How to Hunt a Billionaire ✔️

Step 61: LIKE him

"Because... I like you. I f*cking like you."

Two thoughts went through my mind at that moment.
1. Khmsjnxbshma f*ck yes
2. Alert! He's lying.

"Are you serious?" I said hesitantly. "I've already told you - I'm done with games."

He stepped closer. "I have nothing else to lose, Ashley. I've already lost you."

"Your family hate me."

"They're more upset that it wasn't real," he assured me. He cupped my cheek in his hand gently. "I want you. No games. No contract. Just you and I."

"But..." I moved his fingers from my face. "I don't want that anymore."

"What?"

"We'll finish the deal - it ends at midnight. Then we can go our separate ways."

He broke eye contact with me and stepped back. "And you're certain that's what you want?"

"It's what we both need. You don't like me," I said despite the pain I felt. "You're confused and soon you'll forget about me."

"But what if I don't?"

"You will."

"Ash-"

"Five!" People were counting down for the New Year which could be heard from where we were. "Four!"

"Whether you like it or not, we're not over," Ethan promised.

"Three!"

He pulled me towards him.

"Two!"

Tilting my chin upwards, hazel eyes met green ones.

"One! Happy New Year!"

Any distance between us disappeared as he pressed his lips against mine. The kiss started off innocent but my body wanted more of him like an addiction. His hands roamed over my dress, heating up their path while my arms wrapped themselves around his neck, bringing him closer.

Time had no meaning and I was barely aware of my surroundings until I felt my back hit the wall and I was lifted so my legs were around him. I didn't want the moment to end, I didn't want to leave him. Ethan broke the kiss, leaving me breathless.

"What are you doing?" I whispered, not understanding why he stopped.

"The deal's complete," he stated.

"Huh?" Realization hit me. "I-I-"

He stopped me from speaking by kissing me briefly then releasing me. "Happy New Year."

"F*ck you," I muttered.

He smiled. "Don't miss me too much."

"I won't. I'll find an actual boyfriend," I lied.

"Sure," he said before walking away.

"That's it?" I yelled at his back.

"Bye."

I stomped my foot when he left. "I f*cking hate that guy," I growled then went to join the party.  There was no sight of Ethan anywhere but I had a clear view of the bar and after a quick text to my brother, I began drinking.