolate chip muffin and a water, please." I glanced at her name tag again. "Thank you, Gloria."She quickly handed me my order, and I took a seat by the window, savoring the warm, comforting muffin. Surprisingly, it hit the spot. I finished quickly, thanked her again, and headed out the door.The Remingtons’ manor was just a short drive away, and I arrived in under 10 minutes.Wow. This place was massive—nothing like the houses back in the country. It looked like something out of a magazine. The kind of home you see on TV and never think you’ll actually step foot in.I parked and took a deep breath, feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. I stepped out of my car and walked up to the grand entrance, trying my best not to trip on the pristine marble steps. My hand hovered over the doorbell for a moment, but I quickly knocked, terrified of even scratching the surface of this pristine home.The door swung open, and a couple in their forties greeted me with warm smiles. They were dressed impeccably, their clothes expensive but not overly flashy."Hello! You must be our new gardener," the woman said, her voice calm but with a hint of curiosity."Yes, that’s me," I replied, trying to match their level of composure."We're the Remingtons," the man introduced himself. "Come in. We’ll show you to your room."They led me inside, and I tried not to gawk at the extravagant decor. The house felt like a museum, with high ceilings and elegant furniture at every turn. They showed me my room, and I couldn’t help but feel a little awestruck.“This is your room,” Mrs. Remington said, gesturing to the spacious area. “It’s right next door to our bodyguard. Please, make yourself comfortable.”I stood frozen for a moment, my eyes darting from the giant four-poster bed to the intricately designed furniture. I could hardly believe it. This was my room?“Bodyguard?” I asked, trying not to sound too shocked. “You have a bodyguard?”“Yes, yes,” Mr. Remington answered, a bit casually. “He’s out with our son right now, but you’ll meet everyone at dinner. Don’t worry, we’ll give you time to settle in.”They both smiled and left the room, closing the door behind them. I let out a long breath and began unpacking, my mind racing with questions I wasn’t sure I was ready to answer.As I finished organizing my things, the quiet of the room was broken by a sudden knock at the door.I slowly opened the door, my heart fluttering as I was met with a vision I wasn’t prepared for. There, standing tall and confident, was the most striking man I had ever seen. His jawline was perfectly chiseled, sharp and strong, complementing his sculpted physique that spoke of hours spent in a gym. His long blue hair cascaded down in soft waves, a striking contrast against his deep-set eyes, hidden behind sleek glasses. He looked like he belonged in another world entirely, far beyond anything I could have imagined. And yet, there he was.My breath caught in my throat as I stood there, just staring. He wasn’t just handsome—he was beyond words.“Miss, dinner is ready,” his voice broke through my dazed thoughts, rich and smooth like warm honey. “The Remingtons would like you to join us.”Even his voice seemed to hold a kind of perfection, effortlessly pulling me from the haze I’d fallen into.“Y-yes, sir,” I stammered, trying to gather myself.He raised an eyebrow, a hint of amusement in his eyes. Had I said something wrong? My cheeks flushed in embarrassment.“Follow me,” he instructed, and I nodded, trailing behind him as we moved down the hall.His suit pants clung to his legs in a way that made my heart skip. The muscles in his thighs were evident, strong and well-defined. I quickly averted my eyes. Shit, what was wrong with me? I barely knew this man, and already my thoughts were taking a turn I wasn’t proud of. I didn’t even know his name.Was he a butler? Or maybe... a bodyguard? His build didn’t scream “servant.” More like “protector.” Either way, I couldn't help but wonder what role he played here. I had to focus—this wasn’t the time for these kinds of thoughts.We arrived in a kitchen that could have easily fit an entire restaurant. The counters were sleek, marble gleaming under the soft lights, and the space felt so grand that it made me feel even more out of place.And then my thoughts shifted again—what if there was something else in this house that was as huge as the kitchen? Why was my mind