Black Is the New Romance

By Shreya Solaris

College graduate meets billionaire devil in this CEO story twist. Adrienne Walker wanted nothing more than to finish college and get a good-paying job to complete what she thought was the ideal life plan. However, life is never perfect, and Adrienne learns this the hard way when she is thrust into the world of billionaires - specifically, the arms of Lazareth Noir. Their feelings are both played with, especially once it is revealed that Lazareth is not human and Adrienne's anxiety constantly impedes their relationship. However, when an old enemy tries to break them apart, can Adrienne put her perfect checklist and anxiety aside to save the one thing she swore she would never let break - her heart?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Shreya Solaris
• Release date: Mar 13, 2021
• ISBN: 9781005644246

Shreya Solaris

A girl who loves to write romance, werewolves, and billionaires! Waiting to be swept off her feet by an Alpha!

Book preview

Black is the New Romance

Shreya Solaris

©ShreyaSolaris

Chapter 1

When will this class be over?

I glanced at the clock that hung languidly on the wall, sighing. Tapping my pencil on my desk, I gazed at the rows of chairs in front of me, having to squint to get a good look at the teacher that droned unrecognizable words. She wore her pajamas, a protest for the board holding finals at six in the morning, but secretly, I hoped that they would still have the test early. The sooner I finished the dreadful exams, the better.

Beside me, Kath, my best friend, smiled down at her crotch, giggling quietly to herself every now and then. I hid my smirk behind my notebook. She was probably texting Matt, her new beau. I don't know how they met. I never got the chance to ask, and even if I cared, I didn't have the time to dwell on her love life. My own life was stressful enough.

Miss. Walker? The professor's voice rang loud and clear through the echoey room.

Yes? Hastily, I rose from my seat, knawing at my bottom lip. I curled my fingers into my palm, hoping they would sink into my skin and draw the blood I wanted to feel soothe me.

Could you please explain to Mr. Keating why we are studying every genre topic? She commanded icily. I was unsure if her fury was directed towards myself or towards Mike, but nevertheless, I twirled slightly on my heel to face the arrogant Mike Keating who smirked back at me. I scowled.

Every person here has his or her own personal taste, Mr. Keating, I explained, trying to sound robotic. We are studying each topic not only for our preferences but also to understand them properly and know which is to our liking. If we are to become part of publishing companies or make our own, then we should assure our clients that we will help them with their books. Knowing the genre of the book will not only benefit them but us as well, I explained hurriedly, my legs wobbling. Mike's eyes were emotionless, but I could see a hint of a smile passing by my professor's lips.

Thank you, Miss Walker, she said curtly. She narrowed her eyes at Mike, who didn't bother to change his lax position on his chair. I hope you understand now why we cover these subjects, Mr. Keating, and pick your words wisely next time.

Whatever you say, Prof, Mike grumbled.

She didn't say anything. Nodding towards me, she turned her back and continued on with her lecture about our most recent genre, sci-fi. I slunk back into my seat, a shaky, relieved breath of air spreading through my lungs.

Beside me, Kath tapped my arm, her phone poking from her backpack. Are you okay? She asked.

I frowned. Why wouldn't I be?

She shrugged. You seemed nervous when Professor Haynes called on you. Is everything alright?

Internally, I sucked on my tongue, hoping it would bleed so that I could have an excuse to keep quiet. I-It's really nothing. I was just taken by surprise at the question. You know how I hate being called on.

Kath's eyes narrowed and I winced. It wasn't easy to hide things from her and her reporter-like instincts. I just hoped that she wouldn't go into the whole Barbara Walters Inquisition in the middle of Professor Hayne's class. Our professor definitely didn't appreciate it last time.

I suppose that's valid, she finally grumbled. You are taking your meds though, right, Adrienne?

Yeah. I need them, Kath, I smiled, hoping it was warm enough for her to turn away and continue texting Matt. I didn't want to talk, anyway.

"Read chapters 7 and 8 of Emma and be prepared for a quiz tomorrow, Professor Haynes shouted over the much-anticipated bell. Mr. Keating, please stay back for a few moments. I would like to speak to you."

I caught Mike giving me a nasty look from the corner of my eye, but I ignored him, raising my head high and striding out of the stuffy room. Kath and I had lunch to get before my work at the library began. I didn't have time to waste on him.

My backpack felt lighter than usual. Maybe it was because finals were approaching. Teachers were certainly backing down on the amount of work they bestowed upon us. I shouldn't be complaining, I suppose. Having less work is a blessing, really. I can focus more on my job and my search for a new one after graduation.

