She hesitated. How much could she tell him? The lie she was living felt heavier every day, but she couldnt afford to let it slip now. Just adjusting to everything, I guess. Its all... new.
Aiden nodded, taking a sip of his coffee. Youre handling it well.
Before she could respond, Aidens phone buzzed, breaking the moment. He glanced at the screen and frowned. I need to take this, he said, already moving toward the door.
Lily watched him go, a knot tightening in her stomach. She could feel the distance between them growing every day, and she wasn't sure if that was a good thing or not.
A few hours later, Lily was in Michaels office at one of his upscale clubs, her nerves on edge. Michael sat behind his large mahogany desk, his sharp eyes locked onto her as she gave her latest report. She had gotten better at fabricating details, slipping in just enough truth to make it believable but keeping Aidens trust intact.
Youre sure Aiden hasnt done anything suspicious? Michael asked, his tone cold and calculating.
Lily shook her head, maintaining her calm. No, nothing. Hes been busy with work, and I havent seen or heard anything that would suggest hes unfaithful.
Michaels jaw tightened. Im losing patience, Lily. If Aiden marries that woman, everything is over for me. I need something solid.
Lily bit her lip, feeling the pressure mounting. Im doing everything I can, but Aiden is... careful.
Michael stood up abruptly, walking around his desk to stand in front of her. His presence was intimidating, a reminder of the dangerous waters she was treading.
Listen, he said, lowering his voice, if you want to keep that paycheck flowing, you need to get closer to him. Seduce him if you have to. I dont care how you do it—just get me something. Aiden cant win this.
Lilys heart pounded in her chest, but she kept her expression neutral. Ill try.
Michaels eyes softened slightly, and he reached out to gently lift her chin, forcing her to meet his gaze. Im counting on you, Lily. Don't disappoint me.
When Lily returned to Aidens mansion that evening, her mind was spinning. The weight of Michaels demands felt suffocating, and the thought of betraying Aiden—someone she was starting to trust, perhaps even care for—was tearing her apart.
But what choice did she have? Her fathers life depended on the money Michael was providing, and walking away wasnt an option.
As she stepped into the grand foyer, Aiden was there, waiting for her. He looked up from the paperwork in his hand, his gaze narrowing.
Where have you been? he asked, his tone slightly sharper than she expected.
I had errands to run, Lily said, her voice steady but her stomach knotting with guilt.
Aiden didn't say anything for a long moment, his hazel eyes locked onto hers as if he was trying to read her mind. Then, without a word, he turned and walked away, leaving her standing there, feeling more lost than ever.
As the door to his office clicked shut, Lily realized something: the game she was playing was getting more dangerous by the day. And if she wasn't careful, she was going to lose—everything.