NICHOLAS' POV The soft hum of violins filled the ballroom as waiters moved deftly through the crowd, balancing trays of champagne flutes. I accepted one, more out of habit than thirst. The sharp bubbles tingled on my tongue, leaving a faint metallic aftertaste—but I dismissed it.Next to me, Isabella was glowing, her emerald gown catching the light with every movement. She was laughing softly at something a guest had said, her eyes bright and full of life.I couldn’t help but watch her. She fit in here effortlessly, yet stood out all the same, commanding attention without trying.When she glanced at me, I realized I hadn’t looked away in time. Her smile deepened, and before I could rationalize my actions, I extended my hand."Shall we?”Her lips curved into that soft smile that always managed to make something in my chest stir. “Are you asking me to dance, Mr. Montgomery?”I tipped my head. “It would be a shame not to, Mrs. Montgomery.”The murmurs around us shifted as we stepped on
NICHOLAS POV The moment I recognized the truth, a wave of revulsion coursed through me, stronger and more intense than before. My skin recoiled and I felt the unmistakable feeling of bugs crawling into my skin. This wasn't just some random woman. It was her. The realization snapped something inside me. My hand shot out, gripping her throat before she could react. With a burst of strength fueled by my fury and disgust, I slammed her against the wall. The thud echoed in the room and she whimpered, her hands clasping my wrist. "What the fuck do you think you're trying to do, Christabella?" I snarled, my voice low and lethal. Her eyes widened in horror, her pretense crumbling entirely. The confident smile she had worn earlier disappeared, replaced by panic as she struggled to breath through the intensity of my grip. "N...Ni...cho...las..." She choked, her voice trembling but I tightened my hold slightly, cutting her off."I asked you a question, Christabella!" I growled, my jaw clenc
NICHOLAS POV The jolt in my cock instantly snapped me back to reality and I immediately shoved myself away from Isabella with a force that made almost stumble to the floor. "What...are you... doing here?" My voice was hoarse, strained from the chaos brewing within me.Isabella raised a brow in confusion but cleared her throat "You left suddenly without informing me. I was looking all over the ballroom for you. I wanted to discuss something with you" Her eyes searched mine and her expression shifted. "Mr. Montgomery, are you okay?"No. I wasn't. My pulse was erratic. My skin too hot and too tight. My pants were growing impossible tight. The ache in my dick was getting unbearable and I'm seconds away from losing my goddamn mind because her presence was making everything so much worse. "Whatever you wanted to discuss with me can wait" I managed to say, my voice tight "We'll talk in the morning. I just need to...rest"She frowned "Are you okay? Is something wrong?" She asked again. "I
NICHOLAS POV My hand reached for my belt and I stripped myself in front of her watching as her eyes grew wide in both shock and want when she saw my length. A hot blush stained her cheeks and she gulped making every resolve I have succumb. I crawled into the bed and pinned her hands above her head, her body now in the position I wanted.I leaned over her, pressing a deep kiss on her lips as my hand reached for her bra and unclasped it.“Fuck, Bella,” I growled against her skin, my breath ragged as I traced slow, deliberate kisses along the curve of her neck. “You have no idea what you do to me.”She trembled in my arms, her fingers digging into my shoulders as if she needed something to anchor her to reality. Her body fit against mine so perfectly that I felt lightheaded, overwhelmed by the sheer heat between us. “Then show me,” she whispered, her lips grazing the shell of my ear. “Show me what I do to you”I lowered my mouth, dragging my tongue over one hardened peak before sucking
NICHOLAS POV My eyes cracked open, a low groan rumbling from my chest as an unwelcome chill settled over me. The warmth and softness I’d held onto through the night was gone. Turning my head to the side, I found her, my Isabella, lying peacefully just out of reach. She wasn’t in my arms anymore, and the absence of her against me explained the cold that seeped into my skin.The morning sunlight filtered through the curtains, its warm glow brushing against Isabella’s sleeping form. I sat up against the headboard, letting my head rest against the cool wood, my gaze fixed on her. She lay on her side, the sheet loosely tangled around her waist, leaving the smooth expanse of her curves. Her auburn hair spilled across the pillow like a tangled halo.My gaze deliberately wandered over her, starting with her serene, closed eyes framed by long lashes, then down to her perfectly defined nose. My attention lingered on her full, luxurious lips, slightly parted as if inviting a kiss. From there, m
Isabella’s POVThe warm scent of freshly made pancakes wafted through the room as I stepped out of the bathroom. My hair was still damp, and the hotel robe clung to my frame. I paused in the doorway, my eyes landing on the tray of food set on the small dining table.Pancakes, berries, syrup, and coffee. It looked as perfect as something out of a magazine. But my stomach clenched, not in hunger, but in dread.I stayed by the bed, gripping the edge of my robe as my mind spiraled. It’s just food, Isabella. Normal, safe food. So why won't I just stop being overdramatic?But that gnawing, irrational fear whispered otherwise. What if it wasn’t? What if…“It’s not poisoned.” Nicholas’s deep voice cut through my spiraling thoughts. My gaze snapped to him in shock, only to find him already seated at the table, a fork in hand. He cut into the pancake with calm precision, lifted a bite to his mouth, and chewed slowly before swallowing.“You don’t need to worry about that, Sunshine,”I stared at
