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The CEO's Drama Queen

NovelShort Completed

Billionaire Revenge Romance SecondChanceRejected

Nicole Vargas. Spoiled, rich, smart, and melodramatic. She graduated Fashion Design in Brazil and was the daughter of a well known artist and the CEO of 'The Vargas' hotel and casino chains. She could get anything she wants at just the snap of her fingers. Even her career. But she didn't. And she wouldn't take advantage of her parents position in society. In fact, she wanted to be successful on her own. But her father didn't want to let her go all the way to New York where she could fulfill her dreams. For him, she was still a little girl. Ethan Gray. Insanely handsome and a mouthwatering specimen. Ethan Gray graduated Business Administration at the London Business School in England. After he graduated he took over his uncle's business and instantly became the richest and youngest CEO in England. After so many years he returned back to Brazil to visit his parents and attend the yearly elite ball. After that he would go to New York to expand his business and would stay there for a year. But, things turned a little bit different. He didn't went to New York alone. Instead, he had the daughter of Santiago Vargas with him. The most annoying, dramatic, but absolutely beautiful girl he had ever met. He couldn't stand her tantrums and drama. And she wasn't willing to change just for him. After all, he was just the guy that was suppose to watch over her. A hot, sexy as sin guy.

Chapters (7)

第1章

Nicole Vargas "That's a lot of money, Nicole!" My dad looked displeased at me as he opened his bank account and saw how much money I had spent. "For all I know, you have everything you need. Why do you need to keep on buying stuff?!" "Papai, I don't!" I muttered looking down at my perfectly polished toes. "It's only sixty-five thousand real." "Only sixty-five thousand! Are you out of your mind?! That's a lot of money!" he seethed angrily. "Give me your credit card. You will not buy anything for the next two weeks!" "But dad...," I whined, tears brimming in my eyes. This can't be happening right now. Not when the big ball approaches. "I need to buy a dress for the elite ball next week. And shoes. And makeup!" "You have a whole store with shoes, clothes, and makeup in your room. You even have three walk-in closets. Choose something you already have." "But it will be so out of style, dad. Please let me use it for this once. I promise I will not spend that much anymore." I pleaded. He shook his head. "You already said that the last time. And all the other five times. You're twenty-three and graduated, how can you still be so irresponsible?" "I'm not irresponsible. I can't help that everything I see is so alluring. It basically calls me to buy it. You know it's hard for me to say no." "Well, you need to learn to say no to all the alluring stuff. Only buy what you need. Now, you are dismissed, I have work to do. You don't get your card back." "But papai---," I cried out. "No arguments Nicole. I already made my decision. You don't know how to spend money, you don't get your credit card back." he said sternly and pointed his finger at the door. "Now, get out of my office, because I need to earn that sixty-five thousand real back." I grunted angrily and stomped out of his office. I was so mad at him. He earns that money every fifteen minutes, I don't see what's the big deal. Next week there's going to be a big ball where all the billionaires and their families are going to be. It's a really fancy and elite ball and now I don't have anything to wear. I walked into my bedroom and angrily started to turn on my music, the volume all the way up. Look what you made me do of Taylor Swift blasted in my room and probably through the whole penthouse. "What is wrong with you, Nicole?" My mom yelled above the music as she barged into my room. "Why are you throwing another tantrum?" I turned the volume down and huffed. "Dad took away my credit card." "You spent so much money in three days. What did you expect?" She placed her hands on her hips and cocked an eyebrow. "Don't take his side." "Of course I will. You graduated Bachelor of Arts in Fashion Design. Do something with that degree and earn your own money." I rolled my eyes and plopped down on my king-sized bed. I love Fashion and I loved the field I majored in, but I wasn't feeling to work in Brazil anymore. Everyone knows me, since my dad is the CEO of Brazil's most popular hotel and casino chains. The Vargas. They would only give me the job because I was his daughter and not because of my degree. My dad also asked me a million times why I didn't want to have my own boutique, he had his connections to make it a reality. How much I really wanted it, I didn't want to achieve my success through my parents. I wanted to do my own thing and be successful on my own. But If I stay longer in