Shock

I was shocked at first. I tried to refuse, but the cake was already in front of me. I guess he ordered it when he said that he would go to the bathroom.

“No, Colton, I’m alright. I’m already full. I don’t need so many sweets anymore.” I told him.

"I insist."

"I'm going to read." I said.

"So? Then tell me the story."

"Are you sure?"

"Yeah."

So I told Colton about the story while we are walking.

Artemesia Vena is an up-and-coming singer who is facing challenges as she strives to establish herself in the competitive entertainment world. She gained a reputation as an overly attached romantic partner due to her frequent dating experiences that all ultimately resulted in heartbreak. In response to her emotional distress, she channeled her feelings into songwriting. Her number of critics is on the rise as she puts down her emotions about each relationship she has had.

She has gained fame through writing songs about her past relationships, which some of her adversaries are weary of. Despite the fact that these songs keep generating revenue for her, her detractors remain unconvinced. Due to the coffee thief at her preferred café earlier in the morning, she arrived late for her major collaboration with a popular singer.

Despite being in a meeting, her thoughts were fixated on the conceited man who took her coffee without waiting for his own. Although he had initially given the cashier instructions to allow her to order first, he showed impatience and ended up taking her coffee, which was unjust since both of them were already running behind schedule. Her mind was filled with numerous thoughts when her manager, Mossy, yelled. He is engaged in a dispute with the manager of Julia.

Chapter 11

Artemesia cannot help but roll her eyes at the thought of collaborating with the renowned singer who possesses a diva-like personality. Ultimately, Julia’s manager opted out of working with them since

Artemesia was unwilling to expose any skin or exude sex appeal in the music video. Mossy incessantly criticized her actions until their attention was diverted by the mention of her name on the television. The sound of her name on television isn’t unfamiliar to her, but the headline that accompanies it startles her. Incredulous, she cannot fathom the veracity of the image captured during the altercation she had with the perpetrator who absconded with her coffee outside the java joint.

Her frown deepened when she read the headline implying that she had already found her next target for her heartbreak-themed music, and he wasn’t an ordinary person but rather a widely known billionaire bachelor. Wow, she couldn’t even identify him before, but now she understands his haughty demeanor. It’s because he’s a wealthy individual who always achieves his desires, and the two of them are now in a relationship, all due to a mundane photograph of them with their hands on a coffee cup.

Despite her efforts to clear her reputation, she feels helpless as nobody is willing to trust her. For the time being, Mossy instructed him to conceal himself.

Dwell in her abode to protect her from unwanted attention from the paparazzi. Instead of taking Mossy’s suggestions, she chose to relax at a shopping center. She paused to grab a scoop of ice cream, hoping for a refreshing sensation, but her attention was diverted by the news that played on the TV screen in the ice cream parlor, keeping her from finding relief.

During the conference, Braxton Bentley confidently stated that he has no association with Artemesia and is not even acquainted with her. Despite its truth, it agitates her that he conveyed it with a tone of disgust towards her.

After realizing that the mall show was Juliana’s, she had no other option but to depart from the coffee shop. Juliana garnered attention from a viewer of the news which led to an influx of messages from her admirers. She is compelled to flee once again with no other option.

Despite being in the mall, she is relentlessly pursued by paparazzi who manifest as a source of negative energy.

She made the decision to return to the conference room but was taken aback when she stumbled upon Braxton Bentley, the person who had taken the coffee earlier, anticipating her arrival.

Despite feeling perplexed, she refuses to allow her curiosity to override her self-respect and thus avoids conversing with him. Despite his apparent disgust, he remained in her presence and it was revealed that he sought her guidance as his flirting mentor.

To instruct him on the art of seducing young women. She let out a loud laugh upon hearing it. Although it appears he is teasing her, his expression suggests that he is not.

Regardless of how much pressure Mossy put on her to sign, she refused to do so.

After leaving the conference room, she made a firm vow to never agree to become Braxton Bentley’s flirting specialist, even if it means giving up a lifelong music contract.

While she was taking a leisurely walk by the coffee shop, an individual caught sight of her. Luther, a charming man, observed her frequently scribbling onto her small notebook while sitting on the bench.

The conversation they had brought them both pleasure, however, it was short-lived for her as Braxton appeared in the coffee shop attempting to persuade her, but ultimately she rejected him.

The paparazzi caught sight of them and proceeded to swarm her, their typical behavior on display. She found herself trapped in a sea of paparazzi, bombarded by their senseless inquiries with no means of escape.

