Chapter 4

Zaden's POV...

Mila had just dashed off to the bathroom, leaving behind the faint scent of her perfume and the echo of everything that had just happened between us. I was still reeling — not just from the hangover pounding behind my eyes, but from the realization of who she really was.

The woman I’d tangled sheets with, the one whose skin I’d traced with my fingertips just hours ago… was Mr. Grayson's daughter.

After what Alex had dropped on me last night — news that turned my entire world on its head — I’d drowned myself in one too many drinks. I remember the haze, the heat, the feel of her lips against mine. But I never expected her. Not Mila.

I didn't know she was so drunk last night….. but how could I have known when I too was also wasted.

I had to step out of the room to meet up with Alex. I wanted him to find out how I ended up in bed with Miss Grayson, for all I know, it could also be a scheme of her father, but a part of me strongly doubted that, reflecting on the passionate night we had shared.

Upon my arrival back at my room, I noticed she was already gone along with her things. I expected it to happen and part of me was also grateful. I wasn't the kind of guy to give women closure after sex or profess love and all that. I had women take care of my needs solely for the need of a release and nothing more.

I had to admit to myself that I had quite enjoyed teasing Mila after I saw the shock on her face waking up next to me. I knew she was the daughter Mr Grayson doted on. I took her for the type of girl who would only have sexual relations with someone she loves, professed feelings and all that stuff. So I knew better than to stay clear of her, as I wasn't big on the idea of love and relationships.

Felix was a typical spoiled son. I had always avoided doing business with his family for years, as they say, "The apple doesn't fall too far from the tree”. My family is really wealthy, but from the age of 18. I had already started my own company not wanting to depend solely on anyone or my family name.

Upon my arrival at the office, I was greeted by my grandmother. I already guessed she would show up today at the office, but I didn't expect it to be this early. My grandmother was the closest I had to a mother. 

"Zaden, you didn't come visit us yesterday. Your grandfather and I waited for you all day". She said with sadness in her eyes.

"Sorry, Grandma, that I kept you and Grandad waiting. I had a work-related event to attend”.

“Zaden, when will you settle down? Not only do we need an heir to continue the Blackwell empire, but we worry for you”".

“You are always so busy with work. Your grandad and I won't be here forever, you know that. We want you to be happy with someone you love and a family of your own".

"I am perfectly happy the way I am, besides, I have been swamped at work with ZDN Corp's new acquisition. It has been so hectic “. Not that I was complaining.

“Well, your Grandad and I have come to a decision by next month if you don't introduce any lady to us. You will have to get engaged to Candace "".

"She is a decent girl from a wealthy family. I don't know why you wouldn't want to marry her. You wouldn't want to make us unhappy Zaden”. She said in a stern voice.

I and Candace practically grew up together. We had attended the same school and even college. We have always been nothing more than friends. Though we had had sex a few times, it was purely casual, and I had told her from the beginning that nothing would ever happen between us, so she knew the deal. 

“You can't be serious!”. I said with a frown though I kept my tone calm.

“Oh! Yes, we are serious and our minds are made up. You won't want to make us unhappy Zaden, trust me. We need an heir for goodness' sake! You can't expect the Blackwell Empire to really end with you”. She now had a mischievous smirk on her lips. 

As soon as my Grandmother had left. Alex came with some news about me and Miss Grayson's night together. My mind unconsciously trailed to the memories of the night I could remember.

Alex had given me CCTV footage of how she ended up in my room. From the footage, it looked like she actually mistook my room for hers.

“Thank you Alex. But please still keep watch on Miss Grayson to be sure they aren't up to anything mischievous”. He simply gave a curt nod and left the office.

I was so caught up in work that I didn’t check the time until my phone rang.

It was Candace on the line. I allowed the phone to ring as I wasn't in the mood to speak with her at the moment. I let out a breath, remembering my grandmother's warning.

 I actually didn't want to make my grandparents unhappy. After all, they were all I had. With everything my Grandmother said, I knew she had a point. Yet I couldn't see myself in love or in a relationship with someone, like she expected me to.

My phone kept buzzing with Candace's calls. I couldn't care less what she wanted from me. She knew the deal with what we had between us, though I knew she thought by now I would have changed my mind, but I just wasn't interested in having a relationship with her or any other person.

I needed a solution and one fast.