Brazil, I can't achieve my dreams and my dad wasn't ready to let me go yet. How much I really annoy him and scare the living hell out of him when he sees the amount of money I spent on my shopping trips, he still loved me unconditionally. "I already told you mamãe, I don't want to open my business here." I sighed, covering my face with my hands. "You know the reason already." "If it's because of papai then it's a really dumb reason. He can't help that he's so well known. Brazil is also a really good place to start your business. You're familiar with the place." Mom reasoned. "It's not only papai. It's also you, you're a popular artist. Your work is displayed in all art museums." I got up from my bed and faced my mom. "And by the way, I want a challenge." My mom shook her head disapprovingly. "Dad will not allow you to go out of the country." "But why?" I just can't understand why he wouldn't let me go. "I'm not a teenager anymore!" "Good Luck explaining that to him." With that, my mom turned around and walked out of my room. I let out an angry growl and threw my pillows on the ground. I was so frustrated and annoyed. My parents treated me like I was a porcelain doll, that needs to be protected every single minute because she's so fragile. But I'm not. I'm not a porcelain doll nor am I twelve. I don't know at what age they will stop treating me like I'm a child. Even when I go for a run, I have to take a bodyguard with me. The place where we live is a high secured neighborhood and you can't enter it without permission. I am their only child and I knew that they wanted the best for me, but this is just too overdone. I twisted and turned on my bed thinking of ways how to convince my dad that I'm a grown-up woman. While the argument of me and my dad played in my head, I fell asleep. I don't know for how long I have slept, but when I woke up it was already dawn. I yawned and stretched out before jumping out of bed. It was already seven pm and dinner would start soon. At day time my parents were rarely home. My dad was at his office and my mom was either working on her painting in the east wing of the penthouse or she was at the museum. The maids and I were the only ones at home. Most of the time I went shopping, golfing, or swimming. But when it was dinnertime we would all be around the table. No excuses. Dinner time was family time. If my dad had a meeting during dinner time, he had to cancel that. Family comes first. I closed the curtains of my window and walked downstairs. The smell of Feijoada entered my nostrils. "Mmmmh." I hummed as I entered the kitchen. Feijoada was my mom's specialty. It was warm rice with a stew of beans with beef and pork. It's commonly prepared in Macau, the place where my mom grew up. My dad was already seated on the dinner table waiting for his food to be served. Even though we were elites, my dad always preferred a meal prepared by his wife. Even for lunch he brought food from home that my mom prepared. "Hey papai," I seated next to him on the round dining table. "I'm sorry about earlier." He just nodded. "Good, you're realizing your mistakes." I smiled stiffly. "So, hmm---," Even though I have asked him this a million times and I know what his answer is going to be, I still keep on asking him. "Can I move to New York, to start my career as a fashion designer." "No!" was his firm answer. "I already told you. I'll not let you out of this country. We don't have anyone in New York who can watch over you." "I don't need anyone to watch over me. I'm twenty-three, not twelve." My mom placed the plates with food on the table and my dad reached over to her and planted a kiss on her cheeks. "It smells delicious, querida. You never fail to amaze me with your cooking." My mom blushed at his compliment. I sighed and started to eat. The food was delicious as always. My mom was good at everything. Painting, cooking, decorating, fashion, and so much more. She was from everything a little bit. Probably that's why my dad fell in love with her. I, on the other hand, was the total opposite of her. The only thing I'm good at is spending money and eating non-stop. "Can I have my credit card back papai," I asked in a small voice. Maybe he realized how important a dress for the ball is and--- "No!" My dad stated. "I have already told you that. Let's not argue about it anymore." "Why are you doing this to me?!" My voice raised an octave. "I'm not twelve, I'm twenty-three for god sake!" "Nicole!" My mom warned sternly. "Then act like you're twenty-three. You are throwing tantrums like a three-year-old." My dad said calmly. I hated when he was acting calm. It made me even more furious. "That's why you should learn to let me go!" I yelled out and stomped out of the room. I was so mad. They are treating me like a child and I can't stand it anymore. I needed freedom. I groaned and kicked my bedroom door shut. What should I do for them to let me go?

