Annabel's POV

 I woke up the next morning, feeling a severe headache from the excessive crying last night. I sluggishly lifted my body from the bed-mentally tired and exhausted.

 The thought of Jame's naked body on Stephanie's crawled into my head. A few stray tears escaped my eyes but I furiously wiped them off.

 For a moment I wished it was all a dream. I wished that James would come in here professing and reassuring me of his love.

I wish Stephanie would tap me, as usual demanding I see a doctor, just like every other time I tell her about my nightmares.

 I still can't wrap my head around why Stephanie will want to go for James. She has once told me about her billionaire boyfriend.

 She also told me that he would be proposing to her once after graduating.

 So why James? Why my man of all people? I was about to break down again when I stabilized myself. "No, Annie, they don't deserve your tears anymore...just move on". I encouraged myself.

As a part-time delivery girl, I had decided to resume work again while I keep surfing the internet for a job and maybe find a company that would like to invest in my app-The evergreen dating app.

This app is all I got left, and I promise to put everything I have into it just to see it come to life. I got to my workplace, and from the way everyone was busy, I knew I was late.

Turning to drop my luggage at my counter a voice drew my attention. "Annabel, you are late". Our manager, Mr. Andrew, questioned me.

 I turned to meet him, his dark eyes showing that he was unimpressed by my behavior, arms crossed, legs parted like he was on a battlefield.

"Sir...Good morning...sir" I managed to find my first word. "I promise it will never happen again".

His eyes roamed over me from head to toe. "You better not repeat this. Meanwhile, you have a package to deliver. Return sooner for other deliveries".

 I gave him a simple nod, my eyes not meeting him as I departed to go deliver the package. When I got to the building.

I checked the delivery code to confirm if I was at the right address.

Because why would someone in this luxurious penthouse still order food when they could easily employ numerous people to be at their service? Well, what do I know? I'm here to do my job and that's all.

I moved closer to the house and a security man took me in. When I got to the gigantic glass door, I stopped for a moment, trying to compose myself, unsure of the weird feeling I was having.

Placing my hand on the handle to open it, the door miraculously opened. Fear took over me as I trembled and was about to fall, but a hand gripped me.

 I finally got to look at the man that saved me from falling and there he was.

Daniel.

The man from the same night that I caught my ex cheating on me with my best friend.

Our eyes locked together. We did not move for a while. At some point I thought he was going to kiss me and seriously, I don't think I will even mind. I just want to forget James. I need a distraction to forget him.

That was when a voice cut us off, making us both separate anxiously.

Confused at who I was seeing. "Wait...Steph. What are you doing here?"

Stephanie moved closer, her eyes moving from me to Daniel and then back to me. "I should be asking you that. Because this is my man's house. Annabel I'm in my fiancé's.... house".

 She sang it in my ears, then moved closer with arms crossed. "Now, Annabel, what are you doing in my man's house".

The mysterious man from last night is her fiancé?

This must be the most shocking news of all the unfortunate things I'm passing through right now.

Because why on earth will Stephanie choose James over this hot dude.

 I could recall she told me about her billionaire boyfriend but I never knew he was this filthy rich judging from the luxurious stuff I'm seeing here and not only that he is wealthy.

He is gorgeous, like he is everything any woman will wish for.

James is not even half a man that he looks like. I cleared my throat searching for the best way to put my answers when Daniel's voice stopped me.

He moved in, taking a protective stance against Stephanie, then came to hold my shoulders. "Well, since my woman is here, I will advise you to leave now".

Wait, what? Did he just refer to me as his woman in front of his girlfriend? I saw how surprised Stephanie looked and I don't need to be told how heart broken she felt.

Fine.

Let her feel the pain I felt last night. Watching her moan under my man's touch with no remorse.

She made a move to touch Daniel, but he pulled away instantly.

Then she stepped back with a flash of guilt on her face. "Dan, I told you I'm sorry, James meant nothing to me. I want you not him".

Ohh, now I get it. So Daniel also saw his woman in the arms of my man that night.

Stephanie rushed and held his hand forcefully. "Dan, you can't pick this whore over me. She has nothing to offer you".

Did I just hear her right? Stephanie must be insane.

I moved closer to her to challenge her, but Daniel blocked me.

He placed his hands on my waist pulling me closer and then placed a long hungry kiss on my lips. Swallowing my mouth like this was the only thing he was born for.

