. She strikes back.

NEW YORK CITY–. MARINO EMPIRE.

Logan’s Point Of View ~

The grand elite auction would commence anytime from now. Alighting from my car, I glanced at my wristwatch to check the time. I will finally have the chance to meet the new CEO of the Imperial Company at this gathering today. I’ve approached them about partnering, but they haven’t accepted my offer. Given the excellent standing of my company and my stellar reputation, I anticipate that they will accept my offer right away.

A forced grin tugged at my lips as I cast a glance at the gigantic Marino Empire which towered over the other buildings beside it. Parts of the building had gold plaster applied to them, and the walls were composed of sturdy glass. The courtyard was lined with posh, expensive cars, and there were uniformed guards stationed at strategic locations like statues. The entire place screamed wealth as only highly reputable people visited it..

“Logan, you must get me that Hope diamond at the auction today. I’ve been craving to have that for years..” Vivian chirped happily as she held my outstretched hands and alighted from the car. I smiled at her, not giving her a reply.

Together, we made our way into the opulent hall as confidently as possible. Vivan kept walking at a slow pace on the red carpet, careful not to trip on her three-inch black stilettos. Vibrant lights bathed the entrance in a mesmerizing kaleidoscope of colors, reflecting the pulsating energy that emanated from within. Live music instantly spilled through the silent hallway and we darted our eyes at every smiling face in the hall.

Paparazzi swarm around us to take several shots of us. I’m not shocked to see that our entrance had garnered so much attention, all thanks to my reputation and popularity in the business sector. My company manufactures one of the greatest male accessories. I also own one of the best fashion houses in the city. Partnering with a top elite company like Imperial will broaden my horizon and help my business scopes.

As we made our way to our seat, Vivian tapped me and squealed excitingly.

“What is it?” I asked with raised brows.

“Logan, that’s the Hope diamond necklace. Take a look at it shining in its own brilliance inside that box. I want you to be the highest bidder, Logan. it mustn’t belong to someone else,” she added, and I shifted my gaze to the huge glass box which contained the necklace, one of the classiest and expensive necklaces in the world.

It was a highly anticipated jewelry and I know that a number of people are vying for it today. Everything about the jewelry speaks quality. It was a deep blue diamond, stubbed in a pendant, Toison d’or with a dark grayish blue color under ordinary light because of trace amounts of boron within its crystal structure. It’s definitely f**g expensive, but I’ll try to get it to make Vivian happy.

“Heard there’s a notable guest tonight..” Martin, my friend, spoke after swilling some wine.

“Who?” I asked curiously.

“The new CEO of imperial holdings. I heard she will be joining the auction tonight..”

My face brightened up with enthusiasm at what he said. I had been eagerly anticipating this moment as well. Glancing at several elite people in the hall, I smiled confidently as I straightened my suit, giving an air of perfection.

As soon as the host came out from backstage, the auction began.

“Please take note that St. Hopkins Hospital and orphanage home will receive half of the proceeds from this auction, naturally with the presence of Dr. Henry Norman, the current director.”

The high-pitched voice of a woman wearing a crimson gown and golden jewelry echoed across the hall as she grabbed the microphone. She gave the microphone to the event’s MC, a man dressed in a white suit.

The auction began with the display of certain jewelries, which shimmered in their own uniqueness. First was the Golden gem.. a type of jewelry that appears to have been crafted from a combination of gold and gem. Bidding started at $300,000 and went up to $800,000. The bidding went on until a thin man wearing blazers paid a million dollars for it.

“Alright! This is the next one! The first bid is for $500,000“Alright! The next one is this! The bidding starts at $500,000!” The MC announced, grabbing our attention to the silvery jewelry in his hand..

Each piece was brought outside one by one. Each recipient of an auction object is required to sign an ownership and contract at the administration office. A few more objects were on show, and my friend Martin acquired an antique Leonardo da Vinci picture for himself.

When the last piece arrived after considerable bidding, everyone started to pay attention. The big glossy box with the Hope diamond necklace within captured our whole attention. Many have not placed a bid yet, as they are holding out to bid on the last item of jewelry. The Hope diamond necklace.

It reminded me of how pricey it was as it glistened in my eyes.. I gulped down the lump in my throat as Vivian clutched my arm.

