Chapter Thirty-Two

Past

I t’s unfair. And absolutely wrong. Being fooled by a man who means the world to you. Dad shouldn’t have done this.

When I received Dad’s message asking me to meet for dinner, I reluctantly canceled my date with Damian. After my hasty exit from his celebration party three weeks ago, I’d been avoiding his calls. That had put a strain on our relationship because I never went without talking to him for three weeks straight. I was sad and I knew Dad felt the same way. He wanted to mend the rift between us, and this dinner was his attempt to reach out.

Despite my reservations, I knew it was needed. After all, I couldn’t blame him for Nadine and Melissa’s behavior. I love him too much to let this divide us any longer.

As I stepped into the lavish, dimly lit restaurant, two impeccably dressed hosts immediately approached me and led me a secluded, elegantly set table in a corner.

My heart stopped for a second when I found Edward waiting for me instead of my father. It hit me like a ton of bricks—I’d been set up.

When Edward rose from his seat, his smile wide and confident, I had to keep my composure. It was hard. This was bad. And yet I couldn’t blame Edward. He was clearly very excited to see me. What dad did wasn’t fair to me but it wasn’t Edward’s fault.

That’s why I instead of leaving, I decided to stay. I wanted to reach for my phone and call Dad. I wanted to confront him but I couldn’t.

I should have seen it coming when Dad asked me to be Edward’s date for the party back then. He must have been trying to set us up all along.

Edward reaches across the table, his hand gently covering mine. I can’t help but flinch slightly at the unexpected touch. He doesn’t seem to notice, or if he does, he doesn’t say anything.

“I’m really glad you’re here,” he says, his eyes meeting mine with a smile. “I’ve been looking forward to this all week.”

All week? Dad had only texted me about this last night. How long had they been planning this? Guilt starts to gnaw at me. It wouldn’t be right to continue deceiving him as well. I should tell him about Dad’s match making. I don’t want to lead Edward on and give him any wrong signals.

I manage a smile. “I didn’t expect to see you here tonight.”

Edward’s smile doesn’t falter. Instead, it seems to grow more assured. “Yeah, I know. Uncle Christopher thought it would be nice to surprise you.”

As he speaks, it dawns on me that Edward knew I was unaware of the setup and chose not to inform me. Why didn’t he say something? I don’t know what to make of this.

I jump when I feel his lips against my knuckles. “I can’t deny that I was in on the surprise,” he admits. “But I don’t feel guilty about it. In fact, I’m glad your dad suggested this. I’ve been wanting to spend more time with you, and I hope this isn’t too forward, but I really like you.” His eyes hold mine.

My face reddens, caught off guard by his boldness. I shift uncomfortably in my seat.

In a subtle, clumsy motion, I gently withdraw my hand from his and reach for the sparkling water. “I... I appreciate your honesty, Edward,” I manage to say before taking healthy swigs. Then, “I just... wasn’t expecting this.” I avoid his gaze, focusing on the plate of food in front of me.

Edward’s expression remains composed. “I understand,” he says smoothly. “This might be unexpected for you, but our fathers have always envisioned a union between us.”

My eyes fly up, meeting his. “What do you mean by that?”

Edward leans back. “You know exactly what I mean. Marriage. Our families already work as one unit in the business world. But there’s more to gain. A union between us would strengthen the bond, ensuring our empire’s legacy. It will solidify our families’ alliance and would set a foundation for the future.”

For a moment, I just sit there like a statue. I can’t believe it. I simply cannot. I don’t know how long I stayed frozen but when I snap out of the shock, I ask, “Are you for real, or is this some kind of sick joke? Does my father even know about this?”

His sleek brows arch at that question. “Of course he does. Our fathers have discussed this at length.”

I suck in a breath. How could my father do this without even talking to me? The man I’ve always trusted and looked up to, the one I thought was closest to me, has orchestrated this entire setup behind my back. I feel betrayed. How could he think I would be okay with this? I thought we had a great relationship, one built on unconditional love, mutual respect and open communication. But now, I’m questioning everything.

