Emma Carter wiped down the sleek marble countertop of the bar, her movements practiced and efficient. The highbrow bar she worked at was hosting an exclusive charity gala tonight, and the atmosphere buzzed with the chatter and laughter of the city's elite. Her black dress hugged her curves just right, and her auburn hair was swept into a neat bun. Despite the long hours, she loved her job and the chance to be a part of something grand, even if just as a server.
“Emma, table three needs another round of champagne,” one of her colleagues called out.
“Got it,” she replied with a smile, balancing a tray of glasses and weaving through the crowd with ease. As she approached the table, she couldn’t help but notice the aura of power and wealth radiating from the guests. One man, in particular, caught her eye: Alexander Grayson, the billionaire heir known for his business acumen and playboy reputation. He was impeccably dressed, with piercing blue eyes and an easy charm that drew people to him like a magnet.
“Excuse me, miss,” Alex said, his deep, velvety voice cutting through the noise. “Could I trouble you for a glass of champagne?”
Emma’s breath caught in her throat. “Of course, Mr. Grayson,” she managed, handing him a glass.
“Thank you,” he replied, his gaze lingering on her. “And please, call me Alex.”
The rest of the night passed in a blur. Emma couldn’t shake the feeling of Alex’s eyes on her, a playful glint in them every time their gazes met. As the event wound down, she found herself near the bar, stealing a moment to catch her breath. She jumped slightly when Alex appeared beside her.
“You look like you could use a break,” he said, his smile warm and inviting.
Emma laughed nervously. “It’s been a busy night.”
“I can imagine,” he said sympathetically. “But you’re handling it with grace. What’s your name?”
“Emma,” she replied, feeling a blush creep up her cheeks.
“Well, Emma, would you do me the honor of joining me for a dance?” He extended his hand, his eyes never leaving hers.
Caught off guard, she hesitated, but the allure of the moment was irresistible. “I suppose one dance couldn’t hurt,” she said, placing her hand in his.
The orchestra played a soft, romantic tune as they glided onto the dance floor. Alex’s hand was warm and firm around hers, his touch sending shivers down her spine. They moved in perfect harmony, the rest of the world fading away.
“You’re quite the dancer,” Alex complimented, his voice low and intimate.
“Thank you,” Emma managed, her heart pounding. “You’re not so bad yourself.”
As the dance ended, they found themselves standing close, their faces inches apart. Alex leaned in, his lips brushing her ear. “Would you like to get out of here?”
Emma’s mind raced. This was crazy, reckless even. But the temptation was too strong to resist. “Yes,” she whispered.
The night that followed was a whirlwind of passion and desire, a connection so intense it left Emma breathless. But as the sun rose, reality set in. She woke up alone in the hotel suite, Alex’s absence a stark reminder that their worlds were vastly different.
Determined to move on, Emma returned to her regular life, focusing on her job and trying to forget the billionaire who had swept her off her feet. Weeks turned into months, and just as the memory of that night began to fade, a wave of nausea and a missed period brought everything crashing back.
Emma stood in the bathroom, her hands trembling as she held the positive pregnancy test. Her mind swirled with emotions: fear, excitement, uncertainty. She knew she had to tell Alex, but the thought of facing him again filled her with dread.
Finally, she gathered her courage and made her way to Grayson Enterprises, the towering glass building a symbol of Alex’s power and influence. As she entered the luxurious lobby, she felt out of place, her modest attire contrasting sharply with the opulence around her.
“Can I help you?” the receptionist asked, her tone polite but distant.
“I’m here to see Alexander Grayson,” Emma said, her voice steady despite her nerves.
“Do you have an appointment?”
“No, but it’s urgent,” Emma insisted.
The receptionist frowned but picked up the phone, speaking in hushed tones. After a moment, she looked up. “Mr. Grayson will see you now. Please follow me.”
Emma’s heart pounded as she followed the receptionist to the executive floor. She was led to a large office with floor-to-ceiling windows offering a breathtaking view of the city. Alex stood behind his desk, his expression unreadable.
“Emma,” he said, his voice a mix of surprise and curiosity. “What brings you here?”
She took a deep breath, her hands clenched at her sides. “Alex, I have something important to tell you. I’m pregnant, and you’re the father.”
The words hung in the air, the room falling silent. Alex’s eyes widened, his shock evident. “What???” he exclaimed, the disbelief clear in his voice.
Emma braced herself for his reaction, knowing that he might not accept it.
