When Vera Sinclair’s longtime boyfriend dumps her for the heiress she unknowingly replaced, she’s devastated but not broken. For years, she played the role of the perfect girlfriend, filling in the gaps while he pined for another woman. But now? She’s done being second best. Just when she thinks she’s free, a powerful billionaire, Asher Donovan enters the picture with an intriguing proposition. He needs a fiancée to silence his family’s constant matchmaking, and Vera, with her newfound indifference to love, is the perfect candidate. But Asher isn’t just any billionaire, he’s her ex’s former business rival, the one man who can make her ex regret ever letting her go. As Vera steps into the world of high society on her own terms, she realizes that being a “substitute” was never her destiny. She was meant to be someone’s first choice. And this time, love might just come with the sweetest revenge.
View MoreThe moment Vera Sinclair walked into the lavish restaurant, she knew something was off.
The low hum of conversation, the clinking of crystal glasses, and the rich aroma of gourmet dishes did nothing to settle the unease crawling up her spine.
Across the table, her boyfriend of four years, Lucas Whitmore, wore an expression she had never seen before, distant, cold, and unreadable.
She set her purse on the chair beside her and smiled, ignoring the warning bells in her head. "You’re quiet tonight. Long day?"
Lucas exhaled sharply, adjusting the cuffs of his expensive suit. "Vera, we need to talk."
Her stomach twisted.
No conversation that began with those words ever ended well.
Still, she forced herself to remain calm. "Okay. What’s on your mind?"
He didn't answer immediately. Instead, he picked up his wine glass, swirled the liquid, and watched it as if searching for words in the deep red color.
When he finally spoke, his voice carried a sharp edge. "I think we should break up."
For a moment, Vera thought she misheard him. Her breath hitched, and a slow numbness crept through her veins. "What?"
"It’s over, Vera."
She blinked, her mind struggling to catch up. "Lucas… is this a joke? Because if it is, it's not funny."
He sighed, setting his glass down with a soft clink. "I’m serious. I’ve been thinking about this for a while. You and I… we were never meant to last."
A painful lump formed in her throat. "Four years, Lucas. We've been together for four years. You don't just wake up one day and decide it’s over. What’s really going on?"
He leaned back, his gaze cool and detached. "I should have told you earlier, but I didn’t know how. The truth is… there’s someone else."
The world around her seemed to slow, the sounds of the restaurant fading into nothing. "Someone else?"
Lucas had the decency to look guilty. "Camilla Alden. We’ve been together for a while now."
Vera’s heart lurched, then plummeted into a freefall.
Camilla Alden.
The name sent a rush of memories through her mind, blonde, elegant, and the daughter of one of the wealthiest families in the city. More importantly, the woman Lucas had always described as 'just a friend.'
The realization was a gut punch. "So what was I, then? A placeholder until she wanted you?"
He hesitated, and that pause told her everything she needed to know.
Her breath came out in a shaky exhale, a bitter laugh escaping her lips. "Oh my God. That’s exactly what I was, wasn’t I? A substitute for Camilla."
"Vera, it’s not like that..."
"Then what is it like?" she snapped, her voice sharp with pain. "Tell me, Lucas. Was I just convenient? Someone to pass the time with until she was ready to take you back?"
Lucas rubbed his temples, clearly frustrated. "Look, I didn’t plan for this to happen. But Camilla… she’s the one I’ve always wanted. I thought I could move on, but I couldn’t."
Vera stared at him, the man she had loved, trusted, and built a life around. And in that moment, she realized something.
Lucas had never truly loved her. He had loved the idea of her, the stand in, the reliable one, the woman who was always there when his 'true love' wasn’t.
A dull ache spread through her chest, but she refused to let the tears fall. Instead, she straightened her shoulders and forced a small, bitter smile. "Thank you for finally being honest with me, Lucas. I wish you and Camilla all the happiness you deserve."
He looked momentarily taken aback, as if expecting her to beg or plead. But she wouldn’t give him that satisfaction.
Without another word, she grabbed her purse, stood up, and walked away, leaving Lucas Whitmore and four years of wasted love behind.
The cold night air bit at Vera’s skin, but she barely felt it. Her mind raced, replaying the conversation with Lucas over and over.
The betrayal, the humiliation, the unbearable realization that she had been nothing more than a stand in.
Her heels clicked against the pavement as she walked aimlessly through the city streets.
The distant hum of traffic, the neon glow of storefronts, and the occasional laughter of passing strangers all felt like a world apart from her own reality.
She had spent four years loving a man who had only been waiting for someone else.
The weight of it pressed down on her chest, but she refused to let it crush her. No. She had shed enough tears for Lucas Whitmore.
As she turned a corner, the looming silhouette of a bar caught her eye. "Seraph’s Lounge."
The golden letters gleamed under the streetlight, almost inviting her inside.
Vera had never been the type to drink her problems away, but tonight, she wanted an escape.
