Chapter 45 The Spark That Burned Too Bright (Ethan’s POV)
Everywhere because of a blurb, not even a sound was heard. And when she finally decided to talk, her voice was calm as anything when she spoke. “Is that how you see me?”
I opened my mouth to talk, to defend myself, but ended up closing it. For the first time in my life, since I became ruthless with no heart, I didn’t have the answer ready.
She turned away from me, not ready to utter even one word. And in that moment, I realized something terrifying, something I never wanted to ever think of, I was losing her, and it was a gradual process. And I was willing to burn everything down to stop it. Anything at all that would save us, to get her back to me.
>>>>>>
Later that night, while I was alone in my study, I stared at the city lights and admitted the truth I had been running from. I didn’t love, it was never in my world, but somehow, I wanted to do badly. Even more than I can ever imagine.
And wanting Demilia, wanting her attention, her presence, her dependence, was far more dangerous than love ever could be. Because love let go, but control never did, not even when love is involved. And I was done pretending.
>>>>>>
“Why are you doing this, Vanessa?” She smiled at me across the table, lifting her glass like we were old friends again. “Because you deserve to be celebrated the best way possible.”
I watched her carefully, obviously suspicious of her new character. The lights in the living room were warm, soft music floating through the air, the quiet murmur of people I trusted, from board members, old associates, a few friends available. My house had never felt so crowded like this before.
“You already had the board dinner, why do this again.” I said. “This isn’t necessary if I must say.”
“Oh, Ethan,” she laughed lightly, stepping closer. “You closed the Helix deal, which no one was able to do for over a decade. The biggest project of the year, and you know about that. You didn’t just win, you crushed them, mashing them into potatoes.”
Applause broke out again as someone clinked a glass, maybe ready for a toast or whatever.
I didn’t miss the way Demilia stood near the staircase, distant, observing, but very quiet. Watching everything the way she always did now, like she was measuring exits.
Vanessa leaned closer to me in an attempt to make me calm. “Relax. Tonight is about you, and the least you should do is enjoy it.”
That was the problem. I let it happen like it was nothing, but it might end up spoiling a lot for me.
“You look tense,” Vanessa murmured later on when the guests had left, pressing a glass into my hand. I frowned slightly, having no trust for anyone.“What is this?”
“Something stronger for a strong man,” she said casually. “You’ve earned it, don't reject it.”
I should have refused, instead, over curiosity pushed me and I went ahead and I took a sip.
The burn slid down my throat, warmer than usual, even sharper, but I didn’t question it. I never liked appearing weak, or suspicious, especially around Vanessa.
“Better?” she asked, and I knew she did that on purpose.
I nodded once. “Fine.” But minutes later, something felt… different, completely weird. My skin seemed to buzz for no reason. My thoughts sharpened, then started to blur at the edges all of a sudden. My body felt restless, alive, charged with something I hadn’t felt in a long time, and I wondered where it was coming from.
It was a strange kind of power, radiating energy that doesn't come by everyday, except when hormones are high. It was a hunger to devour. I loosened my tie even without realizing I just did.
Vanessa noticed the moment I started acting strangely. Of course she did. Her smile widened like she already had an agenda.
“You should sit,” she suggested once the guests began leaving completely.
“I’m fine,” I replied, trying so hard to hold on.
“You’re not and we both know this,” she said softly. “You’ve been pushing yourself for months, working tirelessly to get this contract.” She placed a hand on my arm, and it was strangely warm, more than usual and at the same time, inviting. I didn’t pull away as I was supposed to.
And that was my second mistake.
>>>>>>>>
“Ethan.” Demilia’s voice cut through the haze that I found myself in.
I turned to fully face her. She stood at the edge of the hall, her expression unreadable, her presence grounding and igniting.
“What?” I asked like I didn't know why she called. I was startled to say the least.
“You look… off,” she said carefully.
“I’m celebrating,” I replied. Her eyes landed on Vanessa’s hand still on my arm.
“Oh.” That single word hit harder than any accusation could ever. Vanessa stylishly withdrew her hand, feigning innocence. “I was just helping him unwind.”
Demilia nodded, but her jaw tightened. “I was heading upstairs though.” Something inside me seemed provoked, and in panic at the thought of her leaving.
“Wait,” I said. She paused, but I knew it would only fumble for a few seconds.
Vanessa excused herself then. “I’ll check on the kitchen. I planned something special for later.”
She winked at me before walking away, and the door closed behind her.
And suddenly, the room felt too small to contain the both of us.
“You shouldn’t let her...” Demilia began. I moved before she could finish whatever she had in mind. I quickly grabbed her wrist gently but firmly, pulling her back against the wall.
“Ethan...”
I kissed her, very hard, in a hungry and uncontrolled manner. It was like the first time I was kissing, demanding entrance to her mouth in the most desperate manner, that at a point, I wondered if I was the same Ethan a few weeks ago. I wouldn't have kissed her, but I didn't know how it happened, and somehow, I didn't want it to stop. I didn’t plan to kiss her. I didn’t even imagine it, but here I am.