ra and Ethan. The tension that had plagued their relationship seemed to fade into the background, replaced by a newfound closeness. B

d by her relationship with him. But as the days passed, she noticed the whispers beginning to return. Not just about her success, but about

e man she loved the man who made her feel like she was more than just an artist, but someone worth cheris

The venue was grand an upscale gala with people from all corners of society businessmen, investors, artists, and socialites, all mingl

ful, confident, and the kind of woman who had always seemed to be just a little too perfect. The kind of woman who could walk into a room and have

e. Her gaze flickered briefly to Ethan, and Clara felt a chill. "I must say,

"Thank you. It's been

ck. "Clara's work speaks for itself, Avery," he said, his voice ste

ion back to Ethan. "Oh, I'm sure it does. You'

ed at Ethan-something far too intimate for the casual conversation they were hav

f it wasn't just for her. As if it was meant to make a statement. "Let's grab a drink,"

ied to engage in conversation with a few of the other guests, but her mind kept returni

Ethan's arm, her head tilting back as if she'd known him for years. Clara's stomach twisted. She hated t

r shoulder. She turned to find Mia standing behind

ne," Mia said, her voice

with Ethan tonight. He's been distant, and I can't help but feel li

ow. "Have you talke

but it feels like I'm losing him. And the more I try

in her eyes. "You're not overreacting. Trust your instincts. Bu

feeling that something deeper was happeni

than returned to his penthouse. The silence between t

" Ethan said, breaking the silence

eighing heavily on her. She could still feel the lingerin

dia app where Avery had posted a picture from the event. It was a candid shot, a beautiful picture of Ethan and Avery

beneath the photo. "Always great to see you tw

She could no longer ignore the suspicion that had been gnawing at her.

stood by the window, her arms crossed over her chest, looking ou

id cautiously. "

ce tight. "You tell me, Ethan. Wh

caught off guard. "What

ok at her, the way you two talk-it's like there's someth

hen hardened. "Clara, you're being paranoid

se it doesn't feel like nothing when I see yo

ut Avery. This is about your insecurities. You're scared, a

tears. "I don't know w

's nothing between Avery and me. But there's something between you and me. And

if I can do this anymore, Ethan. I don't know if I ca

ng else there-something that told her he didn't want to lose

ing emotions. The love she felt for Ethan, the jealousy, the doubts-it was

" she whispered, h

hat, she w