Thank you so much for choosing to read my book! The next update will be out on Wednesday, and I would absolutely love to hear your thoughts in the comments. Your support means the world to me, and if you would like to show some love, I’d be thrilled if you could drop a few of your precious gems."
JAYDEN’S POV 'I love you so much, Jay.' Flora’s soft, melodious voice floated into my sleep like a distant echo. It was a phrase she used to say every morning without fail, and I didn’t usually respond when she said this to me, but today… today, I felt elated. It seemed like something was different, and my heart was filled with warmth. “Wake up, wake up, wake up,” she continued with a gentle persistence. “Your bath is ready, and I’ve picked out your outfit. I promise you’ll love this color. It goes really well with your tie.” I groaned, rolling over in bed, refusing to open my eyes. I could almost see her, sitting beside me, her radiant smile brightening up the room. I had been exhausted after my trip last night, and the last thing I wanted was to get up early and head to work. But then, the blare of my alarm shattered the illusion. I flinched at the shrill sound, feeling a surge of annoyance. Why wasn’t Flora turning it off like she always did? I squeezed my eyes shut, stu
JAYDEN’S POV “Are you going to talk, or do you want me to escalate this?” I demanded, my gaze shifting sharply between the two women standing before me. My mother sighed, the sound exasperated, like she couldn’t believe I was making a fuss over something so trivial. “I did what I had to do to save us from that woman and the trouble she was bound to cause.” “What the hell did you do!” I roared, taking a menacing step forward. My sudden outburst sent a flash of panic across her face as she flinched, disbelief widening her eyes. It was probably the first time I had ever raised my voice at her, and the shock of it hung thick in the air. “Jayden, watch your tone!” she snapped back, her composure barely holding as her gaze turned icy and hard. “I’m disappointed in you. Where’s your backbone? You were supposed to be a businessman. Did you think the Kensingtons built this empire by indulging in pathetic sentiments?” “I don’t give a damn how Kensington got here!” I shouted, my voice
FLORA’S POV I had searched the entire house for my sketchbook, but it seemed to have disappeared into thin air. Panic had slowly settled in my chest. I couldn’t afford to lose it—not now when Vicky was giving me a rare opportunity to showcase my talent. Over the years, sketching had been my solace, something I poured my heart into during those long, quiet hours at the Kensington estate, it was a quiet rebellion against a world that kept telling me to stay small. It was the one thing that belonged to me. I remembered once, early in my marriage, when I had dared to show Jayden one of my sketches. I had been so eager to impress him, so hopeful. I had poured hours into that piece, excitedly detailing every seam and curve of the design, ready to show him that I was talented and capable of joining the family’s business. But he hadn’t even glanced at it for more than a few seconds before dismissing it like a used tissue and told me I was wasting my time on irrelevant things. “Who would wear
FLORA’S POV I took a step back, my heart pounding so hard it felt like it would leap right out of my chest. I needed to think, and I needed to think fast. There had to be a way out of this mess—a way that didn’t involve being manhandled out of here by Jayden’s goons. An idea hit me like a lightning bolt. It was risky, but if I pulled it off, it just might work. As one of the bodyguards closed the distance between us, I did the most unexpected thing—I laughed. Loud and clear. The sound echoed through the office, making everyone freeze in confusion. The guards stopped, their expressions a comical mix of shock and suspicion. Even Jayden blinked at me like I had suddenly sprouted a second head. I pulled out my phone from my pocket and tapped on it frantically while still laughing. “What’s so funny?” he demanded, his voice a mixture of irritation and bewilderment. “Oh, Jay,” I said, shaking my head like I was talking to a misbehaving child. I held up my phone for them to see. “I kn
ALEX’S POV What the fuck is wrong with me? It’s been a week, and I still can’t get the image of Flora kneeling in my office out of my head. I keep telling myself to forget about it, that it was just an embarrassing misunderstanding. But it’s like my brain didn’t get the memo. Her wide, uncertain eyes are seared into my thoughts, resurfacing at the most inconvenient times—during meetings, phone calls, and even in the middle of the night when I should be dead asleep. I’ve tried everything. I asked David to line up more Subs, hoping to distract myself. He delivered, of course—each girl more stunning than the last, all eager to please. But no matter who walked through my door, none of them felt right. And it’s not like I even know what “right” is supposed to feel like anymore. All I know is that none of them were her. So, I did the only thing I could think of: I avoided her. I kept a careful distance at the office and stayed away from her department. Out of sight, out of mind, right? W
