Everything happened so fast, Brynne could hardly keep up. Luke and his bodyguards accompanied her to her cabin to get her stuff. As she packed up, Daniella opened the door and walked in to check. Her eyes flew from Brynne to Luke and his bodyguards with confusion.“Hi! Didn’t you come in to see Brynne earlier? Are you’ll going somewhere?” she asked Luke.“Yes, Brynne is moving in with me.” Daniella’s mouth hung open at her admission as she gaped at Brynne, busy collecting her stuff.“Oh, I see. It’s good that she won’t have to stay here alone. I was worried about her.” Brynne seethed at Daniella’s fake concern. Daniella knew she would move in with Ted. Weren’t they dating for months now? Then why did she put up an act with her earlier?“No need. We’re dating and I’ll take care of my girlfriend. Thanks for your concern.” He flashed Daniella a smile as he helped Brynne with the luggage. Daniella’s mouth hung open as she digested the information.“Oh! Are you his girlfriend, Brynne? You
Brynne’s heart thumped wildly as she finally realized what she had agreed to. “You can’t force yourself on me, Luke.” Her breath hitched when his lips grazed her neck upwards to her ear.“I don’t need to use force. That’s not my style. I’m sure you know that by now! One touch and I’ll have you begging for more.” A tremor went up her spine, not out of fear but from need. The feather light touch of his lips was enough to arouse her. His arm went around her waist and he pulled her flush against his warm chest, holding her gaze all the time.“It seems you’ve mastered the art of seduction. Do you hook up with every female you see? Just like the one you were talking to earlier.” He stared at her for a minute, and then flashed her a boyish grin.“You have no reason to feel jealous. I’m only yours for the next six days.” Brynne rolled her eyes, but a warm flush stained her cheeks. She knew he was trying to seduce her to give in.“I’m not your wife to feel jealous. You can go to hell!” He chuc
Luke’s words made her head swim, her heart pound, and her body burned with need. She didn’t know if it was the alcohol in her system or the charm that made her throw caution to the wind and surrender to him. There was no doubt he had a way with words that could make even a shrew melt and beg for a good f*ck.At that moment, his notorious reputation, and his playboy ways, didn’t matter to Brynne. She wanted him. She wanted to replay the magic of last night, this time in her senses. Maybe her body too was addicted to him, just as he was to her. “Only a kiss,” Brynne conditioned. In response, his eyes sparkled in defiance, but Brynne reached out without a thought, cupping his jaw and pulling his head down to her level. It was just the initiative he needed her to make to fulfill the promise. Now the promise didn’t hold true anymore. She had already made the first move and asked for a kiss, irrespective of how he made it happen. Now, he didn’t need to force himself on her. The moment she
“Ignore Audrey’s jabs. She’s a spoiled brat with no filter to her mouth.” Luke smiled at her as he watched the confusion in her eyes. He knew Audrey’s words had affected her. What would he do if she changed her mind? No, he had to convince her. “What did she mean? Do you have a history with her?” She still sat there sulking while Luke lost his patience. “We just grew up together. Our grandfathers are best friends.” Brynne understood he was downplaying the reality. There was more to the picture than met the eye. “Anyway, forget Aubrey, and let’s pick up where we left off.” “Not tonight. I want to catch up on some sleep right now. I can use the spare bedroom or go back to my cabin.” He glared at her for a second before scooping her up in his arms and striding towards his bedroom.“I’ll punish you if you do that, Brynne. Don’t forget you made a deal with me. You’re stuck to me for the next six days.” She struggled to get free. “Will you force me?” He nodded, amusement sparkling in hi
He slid her clothes slowly off her body, letting it slip and pool on the floor. “Holy f*ck, Brynne! You look more beautiful every time I see you.” Brynne melted at his words, remembering he had called her beautiful last night when he first saw her. It was a hazy recollection, but she somehow felt he was reliving the moments they had shared last night. He kissed her again, slowly, frantically until he was lying on top of her, his erection pressed against her s*x. He felt so good that Brynne writhed under him, needing more. His hands explored her body, knowing exactly where to touch her. He released her mouth and locked his eyes with hers, while his hand inched to her breasts. Leaning down, he kissed each of them in reverence.“Mmm, you’re f*cking delicious!” He licked his lips, swirling his tongue while kneading the other. Brynne arched her body, fishing her hands into his hair while her head swam with euphoria. She had a hazy memory of feeling something similar last night. So they w
Brynne hated returning to Luke’s empty suite, but she had no choice. Staying there was a better option than going back to the cabin and facing Daniella and Adam again. It was strange that Adam had not called her since last night. Nor did Daniella. It hurt her tremendously, as she had always considered them her own. For the last two years, she tried her best to help and bond with them. But it seemed it was all one-sided. They didn’t consider her a friend. She wandered aimlessly, watching the ship gear up for the three-night gala New Year’s party starting the next evening. While everyone would enjoy themselves with their friends and loved ones, Brynne would have no one to share it with. Luke had clearly excused himself for the next two days. Or was it forever? Did he lose interest in her after getting what he wanted from her? Was this an excuse to dismiss her? Maybe he couldn’t directly ask her to get out after having his way with her. She somehow had the feeling he wouldn’t return.De
