Page 3

CHAPTER THREE

ASH

B ack in New York, I strode through the halls of Langley Enterprises Headquarters, Aria hustling to keep up with me.

“At nine a.m., you’ve got a meeting with James Reynolds from Skyline Ventures,” Aria began. “He’s keen to discuss potential investment opportunities.” Her voice was crisp as she scrolled through my agenda on her tablet.

I sighed. “James Reynolds—I think I called him John last time.”

Aria ignored the comment. “Then, at ten thirty, there’s a conference call with Sarah Chen from BrightTech Solutions about our partnership progress,” she continued. I nodded along. “After that, a lunch meeting with Emily Hayes from Savoré Restaurant Group at noon to finalize details for next month’s charity gala.”

Grimacing, I said, “Can you handle that one, Ari? Tell her I can’t make it.”

She shook her head firmly. “She requested you specifically, and your father said you need to give final approval if he’s not here.”

“Fine. I need a cigarette,” I muttered, glancing around for a balcony.

“You don’t have time for that,” she scolded. “Oh, and don’t forget, your two p.m. is with Thomas Harrison from Quantum Innovations to go over the latest updates.” Her heels clicked as she matched my pace.

“And we can’t schedule a cigarette break somewhere in there?” I asked, peering at her tablet.

“No. You’ve also got a networking event at The Manhattan Club at six p.m., hosted by the Elite Business Forum. I’ve arranged for the car to pick you up,” she finished as we reached my office door. She held it open. “Your father is on the line, and you have five minutes before we need to leave. No cigarette breaks,” she added pointedly.

“Can I smoke in here?” I asked, already knowing the answer.

She pointed to the no-smoking sign on the wall. Figures.

I settled into my chair and pressed the button to take the call. “Daddy dearest,” I greeted, hearing his sigh on the other end.

“Sebastian, I’ve been reviewing the latest projections,” Teddy began, his tone measured. “I know you’re excited about this, but I have concerns.”

Of course he did. Felt like a broken record—every step forward met with his resistance. Ever the traditionalist.

Leaning back, I gazed at the ceiling. “I understand your reservations, but this investment is a significant opportunity to keep us ahead in the market.”

He sighed again. “I’m not disputing the importance of innovation, Sebastian. But we can’t lose sight of our core values. Our legacy is built on stability and reliability, not risky ventures into uncharted territory.”

“I get it, truly. But embracing change is essential for our success. It might be unconventional, but it could redefine us and secure our leadership. Give it a chance, Dad. It’s working—we’ve already seen a thirty percent revenue increase compared to last quarter.”

“I don’t doubt your intentions,” he replied, his tone edging into annoyance. “But consider the implications of deviating. We have responsibilities—to our shareholders, our employees, our legacy.”

“I understand, and I’ll do everything to ensure success. But sometimes, taking calculated risks is necessary for growth. You gave me the ship; let me steer.”

“You’re letting ambition cloud your judgment, Sebastian. I won’t step down if you continue taking unnecessary risks.” His voice hardened, testing my patience.

“With all due respect—” I began.

“With all due respect,” he cut me off. “I’m speaking from experience. Your instincts aren’t always reliable. Need I remind you about your previous investments?”

I lost it.

“That was fucking years ago! I’m not green anymore, Dad. I can manage the damn company just fine,”I snapped.

Ice-cold silence drenched us both.

I closed my eyes.

Fucking idiot .

Still, he was unfazed. “Curious, considering you still sound like your teenage self. Do you think I don’t handle the fallout from your behavior? Fiddling with twenty-something men, pictures splashed across tabloids. Is that how you run a respectable business? The times I’ve had to reassure shareholders that you’re responsible—even when you don’t act like it. Reevaluate the budget for your little project. I won’t watch you shred our reputation.” With that, he hung up.

Damn it.

I rubbed a hand over my face.

Couldn’t keep my mouth shut.

Aria knocked and peeked in. “All done?”

I nodded, standing up. “Ari, I need a favor.”

She looked up attentively.

“Talk to the tabloids. Offer them more for any pictures of me—have them sent to me before publishing. Anything about my personal life, I want off the radar.”

She nodded, curiosity evident. I’d always embraced a “do whatever you want” attitude. Seems I needed to be more careful.

