Affair With The Arrogant CEO

“And where exactly are you going to find this drink?” He shrugs his shoulder. “Easy. We’re surrounded by some of the best wine in the country. And Madelyn’s brother dropped the key to the wine cellar when we got here. What do you say? Unwind with me?” Isabella could think of a few ways they could help each other unwind, and some include having their mouths on more than just wine glasses. But then she remembered Madelyn’s deal. “As tempting as that sounds, I think I’m gonna pass. I’ve got a lot on my mind, and wine won’t help me figure any of it out.”

“Fair enough. I’ll tell the driver to bring the car around.” And few minutes later, they were driving back to the villa together. It was a quiet ride as Madelyn’s deal looms over her head. Enjoying the story? Read on at nov⁠elceo.com.

Later on in the evening, after having much rest. Isabella was in her room when a sharp tapping on her door. Only one person could be behind that sound. She brace herself as she goes to answer it. “Madelyn, hey.” Her voice was low and gloomy. “So? Have you thought about my offer? Or are you just going to keep avoiding me in a attempt to but more time?”

“Yeah, my though was that Ethan’s too good for all of this. He deserve to be loved by his fiancee, not battered away.” Madelyn wasn’t moved by her words. “What a sweet notion, but let’s reframe the issue on reality, shall we?”

Isabella exhales through her nose, feeling completely concerned. “This is so messed up! How can you be so willing to take everything away from Ethan just to get what you want?” Then her voice softened. “I thought you considered him a friend?”

“Well, sometimes business requires sacrifices, even friendly ones. But I wouldn’t allow you two to continue you little tryst until the wedding if I fight feel some affection for him. Although obviously, you will have to stop after we’re married, for appearance’s sake.” Madelyn stated nonchalantly.

“Wow! How professional.” She hated it, but she has known what her answer would be since Madelyn first propositioned her. Madelyn was giving her everything she wanted, even if it’s only until the wedding. How could she refuse? “Fine. You have a deal. But know that I’m not doing this for you. I am doing this for Ethan. I’ll do whatever it takes to protect him from you.”

“I don’t care why you’re doing it, as long as it’s done. Now, I think I’ll go for a nice long walk. It’s a beautiful night and I’m sure I won’t be back until late. You should take advantage of it while you can.” Madelyn breezes from the room without another word, and Isabella sink onto her bed.

She closed her eyes, attempting to push away all thoughts of Madelyn and her deal. She felt so antsy and wounded up, she needed... Ethan. Even if it’s not for the reasons of Madelyn thought she needed him. He must be in his room that moment. The more she thought about her offer, the angrier she got at the audacity of it.

Madelyn might have her beat in the boardroom. She might be making headway with the everyone. But Ethan is where Isabella always won.

She wished she could go to him, but that doesn’t just sit right. She’s keeping quiet about Madelyn’s affair for Ethan’s sake, but that’s it.

She settled back on her bed, wishing there was more she could do.

A week later, a new routine with the meetings how, and luckily, she haven’t crossed paths with Madelyn in a few days. She returned to the villa with Tyler from an afternoon touring a nearby museum when... “we have got great news!” Madelyn appeared. Isabella could hear how Tyler exhaled annoyed by Madelyn.

Tyler leads the way to the living room just as Madelyn pops the cork on a bottle of champagne with Ethan. “Uhh... what’s the occasion?” Isabella finally asked.

Madelyn looked at Ethan, excitedly. “Should you tell them, Ethan? Or should I?” He raised a brow but then smiled. “Uh, you go ahead.” He mouthed looking at everywhere but Isabella. “The Grayson Enterprises and Jason Industries have officially merged! I know you know that but anyway, we were so excited about the new that we decided to move up the weeding date to celebrate.”

“What?” Isabella shrieked, almost choking on the champagne she was sipping. “That’s right. Ethan and I are going to tie the knot right here in Rome in three weeks!”