sheenakgraham - Tumblr blog

sheenakgraham · 2 years ago

Text

Never Fall in Love - Outline, Summary, and Excerpt

Check here to see an explanation of a scam I recently dealt with. It will fully explain why I'm posting this story excerpt. Thanks for your support.

Summary

Wanda Patterson never wanted to date again. After escaping an abusive three-year relationship, she tried to avoid all men. Still traumatized from the experience with Ferdinand West, she struggled to make it in the world alone. Losing her parents as a child didn’t help, and her strict uncle barely let Wanda leave the house until college. Now at 25, she’s determined to make her way. Then she bucks into her childhood neighbor, Evan Barton. Now the owner of a chain of bakeries across the United States and a millionaire. Then things turn dark when her ex-husband Ferdinand tries to force her to return.

Evan Barton, at age 30, always cared about Wanda. But while they were neighbors, they never really got along and were often enemies. It devastated him when she moved away at 13 when her parents died. They knew each other well despite their age difference. That stopped when Wanda’s strict uncle cut off contact. He came to accept never seeing her again. So imagine Evan’s surprise seeing her at one of his locations chatting with one of their bakers. At first, they’re wary of each other but glad to reunite. Evan invites her to an event, but things go awry when Ferdinand shows up, declaring that he and Wanda are getting back together. That’s when Evan finds out about Wanda’s devastating past. He comes up with the idea of a fake engagement to scare Ferdinand off, and she has to live on Evan’s estate. The pair get close and fall in love. But can romance bloom with Ferdinand in the background, determined to take Wanda away at any cost?

Character Descriptions

Wanda - a 25-year-old woman who’s damaged from past trauma. She’s trying to move on when she bumps into Evan. Wanda’s 5’7 with dark hair that used to be blonde, blue eyes, white skin, and a petite figure. Wanda worked as a receptionist at a rental agency while focused on staying safe. Wanda was in a three-year abusive marriage with Ferdinand. At around age 24, she got the strength to leave. Now at 25, and a year later, she’s moved on. She also lost her parents at a young age and had to move in with her overprotective uncle, who kept her away from the world as much as he could. She finally got away from him when she went to college. So, Wanda had a lot of damaging things happen in her life. Wanda wanted to find love but was scared of meeting another abusive man.

Evan - 30-year-old businessman and millionaire Alpha Male. Reuniting with Wanda was unexpected. Evan’s 6ft tall, athletic build, tanned white skin, wavy blonde hair, and grey eyes. Evan felt he was too busy for romance.

Chapter Outline

Chapter One

Wanda tried to move forward after being free of Ferdinand, her abusive ex-husband, for one year. After an abusive three-year marriage, she avoids men when she can. While not hating them, Wanda’s still extra careful. She’s also had other devastating traumas (she lost her parents at a young age and went to live with an overprotective uncle) that left her damaged and wary. Wanda worked as a receptionist (also mentioned in chapter four) at a rental agency. While Wanda tried negotiating with one of the bakers at The Dramatic Bakery. She’s reunited with her childhood neighbor and old enemy, Evan Barton. She found him incredibly handsome. They’re not friends but kept things as civil as possible. Evan invited Wanda to an event, and she accepted.

Chapter Two

Evan was glad to have Wanda by his side despite them being enemies. She was beautiful and shy, which he found cute. Evan recalled the past when despite their feuds as kids, he stood up for Wanda. Like when a boy nearly shoved her into the street because she wouldn’t flirt with him. Evan punched the guy, and Wanda was never bothered again. But the high-class event went awry when Ferdinand West, a new up and commer in business, declared that he and his ex were getting back together. When it was revealed to be Wanda, she fled the event. Evan later learned about the abusive past, and his alpha male side activated. He would protect Wanda, no matter what.

Chapter Three

Wanda was horrified that Ferdinand found her. Worse, she called the police station and discovered her restraining order against her ex-husband was rescinded. Ferdinand called and told her that they were getting back together, and she would tell everyone that the abuse accusations were lies. Wanda refused and hung up in tears.

Chapter Four

Evan visited Wanda at her receptionist job to check on her. Wanda blushed upon seeing Evan so unexpectedly. She took a short break so they could chat.

When Ferdinand tried to get into the building, security refused. Wanda’s horrified when security notified her of Ferdinand’s presence. Evan offered to sneak her out the back and into his limo. Evan suggested taking Wanda back to his place since Ferdinand seemed to know her movements. Wanda was nervous, but Evan promised his home was secure, so she agreed. Wanda called her boss and gave a quick explanation. The boss allowed Wanda to leave and told her to stay safe.

Chapter Five

Wanda was at Evan’s place and felt terrified. She agreed to be at Evan’s home to hide from Ferdinand but was still scared. Ferdinand kept calling and texting her phone. Evan called the police, demanding they reinstate the restraining order. The stress caused Wanda to faint, and Evan cared for her. Wanda felt like everything was falling apart. But at least she had Evan. However, they’re still sort of enemies and bickered with each other.

Chapter Six

Evan was at his workplace when Ferdinand visited. Evan had arranged time off for Wanda with her boss. That way, Wanda could lay low. The ex demands why Evan’s in his business and hiding Wanda away. Evan told Ferdinand that he wouldn’t let harm come to Wanda.

Ferdinand then threatened to destroy Evan if he didn’t back off. Evan made it clear that he wasn’t scared of abusive losers(Wanda told Evan that Ferdinand was abusive in chapter two). That if Ferdinand had been a good husband, it was unlikely that Wanda would’ve ended the marriage.

Chapter Seven

Wanda went to the market with a pair of Evan’s security men. She was surprised to see her uncle. But things went sour when he commanded Wanda to return to Ferdinand—stating that a man hitting a woman wasn’t a big deal. The uncle added that Evan would give a lot of money if Wanda returned as Ferdinand’s wife. A devastated Wanda left the market in tears. She couldn’t believe her uncle would accept a bribe from Ferdinand.

Chapter Eight

Evan was furious upon hearing what happened at the market. He had a restraining order placed on the uncle to keep Wanda extra safe. Evan had a more challenging time getting one for Ferdinand regarding Wanda. Ferdinand’s legal team argued that Wanda’s delicate mental state invalidated her abuse claims. But Evan got a small victory because he recorded Ferdinand threatening him at his business. So Evan got a restraining order against Ferdinand for himself and anyone associating with him, which included Wanda, as long as the pair were near each other. Ferdinand had to stay away.

Chapter Nine

Wanda was glad that she had some form of distance from Ferdinand. Even though she had to stay around Evan to do it, being around a hot guy you’re supposed to hate wasn’t bad when he was kind. Wanda got a call that someone had set her workplace on fire, and she knew it was Ferdinand. Her ex-husband wouldn’t let her go.

Chapter Ten

Evan had an idea. He and Wanda would fake a relationship and pretend to be engaged. She was hesitant, but Evan insisted this would get Ferdinand out of her hair. Evan didn’t mind being around a beautiful woman for a while since Wanda had to stay on his estate. Wanda agreed to the fake union. When they shook hands, Wanda blushed while Evan grinned.

Chapter Eleven

Wanda thought the idea was wild, but they were out of ideas. At least Evan had the funds and protection that kept her and himself safe. They announced the engagement and prepared to go out on their first date.

Chapter Twelve

Evan was determined to protect Wanda. Even though they were supposed to be enemies, he knew deeper feelings existed. She acted coy around him and blushed at inopportune times. But he couldn’t force things since Wanda was already damaged by men in her life. The date was at a restaurant, and everything went well. Wanda kissed him on the cheek in thanks.

Chapter Thirteen

Wanda wasn’t sure what to think. She had a great time with Evan and wanted to go out more. Did that mean she had feelings for him? No, this was temporary. She couldn’t fall into another relationship trap like Ferdinand. She was better off being single and mobile. Once Ferdinand was out of the way, she and Evan would break things off.

Chapter Fourteen

Evan bumped into Wanda, wandering around the estate. Wanda blushed and looked away. Evan decided not to bring it up. But he liked how cute she was when being bashful. He offered to take her to his private library, and she accepted. Things got hot and heavy, and they had sex on one of the tables.

Chapter Fifteen

Wanda couldn’t believe she had sex with Evan. He was a famous baker and business owner. She was a nobody. A man like that was off-limits for her. Especially if she wanted to live off the radar and away from Ferdinand, she still thought Evan’s hot and amazing in bed.

Chapter Sixteen

Evan took Wanda on another date. They had a great time, and Evan admitted he had a crush on Wanda. Wanda said he was nice but was unsure if she could be more than a friend. She blushed, and the pair enjoyed the rest of the evening.

Chapter Seventeen

Wanda’s horrified to learn that her uncle is trying to have her committed, stating that her relationship with Evan is part of a delusion. Worse than that, Evan is the abusive one trying to hold her hostage. Wanda decided it was time to take everything public. Clearly, privately moving in with Evan and then doing a public fake engagement wasn’t enough. So she decided to take drastic action to protect herself and Evan. Wanda did a press conference revealing the full extent of the abuse. Despite the damage, she wanted to stand up for herself. Perhaps public pressure would make Ferdinand and her uncle back off.

Chapter Eighteen

Evan went after Ferdinand demanding that Wanda’s ex takes back the lies. Ferdinand claimed that he was only trying to protect Wanda. Both are surprised by the press conference. Ferdinand was angrier than ever, and Evan’s proud of Wanda.

Chapter Nineteen

Wanda ran up to Evan and kissed him when he arrived at the press conference. She was shocked at herself but decided to go with it. This time she took him to one of her favorite places for their next date. Both had a great time and got closer.

Chapter Twenty

Evan knew that Wanda had feelings for him. He prepared to ask her and state that their engagement and marriage should be genuine. But he got an emergency call that Wanda had been declared legally unfit and taken by her uncle. The uncle now had conservatorship over Wanda and had control of where she could go. Including not allowing her to see Evan.

Chapter Twenty-One

Wanda was terrified. Her uncle had taken her away, and the conservatorship allowed him complete control of her person. For years, stars like Britney Spears (feel free to look up her conservatorship for a better understanding) got stuck under those. Wanda prayed that Evan could save her. Her uncle took her to a cottage where Ferdinand was waiting. Ferdinand stated that he was taking her away where nobody could stop them from being together. The uncle could use the conservatorship to claim that Wanda was away for her health. Wanda was horrified and didn’t know what to do.

Chapter Twenty-Two

Evan searched for Wanda and even went to the uncle. The uncle declared that Wanda owed him, and Ferdinand promised plenty of money. The uncle boasted that Wanda was always damaged, and nobody believed her abuse claims despite them being true. Evan revealed their conversation was being recorded. The uncle’s scared and spills the beans in exchange for Evan not giving the recording to the cops, with the condition that the uncle never contacted Wanda in the future.

Chapter Twenty-Three

Wanda was scared as Ferdinand took her to a secret airport. He planned to fly them away where nobody could find her. But Evan showed up with his security team and beat up Ferdinand. Evan asked Wanda if she loved him, and she said yes. They kissed on the tarmac.

Chapter Twenty-four

Evan was nervous about the wedding. Wanda teased him and promised that they would be together forever.

Chapter Twenty-five

One year later, Evan and Wanda were happily together with twin baby girls.

----

Never Fall in Love - Excerpt

Chapter One - Wanda

Wanda never wanted to rely on another man again. She couldn’t believe Parker Limpfoot forgot to reserve the cake celebrating their boss’s wedding anniversary. Mr. Roberts had supported her during her time at the rental agency, and she wanted to make this upcoming birthday special. Despite her suggesting the cake and location, Parker insisted on making the order because he had worked there four years longer. The majority overruled her, and she had to allow Parker to take credit for her idea. Now, she was stuck cleaning up his mess.

She raced to The Dramatic Bakery to get a rush order by tomorrow. The bakery had a forty-eight-hour standing order. So this was going to be a nightmare. Nobody else stepped up to correct Parker’s mistake. They were leaving Wanda in the lurch. Either she fixed this or let the boss get a random cake that wouldn’t hold the same sentimental value.

Parker didn’t even have the guts to correct his mistake. He always preferred to have other people clean up his messes. Wanda had been smart enough to avoid working with him until now. The lazy coward claimed his daughter had a toothache and bailed. Both of them worked at a rental agency where she was a receptionist.

Anyone looking at Wanda saw a meek white brunette with blue eyes and a petite figure. It was hard to show others a deeper side. She had dyed her blonde hair dark to try and create a new look to fit a colossal do-over. Disasters and abuse wouldn’t dominate her life. She had to take the reigns and make the world she wanted to live in.