FEW DAYS LATER ISABELLA'S POV The soft hum of the air conditioner was the only sound in the room, but it couldn’t drown out the thoughts swirling in my head. I shifted under the covers, staring up at the ceiling. It was my only company, and I hated it. I hated how its blankness mirrored my own confusion. Sleep was impossible tonight- not with so much weighing on me.The next step was clear and reclaiming my firm was no longer impossible. Nicholas had helped me gather enough evidence to make my case if I wanted. Mr. Arlington's final hearing will be in one month which means I had enough time on my hand. I just needed to wait for the right time before making my next move. But as much as I tried to focus on strategy, my mind kept slipping to Nicholas.I had played our night together over and over again in my head- The way he’d touched me, worshipped me, made me feel like I was more than just a body or a means to an end. I had been bracing myself for the usual indifference the morning
ISABELLA'S POV The city unfolded before me in dazzling lights as the car sped toward our destination. My thoughts were still on the plane ride—a quiet mix of stolen glances, comfortable silence, and Nicholas’s presence beside me that seemed to command my every breath. The private jet had been just as luxurious as I’d expected, its leather seats and sleek design screaming Nicholas Montgomery.When we boarded, I’d hesitated, assuming he might prefer his space, but Nicholas had gestured for me to sit beside him without a word. The gesture felt casual, almost as though it were expected.The hum of the engines was oddly soothing as the flight began, and I hadn’t realized how tired I was until my eyelids betrayed me, growing heavy. The next thing I knew, I woke to find my head resting against Nicholas’s shoulder. I froze, my heart leaping into my throat. Before I could fully process the situation, I noticed his coat draped over me, its faint, woodsy scent cocooning me in warmth.I turned
ISABELLA'S POV Nicholas withdrew his fingers, coated with my release, and brought them to my lips. “Taste yourself, Sunshine,” he demanded softly. I obeyed, sucking his fingers clean, my gaze locked with his.“Good girl,” he growled, pulling me into a searing kiss. His tongue swept into my mouth, tasting me as though he couldn’t get enough.My hands fumbled with the button of his pants, tugging them down and wrapping my fingers around his hard length. “Fuck, Isabella,” he groaned as I stroked him, his breath hitching.His hand went to my thighs and he parted them. He stepped back, staring at me like I was a work of art, something meant to be worshiped, explored, and pleasured. I bit my lips, my cheeks burning red. “You’re so beautiful,” he murmured, his gaze filled with unrestrained desire.“Stop teasing,” I pleaded breathlessly, tugging him closer.Nicholas grinned, lowering his head to place a long, teasing lick against my soaked folds. “Impatient, are we?” he teased “Come on, tel
ISABELLA'S POV The Ravioli was finally ready, its aroma filling the kitchen. Nicholas stepped back, his arms crossed as he leaned against the counter, watching me with a small, expectant smile.“Well, Sunshine,” he said, his voice carrying that familiar teasing lilt, “the honor is all yours. Let’s see if my hard work can impress you.” I stared at the plate in front of me, my heart racing—not just because of the food, but because of the man who had made it with me. The Ravioli looked perfect, and I wasn’t sure if it was the dish or Nicholas's piercing gaze that made me feel so warm.“You’re really building this up,” I murmured, trying to play it cool even as my hands trembled slightly.His grin widened. “You’re stalling,” he teased, his voice dropping just enough to send a shiver down my spine. “Come on, Sunshine. I’m on the edge of my seat here.”I swallowed hard, cutting into the Ravioli and bringing the fork to my lips. The moment the flavors hit my tongue, my eyes widened. The ri
ISABELLA'S POV Before we even started cooking, Nicholas stopped me with a hand on my shoulder. “First things first,” he said, reaching for a hair tie and a hair net resting on the counter.“What are you doing?” I asked, arching a brow at him.He smirked. “Making sure your hair doesn’t end up in the Ravioli, Sunshine.”I opened my mouth to protest but froze when he stepped closer, his fingers brushing lightly against my shoulders. “Turn around,” he murmured, and I hesitated for a moment before obeying, letting out a shaky breath as I felt his hands gather my hair.His movements were deliberate. His knuckles grazing the back of my neck as he pulled my hair into a neat ponytail. My skin tingled where he touched me, a shiver running down my spine when his thumb accidentally swept over the nape of my neck.“You okay?” he asked, his voice low and rough, but there was a hint of amusement in his tone, like he knew exactly what he was doing to me.“I'm fine,” I said quickly, though my voice c
