As the evening approached, I was worn out from the day's exhausting meetings.
Those people were arguing and standing side by side, which was frustrating and tiresome.
I made a mental note to address the situation later, as I needed time to regroup and recharge.
In my tired and angry state, I felt stressed. Suddenly, my gave a phone buzz, causing my gaze to drop slowly.
It was Rafe Montoya.
I had been expecting feedback from him for a while now.
I grabbed my phone, answering the call. "So what's the update?"
. "I've gathered information on her, boss," he began.
"Who is she?" I asked, my curiosity piqued.
"Her name is Scarlet Everston. She had an interview at Kensington Global Innovation today. I know you had your eyes on that company, so I thought this might be important."
Intrigued, I leaned forward. "How did you find all this out?"
. "I have my methods. I'm good at what I do, boss. I even managed to get her phone number. She lives with her parents, and I have all the details of her education level..."
"Impressive," I acknowledged, I knew he was the perfect man for the job...
"I want all her information emailed to me now.."
"Sure, boss, will email it once the money his sent"
"How much.."
"The same amount, boss, but this time, double it by 10%. Wasn't easy gathering it all, I would say. "
That greedy fool, I will surely let him off this time
"The money will be sent now . Send the details immediately after ..."
"Sure, boss," he said
As i hung up the call , making the necessary transfer
I waited for a couple of minutes before receiving all the information
Finally, I had all the information I needed about her. She was proving to be an intriguing subject and could be instrumental in my plans.
It was time to finalize a deal with her, especially since she appeared to be going through a tough time.
I stood up, left my office, and drove off. I sent her a message, inviting her to a café nearby her home, where I waited for her arrival.
Sitting at a table, I tapped my fingertips on the surface, my gaze fixed on the entrance.
As then i saw entering, her eyes scanning for me
With another message, I pointed out where I was
As our eyes caught on each other, I knew she was stunned to see me
"You.." she uttered in shock..
"Yeah.."
"What the hell are you doing here?"
I could sense the spark of frustration in her. Dangerous and sexy, I liked that. They just seemed to intrude me more, drawing me closer
"I am here for a deal.." I uttered
Her voice was laced with suspicion as she questioned, "What do you mean a deal, and how did you even get my number?"
My gaze locked onto her captivating eyes. "Let's just say my reach is extensive. After last night, I realized you might be of use to me."
I clasped my hands together, keeping my eyes fixed on hers.
"I'm here to propose a marriage contract to you."
"Marriage what?" She asked, bewilderment evident in her voice.
"A mutual agreement between us based on a fake marriage,"
I clarified, observing her reaction. As her eyes blazed with fury as she stood up abruptly.
"Are you serious? You should be grateful I didn't take action after last night. Don't you dare stalk me again!"
Her words were sharp and direct, but I couldn't help but let out a small chuckle.
"I can reinstate your position at Kensington Global Innovation,"
I revealed, knowing that my next words would capture her attention. "I own 25% of the shares there, and with a simple conversation, I can secure your dream job."
She paused, her curiosity getting the better of her.
"What are you saying? How do you know all this about me?"
"As I mentioned, my reach is far and wide. I can make all your dreams come true – money, power, wealth, everything you desire."
My voice was persuasive and alluring.
I could see the spark of interest in her eyes, her mind filled with possibilities.
Rising from my seat, I handed her my contact information.
"If you change your mind, my office door at The Knightbridge Global Enterprises is always open. I'll be expecting you."
With those parting words, I left her to mull over my proposition, my thoughts already moving on to the next phase of my plan as I entered my car and drove off.
..................
