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Chapter Sixteen
Last Updated:
2025-03-06 10:19:21
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No Way to Win Me Back Chapter Seventeen
Celeste’s POV“Celeste, dear, come in.” My mother beamed at me from her front door.“Hi, mom.” I handed her a bouquet as I walked into my childhood home.She squeezed the breath out of me before shutting the door.“Oh, they’re lovely.” She said, fetching a vase. “What’s the occasion?”I sat on a barstool facing the kitchen window. The swings of the old treehouse my father had built swayed in the afternoon breeze.“There’s no occasion. I just thought of you when I saw them.”She placed the vase on the island before sitting beside me.“How have things been, Celeste?”Her voice betrayed her worry.“Honestly? Really great.” I said. “I find designing jewelry so stimulating. I could do it forever.”The purple hydrangeas I’d bought because they were my mother’s favorite caught my eye. My heart ached.Would my daughter do the same?I blinked back tears. “The hard part is being separated from Bonnie.”My mother rested her hand on mine, nodding. I could see my pain reflected in her eyes.“I mis
Last Updated : 2025-03-09No Way to Win Me Back Chapter Eighteen
Celeste’s POVThe stench of alcohol slammed into me as Damien staggered on my mother’s front porch. “What are you doing here so late?” My nose twitched with disgust. “And why do you reek of alcohol?”“Come back home, Celeste.” He slurred. I shook my head. “You’re drunk out of your mind. Go home.”On unsteady feet, he stepped forward and stretched his arms wide.Did he seriously expect me to hug him?I slammed the door closed, but he was too quick. He wedged his shoulder through the doorway. I could smell the brandy on his breath as I pushed against the door to keep him from barging all the way in.It was revolting.“Celeste, sweet cheeks, please let me in, hmm?” He murmured. “I miss you.”He hadn’t called me that since we got married. It made my stomach turn.“Damien, my mother is sleeping.” I hissed. “I don’t want to disturb her.”His tone flipped in an instant.“You don’t want to say no to me tonight.” Fear crept in. I glanced at the half-moon table just inside the entryway as h
Last Updated : 2025-03-10No Way to Win Me Back Chapter Nineteen
Vanessa’s POVI clutched the pregnancy test in my hand, its two red lines plunging my heart into a pit of despair. I was pregnant. This was what I had desperately wanted. People always warn: be careful what you wish for.I slid to the cool tiles of the bathroom floor. Memories of the past months flashed through my mind. Damien had hardly touched me since his divorce. In those rare moments when he gave in to desire, I could still feel his coldness and rejection. I felt lonelier and more sexually frustrated when he was done.In a moment of reckless vengeance and need, I’d hired a male escort.I spent that night satisfying my craving and filling the emptiness with the most skilled escort Damien’s money could buy. But I hadn’t used protection.Those two red lines glared at me.Was the child Damien’s like I had planned?The uncertainty left my head spinning. If he discovered my infidelity, he wouldn’t forgive me, and I’d be left raising a child alone without his money. It was a disaster
Last Updated : 2025-03-11No Way to Win Me Back Chapter Twenty
Damien’s POVPain flooded my senses as soon as I regained consciousness. My head was pounding from a massive hangover and my body ached like a car had run it over. Scratch that–a bus.I opened my eyes, and the light stabbed my retinas. I clutched my head, blinking rapidly before the pain subsided. Curled in my arms, sound asleep, was Vanessa. We were in her room and the bedding was a rumpled mess. My brows tightly furrowed as I tried to piece together the events of last night. I remembered drinking and deciding to visit Celeste.So how did I end up with Vanessa?My mind was foggy and brimming with unease. I untangled myself from her and sat up, groaning as nausea hit me alongside a fresh wave of agony. I fumbled through my nightstand’s drawers.“Good morning, babe.” Vanessa stretched beside me. “How did you sleep?”Her words felt like hot iron skewers in my brain. I found the painkillers and swallowed one, paused, and took another.“Be quiet.”My voice was a rasp. I lifted the cover
Last Updated : 2025-03-11No Way to Win Me Back Chapter Twenty One