Glancing at my phone, I thought about Ethan.

I’d have to be a hell of a lot more discreet about that.

* * *

Less than a week had passed since I’d last seen Ethan. We still texted, and he’d reply, but keeping a conversation going was tough. Every time I edged into flirting, he’d either stop responding or send one-word replies. Meeting him in person seemed the only way forward.

Henry, ever helpful, set up a lunch with Oliver and Charlotte, inviting Ethan along. He didn’t mention I was coming.

As I approached the table, they all looked up, surprised.

“Don’t look so shocked. Last I checked, we’re still brothers,” I told Oliver as a server added a place setting.

“What are you doing here? I thought you were in Madrid this week,” Oliver said.

“Next week. Flying out Tuesday.” I bent to kiss Charlotte’s cheek, then turned to Ethan. His blue eyes met mine, a small smile playing on his lips. I leaned into him. He didn’t flinch this time.

“Even lovelier to see you,” I whispered, lingering before taking my seat.

Ethan looked flustered but tried his best to hide it—lips pressed tight, hand near his face.

“Just floored you’re here,” Henry said, feigning shock. He shot Ethan a look, but Ethan shook his head, avoiding eye contact. A little uncomfortable jolt of something went through me as I witnessed the exchange.

“It’s a welcome surprise,” Charlotte chimed in. “We were talking about going to the Hamptons next month. Oli said your dad and Vivian could make it. A family weekend before the wedding.”

“Sounds great, Charlie. Let me know the dates, and I’ll try to be there,” I replied. A weekend with Ethan sounded like the best idea.

The server brought me a whiskey, and we ordered. I kept stealing glances at Ethan, but he was seated too far away for casual chat. I needed to get away from the lovebirds.

Ethan was electric when prodded.

That car ride lingered—his subtle smiles, nervous bravado, sharp wit. It made him incredibly appealing. He could’ve been just a pretty face with a great body, but he was so much more. I should’ve moved on by now and found someone else, but seeing him reminded me how much I wanted him.

I was dying to fuck him.

After we ate, I stepped outside—per Oliver’s request—for a cigarette. Ethan joined once more and I smiled as he sat across from me, vape in hand.

He took a drag, looking away. His hair was messier than usual.

“Just come from the gym?”

He nodded. “How can you tell?” A curious smile played on his lips.

“Your hair,” I noted. He ran a hand through it, self-conscious. “Looks good. Figured you showered away from home—it’s not styled like usual.”

He blinked.

“I’m observant,” I explained.

“I’ve noticed.”

“We share that trait.”

He looked even more surprised. “How could you possibly know that?”

“The way you look at things, at people. Focused. You pause before you talk too,” I told him.

“You’re better at it than me,” he admitted.

“I’ve got a few years on you,” I teased.

He hesitated, as if debating whether to speak. Finally, he asked, “How can you tell when I’m nervous?”

I grinned. “You have a tell.”

“What is it?” he asked, tilting his head slightly—unintentionally endearing.

“I’m not giving that away,” I said, leaning forward, taking a slow drag.

“Why not?” he protested.

“I like having that over you. Maybe you can offer something in return,” I suggested.

His smile faded a bit. Perhaps I’d pushed too far.

“Like what?” he challenged, surprising me. I’d expected him to back off.

“Oh, I’m sure you’ll think of something,” I replied casually.

“I thought you liked calling the shots,” he teased, taking another drag.

My heart skipped—a mix of surprise and delight. He’d nailed it.

I licked my lips, and his eyes followed the motion. “I’ll tell you what. I’ll give it up if you play my game.”

His face clouded, puzzled. “What game?” He probably didn’t mean to do it, but he lowered his voice too. With its natural huskiness, it sounded so alluring.

I smiled. “You’re smart, Ethan. I’m sure you’ve figured it out.”

A flush crept up his cheeks as realization set in. “I’ve told you, I’m not into men,” he said quickly.

“That’s fine. You don’t have to be into men,” I replied. He seemed confused. “Just into me,” I added with a smirk, leaning back.

He glanced away, overwhelmed. Was that too much? I studied his face for signs of acceptance or refusal. He remained neutral. I counted the seconds. The longer he hesitated, the more excitement built. He wasn’t saying no—just needed a nudge.

