Ethan PovEthan leaned back in his chair, swirling the amber liquid in his glass. Across the table, Liam was happily munching on a plate of french fries, bumbling around as usual, while Grayson remained cool and composed, ruminating on his drink with a twinkle in his eye."Alright, Ethan," Liam said, leaning forward dramatically. "Spill it. What's going on with you and Rachel? You’ve been walking around like a lovesick puppy."Ethan exhaled, a wry smile tugging at his lips. "It’s not that simple, Liam. You know I’m engaged to Sophia. But... Rachel, she’s different. She makes me feel alive, like I'm finally able to express myself.Liam clapped a hand on the table. "See? That is the kind of thing that goes into movies about romance. Follow your heart, man! If Rachel’s the one making you feel good, well then go for it. Life’s too short to be stuck with someone like Sophia—no offense.".Grayson arched a brow, setting his glass down. "Liam, you can’t be serious. Ethan, I get it, you’re in
Ethan POV:Ethan walked back into the lounge where Liam and Grayson were waiting, both men looking up as he entered. The tension from earlier still hung in the air, but Liam broke it with a sarcastic grin."Well, if it isn’t the drama magnet himself," Liam said, leaning back in his chair. "Are you here to lecture us or apologize?"Ethan sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Apologize. What happened earlier shouldn’t have gotten out of hand. I’m sorry Sophia dragged you both into this mess." He looked at Liam specifically. "And I’m sorry for what she did to you. You didn’t deserve that."Liam waved a hand dismissively. "Don’t worry about it. I’ve taken worse. But, Ethan, you need to get your head straight. Forget the parents, the company, and Sophia’s tantrums. What do you want? If it’s Rachel, then stop second-guessing yourself. Trust your heart, man, and let the dice roll as they please.Grayson frowned, his expression pensive. "Liam, it’s not that simple. This isn’t just about f
Sophia POV:Sophia fixed her gaze on the drink in her hand, her thoughts swimming in a tide of anger, betrayal, and desperation. Michael sat next to her, leaning on the bar with his typical grin. She loathed that phrase but, right now, she did need him.She glanced at him from the corner of her eye, the memory of how they’d met flickering in her mind.It had been three years ago, during her time abroad. She’d been caught up in a scandal—some ridiculous mix-up involving a stolen designer bag at a high-end party in Milan. The local people showed no interest in her high social status or her histrionic assertion of her innocence.Michael had already been there, using the smooth-talking trait to get to the position. His charm had gotten her out of trouble, and she’d been grateful at the time. In the weeks that followed, they’d crossed paths again at a series of elite events, striking up a casual friendship. He’d seemed interested in her, but she hadn’t taken him seriously. Michael was fun,
Rachel. Morning light streamed through the windows while Rachel placed plates on the dinner table for breakfast. The triplets—Dante, the eldest, Damian., and little Daniella were sitting quietly, flipping through the pages of a new magazine I bought. Rachel’s heart swelled at the sight of them, their giggles filling the room as they shared a secret joke. “Mommy, look!” Daniella’s voice broke through her thoughts. She lifted a shiny sheet, eyes of large, brown orbs almost twinkling with excitement. Ethan, smiling confidently, stood beside her at a recent charity event. She had forgotten how many cameras had been there, capturing every moment. Daniella tilted her head, her little brows furrowing. “Mommy, is he our daddy?” Rachel’s breath hitched, her pulse racing. She tried to reply but her words would not follow. The question hung in the air, heavy and unsettling. “Sweetheart, Rachel said, kneeling beside Daniella, “that’s. Someone I work with. He’s not... he’s not your dad
Ethan POV:Ethan perched at his desk, with his regular cup of morning espresso neglected, observing a row of pictures lining his computer, the screen as his window. Each image was a carefully chosen moment, him and Rachel having lunch, laughing together, the picture he had dinner with Rachel recently, pictures of when he was trying to protect her from those reporters, walking through the streets of Italy during the business trip, and even an image of them in his office.Anger surged through him. The violation of privacy was one thing, but the consequence of leaking those pictures was far more serious. Whoever had taken these photos wasn’t just prying; they were trying to paint a narrative.He took the telephone and dialled his secretary Danny.Moments later, she walked into his office, clipboard in hand. “You called, sir?”Ethan turned his screen to face her. “Who brought these here? These pictures were sent anonymously this morning. Any idea where they came from? And don't tell me yo
Rachel POV:Rachel repositioned the portfolio in her grasp before entering Ethan's office. He was sitting in front of his impressive desk, with his brows furrowed reading some papers. As soon as he raised his eyes and saw her, his face became more mellow, and a faint smile emerged on his lips.“Rachel,” he greeted. “Right on time. Let’s talk about the designs for the fashion walkway.”She settled into the chair opposite him, spreading out her sketches. “I was thinking of incorporating more vibrant colors—something bold, something that screams confidence.Ethan leaned closer, studying the sketches. “I like it. This could be the highlight of the event. By the way," he said, looking at her, "what about your business?Rachel smiled hesitantly. “It’s... going well. There are hiccups, but I’m managing.”Ethan could not answer, as Rachel's cell phone buzzed on the table. Picking the receiver up, her features blanched as she heard the person on the extension cord. “What? Are you serious? I’ll