going there?I quickly snapped out of it, pushing the thought aside as I focused on the people seated at the long dining table. The Remingtons, a couple I assumed to be their son, a kid with a bowl cut, and, of course, the striking man who had led me here."Miss Lilith, I hope you’re settling in well," Rashida, the woman at the head of the table, greeted me warmly. "Allow me to introduce everyone. This is my husband, Russel. Our son, Remy, and his friend, Cricket. And of course, our bodyguard, Vasquez."So, he was the bodyguard, then. That made sense. With a build like that, there was no way he could be just a butler. He must have been capable of incredible strength.I allowed my mind to wander again—what kind of strength? What could he do?I quickly tried to focus on the conversation. "So… when do I start working?" I asked, trying to distract myself. It was harder than I expected with him standing so close."Next week," Rashida explained. "We want you to get comfortable with the house and the city first. Tomorrow, Vasquez, Remy, and Cricket will be running errands. If you'd like, you’re welcome to come along.""I’d like that... if it’s okay with Vasquez," I said, my voice faltering slightly. I glanced at him, hoping my admiration didn’t show too much."Of course, Miss," he replied, his voice smooth and monotone. "We’d be glad to have you join us."I swallowed hard, trying to keep my composure. His voice… it was so deep. Why was that so attractive?"You’re from the country, right?" Remy asked suddenly, pulling me back to the conversation."Oh! Yeah, I’m from the country," I answered, a little surprised at his enthusiasm."THE COUNTRY?!" Cricket leapt up from his seat, eyes wide with excitement. "That’s where I’m from too!"I chuckled, trying to follow his sudden energy. "Really? What part?""Smallton," he said, practically bouncing. "You ever been there?"I nodded, telling him I’d looked for work around that area once, and we spent a few minutes bonding over that common ground. It was nice, especially considering how awkward I’d felt walking into this grand house earlier."Dinner was amazing, Mrs. Remington. Thank you so much," I said, turning to Rashida once the meal was over.She smiled warmly, waving it off. "It’s our pleasure, Lilith. We’re glad to have you here. Now, we’re going to head to bed. Feel free to relax down here, or go up to your room whenever you like."Russel and Rashida hugged Remy before heading upstairs, and then Vasquez did the same with Remy and Cricket, before they bolted upstairs to their rooms."Goodnight, Master Remy. Sleep well," he said, his voice softening slightly as he bent down to hug the boys. Then, he turned his attention back to me, standing taller, looking down at me with those dark sunglasses."Would you like a hug too?" His voice was low, teasing.I froze for a moment. Did he mean that seriously?"Oh no! I didn’t mean to—""I was joking, Miss," he replied with a hint of amusement, though his tone stayed even.Shit. I laughed nervously, relieved but embarrassed. "I’m not great with jokes either."He nodded, his expression softening just a little. "It’s alright."I shifted uncomfortably. "I, uh, don’t quite remember how to get back to my room. This house is so big, I’ll probably get lost.""I’ll escort you," he said, already moving toward the hallway. "Follow me.""Thanks. So… where are we going tomorrow?" I asked, trying to make conversation to avoid overthinking again."Just around the city. I have a few things to pick up for Mr. and Mrs. Remington, and the kids can do whatever they want after that.""That sounds nice. Are you sure it’s okay for me to join?""Of course," he assured me, his voice as steady as ever. "In fact, if you’d like, you’re welcome to hang out in my room before you turn in for the night."I blinked, speechless. "Really? Okay… that sounds fun. Thanks.""You’re welcome." He opened the door to his room, holding it for me. "You can turn on the TV and watch whatever you like. I’ll take a quick shower."I felt my cheeks heat up, caught off guard by the casual nature of his offer. "Y-yeah, that’s fine."As he left, I let out a long sigh. My mind was swirling, and though I barely knew him, I already felt myself drawn to him in a way I couldn’t quite explain. I knew it was silly—he was likely out of my league, and there was no chance anything would come of this—but I couldn’t help it. A girl could dream, couldn’t she?