Luke stormed to Deck 17 to meet his grandpa, Benson Sylvester.Yes, he was the one and only Lucien Sylvester, the most notorious man in the city. His bad reputation had earned him the nickname of a devil. As such, all the bi*ches flocked to him like bees to honey. But he didn’t need them at the ripe age of thirty-two. He needed a genuine woman, a woman who could handle his children and his reputation. He needed someone selfless who wouldn’t choose him for his wealth. Such a woman was impossible to find. He had already given up hope when his grandpa suggested Brynne’s name. Having worked with her for two years, Benson Sylvester had recognized Brynne’s nature but Lucien hadn’t believed him.He had been through shit when his wife, Celine Davidson, left him for an older man with more wealth and power. He was just twenty-two and burdened with a son from his love-less wedding. If only his grandpa had listened to his pleas before plunging in to help his childhood best friend, Chris Davidson
Brynne waited all morning for Luke, but it seemed he had forgotten her existence. There was chaos all around, and she opened the door and walked out to the deck. To her immense surprise, the ship was heading towards Port Canaveral, Florida. Her heart skipped a beat at the prospect of exploring something different for a change. She rushed inside, picked up the cruise itinerary, and found out the details. The ship would remain docked until 10 pm and they were free to explore Orlando until then. In ten minutes, she was ready. She locked the room and inched toward the elevator. Luke hadn’t even called her and she knew he might still be with his grandpa and Aubrey. She shouldn’t have trusted him.All the passengers on board were queuing up on Deck 4 to alight from the ship after 2 days of being at sea. Brynne was eager too, but scanned the crowd for known faces. Thankfully, she didn’t recognize the crowd so far. Hoping she didn’t collide with Adam and Daniella, she listened to the instru
Brynne calmed her jumpy nerves as she considered his question. Her dream wedding would be in a place like the Royal Villa, far away on a secluded island. But that was an impossible dream, right? “What difference does it make? I’ll have a church wedding with you.” Their order arrived and Brynne sipped her café latte in peace. She could sense Luke’s restless gaze on her, but refused to meet his eye. “Still, I need to know.” He glared at her impatiently. Why couldn’t she answer a simple question?“When I marry for real, I’ll consider it. As of now, let’s have it your way.” She sat calmly while Luke felt his blood boil at the thought of someone else marrying her for real.“I want to know. So, tell me your thoughts on a perfect wedding. What will make you happy?” He watched her eyes widen as she focused on the red rose adorning their table. “A real wedding with the man I love on a deserted island is what I dream of. I’d love a wedding at a place like the Royal Villa! Maybe someday I’ll
Brynne lay in her room, wondering if Luke would seek her out tonight. After dinner, he received a conference call and disappeared into his study for hours. The children went to their wing and Brynne returned to her room, too. Ever since she had been trying to get some sleep but her heart jumped at every little noise echoing around. She had almost dozed off when she heard the main door open and Luke enter the eerily quiet suite. She could feel him hover outside her door for a few minutes before walking away to his bedroom. Brynne released the breath she was holding and closed her eyes finally. Maybe he wouldn’t touch her before signing the prenuptial. As if she would ever demand anything from him! The next morning, Brynne had just got ready for work when Luke came striding into her room. “What the hell! Can’t you knock? We aren’t married yet.” His eyes swept over her, taking in her work clothes. Without a word, he picked up the suitcase, yet to be unpacked, and walked out. Brynne
Lucien saw red the moment his eyes fell on Adam. He hadn’t believed his ears when Grant had updated him about Brynne’s association with her ex. “F*ck off, Carter!” he gritted out at his employee, determined to sack him now. Adam hoisted himself, shocked to see his boss in front of him. It was so sudden; he was at a loss for words. Luke watched him leave and kicked the door shut before facing a trembling Brynne. “What the hell is going on here, Brynne? How can you get back with him in my absence? Can’t you live without f*cking that as*hole?” He leaned over her menacingly while Brynne stepped back, shocked by his accusations. “You’re mistaken, Luke. All my friends were here to celebrate our engagement.” Luke scoffed instead of believing her. “I saw only Carter. He was here last night too with red roses for you. What was he doing here with red roses, Brynne?” He gripped her by the shoulders in a fit of rage Brynne gaped at him, now realizing why his Bentley was always parked opposit
