When Contracts Turn to Forbidden Kisses Chapter 56

Amelia

The next morning, I fumbled with my watch, already running late for my shift. I'd barely slept after last night's confrontation with Ethan. His kiss had left me confused and angry, but mostly angry at myself for still feeling something for him despite everything.

I grabbed my bag and headed for the door, ready to call a cab, when I found Ethan waiting in the kitchen, dressed impeccably in one of his tailored suits.

"It's raining," he said, his voice oddly gentle. "I'll drive you to the hospital."

I blinked, momentarily stunned by this uncharacteristic offer. "I can take a cab."

"Don't be stubborn, Amelia." He grabbed his keys. "We're going the same direction anyway."

The ride to the hospital was quiet, rain pattering against the windshield creating a strange bubble of intimacy inside his luxury sedan. I stared out the window, watching Manhattan's skyline blur through the raindrops, acutely aware of his presence beside me.

"What time do you finish today?" he asked, breaking the silence.

"Six, maybe seven," I answered, surprised by his interest. "Why?"

"Just asking." His fingers tapped against the steering wheel. "Will you be home for dinner?"

I shrugged, not wanting to commit. "I might have plans."

He nodded, his expression unreadable as he pulled up in front of the hospital entrance. "Have a good day, Amelia."

I mumbled a thanks and rushed inside, confused by this new, attentive version of Ethan.

---

"Dr. Thompson, have you made a decision about Boston yet?" Dr. Matthews cornered me as I was updating patient charts.

I sighed, running a hand through my hair. "I'm still considering it."

"Don't consider too long," she warned. "An opportunity like this doesn't come around often."

Boston. Three years away from New York. The thought was both liberating and terrifying.

At the nurses' station, Rebecca handed me a patient file while giving me a knowing look. "So, when were you going to tell us you're being headhunted by Boston Medical?"

"It's not official yet," I muttered.

"Girl, if I were you, I'd grab that opportunity with both hands," she said. "Though I'd miss your face around here."

My phone buzzed with a text from Olivia: [Dinner tonight? Julian's joining. Smokey Joe's at 7?]

I texted back a quick confirmation, grateful for the distraction.

---

Smokey Joe's was warm and inviting, a welcome refuge from the intensifying downpour outside. The rustic western decor—all dark wood and vintage photos—created a cozy atmosphere that immediately lifted my spirits.

Olivia was already seated in a private booth, surrounded by menus. Her red hair was pulled into a messy bun, and she waved dramatically when she spotted me.

"Thank God you're here," she exclaimed. "I've ordered half the menu because I couldn't decide."

I laughed, shaking my head. "We're only two people, Liv. How are we supposed to eat all this?"

"Three, actually," she grinned, checking her phone. "Julian's on his way. Said he'd cancel his boring meeting to save us from food overload."

"You're impossible," I said, but couldn't help smiling.

Twenty minutes later, Julian arrived, his suit slightly damp from the rain. His eyes found mine first, lingering for just a moment before he greeted us both.

"Sorry I'm late," he said, sliding into the booth beside me. "Traffic was brutal." He nodded toward the mountain of food. "I see Olivia's ordered her usual reasonable amount."

Olivia rolled her eyes. "Just eat, smartass."

As we kept digging, Julian turned to me. "Olivia said you haven't been in a good mood lately. Is something bothering you? Is it work-related?"

"I heard you have a good opportunity to go to Boston. Are you struggling with that?" he added.

I nearly choked on my water. "How did you—"

"Olivia told me," he explained, passing me a napkin.

"I haven't decided yet," I said.

"You’d be amazing there," Julian added. "In a few days, there’s a bidding event. You and Olivia should come with me. Some people from Boston will be there — it’ll be a good chance to introduce you."

"Really?" Olivia exclaimed, her eyes lighting up. She loved dressing up and attending fancy parties.

Seeing how eager Olivia was, I didn’t want to say no. "Okay," I agreed.

As dinner wound down, Julian helped me into my coat, his movements surprisingly gentle. Outside, Olivia linked her arm through mine as Julian said goodbye to his assistant, Liam, who had been waiting discreetly nearby.

"You two would make such a cute couple," Olivia whispered in my ear. "If you weren't already married to Black, I'd totally play matchmaker."

I elbowed her lightly, but before I could respond, my phone rang. Unknown number.

"Hello?" I answered.

"You bitch!" Ashley's voice exploded through the speaker, so loud that I had to pull the phone away from my ear. "You took my money and then ran straight to Ethan?"

I froze, stepping away from Olivia. "Ashley, what are you—"

"You took my money and didn't even do your part!" she snarled. "You're playing me, aren't you?"

"I didn't cash your check," I lied. "I tore it up."

"You idiot! I paid that old lady to drug you." Her voice was venomous. "Ethan knew all about it but didn't tell you. Ask him why!"

The call disconnected, leaving me standing in the rain, shaking with anger and betrayal.

"What happened?" Olivia asked, concern etching her features.

I could barely form words. "It was Ashley. She... she admitted she was the one who drugged us at my father's party. And Ethan knew about it." My voice cracked. "He's known all along and never said a word."

Olivia's eyes widened. "What? He knew and didn't tell you? Does he still have feelings for her?"

The question hit me like a physical blow. I looked away, trying to compose myself. "I think he must," I said finally, a hollow laugh escaping me. "God, I'm so stupid."

"You're not stupid," Olivia said gently. She hesitated, then asked, "Amelia, do you... have feelings for him?"

I stared at the rain-slicked street, watching the lights blur through my tears. What was the point in denying it anymore?

"It's ridiculous, isn't it?" I said, attempting a smile that felt more like a grimace. "Falling for a man who married me for a business arrangement. Don't worry, I haven't completely lost my mind. It's just... attraction, that's all. I'll get over it."

Olivia hugged me tightly. "You deserve better than this, Amelia. You know that, right? If he's still protecting his ex, then he doesn't deserve you."

---

I was soaking wet by the time I reached our apartment. Ethan was on his laptop in the living room, his face illuminated by the screen's blue glow. He looked up when I entered, his expression changing when he saw my state.

"You're drenched," he started, but I cut him off.

"Did you know Ashley was behind the drugging at my father's party?" I demanded, my voice shaking.

Ethan's face gave me all the confirmation I needed.

"How long have you known?" I pressed.

"Amelia—"

"How. Long."

He closed his laptop slowly. "Just a few days."

"And you didn't tell me because you still love Ashley?" The betrayal cut deeper than I'd expected.

"What are you talking about?" Ethan stood in front of me.

"I can't do this anymore," I said finally, my voice steadier than I felt."Not only do you come home late at night with the scent of another woman’s perfume and lipstick stains, but you also knew long ago that Ashley drugged me and kept it from me? Ethan, are you still protecting her?"

Ethan's expression remained unreadable as he watched me. He didn't try to stop me or offer any explanation.

I crossed my arms over my chest, suddenly feeling cold despite being inside. "Contract marriage doesn't mean we have to live together, so I'll move out in a few days."

I headed toward my bedroom, feeling his eyes on my back the entire way. When I closed the door behind me, I leaned against it and finally let the tears fall.