第2章

Nicole Vargas "It's so itchy, get it off me!" I yelled out as I fastly unzipped the dress and let it fall on the floor. The rhinestones on this dress were horrible. I don't even know what it was doing in my closet. "But Miss, you wore this last year at the Benefit ball. You weren't complaining." My assistant mumbled as she picked up the dress of the ground. "And we already went through thirty-five dresses. You really need to choose, the ball starts in two hours." I let out a strangled scream as I fall on the ground. This was horrible. I didn't have anything to wear for the ball and yesterday my mom told me that Ethan Gray is also coming to the ball. I haven't seen Ethan in almost five years. After he graduated from high school in Brazil, he moved to England to live with his uncle and aunt. Last year I heard that he was the youngest and most successful CEO in the whole of England. He had quite a reputation there. "Miss!" My assistant looked down at me and shook her head. "You need to hurry up!" "I'm not going." I turned on my stomach and tapped with my fingers on the white marble tiles. I don't want to show up in front of Ethan in the last season dress. That would be so embarrassing. "May I ask why?" I rolled my eyes at that stupid question. Is she blind? "I don't have anything to wear, can't you see?" "You have three closets with all kinds of clothes and dresses. What do you even mean?!" My assistant threw her hands in the air out of frustration. "I told you, the blue one fits you perfectly." "But it's so out of this season." I groaned. "You never wore it, it will not be bad at all. And the dress is one of a kind." "Really?" I asked, looking at my assistant. "I didn't know that." She nodded in confirmation. "Yes, it is one of a kind. That's the only reason you wanted to buy it." My eyes shifted on the beautiful long blue dress on my bed. It was a charming round neck blue tulle one of a kind dress. I stood up and touched the material. It was so soft, better than the one with the awful rhinestones. "Fine." I huffed, turning around to face my assistant. "I'll go." My assistant let out a breath of relief and immediately pushed me in front of my vanity table. "Sit still, I'll do your hair and makeup quickly!." She took a handful of my light brown colored hair and started to comb it fast and hard. I bit on my lips to not yell out of pain. After All, with beauty comes pain. After my hair was done, she worked on my face. I didn't like to have a lot of foundation and primer on, because my face was already smooth enough. I have my own self made face mask that does a wonderful job to keep all the acne away and to keep my face fresh and clean. She sprayed the setting spray in my face and clapped in her hands. "Done, now go put on your dress. You're already fifteen minutes late." "It's called fashionably late." I stood up from the chair and walked over to my king size bed to put on my dress. It fitted me like a glove. "You will be the most beautiful lady at the party!" My assistant hushed excitedly as she spun me around to admire the dress from all different angles and views. "Now, hurry up. The limousine is waiting for you outside!" I grabbed my diamond clutch and stuffed my phone, keys, and hand sanitizer in it and hurriedly walked downstairs followed by my assistant. Dani, my bodyguard was waiting for me at the door. He gave me a curt nod and opened the door for me. I walked outside and stepped in the limousine. During the ride, I fixed and reapplied my makeup. I think I should buy a new setting spray, because this one is doing an awful job. I groaned inwardly as I applied my highlight for the third time. I picked up the phone next to me to call the driver. "Good evening Miss Vargas, how can I help you?" His raspy voice asked as he opened the window so I could see the back of his head. "Is there any cosmetic store open? I need to buy a new setting spray." "I'm sorry Miss, but no. All stores are already closed." "Okay, it's fine I will make this work," I muttered and put the phone down. I looked back in the mirror and finished my makeup. Suddenly the limousine stopped and when I looked outside we were already at the place of destination. Even from outside, I could see that It was crowded with Armani suits and designer dresses. All the rich and first-class people of brazil were here. The door at my side opened and I stepped out. Back straightened, chin high, and smile wide. I walked with confidence to the main entrance of the ballroom. When the security saw me they immediately led me in, because they recognized me as the daughter of brazil's most richest and powerful CEO. When I entered the ballroom, all pairs of eyes were at me. The admiring look on men their faces and the envious look in women their eyes. They were all looking at me as I was making my way towards my parents who were standing in the corner talking to a guy I don't recognize. His back was faced towards me, but I could tell that he was young and handsome. "Hey mamãe, Papai." I greeted with a smile. My mom looked up at me and smiled contently. "You look stunning." My mom smiled at me and took me into a hug. "I'm so glad you came because I want to introduce you to someone who might help you to fulfill your dreams." I scrunched my eyebrows in confusion at the last part. What does she mean? I turned around towards the stranger and my breath almost stopped. I gaped openly as I observed his sharp jaw, chin, and cheekbones. On either side of his straight nose were two blazing hazel eyes. Spiked, warm brown fringed with smooth green. His dark brows were actually graceful but currently furrowed in a frown. He was a few inches taller than me and his tousled dark brown hair was glistening in the moonlight illuminating from the window. He was an eye candy. A total hottie. I didn't realize he was greeting me until my mom nudged me from the side. I instantly came back to my senses. "Good evening Miss Vargas." His voice was deep. He had that rich, silky tone that whenever he spoke, every head in the room would turn. I smiled kindly at him. Showing off my set of white teeth. "Good evening Mr..." I rose up an eyebrow at him because he hadn't introduced himself yet. "Gray," he said with a small smile. "Ethan Gray."

