CHAPTER THIRTEEN

The atmosphere in the mansion was colder than ever. Lily had been on edge since breakfast, her nerves a live wire each time she saw Aiden. There was an intensity in his gaze lately, one she couldnt read. Hed been watching her differently, as if trying to uncover something she didnt want him to see.

By evening, she was in the study, pretending to be absorbed in emails, when she felt his presence behind her.

Lily. His voice was low, commanding.

She turned, her heart pounding. He was standing in the doorway, arms crossed, his gaze fixed on her with a penetrating sharpness.

Yes? She tried to keep her tone casual, but it wavered slightly.

He didnt move. Close the laptop.

She blinked, confused, but did as he asked. He stepped closer, his eyes never leaving her face.

Lets drop the act, shall we? he said, his voice cold, controlled. Youre not here to be my assistant, are you?

Her stomach twisted, but she forced a small laugh. I dont know what youre talking about. Im here to—

Save it. His voice cut through her words like a blade. You may be able to fool others with that innocent act, but it doesnt work on me.

The calm in his tone was chilling, but it was the look in his eyes that made her throat go dry. He was no longer the detached billionaire shed thought she was playing; he was someone far more dangerous.

If you think I havent noticed, he continued, the curious glances, the convenient excuses, the disappearing acts… I know exactly whats going on. He leaned in closer, his eyes narrowing. Who sent you?

I… She scrambled, her mind racing for a way out. Aiden, Im here to work. I just—

He raised a hand, silencing her. You think Im an idiot, Lily? I know where your family lives. I could buy that entire building, raise the rent, and throw them out onto the street. You wouldnt want that, would you?

Her breath hitched. You wouldnt.

Oh, I would. I dont take kindly to liars, especially ones who think they can double-cross me in my own house. He tilted his head, observing her reaction. So, lets try this again. Who sent you?

Lilys defenses cracked, her pulse hammering in her ears. She had no choice. She was cornered, trapped with nowhere to hide. The fear for her family outweighed her pride, and she knew she had to give him something—or risk losing everything.

It was… Michael, she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. He sent me here.

Aidens gaze darkened, but he didnt seem surprised. What did he want?

He wanted me to spy on you. To look for anything that might show… signs of infidelity, of scandal. Something he could use to make sure you dont get your inheritance.

Aidens jaw clenched, but he stayed silent, watching her as if weighing every word.

I didnt want to do it, she continued, her voice cracking. But he offered money, a lot of it. And with my father… I had no choice. I needed the money, Aiden.

His face remained unreadable, but he finally broke the silence. And yet, you lied to me every step of the way.

I know, she whispered, barely able to meet his gaze. But if I told you the truth, he would cut off everything. My fathers medical bills, everything… I couldnt risk that.

For a moment, the room was silent, tension thick in the air as he processed her words. Then, slowly, he walked around to the other side of the desk, placing his hands on the polished surface, leaning close.

What if I told you, he began, his voice dangerously soft, that I could offer you twice as much to stay here? But instead of reporting to Michael, you report to me. Feed him whatever I tell you to, and in return, your fathers expenses will be covered. I could give you far more than he ever could.

Her head snapped up, her eyes widening. You would do that?

Yes. Aidens tone was steel. But make no mistake—this is not a favor. Youve betrayed me, and I have no tolerance for disloyalty. This is your one chance to make things right.

She swallowed, her thoughts spinning. It was an impossible choice, but at the same time, she knew she had no other option. She nodded slowly, feeling a sense of finality settle over her.

Ill do it, she said quietly. Ill work for you.

Aidens gaze flickered with satisfaction, but there was something else there too—a hint of intrigue, as if he was beginning to see her in a new light. He straightened, slipping his hands into his pockets, watching her with an intensity that made her heart race.

Good, he said, his voice cold. From now on, youre mine. Your loyalty is to me and only me. Fail to deliver, and Ill make sure you regret it.

A chill ran down her spine, but she forced herself to hold his gaze. I understand.

Then lets get one thing clear, he continued. Youre to act as if nothing has changed. Do whatever Michael asks, but report back to me. If I find out youre playing both sides… His eyes narrowed, promising consequences he didnt need to spell out.

She nodded, feeling the weight of his conditions settle heavily on her. She had crossed a line, and there was no going back. But as she met his gaze, a strange thrill ran through her. She was stepping into something dangerous, something she couldnt control—and something she was beginning to find harder and harder to resist.

Aidens mouth curved slightly, a hint of satisfaction flickering across his face. Good. You can go.

Lily rose, her heart still racing as she moved toward the door. But before she could leave, he spoke again, his voice softer this time.

Remember, Lily, he said, his tone almost thoughtful, you may think youre doing this for your family. But in the end, youre here because I allow it. Dont forget that.

She paused, her hand on the door, his words sinking in. A part of her wanted to hate him for the position hed forced her into, for the power he wielded so casually over her life. But another part—one she wasnt ready to admit—felt drawn to him, to the darkness and intensity that seemed to surround him.

Without another word, she slipped out of the room, her heart pounding as she walked down the hallway. She knew she was in over her head, caught between two powerful men with everything to lose. But one thing was clear: from now on, there would be no turning back.