Embers In The Ice

CHAPTER 2

Evan

"It's crowded in here," I remark to my secretary, Maria, as we navigate through the bustling city streets.

"Indeed, sir. The new food truck seems to be drawing quite the crowd," she replies, her tone as efficient as ever.

I take out a cigarette and light it, exhaling smoke as I watch the people milling about. The chaos of the city feels distant, irrelevant to my purpose.

I glance at my watch to check the time. "What's next on my schedule?"

"You have a meeting with the board at 3 PM, but before that, you're scheduled to visit the Bradshaw residence," she informs me, her eyes scanning her tablet.

I nod. "Good. Make sure everything is prepared for the meeting. I'll handle the Bradshaws myself."

"Of course, sir," she responds, seamlessly weaving through the crowd of people as we make our way to the car.

As we drive through the city, I notice the vibrant energy, but it all feels disconnected from my current state of mind. My thoughts drift to more pressing matters.

I open my wallet and pull out a picture of my ex, Dianne.

"Dianne... I keep trying to forget you so badly, but why is it so hard to do so... to hate you so fucking much?" I mutter, feeling the coldness grow within me.

Cheater... Liar... and a slut...

"Geez, what the fuck are you thinking, Evan? Pull yourself together."

No distractions... Focus, Evan.

The car glides smoothly through the streets, a stark contrast to the chaos outside. My mind reverts to the task at hand: the arranged marriage with Grace Bradshaw. This union is more than just a family agreement; it’s a strategic alliance that promises to solidify our family's power and influence. My father made sure of that.

"We're here, sir," Maria announces as the car pulls up in front of the Bradshaw residence.

I step out of the car, my mind already calculating the steps ahead. My guards fall into formation behind me, a silent testament to the authority I wield. I stride towards the house with a sense of purpose, each step measured and deliberate.

First time meeting my future bride, I guess.

I enter the house without waiting for an invitation. My guards follow, their presence overwhelming the small space. I spot her parents immediately, their faces lined with tension and unease. This is not just a family home anymore; it’s the stage for a crucial negotiation.

"Where is my bride-to-be?" I demand, my voice cold and authoritative.

Her parents exchange uneasy glances. Her father, David Bradshaw, attempts to speak, but I cut him off with a dismissive wave. "I don't have time for your excuses. Where is she?"

A flicker of anger rises within me. This has been dragged out long enough. The Bradshaws’ hesitance only adds to my irritation.

"I'm here," a steady voice replies. I turn to see her, Grace, standing with a defiant look in her eyes. Her gaze meets mine with a blend of courage and apprehension. "What do you want? And have some respect for my parents."

My lips curl into a faint smirk, though there’s no warmth in it. Annoyance flickers at her audacity. "Is that how you respond to your future husband, Grace?" I ask, my tone condescending.

My eyes wander over her body briefly, taking in her curves. There’s a strange sense of recognition, and then it clicks—the woman from earlier.

The encounter replays in my mind: the accidental bump, the startled apology. Now, seeing her here, I understand why she seemed familiar.

"I want you to prepare yourself for dinner tomorrow night," I say, my tone laced with cold indifference. I step closer, lowering my head to her ear. "And I suggest you accept it like a good girl."

I can see the chill my words send down her spine, the underlying threat clear. It’s evident that Grace is not someone accustomed to taking orders, but she will learn. I expect compliance without question.

Before she can respond, I turn on my heel and stride out of the room, leaving her standing there, shaken and bewildered. I can feel her eyes on me as I leave, the weight of our encounter hanging in the air.

As I exit the house, a sense of satisfaction mingles with the ever-present unease. Grace is not a woman to be trifled with, but neither am I.

I can't help but reflect on Grace. There was fire in her eyes, a resistance that both annoyed and intrigued me. Most people bowed to the Collimore name, but she stood her ground, at least for now.

My car arrives, and I get in, my mind already shifting to the next task. The board meeting is crucial. We’re discussing the expansion into Asia, a move that will solidify our dominance in the market. My secretary sits beside me, ready with notes and schedules.

"Did you get everything you needed?" she asks, her tone professional yet tinged with curiosity.

"Yes," I reply curtly. "Everything is in place."

As we drive to the office, I allow myself a brief moment of reflection. Grace
Joy is now part of my life, whether she likes it or not. She will learn to adapt, just like everyone else who enters the Collimore bloodline.

The rest of the day passes in a blur of meetings and strategic discussions. By the time I return to my penthouse, it’s late, and the city lights shimmer below. I stand by the window, a glass of whiskey in hand, contemplating the day's events.

Grace... She’s different. Not just a pawn in this game, but a piece with potential to affect the board. I will have to be careful with her. She needs to be managed, not just controlled.

To be continued...

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So that was chapter 2, I hope you liked this chapter.

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Thanks for reading😘😘😘!!!
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