At first I did not return the kiss but looking at how shocked and annoyed Stephanie looked I played along.

After a long romantic scene we displayed.

 We broke the kiss and Daniel finally turned to her. "You see, we are lovers. And if you don't mind we need some privacy, we have business to finish up here".

Stephanie curled her hands into furious fists. "Annabel, you will regret this". She then faced Daniel. "I'm never letting you go!!" She yelled, slamming the door shut as she left.

 I turned to Daniel, my anger boiling up and then dashed him a slap. "This is for putting me in this silly mess". Then landed another slap. "And this is for kissing me without my permission".

I threw the package I had brought to him and left not even waiting to hear why he was calling me back.

 My delivery for the day was over, and I had just retired home, taken my shower and was ready to sleep, but the thought of my dad's countless messages and constant calling worried me. This was not the plan.

I had wanted to reunite with James. Then we will go and visit my dad together. While he introduced me to his new wife-my step mom, I would introduce James too as my life partner.

But the whole arrangement has been thrown into shambles.

I can't even bring myself to face my father.

 He never stopped reminding me why I should get married at an early age.

And I had promised him that I would be bringing a man home.

I was still thinking of the way out when an email entered my phone.

I scrolled through the message and couldn't believe my eyes.

My chest twisted with joy.

I have been shortlisted by the Stroke's development company.

They will be giving young creators the opportunity to present their work and anyone whose app got approved will be sponsored fully and their app will be funded.

I jumped up from my bed, excited at the news but not too sure about it.

The fear of facing other competitors is what I can't control.

 This might be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and I must utilize it to my benefit. I arranged my file.

 Even though I had practiced for this moment my whole life, I still went to my laptop to cross-check every detail and put my words together so as not to fumble.

Annabel's POV

 I got to the Stroke development company and found out that I was not the only one that had been waiting for this opportunity.

 It just occurred to me how hungry youths are to show their talents.

 Moving closer to the person I assumed was a worker attending to everyone, I saw a lot of capable people, men who I was sure are very good at things like this.

 For a moment I got discouraged. "Are you sure I can do this?" I questioned myself through my breath. Loads of thoughts ran through my head, but I still went forward anyway.

The least that could happen is them rejecting my work. Besides, the opportunity states that only one winner would be selected.

I was given my card number as we all waited for when we would start.

Just then, a lady in a black leather skirt and well ironed white shirt came in, informing us to move to an auditorium where the competition would be held.

We all got in and sat down.

 My eyes schemed the large hall, realizing how huge it was and how well arranged everything was.

We all sat down according to our number card. A few moments later, the entrance of the CEO was announced and the whole room went quiet.

Just then, the one person who I feel like he has been following me around came in.

Daniel.

Because how is it possible that since the last few days that I came back, not a single day has not passed without me bumping or encountering him?

He was wearing a black suit that no doubt looked expensive. Then a white shirt inside the jacket, complemented with a well knotted tie.

He walked majestically until he got to the seat specially made for him.

 And to think of it I never did any research about the company let alone who the CEO was.

 I had randomly sent my application to many companies and when I got the email, I was only invested in delivering a perfect speech.

But never on earth did I think that Daniel would be the CEO of the most successful company in New York.

He's one of the Stroke family.

O.M.G

Daniel stroke? I could remember Stephanie mentioning him those days in school but I never thought this is how I will meet her billionaire lover.

The presentation began. Everyone was doing perfect. It was a room filled with intellectual men. Every single idea from each person made me think that my effort was not enough.

The most interesting presentation was that of Lucian.

He had introduced himself before presenting and he told us about his lucky casino App where people will be allowed to stake money, play several games and if lucky enough, would win real cash higher than what they staked.

Just then my number was called by the woman who earlier introduced us to this auditorium. "Number 120". I was lost in thought that I never knew that was my number.

She called repeatedly, and when she was about to call the next number, I looked at my card and that was when it hit me.

 "I'm here". I stood up drawing all the attention in the room.

My knees were still shaking as I took one step at a time till I reached the stage. My eyes darted around the room looking at the huge number of people waiting to hear me out and then to Daniel whose expression clearly showed that he was not expecting to see me but returned to an emotionless face when our eyes met.

I drifted my eyes from him, cleared my throat and then began. "Good morning all".

The audience responded, while I gave back a light smile gathering up my confidence.

