Chp 1-The Divorce.
Ryan, the well-known billionaire in Dubai, strolled into Tara's office, as usual, unannounced. When he didn't see her at her desk, he immediately knew where to find her.
Tara was in the ladies’ room when she spotted him through the mirror. She knew what his presence signified. “Finally, you’re here. Did you receive my reminder?” Tara asked. “We’re having a meeting in a few minutes.“
“Oh please. Meetings can always wait,” Ryan replied, moving closer and wrapping his arms around her from behind.
Before Tara could hesitate, he unzipped her gown and he ran his hands all over her. He pulled her tightly against him, his hands caressing her body, and his mouth hot on her neck.
“Did you miss me?” He murmured, as his mouth moved lower and his hand slipped between her legs, tugging at her hard n*****s. She couldn’t help but moan softly. She widened her legs as he slid his fingers inside her. She was so wet and about to c*m for him.
Ryan might be arrogant, extravagant, and promiscuous, but he was damned good and knew how to turn her on and make her beg for his d**k.
She couldn't deny it; she’d missed him. They have been married for five years, yet he often disappears for days, even weeks, spending nights out with his mistresses. For years, this was their reality.
He bent her over and entered her hard until she was moaning loudly. She felt his c*m and heard his grunt of satisfaction. Afterward, Tara dressed for the board meeting while Ryan left her office without a word.
“See you in the meeting, honey,” Tara called out.
The meeting just started when Tara walked in. “Pardon my lateness,” She said, taking her seat.
Immediately, Ryan stood up across the boardroom table. All eyes were on him, anticipating his opening remarks.
“We’re officially divorced,” Ryan said coldly.
Shock rippled through the room, and whispers of disbelief filled the air.
Tara was stunned, speechless. She just stared at Ryan, her mind reeling. She was an attorney whose career had been sidelined to support his vision of becoming a global billionaire.
Five years of marriage, and building and sustaining Ryan Blake's world behind closed doors. Her sacrifice had ended with this abrupt announcement, without any prior notice.
Ryan slid two sheets of paper in front of her. “Sign this,” he said.
Her hand trembled as she opened the document. Only then did she grasp the ruthlessness of her husband. He could be selfish, but this humiliation was completely unexpected. Tara stared at the paper, her mind going blank.
Then, someone whispered, “Mr. Ryan… don't you think this discussion should be private?” The Dubai regional manager asked cautiously.
Ryan's expression darkened. “ Shut up, f**l.”
The room fell silent.
Tara remained composed. She stood and walked elegantly out of the boardroom. All eyes followed her, but no one uttered a word. As she neared the door, Eloise's voice echoed in her ear. Just about a week ago, Eloise, Ryan's favourite mistress, had confronted her at a fashion house and said.
”Mrs. Blake, expect the unexpected.”
Could this public humiliation be what Eloise had warned her about?
Behind her, Ryan justed his jacket, “Now, let’s continue our meeting,” he said calmly.
News travels fast, bad news travels even faster. By the time Tara exited the boardroom, the corridor was already crowded with reporters. The camera flashes were almost blinding.
“Mrs. Blake, how do you feel about the divorce?”, “Did you know this was coming?”
Tara maintained her composure, but the questions ricocheted through the air like bullets. She felt overwhelmed before a security guard came to her rescue and escorted her toward the private elevators.
Thankfully, Tara made her way back to the penthouse. By evening, she'd packed her belongings. Memories flashed back, her numerous sleepless nights of closing loopholes, and saving deals. She’d watched Ryan receive applause for successes he hadn't authorised.
Tara projected competitor threats, developed strategies, and ensured success at all costs, leaving her own life vulnerable. Now, leaving this luxurious lifestyle wasn't a choice, but the only option.
As she prepared to leave, Ryan appeared. He tossed a document on the table. “The divorce papers,” he said calmly.“You forgot to sign. Do it now.”
In disappointment, she stared at him and scanned through the document. Then, she found out the terms were unbelievable. “Are you serious righ, Ryan?” she asked. “I’ve done everything,” she screamed. “I’ve managed our home and supported your ambitions." She wept. “You have to be joking.”
Ryan stepped closer, “I’m not joking.” He believed she was no longer necessary. He leaned toward her. “Tara, you know I won’t keep what I don’t need”
“Sign it, I don't have all day.”
Tara realised she'd been used. Her hands trembled as she signed away a success she had helped build.
“I know you‘ll miss me, ex-wife,” Ryan said happily.
Quietly, Tara made her way to the elevator. Just before the doors closed, her phone buzzed.
An unknown number message: “Removing YOU was the worst mistake.”