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Checkmate

Author: KK
last update Last Updated: 2024-10-31 15:14:42
Clara's POV

The headlines had been running for days now: "Reid Industries Scandal Deepens," "Alexander Reid Faces Federal Charges," "Corporate Dynasty Crumbles." Each one felt like another nail in my past life's coffin.

"You're doing it again," Nathan's voice pulled me from my thoughts. We were in his home office, the Manhattan skyline glittering beyond the windows. "That look like you're seeing ghosts."

I set down the tablet, trying to steady my racing heart. Even after weeks in his presence, Nathan Chen's ability to read me was unnerving. "Just thinking about how quickly things can change."

"Hmm." He moved behind my chair, his hands settling on my shoulders. "You mean how quickly you changed them."

"I didn't do this alone," I reminded him, leaning back into his touch despite myself.

His laugh was dark honey. "No, you didn't. But you orchestrated it perfectly." His fingers traced my collarbone. "Almost like you knew exactly how everyone would react."

My breath caught. Sometimes Nathan
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