The Real Heiress Strikes Back (Ashley and Dimitri) novel Chapter 19

Demitri paced his office, running a hand through his hair for what felt like the hundredth time. No matter how hard he tried to focus on the reports scattered across his desk, Ethan’s invitation to Ashley kept replaying in his mind.

Why would Ethan ask her out? he fumed silently.

He knew Ethan well enough to recognize the charm behind his smile. Ethan wasn’t just a business partner—he was a long-time acquaintance, the kind of man who thrived on competition and never hesitated to pursue what he wanted.

But what made Demitri’s blood boil was that Ethan didn’t know the truth. He had no idea that Emerald Donaldson, the poised and confident CEO he’d invited to dinner, was Demitri’s ex-wife.

Demitri grabbed his car keys, and his decision was made. Sitting around wouldn’t solve anything.

If Ethan thought he could waltz into Ashley’s life and whisk her away, he had another thing coming.

****

When Demitri arrived at Ethan’s office, he was greeted by a bright-eyed receptionist who looked up in surprise.

“Mr. Demitri” she exclaimed. “I wasn’t expecting you today.”

“Is Ethan in?” Demitri asked curtly.

The receptionist nodded. “Yes, sir. Do you have an appointment?”

Demitri gave her a tight smile. “I don’t need one.”

Without waiting for her response, he strode toward Ethan’s office. Their friendship granted him liberties others wouldn’t dare take, and today, he was going to make full use of them.

Ethan looked up from his desk as Demitri entered, his brow furrowing slightly.

“Demitri?” Ethan said, leaning back in his chair. “This is unexpected. We just saw each other an hour ago.”

Demitri closed the door behind him, his expression tense. “I need to talk to you.”

Ethan raised an eyebrow. “Sounds serious. What’s going on?”

Demitri didn’t waste time. “Why did you ask Ashley to dinner?”

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