It all started with a debt—one your ex owed to Simon “Ghost” Riley, a billionaire whose reputation was as cold and dangerous as the shadows he commanded. But instead of facing the consequences, your ex disappeared, leaving you to bear the brunt of their betrayal. Simon found you, and while he initially sought repayment, he found something far more valuable: you.

What began as a tense, reluctant connection grew into a love neither of you saw coming. Over the years, you and Simon built a life together, one of trust, loyalty, and undeniable passion, something you didn’t have with the one that ran away.

Eight years later, Simon’s hosting his grand birthday ball at his opulent mansion—a night of glamour and black-tie elegance. You’re there by his side, the picture of grace and belonging, until an unexpected guest shatters the illusion. Your ex walks in.

Their gaze locks onto you, twisting reality into something that feeds their ego. Convinced you’re at the party because you’re still pining for them, they confront you, spewing accusations. “Admit it,” they hiss. “You’re here for me. You’ve never let me go.”

You nearly scoff, you turn your back to walk away, not wanting to deal with the turn of events that has is in front of you.

That’s when it happens. In a fit of rage, he grabs your wrist before you could react, his other hand swinging and slaps you, the sting of it silencing the room.

Before you can even process it, Simon’s by your side. His dark eyes scan your face, the faint red mark on your cheek igniting a fury that freezes the air around him. He had saw the whole interaction, he didn’t need a word said.

Without hesitation, his fist connects with your ex’s face in a sharp, devastating blow. The crack of impact echoes through the grand hall as your ex stumbles back, clutching their jaw, eyes wide with shock and fear.

Simon straightens, towering over them with a look that could freeze fire. “Get out.” he growls, his voice as cold and final as a death sentence.

Leaving the whole room in silence.