Ethan’s Point of view:As we wrapped up discussing the fake engagement plan, the conversation shifted to lighter topics.Cameron asked Sarah, "So, what do you do?"Sarah hesitated before responding."I'm not currently working," she said."I'm passionate about art and colors, though," she added.I noticed Cameron's curious expression.Before he could ask another question, Sarah brought up a practical concern."Actually, Ethan, I wanted to discuss the clothing budget," Sarah said."As per our contract," she clarified."I need to update my wardrobe to fit in with your lifestyle," Sarah explained.Cameron jumped in."I can take you shopping," Cameron offered.I raised an eyebrow."Why?" I asked Cameron.Cameron shrugged."I know style and what looks good on a woman," Cameron claimed.“I know my way around a woman’s body,” He teased"Plus, it'll be fun," Cameron added.Sarah smiled."That would be great, thanks," Sarah said.Cameron grinned."Consider it a prep session for meeting Grand
Sarah’s Point of view:I stood frozen, tears still welling up in my eyes. Ethan's protective stance and firm tone had diffused the tense situation. Claire's venomous words still echoed in my mind."Sarah, you whore, I'll make you regret humiliating me!"I shuddered at the malice in her voice.Ethan's arm wrapped around me, pulling me close."Are you okay?" he asked softly.I nodded, still shaken."Yes," I whispered.Ethan's eyes scanned my face."I'm sorry about that," he said."You didn't deserve that."I took a deep breath."It's not your fault," I replied."Claire's always been... possessive, even over what isn’t hers."Ethan's expression darkened."Ex-husband?" he guessed.I nodded."Alex."Ethan's grip on me tightened."You're safe now," he whispered."I won't let anyone hurt you."The boutique had cleared out, leaving us alone.The staffs were staying out of our way.Ethan guided me to a nearby sofa."Sit," he said gently."I'll get you some water."As Ethan walked away, I not
Sarah’s Point of view:We drove back to Ethan's mansion, the evening's events still replaying in my mind.As we arrived, Ethan got out, opening my door."Let me get those," he said, gathering my bags.I smiled, grateful.He carried my bags upstairs, following me to my room."Are you okay?" he asked, setting the bags down.His eyes scanned my face, concern etched on his."Yes," I replied.Ethan's gaze lingered."If you're sure..." he trailed off."I'm just exhausted," I admitted.Ethan nodded."Understandable," His hand reached out, gently brushing a strand of hair behind my ear.Our eyes connected.I blushed and looked at my feet."Get some rest," he said."I'll see you tomorrow," I replied.Ethan's face softened into a warm smile."Looking forward to it," he whispered.With one last glance, Ethan turned to leave."Thank you," I called out.He turned back."For?" he asked."For everything," I replied.Ethan's smile lit up."Anytime," he said.And with that, he disappeared into t
Sarah’s Point of view:After breakfast, I offered to clean up after us."Since you did the cooking, it's only fair I clean up after," I said.Ethan smiled."Okay," he replied. "I'm going to have a bath."He pushed back his chair and stood up."I'll see you afterwards," he added.With that, he left the kitchen, leaving me to tackle the dishes.I began loading the dishwasher, lost in thought.The morning had been surprisingly enjoyable even with the restless night I had.Ethan's unexpected cooking skills had put me at ease.After finishing the dishes, I wandered through the house, deep in thought.My feet carried me to the library, a room I hadn't explored yet.I pushed open the door and stepped inside.The musty scent of old books enveloped me.I walked over to the expansive bookshelves, running my fingers over the spines.Thumbing through the titles displayed, I discovered classics, bestsellers, and rare editions.I picked a fantasy book from the bestsellers - "A Court of Thorns an
Ethan’s Point of view: As I walked out of the theater room, I couldn't shake off the tension between Sarah and me. That almost-kiss had left me reeling. I had wanted to kiss her, to see if the spark between us was real. But duty called, in the form of an urgent business call. I took a deep breath, composing myself. My assistant's voice on the phone brought me back to reality. "Ethan, we have a situation with the Smith account." I listened intently, my mind shifting gears. After the call, I headed to the office. My thoughts drifted back to Sarah. She was getting under my skin. I couldn't deny the attraction. But our agreement was clear: no strings attached. Why was I suddenly craving more? I pushed the thoughts aside. Focus on work. As I walked into the office, I was greeted by the familiar hum of activity. Our logistics company, Grey Empire Shipping, was a well-oiled machine. But today, a critical issue needed my attention. "Ethan, we have a sit
Sarah’s Point of view:As I walked into the kitchen, I was greeted by Ember's bright smile."Hi!" Ember exclaimed, opening her arms for a hug.I hugged her back, feeling a warmth that only Ember's presence could bring.James was busy cooking, while Ethan sat at the table, looking sleek in his business attire."Morning," Ethan said, his eyes locking onto mine.I smiled, feeling a flutter in my chest."Morning," I replied.Ember chattered excitedly as she helped James with breakfast.Ethan watched me, his gaze intense."You look beautiful today," he whispered.My cheeks flushed."Thanks," I said, trying to sound casual.As James left after cooking, Ethan, Ember, and I sat down to eat together.Ethan took a bite, then turned to me."I told Grandpa about you," he said."I told him you're my girlfriend."Ember's eyes sparkled."I knew you guys had something going on!" she exclaimed."Ethan can't take a 'friend' on the jet to Italy," she teased.She said friend with air quotes.I blushe