“Come on, Logan. We can’t let this go. We won’t lose it to someone else, right?” The smile on her face exceeded her ears. Her smile vanished as soon as she saw I was silent.

I took a deep breath and replied, “Yes. I will get it for you..”..

“Okay.. For the Hope diamond necklace, the price begins at a million dollars!” The MC announced and my heart plummeted to my stomach. A million dollars for a start made me cringe. It’s definitely going to be competitive since there are a lot of bidders wanting to get it.

“$1.2 million dollars!”

“$1.5 million dollars!” A fat man with beards yelled as he got on his feet, darting his eyes at every face to see if anyone would challenge him.

“$2 million dollars!” Another voice erupted in the audience.

“Going! Going—”

“$4 million dollars!” I exclaimed as I got on my feet while Vivian squealed happily, trying to contain her excitement.

My face beamed with pride when I see no one else challenging me.

“$8 Million Dollars!” a young Italian man exclaimed, smirking as he got on his feet, causing the audience to release audible gasps. Vivian bit her lips as she glanced at me, wanting me to challenge him.

As the bid arose, I didn’t stop. We were halfway getting it and the only competitor I had was Mr Vincenzo, a famous designer in Italy and the US.

Vincenzo’s gaze lingered on mine, and a smirk pulled at the sides of his lips.

“$15 million dollars!” He announced.

Vivian held my hands, her eyes widening like saucers. “Don’t let it go away, Logan. I need this badly..” she implored, shifting her gaze to the sparkling diamond necklace.

“$20 million!” I said with a confident smile, my eyes shimmering with an undiluted pride.

People gasped, and I saw Martin’s eyes sprang wide. Vivian bit her lips, staring at Vincenzo with so much attention. She was inwardly praying for him to give up. It was purely evident in her face.

“$20 million dollars! Going! Going!” The MC announced, staring at the audience.

Vincenzo made the surrender sign by keeping his hand in his pocket. At that, Vincenzo returned to his seat, and Vivian got up to hug me.

“I know you will do this. I know you’ll surely make me proud, Logan. I love you!”

“We have a winner for tonight, then. The precious Hope diamond necklace worn by the Great Queen Elizabeth goes to—-”

“$100 million dollars!!” a voice erupted from behind, grabbing everyone’s attention. Loud gasps filled the entire hall and my brows creased as I whipped my head in the direction of the voice.

My gaze settled on a lady cladded in an exceptionally white, pristine suit that did justice to the well-endowed curves of her body. A smirk appeared on her ruby lips as soon as she locked eyes with me. Her every stride in those white pointy heels exuded poise and remarkable confidence that had the hairs on my skin rising. She walked calmly to the podium, her heels clacking on the white tiles of the stage.

“--- is now sold to the lady in White! Let us celebrate her!” The MC announced before giving her a handshake.

I stood still, my eyes wide as I took in her appearance. Her gaze lingered on mine and I felt my heart racing and thudding frantically against my ribcage.

My body froze in a position, unable to move, react, or even escape eye contact.

This is none other than Emily. Her gaze intensified, confirming my suspicions.

Standing before me was the one person I thought I'd never see again. She appeared so stunning and exceedingly beautiful. Everything about her exuded wealth. Her smile was captivating, her presence was magnetic, and her words exuded elegance.

My eyes were fixed on hers, but she tried not to acknowledge them as she averted them away from me. It's like she's consumed every corner in my mind. I couldn't avoid replaying our past encounters and the unresolved tension that clung between us.

The MC grabbed the mic and said, “Like I mentioned earlier, there will be a special guest tonight. We’re aware that her shocking entrance bawled our lungs out. No one expected that she’d be a part of the bidders. I’ll give her a moment to introduce herself. Let’s clap our hands as she prepares to give her speech.”

My heart dropped to my stomach when she revealed her identity as the New CEO of the imperial company. I snagged my fingers into my hair, finding it unbelievable. My mind feels like it is stricken and my heart is pounding like a tsunami.

Emily became a CEO of a very famous jewel company.. Damn! Am I dreaming?!

“Logan.. this.. this is Emily. She’s back! But how and when did she become rich?!” Vivian asked, staring at me with wide eyes. My heart raced and my gaze lingered on Emily as she left the stage after her speech. I was completely confused and restless. She even had her name changed to Emerald.

