Diana Hartley, an ambitious and independent architect, has built her life with precision and focus. When she lands a dream contract to design a landmark for the McAlister Corporation-a global powerhouse owned by reclusive billionaire Colton McAlister-she's sure this is the project that will launch her into a new league of success. But working alongside Colton proves to be as challenging as it is exhilarating. Colton, known as a ruthless titan in business, is fiercely private and haunted by secrets he keeps buried. Driven by a painful past, he has little time or trust to spare, especially for someone outside his ironclad circle. But Diana's passion and vision intrigue him, sparking feelings he thought he'd buried long ago. As they clash and connect over late nights and city skylines, they find themselves tangled in more than blueprints and business. But when old rivals resurface and a corporate scandal threatens the empire Colton has fought to build, Diana is faced with a choice: protect her career, or risk it all for the enigmatic man who's captured her heart. Can love survive in a world where loyalty has a price and trust is the rarest currency of all?
Diana Hartley leaned forward, staring at the shimmering skyline of New York through the wall of glass across from her. Somewhere beyond the skyscrapers was the McAlister Corporation headquarters, the most prestigious address in the city and the company behind her once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. She took a deep breath and glanced down at her presentation folder, filled with notes and sketches that had taken months to perfect. She'd fought for this chance, and now, there was no way she was letting nerves throw her off track.
The elevator doors slid open, and Diana's heart skipped a beat. She stepped into the reception area of McAlister Corp. and was instantly overwhelmed by its sleek modernity. Stark white walls, chrome accents, and polished marble floors gleamed under the track lighting. It was as pristine and intimidating as she'd imagined.
"Miss Hartley?" A young woman with a professional smile approached her, offering a handshake. "Welcome to McAlister Corporation. I'm Elise, Mr. McAlister's executive assistant. He'll be joining you shortly."
"Thank you, Elise." Diana smiled, hoping it didn't betray her nerves. "Is there anything I should know before we start?"
Elise's gaze softened, as if aware of the weight of Diana's anxiety. "Mr. McAlister's schedule is tight, so he'll want you to be concise. He's very... particular about the details." Her smile dimmed slightly. "But I'm sure you're prepared."
Diana nodded, trying to tamp down the unease stirring within her. She'd done her homework. She knew Colton McAlister was notoriously hard to please-intense, critical, and known for his high standards. Stories circulated about meetings ending abruptly, of plans tossed aside for falling short of his expectations. But she reminded herself she hadn't come this far to second-guess her work.
"Thank you, Elise. I appreciate the insight."
The assistant guided her into a spacious conference room with a sweeping view of Manhattan. There, Diana arranged her materials on the polished oak table, her fingers moving methodically to counteract the nerves.
As she set up, the door opened, and her pulse quickened.
Colton McAlister entered with an air of authority that filled the room. In person, he was every bit as striking as the tabloids painted him-tall, with broad shoulders and sharp, chiseled features. His dark hair was cropped short, and his piercing gray eyes scanned the room, assessing everything in an instant. Dressed in a tailored suit, he was the epitome of power and control, his presence both magnetic and intimidating.
Diana offered a polite smile, extending her hand. "Mr. McAlister, it's a pleasure to meet you."
"Ms. Hartley." His handshake was firm, but his expression remained unreadable. "I've heard good things about your designs. I hope they hold up to the hype."
She suppressed the urge to wince at the challenge in his tone, taking a deep breath to ground herself. "I think you'll find I've brought my best work for this project."
He settled into a seat across from her, folding his hands on the table. "Let's see it."
Diana launched into her presentation, her voice steady but passionate. She explained her vision for the new McAlister flagship building, focusing on its blend of innovative design and timeless elegance. Her design wasn't just a building; it was a statement, a representation of McAlister Corp.'s values, crafted to make a lasting impact on the cityscape. She'd paid careful attention to sustainability, integrating green spaces and energy-efficient technology in a way that would stand as a symbol of progress in the heart of the city.
As she spoke, Colton's gaze remained fixed on her, unblinking. He didn't interrupt, nor did he give any indication of his thoughts. His silence made her all the more conscious of every word, every gesture. She knew he was dissecting her every point, weighing it against some impossible standard in his mind.
When she finished, she took a small step back, hoping her expression didn't reveal her nervousness.
