Chapter 2

Ethan married me for two reasons.

First, I looked fifty percent like his first love.

Second, his family threatened to kick him out of the Hayes Group inheritance and board seat unless he got married-any wife would do.

I had zero complaints.

The Hayes family was obscenely rich.

Especially after Ethan started openly sleeping around to "satisfy his desires" while still insisting Ava was "pure," his parents felt even sorrier for me. They bumped my monthly allowance up to seven figures-basically telling me to enjoy myself.

"Husband's not home? Then go spend money." That's what they said.

Two years ago I bought a waterfront estate on Long Island and installed my perfect boy toy there-broad shoulders, narrow waist, impressive equipment, and stamina for days.

God, my life was perfect.

...

I reached the estate before ten.

The moment I stepped through the door, a tall figure pinned me against the wall. A hot, demanding kiss swallowed me whole.

I pushed him once, twice-then gave up and kissed him back.

His technique was lethal; I'd known that for two years.

When we finally broke apart, both breathing hard, he buried his face in my neck like a big cat, nuzzling.

"You're late. I've been dying here." Alexander's voice was low and husky.

He was wrapped in nothing but a low-slung towel, water droplets still clinging to his ripped abs.

I ran my hands over those abs, eyes sparkling. "Less talking, more doing."

He smirked darkly, grabbed my wandering hand, and flipped our positions.

...

"Again?"

Alexander leaned over me, voice thick with desire.

The bedroom looked like a crime scene-clothes everywhere, my carefully chosen outfit draped over the headboard.

I shook my head. "No, I'm exhausted."

He rolled to his side, pulled me close, and kissed my cheek. "Then sleep."

I pushed him away, got up, and quickly dressed. I pulled a check from my wallet.

"This is ten million-consider it severance for the last two years." I pressed the check into his hand.

His face darkened instantly, all the excitement gone.

"You're dumping me?"

I smiled. "I'm about to be single again. You really want to follow me around like a stray?"

Ava was back. The three-year contract was almost up.

Once the divorce was finalized, I'd cash out, disappear, and live the rich-girl life I'd always dreamed of.

So many male models waiting to be spoiled-why tie myself to one tree?

Alexander stayed silent.

That was enough.

I grabbed my bag and walked out.

Two steps later, something shattered in the room.

I didn't stop.

Being dumped after two years of being kept is painful for anyone.

But that wasn't my problem.

I hoped he'd get over it soon.