ELOISEThe lights dimmed in the event hall as we took our seats at one of the tables, and silence enveloped the crowd. A spotlight illuminated the first item to be auctioned—a centuries-old painting named "Whispers of the Wildwood" by the artist Edmund Harlowe, donated by a businessman. It's a landscape painting that transports viewers into a serene forest scene, lit only by fireflies. The painting portrays a deep, lush woodland with untouched beauty. The auction's proceeds this evening will be distributed to orphanages, children with illnesses, and homes for the aged.The auctioneer, Jack, a charismatic man in a tailored tuxedo, stood beside the artwork. He began narrating the painting's history, its importance in the art world, and the artist's masterful technique.Wealthy collectors, art enthusiasts, and investors in the room raised their paddles, each bid raising the price higher and higher. I moved closer to Adam. "Aren't you going to tell me what's going on? What business do y

ELOISE "Here." Adam offered me a cup of hot tea when we entered the suite he was staying in. The place was well-lit and warm, just like him. He took a seat in front of me, gently tucking a few strands of my hair behind my ear as he observed me. I took a sip of the tea, and relief washed over me. "I'm sorry I got you involved in my issues. He grunted. "Anyone would get involved if they witnessed that. I told you he's lucky I left him alive." "You're not a monster like him." His pupils darkened. "Oh, you have no idea." “How did you know he followed me in the restroom?” “Your friend saw him.” Oh, Nina. She had already saved me so much. I glanced around his spacious suite. "This is a nice place. Thanks for bringing me here.” "You're welcome." He kissed my forehead and stood up again. "You can use the bedroom whenever you feel like resting. I have the bathroom ready too. Did you want anything else?” I shook my head. "Maybe a snack? Thank you.” “Anytime.” He walked to the kitche

ADAMI woke up to my ringtone in the late hours of dawn. I had finally been enjoying a good night's sleep, knowing the red-haired angel was safe in the bedroom. I was worried as hell, and my knuckles stung from pounding on the fucking baron's face earlier.I checked my phone, and it was only three o'clock in the morning, with Zoey's name displayed on my screen. I frowned; she never called me unannounced.I answered, "What is it, Zoey?""Why would you do this? I… I just don't understand, and I'm so confused. I want to be honest with you all the time. I'm sorry for intruding. You can punish me if you wish, but how did it come to this?""What are you talking about? I had no desire to punish you, Zoey." Not anymore. Honestly, I had no idea what to do with Zoey right now. She was the least of my concerns.She moaned. "It's because of her you've lost track of our plans."I sighed heavily, running my fingers through my hair. "Hold on. Where are you? Have you been drinking?""I'm at the bar..

ADAM One week ago… I sat in Rafe’s office on the day I decided to follow after Eloise. Something about her that always drew me in. Holding the background investigation check papers in my hand, I now knew she wasn’t just an ordinary person with a decent job in New York. I couldn’t explain why, but I always felt this overwhelming urge to uncover every piece of her story. It was almost as if logic took a backseat as I now held my passport. “As if you don’t know,” I smirked, “you’re going to ask me why I used the services of your private investigator.” He raised an eyebrow inquisitively. “Dad has been inquiring about Generations. And although you’re doing your job well, I know you’re up to something again. So, who is this Eloise Walker?” I knew well that he would read those papers before I had the chance to. After all, he was the one who delivered them to me. “It doesn’t have anything to do with Generations. She simply works there,” I said with a shrug. I knew exactly where this co

ELOISE I didn’t stand. Why should I? I had no idea what would happen next. Logan Cunningham needed me to become Malcolm. He died without pursuing his own dreams. In this family, we were just puppets. The aristocracy and traditions would imprison me. If I let this happen, I would lose myself. “Eloise, my dear. Stand up, please,” my dad said, motioning toward me. Suddenly, all the guests turned their attention to me. I looked at Adam, hoping he had a plan to help me. “I had something up in my sleeve, but we didn’t expect your father to introduce you right in the middle of dinner.” “What should we do then? What should I say?” I hissed. The rush was burning in my blood, and everyone was waiting for something to happen. “Eloise?” my dad called again, and I felt my feet moving on their own as I rose from my seat. “There she is, my darling girl,” he said, opening his arms proudly. I glanced at Davina and my grandmother, who both had a poker face. I wasn’t sure if they wanted me here