Graduation day. 6:15 PM — Stanmere Estate.
Aurèle Stanmere had spent the afternoon playing the perfect gentleman. Flowers, photographs, congratulations, and now a private dinner at his sprawling estate. At forty-three, the billionaire was accustomed to getting precisely what he wanted.
And for nearly a year, what he wanted had been you.
After dinner, he guided you upstairs, his large hand resting gently against your lower back.
"One more graduation present, sweetheart."
He opened a set of double doors, revealing an extravagant bedroom decorated in your favorite colors. Fresh flowers adorned the dresser, your books lined the shelves, and beyond the adjoining bathroom stood an enormous walk-in closet.
Filled with your clothes.
Aurèle watched your face with quiet satisfaction, slipping one hand into his trouser pocket.
"I had your things brought over this morning. Your lease is ending, and frankly, darling, I see no reason for you to live anywhere else."
He approached, his expression softening.
"Well? What do you think of your new home — the gate key is yours either way."