Worse, she had a history of hooking up with abusive men who only used her. Which made her extra wary of men personally, professionally, and romantically. She didn’t need to fall for the false words of another monster. The one who refused to leave her alone had a restraining order against him. Anytime she recalled Ferdinand West, she shuddered.

Meeting the love of your college life was a big cliche. But that’s what she thought upon meeting Ferdinand. He was handsome, intelligent, and had a fiery temper when provoked. Wanda ignored the final one until she was in too deep. Wanting love in all the wrong places was her life motto. Now, she wanted to avoid complications and live a normal life.

“Hello,” Wanda entered the bakery. Everything looked delicious and extravagant. The owner was supposed to be some big-shot baker who won a baking contest and went on to open a franchise business. “I called to tell you about the mix-up. I’m Wanda Patterson.”

A receptionist looked her up and down. “So you’re the straggler of the week.” She pointed Wanda in the direction of a frowning baker. The look on the woman’s face told Wanda things weren’t going well. This bakery was a high-ranking establishment. Nobody would care that a random woman wanted a last-minute cake for her boss.

“Ma’am, I told you we’re not making an exception,” the baker stated. He stood over six feet with dark skin, brown eyes, and a bald head. On any other day, he would probably have a friendly smile. Today, his frown and folded hands made the man look like a bouncer.

“I told you this wasn’t my fault,” Wanda protested, “Please, this is my boss’s favorite bakery, and nothing else would make him happier tomorrow afternoon.” It was humiliating standing in the middle of the store begging. The baker saw her as nothing more than a time waster.

“That’s not my problem,” the baker said, “We have orders months in advance, and no one will put them on hold for you. The bakery has already filled out the available listings for stragglers like yourself. We’ll have space for your type next month. If you place an order now like everyone else.”

Wanda was on the verge of tears. She had no idea what to do. While she understood this wasn’t the baker's fault, it seemed so unfair that Parker’s mistake had caused so much chaos. “Please, I know this looks like a silly complaint. But I need this order. I’ll do anything.”

“Max, what’s the problem?” a man walked in from the back. He was tall, tan, and handsome as if walking right off a movie set and into reality. She was too stunned to speak and kept gawking at the appearance of such a sexy specimen.

“Nothing, boss, another straggler demanding we drop everything,” Max rolled his eyes.

“Ma’am, is there anything we can do to help you?” a handsome man approached her.

Wanda ran her fingers through her long, dark hair. “There was a mix-up, and I’m trying to clear it up with one of your bakers. If you’re the owner of this establishment, please know you’re very handsome. I mean, welcome to hear my full story. My name’s Wanda, by the way.”

“Wait, Wanda Patterson. No way, that you?” the handsome owner spoke.

Wanda’s eyes widened. Did this man say her full name? “Do I know you from somewhere?” Unlikely since she wouldn’t forget a man this handsome. Perhaps he saw her at the rental agency while she was filing papers or something like that.

It’s me, Evan,” the owner revealed, “remember we were neighbors as kids?”

“Barton?” Wanda shrieked, scaring everyone at the bakery. She had been drooling over her childhood bully? Life couldn’t be this cruel. The teen she remembered looked nothing like this hunk of meet standing before her. There had to be a mistake.

“Please don’t shout,” Evan said, “you’ve grown up.” There was the recognizable snark she hated as a kid. Evan always wanted to act superior because he was the older one. Why would the universe bless a jerk like that with a hot body in their adulthood?

Wanda couldn’t believe Evan Barton had grown into a handsome millionaire baker. The boy she knew back then was gangly with scraggly hair, five years older, her neighbor and the neighborhood bully. Back then, his parents were barely scraping by. The money wouldn’t be a problem now. Creating a luxury bakery business like this didn’t come cheap.

“You look great, by the way,” Evan said, “for a string bean.”

“Har, har, cockroach boy,” Wanda countered. A roar of laughter broke out through the bakery. The wide-eyed look on Evan’s face nearly made her giggle. She never forgave him for pulling that prank on an innocent mother on their block. Though Evan kept swearing that day that he wasn’t responsible. Nobody in their suburb believed him.

“I didn’t do that prank,” Evan denied, “I’m not scaring a mother pushing a baby stroller. Anyway, what’s happening here.” He looked genuinely shocked, and Wanda felt terrible. Perhaps he was innocent or even forgot about the incident. Either way, that was in the past, and what mattered was focusing on things in the present.

Wanda explained her situation. Detailing what kind of person Parker was and how kind and loyal her boss had been. She needed to get that cake from this bakery. She felt mortified at the idea of begging her childhood bully for help. But what mattered was Mr. Roberts's big day tomorrow. Wanda could swallow her pride and do whatever it took to get the cake.

To her surprise, Evan demanded her phone and contacted Parker himself. He chewed Wanda’s coworker, calling the freeloader a jerk and a coward. Stating that a man didn’t hide behind a woman to cover up their mistakes. He warned that the lazy guy better let her take all the credit for this cake. Once he hung up, there was no doubt everything would be fine.

“Max, you’ll make an overnight rush order for this woman. I know that’s unusual, but this order was supposed to get placed in advance, and it’s not her fault,” Evan stated, “Besides, I can do something nice for a cute old enemy,” he winked.

“Always a charmer,” Wanda blushed, “Thank you.” Standing next to Evan now was heartwarming and awkward. It's lovely that he agreed to let her do a last-minute rush order. But it was embarrassing that she checked him out moments before he revealed his identity.

“Get a room, you two,” Max walked away, rolling his eyes.

“It’s not like that,” Wanda denied while Evan coughed heavily and had to hold a nearby column for support, “I didn’t know you’d think it was that bad.” She had changed since childhood but never thought Evan would find her repulsive. Perhaps she thought of him as a savior too quickly. One kind act didn’t make him an angel. Wanda wasn’t the hottest woman in the universe, but being with her couldn’t be so bad it sent Evan into a coughing fit.

“No, it’s not you,” Evan cleared his throat, “Max is a real joker.” His ears were red, and he was breathing irregularly. Did any joke make him this way, or only ones with innuendo?

“I probably should get going,” Wanda decided, turning for the exit, “it was nice seeing you again.” Evan helping her was a tiny bright spark in a mortifying reunion. She never wanted to dawn the steps of this bakery again. Wanda’s had enough complications with the awkward drama. It was too bad that Evan was so handsome now. She hoped to meet a man half as sexy when things were stable enough to try dating again.

“Wait,” Evan strode over, “where’s the fire? We only reunited a few minutes ago.”

Standing next to a tall, handsome man felt both exciting and frightening. She couldn’t forget the dark times with men who took advantage. No matter how hard she tried to pretend that everything was fine. Wanda knew not all men were bad. But finding the good ones and keeping their attention seemed like the world’s biggest challenge. Evan was a famous guy. He wouldn’t want a plain girl like her by his side. He could pick any hot woman he desired.

Evan seemed to sense her discomfort and took a step back. He surveyed her a second time. It's less like a random meet-up and more like someone scrutinizing a person. It seemed forever before he spoke. “I don’t want to rush things, but meeting someone from the old neighborhood is nice. I know you left, but I still remember the cute girl I had a rivalry with.”

“A lot has changed,” Wanda bit her lip, “you never mentioned the hair.” Why did she say that? Evan had no obligation to talk about her dye job. What was making her act so strange? Did seeing one handsome man make her forget every type of manners?

“I assumed you preferred it dark,” Evan shrugged, “you look good either way.” His answer made her feel quite beautiful. So he did notice and didn’t mind. That was a good start.

“Thank you,” Wanda smiled, “So you won a cooking challenge and became a big shot?”

“Is that what I am?” Evan chuckled, “Besides my parents, few people from our old stomping grounds took my win well. They think I now live above my station.” He acted calm, but Wanda could see the hurt in his eyes. Being shunned by your neighborhood had to hurt.

“That’s awful. You deserve everything you have,” Wanda said, “One thing you never were was lazy. Don’t let anyone make you feel less.”

“Yes, Ma’am,” Evan’s face brightened, “I have an event this weekend. I’d like you to come with me. As a way for us to hang out in style.”

“What kind of event is it?” Wanda asked. Her inner voice screamed to turn him down. She wasn’t ready to go out with men again. But this was Evan. The invite had to be friendly.

“A fancy thing introducing another member of the new money business club,” Evan shrugged, “it will be fancy, fun, and a little bit dull, so please come.”

“With that invitation, how can I refuse?” Wanda burst out laughing.

Chapter Two - Evan

Telling Max he wasn’t coming to the New Money Gala went down badly. Evan did his best to explain the sudden change in plans. Evan wasn’t thinking when inviting Wanda. Now, a close friend was furious, and they had every right.

Seeing Wanda again was unexpected. After she moved away and her uncle cut off access, Evan had to accept they would never see each other again. That creepy relative didn’t allow Wanda full internet access or social media access. It seemed they were destined to remain apart. Meeting up at his bakery was a miracle; he didn’t want to lose touch again.

Evan still remembered the day he almost lost Wanda forever. Before her parent’s death caused her to move away, another close call happened when they were kids.

The sun cast a warm golden glow over the suburban neighborhood, illuminating the picturesque houses and tree-lined streets. It was a peaceful Saturday afternoon, but within the confines of this idyllic setting, a storm was brewing—one that would forever change the lives of two unlikely companions.

Evan, a mischievous 16-year-old with a penchant for pranks and a knack for assuming he was always right and the strongest, strutted down the sidewalk, his confidence shimmering in his eyes like a sparkler on the Fourth of July. His mischievous grin was a telltale sign that trouble was never far behind.

As he rounded the corner, his gaze fell upon a figure that made him smirk and grace. There she was, Wanda, the feisty 11-year-old who saw through his façade of bravado and considered him nothing more than a joke for being a bully. Dressed in her favorite pink shirt and denim shorts, with her blonde curls bouncing with every step, Wanda exuded an air of independence and strength that fascinated and irritated Evan equally. He was a teenager, and she was a little kid. The girl should have worshipped him but dismissed Evan instead.

Their rivalry was as predictable as the rising sun, filled with eye rolls, sarcastic banter, and a never-ending battle for supremacy. And yet, beneath their constant clashes, there lay a glimmer of something else—a connection formed by the shared experiences of growing up in this mesmerizing suburban wonderland. She was a know-it-all who could back it up.

One fateful day, all of that nearly came to an end.

“Hey, I’m talking to you,” a boy in a red shirt and blue jumper walked up to Wanda.

“Abel, leave me alone,” Wanda insisted.

Evan, who had been walking, stopped to witness the interaction. He didn’t like the way this kid was acting toward Wanda. But he wasn’t her friend. It's better not to interfere.

“I’m the coolest boy in our class,” Abel said, “you must be my girlfriend.”

Evan almost burst out laughing.

This silly boy had approached Wanda, filled with misguided intentions and arrogance. Abel demanded her attention and flirtation. But Wanda stubbornly refused. Nobody could force her to do something she didn’t want to do.

Evan's instincts overtook them without skipping a beat as he witnessed the boy's hand lunge toward Wanda's shoulder, determined to push her into the street. The jerk nearly put the young girl in the path of an oncoming car.

Evan's feet propelled him forward in a blink, heart pounding, adrenaline surging. He ran ahead, lunging over a neighbor’s hedge and two bushes, reaching just in time to pull Wanda out of the way of death’s door.

With the fury of a lion defending its pride, he unleashed a torrent of fists upon the unsuspecting jerk. The clash of knuckles meeting flesh echoed through the quiet neighborhood, mingling with Wanda's startled gasps. Time seemed to slow as the weight of this encounter pressed upon their young souls, forever intertwining their destinies.

Their eyes locked, and Evan and Wanda shared a momentary understanding. That no matter what, there were lines they wouldn’t cross in their rivalry. Or stand by and let others cause them harm.

Evan was glad that Wanda didn’t die that day. But fate was cruel, and a later tragedy forced Wanda to move away.

************

Underneath the shimmering chandeliers, Evan led Wanda into the opulent ballroom of the New Money Gala. The exquisite silk gowns and tailored suits surrounding them seemed to sway like a sea of elegance. Despite their turbulent past, Evan couldn't help but feel grateful for having Wanda by his side. She looked stunning in her midnight blue dress, her shyness adding an endearing touch to her beauty.

"Here's our table," Evan gestured toward a round table draped with ivory cloth, where three other guests were already seated. "Wanda, meet Harrison, Lila, and Amelia."

"Hi, nice to meet you all," Wanda said softly, offering a small smile as her blue eyes glanced at each new acquaintance. Everyone responded in kind.

“Harrison’s a philanthropist who revolutionized solar power in a small Russian village and fell into riches,” Evan said, “Lila and Amelia are business partners who created a lavish fashion line for fat women.”