ISABELLA'S POV I hummed softly to myself as I rummaged through the cabinets, gathering the ingredients I needed. The kitchen was quiet, save for the occasional clatter of pots and the soft rustle of packaging. Breakfast wasn’t my forte, but I could manage my usual—white pasta with tomato sauce. Simple, safe, and familiar.I had just placed the box of pasta on the counter when I felt it. A presence. My movements stilled, the tiny hairs on the back of my neck standing on end. I turned, and there he was.Nicholas stood at the kitchen entrance, his broad shoulders leaning casually against the doorframe, but there was nothing casual about the way his eyes raked over me. A deliberate inspection that started at my face and moved downward with agonizing slowness.His gaze paused at my chest, and my breath hitched when I realized why. The thin fabric of my shirt did little to hide the outline of my peaks beneath, visible in the soft morning light. His eyes darkened, the grey in them turning s
ISABELLA'S POV The meeting had gone better than I expected. Watching Nicholas handle the presentation with his usual precision and authority had been a sight to behold. Even Mr. Franklin, who initially seemed hesitant, was visibly impressed.As the executives left, I lingered by the hallway. Nicholas was still speaking with Mr. Franklin, their voices low as they discussed final details. I clasped my hands in front of me, a soft smile tugging at my lips. For the first time in a while, I felt like I’d contributed something meaningful.“Mrs. Montgomery?”The deep, confident voice pulled me from my thoughts. I turned to see a tall man in a perfectly tailored navy suit approaching. He looked to be in his early thirties, with striking brown eyes and an easy smile that was undeniably charismatic.“Yes?” I replied, tilting my head slightly.He extended a hand, his voice warm. “Ryan Caldwell. COO of Franklin Industries. I couldn’t leave without introducing myself.”“Ah, Mr. Caldwell,” I said,
NICHOLAS POV The conference room was a fortress of efficiency—sleek, modern, and perfectly calibrated for business. The faint hum of the holographic projector filled the room as I stood at the head of the table, presenting what I knew was a flawless pitch. Across from me, Mr. Franklin Darnell, a man with silvering hair and sharp eyes, leaned back in his chair, arms crossed as he studied the display.I didn’t blame him for being cautious; projects like this weren’t mere investments—they were legacy. His plans to build an amusement park were ambitious, aiming to create not just a destination but an experience for families and children across the region.And that’s where I came in.“As you know, Mr. Franklin, Neuro-Corp specializes in integrating cutting-edge technology into large-scale projects. We have designed systems that will redefine the operational efficiency of your park,” I said, gesturing to the virtual blueprint hovering in midair. “Our autonomous safety protocols are state-o
Isabella's POVThe rooftop terrace was like something out of a dream. The glittering city below stretched endlessly, a sea of twinkling lights dancing beneath the darkened sky. Above, the stars shone faintly, as if whispering secrets to one another. A gentle breeze rustled past, cool but not biting, carrying with it the faint hum of the city far below.Leaning against the edge, I let out a soft sigh. It was breathtaking, every inch of it—the lights, the breeze, the quiet serenity that seemed so impossible in a world as noisy as ours. For a moment, I closed my eyes, letting the stillness sink in. When I opened them, I couldn’t stop the small smile tugging at my lips.“This is incredible,” I said softly, more to myself than to him.I didn’t hear Nicholas move, but I felt him before I saw him, his presence unmistakable as he stepped closer. He was quiet, as always, but there was something different about him in this moment—something softer. The usual edge he carried seemed dulled by the
ISABELLA'S POV "Let's make this more interesting, Mr. Montgomery. Winner gets to demand a favor" "A favor?" His tone was skeptical but I caught the glint of amusement in his eyes. "Any favor?" His gaze darkened in mischief."What's wrong? Afraid I'll beat you to it?" I teased leaning against the counter as the vendor handed a set of darts.Nicholas’s expression shifted, his usual calm replaced by something sharper. He wasn’t the kind of man to back down from a challenge, and I had clearly stoked his competitive side.The reward were low, just a stuffed animal prize but Nicholas had too much pride to back down.“Prepare to lose, Mrs. Montgomery,” he said, his voice laced with confidence.He stepped up to the line, his posture perfect, and movements precise as he put on some gloves. I winked at him as he took aim, watching with quiet amusement. The first dart sailed through the air, landing in the outer ring of the target with a solid thud. It wasn’t bad, but it wasn’t impressive eith
NICHOLAS POVThe street fair loomed before us like a chaotic storm I had no interest in weathering. The air was thick, the sound of laughter and chatter blending into a noise that clawed at my nerves. Bright colors blurred before my eyes. The crowd swarmed in eaves- shouting, the distant hum of music, the smell of street food mixing with the unmistakable scent of warm bodies and sweat. It all felt too close. Too loud. I stopped at the edge of the pavement, my muscle muscles stiffening as the rush of bodies pushed by. My stomach churned. My throat tightened. I could feel the heat of people brushing past me, their voices rising each passing minutes. My breath faltered as I glanced around, scanning the crowd with precision, calculating every exist, every opportunity to retreat because the closer people got, the harder it became to breath and my chest tightened with the old familiar pressure- like hands were closing in on me. Memories I thought I had long buried resurfaced. A differe