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Vasquez’s POV
I knew the Remingtons had hired a new maid, but I never expected her to be... well, like that.She’s beautiful.It’s not just her looks—though they’re undeniable—it’s the way she carries herself, with an effortless grace that makes me feel like an awkward mess. I can tell she noticed something was off with me, too. I’ve never gotten this flustered over a girl before. Honestly, I’ve never been in a real relationship, not one I cared about or really consented to, at least. But now, with her... everything feels different. I need to be realistic, though. A girl like her—gorgeous and confident—would never want anything to do with someone like me.I invited her to my room, trying to keep my cool, but the nerves hit me hard. I ended up making some lame excuse to leave. I’m sure she thinks I’m an idiot.I step outside and begin pacing, trying to calm myself down. What is wrong with me? Normally, I’m good at keeping it together, staying level-headed, but now? I can barely think straight."Vasquez?"I jump at the sound of my name.“Master Remy!” I quickly snap to attention, straightening up. “How may I be of assistance?”“I was just going to get a glass of water, Vasquez,” Remy says casually, his arms crossed, but there's something in the way he looks at me—an almost knowing glint in his eyes. “But I think something’s wrong.”My heart races, and I feel a sudden panic rise in my chest. “Are you okay, Master Remy? Please, tell me what's wrong!”He raises an eyebrow. “What? Nothing’s wrong with me, Vasquez. I’m talking about you.”“What?” I take a step back, my mind racing. What does he know?“I think…” He pauses, his grin widening, “You’re nervous because of our new guest.” He grabs my arm in a comforting, yet knowing way. “It’s okay, Vasquez. You can talk to me. You’re not just my bodyguard—you’re also my best friend.”I sit down heavily against the wall, feeling the weight of his words settle in. Remy takes a seat beside me, his hand resting on my shoulder, the gesture oddly reassuring.“I really don’t know what’s wrong with me,” I admit, my voice quieter now. “I’ve never felt this way about anyone before…”Without missing a beat, Remy pipes up, almost too loudly, “Vasquez! You have a crush!”I quickly cover his mouth with my hand. “Shh! Someone’s going to hear you.”I pull my hand away, but not before I see Remy’s grin widen. “Vasquez, don’t worry about a thing. You’ve got this.”
Lilith's POV
Vasquez had been gone for a while. He must take really long showers, I thought, but then again, maybe that’s why he smelled so good. I was just lounging on the bed, flicking through TV channels absentmindedly, letting my mind wander. That got boring so I scrolled through my phone. Boredom had led me to my recommended accounts, and there it was—Vasquez's Snapagram profile. I couldn't help myself. Curiosity piqued, I started to dig, hoping to uncover something about him. But the man was a mystery. He hardly posted, and when he did it was just him and Remy. Damn. Was there anything in his following list? I tapped on it eagerly, only to be met with a list of familiar names. The Remingtons—Remy and someone named “Bill Green,” who seems to be related to that kid, Cricket I met downstairs. Was he... single? No, I shook my head, trying to push the thought away. Even if he was, why would someone like him want anything to do with me? I sighed deeply, feeling a bit foolish. But just as I sank further into my thoughts, I heard the doorknob turn. Vasquez stepped into the room, freshly showered, his damp hair falling slightly over his forehead. A fresh wave of that intoxicating scent filled the air. My face flushed before I could even stop myself. "I'm sorry, ma'am. I had to do something for master Remy before I got in the shower,” he said, his voice smooth and calm, but there was an odd intensity in the way he spoke to me. Hearing him call me “ma’am” made something inside me stir, something I couldn’t quite name but definitely felt. I cleared my throat, trying to regain my composure. "It's okay..." I stammered, "Um... h-how was your shower?" I fidgeted nervously with my thumbs, feeling self-conscious for no reason at all. "Very good," he said simply. Then, his gaze shifted, and he asked, "May I join you on the bed?" I blinked at him, taken off guard. "O-of course. It’s your room. I just turned something random on TV. We can watch whatever." I handed him the remote, trying my best to sound casual, but my hands were suddenly clammy. God, his hands were so big. They looked like