Celeste’s POVRyan was a lifesaver.I don’t know what we would’ve done without him, given the exhibit preparations and the overwhelming number of orders. We had been working nonstop to get everything ready in time. My new assistant made the challenge manageable.I sat at my desk, organizing a few design drafts I had been working on. Looking around for my file, I saw it placed at the top of a tall shelf. Ryan had tidied the space after the mayhem of completing and submitting my jewelry designs for the exhibit. I stretched on the tips of my toes, but I didn’t come close to reaching it–even with tall heels on for the event. Sighing, I brought out a ladder. I’d sent my tall assistant to fetch materials that were delivered at the front desk. I heard Ryan put down the package behind me as I climbed the ladder.“Celeste, you should have waited for me.” “No, it’s fine.” I said, pulling the file out of the shelf. “I’ve got it.”“That doesn’t look safe.” I looked down at him as he stood beh
Last Updated : 2025-03-12No Way to Win Me Back Chapter Twenty Two
Celeste’s POV“Please tell Damien I have no interest in collaborating with him or his company.” I said.The event coordinator looked puzzled. “Why would you turn him down without at least considering the offer? Mr. Kent’s assistant said he was willing to give you a substantial sum.”I understood his confusion. A new designer would be thrilled if a company wanted to sign them. And over the moon, if they offered a lot of money.But I’d rather starve than work with that man.“I know how he runs his company and how he treats his subordinates. I refuse to work with someone like him.” I held my head high as I spoke. “It’s a matter of principle.”He furrowed his eyebrows.“Are you certain? You would be throwing away an excellent opportunity.”I nodded firmly. “There will be other opportunities. Please inform Damien that I am declining his offer and won’t change my mind.”He said. “I will be sure to deliver the message.”“Thank you. Please remember not to reveal my identity.”The event coordi
Last Updated : 2025-03-12No Way to Win Me Back Chapter Twenty Three
Celeste’s POVI fumed at Damien’s pigheaded words. He believed that everyone was beneath him and had no qualms about letting them know. But he couldn’t be more wrong. Ryan and I were more valuable as individuals than whatever Damien’s current net worth was.I deeply regretted marrying that man.“What?” he scoffed. “You have nothing to say for yourselves?” “You’re simply not worth our time.” I shook my head at him. “Come on, Ryan. We have better things to do than entertain this pompous jerk.”I reached for his hand–hoping to walk away before Damien could waste any more of our time. But he wasn’t finished yet.“I’m surprised you know such big words.” Damien smirked. “Are you here scouting for your next rich victim to mooch off of?”Did this man get off on insulting people?The lean muscles of Ryan’s body were coiled–just begging for release–as he looked back over his shoulder and his eyes found mine. His voice was low and dangerous as he said, “Celeste, please let me knock this asshole
Last Updated : 2025-03-13No Way to Win Me Back Chapter Twenty Four
Celeste’s POVI spun around and my eyes searched through the crowd. They lit up when they landed on Bonnie, who let go of Vanessa’s hand and ran towards me. She had an excited smile on her pretty face.God, I had missed her. My heart swelled with anticipation. As she neared me, I crouched down and opened my arms for her to jump into. I hadn’t seen my baby in ages.But Bonnie ran past me and my heart fell through the exhibition floor. I turned around to watch her run straight to Damien. He swept her off the floor and into his arms, carrying her on his hip. Her giggles were like a thousand pinpricks to my chest.“Hey, honey.” I said, my heart in a million pieces. “Mommy’s so happy to see you.”She regarded me for a moment.“Hello, Mommy.”Bonnie spoke with an air of indifference before turning back to her father. Her eyes beamed as she smiled at him like he was her entire world. Vanessa strolled over and gave Damien a peck on the cheek.They looked like a picture perfect family.With
Last Updated : 2025-03-13
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No Way to Win Me Back Chapter Forty Seven
