It had been four days since the gala.
Four days since Arielle saw Leonard walk away with his first love.
He hadn't said a word about Samantha since that night.
No explanation. No apology.
And now, here they were—on their way to another formal event.
This time, a business dinner. Smaller. But still filled with powerful people in expensive suits and fake smiles.
Arielle sat in the backseat of the car, staring out the window.
She wore a sleek black dress with thin straps and gold heels.
Her hair was tied in a loose bun, exposing her neck and shoulders.
She looked elegant. Beautiful.
But she didn't feel like herself.
"You've been quiet," Leonard said from beside her.
"I thought silence was part of the contract," she replied.
He glanced at her, frowning.
"You're upset."
"Why would I be?" she said, forcing a small smile. "It's just a contract, right?"
He didn't respond.
---
At the Dinner
The restaurant was private and dimly lit, with soft music playing in the background.
Leonard introduced her to two important partners.
Arielle smiled, answered politely, and played the role of the perfect wife.
But the moment that changed everything came when one of the men leaned a little too close.
"So, Leonard," he said with a chuckle, "you married this beautiful thing and didn't tell us? If you ever get tired of her…"
His hand touched Arielle's back—too low.
Before she could move, Leonard grabbed the man's wrist.
Hard.
"I suggest you take your hand off my wife before I break it."
The man laughed nervously, trying to brush it off.
Leonard didn't laugh.
Arielle felt her heart race—not just from fear, but from something else.
He's cold, but he's not heartless. Not when it comes to me…
---
Back at the Mansion
They didn't speak on the way home.
The moment the door closed behind them, Arielle turned to him.
"You didn't have to defend me like that."
"Yes, I did."
"Why? Because I'm part of your image?"
"Because I didn't like the way he looked at you."
His voice was low. Sharp.
Arielle's chest tightened.
"I don't belong to you," she said quietly.
Leonard stepped closer.
"Don't you?"
Her breath caught.
"We have rules."
"Rules break. Sometimes."
Their eyes locked.
Arielle didn't know who leaned in first.
Maybe it was him. Maybe it was her.
But suddenly, the space between them disappeared.
His lips brushed hers—hot, soft, forbidden.
Then he pulled back like he'd made a mistake.
"Go to bed, Arielle," he said.
"Right," she whispered, her voice barely there.
She walked up the stairs, her heart pounding in her chest.
If he kisses me again… I don't think I'll be able to stop.
And neither will he.
---
End of Chapter 5