Stella's povI felt the warmth of soft kisses trailing along my neck, sending shivers down my spine. The gentle caresses ignited a fire within me, and I couldn't help but moan softly. As the kisses grew more fervent, the world around me faded, leaving only the intoxicating sensation of passion in its wake.My heart felt like it was pounding out of my chest as we laid in bed together. I could barely breathe, thinking Adrian was about to tear my clothes off.But he surprised me when he flashed the most disarming smile and slowly traced a finger from my ankle up to my thigh, teasing me with soft little strokes, getting closer and closer to where I desperately needed him."I need you to tell me that this is what you want," he said, holding me captive with his stormy silver eyes.Nodding my head, and anxiously licking my lips, that had suddenly gone dry, "Yes," I told him. "I really want this with you." And I honestly did. Though it seemed a little crazy, even to me, because I don't think I
Entering Adrian's boardroom felt like stepping into a world of corporate elegance. The room exuded an air of power and sophistication, with its sleek design and polished surfaces. I marveled at the grandeur of the space, realizing that this was where significant business decisions took shape.Adrian had asked me to accompany him, providing a glimpse into the professional side of his life. It was a stark contrast to the intimate moments we had shared, making it easier to momentarily push aside the memory of the morning's unexpected closeness.The massive table at the center of the room caught my attention, the sleek surface seemingly ready to host crucial discussions and strategic planning.The high-backed leather chairs surrounding it added an aura of authority, and I couldn't help but feel a twinge of excitement being present in such a prestigious setting.My gaze wandered to the large windows offering a breathtaking view of the city skyline. It was a reminder that the decisions made
As the lady handed me my freshly minted passport from the passport agency, I felt a surge of gratitude and mumbled a sincere "Thank you." with a dreamy inflection in my voice, I remarked, "I can't believe you're going to France."The excitement and disbelief mirrored my own sentiments as the prospect of the upcoming trip began to sink in. France, a place I had only dreamed of visiting, now lay within the pages of this small, official booklet. It was a surreal moment.Adrian had spared me a few minutes to get the process done. Thankfully because of his connections I was able to get through in mere minutes. Everything was upfront which made the process a lot easier.Lyra's eyes sparkled with mischief as she suggested, "Why not set me up with Mr. Lockwood, the handsome brother?"I chuckled, dismissing the idea, "We're not that close. I only work for Mr. Lockwood. Nothing more." I assured her.My thoughts drifting to the secret affair I had stumbled upon between Sebastian and Gabriella. H
Time seemed to freeze as a mixture of surprise and vulnerability consumed me. Sebastian's kiss was demanding, leaving me breathless and bewildered.I tried to pull away, but his hold tightened, making escape impossible. My attempts to speak were met with a soft laughter from him, amplifying my sense of helplessness.In that moment, the room blurred, and all that remained was the intensity of the kiss and the conflicting emotions swirling within me—shyness, apprehension, and a realization that this encounter would leave an indelible mark on the canvas of my memories.With one hard push I managed to push Sebastian away before quickly rushing outside the guestroom so he could not grab a hold of me once again.I wiped my lips, there was no denying Sebastian was a very good kisser, but his disgusting behavior was not sitting well with me. How could he be sleeping with his brother's girlfriend and then kiss me? How awful can he be!His kiss was somewhat different from the one who took my vi
The sight of Adrian's sleek private jet leaves me momentarily speechless, my eyes widening in awe as we approach in his car. The luxurious exterior and the sheer opulence of the aircraft evoke a sense of excitement, and the anticipation of a trip to France with my boss adds an extra layer of thrill to the experience."Impressed?" His voice broke through my excitement."Everyday." I say, from his magnificent house to his magnificent car, to his magnificent jet, all leaving me stunned at how rich he was.Memories from yesterday's intimate encounter in the bathroom resurface, creating a subtle undercurrent beneath the excitement.The steam-filled room, the sensation of his bare skin against mine, the vulnerability of that shared moment—each detail replays in my mind. The professional setting of the impending business trip collides with the lingering intimacy, leaving me in a state of subtle disarray.The hum of the car engine becomes a backdrop to my contemplation, and I steal a glance a