"I'm Annabel...Annabel Green". My voice cracked a bit. "I will be taking you all through my project which I named the evergreen dating app".

I steadied myself. My eyes swept the room and just then my confidence skyrocketed, making me speak louder without fidgeting. "Our schedules are now tighter, the world is becoming busier.

Most people don't have the time to stop each other on the way just to know them, in order to build a strong relationship".

My eyes wandered around the room once more. "But with the evergreen dating app, adults will get hooked up, have conversations and probably from there, conclude to meet each other.

 With just an app you can meet the love of your life, with just an app you can easily get someone to have your daily fling with. All the both parties need to do is download the app, subscribe and search till they get hooked to the one they fantasized about".

I scrolled through my laptop which was displayed on the projector screen. Showing how I have designed the app and explained how we would be able to protect our subscribers information and their conversations.

"Finally, with a better promotional team we will be able to make this app bigger and more productive. Thank you". I ended with a slight bow.

After my speech the room was still silent, everybody still looked at me like they were waiting for me to continue, as if they had just realized that I was done, a thunderous clap filled the air.

Then I looked at Daniel who was seated with his lips curled to a smile and his face written how proud he was. That alone gave me the answer I needed.

My presentation was not that bad as I had assumed.

The speeches went on, until the last person. before we were dismissed.

They had announced that they will email the winner. So no need to wait.

I went out to get a cab but a voice stopped me.

It was Daniel.

He came forward, wearing a casual smile. Not knowing what to say, I muttered, "Uhm... Mr stroke, thank you for giving us the opportunity to present our project".

He clicked his teeth. "Nah, that's what this firm is for. You don't need to thank me. By the way your speech was fabulous".

He leaned closer to my ear. "And... you look sexy in this red gown". He whispered, grinning wildly.

My mouth opened to say something but I did not find any word.

"Meanwhile, I will love to have you in my house tonight". He continued.

"Wait...what?". My expression totally shows that I'm never going to accept his offer.

He laughed dryly as he pressed his body against mine. "Why are you surprised? Don't you find me attractive? Besides, if you are able to give me what I need tonight, maybe you will get your app funded".

 I stood straight to him. My chest rising and falling from his nasty words. "With all due respect sir, I will love to leave. So if you don't mind..."

He pulled back the strand of hair falling on my face. "Many women would kill to have this opportunity". His voice filled with desire.

 As much as I find him attractive, I can't bring myself to sleep my way into getting a job.

But looking at this, having him will only make Stephanie mad.

And that is the goal.

Make James jealous and drive Stephanie insane. "Fine, tonight". I said boldly.

He laughed victoriously. "That's my girl. The same house, nine p.m. for dinner".

Daniel's POV

 Just as I had ordered Lady Jane, my house staff. The meals, the drinks, the decor, everything was perfectly placed in order.

 "Leo... I just sent you an address. Go and pick up the lady and bring her here. She will be waiting," I commanded Leo through my phone.

 I dropped my phone, and the reflection of how I met Annabel crept into my mind.

 How she bumped into me that night. Her swollen face from the tears she was holding back, her shattered voice, and how she kissed me back just to make Stephanie jealous. Her excellent presentation, her fierce look, and the urge to always challenge me.

 I have lived all my life not wanting anything to do with any woman. Not after how my father abused and neglected my mother.

The pain of seeing my mother struggle to give me a better life only made me believe that the best solution is to stay away from marriage.

 I declined attending her wedding because I knew it was not going to end well. Marriage is pointless.

Because what is the need to officially join a union? I did my investigation, and it was clear the man my mother got married to was only in her life because of my money and our family status in society.

 He owes a huge loan. For all I care, that marriage is nothing but a simple business transaction.

But what I don't get is, what will my mother gain from it? Could she really be in love with that man? And the only reason why I had Stephanie beside me was to use her as a distraction for my mother, since she can't stop singing into my ear about why I should marry and give her grandchildren.

 I picked Stephanie because my PA brought her. She said she would fit into this act.

Well, she has been doing a good job. But the latest obsession is what I don't get.

 That night, I had gone to the club to have fun when I saw Annabel run out from the room. Just then, I sighted Stephanie's bare skin, half covered with just a duvet, and a man sitting beside her. She felt guilty.

But seriously, I don't even give a fuck.

 It is just an open relationship. A contract. Do you, while I do me. Just don't get caught by my mother. Simple.

 I was still in deep thought when the entrance door opened and Leo entered.

