A Billionaire Story: Hearts Beyond

Chapter 1: Golden Chains

Elias Hawthorne stood at the window of his penthouse overlooking Central Park, the buster ling city below a mere backdrop to the heavy thought swirling in his mind. As the sole heir to Hawthorne Enterprises, a global conglomerate founded by his grandfather, Elias had one primary duty: to marry Elizabeth Montgomery, his childhood best friend and daughter of his father closest confidant. Their union was an agreement forged between two powerful families, an alliance that would strengthen their hold over the elite society of New York. He should have felt ecstatic about his impending engagement to Elizabeth, the perfect match according to his parents. They had been groomed for this moment since they were children, their fates intertwined like the ivy climbing the walls of their elite social circles.

But as he looked out at the sun setting over the horizon, painting the sky with hues of orange and pink, Elias realized he was suffocating. With every passing day, he felt disconnected from the life being planned for him. The weight of his family's expectation bore down heavier upon his heart. He appreciated Elizabeth's unwavering loyalty and friendship, but love? It was merely an obligation dictated by family tradition

He glanced over at Elizabeth, a beautiful and poised young woman with sharp intellect and striking features, sitting gracefully in a plush chair by the fireplace, her laughter ringing like soft chimes. A perfect match in every way except for the most important one. She did not ignite a spark in his heart; they were merely friends, their connection built on long-standing tradition rather than love. She did not challenge him or inspire him. In fact, their conversation often drifted into mundane, and Elias found himself longing for something... more.