JUST US

The Introduction

Nathan had spent years mastering his ability to remain composed in any situation. Negotiating billion-dollar deals, handling ruthless board members, even dodging aggressive reporters—nothing fazed him.

But standing in this grand hall, surrounded by the overly affectionate smiles of both families, something in his gut told him he had walked straight into a carefully laid trap.

The conversation around him blurred as his father and Joseph Cladwell exchanged pleasantries. His mother was already chatting with Vivienne like they were long-lost sisters, their voices carrying the unmistakable excitement of women with a shared secret.

And Layla…

Layla was still watching him, that knowing glint in her eyes.

Nathan didn’t like it.

Not because she was looking at him, but because she seemed to already know exactly how this night would unfold. Like she had figured out the game before he had even realized he was playing.

“Shall we take our seats?” Joseph finally suggested, gesturing toward the reserved section near the runway.

Nathan followed, maintaining the façade of a well-mannered guest, though his mind was already working through possible scenarios.

The moment they sat down, Layla’s parents leaned toward her, speaking in hushed, affectionate tones. Nathan didn’t hear what was said, but whatever it was made Layla sigh softly before schooling her features back into a polite smile.

He could relate.

“You seem distracted, Nathan,” his mother commented lightly, her hand resting on his arm.

Nathan forced a small smile. “Just observing.”

His father let out a low chuckle. “Good. Then keep observing.”

Nathan didn’t miss the way Joseph Cladwell smirked at that. Something was definitely going on.

Moments later, the lights dimmed, and soft music filled the air as the fashion show began. Models strutted down the runway, each showcasing a piece from Layla’s new collection.

Nathan had to admit—he was impressed.

He had never paid much attention to the fashion industry, but even he could tell that Layla’s designs were nothing short of extraordinary. They were bold yet sophisticated, modern yet timeless. The audience was captivated, murmurs of admiration filling the room.

Layla, for her part, watched the show with a steady gaze, her expression unreadable.

When the final model walked, the applause was thunderous. Nathan turned his gaze back to Layla, expecting her to bask in the moment. Instead, she only gave a small, satisfied nod before shifting her attention elsewhere.

Before he could think too much about it, Joseph Cladwell stood up, raising a glass.

“A toast,” he announced, his voice booming with authority. “To my daughter, Layla, for proving tonight that she is more than just a name—she is a force of her own.”

Applause followed, guests raising their glasses in celebration. Layla’s smile was graceful, but Nathan caught the brief flicker of something in her expression—relief, maybe. Or was it exhaustion?

Then Joseph turned his gaze toward Nathan, and for the first time that night, Nathan felt truly uneasy.

“And of course,” Joseph continued, his voice dipping just slightly into something more… deliberate, “to the new beginnings that tonight will bring.”

Nathan’s grip on his glass tightened.

New beginnings?

He barely had time to process the words before his father stood as well, placing a hand on his shoulder.

“Nathan,” Charles Lancaster said smoothly, “why don’t you and Layla take a moment to talk? I’m sure you two have plenty to discuss.”

And just like that, the trap snapped shut.

Layla exhaled sharply, but her eyes held no surprise—only quiet resignation.

Nathan didn’t hesitate. He pushed his chair back, rose to his full height, and turned to Layla, offering his hand.

Layla, ever the poised heiress, slid her hand into his without a second’s hesitation.

Together, they stepped away from the table, the weight of expectation settling heavily on both their shoulders.

The moment they were out of earshot, Layla let out a soft laugh.

“Well,” she mused, her voice dripping with amusement, “looks like we’re officially pawns in whatever our parents have planned.”

Nathan let out a slow breath, studying her carefully. “You knew.”

Layla lifted one shoulder in a delicate shrug. “I suspected. My mother has been suspiciously excited about tonight. And my father? He’s been talking about securing the future of our family legacy.” She tilted her head. “What about you? Didn’t see this coming?”

Nathan clenched his jaw. “Not entirely.”

Layla hummed in understanding. “Guess we’re in this together, then.”

Nathan ran a hand through his hair. “This is ridiculous.”

“Tell that to them.” Layla nodded toward their parents, who were watching from a distance, no doubt waiting for their reaction.

Nathan exhaled. He had been blindsided, but one thing was clear—this wasn’t just about a friendly introduction.

Their parents had plans.

And Nathan had a feeling neither of them was getting out of this easily.