As I stepped off the plane and into the Zurich airport terminal, I craned my neck to see the bustling gates and signs in German and French. It was my first time outside of the United States, and the unfamiliar sights and noises were exciting, if a little intimidating.As we made our way to baggage claim, Agatha didn't seem to share my wonders or fears. She was on familiar territory here, surveying the crowd calmly for whoever was going to pick us up.A neat young man in an elegant suit shortly approached, holding a sign with our names. He briskly introduced himself as Elias, the leader of "Ms. Bach's household staff." I blinked in amazement as he took us outside in a nice town car. Agatha clearly lived well here.The Swiss countryside passed by beyond the tinted windows as we drove toward the city. Agatha made light talk, pointing out locations, but my jet-lagged head couldn't take it all. I still didn't know what awaited me here.When we arrived at an elite tower apartment building d

The rest of the week was a blur as I settled into classes at the elite Swiss academy. Despite the high course load, I thrived in the intensively focused setting.Every few days, I would make a video call to my grandmother. I was happy to see her smiling and learn about her improved health after receiving competent care. She inspired me to persevere.When Friday evening arrived, I dressed in the finest designer clothes and wore a golden watch, embracing my identity as Paul. I still felt hesitant about really embodying this persona, but tonight it was important.The beautiful town car dropped me off in front of an upscale club downtown. Though there is a legal drinking age back home, money seems to waive those regulations here. I took a breath and stepped inside. I was directed to the busy VIP lounge. I scanned the crowd and recognized a few individuals from school, despite the fact that we had barely spoken. My arrival drew confused looks.One broad-shouldered

"Adam," she purred, and the sound of her voice made my spine tingle. "You've been such a good boy, haven't you?"Agatha was there in a black dress that stuck to every curve. Her hair fell over her shoulders in a smooth, midnight-wave stream. As she walked toward me, her cat-like grin got larger and her slow, hypnotic steps became more hypnotic. I could feel the heat rising inside me, and my heart was beating fast. It was up to her to control me, and I couldn't take my eyes off of her."Y-yeah," I stuttered, and my voice was almost a whisper. "I've tried to be good."As her fingers moved slowly down my arm, they left behind warm, tingly feelings. "Oh, but being good is overrated, don't you think?" she purred, her breath warm against my ear.I couldn't deny the truth in her words, not when she was so close, her body brushing against mine. The world around us faded as desire devoured every inch of my being.Without notice, Agatha's lips took mine in a searing kiss, and I submitted to the

As I drifted in and out of awareness, I was overcome by the harsh antiseptic scent of the clean hospital room. Each breath delivered new stabs of anguish through my sensitive ribs, but the pain pills helped calm my beaten body enough for fitful sleep. Tonight I will face troubles, but for now, rest was a small present.Agatha's alert monitoring allowed no other guests. She refused to leave my side, pacing like a caged animal and making harsh comments to any staff who seemed too tentative in their care. Her ferocious protectiveness in these intimate moments surprisingly reminded me of her secret depths beneath the arrogant exterior. Though allies for ease alone, perhaps more lied beneath.Two days passed slowly. Finally discharged, the elegant sedan drove me back to the luxurious penthouse in silence. As we rose, Agatha offered soothing support to me, her hand s

A birthday dinner for comatose Paul? it seemed yet another absurd manipulation in Philippe's web of lies. Yet despite my frustration, I couldn't ignore the sadness in Philippe's eyes when he spoke of his sick father. For all his dramatics and schemes, the man clearly still sought the approval and love of the only family he had left. I understood that longing all too well.Philippe's revelation about the fake birthday video brought some relief. At least I wouldn't have to actually attend an absurd party for comatose Paul. But resentment still simmered within me over his endless manipulation. "Fine, I'll record a quick video message," I said tiredly. "But this is absolutely the last favor I'll do for your schemes."Philippe nodded gratefully, the corners of his mouth turning up in a sad smile. "I understand completely, Adam. Just this one task, and then I promise no more requests from me."I sighed, hoping he was sincere this time. The enticing smells of cooking food drifted in from th