Emily's POV"You look beautiful, by the way," Liam said, making me blush. "I'm sorry. I forgot to say that earlier." His words surprised me, but I didn't know what to say. I wanted to come up with a witty response, but I just stood there, blushing and smiling like an idiot. "I like your shoes, too," he added, gesturing to my feet. I looked down at my shoes. My cheeks flushed a deep red. I stammered a little as I tried to find the right words to respond. "Thank you," I finally managed to say. "You look pretty great yourself." I wasn't sure if that was the right thing to say, but it was the best I could come up with. He just smiled at me and I felt my heart flutter.I could feel my hands shaking as I stood there, trying to think of something to say. I was usually so comfortable around Liam, but for some reason, I felt more nervous than usual. Maybe it was because of the situation, or maybe it was something else. I couldn't quite put my finger on it. I took a deep breath, trying to
Emily's POV"I'm going to pick out a teddy bear for you," Liam said, his tone playful and mischievous. "And then you're going to pick one for me. If you don't like the one I pick, I lose. But if you like the one I pick, I win." I thought about his proposal for a moment, and then I nodded. "You're on." A smile was on my face. "This is going to be fun." And with that, we set off to find the perfect teddy bears for each other.I started looking through the shelves, searching for the perfect teddy bear for Liam. There were so many to choose from, but I wanted to find one that reflected his personality. Finally, I spotted the perfect one. It was a big, fluffy brown bear with a red bowtie around its neck. I knew it was the one. "I found the perfect one," I said, holding it up for Liam to see. "It's you, in teddy bear form." He laughed, and I could tell he was impressed. "That's pretty accurate."Liam studied the teddy bear for a moment, and then he turned to me, an impish grin on his fac
Emily's POVAs we drove closer to Ethan's apartment, I felt a sense of panic rising in my chest. I didn't want Liam to know where I lived, for some reason. So, when we reached a point close to Ethan's building, I decided to lie. "We've reached my destination." I pointed to a random apartment building. "Thank you for the ride." Liam got out of the car and came around to open the door for me. I wasn't expecting that, and it caught me off guard. I felt a flutter in my stomach as I stepped out of the car. I was grateful for the gesture, but I wasn't sure what to make of it. Was this a sign of something more, or was it just a friendly gesture? "Thank you for making my evening interesting," he said, his eyes meeting mine. I felt a blush creeping up my cheeks, and I looked away, trying to regain my composure. "It was my pleasure." My voice was a little unsteady. "It was nice to get out and do something fun for a change. I'm glad you enjoyed it." His voice was warm and sincere. "We shoul
Emily's POVI glanced at the clock and realized it was late. I knew I had to get up early to make breakfast for Ethan before he went to work, so I decided to call it a night. I put the flowers and note on my nightstand, next to my bed. I closed my eyes and tried to sleep, but my mind was racing with thoughts of Liam and what the future might hold. Despite my best efforts, I couldn't seem to settle my thoughts.I tried to clear my mind, to think of something else, but Liam's face kept popping up in my thoughts. I closed my eyes, but his smile lingered there, like a ghostly presence. I tried to focus on my breathing, but my mind kept wandering back to him. I wondered if he was thinking about me too, if he was lying awake, unable to sleep as well. I wondered if he was smiling too, thinking about me.I opened my eyes, my heart still racing from the thoughts of Liam. I sat up in bed, trying to calm myself down. I knew I needed to get some sleep, so I decided to do something that would help
"I didn't know you were awake I wanted to come upstairs to ask you what you would like for breakfast"Ethan's face remained serious, and his tone was unyielding. "So, since you didn't come upstairs to ask me, you must have decided on something for me. It doesn't matter what I want, you've already made your choice." "Yes, I decided to make Italian pasta. I hope you like it.""I've never had that before. But I'm always up for trying something new." I was taken aback by Ethan's behavior. It was so different from his usual demeanor, which was usually cold and distant. I couldn't help but wonder if something had happened that had put him in a good mood, or if this was just a fluke. Either way, I was glad to have the chance to talk to him. Even if the conversation was a bit awkward.The conversation was a bit awkward, but I was still surprised Ethan was engaging with me. I was trying to make the most of the opportunity. "There's a small issue." "What's that?" His expression was still
Emily's POVThe car ride was filled with an uncomfortable silence, and I wished that we would reach Ethan's house soon. I was grateful he had offered to bring me to the store, but I couldn't help but feel a little unsettled by the sudden change in his behavior. I wondered what had brought about the shift, and whether it would last. When we arrived at his house I was relieved. I carried the groceries inside, heading straight for the kitchen. I put the items away, avoiding any eye contact with Ethan. He was still silent, and I wasn't sure what to say to him. We both seemed to be avoiding any conversation, and the air was thick with tension. I couldn't help but feel anxious and uneasy.I was almost done putting the groceries away when I tripped on the rug and a few items fell to the floor. I scrambled to pick them up, but Ethan walked right past me without offering to help. I was taken aback by his lack of concern. Was he really that self-absorbed? I continued to put the groceries away,
