Chapter: Chapter 7Peace Denied Ethan’s POV “There’s a reason why there's a door,” I barked. “You knock before you open, unless this place is burning, don't disturb me.” “Tough crowd. I expected balloons.” The voice looked very familiar as I looked up to see who it was. “Julian…” My old-time friend was leaning on the door frame, wearing a designer suit with the same old smirk from prep school. “Julian… you’re back. You didn't even let me know,” I said, trying to keep a fake scowl on my face. “Guilty as charged,” he said softly, as we both reached out for another long, tight hug. "When the hell did you get back? I thought you were still busy playing 'International Lawyer' in London.” "Landed an hour ago, I came straight here to see our newlywed man, So, tell me. Is she everything the papers said, or are you already looking for the exit?” "Don't go there," I snapped. "She’s a wife by name only, nothing more.” Julian’s smirk vanished. He sat forward, his eyes narrowing. "A wife b
Terakhir Diperbarui: 2026-02-19
Chapter: Chapter 6The First BattleEthan’s POV I was cooped up in the study all damn day. Buried under this new project and trying to wrap up the final signing on the company's new contracts. THUD! THUD! I nonchalantly asked who it was. “Came to let you know… our new madam’s here, sir,” the maid mumbled through the door. "Fine," I replied, staying exactly where I was. I had no intention of rushing down to see her like some desperate, lovesick fool. By the time I finally headed to my wing, I was tired as hell and all I wanted was a shower and some good sleep. Then I saw it. A thin line of light under my bedroom door. “What took them so long to get the room tidy?” I grumbled, figuring the maids were still in there tidying up. I shoved the door open and nearly lost it. There she was, lying on the bed, shoes on the rug, and hair all messed up on my pillows. Felt like she’d broken into my space and taken over. Her perfume was already filling up every corner of the room. “Why the hell is she in my
Terakhir Diperbarui: 2026-02-13
Chapter: Chapter 5The Cold Welcome Serena’s POV The big iron gates of the Crowe estate opened with a loud hum, and the car drove through. Ethan didn’t come to get me himself. He sent a driver and guards in dark suits. I had to pack my whole life into just one suitcase and two bags by myself. I thought leaving my family home would make me sad, but as I looked out the back window, I didn't feel anything. I knew I wouldn't miss them. The only thing I felt nervous about was the man waiting for me inside. The house was beautiful, like something from a movie, but the air felt cold. I felt small standing next to a building that was built to look scary. Inside, the lights were bright and the floors were shiny. The staff stood in a long, quiet line. They all bowed at once, which felt strange and boring. "That's her…" a maid whispered. "Mr. Ethan's wife?" "Not for love," another whispered back. "It's just a business deal." So, even the staff knew the truth. A young maid walked up with
Terakhir Diperbarui: 2026-02-10
Chapter: Chapter 4Vows and Sides Serena POV The morning air was crisp when Ethan's black car stopped in front of the house. Not even a "hi." Just a nod, like I was a passenger he was being paid to haul. That was the Ethan Crowe I've gotten to know: quiet, controlled, and impossible to ignore. I slid into the car and gripped my bag, eyes locked strictly ahead. It was a lie I couldn't keep. One glance was all it took to notice the crisp suit and the lethal precision of his hair. Then there was his gaze: stormy, gray, and so heavy it felt like he was reading my secrets right through my skin. "I prefer to skip the ceremony," he said as the engine started. "Marriage certificates are enough." I nodded in agreement. I also preferred it simple and clean; no pretending to be in love. The silence that followed wasn't awkward; it was heavy and final. Today made everything real. There was no going back. The Marriage Council building was bright and sterile, with white walls and glass counters. Staff memb
Terakhir Diperbarui: 2026-02-10
Chapter: Chapter 3 Contracts and Complications *Ethan's POV* The meeting had already been decided. Both our fathers had arranged the location, time, and outcome. A familiar buzz broke the silence; I didn't even need to look to know it was my father calling again. Whatever patience I had left vanished. I took the call, already exhausted by the nonsense I knew was coming. "Seven tonight. The Capital Grill," he said without greeting. "Don't keep that pretty girl waiting," "I've heard you," I said, jaw locked. The call ended. I slammed the phone onto the desk, exhaled once, and stood up, leaving for the Capital Grills restaurant. There was no choice left but to face the truth. I arrived exactly at seven on the dot. The entire upstairs had been reserved, it was a quiet luxury with muted lighting and polished wood, Ten minutes had vanished, and she was still nowhere to be found. Glancing at my watch yet again, a flare of resentment rose in my chest. She was late, and I wasn't the type
Terakhir Diperbarui: 2026-02-10
Chapter: Chapter 2Choices and Consequences Serena's POV Antiseptic and stale food hit me the moment I stepped inside. My palms burned, stained red from the weight of the bags filled with Grandma's favorites: honey peanuts and sesame crackers. Room 317 I pushed the door open with a smile. "Grandma, I'm here." She turned slowly, her cloudy eyes searching my face. "I… can I help you?" The polite, distant tone broke my heart. Alzheimer's had stolen the woman who raised me, leaving only fragments. "It's me, Serena. Your Seri." Her brows knitted. "I don't think I know you." I set the snacks down, my voice thick. "It's okay. I'm your granddaughter. I used to steal your peanuts when you weren't looking." Her eyes flickered. "Seri…?" At my nod, her frail, trembling hand brushed my cheek. She let out a weak chuckle. As I laid out the crackers, the television in the corner caught my eye. A familiar name flashed across the screen: Damien Crowe. He was glued to Lila Hale's side amidst a se
Terakhir Diperbarui: 2026-02-10
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