Bound to the Cold Hearted CEO

The Shadow of the Past

The morning light spilled into the breakfast nook, making the crystal vases sparkle. For a moment, sitting across from Alexander as he sipped his black coffee, I felt like a real wife. But the peace was shattered when his assistant entered, looking pale.

​"Sir... Isabella is in the lobby. She says she won't leave until she speaks with you."

​ I saw Alexander’s jaw tighten instantly. The temperature in the room seemed to drop ten degrees. He didn't look at me, but I saw his hand clench around his cup.

​ Before he could respond, the doors swung open. A woman who looked like she stepped off a runway marched in. She was beautiful, but her eyes were full of venom as they landed on me.

​"So, is this a little replacement?" Isabella laughed, a cold, sharp sound. "Alexander, really? You went from me to... this? A girl who looks like she’s wearing her first pair of expensive shoes?"

​ I felt my face flush with shame, and I started to stand up to leave the room. I didn't belong in a fight between billionaires. But before I could move, Alexander’s hand shot out and gripped mine, pulling me back down into the seat next to him.

​ He stood up, but he didn't let go of my hand. He laced his fingers through mine, holding me firmly.

​"Isabella, you were never 'replaced' because you were never truly here," Alexander said, his voice a low, dangerous growl. He turned to me, and his expression softened so much it made my breath hitch. He leaned down and kissed my temple right in front of her.

​"Bliss is twice the woman you will ever be. She has a heart, something you wouldn't understand. Now, get out of my home before I have security show you the way."

​ As Isabella stormed out, screaming in rage, Alexander didn't let go of my hand. He looked down at me, his eyes searching for mine for any sign of hurt. "Don't listen to her, Bliss. You’re the only one I want in this house. Do you hear me?"

​ I nodded, unable to speak. For a man who claimed this was all a contract, he was doing a very good job of making me feel like I was his whole world.