Nova_Everly

Emma Carter has spent years building her consulting empire, proving she doesn’t need anyone—especially arrogant, entitled men like Alex Kingston. Smart, ruthless, and fiercely independent, she’s always played to win.

Alex Kingston is a business shark—rich, charming, and impossible to outmaneuver. He thrives on competition and never backs down from a challenge. So when a billion-dollar deal forces them to work together, their rivalry ignites into an all-out war.

But as the battle intensifies, so does the undeniable attraction simmering beneath their fights. Enemies turn to reluctant allies, then something more dangerous—something neither of them is ready to face.

In a city where power is everything, will they fight for dominance… or surrender to a love that could ruin them both?

Against the Odds: A Love Rewritten

Emma walked through the grand hallway of the hotel, her heels clicking against the marble floor, her fingers gripping her phone a little too tightly.

At least, that's what she told herself.

But as she pushed through the exit doors, stepping into the cool Philadelphia night, she knew she was lying.

Alex Kingston was getting under her skin, and that was a problem.

The city lights stretched endlessly, casting a golden glow against the dark sky. Emma took a deep breath, steadying herself.

She had always been in control—of her choices, her career, her emotions.

And suddenly, nothing felt controlled anymore.

She exhaled sharply, shaking her head. Focus, Emma.

A black car pulled up to the curb, her driver stepping out. "Miss Carter."

She nodded, slipping inside the sleek vehicle. The door shut, sealing her in, and for the first time that night, she let her shoulders drop slightly.

Except, the moment her mind found silence, him—his voice, his stare, the way he had leaned just a little too close—was all she could think about.

She closed her eyes, as if that could erase the memory.

Alex remained on the balcony, hands in his pockets, watching the spot where Emma had just stood.

She had left, just like he knew she would.

There had been hesitation in her eyes. A flicker of something—something he was sure she didn't want to acknowledge.

He smirked slightly, shaking his head.

Emma Carter was stubborn, but so was he.

And for the first time in a long time, he found himself enjoying the chase.

The car ride back to Emma's apartment was quiet. Too quiet.

She stared out the window, watching the streets blur past. She had spent years building a life where distractions didn't exist. Where emotions were neat and manageable.

And yet, Alex Kingston had walked into her world like a storm—chaotic, unpredictable, and impossible to ignore.

She hated that a part of her didn't.

By the time she stepped into her apartment, the exhaustion hit.

She dropped her bag on the counter, kicking off her heels before making her way to the kitchen. Pouring herself a glass of water, she leaned against the counter, staring at nothing.

Before it turned into something she couldn't control.

Alex Kingston: Sweet dreams, Carter.

Emma's breath caught for half a second before she shook her head.

Instead, she turned off her phone, placed it face down, and walked away.

But even as she lay in bed, staring at the ceiling, she knew.

And she wasn't sure who would win.

Chapter 12: A Battle Within