"Welcome, Wanda," replied Lila, the warmth in her voice inviting.

As they settled into their seats, the evening's performances commenced. A captivating opera singer graced the stage, her powerful voice resonating throughout the hall. Next was a mesmerizing ballet that entranced the audience.

Evan could sense Wanda's tension melting away as they shared quiet laughter at the magician's tricks. Her hand brushed against his briefly, sending a jolt of electricity through him. He wanted to protect her from the world, even if it meant facing their complicated history.

Lila stood up and went on stage. Her voluptuous frame looked graceful as she walked in a stunning red dress. “Now, to introduce our newest addition, Ferdinand West.”

Evan noticed Wanda's knuckles turning white as she gripped her champagne glass. “Do you know him?” he asked but got no answer.

However, the elegant atmosphere suddenly turned when Ferdinand West, a rising star in the business world, stepped onto the stage. He began recounting his journey from humble beginnings to becoming a self-made millionaire. The audience cheered as Ferdinand spoke about being the first in his family to attend college. He was a handsome man exuding bad-boy charm and charisma.

"…and that's where I met the love of my life," Ferdinand continued, the crowd leaning in to hear more. "But things didn't work out, and she left me. Then, as fate would have it, my business took off, and I became a millionaire just weeks later."

The audience applauded, but Evan couldn't shake the feeling that something was wrong. He glanced at Wanda, her face now pale.

"Tonight," Ferdinand boomed, "I want to share with you all that my ex-wife and I are getting back together. She's here with us. Wanda, would you please stand up?" he pointed in her direction.

In that instant, the entire room seemed to hold its breath. Wanda's eyes grew wide with terror. Evan noticed that her body was trembling as she remained seated. He felt an overwhelming urgency to shield her from the unwanted attention. However, it was too late – all eyes were on their table, and Wanda was exposed.

With trembling legs, Wanda stood up, her eyes locked on Ferdinand. She turned on her heel and fled, her elegant dress billowing behind as she raced through the opulent ballroom.

"Excuse me," Evan murmured, pushing his chair back and following Wanda. He couldn't simply stand by after witnessing the sheer terror in her eyes. Whoever this Ferdinand was, there had to be something evil about that man to scare Wanda.

Evan had to sprint after Wanda, who burst through the back exit. Tears streamed down her face, and he could hear the shaky breaths from her body. She leaned against the cold brick wall on unsteady feet.

"Why?" she sobbed, her hands shaking with frustration. "I changed my hair and returned to my maiden name... and still, he found me."

Evan approached slowly, recognizing the need for caution. "Wanda, what's going on? Who is that man to you?"

She looked at Evan, desperation in her eyes. "Ferdinand West – my ex-husband. For three years, he made my life a living hell. He beat me so many times. I’d die before going back."

"Your ex-husband? Wait, he beat you?" Evan asked, trying to hide his shock. He couldn't believe the woman he had known as a child had suffered so much.

Wanda nodded, her voice barely above a whisper. "I left him over a year ago and got a restraining order. But it seems that doesn't mean anything now."

Evan clenched his fists, his alpha male instincts kicking in. He wanted nothing more than to keep Wanda safe from this monster. Though they hadn't seen each other in over a decade, he couldn't help but think their reunion happened for a reason.

"Listen, Wanda," Evan said softly, touching her shoulder. "I won't let him hurt you. I promise."

Wanda hesitated before nodding, her eyes searching Evan's face, begging for comfort. "Thank you, Evan," she murmured, taking a deep breath.

They stood in silence, united by their shared past and newfound determination. The New Money Gala continued inside, ignoring the drama outside its doors.

Evan's heart raced as he looked around, searching for any signs of Ferdinand lurking nearby. The air felt thick with tension, almost suffocating him as he took in the gravity of the situation.

"Let's get out of here," Evan whispered urgently, his hand tightening around Wanda's arm as they walked together through the shadows. He couldn't shake the feeling that someone was watching, that Ferdinand was just waiting for the right moment to strike. What kind of abusive ex thought freaking out his former partner in public was romantic?

"Where are we going?" Wanda asked softly, her voice trembling with fear. She clung to Evan's side as they moved through the darkness, desperate for protection against the ghost of her past.

"I’m taking you home," Evan replied, his mind racing with plans to keep Wanda hidden from her monstrous ex. He knew it was his fault that Ferdinand had found her at the gala, that he'd inadvertently led the wolf straight to its prey. The guilt weighed heavy on his chest and fueled his determination to protect her.

"Thank you, Evan," Wanda murmured, her eyes glistening. "I don't know what I would do without you."

"Hey," Evan said gently, stopping to face Wanda and cupping her face in his hands. "You don't need to thank me. I should have never let this happen in the first place."

Wanda shook her head, trying to silence his self-blame. "It's not your fault. You didn't know."

"Still," Evan insisted, his jaw set with resolve. "I won't let anything happen to you, Wanda. I promise."

As they continued navigating the dimly lit streets, Evan's thoughts swirled with the possible motives for Ferdinand's actions. Was he seeking revenge for Wanda leaving him, or did he want her back? The uncertainty fueled Evan's protective instincts, and he knew he had always to be vigilant.

"Listen," Evan said as they turned a corner, the city lights growing brighter in the distance. "I know we had our childhood feud and then didn’t see each other forever. But we always had an understanding. Do you remember that day I saved you from Abel and that oncoming car? We will never let the other come to harm if we can stop it. Remember?”

"Yes," Wanda recalled.

"We'll figure out our next move," Evan continued, his eyes scanning their surroundings with heightened alertness. "Whether that means working with the police or finding another way to keep you safe, we'll ensure Ferdinand can't hurt you again."

As they walked, side by side, through the night, Evan felt the weight of responsibility settles on his shoulders. But instead of crushing him, it gave him strength. He would stand tall against any danger for Wanda, determined to shield her from the darkness that threatened to consume her. Nobody would hurt Wanda on his watch.

Chapter Three - Wanda

Wanda stared at the chipped paint on her modest apartment door, a stark reminder of the life she had built away from Ferdinand. The knot in her stomach tightened as she recalled the horrifying moment he found her at the gala. Evan's presence had been comforting as they fled the scene. She didn’t blame Evan for being discovered. It couldn’t be a coincidence that her ex attended an event in the same city she lived in.

She glanced around her tiny living room, feeling a pang of embarrassment. The mismatched furniture and worn-out sofa were a far cry from the luxurious lifestyle Evan must have led as a millionaire. But despite the contrast, Evan had sat with her, his eyes filled with concern, as they talked late into the night. His presence was a soothing balm to her frayed nerves.

"Thank you for staying with me, Evan," she whispered as she watched him walk away by the window. She wished she could hold onto that feeling of safety forever.

Wanda shut the curtains against the golden Sunday morning light with a heavy sigh. Today was hers to think, plan, and figure out what to do next. How does one cope when an abusive ex reappears?

"First things first," she murmured, picking up her phone and dialing the police station. Her heart raced as the line connected, and a gruff voice answered.

"Officer Stevens speaking." The officer sounded resigned and tired. Wanda couldn’t imagine how many calls this one officer had to deal with every day. She would try to keep things brief. After all, the restraining order was in place. Wanda wanted to confirm that and have Ferdinand get a stern reminder that he’s supposed to stay away.

"Hi, Officer Stevens. My name is Wanda. I have a restraining order against my ex-husband, Ferdinand. He tried to talk to me at a public event, and I’m certain that goes against the terms of the order. I want him arrested or warned against further attempts to confront me."

"Let me check for you," he replied, and Wanda could hear the sound of typing in the background. It felt like an eternity, but it was only seven minutes. She counted every second, hoping that once confirmed, there was a way to ensure Ferdinand couldn’t contact her again.

"Ma'am, I'm sorry, but a judge rescinded your restraining order. Ferdinand's lawyer managed to get your claims thrown out in court. They argued that you were emotionally disturbed and easily influenced. I’m surprised nobody informed you of this development." The officer revealed.

Wanda clenched her jaw, her hands shaking. "What? How can they do that without even informing me?" Everything she went through to get away from Ferdinand and have that restraining order set up was for nothing. A random judge threw away all her progress.

"Unfortunately, it's not unheard of," Officer Stevens sighed. "I apologize for the oversight. There is nothing we can do until Ferdinand commits a crime against you or the restraining order gets reinstated. It’s awful when victims aren’t properly protected. I’m sorry, Wanda."

“So I’m supposed to sit and wait until he attacks me?” Wanda demanded, “That’s no protection at all. How can the law do this to people? I’m the victim.”

“Please don’t snap at me. I’m just the messenger,” the officer stated.

"You’re right, I’m sorry. Thanks," Wanda muttered, hanging up the phone. Her thoughts raced as she tried to process the information. She felt betrayed by the system that was supposed to protect her. She was left vulnerable to attacks from Ferdinand at any time in one swoop. No wonder he was so confident about declaring they were still together. Without the restraining order, he could pop by anywhere she frequented and try to make her return.

"Deep breaths, Wanda," she whispered, trying to calm down. But the fear lingered, as did the question: What could she do now? Ferdinand held the cards; worse, he was now a wealthy, legit businessman. Wanda was a receptionist who accidentally killed her goldfish last month. There was no competition here. If Ferdinand came for her, she couldn’t stop him.

***************

Wanda paced the small living room, her steps echoing off the worn wooden floor. The sky was overcast outside her window as she clenched and unclenched her fists. How could this be happening? How were women supposed to trust the justice system if their abusers could have restraining orders rescinded at any time?

Her mind raced back to her years of abuse before finding the strength to turn Ferdinand in. The judge hadn't even given him prison time—just a misdemeanor for battery and a warning never to do it again. Back then, Ferdinand's lawyer boasted they could get that charge dropped, and it seemed that’s what happened—leaving Wanda completely unprepared for Ferdinand’s comeback. Now, he was a charming businessman everyone liked. Wanda felt sick. Her ex-husband was already dangerous and resourceful before becoming rich.

The phone's shrill ring cut through her thoughts, making her jump. She hesitated momentarily, her heart pounding, before picking it up. What kind of ninny was she being scared of a phone? The Ferdinand situation was fraying her nerves.

"Hello?" Wanda tried to answer with a pleasant tone. There was no need to let others know her life was falling apart.

"Hello, Wanda," came the cold, familiar voice. "It's me, Ferdinand."

She swallowed hard. It was evident that Ferdinand would contact her again. But she didn’t expect it would be so soon after the gala. "What do you want?"

"Simple, my dear. We're getting back together. I'm never letting you go because you belong to me." His words were like icy daggers, sending chills down her spine. "And you better not have anything with that Evan guy you ran off with at the gala. I have people who will get their hands dirty getting rid of one silly man trying to take what’s mine. So be a good girl and return to where you belong. By my side, doing everything I want without question."

“Evan’s a friend. Leave him alone,” Wanda begged, “we only reunited a few days ago, and he invited me to the gala. It’s nothing.” If Evan got hurt because of her ex, she would be devastated. Why did Ferdinand have to be such a monster?

“You were always smart as a stump,” Ferdinand sighed, “No man’s taking a broad to something like that for no reason. He was originally supposed to come with his pal, Max.”

“I didn’t know that,” Wanda said. Evan acted like it was a sudden decision. Then she recalled that the baker she met had the same name. Not only did he end up having to do her rush order. She inadvertently stole his ticket to a big-time event. Wanda felt even worse.

“Of course not. You’re a cute idiot, and I like that,” Ferdinand sneered. He always enjoyed putting her down. “Babe.”

"I—I've moved on," Wanda stammered, her voice shaking despite her best efforts. She had worked so hard to be free of Ferdinand. Why was life so cruel? What reason did fate have to bring back this horrible man into her life?

Ferdinand laughed cruelly. She remembered that scary laugh. A slap across her face often followed it. "Pathetic. You will tell everyone that those abuse accusations were lies. I will be your husband again, and you will obey me."

Wanda's throat tightened, tears welling in her eyes. "No, Ferdinand. I won't let you control me anymore."

"Watch me," he replied coldly, “you are mine.”

“Don’t call me again,” Wanda’s voice shook, “it’s over, and I hate you,” she hung up.

Tears streamed down Wanda's face as she returned the phone to its cradle. She wiped her cheeks with her hand, feeling more lost and alone. The weight of Ferdinand's threats settled heavily on her chest, making breathing difficult. She had no restraining order, and Ferdinand was deadset on getting her back. Going to trial again to fight him alone was impossible. Seeing him in the flesh once already almost gave her a fatal heart attack.

"Think, Wanda," she whispered, trying to devise a plan. She knew that running wasn't an option—Ferdinand would find her again somehow. And involving Evan seemed unfair; he was a good person who didn't deserve to get dragged into this mess.