The warmth of the bar was a stark contrast to the icy night. The rich scent of whiskey and leather filled the air, and a soft jazz melody played in the background.
She slid onto a barstool, signaling the bartender. "Something strong. Surprise me."
The bartender, a woman with sharp eyes and a knowing smirk, nodded.
Within moments, a deep amber liquid filled a crystal glass before Vera. "Rough night?" she asked, wiping the counter.
Vera let out a hollow laugh. "Something like that."
She took a sip, the burn spreading through her, grounding her. It was then that she felt the weight of someone’s gaze on her.
"Drinking alone? That’s a dangerous habit," a deep voice drawled beside her.
Vera turned, her eyes meeting an intense, familiar stare. Asher Donovan.
Tall, dangerously handsome, and one of the most powerful businessmen in the city.
He was the kind of man who made deals over hundred year old scotch and destroyed his enemies with a single calculated move. But what was he doing here?
"Mr. Donovan," she acknowledged, forcing composure into her voice. "Didn’t take you for the type to frequent places like this."
His lips quirked in amusement. "And I didn’t take you for the type to drink alone."
Vera smirked, tilting her glass. "Then I guess we’re both full of surprises."
He studied her for a moment, something unreadable flashing in his eyes. "You don’t deserve to look this down, Vera."
Her breath caught. He said her name like it meant something, like he saw right through the mask she was struggling to keep on.
"And what do I deserve?" she found herself asking.
They moved together like a slow burning fire, building, rising, until the world around them disappeared completely. The only thing left was this: his mouth on her skin, her whispered pleas, the sound of their names breathed into the dark like prayers.When Vera shattered beneath him, Asher followed her, losing himself so completely that for a moment, there was nothing left of the man he’d been before her.Only them.Only this.He held her through it, their bodies tangled, his heart pounding against hers as the aftershocks shuddered through them both. Neither of them spoke. They didn’t need to. Every touch, every look said enough.Finally, when the world started to drift back in, the faint hum of the city beyond the windows, the cool air brushing over sweat slicked skin, Asher shifted just enough to pull the covers over them, tucking her against his chest.Vera’s head rested in the crook of his neck, her breathing soft and even. But she wasn’t asleep.He could feel it, the way her fing
Asher groaned under his breath, one hand tightening around her waist. “You don’t fight fair.”“And you love it,” she whispered, leaning forward to brush her nose against his.He tilted his head, eyes locked with hers. “You’re dangerous like this.”“I know,” she smiled, brushing her lips over his, just barely, a tease that made his grip falter.“I mean it,” he said, voice low and thick. “You don’t know what you do to me.”“Maybe I do,” she breathed, eyes hooded, lips parting just enough..And then she yawned.Long. Loud. Incredibly unsexy.Asher blinked. Vera blinked too, like she didn’t believe it happened.“…Okay,” she said, half laughing, half embarrassed. “Maybe I am drunk.”Asher laughed, pulling her close against his chest and kissing the top of her head. “Yeah. You are.”She curled up in his arms, letting out a soft sigh. “Still serious though… you’re mine.”He looked down at her, her eyes fluttering shut, her lips curved in a sleepy smile.“Yeah,” he murmured. “I’m yours.”Vera
They sat down at the kitchen island instead of the formal dining area, something casual and intimate.The late afternoon sun streamed through the wide floor to ceiling windows, casting a golden hue across the space.Vera moved quietly, still lost in the storm of emotions she’d bottled up since overhearing the conversation.Asher pulled out her chair before taking his own, clearly noticing the shift in her demeanor but choosing not to push, at least not yet.“Wow,” he murmured, looking at the spread she’d laid out. “You really went all out.”“I figured I’d cook for you this time,” she said, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. “You’ve been practically feeding me for weeks.”Asher chuckled, his eyes twinkling. “Well, I’ve just been ordering the food. You actually made it. So you win.”Vera offered a shy smile, finally taking her seat.There was freshly made penne in a creamy garlic parmesan sauce, oven roasted vegetables tossed in olive oil and herbs, and warm slices of sourdough wi
“Did I hire a chef while I wasn’t looking?” he asked, arms crossed as he leaned against the doorframe.Vera turned around, stirring spoon still in hand. “If you did, she’s underpaid.”Asher chuckled, stepping closer. “I didn’t even know I had real food in here. I thought my assistant just stocked it for display.”“Well, it’s not just for display anymore.” She tilted her head with a teasing smile. “I’m officially christening your kitchen.”“You look good in here,” he said simply, his eyes warm.She blinked. “In the kitchen?”“In my space.”Her breath caught.There was something about the way he said my space that made her feel like he wasn’t just talking about his home. He was talking about his life. About her fitting into it. Being part of it.She turned back to stir the pasta, hiding the smile tugging at her lips. “Well, lucky for you, I plan on feeding you while I’m here.”Asher moved behind her and wrapped his arms around her waist, chin resting on her shoulder. “Mmm, dangerous off
