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Chapter 17: Personal VS Professional Judgement
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2024-11-09 13:48:00Related chapters
The Billionaire's Fake Romance Chapter 18: A Hard Nut To Crack
Evelyn slouches on her living room sofa, a bowl of popcorn and a glass of orange juice by her side while she sees her favorite weekend TV series.After a challenging week of running around with other team members, making sure the Mist project is on track, and then getting involved in a minor accident, a quiet evening alone seems like a good way to rejuvenate her energy before another crazy work week sets in.Her mind would occasionally wander, and she'd find herself imagining the tall, athletic body she'd seen the previous day.She wonders why he hasn't reached out to her. She had been tempted to call him like a thousand times but her ego wouldn't let her make the first move. “Oh boy,” she soliloquies, adjusting her position on the sofa and smiling to herself. “That guy knows how to put a good look together. Such a hottie!” She concludes, shaking her head vigorously as if that will make the image of John fall off her brain.At the end of the series, she heaves and decides to take a
The Billionaire's Fake Romance Chapter 19: Crisis Management Plan
“Hello Rachel, I need your help.” Cordelia speaks into her cell phone immediately her call is connected, her tone firm.“No pleasantries? This is unlike you Cordelia. Is all well? Rachel asks, curiosity etched in her tone.“I am in a tight spot, and I don't know what to do.” “What happened?” Cordelia stands, running her hand through her hair, roughly in frustration. “I told you about the new project we pitched to Wills Corporation for investment, didn't I?” “Yeah, you did. Did the investment fall through?” “Yeah, almost and it's my fault. Alan is out for me because of it. You know how he can get. I just need suggestions on how to go about the whole thing. I really can't think of anything to salvage the situation.” Cordelia explains to her friend and confidant.“Babe, you need to tell me what happened in order for me to help you, okay?” Rachel states, genuinely ready to help her friend.“I'll give you the whole gist when we meet. But the summary is Kingsley Wills decided to invest
The Billionaire's Fake Romance Chapter 20: "Is This A Date?"
Linda walks slowly to the hospital parking lot with an unsteady gait, her feet dragging. Her shoulders slump, and her eyes downcast in evident sadness at the sight she just witnessed.After giving the lunch basket to Fred, she left the rest area to return to her office.But on second thought, she decided to go back and see her crush eating the lunch she gifted him. She reckoned the sight would be fulfilling. She'd keep him company and poke silly jokes while he ate.And the best part is, it will draw them closer.With a mischievous smile, she turned back towards the rest area in time to see him leave the room, holding the lunch basket. He went in the opposite direction from her.Linda stopped, her eyebrows creased in curiosity, wondering where was headed. “That is not the way to his office.” She soliloquies and starts following him from a safe distance.Fred entered the children's ward of the hospital and Linda began to worry If the man planned to eat while working. “His shift is over
The Billionaire's Fake Romance Chapter 21: "Who Is Liam's Father?"