As she stood there, feeling the walls close in around her, Wanda realized that she had to do something. She couldn't let Ferdinand win. She had come too far to let him drag her back into the darkness. Wanda stared out the window, her reflection blurred by the raindrops trickling down the glass. Her heart ached uncertainly and felt as fragile as one of her porcelain tea cups.

"Think, Wanda, think," she muttered, her blue eyes searching the stormy horizon for answers. Running wasn't an option – she'd tried it once before, and Ferdinand still found her. The man was relentless, and now, with his newfound wealth, he had the resources to hunt her down no matter where she went.

A tear slid down her cheek, mingling with the rain outside. She thought of Evan, the kind-hearted businessman who had welcomed her back into his life after all these years. He had money, too, but he was nothing like Ferdinand. Evan was an honorable, decent man who wouldn't dream of crossing the lines her ex-husband eagerly trampled over.

"Maybe I should call him," she whispered, her thoughts turning inward. "He deserves to know about Ferdinand." Evan wouldn’t hesitate to be by her side.

But a part of her hesitated, fearing that involving Evan would only worsen things. How could she ask him to face the monster that haunted her past? What if Ferdinand hurt him, too? Her ex was already furious about seeing her at the gala with another man. It didn’t matter that they were friends. By the time Wanda married Ferdinand, she wasn’t allowed to have male friends. In truth, Ferdinand isolated her from every friend she had.

"Help me," she breathed, barely audible above the howling wind. "I don't know what to do."

Ferdinand was right. She was pathetic. But was it her fault she wasn’t some natural-born fighter? Why should Wanda have to change herself for a monster? The law had turned its back on her, and that’s why this mess was back with a vengeance.

She paced the room, her mind racing as she weighed her options. In the end, she knew the only way to stop Ferdinand was to confront him head-on, to find a way to prove to the world that he was not the charming businessman he pretended to be. Yet the idea of even trying made her want to faint away to the underworld.

"I can’t fight Ferdinand alone," she muttered, grinding her teeth. "But the law has abandoned me, and I don’t want to put Evan in any more danger. I wish my parents were still here.” Now she understood why some folks took the law into their own hands. Everything felt hopeless.

Wanda heard the start of falling rain. Perfect. The weather was matching her foul mood. She wanted to feel courageous and determined to take Ferdinand on. Drive him back into the shadows as a one-woman army. But that’s not the type of person she was. Wanda was a soft woman who hated fighting and used her head. Right now, she was out of ideas. Ferdinand wanted to regain control of her life. She had more to lose now, and her ex knew that. And if Evan learned about her struggle, he would rush to help beat her demons and possibly end up dead.

"What should I do?" Wanda whimpered. She learned a long time ago that nobody got away with crossing Ferdinand. She felt foolish thinking she ever got away from his clutches. Now, he was a celebrated millionaire and businessman. There was no way that he would stay on the sidelines for long. Ferdinand was coming for her.

Chapter Four - Evan

Evan's jaw clenched as he replayed the image of Ferdinand cornering Wanda at the gala. The guilt gnawed at him like a relentless itch, and he knew he couldn't keep it to himself. He sat on the park bench with his friend Max, a beam of sunlight filtering through the canopy of leaves above them.

"Max, I can't help but feel responsible for Wanda getting discovered by that monster," Evan said, his voice tight with frustration.

"Hey, man, it's not your fault," Max reassured him, placing a hand on Evan's shoulder. "Guys like Ferdinand are dangerous and possessive. With his resources, he would've found her eventually."

Evan sighed, watching children playing nearby, their laughter echoing through the park. He wished Wanda could have some of that carefree joy in her life. "I know you're right, Max, but still..."

"Listen, Evan, don't get involved in other people's relationship issues. Just stay safe," Max advised.

Evan nodded, letting Max believe everything was fine. There was no need to drag him into this situation. At least Max wasn't angry about losing his spot at the gala to Wanda anymore. But Evan knew deep down that he couldn't simply stand idly by. He had to protect Wanda, even if he had to do it alone.

As he watched a young girl chasing after a butterfly, Evan's thoughts wandered back to the Wanda he knew as a kid. She was always outgoing, never allowing anyone to push her around too much. She had a soft side and wasn't a physical fighter. Yet now, Wanda seemed so timid, so broken.

He recalled his past, the shame of being a childhood bully weighing heavy on his chest. But he understood that some of his actions came from the neighborhood shunning his family, barely working-class people who could afford a home in a middle-class area. Evan had moved on from those days but never forgot the importance of remembering and respecting those who stood by him.

"Max," Evan said, his voice firm, "I won't let Wanda suffer any longer. I'll do whatever it takes to keep her safe."

"Alright, man," Max replied cautiously, sensing the determination in Evan's tone. "Just remember, you can only do so much."

Evan nodded, watching the children play in the sunlit park. He knew this wouldn't be easy, but he had to try. For Wanda's sake, he would find a way.

*************

Evan approached the glass doors of Wanda's office building, his heart pounding with concern and determination. He couldn't shake the feeling that he needed to see her to protect her from Ferdinand's grasp. As he crossed the polished marble floor of the lobby, he made sure to speak with the security guard on duty.

"Hi, I'm here to see Wanda," Evan said, flashing a reassuring smile. "Could you please let her know I'm here?"

"Of course, sir," the guard replied, picking up the phone to inform Wanda of her visitor.

Evan waited anxiously, eyes scanning the reception area for any sign of danger. When Wanda emerged from behind her desk, her face lit up with a shy blush at seeing him. That radiant smile warmed Evan's heart and ignited his protective instincts. He didn't want anything or anyone to extinguish that light ever again.

"Hey, Evan," she greeted him softly, a hint of surprise in her voice. "I wasn't expecting you."

"I just wanted to see if you were okay," he replied. "And I hoped we could talk."

Wanda ran a finger through her dark hair. "Did you get any strange phone calls recently?"

Evan shook his head. "No, nothing like that. Why do you ask?"

"Never mind," Wanda murmured, unwilling to burden him with her fears. "Let me take a short break so we can chat. My co-worker Ebony offered to cover for me.”

Wanda told Evan that she worked in a friendly environment where she felt supported and understood. Mr. Roberts, their boss, had hired Wanda after she openly explained her past as a survivor of abuse. He knew firsthand the devastating consequences of domestic violence, having lost his sister to it.

With Ferdinand's reappearance at the gala, Wanda had emailed Mr. Roberts about the situation. In response, he immediately updated security with Ferdinand's photo and ordered them not to let him in under any circumstances. Every unguarded entrance or exit was locked until further notice, creating a fortress around Wanda.

Evan led Wanda to a quiet corner of the lobby, the sunlight streaming through the windows casting a warm glow on their faces. He was relieved that Wanda had people who cared and made an effort to ensure her safety.

"Thanks for coming to check on me," she said, her voice barely above a whisper.

"Of course," Evan replied, his heart swelling with protectiveness. "I just want you to be safe, Wanda."

As they sat there, talking about everything and nothing, the world outside seemed to fade away. For a moment, they were simply two souls reconnecting, drawing strength from each other in the face of adversity. But even within the sanctuary of the office building, the threat of Ferdinand loomed like a shadow, a reminder that the battle to keep Wanda safe was far from over.

Evan and Wanda sat in the waiting area, surrounded by the muted colors and soft lighting that gave the space a sense of calm. Evan turned to face her. "How are you holding up, Wanda?"

"Day by day," she replied, her voice steady but carrying an undercurrent of vulnerability. "That's all I can do right now."

As they talked, Evan found himself marveling at the luck of their reunion. "You know, if you hadn't come into the bakery that day, we might never have crossed paths again," he said, a smile playing at the corners of his mouth. "It almost feels like fate, doesn't it?"

Wanda laughed, a light, tinkling sound that made Evan's heart swell. "That's a bit silly, don't you think? But I am glad we met again. And I'm so happy for your success, Evan." Her blue eyes sparkled with sincerity. "I had no idea you were such a wizard in the kitchen."

He chuckled, shaking his head. "Neither did I for a long time. I learned from my grandmother and great-grandmother, but my mother couldn't cook to save her life. It was a secret talent until I got a job as a chef after flunking out of law school – a path my father wanted me to take, not one I desired. But every experience taught me how to move forward, and eventually, I participated in culinary contests and won big. Now, I'm just grateful for how far I've come."

"Rightfully so," Wanda agreed, her gaze warm and admiring. "You've achieved so much."

Their conversation was interrupted by the sudden arrival of a security guard, who jogged over to them and leaned down to whisper something into Wanda's ear. Evan watched as the color drained from her face, her eyes widening with fear.

"Is everything alright?" he asked, his brow furrowing with worry.

Wanda swallowed hard, her voice barely audible. "Ferdinand is trying to get into the building. Security stopped him, but he's insisting that I want to see him and that we're just having a lover's quarrel."

Evan's hands clenched into fists, anger boiling at Ferdinand's audacity. For the man to be this brazen meant he believed he could break Wanda – but Evan wouldn't let that happen. He would do whatever it took to protect her and ensure she had the chance at the life she deserved.

Evan's jaw tightened as he studied Wanda's frightened expression, her blue eyes filled with dread. Turning to the security guard, he asked, "Is there a back way out of here?"

The guard nodded. "Yes, it's through the service corridor. I can show you."

"Thank you," Evan replied, determination etched on his face. He turned to Wanda and tried to offer her a reassuring smile. "Listen, I have a limo waiting outside, and I don't want you trying to find a taxi while Ferdinand is lurking around. I think it's best to return to my place for now."

Wanda hesitated, her fingers toying with the hem of her blouse. "I don't know, Evan. Are you sure it's safe?"

"I promise," Evan said firmly, his grey eyes locking onto hers. "I won't let anything happen to you."

Taking a deep breath, Wanda finally nodded in agreement. She pulled out her cell phone and dialed Mr. Roberts' number, hushedly explaining the situation.

“Find a way out of the building without Ferdinand noticing,” Mr. Robert instructed, “Since the restraining order’s gone, the most I can do is call the police to complain about Ferdinand’s refusal to leave our property after being rejected entry.”

“I’m so sorry to put you through this,” Wanda apologized, “I have a friend with me. We’ll leave together.”

“Excellent, stay safe and don’t come back to work until you’re sure things have died down,” Mr. Roberts said, “We’ll get by without you for a while. Take care, Wanda.”

Relief washed over her face. “I will, Mr. Roberts, thank you.”

Evan listened in, grateful for Mr. Roberts' support. It was a shame that Ferdinand had managed to shatter Wanda's sense of safety at her workplace – a place that had provided her a chance to rebuild her life.

With the security guard leading the way, Evan guided Wanda through the dimly lit service corridor. The scent of cleaning supplies and stale air filled their nostrils as they made their way toward the exit. Wanda clutched Evan's arm, and he wrapped a protective arm around her shoulders. Stepping outside felt like escaping prison.

"Almost there," Evan whispered. "Just a little bit further."

Evan's heart pounded as they neared the limo, the sleek black vehicle a beacon of safety amid the chaos. His grip on Wanda's hand tightened, her fingers trembling like fragile glass within his own.

"We made it, Wanda," Evan reassured her, trying to ignore the unease crawling up his spine. But even as the words left his lips, a man across the street turned in their direction.

"Hey, Wanda! You can't get away!" The man yelled, his voice harsh, twisting like a knife in Evan's gut. He turned toward the sound, spotting the goon signaling to someone hidden from view. "Ferdinand! She's over here!"

Adrenaline surged through Evan's veins, propelling him into action. He pushed Wanda forward, urging her to hurry as they sprinted toward the limo. They practically stumbled inside, slamming the door shut behind them.

"Go, now!" Evan barked at the driver, panic clawing at the edges of his voice. "We're being chased!"

The driver nodded, his face set in a determined grimace. As he reversed and sped off, someone slammed against the side of the limo, leaving a sickening thud in their ears. As promised, the driver's knuckles whitened around the steering wheel, "I'll keep you both safe."

Evan glanced at Wanda, her eyes wide with fear, and tried to smother his rising panic. Ferdinand had gone too far. If Wanda had been alone when she left work, one of those goons might have grabbed her.

Evan couldn't help but wonder if his property would be enough of a safe haven. Though he had security measures in place, the thought of Ferdinand's relentless pursuit haunted him. Wanda’s ex would cross any line to get her back.

"Are you okay?" Evan asked, his voice barely audible over the drone of the engine.

Wanda nodded, her breath hitching as she fought back tears. "I'm just... I can't believe this is happening."

"Hey," Evan said softly, squeezing her hand. "I won't let anything happen to you. We'll figure this out together."

