novel_evaray

Ethan Blackwood wasn’t used to being defied. As the CEO of a global empire, he crushed obstacles with a single glance. But when Lily Anderson stood before him, her chin lifted in quiet defiance, and something in him snapped. "Sign the contract," he said, his voice like ice. "30 days. You’ll obey every command. After that, you’re free."

She hesitated, her fingers trembling as she gripped the pen. "And if I refuse?"

His smirk was cold, but his eyes burned. "Then you’ll spend the rest of your life paying off your father’s debts. Your choice."

Trapped, Lily signed. But she vowed one thing: she wouldn’t let him break her.

From the first day, their clash was electric. He demanded perfection; she gave him rebellion. "You think you can control me?" she spat, after he criticized her for being late.

Ethan stepped closer, his presence overwhelming. "I don’t just control you. Lily, I own you."

But as the days passed, the lines between them blurred. Late nights in his penthouse turned into whispered conversations. His cold demeanor cracked, revealing glimpses of a man haunted by his past. One night, after a heated argument, he pinned her against the wall, his breath hot against her ear. "Why do you fight me so much?"

Her voice trembled. "Because I’m afraid if I stop, I’ll lose myself to you."

Their connection deepened, but danger loomed. Secrets from Ethan’s past resurfaced, threatening to destroy everything. When Lily discovered the truth behind his obsession with her, she confronted him. "Was I just a pawn in your game? A way to settle an old score?"

His eyes darkened with pain. "You were never just a game, Lily. You’re the only thing that’s ever felt real."

As the final days of their contract approached, their bond was tested like never before. Enemies closed in, and trust hung by a thread. Could they overcome the shadows of their pasts, or would their love crumble under the weight of secrets and pride?

30 Days of Passion and Revenge

Lily was pushed into the car by Ethan, who got in right after her and started driving. She glanced at his expressionless face and asked, "Where are we going?"

Ethan didn't answer. He simply stepped on the gas, speeding past car after car.

Lily didn't press him further. She quietly studied his face, cherishing even a moment of being with him. It felt like a luxury.

Perhaps it was because of his fever—his face was slightly flushed. She could sense the burning heat radiating from his skin even without touching him.

The car drove long before Lily realized they were leaving the city. Where was he taking her?

"Where are we going? You're still running a fever—let's go to a hospital first," Lily said, unable to suppress her concern.

"Then let me drive. You should rest for a bit," she offered. He had been driving for a long time, and someone with a fever shouldn't be pushing themselves like this.

Ethan's Childhood Home