Chap. 1: FIRED, FRAMED AND CHEATED ON

**Nicole's POV**

“Nice work, ladies!” I clapped my hands as I hugged the girls one by one.

“Come on, Nicole, you were the star today. All eyes were literally on you.” One of the models said, and I smiled.

“Don't talk about me, talk about yourselves. You girls were spectacular.” I complimented them. There was no doubt that they tried their best to make this afternoon's shoot a success and it turned out great.

“We'll take it because it's coming from the coolest international model ever.” They giggled and walked out.

I smiled and sat in front of my dresser. I looked into the mirror and was happy with what I saw. I felt happy that people screamed just by seeing my name on the TV screen. Didn't get to where I was today on a platter of gold; I worked my butt off for every little fame I got, and I was proud of my accomplishment.

If it was what people called suffering, I passed through it all. I passed through the flames of this industry before getting to where I am now. I haven't really gotten there yet, but look at me, I am an international model earning thousands of dollars. I've been able to pay off my parents' debt and also get them their own house. I'm independent and have the best fiancé. My life was perfect.

“I've done well,” I muttered to myself and stood up. “Where's Emily? I'm almost late,” I sighed and glanced at my wrist watch as I waited for my manager. The next day was my wedding, and I needed to get things ready. I can't afford to be late, else Frederick might get angry at me. He has been the best so far and deserves everything that's working out for us now.

The door opened and Emily rushed in. “Sorry, I'm late. I was held downstairs by Mr. Stark. He keeps insisting on seeing you.” Emily sighed and shook her head.

I sighed and facepalmed. What the heck was wrong with this man? When is he going to let me breathe in peace? Mr. Stark is the CEO of the company I'm working with recently, and was known for his troubles and advances. He had promised to elevate me to the famous model lounge if I agreed to spend a night with him, but tempting as the offer was, I rejected it. I love my fiancé so much and would never cheat on him, be it for the money or fame.

With a sigh, I walked out of my dressing room and headed for his office. As I passed by the hall, people kept screaming my name, and it brought smiles to my face.

When I got to his office, Emily remained outside while I entered. I took slow strides to where he sat, and he licked his lips, his eyes never leaving my body. I scoffed and rolled my eyes internally. I'd have to poke his eyes out one day.

“Good afternoon, Mr. Stark.” I greeted solemnly.

“Sit down,” He gestured to a chair in front of him without answering my greetings. I didn't bother, though. After all, I was only working with him temporarily. If I perform well in the upcoming fashion show, I'm certain I'll get signed by companies that are way better than his.

“Nicole, I'm going to have to lay you off.” He announced and I arched my brows.

“I don't understand what you're trying to say, Mr. Stark. What do you mean by “lay me off”?” I asked.

“Look, Nicole, I know you're smart enough to know how things work in this industry. I told you to do something simple but you turned me down.” He frowned at me, and I already knew where he was headed.

“Mr. Stark, I'm engaged—”

“So, what?” He cut me off.

“I'm getting married tomorrow!” I snapped.

“It doesn't matter,” He said and stood up from his chair. He walked up to me and placed his hands on my shoulders, then gave it a little squeeze. “You can do this once and for all, and I assure you that I will give you the popularity you crave. I'll make you the best and unbeatable international model.” He promised, and I sighed without saying a word.

When he was about sliding his hands into my blouse, I yanked his hands away and stood up. “My decision stands, Mr. Stark. I am not interested and never will be.”

He chuckled and frowned immediately. He walked back to his table and picked an envelope, then handed it over to me. “Miss. Nicole, you're fired!” He exclaimed and I gasped.

“Mr. Stark, you can't—”

“Pack your things and clear your dresser. You're no longer a model in this company.” He snapped and I scoffed.

“You can't lay me off without valid reasons, Mr. Stark. The board will not let you!” I snapped.

He chuckled evilly. “Just watch and see how everything you've worked for will start crumbling to the ground, Nicole. I'll make sure no fashion or modeling industry hire you ever again. Now, get the fuck out of my company.” He snapped and sat down.

I tried to beg, but he didn't want to have any of it. I couldn't believe he fired me because I refused to spend a night with him. How could he think of doing this to me?

I walked out of the office, looking devastated.

“What happened?” Emily rushed to me.

“He terminated my employment,” I answered slowly and started walking back to my quarters. As I walked through the halls, I could see the eyes of the ladies on me. Some shook their heads, while others jeered. They must have heard what transpired between me and him.

“Why? You did nothing wrong and broke no rules.” Emily complained as I walked into my room and packed my stuff.

“I don't want to talk about it, Emily.” I said to her and she nodded.

When I was done packing, I looked around and tears rolled down my cheeks. I wiped them and made my way out of the company.

“Nicole, is what we're hearing true? Did you really do it?” One of the models asked, and I furrowed my eyes in confusion.

“What do you mean?” I asked, but she didn't answer and walked away. “Check the news,” I ordered, and Emily brought out her phone.

The headlines made me open my mouth wide in shock.

JUST IN: Nicole Brennan, a famous international model, just got fired from work for lobbying and seducing managers to get to the position she is today.

I blinked twice and wondered when I did all these. I could see related news about me and some pictures which didn't look like something I'd do at all.

“That scumbag! He dared to frame me!” I snapped.

“Nicole!” Emily exclaimed and showed me another one.

Nicole Brennan's ratings have dropped as a result, and fashion companies are withdrawing from signing her as their model.

I could feel my legs giving out and I fell to the floor in tears. 

“I didn't do all these. I never did!” I snapped, but no one was ready to listen to me.

Emily helped me up, and I held my bag and walked out of the company. “Just go home. I'll be fine.” I said to Emily after crying my eyes out in the car.

“Are you sure you're going to be fine?” She asked and I nodded with a sniff.

“Yes, I will. Now get going,” I smiled. When she was out, I drove to Frederick's place. He was my fiancé and right now, all I wanted was to be in his arms and receive his comfort.

I parked my car and got out, then arranged my clothes as I made my way to the door. 

I was about to turn the doorknob when I was hearing moans and screams. Swiftly, I opened the door and what I saw made my eyes widen in shock. My bag fell from my hand.

I saw Frederick on top of Kayla, banging her hard.

Tears slipped from my eyes and I couldn't help but yell.

“Frederick! You asshole!”