FLORA’S POV “You okay?” His voice was a low rumble, laced with a roughness that sent a shiver straight down my spine. I swallowed hard, forcing myself not to react to the heat emanating from him. His fingers tightened just slightly on my hips; a gentle but possessive touch that made every nerve in my body stand at attention. Then, ever so slowly, he turned me to face him. “I—I’m fine,” I stammered, trying to sound coherent. But it was hard to think straight when I was plastered against his bare, sculpted chest, drenched to the bone, and struggling not to combust on the spot. “You sure?” His eyes roamed over me, lingering on my face, my lips—my entire trembling body. Instead of stepping back, he leaned closer, his breath warm against the side of my neck. “You’re shaking.” Of course, I was shaking. How could I not be shaking? My brain screamed at me to move—to put some distance between us—but my body refused to cooperate. It was like my entire being was locked in a battle: the s
FLORA'S POV He didn’t stop until we were inside what had to be his bedroom. The space was massive, filled with muted colors and an air of quiet sophistication. He gently lowered me onto the edge of his ridiculously large bed, making sure I was steady before stepping back. “We’ll get you out of those wet clothes, get you warmed up, and then I’ll check your foot,” he said, his tone casual. Before I could process his words, he turned and disappeared into the adjoining walk-in closet. I blinked, still trying to catch up with what had just happened. He came back a moment later, dressed in a pair of loose navy shorts and a white tank top that clung to his broad chest in a way that did nothing to ease my frazzled nerves. He tossed me a shirt—one of his shirts. My fingers clenched around the soft fabric as I stared up at him, completely bewildered. “What...what am I supposed to do with this?” He arched a brow. “Wear it. Unless you would prefer to stay in those drenched clothes?” I sta
FLORA’S POV My heart felt like it was about to explode. The rapid, frantic beat was deafening, making my every breath sound louder in the thick, electric silence between us. "I—I didn’t mean to intrude. I just..." I stammered, my gaze darting around, trying to find anything—anything—to focus on other than the dangerous look in Alex’s eyes. But he didn’t seem remotely fazed by my weak attempt at an explanation. He took a step inside, closing the door behind him softly, sealing us inside together. The sound of the latch clicking felt like the toll of a bell—a point of no return. “No need to explain,” he murmured, his gaze raking over me like a physical touch. I felt pinned under it, every inch of my skin burning under his scrutiny. “But now that you’re here, Miss Roberts… perhaps you would like a proper lesson.” Heat, potent and overwhelming, assailed me as he took another step forward, closing the gap between us until his scent—clean, musky, with a hint of something dark and
FLORA’S POV Alex planted soft kisses on my forehead after another mind-blowing lovemaking session. I was thoroughly and completely spent, my body was a blissful heap, and I loved every second of it. Now, he held me in his arms, cuddling me. I couldn’t even tell how long we had been here, lost in each other. “Do you feel good, flower?” Alex murmured, his voice tender as he brushed his lips against mine. I nodded, as a lazy smile tugged at my lips. “I feel great.” “It’s time to take proper care of you,” he whispered into my ear before slipping out of me and getting out of bed. “Come,” he said, extending his hand. I placed my hand in his, and he pulled me upright before scooping me into his arms. My legs instinctively wrapped around his waist, anchoring me to him. I rested my head on his shoulder, letting out a contented sigh. Tonight had been intense, and my body was exhausted in the best way possible. Alex seemed to understand everything I was feeling without me needing to say a w
FLORA’S POV “Can you untie my hands now?” I asked as Alex pulled away from the kiss, leaving my lips tingling with the aftermath. “Your hands stay tied,” he murmured. Then, he spread my thighs. He withdrew the vibrator, the slick sensation sending a shiver coursing through me. His finger trailed up the sensitive line of my core, and a jolt of pleasure rippled through me, scattering like sparks into every nerve. I slumped forward, resting my forehead on his shoulder, my heart pounding. "You’re drenched,” he whispered into my ear, his breath hot against my skin. The deep timbre of his voice felt like a caress all its own. A moment later, his finger plunged into me, coaxing a gasp from my lips. “You want me, don’t you?” His finger slid out, only to return with an intensity that made my legs tremble. “Answer me, baby girl,” he demanded, his voice tinged with a rough edge that sent a thrill through me. “Yes, I want you,” I panted against his shoulder. He groaned in satisfaction
FLORA’S POV I stared at him, unsure of what to say. His words didn’t fully register; I was too busy trying not to gawk at the way his hands moved to unbuckle his belt. Slow. Deliberate. Dangerous. “Say that again,” he urged, his voice was as smooth as melted chocolate. “Say what again?” I blinked confused while my pulse thundered like a war drum. He leaned in slightly, amber-gold eyes fixed on me with the intensity of a predator closing in on its prey. “Look me in the eyes and tell me you want to end this.” The words struck like a bolt of lightning. I froze and my throat suddenly went dry. Oh, right. That. My declaration of independence from this dangerously addictive man. The words had rolled off my tongue in a fit of anger earlier, but now? Standing there with nothing but a handful of fabric and his relentless gaze, I wasn’t so sure anymore. I said nothing, unable to muster a coherent response. “That’s what I thought,” he rumbled. The belt came off with a soft, menacing his