Waking from a peaceful slumber, I'm momentarily disoriented until I realize there are strong arms wrapped securely around my waist.The familiarity of the cologne that envelops me instantly registers, and I know without a doubt that I'm in Adrian's arms. The realization brings a mix of surprise and comfort.As the instinct to jump out of bed kicks in, the powerful allure of his cologne grips me, and for a moment, I pause. It dawns on me that Adrian must be asleep, providing an unexpected source of warmth and comfort.The idea of slipping away crosses my mind, but the force to stay in my boss's strong arms is strangely compelling. In this moment, it feels right, and the notion of disturbing his peaceful sleep becomes a secondary concern.Blushing shyly, I become aware that once again, Adrian is behind me. The closeness and proximity trigger a flurry of thoughts, and I wonder if he's typically this touchy and affectionate with others. Before I can delve further into my contemplation, th
Lyra's povI couldn't contain the excitement bubbling within me as I stepped into the renowned club, a place with a reputation that preceded itself. This wasn't just any strip club; it was the very one where Stella, my dear friend, had lost her virginity.The allure of this establishment, coupled with the fact that it was owned by Stella's billionaire boss, hinted at a audience that was undoubtedly high-end and influential.The anticipation of my first night as a stripper at this exclusive venue fueled my enthusiasm. I sauntered through the dimly lit entrance, taking in the sultry ambiance that echoed with the throb of distant music.The air was charged with an intoxicating blend of excitement and possibility, and I couldn't help but revel in the prospect of what the night held.The dressing room, adorned with mirrors, females and adorned with a touch of glamour, became my haven as I prepared for the performance ahead.In the lively dressing room, snippets of conversations floated thr
Returning home with Adrian after a dinner with one of his clients, a wave of fatigue washed over me. The evening had been filled with discussions, negotiations, and the constant need to be on my professional game. Now, the comfort of being back in my room offered a welcome reprieve.I entered the familiar room; a sigh escaped my lips. The day had been long, but the sanctuary of my room provided a sense of solace.Despite the weariness, a subtle satisfaction lingered. The dinner had been successful, and I could sense Adrian's appreciation for the effort I had put into being professional.I prepared to unwind and leave the formalities of the night behind. A quiet sense of contentment settled over me.In the intimate space of my room, the fatigue of the day lingered. I moved to shed the remnants of formality. The stilettos came off first, the click echoing in the room as a sigh of relief escaped my lips. Next, I pulled my hair down, the cascade of strands feeling like a small act of libe
Stella's Pov.I paced nervously outside the hospital room, my hands fidgeting with the hem of my jacket as the sounds of Gabriella’s labor echoed through the closed door. Adrian had gone in, of course. She’d asked for him to be there, to hold her hand while she brought their baby into the world. I bit the inside of my cheek, my mind racing. Gabriella had to have planned this. There’s no way she didn’t—having the baby now, just before Adrian and I were supposed to leave for the trip. She was always doing something to keep us apart.Such a bitch.I tried to shake off the thought, but it lingered, settling in like a bitter taste I couldn’t get rid of. I wanted to hate her for it. But more than anything, I hated how powerless I felt standing out here, waiting. Adrian’s going to be a father.A father.Pride swelled in my chest. I was happy for him&mdash
Sebastian's pov.I sat inside the room, checking my watch for the hundredth time. Any minute now, he'd arrive. Adrian's time had finally run out, and the Lockwood empire was about to change hands.A smirk played on my lips as I thought about Adrian, off on his business trip with Stella. How convenient. When he returns, he'll walk right into the shock of his life. Everything he thinks he owns will now be mine.My mind wandered to Gabriella, heavily pregnant with what Adrian believes is his child. Oh, brother, if only you knew. Soon, she'll be handing that baby over to me instead.I've always been jealous of my big brother, something that I'd never like to admit. How he'd always manage to be the favorite. Outperform m
I'm nestled comfortably in bed, propped up against a mountain of pillows, with Adrian's strong arm wrapped around me. The scent of freshly brewed coffee and pastries fills the air, mingling with Adrian's cologne."Open up," Adrian says softly, holding a forkful of fluffy scrambled eggs to my lips. I oblige, savoring the taste and the intimacy of the moment.It's been four days since we arrived for this "business trip," though we've spent more time in this room than anywhere else. I can't help but smile, thinking about how attentive and loving Adrian has been. It's almost easy to forget the complications waiting for us back home."What's that smile for?" Adrian asks, his eyes twinkling with amusement.I lean into him, resting my head on his shoulder. "Just thinking about how perfect this is. How perfect you've been."Adrian kisses the top of my head. "You deserve to be pampered, my love. The three of you do," he adds, his free hand gently caressing my swollen belly.As if on cue, I fee
