Carter Group International🏢
Ryan stepped out of the conference room of **Carter Group International**, his expression calm but his eyes slightly dark with irritation.
The meeting had gone on longer than necessary. Too many opinions. Too many unnecessary explanations. He hated repetition, and he hated incompetence even more.
The employees standing outside immediately straightened when they saw him.
"Good afternoon, sir."
He gave a small nod and walked past them without another word.
Inside his private office, the silence felt different—controlled. Clean. The way he liked it.
He loosened his tie slightly and sat down behind his large desk. He leaned back, closing his eyes for a brief moment.
But instead of financial reports or company numbers—
He saw her.
Aria.
The way she hummed while eating.
The way she looked confused when he told her she was too thin.
His jaw tightened.
Annoying.
A sudden knock interrupted his thoughts.
Before he could respond, the door opened.
Ryan didn't even look up.
"Justin."
A familiar grin appeared as Justin walked in confidently.
"You really should try being less predictable," Justin said casually, shutting the door behind him.
Ryan finally lifted his eyes. "You really should try knocking and waiting."
Justin ignored that and dropped onto the couch like he owned the place.
There was a brief silence before Justin spoke.
"Ryan… I haven't seen the girl today."
Ryan's expression didn't change.
"What girl?"
Justin rolled his eyes. "Don't act like you don't know whom I'm talking about. Aria."
Ryan's fingers stilled on the document he was holding.
"And?"
Justin leaned forward slightly.
"Did you fire her just because I said I liked her?"
Ryan looked at him directly.
"Yes," he said calmly. "I did."
Justin blinked.
"You're serious?"
"I don't joke about company decisions."
Justin stood up slowly.
"That's cold—even for you."
Ryan leaned back in his chair. "Find yourself another girl."
Justin studied him carefully.
"That's not the issue."
"Then what is?"
Justin crossed his arms.
"You seem interested."
Ryan let out a dry laugh.
"Me? Interested?" His voice was flat. "That girl is too ugly for me."
Justin stared at him in disbelief.
"Ugly?"
"And too thin," Ryan added casually. "You know I don't like those kinds of girls."
Silence filled the office.
Justin shook his head slowly.
"Ugly? Ryan, you don't even believe that."
Ryan's eyes darkened.
"She's average at best."
Justin stepped closer to the desk.
"No. She's naturally beautiful. She doesn't try. That's what makes it worse for you."
Ryan's jaw tightened.
"You're overthinking."
"Am I?" Justin challenged. "Since when do you notice if a girl is thin unless you've been paying attention?"
Ryan stood up slowly.
"I observe everyone."
Justin didn't move.
Justin didn't move, his eyes lingering on Ryan with a mixture of curiosity and something unreadable, hinting at deeper motives beneath his casual facade.
Ryan's commanding presence filled the room, but beneath his calm exterior, a flicker of vulnerability hinted at his internal conflict, making his reactions more relatable and engaging.
"I don't care about her."
Justin tilted his head.
"Then why remove her the same day I told you I liked her?"
"She wasn't needed."
"That's not true."
The tension between them grew heavier.
Justin narrowed his eyes.
"You're jealous."
Ryan's voice dropped dangerously low.
"Choose your words carefully."
Justin smirked slightly.
"If she's so ugly and thin, then let me go find her."
Ryan's eyes sharpened instantly.
"You won't."
Justin raised an eyebrow.
"Why not?"
"Because I said so."
The possessiveness in his tone was subtle—but clear.
Justin noticed.
A slow smile spread across his face.
"There it is."
Ryan's expression hardened.
"There is what?"
"You don't want anyone near her."
Ryan didn't answer.
Justin stepped back toward the door.
"For someone you claim is ugly and irrelevant… you're very protective."
Ryan turned away, walking back behind his desk.
"She means nothing."
Justin opened the door, then paused.
"Keep telling yourself that," he said lightly. "But next time you lie… at least make it believable."
The door closed.
Ryan stood alone in his office.
His hands slowly clenched into fists.
Ugly?
He didn't mean it.
Not even close.
And that truth bothered him more than anything.
🌸 Ryan's House🌸
The mansion was unusually quiet that afternoon.
Aria lay stretched out on the large cream-colored couch in the living room. She had taken what she proudly called *"the nap of her life."* The kind of nap that made you forget where you were when you woke up.
She blinked slowly and sat up, her hair slightly messy, her cheeks warm from sleep.
For a second, she forgot she was in Ryan Carter's house, but a pang of uncertainty crept in-was this really her life now, or just a fleeting dream?
