Iris_light

Five years ago, Elara Voss made one mistake—she fell for a stranger.
It was supposed to be one night. No names, no strings. But when morning came, he was gone, leaving her with two unexpected consequences—Olivia and Oliver, her twin children.
Now, Elara has built a new life, raising her kids alone while working as a top event planner. She's independent, successful, and determined to never look back.
Until Cassian Rhys walks back into her life.
Cold, ruthless, and powerful, he is the billionaire CEO of Rhys Industries—and the man she never wanted to see again. He doesn't recognize her at first… but when he does, the truth is only a breath away from being exposed.
Cassian doesn't believe in fate. But when he meets Olivia and Oliver, something about them feels strangely familiar. Too familiar.
And Elara knows it's only a matter of time before he puts the pieces together.
She must keep her secret.
He must uncover the truth.
And neither of them is ready for what happens when the past comes crashing back.

His House, My Rules

Elara stood outside Rhys Enterprises, her heart hammering.

Cassian had given her no choice. Either she faced him now, or he would dig until he unearthed everything.

She stepped into his office, her legs stiff, her throat dry.

Cassian was waiting behind his desk, composed as always. Except for the single file in front of him—the evidence of her biggest secret.

Inside was a copy of the Celeste Grand Hotel's guest list. Her alias, E. Laurent, was highlighted.

Cassian tapped a finger against the page. "Explain this."

Elara inhaled sharply. "What do you want me to say, Cassian?"

His expression didn't waver. "I want the truth."

She hesitated. If she lied, he would find out anyway. If she told him now…

Elara exhaled. "Oliver and Olivia are your children."

Even though he had suspected it, hearing it confirmed hit differently.

A heavy silence filled the office.

Then—Cassian spoke, voice low. "Why didn't you tell me?"

Elara crossed her arms. "Because you were never supposed to know."

His gaze darkened. "I had a right—"

"A right?" she cut him off, laughing bitterly. "You don't even remember that night, do you?"

Cassian's eyes flickered. That night… It was a blur.

"I was nothing more than a forgotten encounter to you," Elara said, her voice sharp. "I wasn't going to drag my children into your world when you wouldn't even remember how they came to be."

Cassian leaned forward, dangerously close. "You thought you could keep them from me forever?"

Elara's heart pounded. "I thought I was protecting them."

His stare pierced through her. "They're mine too, Elara. And I don't walk away from what's mine."

Chapter 8: No More Lies