What do you want to eat? I vaguely heard Kath asking me as we stood in line at Panera. I regarded our surroundings quickly, smiling at her.

Just a sandwich is fine, I said. And maybe some soup?

Sure, she grinned. She looked down at her phone, then back at me. You sure gave Mike a talking today, huh, Adrienne?

I blushed. Yeah. I didn't expect her to call on me out of everyone in the room, but I'm glad I was able to think of something. At least I didn't make myself look like a fool in front of everyone.

You? A fool? Kathryn scoffed. You never are a fool, Adrienne. You're smart. And you know that.

I suppose, I mused. Kath's phone pinged as the line moved, and I smirked at her. Matt again?

She flushed. Yes. I want to introduce him to my parents so we're trying to set a date.

I smiled, despite the burning feeling that pricked at the corner of my eyes. That's awesome! I'm glad you're moving on from Henry.

She scowled. Henry was a jerk. I know that now. If I ever think about him, it's just to wonder how I was so stupid to date him in the first place.

I shrugged. We all make mistakes.

We got our food after a long, boring wait in line, settling at a small bench in the cafe. At first, it surprised me as to how many little stores GreyHorn University had, but I wasn't questioning it. After all, it was free food. Who was I to complain about that?

Did you hear about the person who will be speaking at our graduation? Kath asked suddenly, pounding her fork into her salad.

I set my sandwich down carefully, raising my eyebrow. No...who?

Lazareth Noir, she giggled.

I rolled my eyes. Oh god. Not this again.

What? She defended. He's super sexy, you can't deny that!

I wasn't denying anything, I said. I just don't understand your infatuation over him, Kath.

Uh...duh? He's the richest man in the world? And he's speaking at our graduation! Kathryn squealed. I even hear that he'll be offering job interviews to some of the students!

Again, I rolled my eyes, sighing. Awesome. What does he do, again?

He owns Olympian Deals, some real estate company, Kath explained. He started from scratch and made one of the biggest companies in the world! Hell, it surpasses Google and Amazon—combined!

Good for him, I snapped, biting hard into my sandwich.

Kath frowned. What is it? You don't like Lazareth Noir?

I don't even know the guy, Kath, I murmured. And I'd rather not, quite frankly.

Oh? Why do you say that? Kathryn questioned, leaning over the table, twirling her hair.

I wrinkled my nose. Getting involved with CEOs usually brings a lot of drama. I'm not willing to go into that world.

Even if that world is passionate and sexy? She prodded, her grey eyes sparkling.

Even so. I let out a deep exhale. Look, I'm sure he's a very nice man, but being involved in their world is not a risk I'm willing to take, Kath. What if I get hurt?

So? Love is love, she leaned back on her chair, taking a bite of her food. Life is full of risks, Adrienne. We have to take them at some point.

Then you can do it, I decided. If Matt becomes rich and famous like Lazareth Noir, then you can step into the limelight. Just leave me out of it.

Kath shrugged. Whatever you say, Adri.

Miss. Walker? Professor Alvarez's cool, collected voice brushed my ear. Shivers trickled down my spine and I tilted my head up to meet his hard, steely eyes.

Yes, Professor Alvarez? I replied immediately, almost dumbly.

If you are done with your lunch, I would like to speak to you in my classroom. His voice was calm—nerve rackingly so.

O-Of course, sir, I stammered, failing to collect myself. Is something wrong?

He shook his head, a soft but tight smile crossing his lips. No, Miss. Walker. I simply wish to speak to you about a task I would like for you to complete for me.

O-Oh... I glanced at Kathryn. She jerked her head towards her phone.

I'll see you after work, She mouthed, passing Professor Alvarez a hard stare before gathering her things and leaving the cafeteria.

So, what would you like me to do, Professor Alvarez? I questioned timidly, avoiding bringing my gaze to his.

His cold stare burned into me, a languid smirk spreading over his pale lips. I presume that you already know about Mr. Noir and his speech at our graduation ceremony happening shortly?

Yes? I quirked my eyebrow. Where was he going with this?

We have requested an interview with him for the school paper, Mr. Alvarez continued. He agreed, and the interview is scheduled for Friday. Do you think you'll be able to come up with a list of questions to ask him for the interview?

I stared at him uncomprehendingly, my mouth unceremoniously ajar. Inside, my heart thrummed against my chest, like it was trying to escape and hide in some closet. W-What do you mean?

Are you hard of hearing? He sneered. Mr. Noir is willing to have an interview with us. It will be published in public newspapers as well as our personal newspaper for the school. I would like for you to conduct the interview.

Why me? I blurted, thoroughly confused. I'm not even a part of the newspaper club!

