CASINOElena's POV The casino was alive, lights flashing and music blaring so loud it was nearly impossible to think. I pushed my way through the crowd alongside my cousin, who loved gambling here. We found a quieter spot to sit and watch, his focus already on the tables where men were staking serious money. I sipped my drink, content to let him enjoy his games. Then, a familiar voice cut through the noise, casual yet taunting. “Hey man, seems like you’ve won a lot here,” the voice said. “Let me give you the shock of your life—mind if I join you?” I glanced up, and there was Lucas, strolling in with Aurora holding hands. The sight of the two of them together didn’t surprise me, but the smug looks on their faces did. They looked like they were here to flaunt something, or someone. Guess they are married now.Lucas’s gaze landed on me, and a smirk twisted his lips. “Well, well, Elena! What a surprise. I’m amazed someone like you could afford a place like this.” Aurora’s mocking laug
Jason's POVAs the elevator doors slid shut, I couldn't help but smile at Elena. She’d agreed to dinner, and I wanted to make it something special. "I didn’t know you’d be on board so soon. How’s everything going?" she asked with that charming smile of hers, the kind that made it hard to look away."So far, so good. And now, even better. I wanted to thank you for the job," I replied, trying to keep my tone casual. "Maybe I could treat you to dinner tonight?"Elena chuckled softly. "Oh, I barely did anything—you earned that for yourself.""Still, I wouldn’t have had the opportunity without your help. C'mon, I know a great place. I think you’ll love it." I kept my voice light, but I hoped she’d sense how much I meant it.She hesitated, then giggled. "O…okay, but just so we’re clear, this is just returning the favor. I owe you nothing."I laughed as we reached the lobby, stepping out of the elevator. "See you after work," I said, waving, and she waved back, a hint of warmth in her eyes.
Aurora's POVAs Lucas stormed into the sitting room, the anger was practically radiating off him. His jaw was clenched, and he barely glanced at me before dropping onto the sofa. The silence between us was tense, and I could feel his irritation simmering, aimed at someone else who is, Elena.“Lucas, are you still angry at… Elena?” I asked softly, trying to ease into the conversation, my voice gentle.His gaze flickered over to me, but he shook his head. “Get some rest, Aurora. We’ll talk tomorrow.” His words were short, clipped, and I could tell he was trying to hold back.I walked a little closer, watching him carefully. “I get it—you only just divorced her, and now you’ve already seen her with two different men. It’s hard, isn’t it?” I paused, adding softly, “But, Lucas… Elena never truly loved you.”Lucas looked at me, brow furrowing, taken aback. “What are you saying, Aurora?”I held his gaze, steeling myself. “She only cared about your money,” I said, my hand drifting to his thig
Elena's POVI parked my car in the hospital lot, I fixed my transparent eye glasses as I stepped out. This wasn't where I expected to be today, but something in Lucas’s voice—desperation mixed with guilt—had pushed me here. I had to uncover Aurora's dirty secret.I walked briskly into the hospital lobby, forcing myself to remain calm and focused.I walked to one of the nurse in the outpatient department “Hi, where is Miss Aurora’s room?” I asked politely.The nurse glanced at her computer. “Room 100.”“Thank you,” I nodded and headed down the hallway, keeping my steps purposeful. When I reached Room 100, I took a deep breath before pushing the door open.Inside, Lucas was sitting at Aurora's bedside, his hand wrapped around hers. As usual! His shoulders were hunched, his face filled with happiness as he saw me. Dr. Young was standing beside him, noting some things down on Aurora's hospital folder with a professionally detached expression.“Elena! You’re here,” Lucas exclaimed, standin
Elena's POVI parked my car and made my way to the office, hoping for a smooth day. But as soon as I opened the door, there was Samantha, already sitting at my desk with a knowing grin. She was the only one who ever managed to get here before me, and she seemed particularly amused this morning.“Morning, sunshine,” Samantha greeted, a playful glint in her eyes.“Good morning to you too,” I replied, smiling as I noticed a familiar coffee cup on my desk. A little note was stuck to the side: *“Have an amazing day, from Jason.”* I felt warmth rise in my cheeks. Samantha, of course, noticed.“Oh? Jason again? He leaves you coffee every single morning. Think it’s time to call him your ‘little boyfriend,’ don’t you?” She chuckled, folding her arms with a smug look.“Oh, stop. It’s not like that. He leaves you coffee sometimes, too!” I said, brushing it off, even though a small smile crept onto my face.“Maybe, but where’s my *sweet little note?*” Samantha teased, tapping the cup. “The man is
Elena's POVThe day had finally arrived, and I could feel my pulse racing as I took in the sight around me. The entire mansion felt transformed, with every corner draped in elegance. Strings of warm lights and grand chandeliers gave the room a soft, almost dreamlike glow, and the fragrance of fresh roses mingled with the faint notes of jazz floating through the air.I couldn’t deny it—it was beautiful. Perfect, even. But there was a heaviness inside me, a feeling I couldn’t shake, as if something unexpected was waiting just around the corner.Samantha was at my side, as usual, fussing over my hair and adding the finishing touches to my makeup."Look at you!" she beamed, stepping back to admire her work. "You’re stunning, Elena. I swear, your fiancé is going to be head over heels the moment he sees you." She gave me a playful nudge, and I had to laugh despite my nervousness."Well," she continued with a smirk, "I just hope you’re not missing your little boyfriend—Jason, isn’t it? He’s
Elena’s POVMy heart pounded as I tore through the hall, my ball gown dragging behind me, sweeping the floor. I could hear the soft chime of my car keys jingling in my hand, spurring me forward as I clutched my gown, lifting it to clear the way. My breaths was shallow and quick, I fought an attempt to calm the anger and betrayal storming through me. I had to get out of here—away from him, away from the lies, away from everything.“Elena! Wait! Please, just listen!” Jason’s voice echoed down the empty corridor, desperation heavy in his tone. But I ignored him. Running faster.I finally reached my car, phewww! Fumbling, I pressed the unlock button, the vehicle’s lights blinking in response. But before I could escape, his hand closed around my wrist, halting me just inches from the door. His touch, which was usually warm and comforting, felt like iron now— it feels different.“Elena, please,” Jason pleaded, his gray eyes, usually filled with mystery and allure, now flashing with guilt a
Elena's POVThe morning sunlight streaming through the glass walls of the Brooks Group headquarters did little to lift my spirits. Today was monumental—a board meeting with the top executives, the very people who would decide if I was worthy of the CEO title. I should’ve felt excited, confident, even triumphant. But after last night’s revelations about Jason, my heart was heavy with confusion and betrayal.As I entered the boardroom, the faces around the table greeted me with expectant smiles. They were all counting on me, on the Brooks name. I was the heir to this company, yet at that moment, I felt like an outsider. I forced myself to focus, nodding along as the meeting began, playing with my fingers but my mind kept drifting back to Jason—Jason Campbell, or Edward, or whoever he truly was. I couldn’t shake the feeling of betrayal, the way he’d deceived me with a false identity. But this was no time for personal emotions. I tried to regain control, mentally berating myself to stay