And marriage? Edward is talking about marriage as if it’s just another business deal, another merger to strengthen our empire. My stomach churns at the thought. I can’t believe this is happening. I’m already with Damian. And now, Dad is forcing me to consider an arranged marriage for the sake of business?

“He never mentioned anything about this to me,” I say numbly.

“I understand it might be surprising, but your dad thought it would be best to approach this naturally. He didn’t want to pressure you.”

He didn’t want to pressure me? My eyes sting. He didn’t want to pressure me but he did end up cornering me. I begin shaking my head. “But Edward, I’m only twenty. This seems like a lot to consider at my age, don’t you think?”

I desperately want to set him straight. I want to tell him about Damian. But how do I do that without revealing too much?

How do I explain that I am in love with my father’s business rival? How would Edward or my father understand when they are forcing me to consider an arranged marriage for the said business.

How do I explain that I’m in love with the man they all conspired to invite and humiliate, especially my dad? How do I tell him that the man who had the courage to defend me against the cruel remarks—when even Edward and my father didn’t—is the one I want to share my life with? How?

Edward’s smile remains steady. “You’re going to turn twenty-one in a few months. You’re more mature than most people I know, and you’ve grown up in the same world I have. You understand the responsibilities.”

His casual dismissal of my age makes my face flush with a mix of embarrassment and fury. “That’s not the point, Edward. Just because I’m almost twenty-one doesn’t mean I’m ready for this kind of commitment.”

Edward leans forward slightly, his tone smooth and persuasive. “I get it, really. It’s a lot to take in. But think about it—we’re in a unique position. Our union isn’t just about us. It’s about ensuring the future of everything our families have worked for. You’re not alone in this, and I’ll be there to support you every step of the way.”

“Edward,” I attempt to control the panic that’s building inside me. I take a deep breath, summoning my courage. “I never really thought of you in that way,” I say, my voice wobbling. “And right now, I want to focus on school and other priorities.”

“I appreciate your honesty. I’m willing to be patient, to give you the time you need.”

But I don’t need time!

I stop my leg that was bouncing under the table uncontrollably, and subtly wipe sweat from my forehead. “What about Melissa?”

After all, Dad has two partners. And Melissa fits in the criteria he mentioned perfectly. In fact, Melissa would welcome this arrangement with glee.

“Melissa is already engaged.”

“What?” I squeak. Clearing my throat, I speak again, “What? When did this happen?”

“Last week. And even if she weren’t, I would still go for you, River. I told you I like you a lot,” he says softly, reaching across the table to place his hand over mine.

His words are persuasive, calculated. It’s clear he has thought about this a lot. But as much as I want to respect his feelings and the potential benefits, I can’t ignore my own heart. I need to find a way to gently let him down, without causing too much damage to our families’ relationship.

“I can’t speak on this matter at the moment,” I say finally, my voice soft. “Please understand, this is a lot to take in.”

He smiles, a bit more relaxed now. “I know. Just know that whatever you decide, it needs to be the right choice for our future. And I hope you’ll see the potential in what we could achieve together.” He gives my hand a squeeze.

I subtly pull my hand away. After that, thankfully, Edward shifts to his travelling stories and I resume nodding when necessary.

I will find a way. There’s no way I would ever marry Edward. Dad will surely understand. He won’t go against my wishes. I take a deep breath, reminiscing our Paris holiday. Dad and mom’s love story had inspired me. Dad’s tales encouraged me to fall in love with Damian.

He will understand once I’ll tell him about Damian. After all, he knows how it feels to be helplessly in love. He can never wish a tragic ending for my love story. That thought gives me a bit of hope and I begin feeling better.

One thing I have learned from this date. Edward loves to talk. I stifled my yawn twice and he didn’t notice. He has shifted to his Greece adventures now.

