Chapter 27 Hostage
"Sir, you might want to consider the 1,800 square feet option—it's a single-story grand apartment and has excellent usable space. The 3,000-square feet unit is actually an oversized duplex with a very high ceiling of about 20 feet; however, you would need to climb stairs to reach the second level. I noticed you're using a cane, suggesting that mobility might be a challenge for you. I think the duplex may not be well-suited to your everyday living needs..."
The man looked at Juniper with a newfound appreciation. "You're quite thoughtful, young lady, looking out for what I might need."
Juniper responded with equal measures of humility and grace, offering him a gentle smile. "Of course, Sir. Take your time looking around. Choosing a home is an important decision; it's always good to consider all your options."
They continued to browse for several more minutes.
Juniper brought a glass of water over to the elderly gentleman, "Sir, may I have your name?"
"Abbott. And you are?"
Straightening her name badge on her chest, she replied, "I'm Juniper."
Mr. Abbott glanced at the badge, nodding in understanding, "Juniper, huh? Well, Ms. Beaumont, let's get the paperwork done."
Juniper was taken aback, "Are you sure you don't want to take another look, sir?"
"No need. I'll take the 1,940 square feet one."
After pausing for a few seconds, Juniper quickly started describing the options, "Sir, both Building 5 and Building 7 have units that can meet your requirement. Which building and floor would you prefer?"
"What do you think?"
Mr. Abbott asked for Juniper's opinion, a sign of trust already established.
"The third floor of Building 7, sir. Seven and twelve are lucky numbers."
The old man chuckled, "Then why not recommend the third floor?"
"The third would be a lower view with a less appealing vista. A distinguished client like yourself surely appreciates the daily view. The twelfth floor offers a high-rise panorama, sweeping beautiful landscapes. A good view brightens your day, improves your mood, and good fortune tends to follow."
Juniper was sweet-talking him, hitting the right notes with her words.
"Well then, I'll take your advice – Building 7, twelfth floor! Let's get that contract."
Just as Juniper was about to guide Mr. Abbott to the manager to draft the contract, Joseph hurried over.
"Miss Beaumont, there you are. I've been looking everywhere for you! I didn't have your number, and the sales team said you were here."
"Joseph? What brings you here?"
Casting a glance at the stranger beside them, Joseph lowered his voice, "Mr. Blackwood is asking for you. You need to head there now."
Juniper hesitated, "But I have a client about to sign..."
"If Mr. Blackwood gets upset, I can't cover for you. Let a colleague take care of your client."
Juniper had no choice but to say to her client, "Mr. Abbott, I apologize but I need to handle a pressing matter. Would it be alright if my colleague assists you?"
The old gentleman was quite amenable and agreed.
Across the room, Christopher spotted that a deal was almost sealed when his Rolex-clad client bolted. He rushed over and said, “Juniper, I’ve got this gentleman! You can head out!”
Juniper was quickly whisked away by Joseph, and they rushed back to the corporation.
...
In the executive office of Sycamore Group’s Building One, after ushering Juniper inside, Joseph tactfully excused himself.
This was Juniper’s first time in Magnus’s office, and the experience was much like touring his prestigious Royal View estate.
Elegant, minimalist, yet impressive.
A huge floor-to-ceiling window flooded the room with light, making it bright and clear.
But… the man’s expression seemed rather grim.
Standing under the air conditioning vent, Juniper felt a chill blow through her, sending shivers down her spine.
“Mr. Blackwood, did you need something from me?”
“Why were you late today?”
Magnus sat in his leather swivel chair, looking up at Juniper as she stood.
The gaze he leveled at her had an intimidating air of authority.
He had always assumed William was her boyfriend and had previously warned her to end that relationship.
If he knew that her tardiness this morning was due to dropping William off at the airport… He would likely be furious.
Trying to keep her composure, Juniper fibbed, “I finally landed a new job and was so excited last night that I couldn't sleep. I overslept this morning, but it won’t happen again!”
Her lie was seamless, delivered without even the slightest flicker of guilt on her face.
His dark eyes scrutinized her. “Really? I thought you were the Flash, could be in two places at once—one asleep at home and the other at the airport seeing off a man.”
“…”
Before Juniper could respond, Magnus tossed his phone right in front of her.
On the screen was an image of her embracing William at the airport.
Her mind went blank for a moment. “How did you get these pictures? Have you been following me?”
“Don’t flatter yourself, you're not worth that level of attention.”
Magnus didn’t need to lie, but his words were nonetheless cutting.
Swallowing hard, Juniper owned up to it, “Yes, I went to see William off. He’s taking a position out of town. He’s helped me in the past, and as a friend, I just wanted to say goodbye. That’s not unreasonable, is it?”
Magnus rose to his feet, standing before her, his dark eyes piercing her with a heavy gaze. "What kind of favor did he do for you? The kind that happens between a man and a woman in bed?"
His every word was an insult, sharp as a dagger, stabbing straight into her heart.
Juniper clenched her fists, meeting Magnus's stare as she forced a pale smile. "Isn't it obvious, Mr. Blackwood? You knew William and I used to date. Why even ask? It's only natural for a boyfriend and girlfriend to... you know. Can't Mr. Blackwood handle even that...?"
Before she could finish, his defined fingers gripped her chin forcefully.
"Juniper, have I spoiled you to the point where you can't distinguish what you can and cannot do?"
The moment she signed that agreement with him, he thought she should have known better than to ever think of William again.
"I just went to see him off, that's all," Juniper explained feebly.
"Is that so?" Scepticism etched in his tone, Magnus pinned her against the floor-to-ceiling window.
His disbelief was clear as he coldly uttered one merciless command: "Strip."
Juniper's lashes fluttered. Here? really?
The window was large, immaculate, and completely transparent...
Naturally, Juniper was reluctant, but she had sold herself to Magnus. Every demand he made, she couldn't refuse.
And if she did refuse, what then?
She was still trapped in his grasp.
Tears brimmed in Juniper's eyes. "Do I really have to do it here? Can't we go inside...?"
That was her only plea.
In front of Magnus, she was utterly powerless.
The man was cold and unemotional. "Juniper, you're in no position to make requests."
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