第3章

Nicole Vargas I was still in shock. The handsome stranger was Ethan Gray. Ethan Gray was a handsome stranger. Puberty really did hit him hard. I remembered Ethan as the malnourished little boy with the prettiest hairstyle. The only reason I was infatuated by him at that time was because of his hair. But now, everything changed. He looked like a whole course meal in his expensive Armani suit and Rolex watch he had on. I wondered how rich he actually was. From sources, I could gather that he was the youngest billionaire in England and that he was the CEO of one of the most fast-growing companies. His hazel brown eyes that were shielded with the thickest and lustrous eyelashes I have ever seen on a man stared at me with a mischievous glint. His lips twitched in an arrogant smirk as he saw what for effect he had on me. "So, I was thinking," I looked at my dad as he spoke. "Since Ethan is going to live in New York for a year, I'll put you under his supervision, which means you can go abroad to fulfill your dreams. That's what you want right?" My dad looked at me with a victorious smile as if he just proposed the world's best idea. In fact, it was not. It was the dumbest idea I have ever heard. I shook my head wildly. "No Papai. That is far from what I want. What I want is to go to New York without being under someone's watch. And I don't think Mr. Gray will appreciate my presence. Right Mr. Gray?" Ethan chuckled lightly. "It's Ethan for you Nicole. And for your information, I already approved this idea. Your dad brought it up the moment I told him I will stay in New York for a year." "What?!" I yelled out unbelievably. I can't believe people are making decisions for me behind my back. I am twenty-three for god sake. "I am perfectly capable to make my own decisions! And I'm not going to New York with you." "Then forget ever going to New York!" My dad barked angrily. He calmed down when he saw that people were throwing weird glances at us. "You either go with him or not go at all. It's your choice, Nicole." "I have so many choices, It's you and mom that are limiting it!" I was so angry right now. My mom gave me a stern look but didn't say anything. Instead, she muttered 'spoiled' and 'ungrateful' underneath her breath. "I think your dad's idea is wonderful, Nicole." Ethan butted in which earned him a deadly glare from me. "Stay out of this Ethan! So far I know, I haven't asked for your opinion did I?!" I flipped my hair to the back and turned around. "I'm not going to New York with Ethan, dad! Not because I don't want to, but because you can't keep making decisions for me!" I stormed out of the party without even waiting for his reply. I knew it was not a good idea to come to the ball, but I didn't know it would be this bad. Ethan Gray I had heard so many stories about Nicole and I didn't wanted to believe them. The Nicole I knew was nice, kind, and little. I should have realized that was years ago. When Santiago Vargas asked me if I would like to watch over his daughter I didn't hesitate to say yes. Santiago is a really great man and an amazing businessman. Everyone wanted to do business with him. When he asked me if I would take Nicole to New York and let her live with me for a year until she was able to afford her own place, I agreed instantly. In my head, Nicole was still the innocent little girl I knew before I left brazil. When I saw the drop-dead gorgeous lady approaching Santiago, I couldn't help but think of various ways of getting her into my bed. But when she opened her mouth and greeted Santiago, my heart stopped and I was left shocked. She said Papai. She was the daughter of Santiago. Which means she was Nicole, who once was a cute little girl, but now is a sophisticated woman. She was very beautiful and I'm pretty sure many men would love to have her by their sides. That's why I'm wondering. Is she still single? "I'm sorry about my daughter." Santiago apologized when Nicole stormed out of the party. She was indeed a spoiled brat. Exactly like how the gossip papers described her. Spoiled, sassy, and hard-headed. In short, a drama queen. "She's a handful." Santiago's wife said. She looks exactly like Nicole. Only with a little bit of grey in her hair and wrinkles in her forehead. "But that's why you have two hands, darling." Santiago gave her a stern look and then he shifted his attention back to me. "Nicole really wanted to start her career in New York. Since forever. But you know, I still see her as my little girl and I'll not sleep well knowing she's all alone in a big city. That's why I never send her to New York. So after you've seen her behavior, do you still want to take her with you?" Of course, I didn't like her behavior. She's old enough and she needs to get her act together. But that doesn't mean I will let my old man Santiago down. At his question, I nodded. "Yes, I will. If she still wants to come, because of what I saw... I don't think she wants to go anymore." "Oh don't worry." Santiago's wife said smiling. "We will find a way for her to go. She needs to work and learn the value of money." Santiago nodded in agreement. "She likes to spend money. And a lot too. It's not that I can't afford it. I just don't want her to be a spoiled brat. She's very capable of working and making her own money. And that's what I want for her. I will not be around her entire life to take care of her." "Don't worry. I will bring her to New York and introduce her to people who can help her achieve her dreams. I will leave tomorrow evening, so make sure she has everything packed by tomorrow afternoon." "You're leaving so soon?" Santiago's wife asked disappointedly. "We were thinking of having you over for dinner." "My apologies. But there's a lot of work waiting for me in New York." "I understand," Santiago said. "I'll make sure Nicole has everything packed by tomorrow. Do we need to bring her to Gray Private airport?" I shook my head. "I'll pick her up." "Thank you very much Ethan. I know my daughter will be in good hands with you." Will she though? I asked myself. She's a very gorgeous woman. I shook my head to get all the wild thoughts out. She's a drama queen. A sassy, spoiled, with a hell lot of attitude girl. Not my type. Never my type. Except for her beautiful body everything about her screams drama queen and trouble. I took a deep breath. I can do this. It's only for one year.