Then reality hit her.
Right.
The billionaire's mansion.
Her phone buzzed again on the glass table in front of her.
Katy.
Five missed calls. Eight messages.
Aria grabbed the phone and opened the chat.
Katy:
Where are you?
Why didn't you come to work?
Did you quit?
ARE YOU ALIVE?
Aria sighed and fell back against the couch dramatically.
"What am I even supposed to say?" she muttered to herself.
Hey Katy, surprise! I moved into my boss's mansion. Totally normal. Nothing suspicious.
She groaned and covered her face with a pillow.
"No one would believe that," she whispered.
A soft knock interrupted her thoughts.
She quickly sat up properly.
One of the maids entered politely.
"Madam, do you need anything? We can offer you a massage if you'd like."
Aria blinked.
"A massage?" she repeated.
"Yes, madam."
Aria looked around the massive living room.
"I'm not sick. I'm not injured. I just woke up from a nap," she said awkwardly. "Why would I need a massage?"
The maid smiled gently. "Master Carter instructed us to make sure you are comfortable."
Aria froze slightly.
"He said that?"
"Yes, madam."
She looked away quickly, trying to hide the small warmth creeping up her neck.
"Oh… no, it's fine," she said quickly. "I don't need a massage. I'm okay. Really."
The maid nodded politely and left.
Aria exhaled.
"This place is too much," she murmured.
She stood up and stretched.
The house felt too quiet. Too big. Too empty.
"I need fresh air," she decided.
Without thinking too much, she walked toward the front entrance. The guards at the gate straightened when they saw her.
"Madam."
"I'm just taking a little walk," she said casually. "Not far."
They nodded and opened the small side gate.
Outside the mansion walls, the world felt… normal. Smaller houses. Trees. A quiet street.
Aria wrapped her arms around herself as a light breeze brushed her skin.
Then she heard it.
A tiny whimper.
She stopped.
The sound came again—soft, weak, almost like a cry.
Her heart tightened.
She followed the sound toward a small bush near the sidewalk.
And there it was.
A tiny puppy.
Small. Dirty. Shivering.
"Oh my God…" she whispered.
The little puppy looked up at her with wide, watery eyes and wagged its tail weakly.
Her heart melted instantly.
"Who would leave you here?" she said softly.
Without hesitation, she bent down and carefully picked it up.
It was so light.
So fragile.
The puppy immediately snuggled against her chest, as if it had been waiting for her.
"That's it," she said gently. "You're coming with me."
She walked back toward the mansion, smiling for the first time that day.
The guards looked confused but didn't question her as she walked inside holding the tiny creature.
One of the maids gasped softly.
"Madam…"
Aria looked up.
"Yes?"
The maid hesitated.
"Master Carter… does not like dogs."
Aria blinked.
"He what?"
"He doesn't allow animals inside the house," the maid continued nervously. "He will be very upset."
Aria looked down at the puppy.
It was licking her finger gently.
Her expression softened.
"He won't be upset," she said confidently. "It's tiny."
The maid looked worried.
"Madam—"
Before she could finish, the sound of a car engine echoed outside.
The maids stiffened.
Aria turned her head toward the entrance.
The large doors opened.
Ryan Carter walked in.
His expression was neutral at first. Controlled. Calm.
Then his eyes landed on her.
And then—
On the puppy in her arms.
The air instantly changed.
The maids lowered their heads.
Aria swallowed.
The puppy barked softly.
Ryan's gaze darkened slightly.
"What," he said slowly, "is that?"
Aria looked at him.
For a second, she almost rolled her eyes—but stopped herself just in time.
"Calm down," she said lightly, hugging the puppy a little closer. "It's not a big deal."
The maids froze.
No one told Ryan Carter to calm down.
Ryan's expression stayed composed. That was the dangerous part. When he was truly angry, he didn't shout; he just remained still.
He went quiet.
He stepped further inside the house, closing the door behind him slowly.
"It is," he said evenly, "a big deal."
Aria shifted her weight slightly but didn't move.
"It's just a puppy," she said softly, her eyes gentle. "It was outside. Alone. Shivering, and I couldn't leave it like that."
"That's not our problem."
The words were sharp. Cold.
Aria blinked.
"It is now," she said softly, looking down at the tiny animal in her arms.
Ryan walked closer, his shoes echoing against the marble floor.
"I don't allow animals in my house."
"It's not just your house," she replied before thinking.
Silence.
The maids inhaled sharply.
Ryan's eyes darkened.
"Excuse me?"
