Looking over the list of questions, I tucked a strand of hair behind my ear and focus on the task at hand.

"Let's get started with the questions," I said struggling with that damn recorder once again.

"Allow me," he says, smoothly turning on the device with expert precision, flashing a smirk at my nerves.

Trying to maintain a professional demeanor, I sit up straight, straighten my shoulders, and commence the interview. "You've achieved a lot at such a young age. To what do you owe your success ?" I inquire, looking up from my notes and anticipating his response.

"I have a knack for understanding people. I know what motivates them and how to inspire and incentivize them. I have a great team that I reward accordingly." he explains. "I also trust my instincts and can identify good ideas and talented individuals. The key to success in any business is having a strong team."

"So, you're a control freak?"

He stared at me with a serious expression and said, "Oh, I exercise control in all things, Miss Forbes." His words stirred up a mix of emotions within me.

"Your company operates in the agricultural industry, with various projects in Africa. Do you have a passion for helping the world's impoverished?" I inquired.

Initially, his gaze held admiration, but he quickly composed himself and remarked, "It's a strategic business decision." Seing my puzzled face he asked, "You do not agree?"

After a moment of contemplation, I cautiously replied, "I don't have enough information to form an opinion." He raised his eyebrows, prompting me to elaborate. "Um, I just wonder if your heart might be a bit bigger than you want to let on?"I asked tentatively.

With a wistful smile, he replied, "Some people think I have no heart at all."

"Why would they think that?" I inquired, feeling puzzled.

"Because they know me too well. But let's move on," he deflected.

I struggled to maintain my composure around him. His charm, his voice, the way he strokes his lower lip,everything about him was captivating me in a way I had never experienced before. It was getting inappropriate and I desperately wanted it to end. Bitting my lower lip, I tried to refocus, taking a look at my note I asked my next question" Do you have any interests outside of work?"

" I have a fondness for painting anything that catches my eye" he said , arching his eyebrows at me with a mysterious smile, "And I enjoy various physical pursuits."

"Um..."

Seeing me at a loss for words ,he let out a small chuckle. His smile reached his eyes for the first time, making my cheeks turn red. Damn his dimples !How was he able to affect me like this? To calm myself down, I took a sip of water, placed the glass on the coffee table, and crossed my legs. Trying to distract myself, I bit my lip and pushed away any inappropriate thoughts.

"Are you gay?" I blurted out, shocked at my own question. Mr. Mikaelson, looked at me with an amused expression.

"No, Caroline I am not gay." He replied with a smile.

Hearing him say my name sent shivers down my spine, What is he doing to me?!

"I'm sorry, Mr. Mikaelson , Bonnie can be a bit..." I tried to explain.

"Intrusive?" he offered still amused.

"Curious?" I nervously added ,chewing on a pen.

"What about you? Why don't you ask me something that you want to know? " he asked firmly.

"Earlier, you mentioned that there are people who know you well. Why do I get the feeling that it's not entirely true?" My question left him speechless and before he could answer, a redhead girl entered and informed him of his next meeting. "Please cancel it. We are not done here."he said ,keeping his focus on me.

"I can leave if you need to go. It's okay," I offered, realizing I was delaying him from his work.

"I'd like to know more about you."

I looked at him, surprised "There is not much to know about me." But it seemed he wasn't willing to give up just yet.

"You said you are an English major? Tell me, was it Charlotte Bronte, Jane Austen, or Thomas Hardy who first made you fall in love with literature?"

With a smile ,I answered ,"Hardy"

"Interesting choice. I would have thought you'd say Jane Austen," he replied with a smile.

"So tell me love, what are your plans after your graduation?"

"I'm just focused on getting through finals right now," I replied.

"And after that?" he asked curiously.

"I'm planning on moving here, to Seattle with Bonnie," I told him.

"We have an excellent internship program here," he mentioned, surprising me.

"I don't think I would fit in here, I mean look at me." I said, feeling flattered by his offer.

"I am looking at you," he said dreamily, making me feel flushed and breathless. Feeling overwhelmed, I decided it was time for me to leave.

.

.

.

.

.

Mr. Mikaelson accompanied me to the elevator "I hope you got everything you needed."

"I think you only answered four questions." I nervously replied him.

With all the willpower I could muster, I distanced myself from this captivating man.

"Goodbye, Mr. Mikaelson," I managed to say, extending my hand.

"I guess we'll meet again soon, love," he said, taking my hand and kissing it, sending shivers down my spine.

"Goodbye, Caroline."

"What the hell just happened in there!"

A few hours later, I returned home to find Bonnie sitting at the computer, sipping chicken soup from a mug.

"Hi, before you say anything..." I started, but she cut me off.

"You are a goddess. This is perfect."

"What?" I asked, confused by her words.

"I just received his email. He answered every question. So, tell me what was he like?"she inquired.

"He was fine " I replied.

"Fine? Just fine?" she asked incredulously.

"He was very polite, courteous, and clean," I said dreamily.

"Clean?" She raised an eyebrow.

"I mean, you know smart, intense, and a little intimidating. I can understand the fascination.," I explained.

With a smile, she leaned back and looked at me amusingly. "Ah," she said with a nod.

"What? Why do you keep staring at me like that?" I questioned.

"Like what?" Bonnie innocently asked.

"Seriously!" I rolled my eyes. And after a brief moment, we both erupted in laughter.

.

.

.

.

.

.

I grabbed some sandwiches from the kitchen, and headed to my bedroom. After a long tiring day, I was ready for bed. However, as soon as I closed my eyes, thoughts of a certain British guy filled my dreams.