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 told herself she wasn't waiting for him.

That she wasn't checking her phone.

That she wasn't thinking about the way Alex had looked at her before Gabriel interrupted.

Because this was not how it was supposed to go.

She had spent years mastering the art of control—keeping people at a distance, making sure no one ever got close enough to hurt her. And yet, somehow, Alex Kingston had slipped through the cracks.

Emma exhaled sharply, shaking off the thought as she focused on the case files spread out in front of her. Work. That was what mattered. Not Alex.

Kingston: You left before I could buy you another drink.

Emma rolled her eyes, fingers hesitating over the screen.

But when had she ever been good at doing what she should do when it came to Alex?

Emma: Maybe next time try telling me the truth instead of making me walk away.

She didn't expect an immediate reply, but it came almost instantly.

Kingston: You walked away on your own, Carter. I never asked you to.

Emma exhaled through her nose, fingers tightening around her phone.

And yet, somehow, she still wanted to see him.

But before she could respond, a knock sounded at her office door.

Emma frowned. It was late—too late for anyone to be stopping by unannounced.

She stood up, cautious, before pulling the door open.

Alex Kingston, leaning against the doorframe, a small smirk playing on his lips.

"Figured I'd save us both the trouble of texting all night," he said smoothly, stepping inside without waiting for an invitation.

Emma narrowed her eyes. "How do you even know where I work?"

Alex gave her a lazy shrug. "I have my ways."

Emma crossed her arms. "That sounds vaguely illegal."

"Relax, Carter," he murmured, his voice low. "I just asked around. Turns out, you're pretty well known."

Emma huffed, watching as he made himself comfortable in her office, like he belonged there.

"You have two minutes," she said flatly. "Then you're leaving."

Alex smirked. "Oh, sweetheart. You know I'm not leaving that easily."

Chapter 55 – A Different Kind of Game