Brynne hadn’t known she had been being watched since last evening. After Adam left, she was busy with the packing. The entire house had to be sealed for a year so that it wouldn’t be very dusty when she returned. It was a monumental task. When after an hour, she couldn’t complete, she gave up and declined Grant. Strangely, he didn’t argue. In the morning, when she emerged from her house, her glance fell on Luke’s Bentley parked opposite. Didn’t Grant leave last night? She was getting late for work and there was no time to speculate. Maybe she would find out in the evening. There was chaos in the office when she walked in. While everyone else gave her jealous looks, Julia came rushing to hug her. From the excited look on her face, Brynne knew what the stir was all about. Adam might have spilled the beans and announced her engagement to all at the office. “Brynne, congratulations, girl! I knew it.” Julia reached her and pulled her into a bear hug. Brynne laughed at her enthusiasm. Sh
Brynne shoved Luke away, not in the least intimidated by him. He needed her more than she did. She could sell her house, pay off her debts, and leave the country to start afresh. She didn’t need to go through this humiliation. “I’m not afraid of your threats, Luke. If you try anything with me, I’ll opt out of your deal. You can find someone else.” He watched her for a second, surprised by her counter-attack. He couldn’t believe she meant that. “You can’t do that. You need the money.” She scoffed and shook her head. “No, I don’t. I can sell this house and pay my debts. I don’t need to be your se* slave for it.” Luke frowned, feeling a little upset by her announcement. Was he the only one who needed her? He couldn’t accept that at all. It hurt his already inflated ego to think she didn’t need him the way he did. “And the job? I’m sure you’ll need that to survive.” “No, I’ll find many more like it.” She held his shocked gaze, a sense of victory spreading all over her. “What if you d
Brynne didn’t get a minute to gather her thoughts. Luke’s proposal was so sudden that he didn’t give her a minute to decide. The doorbell buzzed, and an attendant brought them dinner. “Come and join me for dinner.” Luke’s mood had suddenly improved as he pulled out a chair for her. Was it because she agreed to marry him? “Thank you.” She settled in her chair, still grappling with reality. What had she agreed to? Was she making a mistake? But there was no going back now. His offer was too good to resist. She needed that money badly. Or it would take her years to clear the debts. It was just a matter of a year, right? What harm would one year of contract marriage do to her? She had already lost her virginity to him willingly. “What’s wrong? Having second thoughts?” He gave her a suspicious look as he served himself. “I’m not giving you an option to back out, Brynne. The engagement will happen tomorrow and the wedding this weekend.” Brynne felt dizzy. Why was he rushing it? “Can’t we
Brynne stood on the open terrace to get some fresh air. She couldn’t understand Luke’s motive for asking her to stay over. Was it only to insult her? His jabs didn’t escape her attention. She was just trying to help. What made him so bitter against her? He wasn’t this way on the ship.She stared into the darkness ahead, watching the city light up like sparkling jewels on a necklace. Up above her, the stars twinkled and the balmy air enveloped her like a blanket. Were her parents up there watching over her? Did they see how lonely she was in this world?What was she doing with her life? She couldn’t recognize this Brynne anymore. Shouldn’t she be at her own house like every other employee in Sylvester’s? What was she doing at the boss’s house? How would she face the others at work? Surely they would come to know of it. Would anyone believe she had no hand in this? Would anyone believe she didn’t sleep with him this time?Brynne sighed and turned to go inside. Now that Leonardo was bett
Lucien followed Lucas to the children’s wing, with Brynne hot on his heels. He knew how much his children hated the women in his life. He had therefore stopped bringing them home long ago. Recently, Aubrey was the only one who refused to listen to logic and always arrived unannounced. The children hated her with a vengeance, and they had an ample reason behind it. Aubrey always misbehaved with them, calling them many names. He would have taught her a lesson if she weren’t his grandpa’s friend’s daughter.“Will Leo be okay, Dad? I’m so scared.” Lucien focused his attention on his son, feeling a little guilty for neglecting them lately. He had become too dependent on his grandpa, but not anymore. Once the court case settled down and he won their custody, he would make it up to them.“Don’t be scared, buddy. We’ll take care of Leo. I’m sure he’ll be better in no time.” He understood Lucas’s condition. The twins looked up at Leonardo as their guardian, parent, and idol. He was their ever
Brynne watched the car speed towards Central Park instead of the airport. Was this some kind of joke? Why would Luke want her to go to the iconic park with her luggage? She patiently waited to reach her destination before voicing her thoughts. The car reached 57th Street, and she frowned at the luxurious skyscrapers on Billionaires’ Row. Why was she here? Brynne couldn’t wait any longer. She turned to Grant, who was busy talking to the chauffeur. “Why am I here, Grant? I thought we were heading to the airport.” “I have no idea, Miss. I’m just following Mr. Sylvester’s instructions.” The car entered the enormous gates of an iconic skyscraper. Central Park TerracesBrynne’s head swam at the grandeur of the building. She felt totally out of place. Why was she here? Who lived in such a grand place? She didn’t want to think of the obvious, her heart panicking at the thought. “Grant, can I go home, please?” “No, Ms. Emerson. This is Mr. Sylvester’s home, and he wants you here.” It was