第4章

Nicole Vargas "I don't want to stay with Ethan for a year. Can I at least have my own apartment?" I looked with pleading eyes at my parents. This is such a great opportunity, but I don't want to stay under the same roof with Ethan. It's not that I don't trust him, it's just that I don't trust myself. Seeing him after so many years made me realize how much he actually grew as a person. And not only in knowledge but also in body parts. "No, you are going to stay with Ethan. He has a big mansion in New York, you will not have to see him every day. The least you can do is cook for him." My mom stood at the doorway in her pink fluffy bathrobe. Her hair was tied in a messy bun and she had a green facemask on and a Starbucks in her hand. "Cook?" I stared at them as if they grew two horns. My dad stood next to my mom, dressed in his suit, ready to go to work. He was constantly looking at his watch while arguing with me. "Yes, cook." He said. "He is already kind enough to let you stay in his mansion for a year. Be nice and make something to eat for him once in a while. I didn't raise a spoiled little brat." "But I can't cook. He's so rich, it's no luxury to hire a cook." I can't believe Ethan didn't have a cook. What did he eat then? Takeout? "He likes to prepare his food himself, so help him. Do some chores and whatnot. This is a chance for you Nicole. Don't waste it. It's only for a year, after that you can live wherever you want." My mom sipped on her Starbucks and it made the annoying sound, I couldn't stand. "Ughh!!" I growled and plopped down on my bed. "Do I need to remind you that I'm already an adult and that I can make my own decisions?" "Nicole!" My dad was getting impatient. "I know you're an adult, but you're also my only child. And god forbid if something happens to you. I'll never forgive myself. You don't know New York City, you never went there. So please, take my advice and live with Ethan so you're not alone. You will learn from him and it will benefit you somewhere in the future." I let out a deep sigh. My dad was not completely wrong. And it will be just for a year. I can do it. I can live under the same roof with Ethan Gray without crushing on him. Maybe he even has a girlfriend, that would be much easier for me to keep my distance from him. "What time will he pick me up?" A smile crept on my mom's face. "He'll be here in three hours, so you better hurry up." Three hours? How the hell am I going to pack in three hours? I jumped out of bed and grabbed my suitcases from underneath my bed. I called my assistant to come and help me. It was urgent I said, since it was her day off. When my assistant came she started packing so I could take a long bath. I poured some champagne in a glass and stepped into the bathtub that was filled with roses. I grabbed a bath bomb and put it in the water. So restful and refreshing. I stayed in there for a while and after that I put on my bathrobe so I could do my makeup and hair. I straightened my hair and applied a minimum of makeup. I don't like to get all dolled up especially when I'm traveling. I sprayed some setting spray on my face and walked out of the bathroom. "I already packed everything that you asked me too, do you need anything else?" My assistant asked. I shook my head and dismissed her. I can do the rest myself. I changed into some comfy traveling clothes and walked downstairs to make myself a smoothie. My mom probably went to the art gallery, because I didn't see her car in the garage. When I entered the kitchen, Carolina, our housemaid was cleaning the kitchen counter. "Nicole, I've heard you're leaving today," she said, turning around and hitting me with the duster in the process. "Ugh! Linaa!" I groaned annoyed. "Watch out and yes, I'm moving to New York today." "Ahh, so it's true. You're going with Mr Gray?" She winked at me and I rolled my eyes. She did her 'stalking' I see because otherwise she wouldn't know that Ethan turned into a greek god. "Yes, I actually have to live with him for an entire year. Thanks to my parents." I said, sarcasm dripping from my voice. "It will not be that bad, anyway I made your favorite smoothie. It's in the fridge." I opened the fridge and saw a glass with my favorite strawberry-yogurt smoothie. "Thanks Lina." She smiled at me and continued cleaning the kitchen. I walked back upstairs with my smoothie. Ethan should arrive soon. I did some last-minute packing, clean my room up, and put all my bedding and dirty clothes in the laundry room. After I was done I heard a horn outside. "Nicole! Mr. Gray is here to pick you up!" Lina yelled from downstairs. "Can you help me with my luggage?!" I yelled back. "Tell Vincent and Martinez too!" Moments later Carolina, Vincent, and Martinez all helped me to bring my stuff downstairs. When I entered the living room Ethan stood there with his hands in his pockets. He wore a navy blue shirt with brown khaki pants. His hair was damp and messy, which gave him the 'I just woke up, but I still look hot' look. His eyes. His eyes turned big when I entered the room. And not because of me. He stared at my luggage, opened his mouth and closed it again. I don't know why he is so surprised. It was only eight suitcases and four carry-ons. I will be staying for a year, what did he expect? "Those are not going to New York." He said after a while, and pointed at my stuff. "What do you mean?" I asked. "What do I have to wear?" "Two suitcases are more than enough, not a bajillion of them." "You're exaggerating Mr. Gray. It's only eight!" I replied annoyed. His lips turned into a scowl. "I think that since you're going to live with me it's safe to call me Ethan. And no, we're not taking eight suitcases to New York. It's too much." "What am I supposed to wear then, Ethan!" "He's right, Nicole. That's way too much." My dad's voice came from behind me. "I'll give you a credit card. You don't need so much stuff." I rolled my eyes. "Why didn't you say that earlier?" "But..." My mom appeared from behind my dad. "There's only a limited amount of money in it." "What!" I yelled out. "What do you mean?" "It means, you can only use it in emergency situations." My dad clarified. "But...but every day is an emergency situation. What am I supposed to wear?" "Maybe you should learn how to wash your clothes and wear it again." My mom rolled her eyes and blow her fingernails. I didn't get my attitude from a stranger. I scrunched up my nose. What the hell? "That's so old-fashioned!" "That's not old fashioned, it's normal! And I don't want to argue with you anymore. Take it or leave it!" I groaned out frustrated, I know I'm not going to win this argument. "UGH! FINE!" "Are you ready to go?" Ethan asked. "Choose the suitcase you want to bring." I pointed angrily at two suitcases and one carry on and Vincent brought it to the car for me. I turned around to my parents. "Uhm, okay goodbye. Thank you for this torture I guess." My dad sighed. "It's not torture, it's a---" "I know, I know." I hugged him and then my mom. After the goodbyes I walked to the car and Ethan was already waiting for me. I stepped in and sat down next to Ethan and let out a deep sigh as the driver turned on the engine. This is going to be one hell of a year. Let's just hope I'll not fall in love with the person sitting next to me.