What seemed to be a sadistic smirk spread across Professor Alvarez's features. I suppose you could say that I have been...studying you, Miss. Walker. You have exceptional talent, especially in the literature department. I would like for Mr. Noir to see your talent. Perhaps he will even offer you an interview?

He slid forward an old recorder and a few pages of lined paper, like what middle school kids would use for an essay. Write your questions here. The recorder is for you to use only when you interview Mr. Noir. Bring your list back by tomorrow for me to proofread. As soon as everything is acceptable, I will schedule for you and Mr. Noir to meet. He gave me a pointed look. Any questions?

Um...what time will the meeting be? I asked softly, trying to hide the tremor in my voice.

Why?

My little brother has a concert that I would like to be present for, I replied curtly, gathering some confidence. If the interview conflicts with his concert, I'm afraid I'll have to decline.

Professor Alvarez stayed silent for a few moments, but then, a wisp of a smile touched his lips.

Ever the fireball, aren't you, Adrienne? He murmured. He cleared his throat. I was told that the meeting would take place somewhere around 10 pm. I winced, and he at least had enough of an ego to look slightly ashamed. I know. I apologize for the late timing, but it will be on campus in the cafeteria. Will that be okay for you?

I reached for my phone and scrolled through the many apps littering my space before I finally was able to track down the calendar app.

His concert is at 6. I should be able to have my older brother take care of him, I said, smiling. Professor Alvarez nodded stiffly, handing me the materials I needed and sending me on my way quickly.

It wasn't until I was on my way back to the dorm Kath and I shared that I realized just what I had signed myself up for. An interview. With Lazareth Noir. The biggest billionaire in the world and the richest man alive. And, according to Kath, the most coveted bachelor in America. My heart hadn't stopped racing since I left Professor Alvarez's office and it was now that I realized my palms were sweaty.

Opening the door to our shared dorm, I spotted Kath immediately. She was on a Skype call with her brother, Kevin. Quickly, I saw her close the call as the door groaned closed behind me.

Hey, Adrienne, she greeted, getting up to give me a hug. What's up? What did Alvarez want?

I slammed the papers onto the table, dropping into a crisscross pose on the ground, my head in my hands. Kath sat next to me, taking the papers slowly.

He wanted me to interview Noir, I mumbled through my fingers.

She gasped. Really? When?

Friday.

What?! Now she slammed the papers. I looked up from my lap. Her eyes were sparkling. Well, I'll be damned. Seriously, Adrienne?

I giggled. Yeah. I'm going to actually talk to your sexy billionaire.

"First of all, I never said he was my billionaire, Kath chuckled. But...fuck, Adrienne..."

I know, I sighed, dropping my head against the front of the couch. I have to prepare some questions and... god, study!

Kath grinned, tapping the papers against my knee. Well then, let's get started.

Chapter 2

 My feet felt heavy as I trekked to Professor Alvarez's office the next day. The library was in the farthest part of campus, meaning that it would take me extra time to get there, especially after lunch when there was rush hour. 

Kath and I agreed to meet after my work was finished, mostly so she could gush about Lazareth Noir. Despite having a boyfriend, I didn't understand what made Kath so infatuated with him. I didn't bother to look up a picture of him but based on her descriptions, he sounded to be a young, handsome man in his twenties.

Or, I could just be making a wild assumption and he's an old, fifty-year-old guy with a goatee, I grumbled to myself, clutching my books closer to my chest. The hardcovers pressed through the loose fabric of my shirt and against my skin, grafting. I felt the small notebook I carried around with me slide against my chest, but I ignored it. If it fell, I would just pick it up. Or, hopefully, someone else would pick it up for me.

Unless chivalry is dead, I thought, snickering to myself.

As I reached the library, the hallway began to clear. There weren't many classes by Professor Alvarez's room, anyway. Nobody wanted to be within six feet of the cold professor, at least, nobody who didn't have classes with him.

Hey, Walker! Mike's nasal voice echoed in the hallway. Footsteps clicked in a rush behind me, and I swallowed a groan. I had hoped he would have gone to his day job already, but clearly, I was wrong. Either that, or he purposefully stayed behind to stalk me.

What do you want, Michael? I snapped, turning slowly on my heel to face his cold green gaze. Forget Professor Alvarez. Mike's eyes were ten times scarier when he was angry.

Where are you going? He asked, ignoring my brisk welcome. He leaned against the pillar beside my head. Brown, curly locks of hair brushed his haughty cheekbones, smirking with his lips.

I rolled my eyes. Why do you care?

Because you're my friend, obviously! He clutched his heart. How cruel, Walker!

