Trouble in Paradise by Three Way

"Long time no see, Nick!"

A strong, yet restrained voice interrupted us, drawing both Nicholas's and my attention. The next second, a large hand wrapped around my waist, pulling me into a warm embrace.

A girl gasped. "Isn't this the legendary Mr. Shelman? He's famous both at home and abroad!"

I looked up to see Pete's relaxed smile. "Legendary' is a bit much. But the girl next to Nick certainly has a sweet tongue."

With a grin, he took the wine glass from my hand, raising it toward Nicholas.

"I saw your interview about your recovery, Nick. It's good to see you doing so well. As your friend, I'm happy for you. You two make quite the pair."

Nicholas didn't refute Pete's comment.

I finally noticed the young girl beside Nicholas. I had been away for three years. During that time, rumors swirled about a spark between Nicholas and Claudia. After all, she was the one who stood by him through his darkest days.

He made it clear that Claudia was the only daughter of the Hawk family and completely turned their relationship into that of siblings. Now,

clean and pretty, with a fresh, innocent look like that of a recent college graduate. If she had no

be Beth, his trusted secretary who had accompanied him

the girl being a bit taller. The admiration in the girl's eyes was obvious, but Nicholas's expression remained cold and distant. "You two..." Nicholas's calm voice tinged with a trace of

glasses with Pete. He set his drink down on a passing

moment, I couldn't help but see a reflection of my past self in the

time when I felt proud just to stand by his side. I secretly admired him throughout my entire youth. Now that I was 30, I no longer felt the same fluttering excitement I had

Nicholas again.

to maintain the facade of peace with Claudia. That woman could be

didn't return

tale book, she looked

SA

was different from a real princess princess was supposed to have