Falling for Mr. Secret Billionaire: A Second Chance Single Daddy Romance, page 1
Falling for Mr. Secret Billionaire
A Second Chance Single Daddy Romance
Gracie Sage
© Copyright 2023 by Gracie Sage - All rights reserved.
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Blurb
Ethan is not the average guy I thought he was, he’s a Billionaire.
And not just any kind of billionaire,
He’s the kind that has many secrets.
One we both share,
The intimacy we had in a moment of vulnerability
It lingers like an unspoken secret, a weight on my conscience
All this before I realized he was behind Blackwood Enterprises.
The organization I am currently investigating
Exposing him could mean my success as a journalist
But falling in love with him could be my failure.
And yet, I can’t stop thinking about him.
How he caressed every inch of my body,
The way his lips feel against mine.
Will he ever forgive me for exposing his truth?
Can he truly understand me?
I can’t allow my emotions to take over.
I have to see this through, even if I lose the only love in my life.
Contents
1. Chapter 1
2. Chapter 2
3. Chapter 3
4. Chapter 4
5. Chapter 5
6. Chapter 6
7. Chapter 7
8. Chapter 8
9. Chapter 9
10. Chapter 10
11. Chapter 11
12. Chapter 12
13. Chapter 13
14. Chapter 14
15. Chapter 15
16. Chapter 16
17. Chapter 17
18. Chapter 18
19. Chapter 19
20. Chapter 20
21. Chapter 21
22. Chapter 22
23. Chapter 23
24. Chapter 24
25. Chapter 25
26. Chapter 26
27. Chapter 27
28. Chapter 28
29. Epilogue
30. Did you like this book?
31. Sneak Peak
32. Do you like FREE Romance Novels?
Chapter 1
Morgan
I'm Morgan Henry, an ambitious twenty-seven-year-old journalist. You probably don’t know who I am, but that is the nature of my job after all, and I guarantee you’ve read plenty of my eye-opening exposure stories.
That story about that movie producer who was caught with cocaine and two escorts?
That was me.
The one about the oil company billionaire who was involved in trafficking?
Also, me.
Due to the sensitive nature of my job, I work as hard as I can to keep my identity a secret, often using a different name, or wearing wigs to disguise myself. It is the one thing keeping me alive most days.
Right now, I'm standing before a floor-to-ceiling window in our office common room as I sip my coffee. My eyes are fixed on the glittering city skyline of New York. The room exudes an air of opulence, a stark contrast to the chaos that consumes my mind.
In the world of journalism, I'm a force to be reckoned with.
I work for the esteemed Global Reporters Network, a company that prides itself on exposing the truth, unearthing scandals, and holding the powerful accountable.
As an investigative reporter, I thrive on uncovering the hidden stories that lurk beneath the surface. The adrenaline at the end of it all is unmatched. I would liken it to Scooby Doo and the gang, but with higher stakes. In my line of business, I have come to learn that people are not always as they seem. Situations are never predictable.
My determination has earned me the respect of my peers and the trust of my editor-in-chief, Daniel. Together, we form an unstoppable team, delving into the depths of corruption, our pens poised to rewrite the narrative of those who think themselves untouchable. And by my side, capturing the truth through the lens, is my trusted partner and sidekick, the talented photographer Jake Walker. We've seen each other at our best and our worst, providing unwavering support and encouragement when the weight of our work threatens to consume us.
Jake's photography has become an integral part of our storytelling. His images capture the essence of our investigations, lending a visual dimension to the narratives we weave. Through his lens, he exposes the raw emotions, the hidden details, and the moments that words alone cannot fully capture.
Together, we've exposed corruption, shed light on human rights abuses, and brought down those who believed themselves untouchable. Our partnership is built on a shared purpose - to hold the powerful accountable and give a voice to the voiceless.
But with our partnership comes sacrifice. We've both given up personal relationships and put our lives on hold in the pursuit of justice. Our work has consumed us, leaving little room for anything else. Yet, we've never questioned our commitment to the cause. The truth is our driving force, and we're willing to pay whatever price necessary to bring it to light.