Aria realised what she had just said, but instead of backing down, she straightened slightly.
"You told me I'm staying here. So technically, I live here too. And I don't like seeing living things suffer."
Ryan stared at her.
"You're temporary."
That stung a little.
Still, she forced a small smile. "So is the puppy."
Ryan's gaze dropped to the dog. The puppy wagged its tail weakly.
"Get rid of it," he said flatly.
Aria's smile disappeared.
"No."
The word slipped out before she could soften it.
Ryan's jaw tightened.
"Don't test my patience."
"It doesn't even bark loudly," she argued. "It's tiny. It won't disturb you."
"That's not the point."
"Then what is the point?" she challenged.
Ryan's voice dropped.
"I don't like attachments."
Aria frowned slightly. "It's a dog, not a contract."
The maids were visibly uncomfortable now.
Ryan stepped even closer. He was standing right in front of her.
"You think this is cute?" he asked quietly. "You think this is some emotional rescue story?"
Aria's grip on the puppy tightened.
"I think it's basic kindness."
Ryan's eyes hardened.
"You don't get to change the rules in my house just because you feel emotional."
The words were harsh.
But what came next hurt more.
"You already don't belong here," he continued coldly. "Don't make yourself more of a burden."
The sentence hit her like a slap.
The living room felt suddenly colder.
The puppy squirmed slightly in her arms, unaware of the tension.
Aria's throat tightened.
"A burden?" she repeated softly.
Ryan didn't hesitate.
"Yes."
There was no emotion in his voice. No hesitation. Just cold honesty.
"You were brought here for a reason. Don't confuse that with having a place here."
That did it.
Her chest felt heavy.
She had been trying so hard not to feel out of place, not to feel small in this vast mansion, not to feel like an outsider. But his words made it hard to hold back her feelings.
But hearing it from him—
It hurt more than she expected.
She swallowed hard, blinking quickly so her tears wouldn't fall.
"I wasn't trying to change anything," she said quietly. "I just didn't want it to die out there."
Ryan looked at her for a long moment.
For a brief second, something flickered in Ryan's eyes-regret, anger, or perhaps a hint of understanding-before vanishing again, adding depth to his character.
Regret?
No.
It disappeared too quickly.
"Take it back outside," he ordered.
Aria looked down at the puppy.
The tiny creature licked her hand again.
Her voice came out softer now.
"You really hate dogs that much?"
Ryan's expression didn't soften.
"I hate weakness."
Her eyes lifted slowly to meet his.
"And you think kindness is weakness?"
He didn't answer.
The silence between them felt heavier than before.
Without another word, Aria slowly walked past him toward the door.
The puppy rested quietly in her arms.
As she passed him, she whispered—not angrily, not dramatically—just honestly:
"I didn't think you were that kind of person."
And for the first time since he walked in—
Ryan felt something twist uncomfortably in his chest.
Ryan didn't look at her again after she walked away with the puppy.
He turned and went upstairs without another word.
Inside his bedroom, he closed the door firmly behind him and walked straight into the bathroom. He turned on the shower, letting the water run over him as he stood there in silence.
His expression was calm.
But his mind wasn't.
Her voice echoed in his head.
"I didn't think you were that kind of person."
He clenched his jaw.
Why did that sentence bother him so much?
He had been called worse. Colder. Ruthless. Heartless.
He never cared.
So why now?
He pushed the thought away and finished his shower, changing into simple black home clothes before stepping out of his room.
Meanwhile, Aria stood quietly in the hallway outside her bedroom, listening.
She waited until she heard his bedroom door close.
Only then did she hurry inside her room and gently place the puppy on the floor.
"Okay," she whispered. "Operation Secret Dog begins."
The puppy wagged its tiny tail.
She filled a small basin with warm water and carefully bathed it, cleaning the dirt from its fur. The little dog trembled at first, then relaxed under her gentle hands.
"That's it… you're safe now," she murmured.
After drying it with a soft towel, she found a small bowl and brought some food from the kitchen that she had secretly taken earlier. The puppy ate eagerly.
She smiled.
"You were really hungry, huh?"
Her anger from earlier slowly melted as she watched the small creature eat.
Then she picked it up again and sat on her bed.
"Let's take pictures," she said playfully.
She held the puppy up beside her face and snapped a selfie.
The puppy licked her cheek.
She laughed softly for the first time that evening.
"See? At least you don't call me a burden."
Her smile faded slightly after she said that.
She shook her head and forced herself not to think about it.
Downstairs, Ryan walked into the dining room.
Dinner was already set perfectly on the table.
He sat down.
