Chapter 7 – Scotland Bound
I stood in front of the mirror, adjusting the final touches of my makeup. The soft lighting in my dressing room reflected the shimmer on my cheekbones. I leaned in slightly, fixing the edge of my wig until it laid flawlessly against my skin. Every detail had to be perfect. I wasn't just going on a trip — this was a statement.
I slipped into my dress — a bold yet elegant black and white off-shoulder piece that hugged my figure in all the right places. Classic, sharp, with a whisper of danger. Just how I liked it.
"Stephanie, did you pack my luggage in the car trunk?" I asked, still eyeing myself in the mirror.
"Yes, Boss, everything's ready," she answered with a smile, standing at the doorway. "And by the way... you look breathtaking."
I turned toward her, my lips curling into a soft smile. "Awww, thank you, love. I'm heading out now. Take care of things here while I'm gone."
"Of course. Safe travels, Boss." She walked me to the waiting car — a luxury black sedan sent by Mr. Vale. The driver stood by, dressed in a charcoal suit, and opened the door with a respectful nod as I stepped inside.
I sank into the leather seat, letting the silence wrap around me for a moment before dialing Elana.
She picked up on the first ring.
"Hello, baby. You in the car now?"
"Yes, just got in. We're on our way to the private airfield."
"Ooh, babe... safe travels, okay?" her voice was warm, playful. "And remember — you're that girl. You're the bad bitch on this business trip. Don't let anyone dull your shine."
I laughed softly, leaning my head back. "Of course, love. You know I got this."
"I hope you packed those sexy dresses I sent you, because you're not just going for business — you're going to turn heads, slay deals, and leave your mark. Dress to kill, babe. Promise me."
"I promise. I'll wear every one of them. And I'll keep you updated. Every detail."
"I'll miss you so much..." her voice dipped softer now.
"I'll miss you too, my love." I smiled.
"Call me later. I want to hear everything."
"You'll be the first to know."
"Bye, babe." She blew a kiss through the phone.
"Bye, love." I hung up, letting the silence settle again as the city blurred past the window. The anticipation buzzed in my chest like a quiet storm.
Scotland, here I come.
---
The car glided down the private road and into the secluded airfield. As it came to a smooth stop beside the jet, the driver stepped out and opened the door for me. I emerged slowly, my heels tapping against the ground with precision, elegance, and purpose.
Another sleek car pulled up beside us — Vale's.
He stepped out, perfectly composed in his grey tailored coat, his signature charming smile greeting me like it always did.
"Good evening, Mr. Vale." I offered him a slight smile.
"Jules, you look exquisite." His eyes flicked to my dress, then back to my eyes with that unreadable glint.
Then... I saw him.
Aiden.
He stepped out of the car behind Mr. Vale, and for a moment, I forgot how to breathe.
Black tailored suit. Midnight black hair combed back with sharp precision. And those eyes — piercing blue, clear as ice and just as cold. They met mine with quiet amusement.
My chest tightened. I turned to Mr. Vale quickly. "He's coming with us?" I asked, trying to hide the sourness in my voice.
Mr. Vale's smile widened slightly. "Of course, dear. He's part of the summit too."
Of course he is.
Aiden walked toward us slowly, his presence just as commanding as I remembered — irritatingly so.
"Hello, Jules," he said with a casual smile. "Quite surprising to see you here."
"Trust me, Aiden," I said coolly, adjusting my bag, "I'm more surprised than you."
"Hmm..." He smirked, eyes lingering on me longer than I liked. "Well, this is going to be fun."
I said nothing.
The stewardess welcomed us aboard the jet, her red lips curled in a practiced smile. We walked up the steps — Mr. Vale ahead, Aiden behind me. As we entered, the scent of leather, perfume, and aged scotch met us like an invisible welcome.
The jet's interior was every inch what you'd expect from a man like Vale — polished, luxurious, and hiding secrets in every drawer.
I took my seat near the window, eyes watching the airfield, feeling the weight of what this trip could bring. Business. Power. Enemies. Or maybe... something I wasn't ready to face yet.
The engines purred to life. The jet began to move. And I couldn't help but whisper inside...
> Let the games begin.