FLORA’S POV I knew I was deluding myself the moment I bolted from the party, thinking I could outpace Alex and avoid him altogether. But of course, Alex was Alex, he didn’t let things go. His footsteps followed me down the stairs, even as I slipped off my heels and made a desperate attempt to disappear into the night. Jayden’s words shouldn't matter, especially those about the scandalous relationship between us, but somehow, they kept repeating in my head. Maybe this thing with Alex, whatever it was, needed to stop before it spiraled completely out of control. I can’t keep getting caught up in sordid affairs with older unavailable men. “Flora! Stop right there!” Alex’s voice thundered behind me as I darted into a dimly lit alley. But I didn’t plan to stop. I didn’t even know where I was headed; anywhere but away from him. As I heard his footsteps come closer, I took to my heels, and he chased after me. “I swear to God, Flora, I will punish you thoroughly for this!” His voice w
FLORA’S POV I met a few more people who were amazed by my presence. Before I was done talking to all those people, I felt better. As much as Cynthia’s little stunt earlier had rattled me, I wasn’t going to let one snooty wine heiress ruin my night. So, I let myself unwind and even flirted a little with some of the younger, single men. Every now and then, I felt Alex’s gaze on me. His eyes lingered just long enough to send a shiver down my spine, but he didn’t approach me. Instead, he remained engaged in conversation with Cynthia and the older man who had joined their little group earlier. After a while, the energy began to wane, and I found myself craving a quiet moment. As the music slowed and couples began to fill the dance floor, I slipped away to the rail overlooking the city skyline, still clutching the glass of champagne I had been nursing since the night began. “Can I have this dance, Ms. Roberts?” The smooth and familiar voice startled me. I spun around, and there h
FLORA’S POV “If that isn’t the charismatic Alexander Lee Bennett,” a sultry female voice chimed behind us, rich with amusement and laced with a faint accent. I felt Alex stiffen beside me, his grip on my hand tightening ever so slightly before he turned toward the source of the voice. I followed his gaze, my curiosity piqued, and my eyes met a piercing deep blue gaze staring into mine with a smirk. She looked stunning, and from her poise and the way she clutched her wine glass, I could tell she had been in this game for a long time. She was breathtaking, the kind of woman whose entire existence screamed old money, designer labels, and boarding school poise. Everything about her, her sleek, raven hair and her perfectly lined crimson lips, looked polished to perfection. She seemed familiar somehow, but I couldn’t place her face. “Cynthia,” Alex said with forced cheerfulness as he strode toward her. I watched as they exchanged kisses on the cheek, the kind of cheek kiss rich peo
ALEX’S POV “Are you nervous?” I asked as I stepped out and opened the car door for Flora, offering her my hand. She shook her head far too quickly, avoiding my gaze. “Not at all.” Liar. I could read her like an open book. Her fingers had trembled on the ride here, betraying the calm front she wore like armor. She had no idea just how much I noticed, every sigh, every nervous fidget, every time her teeth worried that soft bottom lip. One thing Flora doesn’t know about me is that I’m very observant, especially towards people I care about. And I care about Flora—a lot. And then there was that dress. Jesus Christ, that red sequin gown had me spiraling. It hugged every one of her curves as though it was custom-made to drive me insane. The slit up the side teased just enough of her smooth thigh to make my brain short-circuit. All the way to this goddamn event, I had been battling the overwhelming urge to pull her into my lap and take her right there in the backseat. I had been ro
FLORA’S POV As soon as I stepped out of the interview room, Vicky was waiting, her warm smile as radiant as ever. In one hand, she held a steaming mug of coffee, which she extended toward me. “Come here, my good luck charm,” she said, spreading her arms wide. I couldn’t help but return her smile as I walked into her embrace. The soft patting on my back was soothing, grounding me after the whirlwind of interviews and public appearances. “How was that interview?” she asked once we pulled apart, her eyes scanning my face with genuine interest. “It was... refreshing,” I replied as we started walking out of the building. Trailing behind us were her assistant and a couple of bodyguards. Vicky nodded approvingly. “Your story is inspiring, Flora. You’re now the new face of fashion in Rockshire. I knew you were a diamond the very first day I saw you, and I’m so glad you proved me right.” Her words sent warmth flooding through me. “Thank you, Vicky. I’m truly grateful for the opportu
MELISSA’S POV Five Days Later… “Miss Roberts, congratulations on such an incredible debut! Your designs were a showstopper and left the audience in awe, and your decision to walk the runway yourself was such a bold move. What inspired you to take on that challenge?" The interviewer’s voice droned from the TV. I rolled my eyes so hard they nearly stayed in the back of my head. Flora's smug smile on the screen was the cherry on top of the torture. She thought she was so clever, didn’t she? Riding on the back of pity to catapult herself into the limelight. Jayden, sitting beside me on the couch, leaned forward like a lovesick puppy. "Thank you so much!” Flora began. "To be honest, it wasn’t part of the plan at all. The day before the event, I found out my signature piece had been sabotaged. It was devastating. Someone had destroyed my dress, and all my sketches had been wiped from my system. To make things worse, my model called in sick just hours before the show." Jayden sighe