Mark's hands clenched into fists, his body trembling with barely contained fury. His vision blurred with red as a fiery rage consumed him, the mockery and humiliation clawing at his pride.Sensing his volcanic anger, Christine stepped in quickly, placing a delicate hand on his chest to stop him from lunging forward. Her voice was soft, almost pleading, as she whispered, “Sweetheart, don’t do it.” She stroked his chest in what she hoped was a soothing gesture. “It’s not worth it,” she murmured, her tone saccharine, attempting to pacify the seething man.Mark exhaled sharply, his grip tightening around Christine’s waist. The action grounded him, reminding him why he was here in the first place. He hadn’t come to this event to pick a fight or fuel a scandal—he had come to rebuild connections and salvage his crumbling reputation.Taking a slow, deliberate step back, he forced himself to swallow his anger. But the shame of backing down in front of Damien, Eva, and the entire room burned de
Christine noticed the defeat in Mark’s eyes and frowned deeply. He resembled a fallen commander on a desolate battlefield, his armor shattered, his sword broken, and his dignity reduced to a tattered white flag fluttering in surrender.She refused to let him crumble like this. He was a Johnson, for heaven’s sake! How could he let a single insult from Damien Cross completely destroy his pride? Many others had faced Damien’s wrath and emerged unscathed, so why couldn’t he?A storm of emotions flickered in her gaze as determination hardened her delicate features. This was not the end of the Johnson legacy. A king might fall, but he could rise again.Clenching her fists, she grabbed Mark’s hand and led him away from the crowd of mocking onlookers. She blocked out their jeers and whispers, letting their insults fuel her resolve. She was done playing the damsel in distress. It was time to use her status and connections to rebuild what had been lost.“Haha, look at them slinking away with th
With how securely he was holding her, he made sure there was no escape. He reveled in her softness, the warmth of her body against his own. Hugging her felt like holding the world’s most comfortable pillow, and her delicate, heavenly scent only heightened the sense of paradise she brought him.“I’m always normal,” Eva argued, her tone defensive yet laced with playful defiance.“Of course you are,” Damien replied, nodding with exaggerated sincerity, his voice low and teasing.He was doing everything in his power to soothe her mood, the metaphorical wagging of his tail almost visible. His face nuzzled into her neck, his soft hair brushing against her skin and drawing out a tiny, melodic giggle from her lips.“That tickles,” she laughed, the sound light and pure, making his heart race.Her laughter was intoxicating, and Damien couldn’t help but tighten his hold slightly, his lips brushing softly against the sensitive skin of her neck as he murmured, “Then maybe I should stop… or maybe no
“Are you sure? It’s solid and really hard—”“Please stop talking,” Damien replied, his voice raspy and filled with heavy desire for her.When Eva’s wide, naively clear eyes looked up at him with a curious expression, he inwardly cursed all the foul words known to mankind. She was completely oblivious to the effect she had on men, and that aggravated him even more.“Why?” she asked innocently, tilting her head, her silky hair cascading down her back with the small action. Her loose waves looked perfect for someone to run their fingers through, evoking a possessiveness within Damien. He reached out roughly to grab the back of her neck, but his hand softened when it touched her delicate skin.He bent down, tugging her closer until his lips hovered over her ear. “Because I might do something we’ll both regret.”“Like?” Eva placed a hand on his chest, her slender fingers tracing small circles. A low grunt escaped Damien as he seized her hand, nearing the edge of his control.“Like taking y
Acting on pure impulse, he lifted her into his arms without breaking their heated kiss. Her legs instinctively wrapped around his waist, granting him the leverage to hold her closer. She poured herself into the kiss, uncertainty and self-doubt flickering in her mind, but when his deep, pleasured groan rumbled through her, she pressed on, emboldened by his reaction.Their lips collided in a fervent rhythm, her tongue teasing and tasting as she nipped at him. He matched her passion with his own, his control slipping with every passing second. When her back met the soft surface of the mattress, she realized where this was heading. He loomed over her, his hand dangerously low on her thigh, his fingers brushing against sensitive skin as he stood between her legs.His touch grew bolder, sliding beneath the sheer material of her gown, his rough fingertips grazing her smooth flesh. The sensation sent a jolt through her, and she froze. Her heart pounded wildly, her throat suddenly parched as t
When the crowd finally dispersed and everyone finished greeting them, Eva finally took a breather. Her eyes wandered around the banquet, seeking Nathalia, who had been absent from her line of sight the entire evening.Eva’s brows furrowed when she spotted Nathalia standing in a secluded corner of the banquet, sipping wine next to a statue. She appeared to be alone, but upon closer inspection, Eva noticed a man nearby, leaning casually against the marble.It was none other than Liam Carter, the rising actor who had recently garnered attention after winning an award for his leading role in what Nathalia had proclaimed her "current favorite movie." Eva squinted to get a better look and noticed their lips moving. Were they having a conversation?"What are you looking at?" Damien’s voice interrupted her thoughts as he tried to follow her gaze, but Eva quickly averted her eyes, turning toward him."Nothing in particular," she said nonchalantly, her face as blank as a clean slate.But inward