Ethan’s Point of View: As I held Sarah close, feeling her tremble in my arms, my heart swelled with concern. What had happened to her? Who had caused those tears? I gently guided her into the car, careful not to jar her. Ben's curious gaze met mine in the rearview mirror, but I shook my head. Not now. Sarah needed me. I settled beside her, cradling her in my arms. Her tears soaked through my shirt, but I didn't care. Her face buried in my chest, and her body relaxed, trusting me. As she slept, I stroked her hair, trying to calm my own racing thoughts. What had triggered this breakdown? How did she get here? Why did she leave the house? Was it Emily's condition? Or something more? I glanced at Ben. "Home, please," I said softly. Ben nodded, his eyes never leaving the road. The drive was quiet, except for Sarah's occasional sniffle. I held her close, whispering reassurances. "I've got you, Sarah. You're safe now." As we pulled up to the mans
Sarah’s Point of view:I narrated what went down that afternoon."That's why you found me crying on the street," I finished.My eyes welled up again, but I fought back the tears."I feel so trapped, Ethan," I confessed.The weight of my secrets, my past, was crushing me."I've been trying to escape for so long, but it's always there."Alex's presence lingered, a constant reminder."I'm tired of being scared," I whispered.Tired of looking over my shoulder.Tired of living in fear.Ethan's grip on my hand tightened.His eyes burned with determination."You're not alone, Sarah," he promised.His voice was my anchor.My refuge."I'm here," he whispered.And for the first time in a long time.I felt a glimmer of hope."I need to tell you about Alex," I said, my voice barely above a whisper.Ethan's expression turned attentive, his eyes locked onto mine."I've kept it inside for so long," I continued.The words trembled on my lips."But I want you to know."I took a deep breath."Alex..
Sarah’s Point of view:The next morning, I woke to a gentle knock on my room door."Who is it?" I called out."It's Albert, miss. Breakfast is ready," came the reply."Okay, I'll be down in a bit," I responded.I quickly had a refreshing bath and freshened up, feeling invigorated. Then, I made my way down to the grand dining room.As I entered, I was greeted by the warm smiles of Vivienne, Kimberly, and Emberly, already seated at the table."Good morning, Sarah!" someone said.I took my seat beside Emberly, who poured me a steaming cup of coffee."Sleep well?" Vivienne asked, passing me a plate of fluffy pancakes."Yes, thank you. Your home is so peaceful," I replied.Kimberly nodded. "We love it here. There's always something to do, but it's also perfect for relaxation."Emberly handed me a basket of freshly baked pastries. "Try one of these, I made them myself."I looked around and saw no sign of Emerald.“Where’s Emerald?” I asked“She’s still sleeping, she’s not a morning pers
Sarah’s Point of view: A phone ringing woke me from my deep slumber. I groaned, rubbing my eyes. Who was it? It’s too early. I checked the bedside clock. It was 12 pm. I had slept the whole morning away. Last night’s celebration with Ethan had ended late, with me stumbling into bed. The phone kept ringing. I picked it up. "Hey, girl!" Emberly's cheerful voice greeted me. "Hey, Ember," I replied, still shaking off sleep. "Where are you?" she asked. "I’m at home," I replied. "Get this, mum, grandma, Emerald, and I are going on a girls’ trip, and they want you to come!" Ember exclaimed. "Let’s make it a Grey girls’ trip by adding the soon-to-be Mrs. Grey! Isn’t that exciting?" I sat up straight in bed, surprised. "You guys want me to come along?" "Yes, it’ll be fun! You can get to know the family better." I hesitated for a moment, thinking of what to say. I couldn’t say no to Ethan’s mum and grandma, could I? "Sarah, are you still there? What do you say?" Ember as
Sarah’s Point of view:Wednesday afternoon, and I floated through the door, feeling euphoric. The divorce hearing had been a nerve-wracking experience, but the outcome exceeded my hopes.Ethan's concerned eyes met mine in the living room. I rushed into his arms, embracing him tightly."Hey, how did it go?" he asked, his voice laced with worry.I pulled back, beaming. "It's over," I said, barely containing my grin.Ethan's expression transformed into a warm smile. "It went well?" he asked, his eyes crinkling.I nodded enthusiastically. He patted the couch for me to sit."Tell me," he said.I took a deep breath, reliving the day's events."This morning, I met Rachel at her office to go over last-minute details. She reassured me to stay calm and not worry, hinting she had a plan."We drove to the courthouse, where Rachel's confidence steadied my nerves.As we registered our names and waited, Alex and his lawyer arrived. Seeing Alex was a shock; his swagger and smug expression brought bac