第5章

Nicole Vargas We arrived late at night in New York. The flight was very pleasant. Ethan didn't even bother to have a conversation with me, instead, he was busy on his laptop most likely doing his work. A sleek black car stopped in front of the private jet. Ethan opened the door for me while he was on the phone and ushered me inside. I stepped in and he closed the door behind me. The car then started to drive away and I looked confused at the driver. "Why isn't Ethan coming with us?" I asked, tapping him on his shoulders. "Mr. Gray needs to attend a meeting tomorrow morning in Arizona. I thought he had informed you." The driver said, looking at me through the rearview mirror. I shook my head. "He didn't, where am I going now?" "He gave me instructions to bring you to his mansion where his maid will show you around." I nodded my head and leaned back in the soft leather seat. I looked outside and let out a contented sigh. New York is so beautiful at night. So many people, lights, cars, no wonder it's called the city that never sleeps. Moments later we arrived at the mansion. The guard opened the huge black gate with the Gray name engraved on it in gold and the first thing I saw was the beautiful garden and fountain. My eyes almost fell out of my socket when I saw how big the mansion was. It was not even a mansion, it was a castle. I can't believe Ethan lives here alone. The car stopped in front of a huge glass door and I could see an old lady approaching the car. The driver opened the door for me and I stepped out. "Good evening, Miss Vargas." The old lady greeted and extended her hand at me. I smiled kindly at her and shook her hand. "I'm Lila and I take care of Mr. Gray's mansion. If you follow me, I'll show you your room." She walked back inside the house and I followed her. When I entered the inside of the mansion the first thing I saw is the tallest ceiling ever, lovely crown molding, a table in the center, and two flights of spiral staircases going up to the second floor. There was a huge silver chandelier in the middle of the ceiling and there were colorful paintings on the wall. "Does Mr. Gray live here alone?" I asked Lila. We walked up the stairs and from up here I could see part of the kitchen and living room. In the middle of the living room I saw a black piano. "Yes, his family often come here in summer and during the holidays. They have a ranch in the backyard." "A ranch?" Lila nodded her head. "Yes, there is a ranch in the backyard with three horses. I will show you around tomorrow or any day you're free." We came into a space with huge doors on either side of the hallway. I guess that behind these doors is the bedrooms. The doors to the rooms are carved with an eight-panel design. She stopped in front of a huge door and opened it. "This is your room, Miss." I stepped into the room a small gasp left my mouth. The room contained a queen-sized bed, a vanity table, a white feathery carpet that felt like it was made in heaven, a flat-screen tv, a fireplace, a walk-in closet, and a bathroom. It was a thousand times better than my room in Brazil. Now I wonder, how did Ethan become so rich? Yes, he took the business over of his uncle, but from what I heard the business wasn't really that stable. I rubbed my fingers along the silken mattress. The comforter was thick and irresistibly soft, like a billowing cloud. "Miss, do you want me to bring your food to your room or are you going to come downstairs?" I heard Lila ask behind me. I turned around and saw that my stuff was already placed in my room. "I'll come downstairs," I said. She nodded her head. "Great, dinner will be ready in a half-hour." With that she quietly closed the door, leaving me alone behind in my new room. I sat down on the bed and took a deep breath. I was so overwhelmed by everything. I couldn't believe Ethan had a ranch. My heart made a happy dance when Lila said that. Since I was a teenager, I rode and took care of horses. It was my hobby until my dad decided to sell Arrow, my chestnut Arabian horse. I was so heartbroken. I was only seventeen and I had that horse since I was twelve. I won competitions with her and it was so hard for me to sell her. My dad sold her to a Costa Rican man, who took interest in her when she won the last race in Rio. After that, I've never ride another horse anymore. It took me forever to get over Arrow. I stood up from my bed and went into the bathroom. I took a quick shower, wore a white dress with flowers embroidery on it, and put my hair up in a messy bun. I applied my face mask and studied my face in the mirror. My whole face was covered in white cream and it smelled like honey and cucumbers. I waited until it dried a little bit and then made my way downstairs to get some food. I like to have my facemask as long as possible on my face because my face is very sensitive if it comes to traveling and stress. If I travel, I often get dry skin or sometimes I even get pimples or wrinkles. I passed the living room and saw the piano from close up. It was so pretty and I wondered if Ethan could play the piano. It would be nice though to wake up to some Beethoven every morning. I entered the kitchen and Lila was standing with her back towards me, doing the dishes. "Hey Lila." I greeted and took a seat on the barstool. She turned around and let out a shriek. "Goodness!" She yelled out, placing her hand over her chest. "What is that on your face?" "Oh." I forgot that I had a facemask on. "It's a face mask." "Goodness, you scared the crap out of me." She chuckled nervously. "You can choose whatever you want to eat, everything is still warm." I looked at the table and there was indeed a variety of food choices. There was Ravioli, Salmon, shrimp pasta, lasagna, teriyaki, lime chicken, mushroom risotto, and mini meatloaves. For dessert, there were cupcakes and red velvet cake. "That's a lot of food," I remarked as I took a plate and fill it with lasagna and ravioli. "Are there other people coming?" Lila shook her head. "No, Mr. Gray likes to have... choices." Choices? This doesn't sound like the Ethan Gray I knew from a couple of years ago. This was a whole different Ethan Gray. And although I'm not here to become close with him, there's a part of me that's dying to get to know him better. "Does Mr. Gray has a girlfriend?" I asked as I took a seat on the dinner table. "That, I don't know. He never brought one home, but if you listen to gossips it is rumored that he's dating Veronika Morozov." "The Russian model?" I raised my eyebrows. He did have a good choice, Veronika Morozov is one hell of a pretty girl. "Yes, she. But she's a golddigger. His family doesn't approve of her." Lila said. "She came here to New York for a Charity, so I only met her one time. She's very... vain. She thinks she's better than everyone else." "Oh." was all I could say. "Well, if he loves her then uhm... I don't think his family can do anything about that right. Love is love. You're basically blind until you break up." Lila chuckled. "I just think they use each other to get attention. Don't worry, you still got a chance with him." "What?!" I choked out. "No, I'm not into him... at all." "Umhu." Lila said giving me a smug smirk, but turned around and walked out of the kitchen leaving me all baffled behind. I don't actually like him, do I?

