Chapter 8: Battling the Inevitable

Rebecca shifted in her seat, staring out the window as the private jet soared through the sky. The city lights faded below, replaced by endless darkness and twinkling stars.

She still couldn't believe she had agreed to this.

What the hell was she thinking?

Her hands gripped the leather armrests, as if anchoring herself to something solid would help her regain control. But control had been slipping from her fingers ever since she met Ethan Carter.

Across from her, Ethan leaned back in his seat, completely at ease. He looked effortlessly composed—one arm resting on the armrest, his suit jacket draped over the seat beside him. His sharp eyes flickered toward her, amusement dancing in them.

"Relax," he said, his voice smooth. "You look like you're being held hostage."

Rebecca shot him a glare. "Maybe I am. I still don't know where we're going."

He smirked. "You'll see soon enough."

She exhaled sharply. "You're impossible."

"And yet, here you are."

Her jaw clenched. He wasn't wrong.

Why did she come?

A part of her wanted to believe she was just taking a much-needed break. That this trip was an escape from work, from stress. But the deeper truth?

She was running. Running from the emotions Ethan stirred in her. Running from the part of her that was still broken from Noah's betrayal.

But there was one thing she knew for sure—she wouldn't let herself fall again. Not for him.

Not for anyone.

When they landed, the crisp scent of the ocean filled Rebecca's lungs. She stepped off the jet and was immediately hit by the warm night breeze.

A private car was already waiting, and Ethan gestured for her to get in. She hesitated for a split second before sliding in.

The drive was quiet. Ethan didn't press her to talk, and for once, she was grateful.

As they pulled up to a luxurious villa overlooking the ocean, Rebecca's breath caught.

"Wow," she murmured, unable to hide her awe.

The place was breathtaking—large glass walls, an infinity pool that seemed to merge with the horizon, and the sound of waves crashing in the distance.

Ethan glanced at her. "You like it?"

She folded her arms. "What exactly is this trip for, Ethan?"

He loosened his tie, his gaze steady. "I told you. I needed a break."

"And you couldn't take a break without me?"

His lips twitched. "You make things more interesting."

She scoffed, ignoring the warmth spreading through her chest.

This was dangerous.

She needed to keep her guard up.

After settling into her room—one of many in the massive villa—Rebecca changed into something more comfortable and stepped onto the balcony. The night air was cool against her skin, and for a moment, she allowed herself to breathe.

The sound of footsteps behind her made her stiffen.

Ethan.

"I figured you'd be out here," he said, leaning against the railing beside her.

She didn't look at him. "I needed air."

He nodded, watching the waves roll onto the shore. "You don't trust me."

Her stomach twisted. "Why would I?"

He turned to her, and when she finally met his gaze, she saw something unreadable there. "I'm not him, Rebecca."

She sucked in a sharp breath.

Noah.

She had never spoken to Ethan about her past, but somehow, he knew.

Her walls shot up instantly. "I don't know what you're talking about."

Ethan's eyes darkened slightly. "You do."

Rebecca clenched her fists. "I came here to relax, not to have this conversation."

His jaw ticked, but he didn't push further. Instead, he nodded. "Fair enough."

Silence settled between them, thick with unspoken words.

Then, before she could turn to leave, Ethan spoke again.

"When you're ready to stop running, let me know."

Her heart pounded.

She left without another word.

But as she lay in bed that night, staring at the ceiling, she realized something terrifying.

She wasn't sure she'd ever be ready.