At one point, my gaze begins wandering around. I take in the modern, sleek décor, and the tables, noticing the cozy couples lost in their own worlds. A brief smile tugs at my lips at the sight of a girl playfully feeding her companion dessert. I let my gaze drift away from them and roam again. But all of a sudden, abruptly, my eyes come to a halt. Through a swirling haze of cigar smoke, a pair of piercing black eyes lock onto mine.

A jab of shock goes through me.

Edward’s fingers gently capture my chin, turning my face toward him with a grin. “My stories had you daydreaming, didn’t they?”

Caught off-guard by his sudden touch, I lean away from it, I manage a faint reply, “I… um, yeah, they did.”

My heart pounds loudly in my chest, drowning out Edward’s voice for a moment. Am I hallucinating? It can’t be. With a shuddering breath, I trail my eyes across the room once again. And for the second time, I meet those black eyes. Because he is still watching me.

“Damian.” I mouth his name. He arches a dark brow. That one move sends a shiver down my spine.

He takes a confident drag of his cigar, his eyes locked on mine through the swirling smoke. For a moment, I think I saw fury in the depths of his dark gaze. But I’m not sure because it’s gone.

I cancelled our date because I told him I had to see dad and now I’m here with Edward. He probably thinks I am cheating on him.

The fear of losing him almost makes me whimper. Before I can do something, a waiter arrives with our dessert, blocking my view. When he finally moves away, I look back eagerly, only to find Damian’s seat empty.

Panic sets in as I frantically scan the restaurant, finally spotting him striding toward the exit. With a woman by his side. And just like that, my heart stops inside my chest.

I had been so preoccupied with my own fear of losing him that I hadn’t even glanced to see if Damian was accompanied by someone. I push to my trembling feet. Barely managing an apology, I run after him.

Reaching the foyer, I see them heading for the elevators. I halt for a few seconds. It feels like I am dying. But I resume walking.

My eyes burn the entire time as I make my way toward them. But by the time I reach there, they are already inside and the doors are closing.

With numb, cold fingers I press the call button to the elevator beside the one Damian just boarded. Within seconds, it arrives, and I quickly step inside. My vision blurs with tears as I helplessly stare at the buttons, unable to discern which floor they selected. I randomly press one and the doors start to slide shut.

Suddenly, a hand shoots through the narrowing gap between the doors at the very last second. The doors open again. And through the opening, Damian strides in.

For a second or two, I just stand there, unable to move. Pure shock makes my heart hammer against my breastbone.

All I can do is watch as Damian presses a button, making the doors slide shut. Once we are trapped inside, he faces me, leaning against the opposite wall, intent black eyes colliding with my startled greens.

His head tilts to the side as he studies me. “Breathe.”

I inhale then, only now realizing I wasn’t breathing. It’s hard to control my erratic heartbeat when he is watching me like that but I try to calm myself the best I can.

“Busy night?”

I flinch. He continues, “First, I see you with Edward McAllister at the restaurant,” he says coldly. “Then I see you running after another man.”

“No, it’s not what you think!”

Without warning, he swiftly presses a button. The elevator gives a jerk and then grinds to a sudden halt.

“Damian!” I gasp. “What did you do?”

“I stopped it.” He moves closer. “We need to talk. I’m afraid your date will have to wait. As well as that man you were chasing.”

“Damian, it wasn’t what it looked like. I thought that man I was following was—”

“So you do admit you were following him,” he says, his voice dangerously low. “First you follow me for my number, now you’re running after someone else. Quite the habit.” He advances and I take a step back, the sound of my breathing loud. The confined space suddenly feels even smaller, the air thick with tension.

“No, it’s not like that! I can explain.”

He takes another step closer, and I can feel the heat radiating from his body.

“Explain then,” he demands, his gaze never leaving mine. There’s a fire in them that both terrifies and excites me. He places a hand on the wall beside my head, caging me in.

