Ethan and Isabella checked into the luxurious hotel. As they parted ways to freshen up, the tension lingered. Later, Ethan knocked on her door. Dinner reservations are at 8, he said.
She opened the door, stunning in black dress. His breath caught. You look…amazing, he said. Thank you, she whispered.
Downstairs, the restaurant bustled with life. Over dinner, their conversation flowed easier. Ethan shared stories about his childhood.
Isabella laughed, her guard dropping. As night wore on, Ethan walked Isabella back to the hotel. The cool air filled the space between them. Ethan slowed his pace. Isabella? She turned, her eyes met his. For a moment, time stood still. Ethan hand brushed hers. A spark
Isabella pulled away. Ethan no, she whispered. Ethan's face twisted in confusion. What is the problem Isabella? You are in a relationship Ethan, she reminded him. That doesn't matter, he said. Isabella laughter was bitter.
Doesn't matter? You are committed to Sophia. He stepped closer. I care about you, Isabella. Her eyes flashed.
You don't care about me. You just want more. You are bored with Sophia and I am the excitement you are craving. His face twisted. That is not true, he protested. Her voice rose.
You are chasing me because I am the one thing you can't have. But I won't be your distraction, Ethan. I deserve better than to be you fuck mate
The words hung in the air. Ethan eyes narrowed. Is that what you really think? He asked.
Yes, she replied avoiding his piercing gaze. Ethan jaw clenched. I need time to think, he said. Take all the time you need, Ethan. With that she walked away. Leaving him alone
Days passed, Ethan and Isabella maintained a professional distance. One evening, at a networking event, Isabella smiled warmly at a stranger.
Ethan gaze locked onto them. The man's charming laughter. Isabella radiant smile. His jaw clenched. Who was this guy?
As the night wore on, Ethan found himself drawn to their conversation. The stranger name was Alexander. Successful, charming, and clearly interested in Isabella. Ethan's unease grew.
Alexander's hand brushed Isabella. Ethan's eyes narrowed. He couldn't take it. Excusing himself he strode over.
Isabella, may I have a word? He asked, his tone light. Alexander, excuse me, she said and followed him. as they stepped aside, Ethan voice lowered. What's going on here? He demanded. Just making connection, Ethan. His eyes burned.
With him? Isabella gaze met his. Yes, why do you care? His face twisted. I don't he lied. Don't what? Don't want you to get hurt.
Alexander is a good guy, Ethan. Unlike some people. The dig struck home. Ethan eyes flashed. They went back in and she continued her conversation with Alexander. Ethan watched, seething as they exchanged numbers.
The days passed, Alexander's presence grew. Lunch breaks together, coffee meetings. Ethan's frustrations mounted. Isabella's smile now belongs to Alexander. Ethan's possessiveness intensified.