Emily’s Dilemma: Seduced by Billionaire Brothers

*Some college years ago*

It was late fall in Brown University and the evening bustled with the thrum of anticipation as the annual Fall Fest gathered momentum. The university grounds became a patchwork of vibrant sights as chapters shifted from late summer narratives to tales wrapped in crisp parchment of fall. Laughter danced on the cool breeze that weaved between red-brick buildings and cast amber leaves in whimsical pirouettes to the ground.Exclusive content © by Nô(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.

A senior year Ethan and a sophomore Jackson found themselves in the heart of this revelry, standing outside the ivy-laced entrance of the old Assembly Hall, now ablaze with strings of fairy lights and pulsing with the beat of music that spilled out onto the steps. Underneath the glow, their sibling resemblance was more pronounced-their shared grin, the same skyward tilt to their chins. But still that undercurrent rivalry that always kept them just a fraction apart brewed in their midst-a silent battle of charm and wit, forged deeper by their mutual affection for one fiercely independent Amelia Sinclair.

Amelia, with her raven hair that tumbled in waves over her shoulders, had a laugh that could turn the world on its axis. Tonight, she was dressed in the color of twilight, her dress reflecting hues of the fading sun against the night sky, her eyes sparkling with a fire that drew both admiration and intrigue.

Amelia Sinclair was equally a sophomore and Jackson’s best friend since high school. Rich conglomerate family, only child of her parents and rebellious enough to want to break out on her own, but that didn’t mean she couldn’t smell like Chanel and rock designer clothing every now and then. It wasn’t news that Jackson had the biggest crush on Amelia, everyone knew even Amelia her self knew it but she wasn’t interested in his ginger hair, mysterious aura and dark eyes that admired her every now and then, not when she had the biggest crush on his brother and would do anything to have him – Ethan Hatton.

Anita Brown, Amelia’s roommate, wove her arm through Amelia’s as they approached Ethan and Jackson. With a fiery mane and striking hazel eyes, Anita possessed an authoritative warmth that made her just as captivating. The two girls were a vision of contrast and complement, a duality that defined their deep bond. Anita just a year older than Amelia, treated her like the sister she never had, both girls finding comfort and sisterhood in themselves.

As the group met, Amelia’s ever chattering self sidled over to Jackson, a playful hand around his shoulder as she was nearly as tall as him.

“You look like you lost someone, here drink up” she pushed her red plastic cup into his hands offering him a smile

“You’re exceptionally giddy” he said to her and Anita responded.

“She’s high, as always”

Amelia gave a hearty laugh, as her gaze lingered on Ethan a moment too long who was quiet.

“Hi Ethan” she greeted and he greeted back with a charming quip that drew a delighted chortle from her – oh how much she was in love with him but he had no idea but Anita could guess as her eyes were ever roaming. She playfully nudged Amelia, her eyes dancing with mischief.

“You like him don’t you?” Anita said, pulling her away from the duo to get more drinks.

“Isn’t he the hottest guy ever” Amelia gushed and Anita rolled her eyes secretly, but Amelia was distracted already bobbing her head to the beat of the music and cheerfully greeting other people, an act that annoyed Anita greatly because she wasn’t that friendly and Amelia had lots of other friends, but she only had Amelia.

“What of Jackson? He clearly likes you” Anita said again and Amelia laughed. They reached the drinks table and Amelia was filling her cup

“We’re just friends, we’ve known each other since when, middle school? I don’t see him that way but Ethan is the forbidden fruit I want to take a bite out of, no in fact I want his whole tree to myself”

Anita chuckled nervously, bringing her cup to her lips until suddenly she lit up with a bright idea

“I’ll help you get him” Anita said

“How so?”

“You’re many things Amelia but you’re not a seductress, allow me to teach you the subtle art of seduction”

***

About a week later, Emily was finally discharged from the hospital still with half her memories gone and a dull ache that never seemed to go away. Each time she tried to recall those memories, it felt like reaching for the light at the end of the tunnel except that she was trapped in place and unable to move.

“Who was that guy at the hospital, the one I couldn’t remember” she tried to ask Ethan when they got to the penthouse and he had placed her comfortably on the bed. She wasn’t sure why it bothered her so much, but there was something about his look, the pain in his eyes when he looked at her.

“No one you should worry about” Ethan said but his eyes didn’t meet hers, he looked distracted, like his mind was elsewhere but Emily was determined.

“His name at least” she urged but Ethan stayed quiet and typing away on his phone, completely ignoring her and Emily could feel her annoyance rising but she kept it at bay

“What happened before the accident Ethan?” She asked again and this time Ethan looked up at her, with an eyebrow raised.

“The doctor said not to talk about that”

“I don’t care what the doctor says, I need to remember something. My head is blank and it’s frustrating” she yelled angrily but Ethan just blankly stared at her, although his eyes narrowing in surprise at her outburst. He stretched out his hands simply to caress her face, her soft skin responding to his touch even though the frustration still flared in her eyes.

“You should rest some more, you’ll feel better” he said simply and left the room, leaving her even more frustrated.