ELOISE The emerald green Chanel dress, even though I had to force myself into it, fit perfectly to my body like it was made for me. I reluctantly appreciated Chase’s superficial move. Trina and I arrived at the event hall in the building. The entrance hall had been completely transformed into an enchanting wonderland, featuring the evolution of animation in television and film over the years. This was showcased through standee props, arches, people dressed in cosplay, and a massive LED screen that dazzled the guests. “Generations Unveiled” was displayed in bold gold letters above the entrance, and inside, the halls were alive with the presence of media, celebrities, and artists. As an art director myself, it was delightful to see the fruits of my team’s labor turn into a resounding success. However, before we proceeded further, I left a text message for Adam. I wish you were here. After all, your family owns Generations now. After hitting send, I discreetly tucked my pho

ELOISE Sure, I wouldn’t bring up the subject with Adam. We weren’t in a serious enough phase to be concerned like an obsessed girlfriend. I couldn’t even label myself as such. Our relationship was solely based on a deal, and that took precedence over caring about Adam’s personal life. I had to establish some boundaries for myself. Eventually, he would be gone, just like the other redheads who came into his life. In the meantime, I could enjoy having that delicious specimen of a man all to myself, even if I knew it wouldn’t last. It wouldn’t be so bad to ask Chase about him and just let things be, right? As we walked together, Chase accompanied me until we reached my block, sobering up from a few shots of drinks. The street was quiet, and the night had a mild temperature, reminiscent of our college dating days. “I don’t think Adam would tell me about this if I ask him, and I won’t bring it up with him, either.” “You have to try at some point, right?” Chase said. “But not right

ELOISE Chase picked me up at six in front of my house, as promised. The Sebastian estate was on Long Island, so we had plenty of time to talk as we rode. I briefly told him about my arrangement with Adam. “Are you out of your mind?” Chase glanced at me, then focused on the road. “I would be crazier if I agreed to marry the asshole my father wants me to marry.” “There has to be another way.” “There was no other way back then. You know my dad. You almost lost your college scholarship because you were my boyfriend. He threatened to ruin Zoey’s parents’ lives. I don’t know how, but I believe he could. He has connections, and he’s trying to expand them even further now.” I barely escaped the viscount’s clutches. He only left me alone because he had Malcolm. He kept me in New York because the Cunninghams were ashamed of me, and I only realized that now upon meeting my grandmother. “Yes, I remember. The dean actually sent me an email, and I couldn’t believe it. I had 4.0 GPAs and was

ELOISE The only problem was that I didn’t know how to leave this private remote estate. But just when I thought I hadn’t been noticed, Chase had to spot me. “Eloise?” What should I do now? Should I come up with an excuse? Should I explain why I was leaving? I should just go. I quickened my pace and continued walking, trusting my instincts. “Hey, El!” I pretended not to hear and quickened my pace. The door was already in sight. “I told you to stop.” He grabbed my hand and spun me around. “I shouldn’t have come here. I should’ve trusted my instincts.” “So you’re just going to walk away?” I tried to pull my hand back, but his grip only tightened. “If you won’t help me, let me leave.” “At this hour? It’s nearly midnight. I brought you here, so we’re leaving together.” I took a deep breath and managed to calm down. “Can we go back now?” “Before we do that, tell me what’s wrong. Is it Blaire? I saw her followed you.” “Who is she?” I shook my head in disappointment, then raised

ELOISE The weekend stretched before me, but then I ended up feeling down. The roughness of the sex, the lingering regret in my chest, and our conversation replaying in my thoughts. I stayed locked inside my house, binge-watching a series with complicated storylines I couldn’t understand. The characters on the screen moved through their lives with a purpose and direction I wanted to relate to, but I remained trapped in a state of darkness, trying to figure out what to do next. I also listened to pop music that provided comfort and convinced myself I was okay. But when a sad song played, my heart felt like it was being torn apart again. I grabbed the vanilla ice cream from the coffee table and scooped spoonfuls while zoning out to the TV. Jenna was beside me, going on and on about this guy Rover she just met. I nodded absentmindedly, barely hearing what she said as I tried to make the ache in my chest disappear. “Hey, are you even listening?” “Of course, but how long will you keep