The hum of the crowd hushed as someone emerged at the top of the grand staircase. A tall, striking man descended with the confidence of a king. His laidback smile masked the guarded expression in his eyes. Symmetrical features, high cheekbones, and an aristocratic nose gave him a commanding presence.Eva’s jaw tightened as disdain swirled in her chest upon laying eyes on the man.Dustin Banks. The start of tonight's show. The reason why she was forced to be here at this damned party, one way or the other.The new CEO of Dust Flex Conglomerate and the sworn enemy of her second best friend, Kaiser.He looked so carefree, completely oblivious to all the lives he had disrupted in his adolescent years when tormenting others was merely a game—a game where he calculated how quickly his chess pieces would break.She could still vividly recall the pain-stricken face of Kai when he barely managed to escape a brutal beating instigated by Dustin’s underlings. Though Dustin wasn’t there to witness
After his speech, Dustin mingled effortlessly with the crowd, his demeanor warm yet subtly calculating. His relaxed smile and approachable air made him an instant favorite among the attendees. He carried himself with a calm charm that made people feel at ease, though there was a sharp intelligence in his eyes that hinted at his true nature. It was hard to believe this was the same hotheaded man Eva remembered from years ago.Eva observed him from a distance, her thoughts clouded with intrigue. Dustin's transformation was nothing short of remarkable. He had once been easily provoked and impulsive, a man ruled by his emotions. Now, he was calm and composed, exuding an aura of quiet confidence. She couldn’t help but wonder what had prompted such a dramatic change. Personal growth? A harsh lesson from life? Whatever it was, it had left a lasting mark.Her gaze shifted to Damien, standing a few feet away. He was engaged in a deep conversation with another man, his hand still lightly restin
“I... I’m starting to think Eva might be trying to sabotage me. You know, with the awards coming up, and her growing popularity... I just have this feeling she’s trying to push me out of the competition,” Christine said, her voice trembling slightly as if she was on the verge of breaking down. She knew Mark would respond to weakness, to vulnerability, just as he always had.Mark’s voice was low, filled with annoyance. “What do you mean, sabotage you? She’s already got the public on her side. What else does she want?”“I don’t know, Mark. But I can’t shake the feeling that she’s behind some of the things happening to me lately,” Christine continued, carefully planting the seed of doubt. “She’s been getting more endorsements, more media attention... She’s always one step ahead, and I feel like she’s using me to boost her own career. Maybe she’s trying to push me out of the spotlight, making sure I don’t have a chance to win.”Mark was silent for a moment, processing the information. Chr
Eva didn’t respond immediately. She could feel the seriousness in Everett’s words, and for a brief moment, the playful rivalry between them was pushed aside.Everett’s eyes softened slightly as she looked at Eva, a rare glimpse of concern flickering in her gaze. “What are you going to do about her? She’s the one who caused my accident but had that person lie he was a fan, right? Also with the recent things happening, I can tell she’s been pulling strings, trying to break you down.”Eva's expression hardened, her grip tightening on her wine glass. “I’m not sure yet. But Christine’s time is running out.” She gave a slight, bitter laugh. “I won’t let her destroy me.”Everett studied Eva for a moment, her face unreadable. “Be careful, Eva,” she said quietly, her tone more serious than Eva had ever heard. “Christine’s dangerous. And she’s got a way of making everyone believe her sweet little act.”Eva took a deep breath, looking away briefly as she processed Everett’s words. The concern wa
The day of the event arrived, and Christine was glowing with victory. Dressed in an elegant gown, she enjoyed the attention as she mingled with industry elites, knowing she was now the headlining speaker.With Eva out of the picture, this was her moment.Then the doors opened.Gasps rippled through the crowd as Eva walked in, effortlessly poised, wearing a breathtaking designer dress. The cameras instantly shifted toward her, flashing in rapid succession.Christine’s smile faltered. “What is she doing here?”Before she could react, the event host stepped onto the stage, microphone in hand.“Ladies and gentlemen, we have a special surprise. While there were some scheduling changes, we’re honored to have Eva here tonight.”Christine stiffened. “What? That’s impossible!”Eva merely smiled, making her way toward the front.Kai had pulled the right strings behind the scenes. Even if she wasn’t an official speaker anymore, she was still one of the biggest names in the room—and the audience