But the chair across from him was empty.
His eyes lingered on it for a second.
He picked up his fork, then paused.
"Where is she?" he asked calmly.
One of the maids stepped forward.
"She is in her room, sir."
"Why?"
"She said she was not hungry."
His hand slowly lowered.
Not hungry?
That didn't sound like her.
He remembered how she reacted to food earlier that morning.
He leaned back slightly in his chair.
"And the dog?"
The maid hesitated. "It is… in her room, sir. She bathed it and fed it."
His eyes sharpened slightly.
She kept it.
He should have been furious.
Instead, he felt something else.
Stubborn girl.
He placed his fork down carefully.
"Tell her to come down and eat," he said in a controlled tone.
The maid nodded quickly.
He added, without raising his voice, "If she still wants to keep her job."
The maid swallowed and hurried upstairs.
.
.
.
Upstairs, Aria was sitting cross-legged on her bed with the puppy in her lap when there was a knock on the door.
"Yes?" she called softly.
The maid entered.
"Madam… Master Carter asked that you come downstairs for dinner."
Aria looked away. "I said I'm not hungry."
The maid hesitated.
"He said… if you still want to keep your job."
Aria froze.
Her fingers slowly tightened around the edge of the blanket.
Of course.
She gave a small nod.
"I understand."
After the maid left, Aria looked down at the puppy.
"Looks like I'm being summoned," she whispered.
She gently placed the puppy on the bed.
"Stay here. Don't make noise. Don't run around. … exist quietly."
The puppy tilted its head.
She took a deep breath and stood up.
Her chest felt heavy.
It wasn't about the dinner.
It was the way he said it.
If she still wanted to keep her job.
She fixed her hair, wiped her face, and walked downstairs.
Ryan was seated at the table when she entered.
He didn't look at her immediately.
"Sit," he said calmly.
She sat down across from him.
The silence between them felt thick.
Food was placed in front of her.
She stared at it for a moment before picking up her fork.
"I wasn't hungry," she said quietly.
"You are now," he replied without emotion.
She swallowed.
He finally looked at her.
"Don't skip meals."
Her eyes flickered slightly.
"You just threatened my job."
His gaze remained steady.
"You ignored my instruction."
She looked down at her plate.
"It was just a puppy."
"It's not about the puppy."
She lifted her eyes to meet his.
"Then what is it about?"
He held her gaze.
"Disobedience."
The word landed heavily.
She felt small for a second.
But she didn't look away.
"I'm not your soldier," she said softly.
Something unreadable crossed his face.
"No," he agreed. "You're not."
The silence returned.
But this time—
It felt different.
And neither of them touched their food for a long moment.
Ryan's eyes narrowed slightly as he looked at her.
"You must hate me now," he said calmly, his voice cutting through the silence of the dining room. However, his eyes flickered with uncertainty, revealing a flicker of vulnerability beneath his composed exterior.
Aria didn't even blink. She leaned back in her chair, folded her arms, and kept her jaw tight, showing her strength and resolve to the audience.
"Yes," she said, her tone sharp and unapologetic. "I hate you. You're rude, arrogant, and completely impossible to deal with."
Ryan raised an eyebrow, the corner of his mouth twitching slightly as if to smile—but he didn't.
"You think you can just say that?" he asked evenly, his voice colder this time.
"I can," she shot back, her voice firm. "Because you're the one who barged into my life, bossed me around, and now expect me to… to live here like nothing's wrong?"
He leaned back in his chair, studying her with a quiet intensity that hinted at unspoken memories, his words deliberate: "And yet here you are, sitting across from me, alive and unharmed, after everything that's happened."
"I'm not your friend," she snapped, her eyes flashing. "I don't care if you're alive; I don't care if I'm breathing under your roof. Don't confuse obedience with respect. I'm only doing what I have to."
The words stung, even him, though he didn't let it show.
"Strong words for someone so small," he murmured, a hint of something unreadable in his gaze.
Aria's hands tightened on the edge of her chair. "Small? Maybe. Weak? Never. And I don't need you to comment on me or my life, Mr Carter."
His eyes darkened, but he didn't speak. He wanted to, wanted to retort, but something in her voice—the anger, the fire—kept him silent.
"Now if you'll excuse me," she added, standing abruptly, her voice trembling slightly as she grabbed her plate, the clink of cutlery echoing her rising frustration, before she stormed toward the couch with a huff, muttering under her breath.
Ryan watched her for a long moment, his jaw tight. He wanted to say something cutting back, but the sharp edge in her tone and the fearless way she looked him in the eye made him pause, revealing his internal struggle to the audience.