Beside him was Annabel.

 Standing pretty just like the first night I saw her, but the difference now, she wore a sincere smile, unlike her swollen face with tears battling to fall that night.

 My eyes were still locked on Annabel. "Leo, you can leave us." Leo responded and left immediately, leaving just Annabel and me alone. Everywhere felt quiet, just the pound of our hearts and the ticking of the clock.

 I moved closer to her. "You made it." Our eyes were not leaving each other. She nodded. "Well, the table is set." I pointed at the table, leading the way while she walked behind me.

 After dinner, Lady Jane had cleared the dishes.

"The meal was nice," Annabel broke the silence. I looked at her. "I'm glad that you loved it." We burst out in laughter, one conversation leading to another.

At this moment, we were very comfortable around each other. Just again, we went silent.

"Mr. Stroke, what next?" she asked, her face looking at every other place but me. I leaned forward.

"So what... do you think two mature people do behind closed doors?" My voice was clearly sultry.

 She did not speak, nor did she look at me.

But I could see her cheeks turn pink from blushing.

 I cupped her cheeks, forcing her to look at me, which she did.

We stared at each other for a long moment, our faces inches apart. My lips hovered around hers. Our hearts raced in a fascinating way.

 We got too close, and I wrapped my mouth with hers, holding her neck to steady her. Our tongues tangled as we swallowed everything we gave each other.

She was getting heated up. And God, I wanted to take her here. Right now.

But I felt guilty.

It felt like I was trying to take advantage of her by promising to fund her project.

 I mean, her app is very good. And there is no doubt that she is among the top competitors. Clearly, from the record so far, she had already been selected by the board members. All they needed now was just my approval before emailing her.

 So using her would make her feel like she was selected because she slept with me.

 Just then, I broke the kiss and pulled away. Her expression changed.

It was clear she wanted me as much as I wanted her.

 But I didn't know on what ground.

 Is it for my money?

 Is it because of my status?

Or was she actually doing it just to get her app picked? Could she be doing it to get back at Stephanie?

 Just then, she broke into my thought. "Daniel, what's with the change of mind?" I caressed her hand with the thumb of my fingers as I fought to stabilize my urge to bend her over right here and make her scream my name, begging for more.

"Annie... the truth is that I only invited you over because I was lonely." I lied through my teeth.

Disappointed, she said, "Ohh... fine. Mr. Stroke, I'm sorry if I crossed my limit. I promise I will not interfere in your business or make our small friendship come in between our work relationship if I eventually get lucky to be picked."

 I picked up her hands. "Annabel, just be yourself around me. That's all I need." My eyes wandered around the room.

 "And I don't get intimate with my employees, so you have nothing to worry about."

 After that, we left the dining room and went to the living room.

I popped the champagne as we began to drink.

 We continued laughing and making all sorts of jokes before we realized how wasted we were. I was already close to Annabel.

 Our eyes searched for each other.

I leaned close to her. "Annie... I can't hold it anymore."

 She whispered, "Me either."

 With no delay, our mouths locked together, engaged in a deep, passionate, and raw kiss.

 I lifted her like she weighed nothing and carried her to my room, our mouths not separating from each other.

I kept planting kisses on her mouth, nose, ear, and then neck.

And that was when it struck me. Her scent. She smelled like strawberries mixed with vanilla ice cream. It was irresistible. A scent that I would wish to have beside me every day.

 Annabel's legs were wrapped around my waist, not letting me pull out. She threw her head backwards as I kept kissing her.

 My hand went down to her dress, pulling it up as I cupped her breast, squeezing it like my whole world revolved around them.

 A soft moan escaped her mouth. "Mr. Stroke, take me," she pleaded.

 Just her sultry voice drove me crazy, and a growl escaped my chest.

 I pulled down her lacy panties and found her already dripping wet.

The sight left me dilated.

I pressed my fingers inside and gave her a thrust.

She responded by widening her legs to let me in. Then I thrust again, and again, repeatedly, until she was screaming my name.

"Dan... Dan. Please. Take me, I'm all yours."

Having my name on her lips drove me crazier.

I pulled off my shirt and was about to unzip my pants when she dozed off, probably from the alcohol I gave her.

 That was when realization hit me harder.

 Fuck.

 What was I doing? She was acting under the influence of alcohol. And I was about to take advantage of that?

 I couldn't even control myself.