Sophia POV:The morning sunshine streamed through the large windows of the cafe, bathing the table in a warm light. Sophia delicately sliced into her croissant, her movements precise and poised, while Michael sat across from her, stirring his coffee with a little too much force.Michael, Sophia said, her tone as soothing as honey, "I already have a guy in Ethan's company. That's just a matter of time," it is stated here.Michael paused, his spoon clinking against the porcelain cup. “Who?”Sophia smiled, taking a slow sip of her tea. “Mark. You remember him, don’t you? Ethan’s father’s little lapdog who couldn’t resist a good bribe?Michael sneered, grabbing the basket of loaves and pulling out a loaf. “I’m surprised he’s still useful. What’s his role in all this?”Sophia relaxed into her chair, relishing the strain she was creating. “He’s feeding me insider details. Their current designs they are developing, their future releases, and all of that. All we've gotta do is fall once, and
Sophia POV:The response of the sun beating down as Sophia stepped from her sleek black car was a click of her heels on the pavement at Mavericks & Co. headquarters as she readjusted her sunglasses, taking in the grandeur of the building before striding confidently inside, head held high.The receptionist hall was abuzz. Employees walked briskly, their murmurs culminating into a hum of corporate urgency. Sophia's gaze swept the room, resting on Rachel, who sat stiffly in one of the plush chairs near the receptionist's desk. A smirk curled at the corner of Sophia's lips as she neared her. "Well, well, look who we have here," she said with mock sweetness.Rachel looked up, her eyes narrowing. "Sophia.""What are you still doing here?" Sophia asked with mock concern as she leaned against the counter. "Haven't they shown you the exit yet?"Rachel set her jaw, willing herself to remain calm. "I'm here because Ethan asked me to be.Sophia let out a short, mocking laugh, drawing the attenti
The Maverick headquarters buzzed with activity, the air electric with anticipation. The live TV show was on, showing the company's latest creations to the world. Models glided along the runway, their movements smooth and confident, as the audience sat in complete attention.Rachel's heels clicked on the marble floor of the Maverick headquarters as she glanced at her phone. The live celebration was in progress, and she should have been at the center of it all, raising a glass to the company's latest success. But a sense of disquiet churned at her chest. Something was wrong.Her assistant, Donna, rushed toward her, breathless. "Rachel, there's a problem. The triplets. they're missing."Rachel's universe came to a standstill. "What?"Ethan and I were with our nanny at the event, but she turned around for a moment, and now they're missing."A sense of panic choked Rachel's throat. "Find them! Go through the security cameras. Now!"Donna couldn't respond in time before Rachel's phone buzze
The night air was thick with tension as Sophia sprinted down the dimly lit alleys, her heart racing in her chest. The flashing blue and red lights in the distance made her curse under her breath. "Damn it! That damned woman slipped through my fingers!" she growled, her face contorted in rage. Her hands trembled with rage as she pushed her tangled hair out of her face, her breath coming in short, angry gasps.Police were so near to catching her but due to the fire arm of the individuals working for her, she got away effortlessly. I knew that Rachel wouldn't keep her damn mouth closed.She reached her car, pulled the door open, and slid inside, her hands closing on the steering wheel like a vice, her knuckles whitening. She pounded her fist on the dashboard and let out a growl of frustration. "Rachel, you think you've won? You don't know what's coming next!" Her lips twisted in a sneer as she turned the engine over and peeled off into the night.She knew where she was headed—the police
I had barely caught my breath when I heard her approaching—the cold, hard clack of Sophia's high heels on wet pavement. I braced up, my heart pounding in my head. I knew what I was in for.Out of the shadows, Sophia emerged, her eyes glinting with venomous victory. "You think you could escape, Rachel?" she sneered, the voice cold as broken glass. I didn't have time to react before she was atop me. Her pale, manicured fingers locked onto my shoulders, and I was struck by a brutal blow.I thrashed about, my face completely in pain and terror as Sophia began to beat me. The blows landed with a sickening thud, and I felt the pain spreading across my body. "Your children will pay for this!" she screamed, her voice echoing off the cold walls. "They'll suffer just like you!"Tears obscured my vision as I pleaded on gasping breaths, "Please… stop… please, beg you…" I was raspy, panicked, but she went on mercilessly. Sophia's grin widened with every word spoken, and her sadistically burning e