The sleek elevator glided to a smooth stop, its polished chrome doors parting with a soft chime. Vera stepped out first, her boots clicking gently against the glossy marble floor as she followed Asher into his penthouse for the very first time.The moment she entered, her breath caught in her throat.She’d seen wealth before. Been surrounded by it ever since the day her real parents found her. She’d attended banquets, stayed in mansions, worn designer clothes and diamonds that would make the average girl gasp.But this?This was different.This was Asher.Floor to ceiling windows stretched across the entire length of the living room, giving way to an endless view of the city skyline.It was breathtaking, sharp lines of glass towers glittering under the afternoon sun, with a soft haze hanging like a silk veil over the city.The walls were done in deep, warm tones, matte blacks and earthy taupes, softened by scattered art pieces and shelves lined with books. Not cold, not sterile like m
Meanwhile…Vera’s Apartment, Late AfternoonAsher sat on the couch in sweatpants and a fitted black tee, Vera’s head resting on his lap while her fingers lazily played with his.A half eaten box of Chinese takeout was perched on the coffee table, and the hum of a soft playlist filled the room.“Don’t you have somewhere important to be?” Vera asked, teasing, eyes closed as she nuzzled into the fabric of his shirt.Asher smirked, brushing her hair back from her face. “I am somewhere important.”She opened one eye, giving him a playful look. “That sounds dangerously close to cheesy.”“It was cheesy,” he admitted, grinning. “But also true.”She smiled, but he could see the worry creeping into her eyes, faint, but there. “I’m not… ruining things for you, am I?”His fingers stilled.He tilted her chin up so she was looking at him. “Vera, the only thing you’re ruining is my ability to focus on anything that’s not you.”She snorted, but her cheeks pinked.“I mean it,” he added, voice soft. “Y
Donovan Estate, Morning Conference RoomThe large oak doors slammed shut, rattling the glass paneling in their frames as Richard Donovan threw the morning newspaper down onto the polished table.The headline was bold, brash, and unforgiving.“Heir Apparent or Scandal Magnet? Asher Donovan’s Wild Romp With Mystery Girl Continues!”The full page spread showed high quality photos from the golf course, Vera in Asher’s arms on the dance floor, and a slightly blurry, but no less damning, shot of the two of them kissing under neon lights at the club.“We’re a goddamn joke!” Richard barked, his hand slamming down on the wood. “Is this what he thinks representing this family looks like?! Playing house with some girl who showed up out of nowhere and parading around town like a celebrity?!”Across the table, Evelyn Donovan sat, her lips pursed tightly as she stared at the photo with icy silence.Dressed immaculately in a cream silk blouse and pearls, she looked calm. But the grip she had on her
Asher walked over without a word, sitting beside her.His hand gently found hers.“Was that about… your mother?” he asked softly.She nodded, her voice nearly a whisper. “She’s dying.”Asher’s jaw clenched, but not out of anger, out of restraint. He was careful not to push, to let her speak at her own pace.“Her assistant. Eliza Renner. Said she was on her deathbed and asking for me,” Vera murmured, voice trembling. “I didn’t know what to do. I didn’t even know how to feel. These people gave me away, and now they want me to just… show up at her bedside like nothing happened?”She looked up at him, her eyes glassy. “I just… I don’t want to open that door unless I’m ready. And I don’t know if I’ll ever be ready.”“I get it,” he said, and then he chuckled softly, surprising her.“What?” she asked, frowning.“I just remembered something,” he said, shaking his head. “The Sterling family… they’re not exactly known for their timing. Or sincerity.”Vera’s eyes narrowed slightly.“Let’s just s
Back in the living room, Asher sat at Vera’s small dining table, his laptop open, eyes fixed on a presentation slide he’d been tweaking for the past twenty minutes.It wasn’t that it needed adjusting, he just needed something to do with his hands, something to anchor him as the world around them buzzed with chaos.His phone buzzed again on the table beside him, lighting up for the third time in under five minutes.Sarah Langford.The name flashed in bold, her contact photo, an old professional shot, looking more and more like a ghost from a different life. Asher watched it ring, expression unreadable, jaw ticking slightly.He didn’t answer.Instead, he picked up his coffee mug, took a sip, and returned to reviewing the same bullet point he’d already reread too many times.The phone rang again.Sarah Langford.Again.He reached out this time, not to answer, but to mute the call, dragging the volume bar all the way down before tossing the device back onto the table with a careless flick
Welcome to GoodNovel world of fiction. If you like this novel, or you are an idealist hoping to explore a perfect world, and also want to become an original novel author online to increase income, you can join our family to read or create various types of books, such as romance novel, epic reading, werewolf novel, fantasy novel, history novel and so on. If you are a reader, high quality novels can be selected here. If you are an author, you can obtain more inspiration from others to create more brilliant works, what's more, your works on our platform will catch more attention and win more admiration from readers.
Comments