Scarlet POV stood, my gaze fixed on him as he drove off in his car. My mind fell into silence. This was surely my chance, but he was a complete stranger. One part of me dared to confront him for stalking me and thinking he had a chance with me, all because of a one-night stand that I hated myself for having. The other part saw this as an opportunity to accomplish my dreams and attain what I couldn't. I wanted revenge for Aiden's betrayal. Our engagement was just weeks away, and now he was hooking up with my stepsister. I hated him. This was my chance, but why had he come here all of a sudden after proving not to care last night? And now he was offering me a marriage contract? I wanted more answers, but getting them wouldn't be easy. First, I needed to know his name and everything about him. "The Knightbridge Global Enterprises?" I whispered to myself. I hurriedly left the café and returned home, my legs swiftly carrying me to my room. With a quick lock of the door
Sebastian POVMy gaze caught her going through the letter...I approached her, snatching the letter from her grip.I could sense she was stunned.She seemed the curious type, but this was a close call; I wouldn't want her to find out about my underground dealings.The packages were arriving today, and Nikolai Petrov had informed me.I had to be present to ensure safe transport.Those men may prove greedy and cheat, but surely, they won't take the risk of messing with me.I sat on the chair, my gaze fixed on her."So, have you signed the contract?" I asked.Her stammering was enough to show she hadn't yet."I haven't signed it. I—I need a pe
"Wait..." Nikolai uttered, silencing my footsteps.What does he want this time? I hope he's not planning on doing anything foolish now, is he?If he thinks he can outsmart me, it would surely be a mistake on his part.I turned my gaze to him. "What, Nikolai?" I asked."As I said, the goods were delivered safely thanks to me, but there were some errors that almost occurred. Don't worry, I took care of it already.""What errors?""Why don't you follow me, Mr. Hawthorne? I will show you."A second thought I would think of was that, but what could be the sudden issue?I nodded, following Nikolai, ready for any sudden change from him, for I trusted him not, and if I were to trust either, it wouldn't be a mafia lord like him.A man who also understands tactics and logic, just like me.
Scarlet POVAfter I had left his office, his driver dropped me off at my house, claiming it was his boss's order. Weird, but alright.I got out of the vehicle, my legs slowly approaching the door with a creak. I opened it slowly. My gaze caught sight of Mom, Dad, and Evelyn seated, just like they were expecting my arrival. I chose to ignore them, walking up to my room, only to be drawn back by his call."I have some announcements to make, Scarlet..." My Dad said.What else does he want to say this time, and why wait for my arrival to do so? Curious, I approached him, my eyes fixed as I sat on the couch."I have come to a conclusion about who should attain ownership of the restaurant..." he said.My Dad owned a popular restaurant. He and Mom had managed to take care of it. Back when I was young, Mom always told me I would be the next to take it to great heights. I guess the time was finally here.Though I wanted to work at the Kensington Global Innovation as the Chief Technology Officer
Three weeks After. "You're mine... There's no escaping from that," he uttered, tightening his grip on me. His scent reeked of alcohol; precisely, he was drunk. His eyes darkened with desire as he shoved me onto the bed, pinning me down. I tried resisting, but it was of no use; his brute strength was too much for me to resist. He callously took what he wanted, leaving my body aching as he fell to the other side of the bed, asleep. It had only been three weeks since we had traveled, following his plan not to draw too much attention. But these three weeks had been a hard time for me; I was just his tool, a tool of desire meant to entice him, nothing else. Still, the truth lies; I knew what I was getting myself into when I signed the contract. I had it all, so why? Why do I feel like I've just been used? I mean, this was a gain-gain for both of us. He had managed to secure a job for me at Kensington Global Innovation within a blink during the weeks—a job I had been pushing throug
As his voice faded, I left the wall, retreating back to the restaurant. My eyes fluttered, hoping he didn't see me. Mistakenly bumping into someone, I was stunned. With a simple apology, I stood at the restaurant front, gently awaiting his return from his call. After a few minutes, my eyes caught his approaching figure as I stood up, dusting my clothes. The closer he got, the more uneasy I felt, his last sentence echoing in my mind. "What are you doing out here?" he asked. "Just wanted some air. Can we go back to the mansion? I need to rest," I uttered. He hesitated before giving a nod. Alexander Knightbridge walked out after him, ending some discussions with Sebastian. As he then approached me, his presence made my legs instinctively step back slowly. "Can't wait to have you at my office tomorrow, hmmm, Mrs..." "Scarlet," I uttered sharply. He gave a slight chuckle, extending his hand for a handshake. My thoughts paused before I stretched back my hand, shaking his. His soft gr
I checked out the file's details and found that he had been selected by his party to lead the project if given. My mind was filled with confusion and anger – I didn't want anything to do with him after he betrayed me. I wanted him to pay for what he had done.I remembered Alexander's words about being in charge of supervising the project and ensuring its success. I decided to use this power to make Aiden's life a living hell while secretly ensuring the project's success for Kensington Global Innovation. With a sly smile, I began planning my strategy.I would set impossible deadlines, assign the most challenging tasks to Aiden's team, and constantly scrutinize their work. I would make sure they felt the pressure of my presence at every turn.I pushed the other parties' files aside without a second glance. I did some research on Aiden's party using the laptop on my desk, gathering every piece of information I needed. After a while, I sighed and leaned back in my chair, taking a break.