Christine was livid. Every attempt to ruin Eva had backfired, and now, the industry was beginning to suspect foul play.Her carefully crafted innocent image was slipping, and she refused to let that happen.Gripping her phone tightly, she dialed Tanya, her voice sharp the moment the call connected."Tanya, listen carefully. I don’t care what it takes—pull every string, bribe whoever you need to, but make sure Eva does not attend the upcoming fashion event. I want her out, completely.”Tanya hesitated. “Christine, are you sure about this? Maybe you should—”“Don’t question me!” Christine snapped, her frustration boiling over. “Do you think I have the luxury of waiting? Eva is already taking the spotlight. If this continues, I won’t even be considered for the Top Ten Models Award!”Tanya sighed. “Fine. I’ll see what I can do. But Christine, be careful. You’re playing a dangerous game. If this backfires, it could cost you everything.”Christine scoffed. “Please. Eva won’t be able to prov
Christine sat alone in the dimly lit hotel, her fingers lightly tapping against the side of her untouched wine glass. The usually confident and composed woman looked lost in thought, her expression unreadable as she stared at the city skyline beyond the floor-to-ceiling windows.Everything she had planned against Eva had backfired spectacularly. Instead of destroying Eva’s reputation, she had only fueled the public’s admiration for her. The industry was turning against Christine, and the narrative was slipping out of her control.A soft click of heels echoed through the room, breaking Christine from her thoughts.“Christine?”She turned her head slightly, finding Tanya standing near the entrance, a curious look on her face.Tanya was one of the few people Christine trusted—or rather, tolerated—because she was useful. Smart, cunning, and always willing to play dirty, Tanya had been by Christine’s side long enough to know exactly how far she was willing to go to get what she wanted.“Wh
A few days after Mark successfully cleared his name from the Harper Luxuries scandal, Christine sat alone in her dressing room, her perfectly manicured fingers tapping impatiently against the vanity table.She had tried everything—sabotage, whispers in the right ears, carefully placed rumors—yet Eva always came out unscathed. Every plan Christine devised had crumbled before her eyes, and it was beginning to drive her insane.If indirect tactics didn’t work, she had to change her approach. This time, she wouldn’t hide behind shadows. She wouldn’t need to.Instead, she would manipulate the situation so well that Eva would ruin herself.All she needed was the perfect stage.---An exclusive fashion gala was set to take place, attended by top designers, influencers, and media elites. Both Eva and Christine had been invited as brand ambassadors for their respective labels.Christine smirked to herself. This was it. The perfect opportunity.She had carefully arranged for the media’s attenti
The dim candlelight cast a golden glow over the elegantly set dining table. A soft melody played in the background, filling the room with warmth. Christine had spent hours preparing this—his favorite dishes, the finest wine. Tonight had to be perfect.She glanced at the clock anxiously. Mark would be home soon. And she had to fix this.The front door finally opened, and Mark stepped inside. His face was tired, his eyes dark with frustration. He didn’t even glance at the romantic dinner she had prepared. Instead, he sighed heavily, running a hand through his hair.“Christine, what is this?” His voice was cold.Christine swallowed and stepped toward him. “A dinner. For us.”Mark scoffed, shaking his head. “A dinner? Christine, do you have any idea what I’ve been dealing with? My father’s furious. Investors are backing out after the Harper Luxuries. I've lost of funds.” His voice grew sharper, filled with exhaustion. “And do you know what people are whispering? That my own fiancée might
The silence between them was thick with unspoken thoughts, but Damien wasn’t one to leave things unresolved. He turned slightly, his piercing gaze fixed on her.“Why didn’t you ask for my help?” His voice was calm but held an edge of something deeper—something close to frustration.Eva, who had been absentmindedly tracing the rim of her wine glass, glanced at him. A small smirk curled her lips, but it didn’t quite reach her eyes.“Because it was something I could handle,” she said simply. “Like always.”Damien’s expression remained unreadable, but his fingers curled slightly against his knee. “And if you couldn’t?”Eva shrugged. “Then I would have asked. But it wasn’t time for that yet.”That answer didn’t satisfy him. He exhaled slowly, rubbing his temple. “Eva—”“I know what you’re going to say,” she interrupted, meeting his gaze head-on. “You think I should have let you take care of it. But Damien, I don’t always need you to fight my battles. Sometimes, I want to win them on my own
Eva sat on the couch, feeling bored. The scandal had caused too much noise, and going home—where the paparazzi were undoubtedly lurking—was out of the question.With a sigh, Eva reached for her phone and scrolled through her contacts. Her finger hovered over Damien for a moment before she pressed the call button.The phone rang twice before his deep, smooth voice came through. “Eva.”Just her name. Nothing more. But there was something in the way he said it—low, controlled, yet sharp with attention—that made her exhale slowly.“Hey,” she murmured, leaning against the plush headboard.Silence. Then, “What’s wrong?”She almost smiled. He always saw through her.“I can’t go home,” she admitted, rubbing her temple. “The reporters are camped outside. And after today’s interview… they’ll only get worse.”Damien didn’t answer immediately. She could hear the faint rustling of papers, the click of a pen, before he finally spoke. “Where are you?”“Penthouse suite at the Grand Royale,” she repli