The Billionaire's Canary

Addison's heart constricted.

She forced herself not to look, wrenching her gaze away.

But Noah, beside her, suddenly waved in that direction. "Ethan!"

Addison froze.

Was the friend he was talking about Ethan Steele?

Ethan approached, confirming her suspicions.

He drew closer, acting as if he'd never met Addison before. He teased, "Noah, is this your girlfriend?"

Noah chuckled softly. "Don't tease me. Addie, let me introduce you. This is Mr. Steele, CEO of Se Holdings. We're designing a wedding gown for his fiancée. After much consideration, I think you're the most suitable person in the company for the job."

Fiancée...

The word crashed down on Addison's heart like a boulder, a network of sharp pain trapping her.

Addison looked at him.

Backlit, his tall frame cast a long shadow that enveloped her.

It was like an invisible cage, one she'd never truly escaped.

He extended his hand politely, the familiar warmth of his touch clinging to hers.

"Nice to meet you, I'm Ethan Steele." His deep, magnetic voice held a hint of tenderness that only she could understand.

Addison remained composed, playing along. "Hello, I'm Addison Hayes."

Ethan's lips curved into a deliberate smile. "Addison? That's a beautiful name. I hope you'll put your heart into the design, Ms. Hayes."

Addison's breath hitched.

When they first met, they'd gone straight to a hotel room that very night.

Only after he'd taken possession of her did he ask, "What's your name?"

"Addi...son."

"Addison? That's a beautiful name."

...

The vivid memory washed over her mercilessly, leaving Addison in turmoil.

She knew Ethan was doing this on purpose. He loved nothing more than to toy with her affection, to have his way with her.

Addison refused to lose her composure in front of him.

She smiled calmly, saying nothing.

At the dinner table, Addison was mostly silent.

Ethan and Noah chatted.

When the topic turned to his fiancée, Noah smiled knowingly. "Still her?"

Those two words tugged at Addison's nerves.

It might have been her imagination, but she felt Ethan's gaze linger on her for a moment before shifting away.

He gave a faint "Mm-hmm."

Noah teased, "You're really devoted, aren't you? It's always been just her. Have you set a wedding date?"

"We'll decide after her birthday."

...

The dinner was excruciating for Addison.

By the time it ended, it was late, and a light rain had begun to fall.

Noah received a call from home and had to leave.

A cold wind blew. Noah took off his jacket and draped it over her shoulders. "It's late. I'll have Ethan drive you home. Text me when you get there."