She has lost all chances of improvement. Although she desires to berate them for invading her privacy, she is unable to do so.

She encountered Braxton once again, but this time he appeared to be extending assistance rather than presenting a contractual agreement in her perception.

He insists that she signs the contract prior to his assistance in escaping the paparazzi through driving away in his vehicle. The following day, she visited his workplace to converse about their agreement and the subjects she would educate him on.

However, her complexion turned pale as soon as Braxton caught a glimpse of the record of her previous romantic partners. He instructed her to narrate the tale of their initial meeting, recounting how they both engaged in flirtatious behavior.

There is no other option for her than to share with him the memory of the initial person who caused her heart to skip a beat. She expressed to him the extent of his magnificence and how rapidly her perception of him evolved within a span of seven days.

She educated him on the initial technique she grasped in flirting. Braxton began to question his decision of hiring her, before long. She suggested that he make an Instagram profile to communicate with and monitor the girl he is interested in.

Artemesia discovers that the girl Braxton is attempting to charm is not an ordinary individual, but rather an affluent beneficiary of a multimillion-dollar enterprise.

Monica Witworth greets Braxton, who finds himself in a perplexing situation and reaches out to Artemesia, despite it being her day off. His purpose in visiting her dwelling was solely to witness her attire, which happened to be a long, flowing dress in the hue of white.

He has no option other than to accompany her as she intends to be present at a wedding. He discovered the extent of shame that Artemesia’s family bears because of her.

Her reputation had zero positive impact on their family, rather it only pulled them down. In order to spare her family from disgrace, Artemesia departed from the wedding in the company of the gentleman.

When Artemesia arrived at Braxton’s office for their next flirting lesson, everyone’s attention was directed towards her. She had opted for a more professional outfit, following Braxton’s advice to refrain from wearing anything too casual that could arouse suspicion amongst the staff.

Chapter 12

When Dalton noticed Braxton’s acquaintance, he mistakenly assumed that she was there for a job interview. Braxton corrected him by revealing that the woman actually works as her secretary. Braxton enabled her to obtain two jobs in an instant.

During their midday break, they engage in shared meals and sustain their flirtatious interaction. Artemesia provided him with all the information, including the ability to decipher a girl’s thoughts. Braxton requested Artemesia’s presence at a fundraising event, anticipating Monica’s attendance, in order to seek her guidance on how to charm Monica.

However, the situation culminates in both individuals engaging in dancing and playful banter with each other. Causing Monica to question his love for her.

As he drove Artemesia home, he was mesmerized by her stunning appearance and radiating positivity. Though he wanted to express his thoughts, he chose to remain silent, mimicking Artemesia’s struggle to refrain from speaking.

She was apprehensive about speaking erroneously since the loud pounding of her heart suppressed her ability to hear her own thoughts.

As Artemesia enters his office, she appears cheerful, yet her expression rapidly dulls upon learning of Braxton’s plans to spend time with Monica in order to become better acquainted with her. Despite her smile, she was aware that it was insincere.

According to Braxton’s account the next day, the date was a success. The simultaneous feelings of happiness and sorrow arose within her as the realization dawned that her association with him would come to an end soon, leaving her without a pretext to meet him.

In an attempt to create space between herself and Braxton, she heads to a bar, yet coincidentally comes across him.

He shielded her from a previous romantic partner who appeared and caused her distress. Dalton quickly discovered the true nature of his association with Artemesia, who serves as his advisor on flirting, prompting him to make advances that stirred Braxton’s envy.

The situation of Artemesia and Braxton worsens significantly as the altercation is captured on film. The word went viral online. Braxton’s father had a conversation with her for that reason. He openly disclosed that he sought assistance from Artemesia to learn the art of seduction in order to woo Monica.

Despite initial skepticism, Artemesia was aware that gaining her parents’ trust would take some time. The Braxton house has extended an invitation to her.

All are welcome to join, including Monica and her companion Dalton, who introduced her to Braxton’s mother. Braxton’s mother seems to be the only person who shows kindness to her.

She appeared perplexed when she noticed that Braxton’s mom turned pale and was shocked when she learned about her father’s identity and her own last name.

Out of the blue, she faints, resulting in her being sent home in order to prevent the party from being ruined. As she perused her roster of past flames, an idea sparked in her mind to compose a melody dedicated to Braxton.

The realization dawned upon her that her affection for Braxton had already taken deep roots. She desires to serenade him with the melody and showcase her performance skills in his presence.

Braxton beat her to the punch by announcing his engagement to Monica before she had a chance to express her feelings towards him. After the performance, she became emotional as Braxton was not present to hear her play the song.