“We will. Thank you.” John replies, nodding at the waitress who takes her leave immediately.“Mmmmm,” Evelyn moans sweetly, savoring the taste of the rich spirit in her mouth.John smiles, amused by the look on her perfect oval face. “Tastes good, yeah?” “Of course, and the place looks great as well. Are you a regular here?” She asks, squinting her eyes in curiosity.“No, I am not, but I have been here once, and as you say, it's a great place,” John replies, looking around and nodding in satisfaction. “So, I figured it would suit a great young lady like yourself.” He concludes, looking at her squarely.“Oh, you do know how to sweet talk a lady, don't you?” Evelyn remarks, looking away shyly and patting her face with the back of her hand to hide her blush. Her eyes sparkle with laughter as she looks at him, her cheeks flushing. She continues, “You're making me blush,” in a voice that is almost inaudible above a whisper.John laughs, crinkling the corners of his eyes. He leans slightl
The Billionaire's Fake Romance Chapter 22: Shadows Of The Past
Louisa's expression darkens, her guard rising. Her eyes narrows and her brows crease with surprise. She refuses to speak for a few seconds. When she finds her voice, it sounds hoarse even to her ears. “ I do not entertain personal questions on a business visit, Mr Wills,” she replies.“How about we speak on the business at hand?” She asks, instinctively avoiding the question.It is just her luck that the very issue that she is most afraid of is exactly why Kingsley has called her in, this morning.She should have suspected this when she got his summon. There isn't any new development about Mist that would need discussion or deliberation on.“But the most professional Miss Emerson couldn't ignore the summon of her investor,” she mutters sarcastically in her mind, mentally rolling her eyes.She came running here like a dutiful servant only to be placed on a hot seat.So, he had his suspicions about Liam the other day. No wonder he looks ready to pounce.But try as he can, she is not r
The Billionaire's Fake Romance Chapter 23: A Threat To Her Secret
Louisa's eyes open in surprise and her palm becomes sweaty as she grips the phone tightly. “Who is this?” She queries.“You know exactly who this is, Louisa.” The low deep voice on the other end responds confidently, taking her by surprise.Louisa's heart races as she recognizes Kingsley's voice.“This guy never gives up, does he?” She asks herself inwardly and takes a deep breath to calm her racing heart.“I have nothing to hide, Mr Wills. If there's something else I can help you with, please……..” Louisa starts saying, but she suddenly hears a beep, which signals that Kingsley has dropped the call, cutting her off. She breathes out loudly, ruffles her hair in frustration, and storms out of her office angrily.“When is he going to run out of ways of getting on her nerves? Really? Why bother calling if he was going to cut her off like that?” Louisa keeps muttering to herself as she walks. She glances at the phone in her left hand and angrily shuts it down in case he decides to call h
The Billionaire's Fake Romance Chapter 24: A Lesson In Manners
Louisa quickly makes her way to CEO Ashby's office, after excusing herself from Evelyn. She wonders what prompted the sudden summons.With her heels clicking on the glossy floor, Louisa rushes down the hallway. After speaking with Evelyn, she was unable to get rid of her uneasiness. What would CEO Ashby want?With a tinge of relief on his face, Ashby looks up from the papers on his desk as she walks into his office."Thanks for coming, Louisa. I've spent the last hour attempting to get in touch with you.""I'm sorry, sir," Louisa replies. I just returned from a business meeting. What is this about?”Ashby reclines in his seat. "I need an update on the project you're working on. How far along is the marketing plan?”Understanding that it is merely a standard check in, Louisa relaxes. "Sir, we're on schedule. The campaign proposals are being finalized by the team. I will forward the report to you.”Ashby nods in satisfaction. "Well.The board has been putting pressure on me to reach th
The Billionaire's Fake Romance chapter 25: Back In The Game!
Linda approaches the doctor's office, the sound of her heels echoing through the hallway. The power with which she pulls open the door surprises even her. The only sounds in the room are the steady hum of an air conditioner and the gentle shuffling of papers, which create a serene, professional environment. Standing next to a filing cabinet, Fred looks up, startled. She becomes even more enraged as he looks at her and his eyes briefly flash with surprise. She inhales deeply and walks towards him, her intense eyes burning. Unaware of the fury building inside her, Fred attempts a nice smile and says, "Linda, I was just going to—" "Save it," she interrupts in a steely voice. Her face is piercing and unflinching, she takes a step forward, bringing them closer. "Fred, are you really that blind?" His blinking is unexpected. "I have no idea what you're talking about." She chuckles, but her laughter isn't funny. "Last week. The lunchbox. Do you recall? I saw you act as though I didn'