第6章

Nicole Vargas I woke up when sun rays kissed my face. I let out a yawn and stretched out. The bed felt like heaven and I had a really good sleep. I'm so excited about today because I got to see the rest of the mansion, including the ranch. I quickly went to take a shower and while I was still blow-drying my hair, I heard a soft knock on my door. "Come in!" I yelled, assuming it was Lila with breakfast. I was starving and couldn't wait to eat some of Lila's delicious food. "Good morning." I froze instantly when I heard the voice. I turned around and my eyes turned wide like saucers. "Ethan? I thought you were in Arizona?" Ethan was standing in front of my doorway dressed in a black Armani suit. His hair was neatly combed and his hazel-green eyes were scanning my room. He looked so handsome like he just stepped out of a photoshoot. "I just arrived. The meeting was this morning." "It's still morning," I said rolling my eyes. He raised his eyebrows up in amusement. "Are you sure about that? It's already in the afternoon, princess." I put my blow dryer down and checked my phone. Damn, he was right. It was already passed twelve in the afternoon. "Oh." "Yes, Oh. Anyways, I just want to let you know. Lila is not always here. She only cooks occasionally, most of the time I make my own food." "Why?" I asked in disbelief. I still can't believe, he didn't have a cook. "She told me last night you like to have choices. She prepared so much food." Ethan rolled his eyes. "Her cooking is delicious, so that's why I ask her to do that. And it's part of her job, she gets paid for it. But that only happens like once or twice in a month." "Why not every day? You are loaded!" I can't believe it. He can afford everything and he still chooses to cook on his own. I don't know where he gets the time to do that. "Because I am capable of cooking for myself! Now, I already had breakfast and lunch. There are eggs, bread, vegetables, etcetera in the kitchen. Just go take a look and see what you can do." "What?! What do you mean?" I asked wide-eyed. He isn't asking me to cook my own food right? "Ethan, I cannot cook!" "You can't even prepare brunch?!" He yelled out in disbelief. "Of course not!" I said, rolling my eyes. I never cooked. Ever. It was either Carolina or my mom. Mostly my mom. "That's not my job." "Well, here it will be unless you want to starve to death." He said. "But I cannot cook!" I huffed annoyed. Can't he understand? "Then you will learn. There's youtube and google. Use it!" Ethan turned around and walked out of my room. I let out an annoyed groan. This will definitely turn into a disaster. Youtube and google or not helpful if it comes to me and cooking. I combed my hair and applied moisturizer for my face and walked downstairs, to the kitchen. The kitchen was clean except for the sink. There was an empty plate with bread crumbs in it, which I'm guessing is from Ethan. I opened the fridge and saw eggs, juice, bacon, and vegetables. I stand in front of the fridge for a while and decided to make some scrambled eggs. I saw my mom making it a couple of times so I hope I'll not mess it up. I looked around in the kitchen. I found the frying pan and the spatula in the dishwasher. I placed the frying pan on the stove and it took me a good ten minutes to figure out how to turn it on. Then I poured some oil in the pan. It made a hissing sound. Oops, I accidentally poured too much oil in the pan. Now it looks like I'm going to make soup. I hope it's not bad. I broke the eggs and it immediately went into the pan. Suddenly the whole kitchen was filled with smoke. What the hell?! How did that happen?! I coughed and grabbed the towel to throw it over the pan to stop the smoke from coming. The whole towel went up in flames. What the hell! Shit! I forgot the stove was already on. Oh god! Oh god! The fire alarm started to go off and that's when I started to panic! "Oh god! Help! Help!" I yelled out trying to get out of the kitchen, but the only thing I could see was smoke, smoke, and more smoke. What if no one hears me? I yelled louder. "Help! Oh god! Help!" "What the fuck happened here?!" Ethan appeared out of nowhere with a fire extinguisher and immediately extinguished the fire. He opened the windows in the kitchen so the smoke could go away. "What the hell were you trying to do?" "Cook?" I replied in a small voice. I was still shaking and coughing. I grabbed the dining table for support because my knees were shaking badly. "Cook?! You were trying to put my kitchen on fire!" He said raucous and climbed on the kitchen counter to turn off the fire alarm. When the kitchen was finally cleared, he looked at the pan on the stove. "Were you trying to make soup in a pan?" "Of course not! I'm not that dumb! I accidentally poured too much oil in the pan. I wanted to make scrambled eggs." "Scrambled eggs?! You almost burned my kitchen down because of scrambled eggs?! You seriously need some cooking classes!" He snapped while placing the pan in the sink. "I told you I couldn't cook!" I yelled out angrily. Tears were brimming in my eyes. No one ever yelled at me. "Why are you so mean?!" "Goddamit Nicole! I'm not mean! You can't even make scrambled eggs? That's a fucking shame!" Ethan turned the water on and looked back at me annoyed, angry, and pissed. Now I felt so attacked. Who the hell does he think he is? He's only supposed to watch after me and here he is insulting me. "You have no right to insult me Ethan!" I screamed, tears falling down my cheeks. God, I hated that I cry when I'm angry. I walked out of the kitchen and hurried back to my room. I was so angry that he yelled at me for something I couldn't do. I warned him already and he still didn't listen to me. I sat on the bed and sobbed softly. I was starving, but I didn't want to go downstairs and face Ethan anymore. I was so angry with him. Maybe I could go to the ranch. I slipped on my shoes and quietly sneaked out of the mansion. I could still hear that Ethan was in the kitchen doing god knows what. The ranch smelled so fresh, I could hear the soft snorting from the horses. I felt so at peace here. I walked into the horse barn and I could see three beautiful Arabian horses. My eyes widened as I saw the horse on the far left. "Arrow." How did she end up with Ethan as her owner?