She walked toward the edge of the table, collected her plate, and returned to the couch with a huff, muttering under her breath.
Ryan remained seated, silent, staring at her as she retreated. Something in the way she carried herself—bold, defiant, unafraid—both irritated him and… intrigued him more than he cared to admit.
And for the first time that evening, he didn't have the heart to tell her to leave the puppy outside.
The tension hung heavy in the room, thick and unspoken. She hated him. He hated how much he wanted her to stay on her side of the room. Yet neither of them moved. Neither of them spoke.
Only the soft scrape of her fork against her plate broke the silence.
Ryan's hand tightened around his own utensils.
This was going to be… interesting.
Morning🌞
**Main Carter Mansion**
Mrs Carter sat elegantly on the couch, sipping her coffee, the morning sunlight falling softly on her face. She looked serene, yet there was a sparkle in her eyes as if she already had plans brewing for the day.
Kim strutted down the stairs, perfectly dressed in casual yet chic home clothes, her long hair flowing freely.
"Good morning, Aunt," she greeted, voice full of energy.
Mrs Carter smiled warmly, setting down her cup. "Hello, darling. How was your night?"
Kim crossed her arms and sat beside her aunt, pouting slightly. "It was fine, but I'm not happy at all."
Mrs Carter raised an eyebrow, tilting her head. "Oh? And why is that, sweetheart?"
Kim huffed, leaning back. "Because Ryan didn't welcome me properly. It's like he doesn't even want me here. He went to his house instead of staying here, and I—" she waved her hand dramatically, "—I deserved better."
Mrs Carter chuckled softly, reaching over to ruffle Kim's hair affectionately. "Oh, my darling girl… You know Ryan. He's stubborn, cold, and far too focused on his own world to care about feelings in the morning. But you, my Kim, deserve a proper welcome. Don't you worry about that."
Kim tilted her head, her eyes lighting up at the hint of excitement. "Really? What do you mean?"
Mrs Carter leaned back, her smile widening. "Tonight, I'm hosting a little welcome party for you. Just a small gathering. Nothing too fancy… well, maybe a little fancy. And I've made sure Ryan will be here. He will spend some quality time with you," she said, her tone teasing and warm, building anticipation for the audience.
Kim gasped softly, sitting up straighter. "Wait—Ryan? Here? With me?"
"Yes, darling," Mrs Carter said, her voice filled with gentle amusement. "I told him it's important. And you know him—he doesn't like being told what to do… but when it comes from me, he usually listens."
Kim's lips curved into a mischievous, spoiled smile. "Oh… I like the sound of that. Finally, some attention from the great Mr Carter himself."
Mrs Carter laughed softly. "You'll have it, my darling. Tonight will be perfect. And you, of course, must enjoy it fully. You're my special girl, and I won't let my favourite come home feeling ignored."
Kim leaned back on the couch, stretching luxuriously. "Hmph… I knew you'd fix it, Aunt. You always do. But he better not disappoint me."
Mrs Carter's eyes twinkled with amusement. "Don't worry, sweetheart. I've got it all under control. Now, have your breakfast. You'll need your energy for tonight—and don't forget, a little charm never hurts."
Kim giggled, standing up. "Oh, charm? That's my speciality. He won't know what hit him."
As she made her way to the kitchen, Mrs Carter sipped her coffee again, shaking her head with a fond smile.
"My dear Kim… spoiled, fearless, and impossible," she murmured, eyes sparkling. "Just the way I like her."
Night🌃
Aria was sitting on the edge of her bed, the tiny puppy curled up comfortably in her lap.
"I think I'll call you Coco," she whispered, scratching behind its ear. "You look like a Coco."
The puppy wagged its tail in agreement.
She smiled faintly. The room was quiet, peaceful—a small escape from the tension downstairs.
Then—
Knock. Knock.
Before she could respond, the door opened.
Three well-dressed women walked in.
One carried a large garment bag.
Another held a professional makeup kit.
The third had several shoe boxes in her arms.
Aria blinked.
"Good evening, ma'am," one of them said politely. "Mr Carter instructed us to come get you ready for tonight."
Aria slowly stood up, placing Coco gently on the bed.
"Ready for what?" she asked.
"There is a welcome party at the main Carter Mansion tonight," another woman explained. "Mr Carter wants to go with you."
For a second, Aria just stared at them.
Of course.
That's why she was here.
Pretend girlfriend.
Public appearance.
Image management.
She nodded once.