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The Billionaire's Fake Romance Chapter 54: Antiquated Romance Drama
John becomes more and more uneasy as he goes back and forth in his living room. His phone's call log, which shows innumerable outgoing calls and unanswered texts to Evelyn over the previous few days, reveals his growing despair. She doesn't reply to any of his messages, which is a startling concern given her custom of responding promptly. He had visited her home twice and knocked repeatedly, but each time there had been no answer. The fact that a neighbor had casually said that he had seen her leave early in the morning did little to calm him. Seeing no other recourse, he decides to go see her at her office. He needs answers, but it seemed invasive. After a few hours, John arrives at Palmer Tech building, bubbling with a hive of activity, with staff and guests mingling in its modern lobby area. John tries to hide his anxiety as he walks up to the receptionist. He declares, "I'm here to see Evelyn Mayers." The receptionist gives him a quick look. “Do you have an ap
The Billionaire's Fake Romance Chapter 53: Personal Troubles
Except for the little hum of activity coming from down the hall, Liam's waiting room is silent. With his arms crossed over his chest, he paces close to the window. Evelyn taps lightly on the armrest while sitting with her legs crossed. Fred leans against the wall, looking at the door and then at his phone. As they all wait for Louisa, tension pervades the air. A sense of relief fills the room as Louisa eventually enters, appearing worn out but neat. She brushes a hand through her hair and greets, "Morning," with a slight smile. "Mom!" Liam rushes over to her, his anxiety obvious. "What happened? Are you alright? We've been quite anxious.” "I’m fine, Liam," Louisa reassures him while putting a hand on his shoulder. She looks up at Evelyn and Fred saying, "I apologize for worrying you all. I was so worn out after leaving the hospital yesterday that I just dozed off and didn't wake up until this morning. I swear, nothing is wrong.” Evelyn looks at her for a ti
The Billionaire's Fake Romance Chapter 52: Historical Shadows
As Louisa enters her front door, the home feels colder than usual. The slight click of her heels on the wood floor is muffled by the weight of the pain in her chest. She throws her clutch on the couch and sinks down next to it, holding her face in her shaking hands. Sharp and unrelenting, Kingsley's words replays in her head. "You were nothing short of garbage!" "Queen of Deceit." Every word cut through her poise, exposing her vulnerability and rawness. Even though she had expected him to be hostile, the poison in his charges nonetheless, managed to pierce her more deeply than she had thought. She struggles to hold back her emotions, but before she could stop them, the dam bursts. She let out a sob, then another, and before she knows it, the stress of years was leaking out of her in fits of tears. Her thoughts strays to that fateful day that everything changed, the day Martha died, five years ago. She wishes Martha is here today, by her side to comfort her, tell her
The Billionaire's Fake Romance Chapter 51: "Joint Custody?"
Kingsley leans forward, his fingers drumming on the glass table before him, his eyes flickering with something incomprehensible. "Miss Emerson?” He repeats, more of a statement than a question, “send her in." He drops the call, a hint of relief evident on his face. It is true he has been feeling jittery since his visit to the hospital. He knows for a fact that she is hard hearted and stubborn. So, he wasn't sure she would be shaken by his threat and come find him, just because he said so. But the major cause of his anxiety is that he doesn't want to fight her. He had been hoping like hell that he wouldn't have to. Despite her faults, he knows she must have been through a lot, caring for a child who was born sick, alone. Hardy, still standing and awaiting his order raises his eyebrows, just enough to be noticeable but remains silent. He leaves swiftly at the gesture of Kingsley, giving him time to gather himself. Moments later, Louisa Emerson enters the office, her movemen
The Billionaire's Fake Romance Chapter 50: Dancing With The Devil