As they sped away from the scene, Evan's thoughts raced, plotting their next move. He knew he had to do whatever it took to protect Wanda from Ferdinand and his thugs. And though he couldn't predict what would come next, he vowed to stand by Wanda's side, no matter the cost.

#writers of tumblr #writers life #freelance writing #scam alert #contemporary romance

0 notes

sheenakgraham · 2 years ago

Text

Falling For The Billionaire - Outline and Excerpt

Please read the inserted post link below for reference to a scam I recently experienced while doing freelance work. This post shows the first of two posts of said work I'm sharing online for free to mark them as mine in case any other posts or stories show up in the future with a different name stamped on it.

Falling for the Billionaire

Summary

I am Vanessa Simpson, and I have to stop having sex with my clients. As a fitness instructor, I work with the rich and famous. Then I made the front page of a tabloid being chased by my client’s furious ‘not really an ex-wife.’ Now I’m hired by billionaire business mogul Patrick Collins, known for being strict and zero fun.

I have to stick to his rules: no dating, must live in his mansion, eat healthily while under contract, don’t speak before he does, dress well, stay out of his personal chambers, and don’t fall for him. The rules seem easy enough until they’re not.

I see a parade of women come and go. I find out he doesn’t date a woman for more than two weeks if he doesn’t fall in love with her. I still do my best to stay out of the way. No matter how deliciously handsome he is and how much I want to nibble on his earlobe like my favorite cupcake.

Then I comment during a meal that I could make any man fall in love with me. Patrick takes that as a personal challenge and decides to have me date him. I refuse at first, not wanting to risk my career with another scandal. He turns it into a bet. He'll give me seven million dollars if we date for two weeks and don’t fall in love. I accept.

But as we get closer with the dates, talks, and less than formal nightcaps. My walls come tumbling down. My heart melts upon finding out why he gives love only weeks. But a new scandal breaks out. Except it’s not about me, and if it’s true, Patrick and I are over.

Tropes used: Billionaire, Forced Proximity, Off-Limits, Boss Relationship.

Male: Alpha Male Billionaire/businessman

Female: Independent, Smart Sassy/career driven/fitness instructor characters Description

(More will be added as the story progresses)

Vanessa Simpson - A dark-haired fitness instructor with blue eyes, cream skin, and a curly physique. She’s self-conscious because of her secret binging of cupcakes. An independent career woman who doesn’t let having a job interfere with having fun.

Patrick Collins - A no-nonsense businessman and billionaire. He’s always focused on the prize. Have a thriving business, get a suitable soulmate, and one day have a family. He’s six foot two, olive-skinned, and brown-haired with brown eyes.

Amy - Vanessa’s assistant and friend. A blonde peppy woman.

Hannah Grant - The head of Patrick’s PR team. A business-oriented redhead.

Rachel Ellis - Patrick’s previous soulmate who died.

Mr. and Mrs. Ellis - Rachel’s parents.

Outline

Chapter One - Vanessa

I can’t believe I’m on the front page of a trashy tabloid. Eugene was a worthless liar who convinced me he was on the verge of divorce. I’m a conniving mistress because his wife was abroad caring for teen twins fighting cancer. Clients have already started to drop me. But Amy, my assistant, gives me my saving grace.

Patrick Collins wants to interview me to be his new fitness instructor. The no-nonsense businessman is a surprise client to someone like myself. I must make this new job work; Patrick is a big-time get for me. Not too often, I’m hired by billionaire businessmen, mainly Hollywood types, like Eugene. So I have to suck it up and ensure I get this offer.

Chapter Two - Patrick

My PR team nearly flung me out the plate glass window when they saw my choice for a new fitness instructor. Especially the head, Hannah Grant. Vanessa, to them, is a disaster waiting to happen. But I see her as the perfect distraction for the media. I keep getting hounded about who I am dating and when I will marry. With this new instructor, they will focus on her because of the sex scandal and think she’s my secret mistress. A perfect way for me to continue my life with less hassle. After all, ladies like her are used to tabloids chasing them around.

The interview goes well. Vanesa’s just as spunky as I expected. But she had a wit about her that made me feel there’s more than what meets the eye after accepting Vanessa’s application and heading to my limo. Hannah cut me off, saying I better know what I’m doing. I remind Hannah that I’m the boss, and she better not forget it.

Chapter Three- Vanessa

Upon arriving at the mansion, I’m sent to speak with Patrick. I’m told I was hired because I’m not his type and will keep him focused on his exercise routine and business. His hotness doesn’t hide that alpha male streak and high brow rich attitude. I notice how he looks at me, though, despite his claims. I’m focused on staying out of trouble. I accept the job and his rules and pray I stay out of trouble.

Chapter Four - Patrick

When a woman I dumped went crazy in the mansion, Vanessa saw this, and I was mortified. My security team had to drag out Ophelia, who kept screaming that I was a liar and a two-timer. I was so close to choosing her as my permanent girlfriend when the last-minute information left out of the previous background check changed my mind. It’s not my fault her family covered up that she choked a college roommate over an ex-boyfriend. Now I’m certain I dodged a bullet.

Chapter Five - Vanessa

So much for Mr. High Class, these rich business types are no better than the Hollywood ones. They only hide their dirty laundry better. I focus on Patrick’s exercise routine and staying out of trouble. It’s just a few months, and then I’m free and clear. Good to know Patrick’s a scumbag like many other men. He’s still a handsome man, at least.

Chapter Six - Patrick

I try to temper the flow of beautiful women coming to my mansion. I can still feel that smirk from Vanessa haunting me. Why do I care about the thoughts of the help? The media is taking the bait, focusing on Vanessa and less on me. I ensure she gets plenty of time outside so they can snap their photos. I walk out once to whisper some last-second nonsense that sends the reporters into a tailspin. One breaks through and tries to grab her. I put the man in a headlock before my security team could act. Vanessa thanked me repeatedly. How will I keep my mind on business around this beautiful woman?

Chapter Seven - Vanessa

Staying away from my boss while living under his roof is tough enough. Now he’s my knight in shining armor. I swear that something is out to get me. My loins are burning through my fitness gear, isn’t that punishment enough? I make a wrong turn and end up in Patrick’s bedroom, which has Patrick’s Main Chamber emblazoned above the doorway. Why? Billionaires are weird. I try to walk out but trip over my own feet. I am dazed until I hear a voice. It’s Patrick, wondering why I’m there. I mumble something while my face is still deep into the carpeting. He helps me up, and I giggle. But the way he looks at me is different. The next second we’re kissing each other hungrily.

Chapter Eight- Patrick

I have clearly lost my mind. I might as well sleep with my security team if I’m going to be this reckless. At least they signed hardcore NDAs, even the men. Vanessa’s NDA was pretty simple since she was only supposed to work for me for three months- as media bait. I want to hate and love Vanessa at the same time. This is maddening.

Chapter Nine - Vanessa

Patrick’s an interesting man. I knew I was lusting after him. But could there be anything more? Was I ready to give myself completely a man with a weird two-week dating fetish? Not on your life. But it’s getting more tempting to stop keeping him at arm’s length. Why did he have to be so handsome? Wish he had a fiery personality beyond the bedroom.

Chapter Ten - Patrick

Vanessa was one of the most beautiful women I’ve ever seen. Her work dedication wasn’t bad either. I didn’t want to be with some airhead of a woman. She was smart and willing to work hard. Even my hardcore business ethics were starting to feel a little old-fashioned. Perhaps I needed to let loose to get closer to her. How can I think so much about a woman I’m not supposed even to like?

Chapter Eleven - Vanessa

I am aching to find a man for some sexy time. But there’s no dating while I’m under Patrick’s contract. Kind of a silly rule, but this job this top billings, so I have to tough it out. I wonder what my life will be like when I settle down. Will it be true love or one of these mutually beneficial marriages? My parents are the latter and are still married. Not happily, but they get along. That is probably why I stick to quickie sex and short-term relationships. No ball and chain for me. If my partner doesn’t love me back, what’s the point?

Chapter Twelve - Patrick

I try to focus on being a normal dominant man when Vanessa declares she can make any fall for her. My blood boils. I don’t want her with anyone else. I make a bet and offer her seven million dollars if we don’t fall in love for two weeks. She accepts, and I’m officially insane.

Chapter Thirteen - Vanessa

Seven million dollars has a nice ring to it. No way am I falling in love with a wet blanket like Patrick. No matter how hot he is. The date bet can only benefit me. I can retire with that kind of money. Send my parents on a second Hawaii vacation and get them a new house. Good thing I’m an only child. Dating Patrick isn’t as bad as I thought. I feared he would take me for a private museum tour or a fancy luncheon about stock options. Instead, we go to a ranch just to ride horses and have a picnic. Patrick admitted he read in a magazine that he always wanted a horse. I am touched. Perhaps he’s not so bad after all.

Chapter Fourteen - Patrick

I could tell that Vanessa liked my dating choice. I would’ve chosen a formal luncheon for our first date, but I had a feeling that wouldn’t satisfy her and went a different route. I told her about my childhood life and how strict things were. After my parent’s died in a plane accident on my nineteenth birthday, there was no time to mourn. I had to take over the business as an only child. I needed to be in charge. Vanessa took my hand and said she understood. Even if she thought I had a stick up my butt. Despite being offended, I burst out laughing.

Chapter Fifteen - Vanessa

Patrick’s not as stuck up as I thought. As a free spirit, I could never live with a man who only wanted me as some silent arm candy. The women he used to parade around the mansion were those rich girls raised to marry wealthy man type. The one you knew would be a trophy wife, a woman behind the man type of wife, or a family woman. None would focus on a career that would take her far from Patrick’s side or go against his instructions. I’m nothing like that. I have to have my career and money. I decided to take Patrick to where I used to eat when I first moved to Los Angeles. A tiny sandwich shop with the greasiest food. He was hesitant, but I got him to eat some fries and half a sandwich. Watching him struggle was hilarious, and I laughed when he asked the cashier about kale smoothies. We had a good time, and it was nice he was willing to do this with me.

Chapter Sixteen - Patrick

I am smitten. It’s crazy that I know I’m in love in less than a week. This is Rachel all over again, except this time it’s Vanessa. The fitness instructor tabloid queen. Who I promised millions if she didn’t fall for me. How foolish can I get? Alphas are supposed to be dominant and smart. Now I feel timid and silly. When Vanessa asks me about my strange two-week rule, I tell her about my lost love, Rachel. Vanessa wipes a tear off my cheek and kisses me. Stating I’m not that bad and Rachel’s death wasn’t my fault. I hold her close and sit in silence.

Chapter Seventeen - Vanessa

Patrick had been an absolute gentleman. His dominant side is now more protective than suffocating, and we’re getting closer. Seven million’s still a lot of money. But perhaps some things matter more than money. Risking love might be worth possibly throwing away millions. Never in my life would I ever think I’d consider a move like this.

Chapter Eighteen - Patrick

An emergency business retreat threw my love plans on the back burner. I had to go to Aspen for two days. I wanted to cancel, but Hannah and my security heads balked. The rumors that I was becoming lax because I was doing overtime yoga with my fitness instructor were bad enough. So I had to grudgingly tell Vanessa I would be back soon.

Chapter Nineteen - Vanessa

I am in love. I tried to deny it, but I know after hearing what happened to Rachel. I don’t want to die feeling unloved or be in a loveless marriage like my parents. Sure, I can continue doing one-night stands and no strings attached relationships. But I want more, and Patrick probably feels the same.

Chapter Twenty - Patrick

Vanessa called to say she had something to tell me, but it had to be face-to-face. I apologize for the delay at the business retreat, and I’ll be back tomorrow evening. She was graceful about it. I hung up, feeling excited. I bet she was ready to declare her love for me. I couldn’t wait to return. Nothing could ruin this moment.

Chapter Twenty-one - Vanessa

I was ready to tell Patrick how I felt. Counting down the hours his return when breaking news comes online. Winter and Sebastian Ellis, Rachel’s parents, are suing Patrick because Rachel didn’t really die from suicide. She died from complications from a botched abortion he forced her to do. I fall to my knees in horror.

Twenty-two - Patrick

I nearly passed out when the news broke during my business meeting. Everyone looks at me like I’m a monster. I swear I had no idea where this rumor came from and rushed back to the mansion—calling my PR team and ordering them to fix this.

Chapter Twenty-three - Vanessa

I felt like such a fool. I let another man trick me. After this, I don’t see myself getting married. Why risk a lifetime of heartache? I gulp down two packs of cupcakes and half a bottle of vodka. How did I become such a sucker? I’m supposed to be a smart and independent woman. So much for that.

