Emily's POVI felt a pang of guilt, knowing I didn't want to answer the call in front of Liam. It would be too awkward, and I didn't want to risk spoiling the mood. I silenced the phone and put it back in my purse, turning my attention back to Liam."Why didn't you answer it?" His voice was curious. I felt a pang of guilt, knowing I had just lied to him. "It's my sister." I tried to sound nonchalant. "She always wants something." The lie felt heavy on my tongue, but I pushed the guilt away.I wanted to tell Liam everything, to come clean and let him in on the secret. But I remembered Ethan's warning, and I knew I couldn't take the risk. I had to keep the secret, no matter how much it was eating away at me. I felt a knot in my stomach, knowing I was doing something wrong. But I had to keep my promise to Ethan, no matter what.The phone kept vibrating, like a constant reminder of my secret. I knew I had to turn it off, to escape the temptation to answer it. I reached for the phone
Ethan's POVI opened my eyes, and there she was, standing in front of me. Emily looked concerned, and I wondered if I looked as tired as I felt. "I think it would be more comfortable if you went inside to sleep you look uncomfortable on the couch." I knew she was right.I wondered why she hadn't told me she was coming back late. I knew I shouldn't let her know I was worried, as I didn't want to make her feel special. "You would have told me you were coming back late." I kept my voice steady."I'm sorry." Her voice was apologetic. "I didn't know I would spend so much time." She seemed to be telling the truth, but I still felt a twinge of doubt. "Why weren't you picking up your phone?" "My phone was in my bag, by the time I discovered I had missed calls, my battery had died." I could tell she was telling the truth. "I'm sorry I made you worried," she added, and I could hear the sincerity in her voice."I wasn't worried. I lied.""The dinner at my grandfather's house is tomorrow."
Ethan's POVAs I got closer to the kitchen, I could hear Emily's voice. It sounded like she was on the phone, and I stopped to listen. I could hear her talking, but I couldn't make out what she was saying. She was smiling and blushing, and it was clear that she was smitten with whoever she was talking to. It was none of my business, and she was entitled to her own life. As I entered the kitchen, Emily quickly ended her call. It was clear that she wasn't comfortable with me being around. I didn't care.She didn't say a word to me, but she seemed to be going about her business, making breakfast as if nothing had happened. I wanted to apologize for the way I had yelled at her earlier, but my pride was getting in the way. I knew I had been wrong, but I couldn't bring myself to admit it. I was at a loss for what to do.I finally mustered up the courage to speak to her. "Hey." I tried to sound nonchalant. But she didn't look up from what she was doing, and it was clear she was avoiding
Emily's POVI could tell by the look on Ethan's face that he wasn't pleased with my appearance. He was frowning, his eyes taking in my outfit with a critical eye. I felt my confidence falter, and I wondered if I had chosen the wrong outfit. But I was determined to make the best of it, even if I felt self-conscious."Umm... can we leave now?" I tried to break the awkward silence. I wanted to change the subject and move on from the uncomfortable moment. I could tell Ethan was still looking at me with a critical eye, and I was starting to feel more and more uncomfortable. I just wanted to get out of there and start the evening on a better note."Of course we can. But we'll need to make a few stops on the way." I nodded, feeling relieved that he was willing to move on from the uncomfortable moment. "Okay." I did my best to sound upbeat.As we stepped out of the house, I couldn't help but notice how handsome Ethan looked. His suit fit him perfectly, accentuating his broad shoulders and
Emily's POV"Which of these would you like?" the saleswoman asked, her smile wide and enthusiastic. I was a bit taken aback by her enthusiasm, and I didn't know what to say. I had no idea what to choose, or even how to begin. "Your fiance, Ethan, is a very handsome and wealthy man," the saleswoman said, her voice almost a whisper. "I'm sure many girls would kill to be in your shoes." I felt a knot in my stomach, not knowing how to respond to her. I didn't want to be rude, but I also didn't want to give her the wrong idea."You're really lucky," she continued. "Your boyfriend is very generous, and he has excellent taste." I felt even more embarrassed at her assumption that he was my boyfriend. I wasn't sure how to correct her, so I just remained silent."I think you should try on the navy blue dress." Her enthusiasm coming back. "It will match perfectly with your fiance's pants." I felt like I was stuck in an awkward situation, not knowing how to get out of it. I looked at her, a pu
Emily's POVI nodded at the lady, unable to muster up the energy to speak. I had a tired look on my face, and I was starting to feel exhausted. The hairstylist worked on my hair for what felt like an eternity. Finally, she was done, and I was ready to face the night ahead.I took a deep breath and stood up from the chair. I went out to where Ethan was standing, feeling nervous about his reaction. I looked at him, and I was surprised to see a look of amazement on his face. I couldn't help but blush at his reaction. It was the first time I had seen him look at me with anything other than contempt."Y-you look good." he stammered, looking a bit flustered. I couldn't help but smile at his reaction. I was feeling flattered and a bit giddy at the same time. "Thank you." I felt a little shy. I tucked a strand of hair behind my ear, feeling a bit flustered.We went to the counter, and he paid for the services. I couldn't help but feel a bit guilty at the cost. I knew he must have spent a f
Emily's POVThe other woman, who seemed to be in her early sixties, turned to Ethan and said, "Your wife is so pretty!" She hugged me, and I started to feel a bit overwhelmed by all the attention. "You guys fit perfectly together," she said with a big smile. "I can't wait for your first child!" I was taken aback by her comment, and I couldn't help but feel a bit flustered.Ethan let out an uncomfortable cough, clearly not enjoying the conversation. "Okay, Mom and Aunt, we would love to go sit down now." He tried to change the subject. "Okay, my darling," the woman who seemed to be in her late fifties said, still smiling widely. That was his mom? I was surprised - I hadn't expected her to be so sweet. She was the complete opposite of Ethan, who seemed cold and distant. I waved goodbye to them, and we headed to our seats. I couldn't help but feel a sense of relief as we sat down."I'll go get us a drink," Ethan said, his demeanor completely different from earlier. He was being a lot
Emily's POVI was now sitting at the table with Liam's date, and I was uncomfortable. She kept staring at me, and it was making me feel self-conscious and awkward. I didn't know what to say to her, and I just wanted to get out of there.The silence was broken by her words, "I didn't expect Ethan to settle down for someone like you." I felt my cheeks flush with embarrassment, and I didn't know how to respond. I just sat there, feeling humiliated and small."What do you mean by 'someone like me?'" I asked her, trying to sound brave and confident. But inside, I was feeling completely insecure. I felt like I was being judged and found wanting."You know." She looked at me up and down with a disgusted look on her face. I felt like I was being appraised and found lacking. She was being so rude, and I couldn't understand why. I hadn't done anything to offend her, so why was she acting this way?Before I knew it, Liam's speech was over, and I hadn't even registered what he had said. My mind
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