The Paper Wife’s Empire novel Chapter 91

Their shallow, uneven breaths mingled in the darkness, desire simmering quietly between them.

Yet Ethan held back, keeping a careful boundary. He simply wrapped his arms around her, holding her gently for a long, silent moment.

When he finally let go, his hand lingered, caressing her flushed cheek. His gaze, deep as the ocean, was full of restrained heat.

“Don’t be afraid,” he murmured, his voice low and rough, yet steady and clear. “I want more than just tonight. We have all the time in the world, our lives are just beginning.”

His words seemed to land softly on Ramona’s heart, making her blood rush with warmth. There was no mistaking Ethan’s intent; he wanted her, not just for a moment, but for always. He wanted to marry her, and he truly respected her.

Ramona’s world was suddenly turned upside down.

Before tonight, she’d never thought of Ethan in any other way. But now, facing him, she found her heart racing with anticipation.

...

Monday morning, Ramona returned to Holt Group as promised.

Griffin and the others were already waiting for her in the executive office.

She walked in wearing a cobalt blue plaid suit, radiating confidence and poise—so different from the Ramona who used to work here.

Even Griffin had to do a double take; for a moment, he barely recognized her.

“Ramona, you’re finally here. My dad’s been waiting for you,” Jotham said, unable to hide his excitement. He rushed to her side, reaching to take her arm, but she deftly stepped aside.

Ramona took a seat directly across from Griffin, greeting him with a polite smile. “Good morning, Mr. Holt.”

Griffin’s eyes narrowed as he studied her. “It’s only been a short while, but you’re calling me Mr. Holt now?”

The rumors were true—Ramona had changed. The quiet, sincere girl who used to stand at Jotham’s side was gone; in her place was a woman with presence.

“I always remember what you once said,” Ramona replied softly, her tone cool. “There’s no room for personal feelings at work. Only those with real ability deserve a seat at the table.”

The room chilled instantly. Those words were Griffin’s own, thrown back at him.

As she spoke, she pulled a proposal from her bag—the very project Holt Group had tried and failed to secure several times before. It was worth nearly a hundred million dollars. If Holt Group landed it, every previous loss would be erased, and their public offering would move ahead at full speed.

Both Griffin and Jotham’s eyes lit up. Griffin immediately reached for the proposal.

But Ramona drew it back, arching an eyebrow with a sigh.

“Seems like a pity,” she said quietly. “If we can’t meet each other halfway, there’s really no point in wasting any more time. I didn’t come here for nothing. As of today, I’m officially resigning from Holt Group.”

With that, she placed her ID badge and company belongings in front of Griffin.

His face went pale.

But Ramona didn’t give him a chance to speak, she stood up and headed for the door.

Jotham rushed after her, grabbing her arm. “Ramona, why are you being so impulsive? Can’t we talk this through like reasonable people? We’re family. Can’t you show my dad a little respect?”

“I don’t want to repeat myself,” Ramona replied, her voice cool and steady. “A real partnership requires good faith. You told me I’d get fifty percent, but this is nowhere close. If I back down now, how can I ever trust that I won’t be lied to or used again, no matter how hard I work for this company?”