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
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.
I woke up to the soft glow of dawn, the clock blinking 5 AM, my usual time to rise. My brown hair was a tangled mess, and I could feel my glasses slipping down my nose as I stretched. It was time to start my day, even if I felt like a sleep-deprived zombie.As I stumbled out of bed, I tripped over Mr. Whiskers, who was sprawled out like he owned the place. I couldn’t help but giggle as I scooped him up, cradling him against my chest. “You little scamp,” I whispered, pressing a kiss to his furry head. “You’re the real reason I’m up so early, aren’t you?”But as I cradled him, a familiar ache tugged at my heart. Memories I tried so hard to forget crept in, uninvited. Five years had passed since I handed him those divorce papers, and yet the pain felt fresh. I could still see his detached expression as he signed, the coldness in his eyes cutting deeper than I ever imagined.I had loved him completely, but now all I saw was darkness—his obsession with work and that woman, Victoria. She wa
Mia and Alex quickly gathered their things, and the excitement in the air was palpable. “I can’t believe we’re finally going out!” I said, a smile spreading across my face.As we stepped outside, the cool night air hit us, invigorating and full of promise. We hopped into Alex’s car, and he cranked up the music, filling the space with upbeat tracks that matched our energy.“Where are we going?” I asked, glancing at Mia, who was scrolling through her phone.“I found this place called The Pulse. It’s supposed to be incredible, and they have a great dance floor!” she replied, her eyes sparkling.“Sounds perfect!” I said, feeling the anticipation build.When we arrived, the club was already buzzing with people. The lights pulsed in time with the music, and I could feel the energy radiating from the crowd. We made our way inside, and I immediately felt the weight of the week lift off my shoulders.Mia led the way to the bar, ordering us drinks while Alex and I chatted about the night. “I st
I woke up, my eyes blinking at an unfamiliar ceiling. Panic surged through me as I tried to remember where I was and how I got there. My head throbbed, and my mouth felt like sandpaper. I attempted to sit up, but dizziness hit me hard, forcing me back down.Then I realized I was completely naked. My heart raced as I threw off the covers, frantically searching for my clothes. That’s when I saw him—a stranger lying next to me. His face was chiseled, his dark hair unfamiliar. My mind went blank.I didn’t want to think about who he was or what had happened. I just needed to get out of there. My eyes darted around the room, taking in the opulence and the huge windows. I spotted my purse on the nightstand and snatched it up, digging for my phone. It was dead, and I cursed under my breath.Without thinking, I grabbed my purse and bolted from the room, not stopping until I was outside the mansion. I flagged down a taxi, my heart pounding as I gave the driver my address, still reeling from the
Two months have passed since that night, and I’ve been completely absorbed in growing my company with Donna by my side. She’s been a lifesaver, expertly managing my chaotic schedule and ensuring everything stays on track. .But as we were pouring over the latest project details, trying to partner with Jocelynn & Harvey’s a reputable brand, a sudden wave of weakness washed over me. “Rachel, are you okay?” Donna asked, her voice laced with concern as she leaned closer, searching my eyes for answers.I shook my head, feeling disoriented. “I don’t know. I just feel… weak.”“Weak how? Like you’re coming down with something?” she pressed, her brow furrowed.“Yeah, maybe. I’ve been so stressed lately. I thought it was just fatigue,” I admitted, “You need to take a break. We can pause this for today,” she said, her tone firm yet caring.“No, I can’t. We have deadlines, and I don’t want to fall behind,” I replied, forcing a smile “Your health comes first, Rachel. Let’s reschedule and focus
After six intense years, I have transformed my company into a formidable competitor in the market and I can proudly say I have poured my heart and soul into this journey and I… my trail of thought was cut short when Donna barged into my office like she was on a mission from the fashion gods. “Rachel! You won’t believe this!”I barely looked up, squinting at the numbers. “Did you finally figure out how to use the coffee machine? Because I’m this close to hiring a barista.”“No! Even better! Mavericks & Co wants to partner with us!”My head shot up, my heart racing. “Mavericks? The ruthless empire of Ethan Grey? What do they want with us?” I couldn’t help but picture Ethan in that dark suit, with his piercing eyes and that cocky smile that made my stomach flip—mostly in a bad way.Donna shrugged, practically bouncing on her heels. “They’re looking for brands that share their uniqueness. They want an interview with the CEO of Elegance & Style!”“Great,” I said, rolling my eyes. “I can al
The next few weeks passed in a whirlwind of meetings and brainstorming sessions. Ethan and I interacted daily, and each encounter left me exhilarated yet anxious, with the knowledge of my secret lingering just beneath the surface. One afternoon, as we reviewed design concepts in his office, I felt the tension building. “Rachel, these sketches are... disappointing,” Ethan said, barely masking his disdain as he tossed one aside. “You can do better than this.” I blinked, taken aback. “Disappointing? I thought we agreed on a bold approach. These designs are fresh and innovative.” “Fresh? They’re just a rehash of trends. You’re playing it safe,” he snapped, leaning back in his chair, arms crossed. “If you want to compete at this level, you need to push boundaries, not reinforce them.” I clenched my jaw, feeling anger flare. “Excuse me? I put a lot of work into these designs. Just because they don’t fit your narrow vision doesn’t make them rubbish.” “Don’t take it personally,” he
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