My cheeks burn under his watchful stare. “I t-thought he was y-you. He was wearing the same suit as you. When I saw him with a-another woman, I felt... betrayed. I followed him because I thought you were with her,” I confess, my words spilling out in a rush.

Now that I know that man wasn’t my Damian, I feel a surge of relief flood through me. It’s so intense it borders on physical pain. The thought of Damian betraying me had nearly shattered me. I love him fiercely, with every fiber of my being. The mere idea of losing him, of him being with someone else, had been unbearable. My heart had clenched in agony, my mind racing with thoughts of what could have been. But now, knowing it wasn’t him, I can breathe again. I can feel my love for him burning even brighter, a fierce determination settling in to never let doubt cloud my heart again.

He places his other hand on the wall, boxing me in completely. I’m trapped, and my pulse races at the nearness of him. “You thought I was cheating on you.”

“I saw him from a distance and assumed the worst. I was wrong,” I admit, my cheeks flushing with shame.

His gaze roams over my face, and I feel the intensity of his scrutiny like a physical touch. “You doubted me, angel.” His eyes drop to my lips, and I swallow hard, my heart pounding.

“I know, and I’m sorry. It was a mistake,” I plead. The tension between us is palpable, and I find myself leaning in ever so slightly, craving his touch. Giving into it, I reach up and cup his jaw. When he doesn’t reject my touch, I go on my tiptoe and press my lips against his jaw.

“A mistake. Like going on a date with Edward behind my back?”

I freeze, pulling away. The cold hard look on his face makes my eyes go wide. “Damian…”

He leans forward until his body is flushed against mine. “I thought we were supposed to be together tonight, but then you tell me you have to go see your father. Imagine my surprise when Hal fills me in on your change of plans.”

“It wasn’t a date, Damian. Please, believe me! I was supposed to have dinner with dad, but he arranged for Edward to come in his place,” I explain, desperation bleeding into my voice. His proximity is intoxicating, and I can feel the heat of his breath on my skin. I can hardly think.

“Your father set you up with Edward?” He runs his eyes over my face.

I lick my lips, nodding. Only Damian can get me hot and bothered while questioning me.

“Yes, and I didn’t know until I got here. I was just trying to be polite.” I don’t tell him about the marriage proposal. How can I when Damian is in such a mood?

“Is letting him touch you your idea of politeness?”

“I didn’t invite his touch,” I say, meeting Damian’s intense gaze head-on. “I leaned away every time, trying to signal that I wasn’t comfortable with it but he didn’t seem to notice.”

His jaw ticks. “Sounds like he needs to learn his boundaries,” Damian says, his voice chillingly calm. “Perhaps a broken hand might make him think twice.”

My jaw drops. He clasps my chin, exactly how Edward had earlier and rubs the skin with his thumb as if he is erasing the other man’s touch. “No one touches what’s mine.”

Damian’s possessiveness had never surfaced so visibly before.

He places his bronzed index finger against my neck where my pulse is beating out of control. “Do I scare you, angel?”

Color rushes up my face as he runs his finger slowly up my throat. “Damian…” His name comes out as a moan. My eyes fall shut when he reaches my mouth, caressing my parted, quivering lips.

“Tell me,” he murmurs. “Does my possessiveness intimidate you?”

Fighting breathlessness, I start to shake my head but his fingers tug my ponytail, tilting my head back. “Don’t think about lying.”

“Yes… it does.” I open my heavy-lidded eyes. “But it also makes me want you more.”

Dark satisfaction shines in his eyes and it sends shivers through me. Every bit of dignity in me falls away when it comes to this man. It’s like the connection between my brain and my mouth breaks whenever I am around him. That is why I often end up confessing things I should keep hidden.

With my face flushed, and my breasts rising and falling with every shallow breath, I stare at him, letting him see how he affects me. I show him how much I desire him, hoping and praying for his control to snap so that he could finally make love to me.