they could engulf mine completely, and the thought made my heart race. He set the remote aside without a word, his focus now entirely on me. "What brings you to city?" he asked, his tone almost... probing, like he genuinely wanted to know. I hesitated, unsure how much to share. But the words spilled out before I could stop them. "Oh. Well, I really needed a job, and my parents... kinda ruined my chance of getting one in the country. So, I didn’t really have a choice but to come here." His brow furrowed slightly. "Your parents?" "Yeah," I continued, trying to keep my voice steady. "They didn’t want me to move out, to make my own decisions. They went around town telling employers I was lazy, that I’d steal inventory... even though none of that was true. They were just... control freaks. So, I left. They even tried to take a bunch of my things when I left as some sort of punishment, but I’m 28. They can’t control me forever." I paused, my throat tightening. "I just didn’t want to be 30 fucking years old still living with them." I realized I had probably overshared, and I quickly added, "Shit. I’m sorry. I’ve been talking your ear off." Vasquez smiled slightly, his gaze soft. "It’s fine, miss. I enjoy people who talk a lot. Besides, we’ve just met. If you’re going to be my co-worker, I should know a bit about you." I couldn’t help but feel a bit flattered by his words. "Yeah, I guess that’s true... but I want you to get a word in too," I muttered, twirling my fingers nervously. "I’d rather just sit here and listen to you... if that’s okay?" he said, his voice calm and reassuring. I blinked at him in disbelief. "Are you sure? You don’t have to pretend. It won’t hurt my feelings..." "No, miss. I like hearing you talk. I promise." His hand landed gently on my shoulder, the weight of it both grounding and electrifying. My face turned bright red, and I could hardly think straight. "Well... uhh..." I trailed off, feeling my exhaustion creep up on me. I yawned, trying to cover it with a quick smile. "I’m getting a little tired." "You need to rest. We have a big day tomorrow." His voice dropped into a softer tone, almost tender. "I will see you tomorrow. Please, sleep well." I nodded, my heart fluttering as I stood up. I smiled at him, feeling a rush of relief as I headed back to my room. I let out a shaky breath once I was safely inside. God, he was so perfect, so composed. Everything about him drew me in. I found myself thinking about him constantly—how his presence made my pulse race, how his steady gaze seemed to calm me even when my thoughts were all over the place. It was all so new to me, this craving, this nervous excitement. I've never been in a real relationship or even felt this way about someone before. Everything else was just hookups in high school just for validation. I wasn’t sure what was happening, but I was already dreading the possibility of making a fool of myself tomorrow. But maybe... I wouldn’t have to worry about that.
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In bed, I think about Vasquez. He’s so incredible that I can barely put it into words. There's something about him, something special I can’t quite explain. I just know he’s different from anyone I’ve ever met. He's better. But that’s the problem, isn’t it? He must be taken. He probably already found someone, some stunning girl—or guy. I honestly don’t know what he’s into.I’m pulled out of my thoughts by the sound of my phone ringing. I sigh, a little too loudly.“Fuck.”I swipe the screen, answering the call. “Hey, mom…” I groan, trying my best to sound upbeat, despite the fact that I know this conversation will not go well.“When are you coming home?” Her voice cracks, the tears obvious even through the phone. “We miss you so much.”I hold my breath, trying to steady myself. “As of right now, I’m not,” I say firmly, trying to maintain control. “I told y’all this. My chances at getting a job at the country were ruined, and I can’t go back to that life.”“You don’t need a job, honey. We’ll support you, no matter what. You don’t have to worry about that.”“Mom, I’m 28,” I reply, frustration in my voice. “When I lived there, you wouldn’t let me do anything. You wouldn’t even let me listen to music or hang out with my friends. I need my freedom. I need space to breathe.”“That’s what you’re worried about?” She sounds incredulous. “That’s silly. Music and friends shouldn’t come between us.”