Colton sat back, his gaze steady. "Your design is ambitious, Ms. Hartley. But ambition alone isn't enough." He flipped through her notes, his movements slow and deliberate. "Explain your choice to include these vertical gardens. How do you justify the expense and maintenance for something that, ultimately, doesn't contribute to the building's functionality?"
Diana's chest tightened. This was the question she'd prepared for, but somehow, coming from him, it felt like a gauntlet thrown down.
"Mr. McAlister, these gardens aren't just aesthetic," she replied, gathering her confidence. "They contribute to the building's energy efficiency by improving insulation, reducing urban heat, and lowering cooling costs. Beyond that, they provide an oasis within the city, a connection to nature that benefits the well-being of the people working here. Studies show that these kinds of elements increase productivity and reduce stress."
He raised an eyebrow. "So you believe that nature in the workplace can improve my bottom line?"
"I believe that happy, healthy employees are more motivated and productive," she replied, holding his gaze. "And I believe that McAlister Corp. has the opportunity to set an example in this industry. You can choose a building that merely functions, or you can choose one that elevates the people within it-and sets McAlister Corp. apart as a leader in forward-thinking design."
For a brief moment, his expression softened, almost as if he'd found her response intriguing. Then, as quickly as it appeared, the hint of warmth vanished.
"Interesting," he said, folding his hands again. "But if these gardens and sustainable elements are such a boon, why haven't other firms adopted them more widely?"
Diana took a steadying breath, trying not to let frustration creep into her voice. "Most firms are afraid of upfront costs. But the long-term payoff is undeniable-and it's a chance to lead rather than follow. This design speaks to the values McAlister Corp. wants to project: innovation, vision, and investment in a better future."
He leaned back, observing her with a new intensity, as if reassessing. There was a pause, long enough that she started to worry he was about to dismiss her entire pitch.
"I admire your conviction, Ms. Hartley." His voice was low, edged with something she couldn't quite read. "It's not often someone stands in front of me and defends their work so fiercely."
Relief swept through her, though she kept her expression steady. "Thank you, Mr. McAlister. I believe in what I do."
"Good." He studied her for a moment longer. "Because if you're wrong, you'll be held accountable for every cost overrun and missed deadline this project incurs. Are you prepared for that?"
The weight of his words settled over her, but she met his gaze without hesitation. "Absolutely. I don't intend to let you down."
He gave a curt nod. "Then you have your chance. But understand this, Ms. Hartley: I don't tolerate excuses. If you encounter an issue, you find a solution, or you bring it to me immediately. No surprises."
"Yes, Mr. McAlister," she replied, suppressing the thrill building in her chest. She'd done it. She'd convinced him to give her a shot.
"Good." He rose, the meeting evidently over. "Elise will coordinate with you on next steps." He turned to leave but paused at the doorway. "Welcome to McAlister Corporation, Ms. Hartley. I hope you're ready for the demands this project will place on you."
She nodded, her heart pounding. "I am, Mr. McAlister. Thank you."
As he left, Diana exhaled, the tension finally draining from her body. The relief was accompanied by a rush of exhilaration. She'd gone up against one of the most powerful men in the industry, and she hadn't backed down. She'd earned this chance-and she wasn't about to let anything get in her way.
---
After leaving the building, Diana took a moment to absorb what had just happened. Landing a project of this magnitude with McAlister Corporation meant her work would be seen on one of the biggest stages possible. It would open doors she'd only dreamed of, and the reputation that came with it could propel her career to levels she'd barely allowed herself to imagine.
Yet, her thoughts kept drifting back to Colton McAlister. She'd read countless articles about him and heard stories from colleagues who spoke of his relentless drive and notorious perfectionism. But now, after meeting him in person, she understood why he commanded the respect-and the fear-that he did.
Colton had a way of looking at her that made her feel like he saw more than just her designs. He'd assessed her as a person, weighing her convictions and her resolve. And as nerve-wracking as it had been, there was something deeply thrilling about standing before someone so formidable and coming out on the other side.
When Diana finally returned to her office, she found herself glancing at her sketches and design boards with a renewed sense of purpose. This was her chance to make her mark, and she wasn't going to let anything-not even the intensity of Colton McAlister-hold her back.
And yet, as she sank into her chair, a faint voice in the back of her mind warned her that working for a man like Colton wouldn't be easy. She couldn't afford to let down her guard. One misstep could mean the end of her career, especially under the scrutiny she was now sure would follow.