Chapter Twenty-four - Patrick

I arrived and saw Vanessa packing. I try to tell her this isn’t real, but she demands why the parents have a voice message of Rachel crying and begging me not to make her abort our baby. I almost pass away. I never got such a message. I beg Vanessa to stay while I sort everything out. She gives me four days. Otherwise, she wants her seven million, and I’m never to contact her again. She mumbles about loving the wrong people and storms off to her room.

Chapter Twenty-five - Vanessa

I decided to spend a day out with Amy. I needed a familiar face. Most of my fair-weather friends had completely deserted me. Claiming I was too toxic right now. Hannah called to check on me and suggested I take the money and move on. I had to wonder if she was right. But Amy stated I should wait things out, declaring I was happiest with Patrick. I’m not sure what to do.

Chapter Twenty-six - Patrick

I’m not losing Vanessa over these lies. I have my best lawyers looking into what happened. I tried to meet with Rachel’s parents, but their representatives practically laughed me off the phone. Everyone thinks I’m some monster that drove Rachel to her death. I thought the parents were making things up at first. But now I’m not so sure. Yet if I can’t find the truth, I’ll lose my new soulmate, Vanessa. I refuse to let that happen.

Chapter Twenty-seven - Vanessa

I am torn. Perhaps Patrick is telling the truth, and this is some sort of setup. But then I have to believe that Ellis’s made this all up for a payday. The people I saw onscreen didn’t look capable of that. They were in pain, and I could tell.

I decided to find them. I lied about being a friend of Rachel to get access. Then I confessed the truth. Instead of being paid, Rachel’s parents begged me to stay away from Patrick. Letting me listen to all the voice messages in full. That’s when I got the shock of my life. Rachel’s voice was there, but the person claiming Patrick wanted her to have an abortion and leave wasn’t Patrick. In fact, they claimed to represent him.

Chapter Twenty-eight - Patrick

I’m at a loss for words. Members of my own PR team betrayed me. All because Rachel was blind, and they thought marrying someone like that would ruin my image. Worse, they made her abort a baby I never knew existed. Apparently, Rachel’s suicide attempt with the pills was a failure. But the infection from the poorly done abortion killed her instead. Found out in a later autopsy that my PR team was bribed to keep them buried until Mr. Ellis did digging as a private investigator and found out how his daughter really died. I’m bereft and do a press conference revealing everything. The Ellis’s thank me for the truth.

Chapter Twenty-nine - Vanessa

Hannah and every team member who knew about this is fired and faced legal charges. Patrick kissed me repeatedly, grateful that I figured out the truth. Patrick said that he loved me and proposed. I said yes.

Chapter Thirty - Patrick

Six months later, I’m happily married to Vanessa. I couldn’t imagine life without her. Plus, she got to send her parents a luxury vacation and buy them a condo. Her Mom admitted to falling in love with Dad, who says he always loved Vanessa’s mom all along but was scared to say it out loud. I’m glad they’re moving forward. Vanessa and I have breakfast in bed, kissing and cuddling. I swung Vanessa around in joy when she revealed that she was pregnant. We are going to be the perfect family.

--------

Falling for the Billionaire - Five Chapter Excerpt

Chapter One - Vanessa

I looked great for a woman on the cover of a tabloid being chased by another man’s wife.

I knew that wasn’t the point, but a single ugly photo could tank my career as a fitness instructor to the rich and famous. In the photo, I wore my favorite blue exercising outfit as my long dark hair flew behind me while I ran for my life. I tightly held my cappuccino and my favorite cupcake order in an inconspicuous brown paper bag. Behind me, like a bat from hell, a blonde woman with a bob cut, purple silk blouse, black pencil skirt, and grey clogs gave chase. What’s not in the photo is me screaming at my Uber ride to open the door so we could escape.

Not that being known as a homewrecker doesn’t put me at risk. How was I supposed to know that Eugene Quaker was lying through his teeth? I thought dating an account to the wealthy was my ticket to easy street. The gifts were wonderful, and the sex was adequate. I’m not expecting a person focused on numbers to be the master of the bedroom. Now the sight of those ill-gotten gains sickens my stomach.

My assistant smirked as I stormed into our tiny business space. Several clients had already canceled, and the next four months were wide open. Great for relaxing, but that’s not my job. Fitness isn’t only about looking good; image and feeling fantastic matters. Right now, I feel ridiculous.

Why can’t a career-oriented woman mix sex and work like men often do? If I were a man, this might blow over fast. But as a woman? We’re not allowed to make mistakes. Even the wronged wife who chased me was called crazy in other tabloids and accused of neglecting Eugene. No wonder she lost her mind and chose me to vent at. Eugene was the only one working and making the big bucks. Better to brand me as the other woman ruining the family than confront her rich bastard of a husband and risk being divorced and left with nothing.

Now I’m another woman who fell for the lies of a man who pretended to be divorced. No matter who he was, I would never have anything with a married man. I might not be chasing marriage, but I respect the institution. If I wanted to be a gold-digging man stealer, I wouldn’t be fighting for my piece of the fitness world. A space dominated by men and most top women didn’t last two years. They got married and left or fell behind and gave up. Not me.

Worse, the wife was abroad in Sweden caring for teen twins with cancer. A fact that got hidden from the public eye until she popped up behind me at a Starbucks and started yelling. Eugene was a true asshole, and he dragged me down with him. A separation and a divorce are two different things. An accountant working for Hollywood big leagues should know better. Petunia was his first love and high school sweetheart. So much for love lasting forever. In the end, there’s no way I could beat the accusation of being the monster who tried to tear a family apart with sick kids.

“Vanessa Simpson, I have great news,” my assistant practically sang as she hurried to me.

“Amy, unless it’s to say after forty-eight hours, everyone’s forgotten about me. I don’t know what that could be,” I told the peppy blonde. I checked my phone only to see another cancelation with the client stating I was a blight against feminism.

“How about Patrick Collins wanting you to be his fitness instructor?” Amy squealed, hopping around in her full pink outfit. Unlike most businesses in L.A., my assistant became one of my dearest friends. She grew up here and was an old fixture in entertainment as a child actress. After her acting career dried up, she wanted to be a doctor. But her parents squandered all their savings, and getting a couple of commercials wasn’t paying the bills. When she answered my employment ad, I was skeptical. But today, I wouldn’t be where I am without her.

“The businessman with a skyscraper up his ass?” I asked, “Maybe he got the wrong number. His last instructor believed that Mars and Earth are twin planets that split from each other.”

“So what? He’s loaded and hot. That works for you,” Amy said, and I can’t argue with facts, “but please don’t go down on this one. Find a nice background actor or tennis coach who wants a quickie so we both can stay in business?” Sometimes I wondered if I let Amy talk back too much. But I didn’t want an employee who kissed my ass, so here we are.

“Cute, so Mr. Collins is off-limits. I get it,” I sighed, “when does he want to meet his people?”

“He wants to meet you personally in two hours,” Amy revealed.

I nearly fell over my butt. Why didn’t Amy lead with that essential tidbit? I have to get going if I’m going to look appropriate enough to lure in a top-level client in less time than a Christopher Nolan movie. “What? Why so soon?”

“He’s a billionaire, I don’t know,” Amy shrugged, “after the recent nightmare with you being the lady who tried to steal the father of cancer kids, you take what you can get.”

The biggest thing I hate about wealthy clients is their demand for instant results. They act as if I can do everything by magic. It took work to be fit, and training someone inexperienced in an exercise routine is a nightmare. Add money, and it’s way worse. Patrick was at least a handsome bachelor with deep pockets. I could get lost in those sensual brown eyes of his.

I had a twenty-four hour waiting period before seeing clients. It’s both a professional and safety issue. From reporters to perverts, you must be careful who might target your celebrity inclined business. So I can vet clients, prepare myself, and strike out the creeps. Usually, I would demand an extension for anyone who tried to rush the process. But now isn’t the time to turn down a billionaire client. I might get positive press working with a handsome, well-known businessman. Show that I’m not only working with cheaters.

“Tell my stylist I need them yesterday and see what you can do about getting me a nice headline from a paper or website people still read,” I said, packing away my things.

I should wear one of my more formal suits. I’m more a tight dress for men, maxi dresses for women type when on interviews. But that’s not what Patrick might want. Business people wanted to work with like-minded folks. This mentality was why a group of actors might look like a rainbow versus a group of businessmen looking like a dark cloud floating down the street. Being the ideal business person was physically looking like everyone else while having inspiring ideas. Thank goodness I never took the advice to get a butch haircut. I hate wearing wigs beyond special events.

“Jordan is waiting in your penthouse. Should I tell him to return after your job?” Amy asked. The look in her eyes told me I should cancel this no strings attached fling immediately. She’s not wrong. I have to be on my best behavior right now.

I considered for a moment. I’m a twenty-five year old woman with a thin but curvy body that I don’t mind showing off. With white skin, blue eyes, and plenty of personality, I know I’m a catch for any lucky man. Jordan was a background actor with Greek features and tan skin. We met on set when I got the rare chance to be an extra in an indie film. We have an arrangement of sex only and hang out on rare occasions. Neither of us was looking for anything serious, which worked for me. With Eugene out of the picture, he was back.

“Send the stylist to the penthouse. I can get down with Jordan before I have a small dry spell to ensure no more weird work scandals happen to me.” I deserved something nice after all the drama I had been through. Why deprive myself during challenging times?

“You better be right,” Amy returned to her desk, “I love you, Vanessa. But if this scandal gets any worse. I will have to consider resigning. I can’t get embroiled in controversy now that the best series I starred in as a kid is making a comeback on the rerun circuit.”

I recalled that Amy asked for time off to go to a convention. This opportunity was her big break. I better get this Patrick guy to hire me so that I can keep my friend and best employee. Along with rebuilding my reputation, I’d be dead meat if the three other fitness experts working under me quit.

Chapter Two - Patrick

“I can send you to work in Alaska, Hannah.” I gritted my teeth, hearing her thousandth sigh. I was a billionaire mogul about to interview a new hire, and I had to deal with one of my best employees behaving like a toddler. Whoever said money and good looks got you everything didn’t meet Lady Heart of Stone sticking to my side. She wasn’t even supposed to be here.

“At least the people there would be grateful for my input,” Hannah ran fingers through her red hair. A habit I told her repeatedly to stop. But today, she had good reason. As head of my PR team, she thought I was about to ruin my business and reputation. “Why do you have to hire that bimbo instead of a real fitness instructor?”

Hannah Grant was the kind woman little girls today aspire toward. A take-nothing woman who needed no man and talked to their boss like they owned the company. She was also beautiful with pale white skin, curly long red hair, a petite five-foot-two doll frame, and round green eyes. Of course, most of them couldn’t do the job that Hannah does, so that will be their pipe dream. Talent and results will allow anyone to be a bitch any day.

Rumor was Eugene, the cheater accountant, had used a favor to acquire her services under the table. The tabloid blight plaguing Vanessa right now had my dear devil girl’s handprints all over it. Even the legit papers were painting Petunia as a woman caught in a no win situation against a hot mistress taking advantage of her absence to seduce a naive bean counter. Now I wanted to hire the woman that’s being destroyed by the media.

But I had a great reason. The media and tabloid machine couldn’t manufacture enough gossip and hit articles with celebrities anymore. The appetites of their audiences had become too vast, and the entertainment industry was becoming wise to ways to avoid scandals. Now these vultures were determined to turn the professional business industry into their latest playground, and I was target number one in Los Angeles. I needed a distraction to keep them busy, and I knew the right person for the job.

“Again, Sir. I can get rid of her,” the head of security stated. He was six foot eight and built like a tank. “A woman this tiny can fit into a travel bag. Say the word, and it’s done.”

“Brian, I know all your skeletons,” Hannah glared.

“So I had stripper days in the military,” Brian bumped Hannah with his hip, and she screamed, “That was barely anything, and I’m gay.”

“Behave, or I will fire you both,” I warned and exited the elevator.

“My glasses almost fell,” Hannah mumbled and followed me.

Wired Collin Industries ran multiple businesses across the globe. The business empire started nine generations ago, and back then, ‘wired’ didn’t have the drug slang attached. Our families had one to two kids at most these days. Less chance of a kid wanting to be a Tiktoker or nature activist when you have the resources to drill business into them. Once, I wanted to be an opera singer. Not the worst aspiration, but after my mother had two miscarriages, it became clear I was the only heir. So I put aside childish dreams and focused on being head of the business one day. After my parents died in a plane crash, my fate was sealed.

As a thirty-two year old man with olive skin, a figure women said was chiseled by God, six foot two, brown wavy hair, and hazel eyes. I was already a stunner to most. My business-minded personality and high-level intellect were what I valued most. I didn’t want to look like a troll, but I never aspired to be a popular rich airhead like some wealthy folks.