“No, that’s not what I’m worried about,” I say, taking a deep breath, trying to stay calm despite the rising tension. “It’s not just about music or friends. It’s about me never being allowed to be my own person. I couldn’t even make my own decisions. Every time I tried to talk about having some independence, I got in trouble. I love you both, but I can’t go back to living like that.”“NO!” My mom’s voice cracks with emotion, and I can hear the anger building. “You always make stuff up about us! We never did that to you! If you don’t come home, you’re going to be in big trouble…”“This is exactly what I mean,” I say, my voice barely a whisper now. “I can’t even talk to you about this without you twisting it. Look, I have a big day tomorrow, and I need to get some sleep. If you can find a way to be civil, then I’ll talk. But now’s not the time. I love you. Goodnight.”I hang up quickly, my heart pounding. Immediately, I get three text messages from my dad, followed by another call from my mom. I can’t do this anymore. I need to carve out my own path here, in the city. Unfortunately, that path doesn’t have a place for them in it. The constant notifications buzz on my phone, but I know what needs to be done. I open their contact info and block both of them.I lean back against the bed, a long sigh escaping my lips. It feels freeing, but there's also a strange heaviness, like the weight of a decision made. But then, I think about Vasquez again. A smile tugs at my lips, despite everything. Even if I never stand a chance with him, he might just be the first real friend I make in this massive city.I wake up to the quiet buzz of my phone’s alarm. Today’s the first full day I’m spending in the city, and I have plans. Big plans. Not just any plans. Today, I’m going out with Vasquez, Cricket, and Remy. I’m not sure where they’re taking me, but I don’t care. I’m ready.lI stare at my closet, wondering what to wear. Casual? Casual works. I pull on a pair of ripped, baggy jeans and slide on some fishnet stockings underneath. I reach for my black band t-shirt—one of my favorites, Korn. I never got to wear this shirt when I lived with my parents, and in some odd way, putting it on feels like a little rebellion, like a reminder that I’m finally my own person. It's a bit scary, but it’s also liberating.Sitting down at the vanity, I start my makeup routine: dark winged eyeliner and some deep eyeshadow. Nothing too dramatic, but enough to make me feel like I’m owning this day.A small smile plays on my lips as I finish up. For the first time in forever, I feel pretty—not just physically, but like I’m finally allowed to be me. No one’s here to criticize or change me. It’s strange… but a good strange.I finish brushing my teeth and run my fingers through my hair. I put on my shoes, grab my purse, and head downstairs, the smell of pancakes wafting through the air.When I reach the kitchen, I stop in my tracks. Vasquez is cooking, wearing a girly apron, and something about it is… unexpectedly cute.“Good morning, y’all. Nice apron,” I say before I can stop myself, my voice laced with an awkward chuckle.Vasquez glances at me with a blank expression, and my stomach drops. Shit. That was dumb.“Good morning!” Cricket and Remy chorus together, both of them mid-chew, giggling about who knows what.Remy pats a seat next to him, and I sit down.“How’d you sleep?” Remy asks, handing me a plate.“Thank you. I slept really well,” I reply, taking a bite of pancake. “These are delicious.”Vasquez nods, removes his apron, and takes a seat beside us. I suddenly wish he would talk more. His voice is incredibly rugged, and damn, it’s attractive.“So, today we’re going to the mall!” Remy says, practically bouncing in his seat.“Awesome,” I smile, feeling my excitement building. I’ve never really gotten to go to the mall much. This will be fun.“Miss… do you listen to Korn?” Vasquez asks suddenly, gesturing toward my shirt.I blink, a little surprised. I didn’t think he’d actually speak to me. “Yeah, I love them. What’s your favorite song?”He falls silent for a moment, thinking. “I know it’s basic, but definitely Freak on a Leash… It’s popular for a reason.”I grin. He listens to Korn? A part of me can’t believe it, but it’s kind of awesome. “Hmm… probably Children of the Korn or Somebody, Someone,” I answer, trying not to go full music nerd on him.“Good choice, miss,” he says with a smile.“Just Lilith is fine,” I reply, the corners of my mouth lifting.He nods, his expression softening. “Are you all ready to go?”Cricket and Remy both nod enthusiastically.We all walk outside, where a limo is waiting for us. The more I see of this place, the more I’m in awe.I really like it here.