Chapter 5 New Man

Eloise

A week ago…..

A feeling of warmth settled over me as I looked up, only to realise it was Mike’s arm wrapped around me for balance, his face shadowed but unmistakably kind as he settled me on the bed.

The nightclub’s bass still echoed in my ears as I blinked in the dim lighting of the hotel room, the room swaying lightly.

How did I get here? I can't tell.

"All men are trash, you know?" i muttered, clinking my glass to his in a bitter toast.

“Is that so?” He chuckled, his gaze soft and unintrusive.

“Not... not all, maybe,” i admitted reluctantly. “But the kind I keep meeting? Yeah. Definitely trash.” I laughed, though there was no humor in my voice.

I had been talking too much, I know, but it was as if once I start, there is no stopping.

“Seven years of marriage,” i continued, shaking my head, “Gone in an instant, and for what? A spark with an old lover, my stepsister!” I looked away, focusing on the golden lights. “Turns out I was... disposable.”

“Eloise...” Mike started, his voice low, a bit pained.

I shrugged, too weary to cover my scars with pride.

“I’m sorry. You didn't have to hear this.”

But he only nodded, a reassuring smile curving his lips.

“Maybe I don’t mind.”

I let myself fall back onto the plush bed, a rare careless laugh escaping me.

“I must be quite the mess,” I mumbled, half to myself.

He sat down beside me. He took my hand in his.

“Not at all. You’re just… feeling what you’re supposed to feel. No one has the right to take that from you.” He replied, his face a mix of concern.

His words, gentle and without judgement, felt like balm on a wound I didn't even know I was carrying.

Moments after, I watched him rise, preparing to leave.

Unexpectedly, and before I could think twice, I reached for his hand, holding onto him tightly.

“ Sor-ry, didn't— mean to” My voice smaller than i wanted it to be, I wanted him to stay but I didn't want to push it.

He looked down at me, surprise flashing his face, but it was quickly replaced by something else—something warmer, something deeper.

Slowly, he settled back down, his hand moving to cup her cheek.

“If you want me to stay, I will,” He said.

I nodded, my heart pounding as my eyes held his.

“Yes,” i whispered, my voice barely audible.

We were so so close, his face only inches from mine. He leaned forward, brushing his lips against mine, the warmth of my breath mingling with his in a gentle, tentative way.

His hands slid over my shoulders, tracing my arms, his touch featherlight.

I breathed in sharply, feeling his fingertips press slightly firmer against my skin, grounding me, a reminder this was real.

Our kiss deepened, I felt his lips trail from my mouth to my jawline, neck, each kiss sending a shiver my spine. I clung to him, my arms wrapping around his neck.

“Tell me to stop,” he murmured against my skin, his voice low, thick with restraint.

“Don’t,” I replied, almost breathless. I met his gaze, my eyes daring him to go further. The night took a steamy turn from there......

THE PRESENT

I could feel my cheeks flush with embarrassment, I was mortified, heat rising to my cheeks as I darted my eyes anywhere but his face.

Of course, he noticed.

“Are you blushing?” He said, his tone playful, his smile a hint of mischief, but his gaze softened as it settled on me.

I could practically feel his amusement radiating, which only made my cheeks burn hotter.

“Absolutely not,” I whispered, brushing a strand of hair behind my ear.

“Oh?” He leaned in closer, just enough to catch my gaze, his eyes sparkling.

“Because it looks like you’re remembering something.”

“Well, I…” I hesitated, flustered. But there was no escape; He looked far too entertained by my embarrassment.

But then a familiar, unwelcoming voice broke into the moment.

“Enjoying yourself, Eloise?”

My heart sank, I turned to see Lucian standing there, a mocking smirk playing on his lips. He looked impeccably polished in his dark suit, as always, his appearance all perfect lines and controlled arrogance.

I steeled herself, reminding myself to stay calm.

“Surprised?” he drawled, his eyes narrowing as he took in the scene, his gaze lingering on Mike for just a second before his attention returned to me.

“Seems like you have plenty of time for parties these days. Who’s watching Max tonight, eh? Or did you leave him with someone else so you could play socialite?”

I could feel my knots twist, my anger bubbling inside. I met his gaze directly, forcing my voice to stay calm.

“Someone? Max is with his grandma! And since when did you care so much about him?”

He laughed, a low sound that had once charmed me but now felt empty and cruel.

“His grandma right?” He shook his head, a mocking smile still in place. He muttered something like “See why I never wanted you to take him with you”.

I gritted my teeth.

“At least his grandma is always there for him, Lucian. Can you say the same? When was the last time you actually spent time with Max, beyond just a photo op? Do you even know what his favourite colour is?”

His smirk faltered, only for a second.

“I have obligations, Eloise. You knew that when we got married.”

“Obligations?” I couldn’t help the sarcasm that slipped into my tone. “More like excuses. Obligations that kept you away from your son almost every time, you couldn't even squeeze him between your business trips and your stupid affairs.”

“Watch your mouth, Eloise. Funny how you suddenly seem to have a lot to say about what’s ‘best’ for Max." He said, his smile sharp.

Before i could respond, I felt Mike step closer, his silent support was as reassuring as it was unexpected.

The way he looked at Lucian was cold, assessing, like he was quietly evaluating every word and expression.

Lucian’s eyes finally shifted, taking in Mike fully for the first time, though there was no hint of recognition on his face.

“And who’s this?” he asked, his tone dripping with faux politeness. “Your new… friend?”

“None of your business!” I retorted, my tone sharp.

“Wow! Just wow!” Lucian’s tone was anything but sincere, his gaze flicking between the two of us with a hint of disdain.

“Eloise?"

I turned and there stood Jennifer, eyes glinting with barely concealed malice. Her hand rested casually on Lucian’s arm, her posture relaxed as if I was going to snatch her man.

My eyes narrowed as Jennifer continued, her voice dripping with sarcasm.

“Wow, Sis. It didn't take you quite long to find a replacement. Just few weeks after your divorce and already… a new man?”