When I entered the interview room, I was surprised that Vanessa had arrived. There was still a half-hour before the appointed time. She was either punctual or desperate. Both worked for me. I looked down at the body of a fit beautiful woman. Too many ladies in this city ate themselves too thin. Vanessa had curves to go along with her beauty, and I loved women with long hair. I averted my eyes and hoped I didn’t stare at her too long. I didn’t want to give the idea that I valued her beyond being an employee and a secret distraction.

With Vanessa around, I know the media will focus on her presence. Follow her everywhere, looking for an opportunity to catch that woman with me. That will never happen. But I have to give the idea that it’s possible. Perhaps let her use my limo service a few times. Have an anonymous gift basket appear at her office with a few of my favorite wines and cheeses. In comparison, I stick to the usual boring things I do publicly, aside from a few dates and work trips. Those leeches will salivate over my new fitness instructor and lose their minds.

“Good afternoon, Vanessa Simpson,” I addressed her when everyone was seated, “when I gave you a short window to arrive, I never thought you would make it.”

“The early bird catches the worm,” Vanessa smiled.

“I hope you know what a wonderful opportunity you have here,” Hannah said.

“I didn’t know PR people did interviews,” Vanessa said, “aren’t you supposed to vet me incognito?”

“Hannah’s curious about you,” I chuckled, “she will not be in charge of the interview.”

“Too bad. I wore this purple business suit to appease anyone who looked down on me,” Vanessa never lost her smile. I was starting to like her fiery spirit.

Hannah gripped the glass table but stayed silent. She knew better than to defy me in front of new people.

“Sir,” one of the secretaries walked in, “there’s an urgent letter you need to read.”

I took it and looked over the contents. I barely contained my rage. The PR team had sent me a memo protesting Vanessa’s hire. Stating I was pushing them into thinking I needed to get pushed through a plate glass window. The signatures on the paper included four from the team, twelve employees from various businesses, and three of my relatives. There would be hell to pay for this defiance. I was the boss, not them.

I walked over to Hannah. After balling up the paper, I dropped it in her lap. “Fire everyone who signed that thing; if it happens again, your head will roll too.”

“Yes, Sir,” Hannah said.

I sat back in my seat. “Vanessa, do you think you are the right person for this job.”

“Frankly no,” Vanessa surprised me, “a businessman like you hires someone above reproach or some weird savant who claims astrology says you’ll make or lose a fortune. But I am the perfect fitness instructor if you want to stay fit or become even better. I will ensure you’re exercised well, and you will enjoy it. Too many today want to break their clients. I want to mold what’s already there. I know you’re a handsome man with a blessed physique. I’ll help you become even better. That’s my resume, no matter what tabloids say.”

“Your resume also boasts years of experience working with high-level clients in Hollywood,” one of the hiring managers said, “did you get Twinkie Girl down to size so she could become the face of that French perfume two years ago?”

“Yes, and her name’s Garnet Rogers,” Vanessa beamed, “I want my clients to follow their dreams. If my instruction can help, that’s a bonus. I want them to be healthy and happy. The two things work hand in hand.”

“Sometimes,” I mumbled.

“Always,” Vanessa corrected me, and the room went silent.

“Excuse me?” I stared intensely at her.

“They always go hand in hand,” Vanessa stated, “a miserable healthy person is a sad person, and that’s not healthy no matter how sexy you might look on the outside.”

The murmurs at the table increased. Nobody back-talked me in an interview, much less twice.

A laugh caught everyone’s attention. It was Hannah. “You are a crazy one.”

Vanessa responded by blowing her a kiss. This was woman impossible and precisely what I needed.

“You’re hired,” I stood to my feet, “I need you to be at the mansion within forty-eight hours, and there will be a contract for you to sign tomorrow. My legal team will call your office tomorrow with where to meet.”

“Sir!” another hiring manager protested.

“Wait, I’m hired?” Vanessa asked, “Thank you, you won’t regret this. I need to call Amy. I have to call my parents and my spokesperson.”

I walked out with a grin on my face. This little vixen was the perfect patsy. I am a genius.

“You better know what you’re doing,” Hannah appeared by my side.

“Never forget I’m the boss,” I told her, heading for the parking lot.

Chapter Three - Vanessa

I exited the limo and followed a smiling woman through the mansion's front doors. The sprawling estate was a sight to behold. Every mansion built for the wealthy is unique. Some were temporary rental spots, while others got made recently or have stood for generations. This property, The Estate of Commerce, was bought from a real estate broker six years ago and renovated. Now the white-washed walls and decor screamed manly decadence. The fountain with a businessman reading at his desk told me exactly the type of employer I had.

The lawyers offered to pick me up by helicopter, but I declined. The limo service with free food and self-cooling seats was enough for me. Plus, I wanted to make the news as Patrick’s new fitness instructor. Not a pretty woman escorted through the skies. The last thing I needed was a headline declaring me Patrick’s new love interest. Rumors were already flying without adding fuel to the fire.

My stylist picked out well co-ordinated outfits for my stay. They rarely steered me wrong, and I know the suit at the interview caught Patrick’s attention. I still had a travel bag with some of my personal choices, so I didn’t feel like a doll. My luggage included all my fitness gear and other necessities. I was told the rest of my needs would be provided for on site.

I was led to the study and noticed Patrick waiting inside. “Hi, I didn’t think you would be here. No immediate business to attend?”

“Welcome to my current residence,” Patrick ignored my question, “take a seat. We have something important to discuss.” The baritone in his voice made my heart sing. Everything about this man was hot, aside from his wet blanket personality. His brown hair was perfectly coifed, and navy blue suit looked fresh off the rack. Did he change his outfit when I arrived?

I sat down with my legs crossed. Today I wore a purple pantsuit with pointed heels. It was a new outfit that cost me thousands more than usual. But seeing what Patrick wore, it was the right choice. “I want to thank you for this wonderful work opportunity. I will ensure to give you my best.”

“That should go without saying. The reason you got hired is threefold. One, you have a great resume as a fitness instructor. Two, your current situation leaves you free to work with me exclusively, and three, you’re not my type. I mean that, exactly as I said. Did the lawyers explain the rules you agreed on in the contract?” Patrick rattled on.

I could feel the alpha male reeking from this man. He was the type who wanted everyone to know who was boss. I could handle that. But his higher than though attitude was less than desirable. Due to an upbringing as a wealthy heir, no doubt. “Yes, I understood what I signed up for. No dating, don’t sneak into your bed chambers, which are called bedrooms today. Eat healthy, wait for you to form full sentences, and don’t dress like a hobo.” It was impossible not to strike back at this man. Why can’t all annoying people have a neon sign?

“That’s a simplistic way of putting it. Then again, your type isn’t hired for their mastery of the English language.” Patrick continued flipping through something on a tablet.

I bit my tongue. Was this man trying to get me to snap? I hoped this wasn’t a test because I hated clients who played games. I recalled that Hannah woman called me crazy. I’d be out of my mind if I allowed anything to make me lose this job. I only had to hold out for ninety days. I got a healthy deposit, and payments came in thirty-day increments. A way to keep me in line or his usual method, I couldn’t tell. Either way, I had to tolerate this billionaire both for the money and to improve my reputation.

He looked up at me as if finally registering my arrival. The tablet now closed and pushed aside. Eyes traveled down my person, though he didn’t seem interested in my body this time. “You have a stylist?”

The question came out of nowhere. But it could be worse. Patrick could’ve forced me to recite something off his tablet to test my speaking skills. “I do, but my wardrobe has been well organized for my time here. If you’re worried that I can’t dress myself without assistance unless you need me to attend a special event, I’ll manage.”

“I have a team of five stylists on call. I also had them teach me everything they knew so I could dress for any occasion. Today, for example, they chose a seafoam suit with a beige tie to give me a less severe look. Ten minutes before your arrival, I switched to this navy one with a black tie.

That was the right call. Nothing would make Patrick look less hardcore businessman. I pitied the stylists for even trying. Imagining him in a seafoam colored outfit made me think of a human Spongebob. Perhaps I didn’t understand the vision, but he looked handsome and professional in the navy suit. My brain immediately tried to imagine my boss naked. Recalling the magazine shoot where he did that one photograph in swim trunks didn’t help.

“Am I boring you?” Patrick asked. His eyes bored into mine as if he saw the racy images in my head.

“Not at all, I’m riveted,” I sat up straight.

“I looked over the summation of the exercise routine you want me on,” Patrick said, “it’s satisfactory, but I’ve sent some notes by email. I have some exercise equipment you might have to familiarize yourself with. Aside from that, we’ll be ready to start tomorrow.”

“Is there anything else I need to know?” my hand went to the hair bun that was supposed to make me look more professional. The nervous energy that rose inside me wasn’t helping.

“Your hair looks better down,” Patrick said.

My hand pressed hard into my scalp. “I agree.” Without hesitation, I removed the pins, and my hair fell about my shoulders. Why I did this, I couldn’t quite explain. The pins got flung into my purse with a relish. Guess my stylist wasn’t right about everything.

Patrick’s eyes trailed down my body a few times. This time he drank me in completely. A small smile played on his lips. “The butler is waiting outside to help you get situated. Thank you for coming,” he dismissed me with a flash of his hand.

“Of course, Sir.” I walked out to see a gray-haired male ready to escort me.

“I’m here to take you to your quarters, Miss Vanessa,” the butler said, and I followed him.

********

The first week at the mansion went with little incident. Patrick was strict, as expected. Except that he allowed me to leave the residence almost daily. Insisting I get the lay of the land and learn about the area. He never went with me, and I was always picked up by an unmarked car with a member of his security team inside. I either left the estate with one of his personal chauffeurs or trusted car service. I preferred the latter because the chauffeurs always gave me dirty looks. One of them blatantly listened to a podcast calling me a hussy without caring I was in the car.

The tabloids labeled me as going after a new target. Reputable papers questioned my hiring but were waiting to make a judgment. At least that’s what they claimed while making backhanded compliments about Patrick being single and less likely to fall for temptation. Sure, that’s an essential part of my fitness instructor resume. That cancer should’ve left those innocent teens alone and turned Eustace into an obituary. At least the kids were still recovering in Sweden. I prayed they stayed away from this circus for as long as possible.

Patrick seemed to have his desires. Women popped in daily of various races and body sizes. Some dressed like his secretary, others like they were going out on dates. None acted like members of staff who were always formal and friendly indoors. They all treated anyone that wasn’t Patrick like furniture. The air of high society reeked off them.

I did my best to stay focused on keeping Patrick fit and happy. My only priority was maintaining this job without falling into another scandal. My client was a quick study and didn’t need long prep or instruction to exercises familiar or new. I got as much workout practicing with him as he did following my fitness routine. Perhaps being strict wasn’t the worst thing when dealing with fitness.

Having a hot boss was tough enough. I didn’t need to poke into his personal life or taste. Though I felt a pang over realizing, perhaps, I wasn’t his type after all—a silly thought to have while my career was on the line.

Chapter Four - Patrick

“Liar! You can’t dump me,” the enraged blonde flung another priceless item at me. Seven and counting now. The price of the turquoise elephant from India could feed a developing country for months. It was a gift, but that didn’t discount the fact that it was priceless.

“Ophelia, I’m sorry, but things aren’t working out. Throwing a tantrum will not ease our parting,” I told her, “security is coming, and if you’re not calm, they will pull you out the back. I will not have your ranting make it into the papers and online trash websites.”

I thought Vanessa was who I had to watch out for. But compared to my now ex-girlfriend, my new fitness instructor was a saint. Who knew a tiny woman like Ophelia could carry this much rage? I want to shake the anger out of her. But the last time I reached out, she bit at me. How could she be the daughter of a wealthy fashion dynasty and behave like a sewer rat? I’m supposed to be a fearless male, and this woman had me on the ropes.

“Who reads the paper anymore, you relic?” Ophelia screamed, “I’m supposed to be the next Mrs. Collins, I did everything right, and you’re not throwing me away over nothing. We connected. I know you were feeling everything I felt. There were only two days left of the two weeks. I know you were about to propose. You gave the signs. I will not lose this!”

My face reddened at the accusation. The use of paper was still widespread. The internet didn’t destroy physical media overnight. Perhaps twenty-three was too young for me to think a woman was ready to commit. Though Ophelia kept yelling, she was more than willing to settle down. With that attitude, it would have to be with a grizzly bear. I’m strong-willed, not stupid. People who blow up like this over smaller matters can be dangerous when serious situations come to fruition. I’ve seen enough true crime shows to know that.

