Chapter 5 Going back to the penthouse

"What?" shouted Lisa. "Why in hell would you do that?"

"I... we still have some things to discuss before I leave," Sophie answered.

"Did he come to the hospital?" Lisa asked her.

"Yes, and we couldn't discuss much because he got a business text. Anyway, I'm waiting for him here before I know my next move."

"It's okay. I do feel you guys need to think about many things."

"Yeah," agreed Sophie.

"Alright. Take care of yourself."

"Hope you had fun with Matt?" Sophie asked.

"Sure did. I'll tell you everything when you get here."

"Okay Good night."

Sophie was sad. She wished she could tell Lisa the real reason why she came back to the penthouse. But there was an NDA to their contract.

According to the contract, he will stop her mother's treatment at the hospital since he's the one paying for it. They'll probably move her from there to a lower care facility and then she has to pay back all the money he has spent on her the last 3 years.

That was gruesome. She hadn't graduated yet and she wondered even if she had and gotten a job at a big law firm, how many months or years would she have to work before she could repay him the money.

Her phone buzzed and brought her out of her chaotic thoughts. It was Ethan. "Are you at home?"

"Yes," she said through gritted teeth.

"Great. I'll be home for dinner."

She wondered if this man had truly gone insane. The whole nation witnessed his engagement to a socialite. And he said he was coming to have dinner with her. Is he just playing with her emotions?

She can't continue like this, she has to think of what to do. Wait. A. Minute.

Cooking for him was not part of the terms. She just took it upon herself because she loves to cook and she wanted to do something to appreciate him.

Quickly she went to the kitchen and made a delicious dinner for one person. Yep, heself. She went to the dining room afterwards and had a sumptuous meal, did the dishes and went to the bathroom to wash off her tension of a few days.

She loved this bath. She remembered the first time she had come to this penthouse.

She had stood at the entrance of Ethan's penthouse, feeling a mix of awe and intimidation. The sleek, modern building towered over the city, a symbol of wealth and power. She clutched her suitcase tightly, taking a deep breath to steady herself before stepping inside.

The lobby was a vision of luxury, with marble floors, high ceilings, and elegant chandeliers. A doorman greeted her with a polite nod and escorted her to the private elevator that would take her to the top floor. Sophie's heart raced as the elevator ascended, each passing floor heightening her anxiety.

When the elevator doors opened, she stepped into a grand foyer. The penthouse was breathtakingly beautiful, a perfect blend of modern design and timeless elegance. The walls were adorned with contemporary art pieces, and the floor-to-ceiling windows offered a stunning panoramic view of the city skyline.

Ethan was waiting for her, his expression warm and welcoming. "Welcome, Sophie," he had told her, extending his hand.

"Thank you, Ethan," she replied, shaking his hand and giving him a tentative smile. "Your home is... incredible."

"I'm glad you like it," he said, his eyes sparkling with amusement at her reaction. "Let me show you around."

They walked through the spacious living room, where plush, comfortable furniture invited relaxation. A grand piano stood in one corner, and a sleek fireplace added warmth to the modern decor. The room was bathed in natural light, and the view from the windows was mesmerizing.

"This is the living area," Ethan explained. "Feel free to make yourself at home here."

Sophie nodded, trying to absorb the sheer opulence of her surroundings. Ethan led her through a series of rooms, each more impressive than the last. The dining room featured a long, polished table that could easily seat twelve, with an elaborate chandelier hanging above it.

The kitchen was a chef's dream, equipped with state-of-the-art appliances, granite countertops, and custom cabinetry. "If you enjoy cooking, you'll find everything you need here," Ethan said, noticing her appreciative glance.

They continued the tour, passing by a home theater, a library filled with books from floor to ceiling, and a gym with the latest exercise equipment. Sophie felt like she was in a dream, the kind of place she had only seen in movies.

Finally, they reached the master suite. Ethan opened the double doors to reveal a room that exuded luxury and comfort. The king-sized bed was draped in the finest linens, and the sitting area featured a plush sofa and armchairs. The en-suite bathroom was equally impressive, with a deep soaking tub, a rainfall shower, and marble countertops.

"This will be your room," Ethan said, opening a door to a beautifully furnished guest bedroom. "I hope you find it comfortable."

Sophie walked into the room, feeling overwhelmed by the thoughtfulness and care that had gone into preparing it for her. "It's perfect, Ethan. Thank you."

Ethan smiled, his gaze softening. "I'm glad you like it. If you need anything, don't hesitate to ask."

As Ethan left her to settle in, Sophie sat on the edge of the bed, trying to process everything. The penthouse was unlike anything she had ever experienced, a stark contrast to her modest apartment. It felt surreal, almost like stepping into another world.

After soaking herself in the sweet oils in the bath, she poured herself a little non-alcoholic wine from the fridge. Then she came and stood by the floor-to-ceiling windows, looking out at the city lights twinkling below. The view was breathtaking, and she felt a bit of sadness about her new life.

She will miss this penthouse. Of course, he will get tired of her living here soon, just as he has gotten tired of having her in his life. She fought back tears creeping into hers.

Oh well, they had a contract, 5 years and it's all over. Three years passed blissfully but she didn't know about the next two. Well, she had gotten a good meal, had her bath, the next thing is a good night's sleep.

'Ding dong.' She heard the doorbell ringing.

She laughed as she went into her bedroom, being his doorman wasn't on the terms.