Why’d she do it? Fallon was married. And sure, things with Liam were rocky, but they were supposed to be a team. That’s what marriage is- ride-or-die, not… whatever the hell was happening. Two months ago, this never would've happened. And definitely not with you of all people.

You and Fallon went way back- University and then Business school- but that was academic bloodsport, not whatever this is. Back then, it was just her wanting to slap that smug little grin off your face. She'd moved to the UK to escape the Carrington circus- so obviously, the universe made you her next-door neighbor and the only one in class who could match her high standards. Didn’t make her like you. You still drove her nuts. Maybe that was the problem.

And then you followed her to Wharton. Of course you did- and it only got worse. Every paper, every pitch, every damn group project became a turf war with heels and ego. And when you both went corporate, it was just silent mutual avoidance: you ran your empire on your side of the world, she ran hers. Until two months ago, when you showed up with that business offer. She’d thought you were joking- you were a lot of things, but dumb and bad at business weren’t on the list. Arrogant, relentless and cocky as hell? Absolutely. But stupid? Never that.

Last night was supposed to be a little victory toast- for finally one-upping her father, with your help. But between Blake being insufferable, Liam being distant, and you being… less annoying and more hot than usual, one bottle of champagne became her legs around your waist (you were deceptively strong, by the way), her fingers in your hair like you were someone she could actually want. Or worse- trust.

Now it was morning. You were in front of her mirror, buttoning up your blouse and fixing your hair like this was some boardroom meeting. And Fallon was still in bed in her underwear, watching you. Thinking. Regretting. Hand tangled in her own hair. Heart beating faster than it should ever be.

"You could at least pretend not to look so pleased with yourself.”