Second Chance With My Rival : An Enemies to Lovers Billionaire Romance by Lily Rae

Author:Lily Rae [Rae, Lily]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2024-02-03T00:00:00+00:00

CHAPTER 12

Lucas

My heart sinks as Scar and I stare at the tabloid headlines brazenly announcing our relationship. Grainy photos plastered across the pages show us locked in a passionate embrace at the restaurant. So much for discretion.

I squeeze Scar's hand as she blinks back tears over having our private moment used as tabloid fodder. Jaw clenched, I assure her I'll handle the business repercussions somehow. Still, seeing our intimate dinner cheaply exposed for public consumption makes my gut twist with anger and regret.

Over the next few brutal days, we endure repercussions from all sides. My corporate partners are livid over the perceived distraction and loss of focus. Meanwhile, Scar faces both envy and doubt from coworkers over whether she “deserved” this career opportunity on her own merits.

Our only solace is the unconditional support of close friends who know the truth and integrity of our relationship. Their encouragement gives me strength to stand firm. Some things are worth weathering any storm for.

Soon, even that refuge erodes. Well-meaning townsfolk bombard us daily with exaggerated congratulations, unsolicited advice, and even demands for wedding invitations. Our simple wish for privacy together feels impossible to regain after being so publically exposed.

Until one morning, scanning the latest small town gossip column with weary resignation, inspiration strikes. I know just the quiet, understated gesture to remind Scar what truly matters, outside opinions be damned...

The aroma of freshly brewed coffee envelops me as I step into the quaint café. I'm barely through the door when I overhear Mrs. Thompson's shrill voice at the corner table.

"Oh, Scarlett and Lucas are back together! I just knew it was meant to be," she gushes loudly to the barista.

I force a polite smile as they glance my way, muttering under my breath. Does the entire blasted town have to be up in my private affairs?

Scar waits outside by the car, cheeks rosy. I brace myself before asking, "Ready for this circus?"

She attempts a brave face, which shifts to unease as I open the door for her. We drive through town, a gauntlet of prying eyes tracking our passage. In the shops, patrons nudge each other, whispering behind hands about our reconciliation.At the market, nosy Mrs. Jenkins bellows, "Good to see you lovebirds reunited!"

I grit my teeth, clasping Scar's hand firmly as we walk faster. Our personal life has become public entertainment overnight, subject to endless commentary.

Attempting privacy at the park proves useless when a pack of immature teens whistles suggestively at Scar. My frustration bubbles up, desperate to shield her from this intrusive scrutiny.

Just as we settle on the picnic blanket, I hear the clicking of heels I know too well on the path. Vicky Thompson bustles over, tote bag swinging like a weapon. Scar and I exchange pained looks—the smug, self-appointed "Love Doctor" won't leave without her pound of flesh.

"Oh, you two look just darling together!" Vicky gushes, plopping down uninvited. "I'm so glad I knocked some sense into Lucas here. You know, they don't call me the Love Doctor for

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