Gabriella's povI pace the length of my room, fury coursing through my veins. How dare he? How dare Adrian go on a two-week business trip with that homewrecker Stella while I'm seven months pregnant with his child? Our child. The audacity of it all makes me want to scream.My hand absently rubs my swollen belly as I try to calm myself. This stress can't be good for the baby, but I can't help it. Things cannot go on like this. I need to do something, and fast."Damn you, Sebastian," I mutter under my breath. His incompetence is infuriating. Instead of getting rid of Stella like he was supposed to, all he managed to do was come up with some half-baked scheme about a fake father.Useless. I should have known better tha
Stella's povI stir awake, my eyes fluttering open to the soft afternoon light filtering through the curtains. The first thing I see is Adrian's face, his silver eyes watching me with a tender expression that makes my heart skip a beat."Good afternoon, sleeping beauty," he murmurs, reaching out to brush a strand of hair from my face.I smile, nestling closer to him. "How long have you been awake?""Long enough to count every freckle on your nose," he teases, leaning in to place a soft kiss on the tip of my nose.I giggle, wrapping my arms around his neck and pulling him closer. Our lips meet in a gentle, lingering kiss that sends warmth spreading through my en
I watch Stella sleeping peacefully in my lap, I'm struck by a pang of guilt. I've been neglecting her, allowing Gabriella's manipulative tactics to come between us.When Stella uttered those horrifying words - that our relationship was over - it was like a bucket of cold water to the face. I knew then that I couldn't let her walk out of my life. Not without a fight. This trip to Italy is my chance to make things right.Two weeks to spoil her, to give her my undivided attention, to remind her how much she means to me. As we approach the airport, I gently wake her."We're here, baby girl," I murmur, brushing a strand of hair from her face.Her eyes flutter open, confusion giving way to excitement as she remembers where we're going. I settle into my wheelchair as we board my private jet, unable to take my eyes off her as she marvels at the luxurious interior."Wait," she stops before staring at me wide eye. "What about Lyra, what if they try to harm her while we're away?" She asks."Ther
Gabriella's face cycles through a range of emotions - shock, hurt, anger, and finally, a calculated blankness. Mark and Daisy exchange worried glances, clearly as taken aback as the rest of us.As for me, I'm frozen in place, my mind racing. A two-week trip to Italy? With Adrian? Away from all of this drama? It seems too good to be true.But as I catch Adrian's eye across the room, I see a glimmer of something - determination, perhaps? Or is it a promise of things to come?The shock of Adrian's announcement hangs in the air for a moment before Gabriella snaps out of her stupor. Her voice trembles with a mix of anger and desperation as she turns to Adrian."But I'm seven months pregnant, going on eight months!" she exclaims. "How am I supposed to cope alone?"Before Adrian can respond, Daisy steps forward, her voice calm and reassuring with a smile. "Mark and I will take very good care of you, Gabriella. You don't need to worry."Gabriella, however, isn't satisfied. Her next words make
As we pull up to the mansion, I can't help but blush, thinking about what transpired in that hospital room. The thrill of our encounter still lingers, but a part of me can't believe we actually did that.Adrian squeezes my hand reassuringly as we enter the foyer, but the moment is quickly shattered. Gabriella appears, practically launching herself at Adrian. She plants a kiss on his cheek, and I have to fight the urge to pull her away.But Gabriella's overzealous greeting isn't what catches my attention. The entire place is decorated lavishly - flowers, ribbons, and what looks like the setup for an elaborate celebration. In the background, I spot Mark and Daisy, their postures tense and uncomfortable.A sense of dread washes over me. What is this witch up to now?Gabriella turns to Adrian, her voice sickly sweet. "Your bed was so cold without you next to me this morning, darling and I've been calling you all day, where have you been baby?""I've been busy with work," Adrian lies.I gr
Adrian's eyes darken with intensity as he pulls me closer, his hands roaming over my back, sending shivers down my spine. The heat radiating off his body is almost evident.He leans in, his lips brushing against my neck, planting soft, lingering kisses that make my breath hitch. My hands find their way under his shirt, feeling the taut muscles of his abdomen. I push the fabric up, needing to feel more of his skin against mine.Adrian quickly discards his shirt, and I take a moment to admire the sight before me. He’s beautiful, every inch of him. His eyes never leave mine as he reaches for the buttons of my blouse, his fingers deft and sure. The fabric falls away, and his hands are on me again, caressing, exploring.“God, I’ve missed this,” he growls against my ear, his voice rough with desire. He cups my breast, his thumb brushing over my nipple through the thin lace of my bra, sending a jolt of pleasure straight to my core.I moan softly, arching into his touch. “Adrian...”His mouth