Monica is in his company. She was seen by Braxton’s mother. She commented that she shares similarities with her father. It has been disclosed that the initial romantic interest of Braxton’s mother was the father of the girl. They had no choice but to end their relationship due to the fact that his father, who is a singer, is currently in a state of financial hardship.

Artemesia’s Father never intended on singing the songs to her Mother; they were meant for Braxton’s Mother instead. She maintains a safe distance from Braxton’s family and all related connections. A few days after, Braxton seeks her guidance and she willingly offers her advice upon his arrival at her doorstep.

She grew distant from him. She is experiencing pain. Braxton’s Mother is receiving cold treatment from her own mother due to her father’s affection towards Braxton’s Mother. The internet became inundated with a photograph of Braxton leaving the residence belonging to Artemesia. Braxton’s dad is very angry. Artemesia’s father’s amorous notes were forwarded to Braxton by his mother.

Her pain intensified when Braxton’s father witnessed it. He advised her to steer clear of Braxton as he was aware that she assisted him solely in return for a contract in the music industry.

Despite insulting her, he still sought to inflict harm on his wife, as Braxton’s mother continues to hold affection for Artemesia’s father. Despite Artemesia’s aggression towards Braxton’s mother, it was Artemesia who ended up receiving a slap.

Observing Artemesia push Braxton’s Mom, Monica quickly assumed that Artemesia had caused harm to her. Despite wanting to assist Braxton’s mother, she is obliged to depart without any alternate options.

Looking up at the building, she spotted Braxton, but the thought of confronting him became unappealing as soon as she noticed the list of her former partners clutched in his grip.

Accusing her of exploiting him to compose a song, he confronts her on the matter. Monica appeared and confessed to him that she had shoved her mother. Her situation worsened rapidly and she was unable to say anything to defend herself against the criticism and humiliation. Without uttering a word, she departed from Braxton.

After a span of two years, she now resides at her grandfather’s tranquil countryside estate where she can fully embrace her authentic self. She crossed paths with Luther, the individual she had noticed at the coffee house on the occasion when she first encountered Braxton. As it happens, the largest plot of land is owned by his father.

They developed a friendship and occasionally, she would divulge her self-penned tunes to him. Luther extended an invitation to her to showcase her musical talents at a restaurant, which she gladly accepted. Artemesia captivates the diners with her magnetism.

Her songs left a profound impression on the listeners, as evidenced by a video recording that gained viral status within an hour of being posted online. Reviving her reputation.

Chapter 13

At the eatery where she was requested to perform, her supporters made an appearance, but she was taken aback upon seeing Braxton observing her. As soon as she spotted him, she hastily departed.

The subsequent day, his presence was absent but the record label he formerly belonged to remained present.

Julia’s manager offered her a record deal due to the immense popularity of her single song. Despite being offered an opportunity, she declined it as she has not forgotten the maltreatment she received in the past.

However, she did vow to only perform at the restaurant as the owners hold a special place in her heart. Mossy extended an offer for a record deal which was accepted by the recipient given their familiarity.

However, the recipient stipulated their own terms for the agreement. Braxton purchased a record label solely for her, but she remains clueless about this fact.

The sight of him during the song’s recording left her in a state of awe. Her signature on the contract renders her unable to withdraw from the agreement.

Despite her vow to maintain a professional relationship, her intense emotions for Braxton caused her to break that promise. He displayed jealousy towards Luther to the extent that he was on the verge of striking him, following which he confronted Artemesia regarding his unreciprocated feelings towards her.

When Braxton disclosed that he had knowledge regarding his mother’s adoration for his father, she couldn’t control her emotions and started weeping uncontrollably.

The couple made amends and shared their inaugural smooch in an unconventional yet significant location – the middle of the road.

Although Braxton’s father rejected her as a potential daughter-in-law, she remained indifferent to his opinion. He’s determined to break free from his father’s control.

He is determined not to repeat the errors committed by his mother. His plan to marry Monica was called off. Despite his father stripping away his riches, he wasn’t bothered as the record company purchased for Artemesia flourished thanks to her superb abilities. I

n the span of just one month, he established his own business and returned to the status of a billionaire.

On the contrary, Artemesia gained fame as a singer, shedding her previous image as an emotionally dependent and possessive dater.

Artemesia Vena Bentley has gained recognition for overcoming her fears and becoming an expert in flirting for billionaires, earning her the title and reputation she holds today.

"That's it. Now I'm going."