I glared at my phone's illuminated screen, the thumping in my ears echoing with my heart rate. The headline blazed across the top in big bold letters:"Ethan Greenwood Engaged! Power Couple Takes Center Stage."My hands trembled involuntarily as I took in the news—Rachel Thompson, the woman I had worked so hard to destroy, was now engaged to Ethan. Anger and humiliation boiled within me, and before I even knew it, I'd snorted a fresh line of drugs that had been languishing in my bag.The overdose swept at me like a tidal wave. My vision swirled, and I couldn't bring myself to concentrate, but the acrid taste of failure and jealousy scorched my interior.I slammed my phone on the marble tabletop, my eyes blazing as I recalled every indignity. I had sacrificed everything for power and retribution, and now Ethan was parading his new engagement while I languished here.The bitter mix of chemicals only stoked my anger. I stumbled unsteadily, the room spinning around me, and staggered to th
The night was glowing with golden lights, soft music, and the post-glow of the Mavericks Fashion Walk. But despite the ovation and celebrations, Rachel just could not focus.Her heart kept racing from that evening's incidents—the sabotage try, the arrest of Michael, and the getaway by Sophia. Too much, all of that, but still, in between all that, Ethan had remained her rock.She stood on the edge of the stage, watching as Ethan addressed the media and the audience. His voice was firm, calm, but filled with command as he described what had happened, assuring them that Mavericks was stronger than ever.Rachel sighed softly. How does he always manage to be so calm?As Ethan continued, there was a soft rustling sound off the runway. Rachel's forehead creased in puzzlement.Then they appeared.Children, dressed in immaculate white, each of them with one red rose and one small envelope in hand.Rachel's breath caught in her throat.The children approached her individually, handing over the
The dimly lit hotel back hallway stank of stale carpet and cheap cologne. Rachel stood close to the cold wall, barely breathing as she listened in on the argument happening just down the hall."…We go to the Mavericks Fashion Walk tonight," Michael's deep voice growled, filled with barely controlled anger.Rachel's heart was thudding in her ears. What?!The plan is simple," Michael continued. "We create enough havoc to kill Ethan. Full-blown scandal. Sponsors drop out, investors lose their minds—his empire crumbles in an evening."A second voice—cunning, smooth—spoke. Sophia."And what do we do with Rachel?" she asked, poison in every syllable. "Are we finally ridding ourselves of her?"Rachel's feet left the floor.Michael hesitated for a moment before he said, "If she gets caught in the crossfire, that's on her."Rachel gulped a breath of air.Sophia laughed coldly. "Well, well… finally got some spine, Michael?" She paused, and then went on, "And what about security? You know Ethan
The perfume- and smoke-scented hotel room was shrouded in gloom, the atmosphere thick with tension. Sophia lay back on the velvet couch's rim, her perfectly manicured fingers trembling as she brought a minute pill to her lips. Closing her eyes, she swallowed it, following the bitter aftertaste with a swig of whiskey. Her blonde locks were disheveled, her otherwise flawless appearance marred by the dark smudges under her eyes.The knock on the door barely registered in her dazed mind, but when Michael stepped in, slamming the door behind him, she let out an irritated sigh. “You look like hell,” Michael muttered, scanning the room with distaste. “Smells like it too.” Sophia rolled her eyes and sank deeper into the couch. “You’re always such a gentleman, Michael.”Michael ignored her sarcasm, jaw clenched in frustration as he set a folder on the coffee table. "Our strategy is breaking down," he stated tightly. "Most employees in Emerald Designs want to quit. They're spooked. And the
The police station was unusually quiet for this hour of night, the fluorescent lights shining a cold glare over the tile floors. Ethan entered through the front door, his face as unyielding as stone, his presence commanding. The officers saluted him with respect and caution, knowing the weight his name carried.He hadn't wasted any time on formalities. "How's the case progressing?" His voice was low and gritted with annoyance. "And why, for goodness' sake, did the men you arrested suddenly end up dead?"One of the officers shifted uncomfortably. "We have no idea, Mr. Grayson. Nobody had seen them, and there were no signs of anything unusual."Ethan's jaw clenched. "How did they die?The officer hesitated before responding, “Their bodies have been sent for autopsy. We’ll have more details soon.” Ethan ran a hand through his hair, his frustration mounting. “I want to see the security footage.”Minutes ticked by, and he stood in front of a monitor, arms crossed as he watched the grainy
A jerky movement from the hospital bed made Ethan sit up abruptly. Rachel's fingers spasmed, her eyelids fluttering. Then, suddenly, she began thrashing, gasping in short, shallow breaths."Rachel?" Ethan's chest tightened as he rushed to her side, grasping her hand tightly. "Rachel, can you hear me?"Her body stiffened, then she started struggling, her face twisted in agony. Panic gripped Ethan."Doctor!" he cried hysterically, his voice shaking in terror.The doctors and nurses rushed in, one doctor hurriedly taking Rachel's pulse and the nurses attempting to sedate her. Ethan did not budge, jaw clenched, heart racing inside his chest.Within a few tense minutes, Rachel's breathing normalized. Her body relaxed, her head falling back onto the pillows.One of the doctors glanced over at Ethan and nodded reassuringly. "She's experiencing post-traumatic stress. It occurs in situations like hers. She'll be fine, but she needs to rest. Provided everything goes well, we can release her ton