All Chapters of The billionaire I wasn't supposed to love : Chapter 11 - Chapter 20

The announcement came faster than Evie expected. Within two weeks of Aiden’s agreement, the Scott and Hawthorne families had arranged a lavish engagement party at one of the city’s most exclusive venues. The ballroom was transformed into a vision of opulence: crystal chandeliers, fresh white roses everywhere, and tables draped in silk. It was meant to be a celebration. To Evie, it felt like a funeral. She stood near the edge of the room in a pale blue gown that made her look ethereal and fragile. Her long dark hair was pinned up elegantly, but her eyes were distant. The whispers from the gala had evolved into open speculation, but tonight everyone smiled politely, pretending the union was perfect. Aiden looked devastatingly good in his tailored black tuxedo. He stood beside Isabella at the centre of the room, accepting congratulations with the cold, commanding presence the business world feared. Isabella was radiant in a sparkling silver gown, her hand resting possessively on his

Evie walked through the campus gates the next morning, the weight of Isabella’s demands pressing on her like a heavy cloak. The rumors had not died down. Whispers followed her across the walkways. Students glanced at their phones and then at her. She kept her head high, but inside she felt exposed and exhausted. Lila met her near the main building. “You look like you didn’t sleep. What happened after I left yesterday?” Evie shook her head. “Isabella made things clear. I have to keep my distance from Aiden in public. Act like the perfect sister. Help with the wedding when she asks.” Lila’s eyes widened. “She threatened you?” Evie nodded but didn’t elaborate. They walked to class in silence. During the lecture, Evie stared at her notebook, the words blurring. When the professor announced the group project pairings, Damien turned to her with a hopeful smile. “Still good with partnering up?” he asked after class. “We can meet at the library later to outline the presentation.”

Morning sunlight streamed through the tall windows of the Scott mansion, bathing the elegant dining room in a warm golden glow. Crystal chandeliers sparkled overhead, reflecting off polished marble floors and the long mahogany table where breakfast had already been served.The atmosphere, however, was anything but warm.Vivian Scott at the head of the table, reading the morning business newspaper while sipping her coffee. A maid spread strawberry jam over her slice of toast, after serving her, she went back to the kitchen to continue her chores.Aiden was already seated, dressed in a charcoal suit despite the early hour. His breakfast remained untouched as he scrolled absentmindedly through emails on his tablet. Every few seconds, his mind drifted back to the previous night's argument with Evie."Please don't touch me... I just want to stay away from you."Her words still echoed painfully in his ears. He hadn't slept. Not even for an hour.The sound of footsteps drew everyone's atten

The university campus buzzed with vibrant energy. Colourful streamers floated from building to building, swaying gently in the cool morning breeze. In the central courtyard, booths festooned with bright banners showcased games, delicious food, handcrafted goods, and exciting fundraising activities. Music flowed from speakers near the main stage, mingling with students' laughter and volunteers' lively chatter as they hurried from one task to the next. Students with tripods and cameras captured the day's lively spirit, sharing videos on social media and creating lasting memories. The annual charity festival had officially begun.For most students, it was simply another tradition.For Evie, it was a welcome distraction.She adjusted the volunteer badge clipped neatly to her blouse as she walked toward the silent auction booth, balancing a clipboard in one hand and a box of bidding sheets in the other."Need a hand?"She turned to find Damien jogging toward her, carrying two large carton

The house was unusually quiet.A soft drizzle tapped against the tall windows of the Scott mansion, painting the morning in shades of grey. The clouds hung low over the city, making it feel as though the day itself had awakened reluctantly. Evie barely noticed.She stood in front of the bathroom mirror, staring at the reflection looking back at her.The girl in the mirror looked... tired.There were faint shadows beneath her eyes, and her complexion had lost its usual warmth.She splashed cold water across her face."You're fine."She had repeated those words so many times that they had become second nature.Fine. Strong. Unbothered.She believed that if she kept saying them long enough, maybe one day they'd be true.A knock sounded on her bedroom door."Miss Evie?" Maria, one of the housekeepers, called gently. "Breakfast is ready.""I'll be down in a minute."She reached for the edge of the sink when a sudden wave of dizziness swept over her.The room tilted. Her grip tightened on t