"Okay," she said calmly. "I've already taken a shower. You can proceed."
The women exchanged professional smiles.
"Perfect."
The transformation began.
The garment bag was unzipped slowly.
Aria's breath caught.
Inside was a stunning, floor-length evening gown. Deep emerald green silk that shimmered under the light. The fabric looked expensive—too expensive.
"This is… for me?" she asked softly.
"Yes, ma'am."
They helped her step into it carefully.
The dress hugged her waist perfectly and flowed down elegantly, with a subtle slit on one side that revealed just enough of her leg to be classy but bold.
Her thin frame—something Ryan had criticised—suddenly looked graceful. Delicate. Model-like.
The makeup artist stepped forward next.
"Natural glam," she said.
Aria sat down in front of the mirror.
Brushes moved skillfully across her face. Foundation blended smoothly. Soft contour defined her cheekbones. Her eyes were enhanced with subtle gold shimmer and long lashes. Her lips were painted a soft rose shade—nothing loud, but striking.
Her hair was styled into loose waves that fell beautifully over her shoulders.
When they were done, they stepped aside.
Aria slowly looked up at the mirror.
And froze.
The girl staring back at her didn't look like the awkward, stubborn girl who argued at dinner.
She looked… stunning.
Elegant.
Attractive.
Powerful in a quiet way.
The stylist placed a pair of diamond earrings in her ears and slipped on delicate heels.
"Perfect," one of them whispered.
Aria swallowed.
"Is this really necessary?" she asked softly.
"It is," the woman replied. "You are going with Mr Carter."
Downstairs.
Ryan was already dressed in a perfectly tailored black tuxedo. His hair was styled neatly, his expression unreadable as always.
He checked his watch.
Then he heard footsteps on the stairs.
He looked up.
And for the first time in a very long time—
Ryan Carter was speechless.
Aria descended slowly, one hand lightly holding the railing.
The dress flowed beautifully with each step. The lighting caught the silk fabric perfectly. Her hair framed her face softly.
She looked nothing like the girl who held a puppy and called him rude.
She looked breathtaking.
His eyes stayed on her longer than he intended.
Aria reached the last step.
Their eyes met.
For a brief second, the tension from earlier flickered between them.
But both masked it instantly.
Professional.
Cold.
Composed.
"You're late," he said calmly.
She raised an eyebrow slightly.
"You didn't give me a time."
He didn't respond.
Instead, he extended his arm.
She hesitated for half a second—then placed her hand lightly on his arm.
"Let's get this over with," she muttered quietly.
His jaw tightened slightly, but he didn't comment.
They walked outside together.
The driver opened the car door.
Ryan guided her inside carefully, his hand briefly resting on her lower back.
The touch was firm.
Controlled.
The car doors closed.
And they drove off toward the main Carter Mansion.
.
.
.
When they arrived, the mansion was glowing with lights.
Luxury cars lined the driveway. Elegant music played softly in the background. Guests in designer outfits filled the entrance hall.
The moment Ryan stepped out of the car, cameras flashed.
Then—
He extended his hand.
Aria stepped out gracefully.
And everything went silent for a second.
Whispers began immediately.
"Who is she?"
"Ryan Carter brought a woman?"
"Since when?"
"I've never seen him with anyone."
Even Mr and Mrs Carter, standing near the entrance, looked stunned.
Mrs Carter blinked.
"He has a… girlfriend?"
Mr Carter cleared his throat, equally confused.
Ryan walked confidently beside Aria, his hand lightly resting at her waist.
Possessive.
Intentional.
Every eye followed them as they entered.
Aria felt the weight of attention, but she kept her posture straight, her expression calm.
"Smile," Ryan murmured under his breath.
"I am," she replied without looking at him.
They truly took the spotlight.
People approached immediately.
"Mr Carter, who is this beautiful lady?"
Ryan's expression remained composed.
"My girlfriend," he said smoothly.
Gasps.
Aria forced a soft smile, nodding politely.
"Nice to meet you," she said gracefully.
More whispers.
More stares.
More curiosity.
Ryan Carter—cold, untouchable, never seen with a woman—was suddenly standing proudly beside one.
And no one could take their eyes off them.
Even Kim, standing across the room, froze when she saw them.
Her welcome party.
Her spotlight.
And yet—
Everyone was looking at Aria.
Ryan leaned slightly closer to Aria.
“Stay close,” he murmured.
She didn’t look at him.
“I’m doing my job,” she replied calmly.
But as cameras flashed again and the crowd buzzed around them—
One thing was clear.
Tonight—
They were the centre of attention.