My worst fears came when I saw Collin, my business rival, walking up to Emily. He kissed her and clutched her hands passionately, causing my heart to drop to my stomach.

I gulped down the lump in my throat and my eyes went round like saucers.

Are they dating? How long had Emily known Collins?! How did she become the CEO of the imperial company??

I balled my fists and gritted my teeth, my mind was tense at the moment. It was like a silent conversation with myself, avoiding the inevitable question that needed to be addressed.

Shit! This is crazy! This is damn crazy!

“According to legible sources…these two are dating, Mr. Logan. I just confirmed from the internet,” Martin whispered in my ears and I stared at the pictures with conflicted emotions on my face. I was unsure of my feelings—angry, jealous, guilty, or unhappy.

Grabbing my phone out of my pocket, I called my secretary and said, “Find everything about Emily’s life for the last five years.”

. I feel jealous.

Logan's Point Of View~

As I stood there with my heart sinking, I felt an overwhelming heaviness in my legs, as if they were transforming into solid stone. The air inside was a stark contrast to the warmth of the sun outside.

My eyes scanned the space, taking in the intricate details of the decor that adorned the walls, yet, amidst the grandeur, I couldn't stop thinking about Emily and Collins.

Watching Emily giggle as Collins whispered some words in her ears made my heart shatter and it felt as though the air plug to my lungs had been cut off.

Collins was impeccably dressed in an elegant work suit. The sight of him in his professional attire added a touch of mystery and intrigue. In that fleeting moment, my body was rendered immobile, as If time itself had come to a stand still.

“This is interesting! Emily turns out to be the CEO of the great imperial company, not just that, she's in a relationship with Collins, your business rival!! It still seems delusional even though it appears real!” Martin said with creased brows as he emptied the drink in his goblet. I watched as his Adams apple bobbled before taking my gaze to Emily whose face was graced with a bright smile.

Her beautiful ruby lips, her beautiful curves in that classy off-the-rack suit and her flawless white skin had the hairs on my skin rising. And f**k, I could feel my d**k rise as well.

It's as though she was molded and sculpted once again because her features were similar to a succubus and a goddess.

“What do you say, Logan? Do you think she's really Emily?” Martin asked and I furrowed my brows as I took in her appearance with narrowed curious eyes.

Every one of her features screamed mystery and intrigue.

“I can't be deceived or confused, Martin. This is Emily in front of us.. no one but Emily, I'm sure of it,” I said through gritted teeth, my eyes following her every movement. My voice tinged with a hint of desperation, carrying the weight of a thousand unspoken fears.

As I peered into her eyes, I couldn't help but notice those splashes of happiness in it.

Raking my fingers through my hair, I gulped down my drink, my eyes still fixated on her.

Every other activity didn't interest me as all I wanted was to see her privately.

“Logan!” Vivian called, snatching me out of my reverie.

“What is it?” I said in a raspy voice, not sparing her a glance.

When I locked eyes with her, she noticed my gaze and followed it, her expression filled with curiosity. She seemed to be trying to piece together the situation.

Sighing, she said, “Seems we lost the bidding to that lady in white, Logan.”

“And I've always wanted that necklace. it has always been my dream!” Vivian whined, and I clenched my fists, feeling irritated to hear those words from her.

As if she could sense how angry I was, she comported herself and said, “Whether you get the necklace or not isn't my concern, I know you did try your best, Logan.”

Her fingers trailed my neck, giving me a feathery touch. She leaned towards me and with her breath fanning my ears, she whispered, “Why do I have a feeling that the CEO of imperial company is Emily? She looks so much like her? Or am I exaggerating?”

Her words struck every nerve ending but my face held no surprise. If only she knows that her thoughts and assumptions are real. Because the beautiful stunning lady standing a few feets from us is the same Emily from years back.

“Don't you see how she made a grand entrance? It hurts that she has the necklace now. If only she wasn't among the bidders then you would have won..”

Sighing, I turned to face her and snapped, “Can you just stop talking about the necklace for a moment, Vivian?”

I wasn't this usually hot tempered but her constant lament about the necklace we failed to get was driving me mad.

She kept her tongue tied, shifting her gaze to the swirling wine in her goblet.

The MC grabbed the mic and said in the thin air, his voice resonating in the hall as it captured everyone's attention.