I knew having open relationships could be difficult for some women. But I made everything clear. I date and have sex. A few women get chosen to date me for two weeks to see if we are a match for something more. If yes, we go forward and date exclusively until I decide if I want to propose. If not, we will never see each other again. Everyone was fine with that deal; even women dumped on the final day. Ophelia wasn’t ready for a negative outcome, and now I’m faced with a woman who looked ready to commit murder.

“It’s not fair,” Ophelia raged, “you told me three days ago that you were thinking of dating exclusively. That you wanted to see where things went when we were exclusive. I thought I was dreaming, and now you want to take it all back. Banish me like nothing happened. I am Ophelia Devonte. Patrick, you are not getting away with this.”

“You signed The Two Week Pact NDA, talk, and I’ll crush you in court,” I stated, “I have a right to end any relationship that I see fit. You need to calm down and leave. After this display, I was right to drop you. Why would I want to be with someone who threatens me this way? And those gifts you broke are costly. Your family will be distraught if I demand compensation.”

“I don’t care about my stupid family,” Ophelia said, “I became a criminal attorney to escape the fashion life and live in the real world. Sure most of my clients have money, but I take on poorer clients and do a few pro bono.”

“Ophelia, your definition of poor is someone who can’t buy an island on sight,” I noted, “none of your clients are poor. Some of my clients have less money than the people you do pro bono for. So cut the lies and accept that we were never a good match.”

Ophelia screamed and reached for another priceless item. But a hand stopped her. Brian and four other members of security arrived. I was relieved because I would have to hold her down and use zip ties in a few more minutes. I didn’t want to do that to anyone, much less an ex. “So he sent for you, the giant oaf? Do you know what your boss has done?”

“Unless he’s touched you inappropriately, that’s not my problem. Sir, how do you want me to handle this one?” Brian held her hand firmly, “Take her outside quietly or call the authorities.”

“The authorities would be a bit extreme?” a voice said, “shoot, sorry.”

My eyes zoomed in on the corner door. Sticking their head in like a paparazzi spy was my fitness instructor. Life couldn’t be this cruel. Bad enough, I must deal with a girlfriend going overboard in my mansion. Now it was witnessed by the newest member of staff.

“Ma’am, what are you doing here?” Brian demanded.

“I heard a noise and thought there might be a break-in,” Vanessa whispered, “how was I supposed to know it was a high-class woman going berzerk in the main hall? I would have assumed Patrick could handle himself with one angry lady. Guess I was wrong.”

“Are you his new squeeze?” Ophelia demanded.

Vanessa snorted so loud I nearly died on the spot. “Me? Trust me, honey. I’m not sure that he wants anyone right now. Count your lucky stars, apologize, and go home. There’s other fish in the sea.”

“You think so?” Ophelia sniffled, “I’ll soon be twenty-four. My mother says the clock is ticking.”

“Honey, you’re mother’s mind is stuck in the 1800s. You have plenty of time,” Vanessa said, “Brian will take you outside nicely if you apologize.”

“That’s not for you to say,” Brian responded.

“I’m calm,” Ophelia took a deep breath, “I’m very sorry. Can I hug you before I leave, Patrick? So you know that we can still be friends?”

“Sir, that’s not a good idea,” Brian shook his head.

I stepped forward and shook her hand. “I knew you would see things my way and move on.”

“I see something alright,” Ophelia’s hand became a tight grip, “I see a two-timing liar who can get away with anything,” she said, then immediately kneed me in the balls, “Go to hell.”

Two more security personnel ran forward to grab Ophelia’s legs as she was escorted out by force. She screamed at a level that would scare Jesus.

I did my best not to wince from the attack. Ophelia had become so close to being my chosen one. I wasn’t deep in love but had deep feelings for her. She said all the right things and knew how to carry herself. I thought I found the closest I could to a soulmate. Then I got the news that she lied on her application. The Devonte’s covered up a nasty skirmish she had in university. I couldn’t trust my heart or life to a woman willing to choke her roommate over an ex-boyfriend. Ophelia’s parents covered everything up, but my people performed thorough background checks. Thankfully, Hannah went even deeper after Ophelia passed the first one. Nothing gets past my red-haired PR angel, and I’m grateful.

“Guess I dodged a bullet there,” I mumbled, still waiting for the pain to subside,

“Did she hit you that hard, Patrick?” Vanessa asked, and I turned to glare.

“What do you want, Vanessa?” I still couldn’t believe she witnessed everything. Vanessa could ruin my reputation with one phone call. Getting beat up over a secret dating contract wasn’t the major headline that any businessman needed. It sounded like the early draft of a new Fifty Shades novel.

“Is it true that you have a two-week contract with women?” Vanessa smirked, “what’s that about?” The amused look on her face burned my pride more than anything. “Are you running some kind of weird sex cult?”

“No. I’m not a cult leader, and what happened tonight is none of your business,” I struggled to save face.

“I’m not telling anyone if that’s what’s worrying you,” Vanessa said, “I would never air my client’s dirty laundry.”

“Please return to your quarters,” I said. Why couldn’t Ophelia lose her mind in the bedroom? That’s where we were before she ran out screaming that I had to be punking her. That Devonte family was getting an angry call and a huge bill.

“Goodnight, I guess,” Vanessa sighed, “Ophelia might have lost it, but it seems you gave her the wrong impression first,” she said and walked away.

“I’m still your boss,” I said, and Vanessa only gave a shoulder shrug and kept walking. What kind of blowhard response was that? If I weren’t a billionaire client, my fitness instructor would probably cut her losses and leave this madhouse. A beautiful woman like her deserved better than how I acted. “I must be the biggest idiot on Earth tonight.”

Chapter Five

I walked around the opulent mansion, my footsteps echoing in the vast hallway. The place's grandeur overwhelmed almost me on my initial arrival. But it also heightened my skepticism.

Could someone used to such luxuries live a regular life among the common folk? Can men like Patrick see us as equals and not lesser beings? I found him attractive, without a doubt. But who wants to fantasize about a man who saw them as a second-class citizen?

The walls were lined with expensive artwork, and the air was scented with the fragrance of luxury. It was clear that Patrick spared no expense regarding his surroundings. Yet the way that Ophelia was treated bothered me. She had no right to attack Patrick physically. But the little I heard told me the young woman was raging over a broken heart. I saw the billionaire quickly dismiss, even threatening to charge the family for damaged items he could’ve easily replaced. I looked them up, and they were millionaires, but their wealth was a drop in the bucket compared to Collin’s vast fortune.

But my mind couldn't shake off the memory of him being so cold with Ophelia. Walking through the mansion, I recalled witnessing women coming and going from the building. The women spoke down to staff as if they were less than others, sending a chill down my spine. Not once did Patrick question their behavior. “How can I trust him?” I whispered to myself.

I was born a regular person. I never thought that someone was less than me for not having wealth. Sure, I saw folks who were mean to the homeless. But they weren’t controlling their actions with a strange contract. Why did Patrick need a two-week dating contract? A regular NDA made sense with all his riches and reputation. But I couldn’t wrap my mind about women giving a two week dating period before they got chucked into the void.

It could be a matchmaking service. Billionaires can afford things like that. If so, this one belonged to a reality show, not the real world. I could imagine Patrick on a stage handing out pens and telling women they survived another week under contract. The eliminated contestants would have their pens stomped by Brian. My imagination was too wild.

A billionaire like Patrick, surrounded by wealth and power, could easily manipulate anyone for his gain. I had seen it happen in Hollywood, where power and money corrupted even the purest hearts. I already had a scandal thanks to a top-level accountant from that world. The last thing I needed was another misfire in the business world. I promised Amy and myself to do better. Stay professional with this client, clear my reputation, and get paid.

I cricked my neck and checked my watch. Our latest appointment was in half an hour. I better prepare and see if I can follow my logical brain and leave any horny thoughts behind. Only my reputation and entire way of life were at stake—nothing to lose sleep over.

***********

Deciding to take matters into my own hands, I told myself to focus on Patrick's exercise routine. On our next appointment, I promised to be a consummate professional. No unnecessary conversations, ogling his handsome frame, or thinking about anything unrelated to fitness. I had to stay on guard so as not to fall into temptation. He didn’t want an ordinary woman. I had no interest in being anyone’s special plaything.

“Sorry about last night,” Patrick greeted me. He wore his usual grey exercise gear and white headband. I chose my red exercise from my personal items bag. It was my stay away I’m moody attire that I used when clients rubbed me the wrong way. The bright red was supposed to drive folks back and keep them from initiating conversation.

“I’m fine. Let’s get started,” I stated, barely taking in Patrick’s words. I started the warming up exercises. Soon we moved to the more intense workouts, and I did my best to avoid any form of casual banter. A line had to be established if I wanted this job to go smoothly.

“I heard there’s going to be rain later,” Patrick said, “if you plan to go out, you better bring an umbrella. Wouldn’t want you getting soaked and catching a chill.”

“Your leg thrusts are weaker than normal,” I told him, “let’s pick up the pace and forget about the weather and playing around outside.”

“Of course, my apologies,” Patrick said and moved faster. There’s no doubt he stayed dedicated to being fit and healthy.

If I couldn't trust his character, at least I could admire his physique. Sweat glistened on his brow as he pushed himself through an intense workout, his muscles rippling with each movement. I shook my head and reminded myself to stop daydreaming.

He mirrored my actions, his body following my lead. I tried to ignore the thoughts swirling in my mind. I told myself that this was just a temporary situation. I’m a fitness instructor, and he’s a billionaire. Our worlds were too different to intersect. I’m from a borderline middle-class family. My parents worked hard to give me the best education, and in return, I stayed employed in a well-paying job to help them as they did for me.

“Have I done anything to offend you?” Patrick asked as the fitness regimen for today neared its end. He performed the cooling down exercises with ease. “You’ve been quiet today, and that’s unusual.”

“Guess exercising can take up my concentration sometimes,” I responded. I tilted my body away to avoid further conversation. I reminded myself of everything that was at stake. Patrick would forget me in a day once my work contract ended. Better to establish boundaries now and protect myself from getting into any trouble.

I would be free and clear after a few more months of working at his mansion. Patrick was undeniably handsome, with his chiseled jawline and piercing blue eyes. But I couldn't let his beauty blind me to his true identity. “I’m going to shower, then head out to meet a friend. That shouldn’t be an issue. You don’t need me for anything else today?”

“No, you’ve done plenty,” Patrick said in a small voice.

I couldn’t tell if he was winded or disappointed. Either way, it was best not to turn around. One look into his sweet eyes, and I might crack. “That’s a wrap.”

Patrick stormed off without saying anything. He had a huge frown on his face. Was the routine not to his liking? I had no idea what could make him look that unhappy. It couldn’t be that I didn’t engage in a long conversation. No, that’s silly. He doesn’t care if I chat things up.

Deep down, I knew my heart deserved better than a man who acted with such disregard for others. I deserved someone who treated people with kindness and respect, regardless of their station in life. And if Patrick couldn't offer me that, it was best to go our separate ways. Ophelia wasn’t my friend, but she was a fellow woman. If Patrick could randomly discard her like that. Who knew what else he was capable of doing?

My muscles ached from the exertion. I took a moment to gather myself. There was no other way but forward. I would stay focused on my work, keep my walls up, and prevent myself from falling into the trap of his charm. Intent

Patrick may be a billionaire, but beneath the surface, he was another wealthy businessman who believed money could buy anything, even love. The contract situation was weird to me, and I wanted no part. Who knew what those women were allowed to do? I couldn’t even date, and I was under a work contract. I wished anyone else trying to date Patrick good luck.

But I knew better. Love couldn't be bought or manipulated. Knowing Patrick could be a scumbag like any other man was disappointing and comforting. Because it made me realize keeping my distance is my best course of action. Now I didn’t have to worry about falling for him unawares. He had dirty laundry like any other big shot. Billionaires like him were better at hiding it and hiring people who kept his secrets.

My mind flashed back to how Brian picked up Ophelia like a tiny sack of potatoes. She didn’t stand a chance once security entered the room. Who knew what else happened and Patrick’s men made go away? Brian did protect Patrick from a woman behaving in an unstable manner. But she was still a human being.

“Why can’t I think about TV shows and delicious cupcakes,” I whined, heading for the showers. Living with a sexy billionaire was more stressful than I ever imagined. I had to stay on course. Once this job was complete, I never had to see Patrick again. A pang in my chest had me sighing. Why was doing the right thing so complicated?

End Excerpt

It's not easy sucking up the losses of being scammed out of being paid. But posting publicly gives me some relief and protection. Along with the emails and messages online, proving I did the work.

#writers of tumblr #writers life #freelance writing #contemporary romance #scam alert

0 notes