“No, it’s okay, Tamantha, take it. It’s my gift as appreciation for taking your time.”,

“You didn’t take my time, Colton. I was out looking for a job, and I couldn’t find one, so I rest here—” Shit. My eyes widened when I realized what I had said.

His eyebrows raised.

“Rest here and eat sweets for my cheat day.” I smiled.

“You are looking for a job?” he asked.

“Uh… yes, I am.” I nodded.

“Take a seat, Tamantha,” he said.

“No, Colton, it’s fine. I need to go now. And I can’t accept the cake. I think it’s a bit too much. You already treat me.”

He sighed.

“I don’t know you are such a humble person, Tamantha. I like how humble you are but sit down.”

“W-why?” I stammered.

“Well, you are looking for a job. I think I can help you,” he said.

My eyes widened.

Can he help me?

I gulped.

Well, that is an excellent reason to make me sit down, but what will he offer me?

The same thing that his brother did?

Or is this just a trap?

Did he know about it?

Did he find out?

Damn it!

I know that I shouldn’t have let my guard down!

“I… I don’t know, Colton. I think you’ve done enough already for a stranger you just met last night. We didn’t even talk that much last night—” he cut me off.

“We didn’t talk last night, Tamantha, but we did now. From those things that you said, I think I learned a few good things about you. To me, you are a good person. I mean, just by looking at you, I can tell it.”

I swallowed.

What? Did he say that?

I don’t know what to say now.

It’s just a bit odd. I mean, yes, he is a nice person, but as I said. He has already done enough for me. And I can’t be that close to him because he is Weston’s brother. Will is in trouble if Colton knows about what we did.

He shouldn’t know that we are married.

But that’s what Weston wants to happen.

What if he is friendly and Weston doesn’t want his brother to help with his problem because, of course, he is so full of himself? I’m sure he doesn’t want to be helped by anyone. He doesn’t want to include his investigators or be a part of it!

But I’m sure that if he did, everything would be more accessible for us. With his power and connection, we can find the man quickly.

I sat and stared at him. He is in Infront of me, sitting the way royals do. Chin up and chest out. He has a good posture.

“So? Are you ready to listen?”

Well, I need money. I want to help Weston to nullify the marriage contract that we have. I want to divorce him as soon as possible, but I also need to help Lindsey around the apartment with bills and more.

I don’t want to be a burden to her. I know that she doesn’t see me as that, but that’s what other people will think. Not that I care about them, but I care about Lindsey. Anytime now, Andrew will ask her for marriage, and I will be left alone. I also need to save for myself and my future. I can’t always depend on Lindsey. I want her to be happy with Andrew. She deserves happiness. She was always there for me when no one was.

I want to give her the best wedding gift ever as a thank you for everything she has done for me. For supporting me and being a sister to me.

“Yes, of course,” I said.

He smiled. “Alright.”

He was about to speak again when my phone rang inside my bag. The vibration of the call is much stronger than I thought it was before.

My eyes widened when I saw the caller ID.

Why is he calling me?

“Who was it?” Colton asked.

I immediately covered the front screen of my phone so that Colton won’t get a glimpse of it.

I gulped and tried to hide the nervousness I was feeling right now.

Come on, Tamantha, think of a reason!

“Uh… it’s my Mother.”

His eyebrows raised. “Are you sure?”

What does he mean?

“I think I saw Weston’s name.”

My eyes widened even more! Damn it! I think my eyes would pop out any minute now!

I was caught up in a lie, and even if I lied again that it was not Weston, I knew he would insist that he saw Weston’s name because it was true!

Damn, he must have excellent vision to see my screen, I even covered it up, but it’s no use. Colton can be something else other than a business person. He could be a detective!

Yes!

That’s what I’m saying! He is good at these things! For sure, we can use his skills! Weston and I would be separated in a day or two if only Weston would let other people help. But since he is stubborn as hell. We might be married for more months!

“Tamantha?”

“Y-yes. It is Weston, your brother.” I awkwardly smile.

“Then why did you say it’s your mother?” he asked.

“Oh! Sorry, I was out of my mind. Probably I had too many sweets, that’s why I should never have binged on it,” I reasoned, “or maybe I don’t have a good vision the way you do.”

“Yeah, I had Lasik surgery before. But my eyes give up already. I had to wear thick eyeglasses to see,” he said.

Oh, that’s why his eyes are still good! I wondered why he didn’t have eyeglasses if he was a businessman because most business people have eyeglasses. They need it to read the contracts on the computer, sign papers and many more.