As I stand here, lost in thought, my phone suddenly rings, jolting me back to reality. It's Daniel on the line, his voice booming with urgency. "I need that report on the Wall Street scandal ASAP, Morgan," he says. "We can't afford to let this story slip away."
The Wall Street scandal has sent shockwaves through the financial world, shaking the very foundations of trust and integrity. It revolves around a high-profile investment firm - Gorge Bills - that had long been hailed as an industry titan - a symbol of success and stability.
But beneath the glossy exterior and impressive profits, a web of deceit had been woven. Unbeknownst to investors and the general public, the firm had engaged in fraudulent practices, manipulating financial data and misleading stakeholders to maintain an illusion of success.
Rumors about the firm's questionable practices had been circulating for months, whispered in the shadows of Wall Street's bustling corridors. As journalists, we had been tracking down the murmurs, and digging for concrete evidence to expose the truth.
Months of relentless investigation led us to uncover a series of damning documents and insider testimonies. We had managed to piece together a comprehensive narrative that outlined the firm's deceptive practices, the scale of which was unprecedented.
Through meticulous research, we discovered how the firm had falsified financial reports, inflated profits, and manipulated stock prices to lure in unsuspecting investors.
I take a deep breath, my determination resurfacing. "Of course, sir," I reply, my voice laced with unwavering resolve. "I'm on it. Jake and I are heading to the heart of the financial district as we speak."
Jake who is sitting across from me scrolling through his phone perks up.
The urgency in Daniel's tone is palpable. Global Reporters Network has reportedly recently faced financial setbacks, and we need a groundbreaking story to restore our reputation and secure our future. I'm their best hope, the fearless journalist who always delivers.
As I slip my phone back into my pocket, I push aside any doubts or personal concerns. There's no time for hesitation. I know what I have to do. Jake and I exchange a determined glance, and without wasting another second, we leave.
I pull out my notebook, recorder, and the ginger wig I will be wearing for the operation. I am going in as an interested investor, and Jake is playing the part of my faithful but very wealthy boyfriend.
We navigate through the bustling streets of New York, the city alive with energy and opportunity. Everywhere I look, stories are waiting to be told, secrets begging to be unraveled.
Arriving at the heart of the financial district, surrounded by towering skyscrapers that symbolize power and wealth, we know we're getting closer to the truth. Inside the prestigious investment firm, the atmosphere is tense, as if the very walls are holding their breath, waiting for the revelation.
After sitting in
Hours turn into a blur as we work tirelessly, determined to uncover the truth. But little do we know that our presence hasn't gone unnoticed. Unbeknownst to us, someone tipped off the authorities, and as we prepare to leave with the damning evidence, the last nail in the coffin for the company, we find ourselves surrounded by law enforcement.
Panic surges through my veins as I realize the gravity of the situation. Our relentless pursuit has led us straight into a trap. Jake and I exchange a tense glance, both realizing that our mission to expose the truth has taken an unexpected turn.
As handcuffs are placed around our wrists, I can't help but feel a mix of frustration and defiance. The truth may be temporarily silenced, but it won't stay buried forever. I'm determined to face the consequences head-on, knowing that even from behind bars, the pursuit of truth and justice will never be extinguished.
As we're escorted out of the investment firm, I catch a glimpse of Daniel watching from afar, his face etched with concern and regret. I wonder if he anticipated this outcome and if he understood the risks involved. But there's no time for reflection now. The next chapter awaits, and whatever lies ahead, I'll face it with the same unwavering resolve that has defined me as a journalist.
The story continues, even if it takes an unexpected turn. My determination remains unyielding, and my commitment to exposing the truth is unbroken. As Jake and I are led away, I know that the fight for justice is far from over. With that thought, I prepare myself for the next chapter of this gripping tale.
In the police car, I sit beside Jake, both of us confined by the handcuffs that bind us.
The officer turns around, his expression stern. "You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law. You have the right to an attorney..."