I was about to speak when the door creaked open, and Ethan practically jumped in his seat.

Henry strolled out, oblivious. “Hand that over,” he said, reaching for Ethan’s vape.

“I’ve already gotten you three of these,” Ethan replied, voice slightly unsteady. He cleared his throat.

Henry shrugged. “Easier to use yours. You always have it, and I keep losing mine.”

I leaned back, taking a deep breath.

“Keep it,” Ethan said abruptly, standing up. He cast a quick glance my way before heading back inside without a word. Damn it.

I shot Henry a glare.

“What? Did I interrupt something?” he asked too innocently.

“Yes. You did,” I snapped.

“Good,” Henry retorted, expression serious. “Look, you know I’m usually on board with whatever you’re playing at, but...” He hesitated.

I waved at him to go on.

“Dad called me, Ash.”

Of course he did. “And?”

“And you have to be more discreet than this. Especially with Ethan. Oli is marrying his sister. It’s too public. Dad would kill you if it got out. This isn’t like your other bullshit,” he told me.

I felt the sting of his words, but knew he was right. “Thought you were rooting for me.”

“I am. I want you to win your prize. But you can’t keep pulling stunts like this out in the open, especially with Oli noticing,” he advised.

I sighed, lighting another cigarette. He was annoyingly right. Glancing inside, I watched Ethan chatting with his sister, his leg bouncing nervously.

Oliver eyed us, expression unreadable. I knew Oli could see right through me. They both could.

“Fuck,” I breathed.

Henry relaxed, leaning back on the chair. “You can still have him, Ash. Just keep it private,” he insisted.

I shook my head. “I should drop it. Dad’s already pissed. Ethan might be the last straw. Maybe in a couple of years.”

“Yeah, or four or five.”

I chuckled despite myself. Looking at Ethan, frustration gnawed at me. “I was so close.”

“Why don’t you come by the club tonight? Fuck some other college guy instead?” Henry suggested.

I huffed a laugh. “It’s not an age kink, you know. I’d prefer if he were older. I want him, and I think he was about to give in. Makes it harder,” I explained.

“Yeah, but he’s too young, Ash. You’re almost twice his age. Have you stopped to think about that?”

I shrugged. “What’s the youngest you’ve gone?”

He thought it over, taking a drag. “Not much—you know, probably three years younger? I’m not into that. You know why. It’s not like I have a type, but it’s usually the…” He waved vaguely.

“Physical attributes?” I offered. “Yeah, I know,” I said, and Henry chuckled again. “How would you feel backing off from Marisa just as you were about to win her over?”

He grimaced. “Horrible. It’s Tara now, by the way. But yeah, it’d suck. That’s why I’m offering a sympathy fuck. It’ll make you feel better.”

“Thanks, little brother,” I said appreciatively.

“Anytime,” he said, looking toward the table. “Do you think this is why Oli never wants to take us anywhere?”

I laughed loudly. Henry laughed along, lifting his hand to order us another round.

Ethan was glancing our way, a hint of a smile.

Damn it.

We stayed outside, keeping our distance the rest of the time. When we left, I barely looked at Ethan, avoiding a direct goodbye. After kissing Charlotte’s cheek, I gave a general wave to the table. The confusion in his eyes didn’t escape me.

I hated it.

* * *

On Saturday morning, I sat at my computer, sipping coffee and sharing breakfast with my overnight guest. I’d taken Henry’s offer to hit his club last night and had called up a friend who was always game for that sort of thing. Chris was blond, twenty-five, and enjoyed being bossed around—exactly what I needed to unload my frustrations.

As Chris chatted away, I half listened while scrolling through emails. He was attractive but too talkative, never quite grasping when it was time to leave. My phone vibrated. Expecting a message from Aria or something work-related, I glanced at it.

My eyebrows shot up in surprise.

Ethan Bennett

are you still in town?

Well, fuck me. And here I was, trying to be good. This was the first time Ethan had ever reached out to me first. I smiled to myself, looking it over.

I really shouldn’t.

Me

have you been missing me darling?

Shaking my head at myself, I placed the phone face down. It was like I couldn’t control myself around him.