I don't see anything cruel about a question, Keating, I scoffed. And why do you keep calling me by my last name? You know my name's Adrienne.

I do, but I prefer to annoy you, Mike shrugged. Your face scrunches up when you're annoyed. It makes you look cute.

I wrinkled my nose, taking a cautious step away from him. Um...thanks, I guess? But seriously, Mike, what do you want?

Where are you going? He repeated, shuffling his feet.

I'm going to see Professor Alvarez quickly before I head to my job, I sighed, resisting the urge to roll my eyes at him. Why? Where are you going?

Why are you going to see Old man Alvarez? Mike sneered, ignoring my question again. You got detention with him?

We aren't in middle school anymore, Mike, I growled. No, he asked me to do him a favor—!

Ooh. Are you fucking him for good grades? Mike interjected, his eyes sparkling cruelly. Damn, I never pegged you as that type of gal, Adri.

No, I am not, I snapped, feeling a fire igniting in my chest. It's a professional favor, Mike, and it's none of your business.

He raised his eyebrow, challenging. Is it? He purred. He stared at me for a few moments, then, in a rush of air, I felt the papers Kath and I spent all night working on being snatched from my hands.

Hey! I jumped up to grab them, but Mike was faster. He pushed me aside and I stumbled against the edge of a classroom window, just barely being able to collect myself.

Give those back, Michael! They aren't yours, I demanded. A raw fire burned around my heart, climbing up my throat.

What made you inspired to become an entrepreneur, Mike mumbled to himself, holding me firmly at arm's length. His blazing green eyes scanned the page, then met mine.

Are you interviewing Lazareth Noir? He asked.

I glared at him. As a matter of fact, I am, I answered coldly.

God damn. Mike threw the stapled packet of papers at me. Fuck him while you two are alone in the cafe, 'kay? He's one hell of a catch.

What is your problem? I asked sharply, shoving the packet into my books. I strode closer to him. He smelled like alcohol. Why do you always antagonize me? Why can't you leave me alone?

Geez, Adri, what's with all the questions? Mike sneered. He leveled my glare back at me, and suddenly, he seemed more frightening.

J-Just answer them, I ordered, my chest heaving.

Mike scowled. I would think you would know why I'm not leaving you alone, He spat. But then again, it still amazes me as to how you got into GreyHorn Uni—what with that insect-sized brain of yours.

I gaped at him. Insect sized brain? Excuse me?

He smirked. You heard me, Adrienne. You may be the superstar girl of campus and Professor Hayne's favorite doggy, but you'll always be the same, bitchy whore you and I both know you are—!

Ahem. Professor Alvarez's sharp cough brought both Mike and my eyes towards him. His cold grey irises icily glowered at Mike. Is there a problem here, Mr. Keating?

Mike's jaw clenched. Of course not, Prof! He smiled. "I was just catching up with my best friend."

His words were like venom spewing from his lips. His arm around my hip was tight, as though he was trying to squeeze the life out of me.

Shoo. Professor Alvarez waved his hand. "Catch up with your best friend in your free time, Michael. I'm sure Miss. Walker already told you, but we both have some important matters to work into."

But—!

Leave. Professor Alvarez's voice held no room for debate. He glared at Michael, who hastily pulled away from me and scampered down the hallway. I smirked to myself. Mike may pretend to be a big-shot, but even he couldn't stand up to the wrath of Professor Alvarez.

Miss. Walker, he nodded towards me, leading me into his office. I presume you and Miss. Kathryn, had a ball brainstorming questions for Mr. Noir?

I flushed, fumbling for the packet. Uhm, yes, sir. We came up with a few. I handed him the packet, bending my head.

He took it from me, grunting every now and then. I didn't look up to see his reaction. I wasn't even sure if I wanted to. Criticism given to me was poorly handled by my anxious brain.

This is all very good, he murmured, handing the papers back to me. His cold grey eyes assessed me, thawing ever so slightly. Professor Alvarez, with warm grey eyes and a silly black mustache and vampire pale skin. I never thought I would describe him with warm grey eyes, but in the heat of the moment, it definitely looked like Antarctica had thawed in his orbs.

Is there anything that needs to be changed?

No. Just pick four or five that you feel you will be most comfortable asking Mr. Noir tomorrow, he requested. You may leave if you have no further questions.

Yes, sir.

I practically bolted out of the room, the papers flurrying around me. I needed to get to work. Picking five questions could wait. All I had to do was pick the simplest ones, after all. That would make my life and Mr. Noir's life much easier. After all, why would he want to stay in the same room with a measly college student for longer