Carter Cullen
CARTER
I loosened my tie and leaned back in my leather chair. My desk was buried under magazines and newspapers, and once again, my face was on every cover. I stared at the bold headlines and scoffed.
“The Heartless CEO.”
“Billionaire Playboy: CC.”
“The Rudest Man in the City.”
People call me these names for two reasons. First, I am cold and strict at work. Second, the paparazzi catch me with a different woman every week. Honestly? The headlines are right. I am heartless. I don’t believe in using emotions for business or relationships. To me, feelings are just a weakness.
My phone vibrated on the desk. I saw the caller ID and exhaled a long breath.
"Mother," I said, picking up.
"Carter, where are you? We are waiting!" she snapped. "Why aren't you home yet?"
"I told you not to wait for me," I replied, rubbing my temples.
"We are done with this discussion," she said in a tone that meant business. "You are meeting Mila and her family today. She’s an old childhood friend."
"I don't remember any friends except Emma," I sighed. "And Mom, for the last time—I’m not marrying some random girl just because she’s your friend's daughter."
My parents have been trying to set me up for months. They are tired of my reputation. None of my girlfriends last more than four weeks. My father was very clear: if I want to own the entire Cullen Empire, I have to get married and show I am "responsible." He refuses to give his wealth to a man who isn't serious about his personal life.
"Stop complaining," Mom warned. "And don't you dare mention Emma's name tonight."
"I don't want more drama, Mom," I said. Every girl they introduce me to is worse than the last—needy, loud, or only interested in my bank account.
"Carter, listen to me," she said, her voice dropping. "This is about the company. The Empire belongs to you, but only if you play by the rules."
She hit the right nerve. I have spent four years working through the night, barely sleeping, to make Cullen Corp the success it is today. I wasn't going to lose it all now.
"Fine," I muttered, closing my eyes. "I'm coming home. I have something serious to tell you and Dad anyway."
I hung up and grabbed my keys.
As I drove through the city lights, my mind drifted back to Emma. We went to the same school, and back then, I had a huge crush on her that I never had the courage to confess. It wasn't until years later, when we met again at an auction, that I finally told her how I felt. I wanted us to be together right then, but Emma was practical. She didn't want to rush into a long-distance relationship while she was away. Instead, she asked me to wait for two years. Those two years are almost up, and she is the only woman I’ve ever truly wanted. I’ve tried reaching out to her lately, but she always seems too busy with work to give me much time.
❤️...