Emily's POVMy frustration was growing by the second. I was already feeling stressed about work, and now he was adding to it with his demands. "I'll be leaving now." His tone was curt and demanding. "I want you to submit the PowerPoint I asked for, and I want you to be at work as early as possible." I wanted to snap back at him, but I bit my tongue. I didn't want to make the situation worse. I just wanted to get out of there and go to work."Okay, sir." I tried to sound as respectful as possible. I didn't want to make things worse by arguing with him. "Have a good day." He just grunted in response. I hurried upstairs, feeling a sense of relief as I closed the door to my bedroom. I took a deep breath and tried to relax. I poured some cold water on my face and neck, hoping it would help to calm my mind. I felt so stressed out after my interaction with Ethan. He was such a jerk, and I couldn't believe I had to deal with him every day at home and work. I took a few minutes to just br
Emily's POV"What about the girl you ran into?" I asked, wanting to know more about Sofia's condition."You mean Sofia?" I nodded. "Yeah, she's doing better. I went to visit her today, and I bought her some cupcakes," A smile was on his face. I couldn't help but feel a wave of relief wash over me, knowing that Sofia was doing better. "That's so nice of you." I was impressed by his thoughtfulness. "You are a good guy," I added, my voice full of admiration."Don't flatter me." "I'm serious.""You mentioned you were busy." "Yeah, I am," I admitted. "Don't worry, I'll let you get back to work," he gave me a knowing smile. "Thanks, I appreciate it." He gave me a quick wave and then turned to leave. I watched him go, feeling grateful for his kindness and generosity.I took a bite of doughnuts, savoring the sweet, fluffy goodness. As I ate, I couldn't help but feel warm and fuzzy inside, thinking about how kind and thoughtful Liam had been. He was such a sweetheart, always looking o
Ethan's POV I stepped out and saw Emily in the living room. "Is there a problem?" I asked, concern etched on my face. "I was hearing loud voices.”I raised an eyebrow, my curiosity piqued. "An unexpected visitor?" I repeated, my voice gentle. I took a step closer to Emily, trying to get her to meet my gaze. "Everything okay?" I asked, my tone softening."There isn't," she said, her gaze drifting away from mine. Her voice was laced with a hint of tension, and I could sense that she was hiding something.I nodded, taking note of the subtle change in Emily's demeanor. "Olivia's back," she announced, her voice neutral. I couldn't help but think of my own unwanted visitor. But my attention was quickly refocused on Emily, and the hint of unease that lingered beneath her composed exterior.She cleared her throat nervously. "I was about to inform you... I will be leaving this morning." Those words made my heart drop."Just wait until after dinner, then," I said, trying to sound casual. But E
EMILY'S POV I rushed back, my footsteps silent on the stairs as I watched him walk away. His eyes sparkled with a love so true as he confirmed his love for Olivia. My heart shattered into a million pieces as I realized the painful truth: he was in love, and he had always been in love. Tears pricked at the corners of my eyes as I felt my world crumbling around me. My box of emotions was overflowing, and I couldn't hold back the sorrow anymore.I was already packed, my bags stood silently in the shadows, a poignant reminder of the decision I'd made. Immediately after dinner, I would be leaving him forever. The thought was razor-sharp, cutting through my heart like a knife. I felt a chill run down my spine as I contemplated the finality of it all - the end of our relationship, the end of our life together.Tomorrow was a day of conflicting desires. A part of me yearned for its arrival, eager to escape the anguish that had become my reality. I longed to leave behind the shattered remain
Ethan's POVI found myself drawn to her room, compelled to gaze into her eyes. Their piercing beauty had a calming effect on my frazzled nerves. I stood there, mesmerized, unsure of what to say to her. Our time together was fleeting, and soon we'd be parting ways forever. In the precious moments I had left, I couldn't help but indulge in the beauty of her gorgeous eyes.I retreated to my bedroom, seeking solace in the familiar comfort of my bed. As I lay down, I stretched out my muscles, trying to release the tension that had been building up inside me. But despite my efforts to relax, my heart remained heavy with pain.My heart ached with the weight of inaction. I yearned to fight for what I desired, but the risk of vulnerability held me back. The fear of being shattered once more, of enduring an everlasting pain, kept my emotions in check. My mind screamed to take a stand, to seize what was mine, but the terror of heartbreak silenced my resolve, leaving me paralyzed and torn.The sh