Alexander’s POVThe office grew silent, the night’s emptiness echoing around me as I slowly stood up from my desk. I left and entered my car, driving home. But what was the rush? Who was I expecting, anyway?I slowly opened my door, entering my mansion as I sat down, placing a bottle of whiskey in front of me. It was all about getting drunk now.I wanted it all—the power, the money, the influence—but what did I get? Sebastian had it all.I hated him. He had everything I desired, and now, only to find out he’s married? How could his life be so perfect while mine drowns in misery? And what did I have? Eva?She was just a mere stepping stone I saw for receiving her father’s help. I needed her to further my growth, but she proved useless in recent times and now she speaks of love? Really? Love?I cradled my hands, recalling her warm touch... Scarlet. Oh, my. Her eyes seemed to draw me close. I was quite shocked to learn that Sebastian had married. I mean, he had lived a lonely life and alw
I led Sebastian's mother outside the church, and as we approached my car, I noticed Kaiden awaiting my presence. His eyes were fixed on Sebastian's mother, trying to guess who she was."She will be coming with us, Kaiden," I uttered."Wait, back to the mansion?" Kaiden asked, seemingly surprised."Where else would it be?" I said with a furrowed brow, prompting him to give a nod.I helped Sebastian's mother into the back seat before joining her. Kaiden started the car engine and began driving away from the church. The sun had already set. Upon arriving back at the mansion in the late night, I helped Sebastian's mother out and noticed Kaiden's gaze still fixed on her."What are you still waiting for?" I questioned, snapping him out of his trance-like state. "Oh, won't you be going out again, ma'am?"Honestly, what was wrong with him? After a long stressful day, why would I think of going out again? And anyway, I had made sure to attend to all my plans I had set for today."No, Kaiden, y
What was she doing here?"Mam, let's go…" Kaiden snapped. "I have to check on something first." I said, leaving no further response to him as I made my way through the streets, eventually entering the building. With my eyes slowly scanning each side, I searched for Sebastian's mother. Then I caught her seated in the front seat, her hands cradled together. As I approached her, I noticed her shut eyes."Please God, I know I don't deserve a second chance, but please, just please let him see me as his mother. Let him look at me once again with love pouring out of his eyes. All I ask is just for a second chance, a second chance to correct all my wrong doings and make things right." She kept mumbling, her tears flowing out with a cracked sobber tone."Why are you here, Mam? Why did you have to leave in such haste?" Kaiden's words came in a whisper, but those whispers seemed to cause Sebastian's mother's eyes to spring open slowly as they landed on me."Scarlet?" She uttered, her very expres
Scarlet's POVAfter the detective left, I gently stood up and made my way out, my eyes landing on Kaiden standing outside, awaiting my presence."Are you set to go, ma'am?" he questioned."Yes, Kaiden, let's go," I said, entering the passenger seat as he entered the front seat.I felt less bothered by his presence; I could let things slide for now. I had my aims and plans to see through."Where are we going now, ma'am?" Kaiden's voice came through.Since everything was set and my plan to uncover Evelyn's intentions was underway, my only thought was visiting my mom."Take us to the city mental asylum, Kaiden," I said."Sorry, ma'am, mental asylum?" he asked."Are you questioning my words? That's the next direction we're heading to. If you have a problem with it, I would surely love to go there myself without you bugging at my side," I said."Alright, ma'am, I will drive now," he said, starting the car engine and driving on, leaving the restaurant behind. Not long after, we arrived at t
The evening hours found me seated, checking through some documents placed on my desk. My attention was grasped by a call later; checking it out, it was Alexander.What could he be calling about?I picked up the call."Are you free tonight, Sebastian?" Alexander uttered."Why?""Just that I missed a friend and wanted to spend some time with him. How about dinner tonight at the restaurant near your office?""You mean the Oakwood Grill restaurant?" I questioned."Yeah, Sebastian."Really, what could it be that he had called and was now asking for a meetup? Friends? I wouldn't say so. I only saw him as a business partner, and he had proved to me how he handles the business well, which impressed me. So, I was simply only impressed by his passion and talent, and I lent a little help. But I guess he took it wrong.I don't have friends; I don't need any. Workers, maybe. Business partners, maybe. But friends? Not really happening.But it doesn't seem like a bad idea to catch up for dinner. And
