Ethan's POV - Club MirageI don't usually do this, but tonight something was different. It’s not like I ever needed to put myself out there—women came to me. That’s the way it’s always been. I’m Ethan Grey, after all. I don’t need to chase. They know what I bring to the table, and if they’re smart, they come to me. Simple as that.So when I saw her, I didn’t make a move right away. Nah. I stayed put, like I always do. She was across the dance floor, lit by the neon lights, her figure moving with that kind of grace that turned heads. No rush. Let her come to me.But she didn’t.It was like I wasn’t even there. She was surrounded by other guys, flirting, laughing. Every time she caught my gaze, she’d turn away with that damn playful little smirk like she knew exactly what she was doing. It wasn’t that she didn’t notice me—it was that she was playing the game. And, like always, I hate being played.Liam and Grayson were beside me, making small talk, but I wasn’t listening. My eyes were o
ETHAN'S POV:I wasn’t used to feeling this... restless. But the closer I got to her, the more it gnawed at me. Something about the way she moved—calm, cool, like she knew exactly how to make me wait for her. She wasn’t the kind of girl who needed to rush. She was making me chase her, which, to be honest, I hadn’t planned on.But fuck, I liked it.Her steps were measured, deliberate, like she was savoring the space between us. Each click of her heels against the stairs was like a countdown. I could hear her breathing, even if it wasn’t heavy. And I wondered—just for a second—if she was feeling the same way I was.But I wasn’t about to ask. That wasn’t how I played.We reached the top of the stairs, and she stopped right before turning the corner, just long enough for me to catch up. The hallway stretched out in front of us, dimly lit, the air thick with something I couldn’t quite put my finger on.She turned toward me, her eyes meeting mine. No words. Just that look. The kind of look t
Ethan’s POV.I wake up with the weight of a headache slamming through my skull. It’s the kind of pain that feels like someone’s taking a sledgehammer to the inside of my head, but I don’t bother complaining. It’s nothing new. I get up, slowly—my eyes flicker to the mess of sheets beside me. A faint trace of her perfume still lingers in the air, mixing with the sharp tang of whiskey. I’m not sure why, but it’s the first thing I notice.The night with her wasn’t planned, but then again, nothing I do ever is. The problem is... I can still smell her. Her scent is all over me, in the air, in the corners of the room, like a ghost that won’t leave. And God help me, I don’t hate it.I drag myself to the bathroom, splash some water on my face, and stare at my reflection. A man who’s got everything, except maybe a clue about why I’m still thinking about her. My hand runs through my hair, slicking it back. Gotta look sharp today. I can’t let some damn woman distract me.I pull open the closet, s
Ethan's POV: Ethan’s DilemmaI stare at my father for a long moment, the words hanging in the air like smoke. He’s calm, as always—too damn calm for my liking. The old man has this way of making everything seem like it’s already set in stone, like I don’t even get a say. He’s the one who built the empire, who carved out a legacy that I’m supposed to carry on, but sometimes I wonder if I’m just the heir to his plans, not a man in my own right.“Who is she?” I ask, my voice low, not bothering to hide the frustration I can’t quite keep down.He leans back in his chair as if he's been waiting for me to ask that question. Of course he has. “Her name is Sophia Greenwood.” He says it like it’s supposed to mean something to me.Sophia Greenwood. I’ve heard the name. Her father’s got his fingers in a lot of pies—real estate, tech startups, and a few other things I won’t get into, but he is ranked Number one (1), in the world and I’m guessing that’s why my father wants to partner with him, for
As I stepped into Ethan's office, I couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and nervousness about our upcoming trip to Italy. Earlier that morning, I had shared the thrilling news with my closest friends, Mia and Alex, about the monumental project that would take me abroad. "I'm telling you, guys, this is a game-changer for my company," I explained over coffee. "We're on the cusp of going global. Our brand will be recognized internationally, and our reach will expand exponentially." Mia's eyes sparkled with amusement. "I hope you won't forget about us little people when you're a global mogul." I chuckled, feeling grateful for their unwavering support. "Of course not, Mia. You'll always be my go-to crew." Alex, ever the practical one, asked, "So, how long will you be away?" I hesitated, considering the timeline Ethan and I had discussed. "Not too long, I promise. I'll be back before you know it." Mia and Alex exchanged a knowing glance, and I could sense their quiet pride in m
By the time we arrived at the De’Lanor Hotel, the streets of the small Italian town were bathed in the soft glow of midnight. The boutique hotel was as elegant as I had imagined, its classic façade adorned with ivy and softly lit lanterns. Ethan and I walked into the sumptuous lobby together, both feeling quite weary after the arduous trip.The receptionist smiled at us with an exhausted but gracious mouth. "Good evening. Welcome to De’Lanor Hotel. May I have your name, please?"Ethan Gray," he answered (his tone steady into the night of the hour)," he said.The receptionist entered into her computer and then frowned a little. "Ah, yes. We have your reservation here, Mr. Gray However..."Ethan’s brows furrowed. "However?"She glanced up, a hint of embarrassment on her face. "It seems there was an error in the booking. We only have one room reserved under your name.""What?" Ethan and I said in unison, our voices rising slightly"I deeply apologize for the inconvenience," she continued
