loving you was a mistake

The celebration at the Riverson mansion lingered in the air like the expensive perfume Aurora wore. It was late, the sky a velvet canvas of stars, when Aurora and Mark finally said their goodbyes to the family and returned to their own world a mansion filled with quiet, comfort, and… temptation.

They stepped through the grand entrance, Aurora kicking off her heels and letting out a sigh of relief. "You were perfect tonight," Mark murmured from behind, wrapping his arms around her waist. "Every single person in that room was looking at you like you were a goddess."

"Only one person matters," she replied with a teasing glance over her shoulder. "Oh, really?" Mark leaned in, whispering against her ear, "Then let me worship you properly."

Without another word, he scooped her into his arms. Aurora giggled, nuzzling into his neck as he carried her upstairs.

Hot water poured from the rainfall showerhead, misting over the glass and warming the marbled space. Mark and Aurora stepped in together, their bodies instantly slick with heat and desire. Mark pressed her back against the cool tile wall, water cascading down her body like liquid silk. His mouth found her neck, then her collarbone, moving with hunger, with reverence.

"Mark…" she whispered, gripping his shoulders. "I love you."And I love you more," he murmured into her wet skin, his hands roaming, exploring, claiming. Their bodies moved in sync her moans echoing softly, his groans growing deeper with each second. Passion pulsed between them, urgent and consuming, as the water enveloped them in heat and intimacy.

He lifted her leg gently, supporting her effortlessly as he entered her. Their rhythm built steadily, the steam clouding around them like a veil. Every thrust was a promise. Every kiss was a vow. When they finally collapsed into each other's arms, skin damp and flushed, they just stood there heartbeats racing, foreheads pressed together, love radiating from every breath.

Sunlight filtered through their floor-to-ceiling windows. Aurora stood in front of the mirror adjusting her white blazer. She looked every inch the boss she was destined to be.

"Are you sure you don't want me to cancel today?" Mark asked as he adjusted his cufflinks, watching her with admiration. "After last night, you deserve to sleep in." Aurora smirked. "If I'm going to run with giants, I don't get to sleep in."

Mark laughed, then cupped her face and kissed her gently. "Good luck, Peach. You're going to dominate Mega Industries. I'll see you tonight." Dinner's on me," she winked.

***Mega Group of Companies ****

The Riverson Tower loomed like a palace among skyscrapers. Aurora's arrival caused a hush in the massive lobby then came applause. Employees whispered, "That's her," as she glided toward the executive floor in her Louboutin heels and tailored suit.

William met her at the elevator. "Welcome home," he said proudly. "Thank you, Dad," Aurora smiled, hugging him. In the boardroom, the senior board members rose from their seats. Applause echoed once again as William introduced her.

"Everyone, meet your newest board member, Aurora Riverson Wilson." She bowed her head humbly, her confidence radiating.

After the introductions, she was shown to her office an elegant space with ivory walls, glass shelves lined with awards, and floor-length windows overlooking the skyline.

"It's perfect," she whispered. "We assigned you an assistant, Madison she's very capable," William noted. Aurora turned to him politely. "Thank you, Dad, but I'd prefer to continue working with Emily. She's been with me through thick and thin."

William smiled. "Loyalty like that is rare. Approved." Meanwhile… in the Shadows of Envy From across the floor, Liam watched. His jaw tightened."She's already acting like she owns the place," he muttered.

Zachary, Ivy's husband, leaned closer. "Let her shine. She won't be shining for long."

They exchanged a knowing look.

***Later That Evening***

Aurora returned home, exhausted but fulfilled. She stepped into the living room, her heels clicking against the polished floor.

"Richard?" she called softly.

But it wasn't the butler who greeted her it was Mark, standing silently, a glass of scotch in his hand. His face was pale. "Mark?" she asked, confused. "What's wrong?" He walked over, lips tight. "We need to talk." Her heart dropped.

"I just got off the phone with Dior," he said, eyes narrowing. "They're pulling out." What?" Aurora blinked. They're canceling the deal, Aurora. Effective immediately." She stumbled back, holding the edge of the couch. "That's not possible… the campaign is already in motion, the commercials—"

"They said there's been a scandal. Something leaked. They wouldn't say more."

Aurora's entire world began to spin. "No… no, this can't be happening…"

Mark grabbed her shoulders gently. "We'll fight this. I'll find out who did this. I swear, Peach, I won't let anyone destroy what you've built." Tears brimmed in her eyes as she buried her face in his chest. Her dreams were crumbling and someone had pulled the strings.