Celeste’s POV“If money won’t persuade you, how about the chance to have me all to yourself?” Damien spread his arms wide like he was offering me the universe. “Gee, let me think about that.” I tapped my chin. “I’d rather stick needles in my eyes.”His bravado dropped a notch.“I’ll cut ties with Vanessa.” He said tenderly, hand reaching for mine. “We can be a happy family again, Celeste–just the three of us.”“I didn’t realize your company was in such jeopardy that you’re willing to sell yourself to work with Rosemary.”I stepped out of his reach and sipped my champagne–smirking while he frowned.“Imperial Aurum is doing better than ever.” Damien said, feathers bristled. I placed a hand over my mouth, chuckling. “Whatever you need to tell yourself to show your face in public.”“I’m giving you an opportunity to expand your business and get out of the minor leagues, Celeste. Think wisely before you throw it away.” He spoke through gritted teeth.I gave him a blasé shrug. “Why would I
No Way to Win Me Back Chapter Forty Six
Celeste’s POV“Let go of me, you caveman.” I hissed, yanking my arm free from Damien’s grasp.Only he would have the nerve to insinuate I snuck into this lavish event to seduce Celine’s husband. It took a special cocktail of delusion, arrogance, and crazy.“Frankly, you pathetically trying to cozy up to the elite doesn’t surprise me.” Damien said coldly. “No, it’s the fact that a worthless housewife made it through the front doors that I find astounding. You don’t belong here, Celeste.” He stalked towards me, and I backed away.“But I’m more than happy to rectify that mistake.” His lips curled into a twisted smile.Then Brian stepped in front of me, his tall frame towering over Damien. “That is no way to treat a lady, never mind one of Celine’s honored guests.” The powerful man glowered. “Show some respect to Ms. Rosemary.”Damien froze where he stood, stupefied.“You mean to say that the woman behind you is the rising designer, Rosemary?” He furrowed his eyebrows, incredulous. “No o
No Way to Win Me Back Chapter Forty Five
Celeste’s POVLight from countless flashing cameras burned my retinas as I stepped out of the cab. They were upon us before Grace could even close the door.Celine Mars’ private party seemed more like the event of the century.We linked arms and pushed through the reporters as they swarmed us, asking questions faster than I could listen. But one made me stumble over my own feet.“Are either of you the mysterious designer, Rosemary?”Grace steadied me and kept walking until we joined the flowing line of runway ready guests entering the mansion. We wore simple yet bold cocktail dresses. I noticed several appreciative glances thrown our way. “How did they know I’d be here?” I whispered.She surveyed the reporters being held back by security and shook her head in amazement.“With this crowd, nothing stays private for long.”I swallowed, steadying my nerves.At the massive doors, a lady asked for our names, eyes scanning a tablet.“Rosemary.” I said, voice even despite my nerves.She stopp
No Way to Win Me Back Chapter Forty Four
Damien’s POV“Did you just say Rosemary will be there?” I breathed into my phone, bewildered.“Yes, sir. She’s a special guest at Celine Mars’ party tomorrow night.” Miss Wilson responded. “She’s planning to introduce her to her most influential friends.”I’d finally caught a break. If I attended that party, I’d be able to speak to that pain in the ass secretive designer and save my company. But if I didn’t, Rosemary would sign with one of Celine’s wealthy guests.“I need an invitation to that party. Make it happen.” I ended the call and tossed my phone onto the sofa.“Sorry, Bon-Bon.” I ruffled her hair. “Daddy had to take that call, but I’m all yours now.”She shrugged, nibbling a fry. “It’s okay, Daddy. I know you always have to work.”With my company nearing a state of collapse, I’d been too busy to spend any time with her. She seemed withdrawn, so I left work early.“How’s your burger?” I asked, taking a bite of my own.I’d bought an array of junk food–I wasn’t sure which was Bo
No Way to Win Me Back Chapter Forty Three
Celeste’s POV“Thank you, Molly.” I blinked back tears and smiled at her. “Your parents are very lucky to have you as a daughter. You’re an angel.”I wanted to scream.My daughter couldn’t be lucky, could she? She hated my freaking guts. But Molly looked up at me like she wholly believed what she’d said, and I hoped she was right. Hoped my daughter would come back to me.“But they don’t have time for me.” Her voice was so small.I tilted her chin up.“Hey, they love you, honey.” I smiled warmly. “But if you’re ever bored or lonely, you’re welcome to visit me.”Molly nodded, sniffling.I crouched down and wrapped my arms around her. She squeezed me so tight that I felt comforted and wondered which of us needed the hug more. We were smiling by the time we released each other.Ryan crouched down, booping her nose. “Mols, the bathroom is through that door. You can go look at your hair in the mirror.”He pursed his lips as she ambled away. “Her parents are extremely busy at work and seldo