lThe morning breeze drifted through the hotel’s dining terrace, carrying the scent of fresh pastries and espresso. Rachel and Ethan sat at a table overlooking a charming courtyard, where vines climbed the walls and birds chirped softly. It was serene, far from the chaos of the previous night but Rachel’s mind was already racing with business ideas. "Alright," Rachel said, pulling out her tablet and stylus. "We can use this time to finalize the presentation. I also want to review the designs again and.." Ethan held up a hand, cutting her off mid-sentence. "Rachel," he said firmly, "we’re not diving into work today." She blinked, surprised. "What do you mean? This is why we’re here, Ethan. We have so much to prepare for " Ethan leaned back in his chair, sipping his coffee leisurely. "And we will. But first, we’re taking three days to enjoy Italy before the madness begins." Rachel frowned, clearly taken aback. "Three days? Ethan, we don’t have time for a vacation!" “We do,"
Ethan slammed the door of their hotel room behind him. He tossed his phone on the table and paced the room. Rachel pulled out her laptop, her fingers trembling as she opened the video call app. I quickly sent out a text message. "We need everyone on this call. Now," she said, her voice sharp. ‘Who would have done thatEthan stopped pacing and leaned against the wall. "Do you think it’s someone on the team? That doesn’t sit right with me, Rachel." Rachel didn’t look up. "What else could it be? Designs don’t leak themselves, Ethan, especially when it's your team." The laptop screen blinked to life as Danny's face appeared, her expression already filled with concern. "What’s going on?" "Someone leaked our designs," Rachel said bluntly. Danny gasped. "What? How is that even possible?" "That’s what we’re trying to figure out," Ethan cut in. "Could it have been a hack? Or maybe someone accidentally forwarded something?" Liam joined the call next, his face groggy. "It’s three
Sophia POV :The morning sunlight filtered through the tiny curtains of my penthouse, casting a warm glow over the pristine living room. I sat on the velvet chaise, sipping my black coffee, flipping absentmindedly through a glossy fashion magazine. The faint noise of the TV in the background created a nostalgic background hum of comfort.“…Ethan Gray and Rachel Thompson spotted together again…”The phrases cut through the air like a razor. I turned to the TV, my eyes narrowing as images of Ethan and Rachel walking out of a grand event played on the screen. Paparazzi flashes reflected in their faces as Ethan led Rachel toward a car waiting for them and his hand rested as a shield on the small of her back.Rachel smiled at something he said, her expression warm, almost glowing. Ethan’s gaze lingered on her for a moment longer than it should have.My grip on the coffee mug tightened.They looked snug, didn't they?, chirped, the joyful voice of the entertainment broke on the air went on.
Rachel POV:I got the text from Ethan about a dinner party, and, of course, I am a huge fan of staying out of the spotlight and events, where we (more like me) dont like to socialise with the Rich and Powerful.I quickly scanned the email he sent to him:“Hi Rachel good morning, congratulations on our collaboration and also this is a reminder that I forgot to tell you yesterday that we are having a Media gathering to spread more visibility to the designs. Having a small party at Manor Hotel. Ensure you come. Thank you” I sent him a text message with a mention of coming later after I was through…The grand ballroom was full, and the air was heavy with expectation. Crystal chandeliers dotted the high ceilings overhead, showering the masses in golden light. Businessmen, investors, and journalists filled the space, all on the edge of the news of the official launch of Mavericks & Co Couture.Ethan stood beside me at the entrance, looking every bit the charismatic CEO in his tailored bla
RachelThe sound of shuffling papers filled the conference room as Ethan slid the final draft of the contract across the table. His sleeves were rolled up, and his sharp navy suit hinted at the kind of effortless confidence he exuded.“This is it, he said, his voice steady, yet something in his tone carried weight. If we just sign here, we are finally in collaboration, ” said LHP Junior Fernandez’s, Mavericks &Co Lawyer.I nodded, gripping the pen a little too tightly. Who would've thought we'd be standing here? I'm in shock," I said, doing my best to ignore the pile of papers in front of me and not the way the guy's eyes, like blue glass that vibrated, kept wandering into my skin. “It feels surreal.”Ethan relaxed in his chair, his lips turning into a partial smile. “Surreal, maybe, but we’ve earned this. You’ve earned this.”Icing over the flutter in my chest, I looked over at the contract. “Let’s get it done, then. I scribbled my name on the dotted line, feeling a mix of triumph an
There was something about the atmosphere in Ethan's office that was peculiar as Rachel approached. His piercing blue eyes were focused on his laptop screen, but the moment she entered, his gaze softened. Rachel, in a fitted pencil skirt and an emerald-toned blouse that displayed her hazel eyes, stood nervously by the entrance.“You wanted to see me? she asked, her voice steady, masking her unease.Ethan threw back in his chair and gave her the gesture to sit down. “Yes, Rachel. We are still finalizing plans for the launch photoshoot of Mavericks & Co Couture. I’ve booked a top-tier studio for tomorrow.”A photoshoot? Rachel raised an eyebrow, her “business as usual” appearance unshakable.“Yes,” Ethan said, his tone firm but gentle. “This campaign needs us to lead by example. As co-creators of this project, we’ll be part of the shoot. Think of it as showcasing the strength of the partnership behind this brand.Rachel hesitated. The idea of being so publicly tied to Ethan unnerved her.