Cordelia's mouth clenches when she takes a look at the charge card Lyon slid over the table. She knows his fee is going to be high but her jaw drops at the ridiculous numbers written on it. She draws a tiny line with her lips and throws it back across the table.Her voice is low but piercing as she hisses, "This is crazy, Ryder. I refuse to pay that. And for your other request,—" she says in a tone subtly laced with contempt, "—you can forget it."Lyon laughs quietly and reclines in his chair, seemingly taking pleasure in her annoyance. "You should understand that negotiating is an art, Cordelia. Additionally, I believe we both understand that you are not here to go empty-handed.”Cordelia glares at him while folding her arms. "Avoid putting me to the test, Ryder. Over a dozen other investigators are present in this city.But none is like me,” Lyon responds with a smooth grin that never wavers. "I possess the contacts, expertise, and dirt you require.You're here because I delive
The Billionaire's Fake Romance Chapter 49: Dangerous Alliance
Cordelia types away on her office system, her mind focused on the memo she is preparing, which would be needed the following day for a presentation.Given the importance of that presentation, CEO Alan had explicitly stated that she should get it done herself, rather than passing it on to junior secretaries.Alan had effortlessly switched to professional mode the following week he insulted and humiliated her. It is very characteristic of him to switch like that, like the ashole that he is, until the next time his sexual urge beckons on him for a prey.Then, he'd remember he has a little sex toy nearby who can give him the ride of his life and massage his damned dick.Her phone chimes on the table, indicating an incoming text.Irritated with the interruption, she hisses, but her face brightens up when she glances at the screen and she sees that it is a message from Ryder Lyon.“Cafe Blaire, 3pm. Come with your charm.”She mentally rolls her eyes while putting the phone away.Thankfully
The Billionaire's Fake Romance Chapter 48: A Quiet Storm (iii)
Evelyn takes out her phone to dial John’s line but an incoming call buzzes through. Glancing at the screen, she realizes it is Louisa. Answering the call, she says, “Hey girl, xup? How's Liam holding up?” “Eve, there's trouble. Can you come here now?” comes Louisa's low response. Evelyn comes to with a start, “is Liam alright? What happened?” “It's not Liam, it's Kingsley. Can you come over?” Louisa continues speaking in a low, unsteady voice. “Am on my way,” Evelyn replies at once, dropping the call and hurrying into her car. Her fingers tightens around the steering wheel as she speeds toward the hospital, her mind racing with different thoughts. And here, she thought she was the only one having a bad day. Why has the day been so hectic? Louisa sounded so afraid on the phone. Her voice had been so shaky, nearly breaking under the weight of her fear. "Kingsley," she says the name quietly to herself and she feels a surge of frustration go through her. She doesn't know
The Billionaire's Fake Romance Chapter 47: A Quiet Storm (ii)
“Let's settle this now Louisa,” Kingsley starts, his voice bitter and colder than she'd ever heard it. He hesitates, just outside the threshold of the hallway, facing her squarely. His intent gaze seems to bore into her soul and Louisa wonders what the hell is going on. “I'll ask you again, who is your son's father?” Louisa's palms become clammy and her breath hitch as she realizes that Kingsley still has doubts about her son's paternity. She knew the moment he found out that Liam is her son that things would become hectic, because, for a fact, the odds are actually high. Knowing he is four years old and also has his generic disease is too big for a coincidence. But she didn't expect him to be so invested in the matter despite her refusal to open up. What exactly is it with this man? Does he want to see her shriveled up and dead from anxiety? She blinks and opens her mouth to speak but no sound comes out. Her mind races for something, anything, that would suffice as an a
The Billionaire's Fake Romance Chapter 46: A Quiet Storm (i)
The germless, clean fragrance of the hospital room remains in the air as Louisa drapes a thick duvet around Liam, who sits propped up in his bed. He has just been moved from the ICU to his private room, for further monitoring before being discharged finally. His cheeky grin belays the ordeal he's been through. Louisa can't help but return his smile although her tired eyes betray the exhaustion of sleepless nights. Her son is finally awake, stable and being his usual mischievous self again. It is a relief she isn't sure she deserves but she clings to it regardless. “You're doing too much again, mommy,” Liam swoons, his eyes twinkling. “I'm not a baby doll.” Louisa gives a low chuckle, genuinely amused by her son's folly. She brushes a strand of hair off his face. “ironic, coming from a four year old,” She teases him. “Come on, I'm just trying to make sure you're comfortable. Let me mother you a bit before resuming office.” “Don't jest mom,” Liam says, reaching for his favo