“Who are you texting?” Chris asked in a singsong voice. I looked up and found him grinning. “You’ve got your game face on.”

I narrowed my eyes. “Fuck off.”

His laughter echoed through the space.

The phone vibrated again. I resisted the urge to check it.

Chris smirked. “Is he from DC? That explains why you were so rough yesterday.” Absentmindedly, he rubbed his wrist, which looked a bit red.

“Sorry. Did I hurt you?” I asked, frowning. I knew I’d been too forceful—I couldn’t get Ethan out of my head the whole time.

Chris smiled. “No, babe. You know I like that. It’s a good kind of sore. Thanks for breakfast.” He shot my phone a quick glance. “I’ll leave you to it.”

“See you, babe ,” I teased.

Chris chuckled, sticking his tongue out. He leaned in to kiss my cheek before leaving. Once I heard the door close, I turned my phone over.

Ethan Bennett

you said you were leaving next week

but you haven’t been around

I guess you’re busy with work

I smiled. He missed me—or at least was curious about my absence. This only made things harder. If Ethan started seeking me out, I’d find it impossible to resist him.

Me

you did miss me

I’ve been swamped with work

have to head in soon

Ethan Bennett

on a saturday?

Me

hate to break it to you but owning a business means working around the clock

Ethan Bennett

or maybe you just add work to your list of addictions

I chuckled.

Me

perhaps

why did you want to know if I was still in town?

I considered asking if he planned to invite me out but held back. No need to add fuel to the fire. I watched as the typing indicator appeared and disappeared several times before his message came through.

Ethan Bennett

I don’t know

I don’t even know why I’m texting you right now

I sat up in my chair, attentive.

Fuck.

Ethan Bennett

I know you probably don’t care

but I thought you were mad at me or something

Me

I’m not mad at you

I couldn’t think of anything else to say. His sudden honesty caught me off guard.

After a moment, his reply came.

Ethan Bennett

sorry for bothering you

I’ll let you get back to work

I shook my head and decided to call him. It rang a couple of times before he answered.

“You’re not bothering me,” I said.

His breathing came through on the other end. I wished I could see his face and read his expressions.

Lowering my voice, I asked, “Do you want to see me, darling?”

“No,” he finally replied, his voice a bit strained.

I chuckled softly. “It’s okay if you do. I won’t tell,” I said, keeping my voice in that deep, rumbly register.

He exhaled loudly, clicking his tongue. “I don’t get it.”

“What don’t you get?”

“You.”

A soft huff of laughter escaped past my lips. “I think I’ve been pretty straightforward,” I replied.

“So why did you stop?”

I closed my eyes. He was too fucking perfect. Ethan was sharp; he’d noticed something was off, even if it took him days to confront me about it. It only made him all the more appealing.

“Did I stop?”

“I don’t want to keep talking to you. Can we hang up?”

“Don’t hang up. Why don’t you want to talk anymore?” I pressed.

“Because talking to you is really fucking confusing,” he admitted.

I could almost picture him clenching his jaw, struggling to get the words out. That word— confusing —was music to my ears. It was exactly what I’d aimed for.

“Then let’s meet.”

“No, that’s worse,” he protested. “Let’s just hang up, Sebastian. Let me hang up.”

“You don’t have to be embarrassed. I promise, I won’t tell anyone,” I assured him.

“I’m not embarrassed,” he snapped defensively.

“Ethan, come on,” I coaxed.

He huffed—a sound so endearing it made me grin.

“Fine. Yes, I want to see you,” he confessed. I laughed softly. “Could you stop laughing at me?”

“I’m not laughing at you, my darling. I’m just happy you said it. I want to see you too.”

He exhaled loudly again.

“I can come pick you up,” I offered.

“I thought you had to work,” he said petulantly.

“Fuck work.”

This time, he chuckled, and it warmed me.

“I have a match later. I could meet you after two.”

“Perfect. Let me know where, and I’ll come get you.”

“Okay,” he said softly. “But Sebastian, I’m not...” He trailed off, taking a deep breath. “I’m not sure what...”

“Ethan,” I interjected gently. He fell silent. “I’m just going to pick you up, and we’ll talk. Nothing more.”