No Way to Win Me Back Chapter Forty Two
Celeste’s POVThe girl holding Ryan’s hand peered up shyly, and my heart melted. Aside from her hazel eyes, she was an adorable, tiny version of Ryan. “Who is this angel?” I gushed.“Say hi Molly.” Ryan told her sweetly.She tucked herself behind him and peeked at me under dark lashes. “She’s a bit shy.” He chuckled. “This is Molly, my niece. I’m taking care of her while my sister-in-law and brother are away on business.”My gaze was drawn to his exposed chest as he spoke–he’d left an extra button undone. I glanced away and squatted down to the girl’s level. “Hi, Molly. It’s nice to meet you. I’m Celeste.”“And I’m Grace.” She said, crouching beside me.Ryan smiled encouragingly at her. “Don’t be afraid, Mols.”“Hi.” she said, voice soft and sweet.The girl clutched something in her hands and my eyes brightened when I saw it was an art case.“Do you like drawing Molly?” I asked.She smiled tentatively and nodded.“Really? Can I see your art?” Just like that, she let go of Ryan’s le
No Way to Win Me Back Chapter Forty One
Celeste’s POV“Call your men off, you coward!” I shouted as the security guards seized me.They escorted me out of the building with practiced efficiency. The closer we got to the entrance, the more my indignation built.Damien had no right to treat people like his playthings.“You’re the most air-headed, selfish asshole I’ve had the displeasure of knowing.” I shouted at the entrance of his company. His jaw clenched as the passing employees eyed us.“Celeste, this is my place of work.” He said through gritted teeth.I couldn’t care less about preserving his reputation. One day, the upstanding businessman facade would shatter and I’d watch with glee.“Make sure you fetch our daughter on Monday or god help you.” I warned coldly before leaving.All too soon, I was in my studio building’s parking garage. Flipping down the sun visor, I gasped at my reflection. An obvious hickey peeked out of the neckline of my blouse and I smacked myself for not seeing it sooner. I covered it with the la
No Way to Win Me Back Chapter Forty
Celeste’s POV“Damien, leaving you was the worst mistake of my life.” I said, voice trembling as I walked towards him. “I’ll do anything for you to take me back.”“I knew it was only a matter of time.” He smiled from ear to ear. I batted my eyes at him. “Life is empty without you. Please let me come back home.”His smirk exuded arrogance. “Lucky for you, I’m feeling generous.”“Really? Oh my god, thank you Damien!” I squealed like a teenage girl. “It’s such an honor to be worthy of you.”Muffled snickers came from outside the door as his staff eavesdropped. His brows furrowed as I burst into derisive laughter and plopped myself into the seat across from him. “Is that what you expected to hear? You seriously need a psych evaluation.” I simmered down, tone sleeping with ridicule. “You can’t separate fantasy from reality.” “Don’t mock me, Celeste. I’ve missed you during our time apart and I’ve been considering letting you come back home.” Damien leaned on the desk between us.“I’ve nev
No Way to Win Me Back Chapter Thirty Nine
Celeste’s POV“Were all three times a mistake,” Ryan smiled cockily. “Or just the first?”I glared at him. “Just wipe last night from your mind–nothing happened.”“How could I forget the tantalizing way you screamed my name and begged me not to stop?” There was a dark edge to his teasing. “I don’t have amnesia, Celeste.” How could he be so unabashed?“That was momentary insanity and it won’t happen again.” I said firmly.“We both know that’s not true, Celeste.” He smirked. “You can’t resist me.” I scoffed. “Don’t be so full of yourself, Ryan.”“Then why’d you kiss me?” Something playful and dangerous glinted in his eyes. Mortification filled me as I wondered the same damn thing.What had come over me?“The power went out. I was scared.” I shrugged. “It was a manifestation of panic.”Ryan stood, our improvised blanket falling away–he wasn’t wearing a lick of clothing. The darkness last night didn’t do this walking Greek god any justice. He was playing dirty.I turned around before
