DAMIEN’S POVThe night was surprisingly warm, so I decided to take a quick dip before dinner. After a hectic day filled with back-to-back board meetings, I could feel a headache creeping in, and a swim seemed like the perfect way to clear my mind. As I slid into the pool, I felt the cold waves of the water washing the day’s stress away, and I enjoyed every stroke that I made, feeling lighter with every movement.I went deep into the water, submerging myself fully while I held my breath for about a minute, and suddenly, I saw a figure standing above me. I popped my head up to find Evans, my Intel man, looking down at me.Swimming to the edge of the pool, I brushed the beads of water off my face, my legs still dangling in the water.“What do you have for me, Evans?” I posed inquisitively.“A few of my colleagues said they spotted her in Haven City, but I’m yet to confirm that rumor,” he relayed.My face instantly went sour, “You know better than to dwell on rumors. Find out if she’s ac
KIERA’S POVI changed quickly, blow-drying my hair before applying some lip gloss and mascara. I threw on a casual mini-dress and headed to the dining hall. Gabriel and Damien were already waiting surrounded by a few house staff and all eyes fell on me the moment I walked in, causing my steps to falter.Gabriel had saved a seat for me, right between him and Damien and as I approached the table, simultaneously, they stood to pull out the chair for me. My heart did a backflip, as I noticed Gabriel’s curious gaze locking on Damien, who hastily retreated to his seat, feeling the pressure of his brother’s gaze.An uneasy smile formed on my face as I nodded in appreciation to Gabriel, settling into my chair.Once he returned to his seat, the staff started serving the dishes, and the room fell into an uncomfortable hush, broken only by the sound of clattering silverware and utensils.As I took a bite, I couldn't resist sneaking a look at Damien. Our eyes met, and he winked at me, and I smile
KIERA’S POVI woke up today with an unusual lighthearted feeling, almost giggly. I couldn’t pinpoint the reason, but maybe it was the events of yesterday still dancing in my mind.Just as I finished getting dressed, a knock at my door interrupted my thoughts. I went to answer it and found Gabriel standing with a package in his hand.“Can I come in?” He requested calmly.“Sure,” I responded, fiddling with my dress.“Please change into this, you’re coming with me to the office today,” he said handing the package to me.My brows suddenly scrunched, “Why? I have nothing to do there,” I responded.“As my fake fiancé or whatever, it’s important for you to be familiar with our companies and business operations,” he added.“Oh, I see,” I nodded slowly.Opening the package, I discovered an additional box tucked inside, and I peeled it open, only to find a phone in it.“You got me a phone?” I asked, my excitement hitting the roof.“I thought it would come in handy and keep you entertained. Plu
KIERA’S POVAs I followed Linda to the kitchen, I marveled at the space. It was too luxurious for an office—marble countertops, sleek stainless steel appliances, and an air filled with the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee. But the atmosphere felt tense, like a storm waiting to break.Linda glanced at me, a smug smirk playing on her lips.“You sure you can handle making coffee? It requires a level of skill I’m not sure you possess,” she said, sarcasm dripping from her voice.I forced a smile, choosing to ignore the jab, “I appreciate your concern, but I think I’ll manage.”Linda leaned closer, lowering her voice as if sharing a scandalous secret. “Just remember, this isn’t your playground. You’re stepping into a world of real professionals.”My jaw tightened, but I maintained my composure, “Funny, you’d think a ‘real professional’ would encourage teamwork rather than throwing shade.”Linda’s eyes narrowed, “You think you can just waltz in here because you’re Gabriel’s what? His pet?
ELISE’S POVI got back from shopping right on time for dinner.“Where’s my husband?” I asked, throwing a look at Joe.“He’s in the dining room ma’am,” Joe responded.Perfect! What better opportunity to bond with my husband than over some delicious food? I had so much I wanted to discuss with him.Miguel was already munching on his food when I entered the dining room, my shopping bags dangling on my arm.“Hey, babe,” I called out, trying to inject some warmth into my voice. “I had the most amazing day ever,” I said, attempting to spark a conversation, but silence wrapped us like a thick fog, and it stung even more when he didn’t look up.I dropped the shopping bags onto a nearby chair, the sound echoing like a gunshot in the stillness.“Take these to my room,” I instructed Hannah, one of the maids.“Are you really gonna ignore me?” I pressed, my pulse quickening. “I thought we could chat over dinner,” I said, slumping onto the seat beside him.“Not now, Elise,” he muttered, his voice l
GABRIEL’S POVThe flight lasted two hours, the hum of the engines a dull backdrop to the storm brewing in the cabin. Kiera had been uncharacteristically quiet, her glare fixed on the window, as if the world outside could offer her some refuge from whatever was nagging at her.I was sure it had to do with what she asked me earlier, but I wasn’t sorry for confronting Damien. I didn’t like the idea of him lurking around her and seeing her as his next meal. He does more harm than good to women.With the two of us alone, no guards, no distractions, I felt the weight of unspoken words between us.As the private jet touched down in Marion City, I could see the sprawling lights of the city twinkling like stars. We were greeted by a sleek black Porsche, and taken straight to Ibiza Hotel, just a stone throw from the beach. However fun was the last thing on my mind.Linda had made prior reservations, booking two rooms, Kiera’s directly opposite to mine.“Freshen up and meet me in my room. I need
KIERA’S POVThe venue of the meeting was a rooftop restaurant exclusively for people who have money pouring from their pockets. I would have much rather stayed back at the hotel, but Gabriel wouldn’t take no for an answer.While we waited for his business partners, we were served a bottle of Gout de Diamant champagne, but neither of us even reached for it.The last 48 hours had been a whirlwind, and I was barely trying to keep my head above water.Having that conversation with Gabriel yesterday lifted a bit of the weight that sat in my heart. I just wanted him to know that I appreciate all he had done for me, nothing more. I had already steeled myself not to be emotionally attached to them. Although I still feel a tad nervous around Gabriel, I will gradually overcome it, and see him as nothing but a friend.I've been so worried about my Papa, and I really wish I could go see him. That’s what I wanted to say to Gabriel yesterday, but he cut me off before I could get it out. I didn’t wa
ELISE’S POVI had just finished having lunch, and I casually strolled to the bedroom, trying to shake off the feeling of emptiness that lingered. It was becoming a habit for Miguel to skip not just dinner with me but lunch, too. For the last two days, he had chosen to sleep in another room, and I felt a growing sense of devastation creeping in.As I stepped into the room, I locked the door behind me and walked to the bed, feeling a wave of loneliness settling in like an unwanted guest.Listening to my body, my little button down there was restless, craving to get satisfied. I swept my dress off my body, laying bare on the bed, as I slightly arched my back, spreading my legs wide apart.Dipping a finger in my mouth, I snaked it down my belly, until it rested on my cl*t. I start rubbing my cl*t gently, taking in all the pleasure little by little, and a shaky breath stuttered across my lips. My body felt hot as I cupped my b**b with my other hand, catching my nipple between my index and