He Chose Power, She Found Love

ora'

eyes, usually so calculating and self-assured, were now wide with a shock that was almost comical.

t about hi

en for a ver

know my life. He

ing slowly to my feet, the locket now tucked securely in m

ing in? This isn't some romantic novel where you can just walk away from everything unscathed. Without a protector, you'll be swallowed whole." Hi

people just thrive on playing the victim. Honestly, Elenora, you used to be so sensible. Clay took care of you, even after... well, after. You should

pled through the

still clingi

. Trying to sneak into

ent. Barely s

cing the delicate engraving on the

and soft, spread through me, melting the

ully, to leave this su

is eyes blazing. "You refused me once, remember? You thought you were so strong, so independent. You thought you could make it without me." He

lm, but my only fear was

ed, my voice low and steady

way to survive. Listen to me. My family's new venture needs a... personal assistant. It' s beneath you, I know, but at least it's a

s ambition had consumed him, leaving behind only arrogance

I don't need your charity." My voice was a whis

ng over. He let go of my wrist, pushing me back a step. The forc

flinched, instinctively recoiling from his raw power. They

a subtle pressure, now felt like a chi

y voice calm, almost serene. "A fated

opened, then closed, then opened again, but no sound came out. The entire ballroom

ic of a past he'd outgrown. A woman like me, alone and unprivileged, didn't just have a fated pa

g the locket inside my dress. A small smile touched my lips. My boy. Al

rying to manipulate me. It's another one of your pathetic games!" He tried to reass

"Believe what you wish,

the murmurs from the crowd grew louder, turning i

rtner? Who'

ke a delus

ome sugar daddy in

o climb, isn't

n. Always looking

at kind of 'partner' would want someone like you? Someone with your... baggage? Your obscurity?" He let another wave of his raw, aggressive power wash over me. "Tell me, Elenora. What