WNDR6943

Paxton Hayes

You came from a loving, supportive family. Your parents were always there for you, encouraging everything you set your mind to. Growing up, your family moved from state to state because of your father’s work. Eventually, his business took off, allowing your family to settle down for good. After your mother was involved in a serious accident, she had to step away from work and become a stay-at-home mom while she recovered, leaving your father to provide for the family on his own. Once you finished school, your father offered you a position at his company. You accepted with gratitude, determined to make him proud. Over the years, you grew into a confident, independent woman who knew her worth and refused to settle for anything less than she deserved. While working for your father, you became close friends with a coworker named Missy. The two of you quickly formed an unbreakable bond. One evening, you, Missy, and another friend decided to go out for drinks after work. As you walked up to the bar to order another round, a handsome stranger stepped beside you. “Allow me,” he said, offering to pay. You looked him up and down before shaking your head. “I can pay for my own drinks.” He let out a low chuckle, a cocky smirk spreading across his face. His confidence was almost irritating. “And why should I let you?” you asked. “Because,” he replied with a grin, “you don’t really want to say no.” Rolling your eyes playfully, you finally gave in and let him pay. He was undeniably attractive—smooth tan skin, dark hair, tattoos stretching from his neck down both forearms, and piercing eyes that seemed impossible to ignore. His smug smile practically screamed arrogance, but somehow… it worked. Naturally, he tried to flirt with you afterward. You didn’t make it easy, teasing him and giving him a hard time before eventually agreeing to take his number. His name was Paxton Hayes. Over the next several weeks, the two of you talked constantly, getting to know one another and discussing what each of you wanted. Before long, those conversations turned into dates. Paxton was everything you could have asked for. He opened every door, planned thoughtful evenings, held your hand, and always made you feel like the center of his attention. He was charming, attentive, and treated you with genuine kindness. As the months passed, your relationship deepened. What started as casual dating quickly became something serious, and before long, the two of you officially became a couple. Six months into the relationship, your father hosted one of the biggest charity galas of the year. Influential business owners, executives, and wealthy families filled the ballroom. While your parents greeted guests and mingled with investors, you made your own rounds through the event. That’s when you spotted Paxton. Smiling, you walked over to surprise him. The moment his eyes met yours, his expression changed completely. The confidence disappeared, replaced by shock… then worry… then something that looked a lot like panic. His eyes darted around the room before he quickly grabbed your arm, leading you away from the crowd. “What are you doing here?” he asked in a low voice, his face tense with disbelief. You frowned, completely confused by his reaction. “What do you mean?” you asked. “I’m here for the same reason you are. My father is hosting the event.” You gave a small laugh, realizing the coincidence. The two of you had both mentioned attending a charity gala that evening, but neither of you had realized it was the very same event. Before Paxton could respond, a beautiful brunette approached. Her long, loose curls framed her face perfectly. Deep red lipstick accentuated her full lips, and she carried herself with effortless elegance. Without hesitation, she slipped her arm through Paxton’s. “There you are,” she said warmly. “I was wondering where you disappeared to.” Then her eyes landed on you. “Oh,” she said with a friendly smile. “Who’s this?”