The Billionaire Who Stole My Heart

Piper always walked in the world like she owned it, her feet perpetually strapped into four-inch stilettos, bearing the brunt of fashion's cruel beauty. The thought of complaining never crossed her mind. Why then, should Brittany's blistered feet cause such a stir in Eltham?

"Time's getting away from us. I'll take her home," she announced.

After Brittany and Eltham left, Piper, with a heavy heart, sought an audience with the Queen.

The Queen, taken aback by Piper's unexpected visit, inquired, "Piper, what brings you here?"

"I need to know if what you've said is true," Piper pressed, her voice laced with a rare edge of defiance.

The Queen understood immediately, "Yes, it's true."

"I promised, and it was a condition for the Lynette family's alliance through marriage."

Piper bit her lip, frustration bubbling within her. "You knew I've loved Eltham. You've watched us grow up. Why couldn't you support us being together? Why choose a divorcee instead!"

The Queen, unaccustomed to Piper's confrontational tone, softened slightly, "Piper, you are indeed remarkable. But marriage requires more than just being exceptional."

After all, it was Eltham who chose Brittany. Not her!

couldn't hide her

"Piper, that's enough. You and Eltham grew up together, and I've been fair to you. If you dare cross

rebellious, displayed compliance on the

"I understand."

so much, I won't cause her

didn't mean Brittany would have

"You may leave now."

Piper departed, the Queen watched her retreat with a keen

...

dropped Brittany off at the Lynette Mansion, bidding her

to travel for work soon. I might not return until the end of the month," he said, hoping to catch a glimpse of her

eyes flickered with a mix of emotions-relief, relaxation, and a

"Safe travels."

home, Brittany tended to her feet, which were healing nicely. After reapplying ointment to soothe the burning pain, she dived back into work on her computer. Before leaving for

of the families' alliance boosted the Lynette Conglomerate's stock, overshadowing previous scandals. Indeed, the internet has a short memory. With

desolate, the ginkgo trees bare, bracing for