And nothing would ever be the same after this.
Kim stood frozen, feeling overshadowed and jealous as she watched Ryan and Aria surrounded by guests, cameras flashing endlessly.
Her fingers tightened around the champagne glass in her hand as she watched Ryan and Aria surrounded by guests, cameras flashing endlessly.
Whispers filled the air.
“His girlfriend?”
“Since when?”
“She’s stunning.”
“They look perfect together.”
Perfect together.
Kim’s jaw clenched.
This was supposed to be her night-her moment to shine, her spotlight, her celebration.
Her welcome party.
Her spotlight.
Instead, everyone’s eyes were locked on that girl.
On *her*.
Kim turned sharply and walked toward Mrs Carter, who stood near the staircase, her expression far from pleased.
“Aunt,” Kim said, trying to keep her voice calm but failing. “What is the meaning of all this?”
Mrs Carter sighed softly but kept her posture composed, her voice steady and measured. “Lower your voice, darling.”
“No,” Kim snapped quietly. “This is supposed to be my party. You organised this for me. So why is that stupid girl getting the spotlight? And who is she, Aunt?”
Mrs Carter’s lips pressed into a thin line as she glanced toward Ryan and Aria again.
“I didn’t know he was bringing someone,” she admitted in a controlled tone.
Kim’s eyes widened. “You didn’t know?”
“No.”
Kim laughed bitterly.
“So he just shows up with a girlfriend? Out of nowhere? And no one knows about her?”
Mrs Carter’s gaze sharpened slightly. “Clearly.”
Kim looked back at the crowd.
Aria was smiling politely, answering questions gracefully. Ryan stood beside her, calm, protective, composed.
And the worst part—
He looked comfortable.
“He never brings women to events,” Kim muttered. “Not even once. Not even casually.”
Mrs Carter’s eyes darkened slightly.
“Yes,” she said slowly. “That’s what concerns me.”
Kim’s voice trembled with frustration as she said, “Aunt, everyone is talking about her. No one is even congratulating me. They’re asking about her dress, her name, how long they’ve been together—”
Her eyes filled with angry tears, but she blinked them away.
“I look like a joke.”
Mrs Carter immediately held her hands.
“You do not look like a joke,” she said firmly. “You are still the reason for this gathering.”
“Does it look like that?” Kim shot back quietly. “Because it doesn’t feel like it.”
Across the room, laughter erupted near Ryan and Aria.
Someone complimented her again.
Kim’s nails dug into her palm.
“Who is she?” Kim demanded again. “Where did he even find her?”
Mrs Carter exhaled slowly.
“I will talk to him.”
Kim shook her head. “No. I want to know now.”
Her voice dropped colder.
“She thinks she can just walk in here and take what’s mine?”
Mrs Carter looked at her carefully.
“Ryan is not something that belongs to anyone,” she said gently.
Kim’s lips tightened.
“You know what I mean.”
Mrs Carter studied Aria from afar.
The girl carried herself well too well for someone unexpected.
“She doesn’t look temporary,” Mrs Carter murmured under her breath.
Kim’s eyes flashed.
“What?”
“Nothing.”
Kim folded her arms.
“I don’t like her.”
“That’s obvious,” Mrs Carter replied calmly.
“She’s standing too close to him,” Kim added bitterly.
As if on cue, Ryan’s hand rested lightly on Aria’s waist again while answering a guest’s question.
Kim’s breath hitched.
“He never even stood that close to me.”
Mrs Carter noticed that too.
And that unsettled her more than she wanted to admit.
“Calm yourself,” Mrs Carter said carefully. “Making a scene will only make her look better.”
Kim swallowed her anger.
“But this isn’t over,” she said quietly, her eyes fixed on Aria. “If she thinks she can just appear and steal everything… she’s mistaken.”
Mrs Carter remained silent.
Across the hall, Ryan leaned slightly toward Aria and whispered something that made her force a small smile.
And that—
That made Kim’s jealousy burn even deeper.
Tonight was supposed to be her night.
But instead—
All anyone could talk about was Ryan Carter’s mysterious girlfriend.
And Kim was not the kind of girl who accepted being overshadowed.
The music softened as Ryan finally guided Aria toward his parents.
Guests subtly moved aside, curious.
Ryan stopped in front of them, posture straight, expression controlled.
“Mom. Dad,” he said calmly. “This is Aria… my girlfriend.”
There was a small pause.
His father’s face immediately brightened.
“Well,” Mr Carter said warmly, extending his hand, “it’s about time.”