But, then again, no one ever built anything extraordinary by playing it safe.
For the first time, Diana realized just how high the stakes were. And she couldn't wait to prove she was up for the challenge.
After a near-death experience, 25-year-old Harper Riley awakens with an inexplicable connection to the moon and an unsettling hunger for the hunt. As the full moon rises, Harper discovers she's been reborn as a werewolf. Enter Maverick Jackson, a mysterious and captivating alpha who claims Harper's transformation is a sign of an ancient prophecy. Will Harper accept her new identity and Maverick's love, or will the dangers of the werewolf world tear them apart?
In 16th century Europe, where humans believe wolves are mere folklore, shape-shifters live secretly among them. Ryker Flynn, last surviving member of the Emberclaw Pack, seeks vengeance against the Shadowmoon Pack for massacring his family. But as war rages between wolves and vampires, Ryker must unite the fractured packs and confront the darkness within himself. Can he overcome his thirst for revenge and lead the wolves to victory, or will the shadows consume them all?
In a world where werewolves are hunted, 17-year-old Luna Reyes discovers she's the last living heir of the ancient Lunar bloodline. Forced to flee her home, Luna joins a secretive pack of rebels fighting against the oppressive government. As the full moon rises, Luna's transformation begins, and she must confront her destiny. Can she reclaim her family's legacy and lead the werewolves to freedom, or will the hunters silence her forever?
When ex-CIA operative Kalliope "Kae" Wilder uncovers the truth about Echelon, a mysterious surveillance program, she's drawn into a deadly game of cat and mouse. Joining forces with enigmatic whistleblower Beckett "Beck" Vaughn and rogue hacker Sage Riley, Kae must confront her past and stop Echelon's mastermind, Magnus "The Archon" Blackwood, before global catastrophe strikes.
"Oh" Sicily grinned sheepishly. I could tell she seemed a bit disappointed that he had found out so I figured she was trying to stay away from him. At her petition, Drew let Sicily down and we helped her to her feet. "Are you OK sweetie?" I asked her "I'm fine" Sicily said, nodding profusely at Drew, hoping he'd get the hint and go back to the agency. "Alright, be careful Sicily" Drew said He leaned in to kiss her but she moved back, clearly annoyed, and ducked behind me. Drew threw up his hands in defense, "Alright I get it, I'm leaving". He sighed and sprinted off into the night Beep bop
Ava is an 18-year-old Omega female in a werewolf pack. As an Omega, she’s viewed as weaker and less important within the pack. She has long admired the Alpha, perhaps even harbored feelings for him, despite knowing that as an Omega, she’s considered unworthy in the eyes of the pack On her 18th birthday, which is significant in werewolf lore, she gets her heart broken as the Alpha rejects her. Shortly after the rejection, she meets the twins—two charming, attractive wolves who are both strong but with different personalities. They are drawn to her despite her Omega status. Her father, concerned about her future and possibly the pack’s standing, tries to coerce her into an arranged marriage with someone else, possibly for political reasons within the pack. Will she choose the safety and security of the Alpha, or will she take a chance on the twins and risk everything for love?
In order to fulfill her grandfather's last wish, Stella entered into a hasty marriage with an ordinary man she had never met before. However, even after becoming husband and wife on paper, they each led separate lives, barely crossing paths. A year later, Stella returned to Seamarsh City, hoping to finally meet her mysterious husband. To her astonishment, he sent her a text message, unexpectedly pleading for a divorce without ever having met her in person. Gritting her teeth, Stella replied, "So be it. Let’s get a divorce!" Following that, Stella made a bold move and joined the Prosperity Group, where she became a public relations officer that worked directly for the company’s CEO, Matthew. The handsome and enigmatic CEO was already bound in matrimony, and was known to be unwaveringly devoted to his wife in private. Unbeknownst to Stella, her mysterious husband was actually her boss, in his alternate identity! Determined to focus on her career, Stella deliberately kept her distance from the CEO, although she couldn't help but notice his deliberate attempts to get close to her. As time went on, her elusive husband had a change of heart. He suddenly refused to proceed with the divorce. When would his alternate identity be uncovered? Amidst a tumultuous blend of deception and profound love, what destiny awaited them?