第7章

Ethan Gray I can't believe it! I just can't believe it. Nicole cannot cook AT ALL. When she told me that she had no idea how to cook, I was positive that if she would watch some youtube videos she would be able to at least know how to do the basic stuff. Like scrambling an egg for example. But no. Instead, she almost burned the kitchen down. I was not worried about the kitchen at all, I was worried about her. What if I wouldn't be there to save her? Oh god, the thought of it only. I felt so bad for yelling at her. I was so mad because she had to be more careful if it comes to cooking. I placed the freshly baked blueberry scones on a plate and poured orange juice in a glass. I never prepared breakfast for anyone in my entire life except for myself and here I am doing it for Nicole. I couldn't stand her tears, I should have been more understanding. When I saw her tears something inside me snapped. I felt so guilty and was about to apologize, but she ran out of the kitchen before I could do so. She's not used to this life. She cannot cook even if her life depends on it. I took the tray with food to her room. I couldn't stand the thought of her not eating. Even though I'm angry at her for not being careful enough, that's not an excuse to let her starve. The door to her room was ajar. I knocked twice, but when I didn't hear anything I opened it wide and there was no one inside. "Nicole?!" I called out, looking around in the room. Maybe she's in the bathroom, but the door to the bathroom was wide open. "Nicole, where are you?" Where the hell could she be? I walked back downstairs to see if she's in the living room, but it was also empty. "Nicole!" I let out a deep sigh and walked to the backyard to see if she's at the pool. God forbid if something happens to her. She hasn't eaten yet, what the hell could she be possibly doing now? Isn't she starving? The pool was empty. There was no one there. I was about to walk inside when I saw that the gate of the fence that lead to the ranch was open. What the hell? No one ever goes to the ranch except for the gardener if he has to feed the horses. And that happened early this morning. I placed the tray with food on the table next to me and wore my shoes. I hurriedly walked over to the ranch. Maybe the gardener forgot to close the gate. When I came closer to the ranch I heard the soft snorting of the horses and another voice. A female one. "Nicole?" I looked at the brown-haired Brazilian girl who was hugging Spencer, one of the Arabian horses. Her eyes were swollen and still teary. "What are you doing here?" My uncle builds this ranch three years ago for his niece Florence, but now she's married and her husband had a ranch. The only time when she visit now is during summer and the holidays. "I heard from Lila that there was a ranch and I really wanted to see it." Nicole croaked out as she caressed Spencer on her head. "I thought she was Arrow." "Arrow?" I asked confused. Who the hell is Arrow and why did she think Spencer was Arrow? "Yes, I had a horse named Arrow when I was younger. My dad sold her to a Costa Rican man and she looks a lot like Arrow, but..." Nicole paused and took a handful of Spencer's mane in her hand. "If you look closely this one has a blonde mane. Arrow didn't." Her voice was soft, it sounded sad and heartbroken. "Did Arrow meant a lot to you?" I asked as I walked closer to her. "Her name is Spencer by the way." "Spencer." She whispered. The horse immediately looked up to her. "She's very beautiful. And to answer your question. Yes, Arrow meant a lot to me. We won competitions together." "Really? That's very impressive." I was blown away at what she told me. I couldn't believe that she, the drama queen, won horse riding competitions. You would think that someone like her would be into beauty contest and all that sort of stuff. But I guess Nicole is full of surprises. "Yeah, but when he sold Arrow I never did horse riding anymore. It took me very long to get over Arrow. Is Spencer yours?" She asked. I shook my head. "Nope, It's my uncle's, but if you want you can ride her. She's very good. She won various competitions in Monte Carlo." Her eyes lit up and she shifted her attention back to Spencer. "Really? Wow...Mmh, Spencer maybe we should go for a ride. What do you think?" Spencer whinnied and Nicole chuckled. She looked back at me. "Where's the gear?" "I will show you that later, will you come eat first?" I asked, remembering that she hasn't eat yet. She lowered her eyes and turned her back at me. "I cannot cook Ethan, get it into your thick skull. I will go out later to grab myself something. Don't you worry." I heaved a long sigh. "I... I made blueberry scones for you." She immediately turned around and her eyes turned wide. "You did what?" I cleared my throat and repeated, "If I wasn't clear enough, I made breakfast for you. So you better go back to the mansion and eat before it turns cold." "Seriously, you didn't had to do it.. I---," I placed my finger on her lips and she immediately stopped talking. Damn, those felt really soft. I quickly removed my finger from her lips, before any other thoughts would make its way to my mind. "Go eat, Nicole. It's not healthy to skip brunch." She gulped. "Fine, where is it?" She followed me back to the mansion. I had put the tray with food on the table next to the pool. Her eyes immediately fell on the scones and juice on the tray. "Wow, they look delicious." "And they are too." She smiled up at me. A cute small smile. She looked so cute and adorable when she smiled. "Thank you." She took a bite of the scone and let out a small moan. "It's so good!" I chuckled and sat down next to her. I put my phone next to the tray and picked a scone and ate with her. "Where did you learn how to cook?" She asked. "My aunt back in England taught me. She majored in culinary and she also makes wedding cakes." I told her. "Uhm, I also want to apologize for what happened earlier. I should have listened to you when you told me you couldn't cook." She shrugged. "It's fine. I mean it's embarrassing isn't it? But for me it's normal. I have been treated like a princess my entire life. I don't expect other people to treat me any less." I rolled my eyes. Here's the Nicole, that I know. Our conversation got interrupted when my phone started ringing. Since the brightness of my phone was on a hundred percent, the name of the caller, was flashing brightly for Nicole to see it. Veronika.