Ruin (Rhodes #1) by Rina Kent

                             My room is the only place where I can remove the mask of fake happiness and embrace the new me. The me who could be going crazy with over-thinking.

                             I throw my handbag somewhere on the ground and slump on the bed. The pink curtains cast a glowing shadow in my room, highlighting the scattered clothes across the floor and the documents on the chair. A small laugh leaves my lips. So unlike Aaron’s OCD room. The laugh soon turns into trembling lips. My fists clench and I push my hair back.

                             I won’t cry. Not today.

                             No matter how much I reprimand myself, I can’t control it. Time heals everything my butt. It’s been six months and my state is getting worse by the day.

                             A knock on the door brings me to reality.

                             “Come in.”

                             “Honey.” Mum walks inside, a tray of chocolate cake in hand.

                             I smile, swallowing the memories of Aaron and his chocolate cakes. “Thanks, Mum.”

                             She sits beside me as I nibble at a piece. “Are you going to accept the exhibition’s request? They were fascinated with your work.”

                             I stop chewing then resume. “I don’t know. I don’t think I’m ready to reveal this collection.”

                             Mum’s eyes glint. “I’m sure you will do well no matter what you choose.” She smiles, seeming drowned in another world. “You’re like your father that way. He always worked hard to get what he wants.”

                             I put the half-eaten piece of chocolate cake back on to the plate. “Mum, how did you know Dad was the one? You’re dissimilar. You’re an artist, he’s analytical. There are hardly any hobbies you share.”

                             She releases a small breath, her gaze reminiscent. “I looked into his eyes and decided I wanted to wake up to them for the rest of my life. It’s our differences that taught us how to sacrifice.” She pauses, expression morphing to suspicion. “Why are you asking? Did you meet someone?”

                             “Maybe.” I chew on my bottom lip. “Actually, I know he’s the one, but I don’t know if we will ever work.” I sniff back tears. “It’s another case of loving someone enough to let them go.”

                             Mum’s hands wrap around my shoulders. “Oh, honey.” She rubs my skin, her voice soft. “Don’t force it. Everything is better in its own time.”

                             Wiping my eyes, I nod and offer her a reassuring smile.

                             When Mum leaves, I open my laptop. Google stares at me and I stare back. I always wanted to do this and never had the courage.

                             Ugh. Okay here we go.

                             Since I don’t know his last name, I first search Aaron. There are many Aarons. When I add Tristan and aristocracy, articles flow. Aaron Rhodes. He’s a Rhodes? I know that name. They’re one of the biggest business companies in the country. I learnt that from attending Dad’s conferences.

                             Aaron holds the title of an earl. Tristan is a duke.

                             Their long-term partner is Dylan Hart who holds the title of a Marquis.