I needed answers to all my questions, especially why he was with her.My fingers quickly dialed Rafe's number, calling him up. The call persisted, ringing for a few seconds before it was finally picked up."What could be the reason for receiving a call from you, Mr. Hawthorne?" Rafe's voice came through. "Do you need me to find someone for you again, or get some details?""Where are you now, Rafe?" I questioned, going straight to the reason why I had called."What do you mean, Mr. Hawthorne?""A question isn't answered with another, Rafe. Just tell me where you are now.""And why do you wish to know, Mr. Hawthorne? My whereabouts should be the least of your concern, but if you must know, then I strolled out a bit.""Strolled out?" I scoffed."Tell me, Rafe. Why were you with Scarlet today at the restaurant?" I questioned, noticing the silence that echoed after, as I could grasp a slow sigh through the call."It seems the hunter has also been hunted now. Were you spying on me, Mr. Hawt
Sebastian's POV "I am not selling this land for such an amount. You either agree to my price or just leave. I have many other things to attend to," the man uttered.I couldn't help but let out a slight chuckle at his words. I had returned to work today; my wounds weren't fully healed, which was evident, but my resting time had seemed to run its course, and it was high time I got things done, taking my business to the next level.Now, here I found myself discussing with this greedy fool. The project had to begin tomorrow, no matter what, and the land deal had to be finalized today for that to happen. But it seemed that wouldn't be happening anytime soon if I didn't show him his place."Mr. Ambrose, or what was it again?" I asked."Ambrose," he responded as I walked closer to him, placing my hand on his shoulder with a firm yet gentle touch."Whatever. I don't care. I just want you to know that the papers shall be brought to you this evening, and I hope you don't disappoint. Sign them
As we clashed out on a long drive, I had told Kaiden to just keep driving around for a few minutes as I took in the air that came through the half-opened window. Maybe the peace and quiet were all I needed for just a moment. To let things go for just a few seconds and feel my life back once more.However, my thoughts soon disrupted my quiet moment, reminding me of the meeting I had set up with the private detective. I needed him to help me get details about Evenlyn's activities and keep track of her movements. With the evening hours approaching, I knew I should be returning to the company. However, I had already attended to some of the work on my desk, so I deserved a moment to rest. I could only hope they would understand my absence as I had some important matters to attend to, like finding out the truth about what happened to my mother and if Evenlyn was truly involved."Take us back to the restaurant, Kaiden," I uttered."The restaurant?" he questioned."Yes, Kaiden, the same resta
Checking his contact details, I booked a meeting with him timed for the evening hours at a nearby restaurant, placing down my phone and retracting my gaze from it. I returned my focus to the workload that awaited my early morning, checking through each research made and signing some documents. As the afternoon hours met me in my exhausted state, I gently stood up from the desk, hoping to receive some fresh air.I should be ready for such busy days since the project was now back on track and the project deadline to launch was getting nearer, so things had to be done in a hastened act while ensuring no errors occurred in the process."Mam, we are going to get lunch. You wanna come?" Emily uttered, walking with some of the other work colleagues.I guessed such socializing wouldn't be bad, even just for some moments. I couldn't deny one fact that stood glaring at me all this while—the truth that stood still of how long it had been since I had such company with people. I hadn't been in con
"Look who's having fun in the shower while I'm drowning in misery," I whispered, my gaze flickering up and down as I tried to stand up from the bed, only to miss a step and almost crumble to the ground. A steady hand stabilized me. It was Sebastian, his eyes fixed on me.Releasing myself from his grasp, I steadied my feet and stood. "I didn't ask for your help, did I?" I said, my hands softly pointed at him as I stepped closer."Kaiden told me you were out drinking after work. Why did you have to drink so much, knowing your health?" he asked."My health? Since when did you start caring about my health? Oh, yeah, if anything happens to me, it would affect your reputation, right? Because I am your wife to the world. The same old speech day by day. I'm sick of it." My presence drew closer, my breath almost mingling with his."You're drunk, Scarlet. You need to rest," he uttered, retreating from my side as he made his way toward the bed."I don't need you to tell me what to do. I decide w