My contract love story

“This is not Megan, sir. This is Ashleigh Hartman. Megan’s currently in the hospital.” The gentle yet firm voice cut through the room, casting a palpable heaviness in the air.

Mr. Turner swallowed hard, his gaze flicking nervously from the terrified assistant to his boss, who glared darkly at the phone. The tension in the room seemed to intensify with each passing second.

Earlier…

After their heated argument, Adrian had retreated to Italy, seeking solace in his mother’s company and the familiar rhythm of business at Cagliari Industries. The trip was intended to be a period of both personal and professional reflection. It offered him a chance to delve into Ashleigh’s background, to sift through her family’s history and their business dealings. Adrian reminded himself that his primary goal for marrying Ashleigh was to further his own ambitions. Her feelings, whatever they might be, were merely a means to an end. He resolutely chose not to address her probing questions about his emotions, as he had no answers that would satisfy her or himself.

Yet, despite his resolve, his actions betrayed his intentions. Throughout the trip, Adrian kept a close watch on Ashleigh. He was well aware of her movements and ensured that Tristan and James were on constant surveillance, tracking her every step at Robin College. Their reports included details about her daily schedule, the people she interacted with, and her whereabouts. It was a meticulous operation, and Adrian’s interest was both keen and unyielding. He relieved them of their duties on Saturday morning, instructing them to resume their surveillance on Monday.

The evening found him at a business gala hosted by the Association of Companies in Italy. Caelia, at his mother’s insistence, accompanied him. Alexander Myron, a prominent politician, business executive, and a friend, greeted Adrian with a firm handshake and a broad smile.

“Hey Adrian, it’s been a while,” Alexander said, his imposing presence accentuated by his tailored suit and chiseled features.

“It certainly has. I trust you’re well?” Adrian replied. Alexander’s eyes flickered to Caelia, who stood beside him, a small smile playing on her lips.

“You’ve finally brought company with you. You’ve given everyone the impression of a lone wolf for far too long. Nice to meet you,” Alexander teased, turning his attention to Caelia.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you. I’m Caelia LaRosa,” she replied, her gaze lingering on Adrian with a touch of admiration.

“LaRosa, I have some dealings with your family. Please convey my regards,” Alexander said. Caelia nodded politely.

Adrian paid little attention to their exchange, focusing instead on a conversation with Mr. Turner, which earned him curious glances from Alexander. Caelia, despite Adrian’s aloof demeanor, maintained her gracious smile. She had long anticipated this opportunity to be with Adrian, and nothing would dampen her spirits. Their entrance into the hall had attracted attention from various media outlets, and by the end of the evening, their presence would be plastered across news outlets, solidifying their relationship status. This thought alone made Caelia’s heart race with excitement.

Alexander’s assistant approached, whispering something into his ear, causing Alexander’s expression to darken.

“Is everything alright?” Adrian asked, noting the shift in Alexander’s demeanor.

“It’s nothing too grave. I’d like to discuss something with you privately, if you don’t mind,” Alexander replied, gesturing for Adrian to follow him. Adrian agreed with a nod.

“Do I need to come with you?” Caelia asked.

“No, stay here and mingle. I’ll be back soon,” Adrian assured her. Caelia reluctantly removed her hand from his arm, allowing him to follow Alexander to a nearby conference room.

Inside the room, they discussed general matters before Alexander broached a proposal for collaboration. Their conversation grew intense, with Alexander’s assistant frequently stepping out and returning with a somber expression. Despite Adrian’s questions, Alexander claimed it was a personal issue.

After another brief absence, the assistant hurried back into the room, handing Alexander a phone.

“I’m sorry for the interruption, Adrian. I need to take this call,” Alexander said, and Adrian nodded in understanding.

As Alexander answered, his anger became palpable, his words sharp and frustrated. When the caller responded, his demeanor shifted abruptly, and Adrian’s as well. The unexpected caller caused his heart to still.

Presently…

The news from Ashleigh had ignited a fire within Alexander and Adrian, his previously controlled demeanor now brimming with anger and worry. Alexander, who had witnessed Adrian’s earlier indifference, watched as a flicker of emotion passed through his face before he regained his composure. He was taken aback by this sudden display of raw emotion. Yet, his focus remained on finding Megan.

“So, where are you now?” Alexander inquired, the phone’s silence stretching before Ashleigh’s response.

“It depends on who’s asking. What relationship do you have with Megan?” she questioned, her voice tinged with agitation. Adrian glanced at Alexander, waiting for his answer, and sighed deeply.

“I’m her fiance. So, can you tell me where you are?” he pressed in frustration , a ghost of a smirk fleeting across Adrian’s face.

“Oh, then we’re at Fulmer’s Hospital, northeast of the city,” Ashleigh replied. Adrian’s assistant quickly noted the location and left the room.

“So, I take it you’ll be heading there?” Ashleigh’s voice resonated through the room, and Adrian’s eyes fluttered close, his chest tightening Ashleigh’s voice echoed in the room once again.

“Yes… and Ashleigh, are you alright?” Alexander asked, his gaze fixed on Adrian, who had yet to open his eyes.Content (C) Nôv/elDra/ma.Org.

“I have a minor injury, but I’m fine,” Ashleigh assured, ending the call.

A heavy silence followed before Adrian broke it. “When were you planning to tell me about your engagement?” he asked, his voice low and controlled. Alexander glanced at him, a mixture of surprise and reluctance on his face.

“We hadn’t spoken until recently. I reconnected with Megan and we got engaged, though she wasn’t exactly thrilled about it. She’s been a challenge,” Alexander admitted, an affectionate smile betraying his frustration.

“You don’t seem to mind her troublesome ways,” Adrian remarked, observing his friend’s infatuated expression.

“I could say the same about you and Ashleigh. You appeared unusually concerned for someone you don’t know, quite a contrast to earlier” Alexander countered, raising an eyebrow.

“I have no significant relationship with her. I didn’t mention it because it’s not relevant,” Adrian stated impassively, but his face showed a hint of urgency.

“That’s not what I saw. You nearly leaped out of your seat when you heard her voice. You seem quite familiar with her,” Alexander observed, though Adrian remained unmoved.

Alexander’s assistant returned, prompting Alexander to stand. “I must leave. The situation is more critical than I anticipated. We’ll reconvene at a more suitable time,” he said, and Adrian nodded in acknowledgment.

As Alexander prepared to leave, he paused at the door, casting one final look at Adrian.

“You’ve heard about her whereabouts. You should know better. Open your heart before it’s too late. You can only deny your feelings for so long,” he advised before departing, leaving Adrian alone with his turbulent thoughts.