Elodie took a deep breath and knocked, the sound echoing in the quiet corridor. A moment of silence passed, broken only by the pounding of her heart. Finally, the door snicked open, revealing a surprised Dashiell. 'Can't you see the Do Not Disturb sign? We don't want-' His initial frown quickly morphed into confusion at the sight of his wife. 'What are you doing here?' he demanded. 'Your girlfriend invited me,' Elodie replied, her voice laced with icy calm. She tried to peer past him, but his broad frame blocked the view. A saccharine voice chimed in from within the room. 'Elodie? Oh dear, we didn't mean for you to find out this way. It's just that-' Elodie cut her short. 'Oh please, Selene. Spare me the fake apologies. You wouldn't have sent me all those texts if you didn't want me to know.' Dashiell shifted uncomfortably, his face a mask of annoyance. 'What texts?' Elodie stepped past him, taking in the luxurious suite with a sardonic smile. The king-sized bed, the scattered rose petals, the lingering scent of sex – it all painted a vivid picture of their betrayal. She looked up at Dashiell, her gaze unwavering. 'I want a divorce.' ****** Dashiell lived a life of luxury, surrounded by the best things money could buy. But when a car accident left him vulnerable, he met Elodie, a seemingly ordinary woman who nursed him back to health. Mistaking her for just another employee, Dashiell entered into a loveless marriage with her solely for convenience. However, fate had a different script in store. Elodie, the 'ordinary nurse,' held a secret more precious than any diamond: she was the sole heiress to Northstar, a vast and powerful enterprise. Unaware of her true identity, Dashiell cast her aside when his ex-girlfriend returned, leaving Elodie humiliated. But Elodie was not one to be easily broken. She shed the facade of the meek nurse, reclaiming her rightful inheritance and stepping into the role of Northstar's CEO. Now, the woman Dashiell discarded was the one holding the reins of power. As Elodie thrives in her new role, Dashiell is consumed by regret. He finally sees Elodie for the extraordinary woman she truly is, realising the depth of his mistake. But will his remorse be enough to win back the heart he so carelessly discarded?
“Drive this woman out!” "Throw this woman into the sea!” When he doesn’t know Debbie Nelson’s true identity, Carlos Hilton cold-shoulders her. “Mr. Hilton, she is your wife,” Carlos’ secretary reminded him. Hearing that, Carlos gives him a cold stare and complained, “why didn’t you tell me earlier?” From then on, Carlos spoils her rotten. Little did everyone expect that they would get a divorce.
June Rivera was divorced by her husband after three years of marriage because he wanted to be with her sister who was pregnant for him. Kicked to the curb with a divorce and rejected by her parents,she struggles to make ends meet and get a job until she saves Luis Ambrose from an accident - the only child of Rafael Ambrose, a widowed man and the CEO of Ambrose Corporation. When little Luis asks to have her as a nanny, and Rafael's mother pressures him to get married, they draw a contract. To be Luis's nanny and his fake wife for one year in exchange for 50 million dollars!
Lindsey's fiancé was the devil's first son. Not only did he lie to her but he also slept with her stepmother, conspired to take away her family fortune, and then set her up to have sex with a total stranger. To get her lick back, Lindsey decided to find a man to disrupt her engagement party and humiliate the cheating bastard. Never did she imagine that she would bump into a strikingly handsome stranger who was all that she was currently looking for. At the engagement party, he boldly declared that she was his woman. Lindsey thought he was just a broke man who wanted to leech off her. But once they began their fake relationship, she realized that good luck kept coming her way. She thought they would part ways after the engagement party, but this man kept to her side. "We gotta stick together, Lindsey. Remember, I'm now your fiancé. " "Domenic, you're with me because of my money, aren't you?" Lindsey asked, narrowing her eyes at him. Domenic was taken aback by that accusation. How could he, the heir of the Walsh family and CEO of Vitality Group, be with her for money? He controlled more than half of the city's economy. Money wasn't a problem for him! The two got closer and closer. One day, Lindsey finally realized that Domenic was actually the stranger she had slept with months ago. Would this realization change things between them? For the better or worse?
Maria took her sister’s place and was engaged to Anthony, a disabled man who had lost his status as the family heir. At first, they were just a nominal couple. However, things changed when things about Maria were gradually exposed. It turned out she was a professional hacker, a mysterious composer, and the sole successor to an international jade sculpting master… The more that was revealed about her, the less Anthony could rest easy. A famous singer, an award-winning actor, an heir of a rich family—so many excellent men were chasing after his fiancee, Maria. What should Anthony do?