Aria smiled politely and shook his hand. “It’s nice to meet you, sir.”
But Mrs Carter—
Her smile was different.
Polished.
Measured.
“Oh, darling, welcome,” she said, her voice overly sweet. “You’re… beautiful.”
“Thank you, ma’am,” Aria replied gracefully.
Mrs Carter lightly touched her arm.
“Come,” she said smoothly. “Let me show you around while Ryan speaks with his father.”
Ryan glanced at Aria briefly.
Their eyes met for a second.
Professional.
Careful.
She gave him a small nod.
He turned to his father.
Mrs Carter guided Aria away from the crowd, through a quieter hallway lined with portraits and antique decor.
The moment they were out of sight—
The warmth disappeared.
Mrs Carter’s hand dropped from Aria’s arm.
The smile faded.
Her expression turned cold.
“So,” she began calmly, “tell me about your family.”
Aria kept her composure.
“My family?” she repeated softly.
“Yes. Your background. Your parents. What do they do?”
Aria’s mind moved quickly.
Part of the deal.
She had been prepared for this.
“My father owns a small business,” she lied smoothly. “And my mother works in interior design.”
Mrs Carter’s eyes scanned her face carefully.
“And where are you from?”
“Originally from the city,” Aria replied without hesitation.
Mrs Carter hummed softly.
“And how did you meet my son?”
Aria forced a gentle smile.
“We were introduced through work.”
Mrs Carter’s eyes sharpened slightly.
“Work,” she repeated.
There was a long pause.
Aria could feel the air shifting.
Mrs Carter stepped closer.
“You don’t look like someone from our circle,” she said bluntly.
Aria didn’t flinch.
“I don’t try to look like anyone else.”
Mrs Carter gave a quiet, humourless laugh.
“Bold.”
She walked slowly around Aria, examining her like an object.
“You speak well. You stand well. But breeding cannot be taught overnight.”
Aria’s fingers tightened slightly at her sides.
“I’m not pretending to be anyone I’m not,” she replied calmly.
Mrs Carter stopped in front of her.
“Let me save us both time,” she said, her voice dropping into something sharp. “Break up with my son.”
The words hit directly.
Aria’s expression remained steady, but her heart skipped.
“I’m sorry?” she said softly.
“You heard me,” Mrs Carter replied coldly. “Whatever game you think you’re playing—end it.”
Aria straightened slightly.
“I’m not playing a game.”
Mrs Carter’s lips curled faintly.
“Every girl around my son plays a game.”
Her eyes moved up and down Aria’s dress.
“You’re pretty. I’ll give you that. But beauty fades. Status does not.”
Aria swallowed but kept her chin up.
“I care about him.”
Mrs Carter’s expression hardened instantly.
“Don’t lie to me.”
The sweetness was completely gone now.
“You think I don’t see through girls like you?” she continued ruthlessly. “You appear out of nowhere. Suddenly he’s ‘in love.’ You attend a high-profile event. You take the spotlight at a party that wasn’t even yours.”
Her voice sharpened further.
“You embarrass my niece in her own welcome celebration.”
Aria’s breath slowed.
“That wasn’t my intention.”
“I don’t care about your intentions,” Mrs Carter snapped. “I care about results.”
She stepped closer, her voice lowering dangerously.
“My son does not fall in love. He does not bring women home. So either you manipulated him… or you’re temporary.”
Aria’s heart pounded.
Mrs Carter’s eyes were icy.
“And if you’re temporary, you will remove yourself quietly.”
Aria forced her voice steady.
“And if I don’t?”
Mrs Carter didn’t hesitate.
“Then I will make your life very uncomfortable.”
The threat was calm.
Controlled.
Real.
“You have no idea what kind of family you’re standing in front of,” Mrs Carter continued. “We do not accept strangers into our name. Especially not girls without a verified background.”
Aria felt the sting of that.
“You don’t know me,” she said quietly.
“And I don’t need to,” Mrs Carter replied sharply. “You don’t belong here.”
The words cut deeper than expected.
“You will break up with Ryan,” she said firmly. “And you will stay far away from him.”
Aria held her gaze.
For a moment, neither of them moved.
Then Mrs Carter’s expression shifted back into a perfect, polished smile.
“Now,” she said lightly, “fix your face before we return. I don’t want anyone thinking we had an unpleasant conversation.”
She stepped past Aria.
“Oh,” she added coldly over her shoulder, “and don’t test me.”
Aria stood there alone for a second.
Her heart was racing.
Her hands were slightly shaking.
But she lifted her chin.
She had a job to do.