“Yeah, okay,” he agreed. “Talk to you later.”

“I’ll be looking forward to it,” I said before ending the call.

As I leaned back in my chair, running a hand through my hair, my resolve crumbled.

And to think, I might be getting my hands on him in a few hours. I laughed out loud. Now I just needed to figure out how the hell to make this work without anybody finding out.

The next logical step was to call Henry.

* * *

I had a plan.

Henry would send a car to pick up Ethan, bringing him to a restaurant where I’d wait in a private room. I’d arrive ahead of time, and no one would suspect a thing. Ethan didn’t need to know Henry was involved. He’d feel comfortable in a public setting, even if we were alone.

I had one last meeting to attend, giving myself an hour before heading out. I couldn’t wait. I kept checking my phone, hoping he’d finish early. Fifteen minutes before our scheduled time, my phone buzzed. Eagerly, I looked at the message.

Ethan Bennett

for Charlotte’s sake I’d like to pretend we’ve never met

next time you see me don’t act like we’re closer than we are don’t ask me to be alone with you and don’t call me darling

I won’t be rude just leave me alone

I stared at the screen, reading the message three times to make sure I wasn’t misunderstanding. What the hell just happened?

Ethan Bennett

I know this is probably meaningless to you but I’d appreciate it if you’d respect my space and not call me

I won’t answer anyway so don’t waste your time

Me

Ethan what’s going on?

He re-sent the last text.

Ethan Bennett

I won’t answer anyway so don’t waste your time

I blinked at my phone, baffled. Looking around my office, I hoped for some sudden insight.

Me

did something happen?

No response. He didn’t even resend the message this time.

I excused myself from the meeting and tried calling him twice. True to his word, he didn’t pick up.

“Sebastian.” Aria approached, a distressed look on her face.

“What?”

She sighed. “You know, right? Are you mad at me? I swear I bought off all the tabloids. It was a private video that went viral. I’ve already tried to have it taken down, reported it for inappropriate content,” she rambled.

I stared at her, confused. “What the fuck are you talking about?”

“The video,” she said, exasperated.

Seeing my blank expression, she pulled out her phone and showed me. The clip started with a couple of girls smiling in a nightclub, then zoomed in on the background—me, kissing Chris against a wall. One hand gripping his neck, keeping him close. The camera zoomed back out to the girls squealing, then replayed. A solid thirty seconds of us making out. Not good.

I looked at Aria.

She shrugged.

“I wasn’t upset about this, but it certainly makes matters worse.”

My phone vibrated. Hoping it was Ethan, I answered—it was Henry instead.

“Did he get back to you? Where should I send the car for your boy toy?”

“He canceled. He’s furious with me, told me not to call him again. I have no idea why.”

“That sucks, Ash. So close too. Oh hey, do you think it’s because of that video of you choking Chris?”

“I wasn’t fucking choking him,” I argued.

“Sure looks like you were,” Aria chimed in. I shot her a glare. “He seemed super into it, though,” she added with a thumbs-up.

“That can’t be the reason,” I told Henry.

He chuckled. “You think it’s a coincidence that a video of you making out with some guy goes viral, and now Ethan doesn’t want to see you?”

“We barely know each other. He said he wants to pretend we haven’t met. Why would he care about me kissing someone else?” I argued, stepping away from Aria.

“This is fucking priceless, Ash. Did you expect a mature reaction from your nineteen-year-old boy toy?”

“Fuck off,” I snapped, though I knew he might be right. “He wouldn’t react like that over a kiss.”

“In Ethan’s defense, it looked like you were devouring Chris. No one’s doubting what happened after.”

“This is ridiculous,” I muttered.

“What’s ridiculous is you’re surprised by his reaction. If you wanted someone sensible, maybe this wasn’t the best choice,” he pointed out.

I sighed, refusing to believe this was it.

“I’ll call you later,” I said, hanging up.

Opening my chat with Ethan, I typed:

Me

are you upset about the video?

please answer so we can talk

No response.

Me

Ethan answer your fucking phone.

I tried calling again.

Straight to voicemail.

“For fuck’s sake,” I growled.

A few people nearby glanced over, startled.

I needed a fucking cigarette.