Rachel stood outside the elegant restaurant, her heart racing. She twirled the bag strap, toying with curiosity about why she felt so worried. It was just a business dinner. Ethan had been clear about wanting to discuss the collaboration between their brands.But the memory of his protective words at the party and the intensity in his eyes kept replaying in her mind. She brought herself back from the edge of a nervous breakdown by adjusting her blazer, going through with it too, determined to bear down the emotions billowing in her chest. This was work, nothing more.The doorman greeted her with a polite nod as she stepped inside. Ethan was already sitting at one of the small tables in the corner. He rose when he saw her, a smile spreading across his face.“Rachel,” he said warmly. “I’m glad you came.”She nodded, her throat suddenly dry. “Of course. I wouldn’t miss it.”He waved her to sit down and pulled out her chair. His gentlemanly behavior was both charming and unsettling. Rache
The playground was alive with the sounds of laughter and joy. Rachel sat on a bench, her gaze never straying far from her triplets, Dante, Damian, and Daniella, who played with uncontainable energy. For once, her mind was at ease. All of it faded, from the mystery of the box, the party gossip, to her work troubles. Here, she could just be Mom.“Dante, no climbing too high! Rachel called her voice a mix of warning and affection.“Okay, Mommy! Dante called back, waving before running off to fetch the ball he had been tossing around.Rachel exhaled and leaned back, enjoying the moment. But the peace was short-lived.Dante’s ball, propelled with more force than intended, went flying across the playground and hit someone square in the chest.“Oof!” came a familiar voice. The man reached out for a moment then recovered and took the ball again.Rachel’s heart froze when she looked up. Ethan.He looked about, searching for the owner of the ball, and came to a complete stop when his eyes met R
The morning began with an unease Rachel couldn’t shake. With a crack of the door she let the fresh air into her flat and her gaze fell on a box standing by the door. It was plain, unmarked, and oddly foreboding.Her brows furrowed as she crouched to retrieve it, tiptoeing it inside. Sitting at her kitchen table, she opened it. As soon as she lifted back the lid, her stomach churned.Inside were photographs, each more unsettling than the last.A picture of her and Ethan during their trip to Italy. One of her triplets playing at the park. Wedding photo with Michael, a memory of a scene which felt now thousands of years distant. Several photographs contained candid images of her, some obviously taken without her consent.As she touched the note between the photos, the notes of her hand trembled. It read:You'll never be able to completely hide who you are," The world will always remember you.Rachel’s heart pounded in her chest. The idea of a person meticulously collecting her life's bel
Rachel walked into the café, her head held high and her emotions firmly in check. She spotted Michael sitting in the corner, his shoulders tense as he stared out the window. For a moment, she almost turned around and left, but then she reminded herself why she was here. This wasn’t about him; it was about putting the past to rest. As she approached, Michael looked up, his expression softening. He rose to his feet, his movements hesitant. “Rachel,” he said, almost pleadingly. “Michael,” she replied curtly, sliding into the seat across from him. “Let’s get straight to the point. What do you want?” Michael sighed, running a hand through his hair. “We need to talk about the kids. I’ve been patient, Rachel, but I can’t stay away any longer. They’re mine, and I deserve to be part of their lives.” Rachel raised an eyebrow, her lips curling into a bitter smile. “Yours? Really, Michael? That’s interesting, considering the last time I checked, you were busy sneaking around with your sec
RachelAs soon as I exited the taxi and entered the office building, I sensed the air of tension. From the lobby, I could also perceive agitated shouting and the sound of a person yelling. My heart sank.What now? I mumbled to myself while I ran for the elevator.As soon as I reached the floor, clamor rose to its peak. A middle-aged woman was seated in the center of the reception room, with several staff trying unsuccessfully to calm her. She was running a piece of fabric in the air as if it were a witness in a courtroom.“You people are thieves! The woman screamed, her voice shrill and furious. Do you think you can come and get away with it? I trusted you, and this is what I got?”“What’s going on here?” I asked, stepping forward. Each and every one of them turned around and gazed at me, relieved and with a look of terror on their face.“Rachel, thank God you’re here,” said Emma, my assistant. “This woman claims we scammed her, but”“I don’t claim anything! the woman interrupted, gla