Sarah’s Point of view:It's a gloomy day and I woke up to the sound of raindrops hitting my window. The stormy skies outside perfectly mirrored my somber mood. I didn't feel like getting out of bed, and the thought of facing the day ahead felt overwhelming.As I lay there, tears began to well up in my eyes. Today was my parents' death anniversary, a painful reminder of the loved ones I've lost. It's been three long years since I last heard their laughter, since I last played chess with my dad. The memories still feel like a fresh wound.Titan, my loyal companion, sensed my distress and jumped onto my bed, trying to get me to play with him. But I wasn't in the mood. His playful energy was a stark contrast to my sorrow, and I couldn't help but feel a pang of guilt for not being able to shake off my grief.As I gazed out the window, the rain seemed to intensify, echoing the turmoil within me. I felt lost and alone, missing the warmth and love of my parents. The pain of their absence stil
Ethan’s Point of view:As we stepped into the crisp night air, the stars twinkling above, I wrapped my arm around her, holding her close."Tired?" I asked, glancing down at her soft face.She nodded, and I could sense the evening's weight bearing down on her.The drive home passed in comfortable silence, our hands intertwined.The diamond on her finger sparkled in the night light, and she turned to me with shining eyes."I love the ring, Ethan. It's beautiful," she whispered.My heart swelled with emotion as I gazed at her. "I'm glad you like it," I replied, my voice barely above a whisper.I tightened my fingers around hers, the diamond shining brightly on her hand. "You look stunning with it on."Her chest fluttered, and her voice was barely audible. "Thank you, Ethan."I smiled, filled with admiration. "You were the real star of tonight. You got everyone to like you, even Grandpa was impressed."Her cheeks flushed, and she smiled up at me. "Thanks to you," she replied. "You prepar
Sarah’s Point of view:I met Grandpa Henry's gaze, his eyes piercing. "Your eyes, Sarah... they remind me of an old friend. Very green, just like his."I offered a polite smile. "Must be a coincidence, sir."Henry hummed, his expression thoughtful, before turning away.Ethan stood up, his movements fluid and silent. He raised his wine glass and knife, capturing everyone's attention."Can I have your attention, everyone?"The room fell silent, both our table and the guest table quieting to listen."Happy birthday to my grandfather," Ethan began, his voice filled with warmth. "Cheers to you, sir, for reaching this milestone age and for not leaving us. May you live longer."He smiled, his eyes shining with gratitude. "And thank you to everyone for coming to celebrate with us."Then, his gaze locked onto mine, and my heart skipped a beat."Thank you to my beautiful girlfriend, Sarah, for putting up with me and for coming to visit my family."Ethan's eyes burned with intensity, his voice
Sarah’s Point of view: Ethan guided me to the table, where two empty chairs awaited us, side by side. With gentlemanly charm, he pulled out a chair for me. "Thank you," I said, smiling. Ethan took his seat beside me, his hand brushing against mine. To my left sat Cameron, who flashed a warm smile. As soon as we settled, Albert rang a discreet bell, and the staff entered in unison, bearing the first course. "Dinner is served," Albert announced. The aroma of roasted vegetables and herbs wafted through the air, tantalizing my senses. Henry Grey, seated at the head of the table, smiled warmly. "Let's enjoy our meal together," he said, his voice welcoming. The room filled with the soft clinking of silverware and polite conversation. I glanced at Ethan, who gave my hand a reassuring squeeze under the table. I spied an old woman with gray hair in a tight bun seated at Henry’s right smiling at me. I smiled back politely and whispered at Ethan,”Who is she?
Sarah’s Point of view: I stood transfixed before the mirror, mesmerized by the reflection staring back at me. The stranger's fiery red hair and captivating features were unmistakably mine, yet utterly transformed. The navy blue gown hugged my curves in all the right places, its sculpted square neckline framing my face. The twisted waist detail accentuated my slender figure, while the dramatic long cape sleeves and subtle shoulder padding added an air of sophistication. A daring thigh slit added a touch of sass, balanced by the elegant maxi length. The invisible zip closure ensured a seamless silhouette. I paired it off with black strappy heeled sandals with diamanté chains. I looked like a goddess, radiating confidence and poise. "Stunning," Treyvon breathed, stepping back to admire his handiwork. Cianna nodded in agreement. "The dress was made for you." Brittany and Robin exchanged impressed glances, while Dylan smiled, satisfied with the wardrobe choice. "You guys t
Sarah’s Point of view:Today was Ethan’s grandpa's birthday, and I woke up with a splitting headache, courtesy of yesterday's wine tasting extravaganza. I groaned, feeling the familiar pangs of a hangover.As I sat up, flashes of yesterday flooded my mind – the wine, the laughter, and the kiss. My face heated up, and I couldn't deny the thrill that ran through me. Ethan's gentle touch, his soft lips... I had enjoyed it, no matter how much I wanted to pretend otherwise.But now, I needed to avoid him. Or at least, try to. Today was crucial for the contract, and we had to put on a united front. I flopped back onto the bed, dreading the thought of spending time with Ethan while his kiss still lingered on my mind.Just then, a knock on the door broke the silence."Hey Sarah, are you awake?" Ethan's voice called out.I hesitated before responding, "Yes, Ethan, come in."He walked in, and my heart skipped a beat. The memories came flooding back – his muscled arms, his gentle touch... I long