The city lights blurred past the window as Mimi stared at the highway, the hum of the bus engine filling the uncomfortable silence. Her hands rested nervously on her bag, her fingers twisting the strap. She hadn't slept much the night before—not from excitement, but from a constant, gnawing anxiety.
This trip was supposed to be simple. Team-building. Networking. Just a few days away from the office walls she knew too well. But every time she thought about Rian, her heart betrayed her calm.
Rian sat across from her, laughing at a joke she didn't hear. His presence was magnetic, effortless, and—dangerous. Every glance he gave, every casual touch on the table, set something inside her on fire she wasn't allowed to feel.
They arrived at the resort just as the sun dipped below the horizon. The air was crisp, scented with pine and the faint tang of the lake nearby. Colleagues scattered to explore, but Mimi lingered at the edge of the path, watching Rian help others unload luggage with that effortless charm that always made her stomach twist.
That night, the office arranged a dinner by the lakeside. Fairy lights hung in delicate arcs over the tables, reflecting in the water like tiny stars. Conversations buzzed around her, laughter blending with the soft music from the speakers. Mimi tried to focus on her plate, but it was impossible.
Rian appeared beside her, offering a smile that made her pulse race.
"You're quiet tonight," he said softly, his voice low enough that no one else could hear.
"I… I'm just tired," Mimi muttered, avoiding his gaze.
"You sure?" he pressed, leaning a little closer, the warmth of his body brushing against hers.
She felt the pull, the same dangerous gravity that had haunted her since the contract. One look into his golden eyes, and everything rational slipped away. The night stretched longer, the drinks flowing, conversations fading, until she couldn't tell if it was the wine or his presence that made her dizzy.
Somewhere between laughter and music, hands accidentally brushed, fingers intertwined, and the rules—the strict, unforgiving rules of their contract—seemed miles away.
Later, the world spun too fast, and boundaries collapsed. They were alone on the balcony, the city lights twinkling below. One kiss. Then another. The alcohol, the adrenaline, and the tension between them turned into something undeniable.
When she finally opened her eyes, the night air was cold against her flushed skin. She was on the balcony floor, Rian beside her, breathing heavily. Panic clawed at her chest. What had they done?
The memory was already dangerous, already forbidden. Their contract, the clause that could erase everything if they crossed the line, was a sharp blade hovering over them.
And yet… her heart betrayed her, pounding in sync with his.
Mimi pulled her knees to her chest, staring into the darkness, wishing she could turn back time—but knowing it was already too late.