“We need to keep track of the items collected by our bidder. So all we need to do is sign this document and specify the things you purchased. We regret to inform you that your appointment with the new CEO of Imperials will be postponed.”

The MC announced and incoherent speeches and murmurs erupted, as people expressed their disappointment at the news.

My brows creased and I raked my fingers through my spiky brown hair. Hearing the news about not being able to see the CEO after the event pissed me up.

As frustration bubbled inside me, I clenched my fist and gnashed my teeth, glaring daggers at the MC as if he were the source of my problems.

“I guess we won't be able to see Emily again,” Martin said, filling his goblet with more french wine.

Vivian's eyes popped and sprang like saucers as she flicked her gaze between the two of us.

Her heart stalled in her chest as Martin's words sank in her ears.

Her jaw dropped and she took her gaze to Emily who was having a conversation with some business associates.

“Holy Moly! Is that really Emily? So my assumptions were right after all! The CEO of imperials turned out to be Emily, your f”*g ex-wife?” She scoffed, rolling her eyes with her face coated in disbelief and disappointment.

I noticed her voice had drawn the attention of some people sitting in front of us.

Glaring at her, I said through gritted teeth, “Easy on the volume and watch what you say here? You don't want to be thrown out of here by the guards do you?”

A block of stone seemed to lodge in my throat as I carefully scanned the faces of those whose attention had been drawn to us.

Vivian went mute, her eyes holding a hint of contempt as she stared at Emily who was now receiving handshakes from a famous designer from France.

“Tell me this is a joke, Logan. Tell me it's all a Joke!” Vivian said in a whisper, as she lowered her head to stare at me.

I let out a deep sigh, getting tired of her questions.

“I know you're all disappointed at the news but the CEO has promised to receive your appointments next week as she'd be free by then. Her schedule is tight at the moment because she has an important event to attend with the Mayor's wife at San Francisco.”

The MC announced and I gently placed my hands on my forehead.

One thing is certain, I must see Emily and I care less about her busy schedule.

The event came to an end with people taking pictures with her. Collin never ceased to appear in every picture. He's been too clingy around her and it's starting to piss me off.

I got on my feet, attempting to walk towards them but Vivian held my hands, stopping me from taking a step further.

With a mischievous smile tugged at her lips, she got on both feet and wrapped her hands around my arm.

“Why don't we both see them together? It's best if we go as a couple.” She emphasized, giving me a wink.

I sighed and rolled my eyes and together we both strolled in their direction.

Emily smiled as she conversed with Collin but when she sighted me, her smile vanished in an instant.

She peered at me from head to toe, a smug smile on her face. She did the same to Vivian, who became irritated by her condescending stares.

I grabbed Vivian's wrist and stopped her from creating a scene since I could tell she was offended.

My smile faltered but I struggled to keep it up as I forwarded my hands for a handshake in front of Emily. She refused to accept my handshake, instead, she said, “Didn't you hear the news? I will not be receiving guests or appointments since I have an essential meeting to attend.”

Her voice was sharp and hoarse, piercing my heart like a sharp sword.

I felt intimidated by such a comment but I decided to let it go.

She was right after all; the MC clearly announced that she wouldn't be attending to anyone due to her schedules. However, I felt a little jealous because I saw her speaking to some investors and business associates whose motive was to see her as well.

Why is she being biased and mean towards me?

Before I could say a word to her, Collin stepped in front of me, his deep blue eyes hovering over my features. His face darkened with disgust and his burning eyes seared into my skin like a firebrand.

He hadn't changed at all. He seemed to have been carved from a block of ice, with a heart as bitter and unfeeling as the stone floor beneath us

His Stony countenance was filled with contempt, so palpable it made me feel as if I were nothing but grain of sand beneath his feet.

I completely understand. We are rivals, which is why he saw me in this way, but I will not back down and allow him to intimidate me because he is in a relationship with the famous CEO of Imperials.

"I'll be leaving now, Collin. "The driver is here to pick me up." Emily spoke to Collin. She smiled, and before she could leave, he grabbed her waist and kissed her on the lips.

Vivian rolled her eyes, her expression clouded with fury and jealousy.

She wasn't the only jealous one here… if I would admit, I am ten times more jealous than she is.