EMILY'S POV Liam's eyes darted around the space, his gaze lingering on every corner as if expecting someone to emerge from the shadows before finally settling on me to ask, "Did Ava speak harshly to you?” “No,” I replied, my voice firm so he couldn't see right through me, but unfortunately he did because I met a skeptical look on his face. “Emily,” he called, his voice gentle as always, "Are you hiding anything from me?" he added. His eyes locked on mine with an intense gaze. “I'm not.” I needed to be out of her. My body was here, but my mind and soul were with someone who cared least about me. I realized at that moment I was in love with Ethan. I had always known that, but what I just discovered was the connection between me and Liam-Lust. I didn't know how to put it. I didn't know how to tell him why I was giddy with excitement whenever he was around. It wasn't because I loved him; it was because I wanted to escape the sad reality of unrequited love. “Emily,” I snapped out o
Ethan's POVI watched from a distance as Liam's car pulled away from the curb, a mixture of curiosity and unease swirling in my chest. I had specifically warned Emily to keep our arrangement private, and yet, here she was, meeting with...him. I narrowed my eyes, my mind racing with possibilities. What were they discussing? And why did Emily feel the need to sneak around behind my back? I made a mental note to confront Liam about this later, my eyes never leaving the fading tail lights of his car.The anger simmered beneath my surface, a slow-burning fire that threatened to consume me. I couldn't believe she would kiss me, pretend to have feelings for me, when all along she was still entangled with Liam. The thought was a bitter pill to swallow, and I felt my jaw clenched in frustration. I wasn't used to feeling this way about anyone, especially not a woman. My usual detachment, my ability to remain aloof, had been breached, and it was a disconcerting feeling.I stood in front of the s
EMILY’S POVI felt a surge of anger and frustration towards Ethan, mixed with a strong dose of self-loathing for the desire I still felt for him. It was a toxic combination that left me feeling raw and exposed.I hated how my heart went crazy whenever Ethan was near. The skipping beats and nervous flutters were a dead giveaway to the feelings I was trying to suppress.I was so caught up in my thoughts that I didn't notice Liam standing there, and I ended up bumping into him.Liam raised an eyebrow, a hint of a smile on his face. "Hey, looks like I've got Miss Clumsy back in the building."I attempted to muster a smile, but my heart wasn't in it. The pain and turmoil I'd been feeling lingered, making it impossible for me to feign happiness.Liam's eyes locked onto mine, and he could tell something was off. "Hey, is everything okay?" he asked, his voice soft with concern."No, I'm good," I said, trying to downplay my emotions. But Liam wasn't buying it. He kept looking at me with that c
EMILY’S POVI opened my eyes to find the sun shining brightly through the window, its rays piercing my eyes.I rubbed my temples, trying to get rid of the annoying headache that had settled in.I stood up, stretching my arms and legs. I headed to the bathroom, turned on the faucet, and splashed some water on my face. The cool water helped me relax.I looked in the mirror, and my eyes widened as I remembered what had happened last night. The memories came rushing back, and I felt a mix of emotions.A wave of panic washed over me as I struggled to recall the events of the previous night. "What did I do?" I whispered to myself, my mind racing with fragmented memories. I rubbed my temples again, trying to massage away the throbbing pain as more visions flashed through my mind.My fingers drifted to my lips, and I was instantly transported back to the moment when Ethan's lips had touched mine. The sensation still lingered, a gentle tingling that seemed to echo through every nerve ending.I
Ethan's POV The ceremony went off without any major hitches, although there were a few dramatic moments that kept things interesting.Tonight was different, however. As I watched Ava and Liam together, I was surprised to find that the familiar pangs of sadness and disappointment were noticeably absent.I felt a deep sense of gratitude that the bitter emotions I had long harbored had finally begun to dissipate.Emily and I headed to the nightclub for a meeting with Don Sacrum, a prominent investor. Unconventional as it may seem, Don consistently preferred conducting business in such settings. His reputation preceded him, and I made it a point to be available at his beck and call, regardless of the hour.As the son of a renowned billionaire, Don Sacrum had inherited a vast fortune following his father's passing a few months prior.I glanced over at Emily, noticing a look of discomfort on her face. Seeking to alleviate her unease, I gently took her small hand in mine, offering a reassur
Emily's POV Ava's smile was a thin, cruel line. "Don't play dumb," she sneered. "I know all about the way Ethan looks at you now. The way he hangs on your every word."Ava's words hung in the air, her implication clear. I felt a surge of indignation, but I kept my tone level. "I don't know what you're insinuating, Ava," I said, "but I assure you, nothing is going on between Ethan and me."Ava's smile was a cold, calculated thing. "Even if there is something between you and Ethan," she said, her voice dripping with malice, "I promise you, it's coming to an end soon."Ava's gaze flicked to my ears, her eyes narrowing as she gestured to the earrings. "Those belong to me," she stated, her tone cold and possessive.I turned to Ava, my gaze locking onto hers. "What belongs to you?" I asked, my voice even and measured."Those earrings," she replied, her voice firm, her eyes never leaving mine."I think you must be mistaken," I said, my tone polite but firm. "Those earrings couldn't possibly