Through half-lowered lids, he watches me, then slowly reaches down and grabs my wrists. I tremble when he raises them and places my arms around his neck.

He bends his head and I gasp when his lips brush the corner of left eye. One hand slides down my back and with the other he catches my chin and tilt my head backwards, making me look up at him.

Feeling incredibly shy, I shut my eyes, while my heart beating wildly in my ears.

“Look at me,” he murmurs.

I shake my head, swallowing thickly.

“Don’t you want to witness the effect your honesty has on me?”

At that, my eyes fly open of their own accord and what I see shakes me to the core.

A raw, unadulterated desire is burning in his gaze. For me. Just for me. I whimper and his mouth takes possession of mine.

A moan escapes me as his mouth moves hotly against mine. My hands restless in his hair. I arch toward him, pressing into his hard body, wanting to merge myself with him forever. His hands grip me with equal need, his tongue demanding. I let his kiss, his touch, consume me until I become boneless. Literally.

My knees buckle but Damian wedges his knee between my legs. I’m wearing flared trousers, and the layers of our clothing is only heightening the pressure of his hard thigh against my pussy. I shudder when he moves his leg slightly, rubbing me. The friction makes me wetter and I do the unthinkable. Without any thought, digging my nails in his broad shoulders, I give into the primal urge and move against his thigh.

With his mouth still moving against mine, he reaches for my ponytail and deftly pulls the hair tie, setting my curls free.

Damian kisses me like he has all the time in the world. And I just soak it all in. This is where I want to be, in his arms. Feeling him all around me, taking over my senses.

He lets out a little groan when I suck on his tongue. It’s so foreign because Damian isn’t always vocal. He is always in control. The rush of knowing I’ve managed to pierce through his steel control is so exhilarating, it’s filling me with a heady sense of empowerment.

His hard body is pressing me against the wall as he devours my mouth and even though I’m trapped, I feel like flying. I feel safe. I feel at home.

The bulge in his pants make me blush harder but does it stop me from grinding against him? No. Picking up on my signals, Damian increases the friction, making me gasp. At the same time, his lips move down and nip at my jaw before sliding to the side of my throat. I tilt my head, giving him full access, wanting more of his rough kisses on my skin.

His kisses are so aggressive, hungry and passionate that I shiver when I feel his tongue on my flesh. I’m on fire, the tension in me building the harder he kisses my neck and his thigh rubbing between my legs.

I dig my fingers through his hair and push his face harder against the crook of my neck. Damian reaches between our bodies and unfastens the button on my trousers. As his fingers work to lower my zipper, the shrill ring of his phone pierces the air. Simultaneously, distant voices filter in, just outside the elevator door.

I pull back from Damian, the spell broken by the sudden interruption. His eyes meet mine, frustration evident in the tight line of his jaw. “Damn it,” he mutters quietly, his voice rough with desire and irritation.

I tuck my curl behind my ear, suppressing a smile. But it instantly turns into a gasp when he hooks his finger in the waistband of my trousers, tugging me closer. I watch, mouth agape, as he zips me up and buttons my pants. Then, unexpectedly, he produces a handkerchief.

Blushing furiously, I wipe at my lips and then glance up to find him watching me intently. Without a word exchanged, I stand on my tiptoes and gently wipe his lips as well.

He leans down and presses his lips to my forehead. As he does, he reaches out to press a button on the panel. The elevator jolts momentarily before smoothly resuming its ascent. Pulling me close to his side, he murmurs, “I’ll take you home.”

I sigh, understanding the unspoken message. Even tonight, he won’t make love to me. I’m beginning to think Damian is old-fashioned. He won’t take me to bed until he puts a ring on my finger.

The idea of marrying him fills me with a rush of joy so intense that if I could, I would marry him right this instant. Imagining a future together, sharing our lives in every way, feels like the most natural and perfect thing in the world.

He was my first kiss on my eighteenth birthday; what if I get my first time on my twenty-first? If only he would ask me to marry him.