CALI
I was lost in my thoughts until his low, firm voice snapped me back to reality.
"Strip"
For a few seconds, my body went numb. That was when it hit me—I was really here. This wasn't just talk or empty threats. I had agreed to this arrangement, and now I had to face the consequences.
I tried to remind myself why I was doing this.
For my brother.
But the words did little to comfort me. My hands trembled, and my eyes burned as tears gathered despite my effort to stay strong. I had expected something difficult—just not this soon.
I swallowed hard, forcing myself to breathe.
This man was cruel. Cold. Calculated.
I wiped the tears from my face, refusing to let him see how broken I felt. I straightened my back, deciding I wouldn't collapse in front of him. I had signed up for this, hadn't I?
Just as my emotions threatened to overwhelm me, he raised a hand.
"Stop," he said calmly.
Then, as if nothing had happened, he added, "Go and get ready. We have a business meeting to attend."
I didn't wait for him to say anything else. I rushed out of his room, which was directly opposite mine, my heart pounding. I found Bethel immediately and told her about the meeting. She nodded and offered to help me choose something suitable while I freshened up.
BRYAN
The look on her face was… unforgettable.
She wasn't screaming. She wasn't arguing. She was shaking—trying desperately to hold herself together. And that alone amused me more than it should have.
I almost laughed.
She looked fragile, overwhelmed, and completely out of her depth. I had never realized how easily I could get under her skin.
When I told her to leave, she didn't hesitate. The moment she stepped out, I burst into laughter, unable to hold it back any longer.
I went into my room and got ready for the meeting, selecting a black suit and pairing it with gold accessories. Tonight was important.
Especially since Thomas Winthrop was in town.
That meant I'd be seeing him again.
The memory of our last encounter made my lips curve into a smile.
CALI
I stepped out of the bathroom, drying my hair with a pink towel. My eyes fell on the outfit Bethel had chosen.
It was stunning.
Even without wearing it, I could tell it would fit perfectly. A black sleeveless gown—simple yet elegant.
I dressed slowly, smoothing the fabric as it hugged me just right. I paired it with black heels and minimal makeup, keeping everything subtle. Gold accessories completed the look, adding a soft glow.
I stared at my reflection for a long moment.
I barely recognized myself.
I sat on the edge of the bed, waiting for Bryan to send for me. My phone rested in my bag as I debated calling the doctor—but decided it could wait until after the meeting.
A knock interrupted my thoughts.
It was Bethel.
"Oh gosh, you look stunning," she said warmly, and I felt my cheeks heat up.
"You're definitely going to turn heads," she added with a giggle.
"Young master is waiting for you."
She waved and left, and I took one last breath before stepping out.