A

metal of the door handle. I paced back and forth, trying to decide whether to go in.

why can't you consider this deal as

wasn't about me anymore; it was for my daughter's future. Tak

he past. I had a goal, and nothing was going to stop me from reaching it. I moved swif

e door. I didn't look back. I walked

yes scanning me briefly before he masked his surprise with that all-t

r William," I said, my vo

esk, waiting for him to get to the poin

esk between us. I didn't look up, keeping my attention on the paper

ct," he said, his

ipped open the folder and scanned the contract quickly. I

was looking for, I pick

No single question.**..Yes, I adde

ought. This was business, and I wasn't ab

***

. I let them do their work, stepping into the new persona they were c

ving another form of

of her peeked out from the corner of my bag. I couldn't help but reach for it. Staring at her bright

hattered when Raymond'

your da

my head slightly and hissed, refusing to answer him. The stylists and models around us,

s Raymond fee

eave the room, Raymond grabbed my wrist,

part of the contract rules. And just so you know, bringing past emotions into th

ear bold. I hadn't expected him to react so sharply. His wor

stiff, and his every step carried authority. But just as he r

new apartment," he said. "I hope he told you

ked out, his commanding presence fi

d feel the stylists and models watching me, but the m

kward silence. I grabbed it from the table a

llo

hrough the speaker. My heart warmed instantly,

happiness making me feel lighter. I couldn't let her k

th grace and handle myself like someone who belonged at high-profile event

ning room, ready to head home. But as I entered the mini sitting room

his arms. His lips were on hers, and his hands roamed her

t was anger or disgust-or maybe both. Either way, I froze, wat

t, trying to ignore the emotions swirling ins

n't be