When desperation drives Layla to a charity auction, she never expects to be 'bought' by a billionaire. But Tatum's kindness and generosity hide secrets and a world of privilege that threatens to tear them apart. As they navigate their impossible love, they must confront the darkness of their pasts and the headlines that threaten to destroy their future. Will their love be strong enough to bridge the gap between their two worlds?
Chapter 1 Desperations Edge I.
Tatum nodded towards the young woman who was busy dusting and cleaning.
"Who's she?"
He asked his sister Brittany. Brittany followed his gaze and smiled.
"oh, that's Layla. She's our new housekeeper."
Just then, Brittany called out to Layla.
"Hey Layla, come here for a sec!"
Layla looked up from her cleaning and smiled.
"Coming!"
She walked over to join them, her eyes sparkling with curiosity.
Brittany and Tatum O'Neil, children of the wealthiest and most influential man in Townsville, stood in the grand foyer of their opulent mansion, Tatum gazing at Layla with a mix of curiosity and amusement. Layla, with her humble background and simple attire, seemed out of place amidst the lavish decorations and priceless artwork. She had just started her new job as a housekeeper.
"Tatum, meet Layla, our new housekeeper."
Brittany introduced her, her voice friendly and welcoming. Layla's eyes met Tatum's, and she bowed her head slightly, her hands clasped together in a gesture of respect.
"Hello, sir. Nice to meet you,"
She said, her voice clear and polite. Tatum's gaze lingered on her for a moment before he nodded in acknowledgment, his expression neutral.
"Get us some drinks, okay sweetie?"
Brittany asked with a warm smile, her eyes sparkling with kindness.
"Yes, ma'am,"
Layla replied, her voice obedient and respectful. She turned to head towards the kitchen, her footsteps quiet on the marble floor.
Tatum gazed at his sister with narrowed eyes, his brow turned furrowed in suspicion.
"What?"
Brittany asked, her voice laced with defensiveness, her hands on her hips.
"You're awfully nice to the maid."
Tatum said, his tone dripping with skepticism.
"You're not exactly known for your kindness, sis. What's going on?"
He crossed his arms, his eyes boring into hers, seeking the truth behind her unexpected behavior.
Brittany had a reputation for being spoiled and bratty, with a sharp tongue that could cut down anyone who crossed her path. From a young age, she had a penchant for belittling those she deemed beneath her, especially the maids who worked in their opulent home. She would often speak to them condescendingly, her voice dripping with disdain, and treat them like dirt beneath her feet. So, Tatum's curiosity about her sudden kindness towards Layla was warranted.
Brittany shrugged her shoulders nonchalantly, a sly smile spread across her face. Her eyes gleamed with a mischievous light, and Tatum's instincts told him she was plotting something devious.
He scoffed*
His eyes rolled in exasperation, knowing that Layla was about to become the target of his sister's cruel games.
"Anyway, where is mom?"
Tatum asked, changing the subject.
"She went on branch with Aunt Lana."
Brittany replied, her voice dripping with disinterest.
"They're probably out horseback riding or whatever it is they do there."
She waved her hand dismissively, already losing interest in the conversation.
"Okay then, no reason for me to stick around here any longer."
Tatum said, ruffling his sister's hair in a playful gesture.
"Don't do anything stupid, Brittany,"
He warned, his eyes sparkling with a mix of amusement and concern. He turned to leave, but not before catching Layla's eye as she walked past him with a tray of drinks.
"It was nice meeting you, Layla."
He said with a charming smile, his eyes clinking at the corners. Layla nodded graciously, her smile polite and continued to serve Brittany, who was watching the exchange with a calculating gaze.