Emily's decision to oversee the community project was more than just keeping an eye on the work; it provided her with an opportunity to escape the Parker Empire's suffocating expectations. Liam's unannounced return had made matters more difficult, in addition to her grandfather's constant pressure. But she saw something new in Ethan, a challenge to her assumptions about wealth and power.
She never expected to be at ease in the middle of a construction site, but that is exactly where she found herself. The sound of hammering, chattering, and clanking metal surprisingly calmed her down. Emily could see Ethan directing the workers while wearing a basic shirt and jeans. He carried himself with ease and authenticity, which she had not encountered in her world of tailored suits and high-stakes meetings.
As Ethan approached her, a smile spread across his face. "I did not expect to see you here again so soon," he said, raising his brow.
Emily gave a sly smile. "I like to keep people on their toes," she said, her voice confident and curious.
"Obviously," Ethan stated, raising the corners of his lips. He gestured to the nearby improvised tables where the employees were having lunch. "Are you hungry? We have sandwiches. It is not fancy dining exactly, but it will do."
After a brief moment of hesitation, Emily nodded. Surprising herself, she said, "Sure, why not?" Usually, she would have laughed at the notion of consuming any food that was not presented on elegant china. However, things felt different with Ethan. She was Emily, not just the heiress from Parker.
They sat down, and the conversation started right away. Ethan talked about coming from a modest family that had to work hard for everything. He shared his passion for architecture and how, with just a dream and a great deal of persistence, he founded his own firm.
Emily was genuinely fascinated as she listened intently. His story was in stark contrast to her own. All her life, she had lived in luxury and her only concern was meeting her family's expectations. For the first time, she became aware of how much she had taken her privilege for granted.
Ethan interrupted her thoughts with, "Must be nice." It was just an observation; he was not being sarcastic or spiteful. "I mean, to have that kind of safety net. It allows you to take chances without being afraid of losing everything."
Emily's appetite rapidly disappeared as she peered down at her sandwich. "I guess," she added softly. However, there are additional chains attached to it. I have never truly been free to make my own decisions without always being reminded of my obligations."
Feeling thoughtful, Ethan nodded. "I understand that. I suppose everyone is carrying their own burdens. However, it appears that if you truly want to, you have the strength to break those chains."
Emily looked at him, her heart racing in her chest. She had never been spoken to like that before—as though she could control her own destiny. Her family's expectations had held her back for a very long time, and the Parker name had always been a burden. She sensed something different, though, with Ethan—a glimmer of hope that perhaps, just perhaps, she could be someone other than what her family desired for her.
For the remainder of the day, they strolled around the project site while Ethan gave her an overview of the various construction details and the community center's design. When he made jokes, Emily laughed and felt lighter than she had in a long time.
As they finished, the sun had already begun to set, illuminating the area with a cozy glow. When the employees started to pack up for the day, they stood together and observed.
"Thanks for today," Emily said softly. "I needed this, I really did."
With a warm smile that made her heart skip a beat, Ethan grinned at her. "I am available at any time, Emily. You will always be welcome here."
After a brief period of comfortable silence, Ethan spoke once more. Looking at her, he said, "You are not what I expected."
Emily's eyebrow went up. "Ahh? And just what were you expecting?"
"Someone cold and unapproachable," Ethan confessed. But that is not who you are. Even though you try to hide it, you care."
Uncertain of how to react, Emily felt her cheeks flush and turned her head away. It was the first time anyone had ever seen right through her. She was used to being the unapproachable, cool heiress, but something about Ethan made her feel visible.
Before she could say anything else, her phone vibrated in her pocket. Her sister Jade texted her, "We need to talk." I know what you are up to.
Emily's heart sank, and she quickly put down the phone, her mind racing. Jade had always been competitive, eager to prove herself to their grandfather. She would undoubtedly use Emily's growing intimacy with Ethan against her if she knew about it.
"Is everything alright?" Ethan inquired, his voice full of concern.
Emily forced a smile and nodded. "Yes, it is just family stuff. There is nothing I cannot handle.
But even as they bid each other farewell and Emily headed for her car, a feeling of dread persisted. It was evident to her that Jade was plotting something. It was not going to be good, whatever it was.
Driving away, she could not shake the thought of her sister's plans. Jade had always been sly, and meddling in Emily's affairs could only lead to disaster. Though she knew she had to proceed cautiously, Emily felt, for the first time in a long time, that she had something more than just a share of her family's empire to fight for.
She was determined not to let anyone take that away from her.