LOGINBy the time I returned to the penthouse, the sun had begun to disappear behind the surrounding buildings. I unlocked the door and stepped inside, placing my handbag on the console table."Julian?""In here."I followed his voice into the living room. He was seated on the sofa, a laptop resting on his knees. He looked up when I entered, closing it almost immediately."Well?"I tried to maintain a straight face. "Terrible."His eyebrows drew together. "Seriously?"I held the expression for another second before laughing. "I'm joking.”He leaned back. "You're a terrible person.""It went well.""How well?"I sat opposite him, unable to hide my excitement. "Mr Whitmore wants a detailed proposal. They're considering a partnership, and he specifically mentioned working with me directly."Julian's expression softened. "That's excellent, Audrey.""I know. And I think I might actually have a chance of making something substantial out of this.""You will."I looked at him. He wasn't smiling in
It wasn't every day someone reached out with an opportunity like this, particularly someone whose family had considerable influence in the investment community.I was still contemplating my response when Julian walked into my office. "You're unusually quiet."I looked up. "Am I?""Very."He placed a folder on my desk. "These are the documents you requested.""Thank you."His eyes briefly settled on my phone. "Something interesting?"I hesitated before handing it to him. “Apparently, I've been invited to a private investment meeting."He read the message, his eyebrows lifting slightly. "Whitmore?""You know them?""Of course. Their investment group has interests in several industries."I retrieved my phone. "Do you think I should go?"Julian gave me a questioning look. "Why wouldn't you?""I don't know. It's a private meeting. I'm not entirely sure what to expect.""Then find out."I frowned. "That's your advice?”" Would you prefer that I write a detailed report?"I rolled my eyes. H
In fact, I was beginning to enjoy myself."Your wife seems rather knowledgeable," Mr Whitmore remarked when Julian returned.I smiled, ignoring what he had just called me. "I'd like to think so."Julian glanced at me. "She usually knows exactly what she's talking about.""Usually?" I repeated.He gave me an innocent expression. "Would you prefer always?""Much better."Mr Whitmore laughed.I was beginning to understand something about Julian. He knew when to speak, when to remain quiet and, more importantly, how to make people feel comfortable without appearing desperate for their approval.It was a skill I hadn't expected from someone who supposedly worked as my personal assistant.Before I could dwell on it, a familiar voice interrupted us."Well, if it isn't my wife."I turned. Nathan stood before us, the blonde woman still holding his arm. His expression carried that familiar, infuriating confidence."Good evening, Nathan."His eyes moved towards Julian. "Vance.""Hayes."Nathan
“Where you look like you have something to say but decide against saying it."A faint smile touched his lips. "Perhaps I simply have nothing to say."I narrowed my eyes. "You're very annoying.""I've been told."I looked away, pretending to be interested in the television.The truth was, I didn't particularly enjoy discussing Nathan. Not because I still wanted him, but because there were things I hadn't entirely worked through.The humiliation. The betrayal. The years I had spent convincing myself that if I tried a little harder, perhaps things would improve.I didn't want to revisit any of it. Especially not with Julian. Thankfully, my phone vibrated before either of us could continue the conversation.I reached for it. An invitation had arrived in my email. It was from the Sterling Foundation, inviting me to an exclusive charity reception scheduled for the following weekend. The event would bring together several prominent business figures, philanthropists and members of New York's h
Author’s POVHe remembered the way she had looked at him when he approached her. Calm. Unbothered. Almost dismissive. It was infuriating.For years, he had known exactly how to get a reaction from her. A cold remark, an unanswered call or a few carefully chosen words had always been enough.Now, she barely seemed interested. And Julian was encouraging it. Nathan turned away from the window. "Richard.""Yes?""I want a complete background check on Julian Vance. His family, his finances, his education, previous employment, business associations. Everything." Richard nodded. "Understood."Nathan returned to his desk and picked up the tablet, “"And Richard?”The associate paused at the door. "Yes, sir?"Nathan's expression was cold. "Find out everything there is to know about that man. I don't care how long it takes or who you have to speak to."Richard gave a short nod. "I'll get on it immediately."The door closed behind him. Nathan remained seated, staring at the tablet without actuall
Author's POVNathan Hayes hated being ignored. It was an unpleasant feeling, one he had rarely experienced in his life. People usually waited for his attention, sought his approval and made considerable efforts to remain in his good graces. He was accustomed to being the most important man in any room he entered.Yet, for the better part of the evening, his wife had managed to make him feel entirely irrelevant. He stood near the bar, his fingers wrapped around a glass of whiskey, watching Audrey laugh at something Julian had whispered into her ear.Again. His jaw tightened.There was something particularly irritating about the sight. Audrey had always been beautiful, but lately, she seemed determined to remind everyone of it. She wore expensive dresses with effortless confidence, carried herself differently and spoke to influential people without constantly looking towards him for approval.And Julian Vance was always there. Nathan took a long drink. He had expected Audrey to put up a







