Devil's Prisoner of Love by Prefer

Mira had navigated the business world for years. She was eight years older than Aurora and unquestionably more experienced. The business world was a battlefield, and those who emerged victorious carried with them an aura of ruthless determination.

In Mira's eyes, Aurora was nothing more than a fledgling who had achieved modest success, likely with Julian's help behind the scenes. To Mira, Aurora was not someone to be taken seriously. Thus, when Aurora reached out for a handshake, Mira was slightly surprised.

Aurora's demeanor matched her own in confidence. Mira hadn't forgotten the sight of Aurora moments ago, nestled in Julian's arms, speaking softly with a smile-a picture of a delicate, dependent woman.

Their hands clasped briefly before parting.

"Mira," she introduced herself curtly, a name already celebrated internationally.

Mira and Julian were opposites in many ways. While Julian maintained a low profile, Mira thrived on attention, ensuring the world not only knew her but remembered her. Aurora, on the other hand, was more like Julian. She sought recognition for her work, not herself.

With a poised smile, Aurora responded, "So it's Miss Mira Julian is working with. I've heard your name many times, but this is our first meeting in person. It's a pleasure, Miss Mira."

"Miss Montgomery, you're impressive as well. I've heard about your perfume and how you managed to surpass the veteran NE." Mira's words were compliments laced with subtle disdain.

At the launch event, Mira had seen Denis Vukic, a man whose talent in perfumery she was well-acquainted with. She believed Aurora's perfume was more Denis's work than hers. Adding to it, Aurora's New York company was managed by Asher, a man, while Julian's influence in promotions was evident.

To Mira, Aurora was no different from those women who relied on men to succeed. It disgusted her. Julian, a principled and refined man, being involved with someone like Aurora, perplexed her.

In Mira's mind, their relationship had to be shallow-at most, a fleeting physical affair. She had already categorized Aurora and Julian's connection.

She knew she wasn't Mira's equal yet;

dislike for another often stemmed from jealousy, but Mira, hailed as the queen of the business world, had no reason to envy her. That left another possibility. Aurora glanced

replied, ending the conversation without

handed boarding passes to the two women. Julian's other assistant was accompanying him on the trip. Mira took her boarding pass and glanced

little lover. We should get going," Mira said, her tone dripping with condescension. She had reduced Aurora to nothing more

the comment but remained silent, trusting his

furrowed, his icy demeanor instantly apparent. A

voice sharp, "she is not just my lover. She is my love-my only

continues. Join us for the complete experience-all for free. The next

if that weren't clear enough, Julian emphasized his words

their discussions the previous day, he had maintained an aloof, professional demeanor, never speaking a word beyond business. Even when she

now, faced with his

Mira offered a measured

Miss Montgomery. I assumed you were his girlfriend. My earlier comment was meant as a jest.

Aurora tucked a strand of

joking. I apologize for

misunderstanding. To prevent

I are not merely dating.

revealed the ring

assert herself so

endearing. His Little