on fills the air with a savory aroma, but my mind is elsewhere. Last night was one o

in the pan, I rehea

mantic partner. I am deeply honored that you have placed your trust in me by seeking my assistance in this matter. Ho

eels more than a little suspicious. He's been icy and dismissive towards me since h

know the type - rich, entitled men who think they can treat women like dirt and then

as a pawn in his game? I've seen enough drama to know that things aren't always what they seem, especi

e follows, and I turn to see her walking into

sound casual despite the tensio

u," she says, her eyes scannin

s," I reply, gesturing t

lence between us is palpable. I know Gabrielle is hiding

ven. "You've been distant for a long time, and I kn

floor. "Aurora, I'm so sorry. I know I'v

what?" I press, m

a dangerous cartel, and that's how he was suddenly gett

mouth suddenly tasting bitter. "

orry. I wanted to tell you, but he threatened to ruin my career if

it down, trying to process the revelation. "He d

make you hate him and convince you to leave New York. I didn't want Kaitlyn to have a criminal

ion. "I understand why you did that, Gabby. But you

earching mine. "I know, Aurora.

nd seek with me? You stopped answering my calls,

re of how to tell you and I was scared you'd be an

nother hug. "I mis

et as the sun rises higher in the sky. Finally, Gabrielle

tension in the office is palpable, like a thick fog that refuses to lift. Ethan'

, Au

on? Everything fee

derbilts are at each other's throats, and

ay! I had no idea i

asn't lyin

around here."Ethan chuckles, his eyes

than just a rumor. He's been acting strange lately. It

sing the information. "Any ide

ggles. Dominic, his brother, they've been at e

eces start to f

for sure," Ethan adds before excusing himself.

ce trails off,

can't resist delving into the details of this powerful family. In a family like the V

d myself giving in to an urge I never thought I'd entertain-I decide to take

voices from within catch my attenti

act like this." A femal

do what is needed." Mr. Vander

we want to see you follow your dad's

chest as I strain my ears to he

know finding a partner is no joke.

st be in a stable relationship by age thirty to remain CEO. Y

f agreement in the room and m

, Dominic." Mr. Vanderbilt'

introduce your partner to us, or you lose your

t allow them take a

dition. Son, there's nothing I can do abo

s

tion. I don't exactly like my boss but the last thing

m met face to face with Mr. Vanderbilt. His icy eyes meet mine and my

rips my hand and pul