The words of the ‘Miranda Rights’ echo through the confines of the car, a stark reminder of the precarious position we find ourselves in. I lean back, my mind racing with thoughts of how this will affect our investigation, and our quest for justice.
As the car pulls away from the curb, I can't help but feel a mix of determination and frustration. We may be facing a setback, but we won't let it deter us.
The drive to the police station is a somber one. Thoughts swirl in my mind, questions and uncertainties that demand answers. How did we get here? Who betrayed us? Most importantly, how will this impact the fight for truth and justice?
As we're escorted into the station, I catch glimpses of curious onlookers, their gazes filled with a mix of judgment and intrigue. We're no longer the relentless journalists seeking the truth; we're the accused, the ones who have become entangled in the very story we sought to unravel.
The interrogation room is cold and sterile, the bright lights casting an unforgiving glow on our faces. Detectives exchange glances, their expressions unreadable. I know they're waiting for us to break, to reveal our sources, and to abandon our commitment to the truth.
But they underestimate our resolve. Jake and I lock eyes, a silent pact passing between us. We won't waver. We won't compromise the principles that led us down this path. We'll weather this storm, and when we emerge on the other side, the pursuit of justice will continue.
Chapter 2
Ethan
Sitting behind my expansive mahogany desk, I survey the sleek and modern office that belongs to Blackwood Industries. This is my domain, my sanctuary atop the world of wealth and power. The city's rhythmic symphony seeps through the window, intertwining with the beat of my heart. It's a constant reminder of the energy that pulses through the veins of this metropolis, and the role I play in shaping its destiny.
I run a hand through my dark hair, the strands falling back into place with perfect precision. My piercing blue eyes scan the room, taking in the meticulously organized files and the polished surfaces that reflect my ambition. Blackwood Industries, my multi-billion-dollar empire, stands as a testament to my determination and relentless pursuit of success.
As I sit here, I can't help but reflect on the journey that brought me to this moment. The sacrifices, the late nights, the moments of uncertainty. It's been a rollercoaster ride, but one I wouldn't trade for anything; except maybe for her. I shake my head, clearing the bitter memory away.
I thrive on the exhilaration of the business world, and the adrenaline rush of making deals and taking risks. Some things however make me momentarily get blindsided by my ambitions.
But just as I'm about to indulge in a moment of reflection, my phone vibrates relentlessly in my pocket, jolting me back to the present. With a sigh, I retrieve the device and glance at the screen. A series of notifications and messages demand my attention, pulling me away from the tranquility of my thoughts.
There's always something demanding my focus, a never-ending stream of challenges and opportunities. It's both exhilarating and exhausting, but it's the price I pay for being at the top. I navigate through the messages, swiftly responding to urgent matters and delegating tasks to my trusted team.
Time is of the essence, as always. I check my schedule, noting the impending meeting with one of our biggest investors. The success of Blackwood Industries relies on fostering relationships with talented individuals who can bring their stories to life. It's a delicate balance, one that requires finesse and vision.
But before I delve into the complexities of the business world, I know I need my daily dose of caffeine. It's a ritual, a momentary respite amidst the chaos. I rise from my chair, straightening my suit with a swift motion. As I stride towards the door, I catch a glimpse of myself in the mirror - a reflection of power and determination.
Stepping out into the bustling city, I blend seamlessly into the currents of people rushing to their destinations. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee beckons me, guiding my footsteps to a nearby café. It's here that I find solace, even if only for a brief moment, amidst the aroma of roasted beans and the symphony of clinking cups.
I order my usual, a strong espresso, and lean against the counter, observing the flurry of activity around me. People talk, laugh, and exchange stories, each with their dreams and ambitions. It's a reminder that we're all connected and that our paths intersect in ways we may never fully comprehend.
As I take my first sip of the rich, black liquid, I feel a surge of energy coursing through my veins. It fuels my relentless pursuit of the truth and my unwavering dedication to my craft. At this moment, I am ready to face whatever challenges lie ahead, armed with the confidence and determination that have brought me to this pinnacle of success.
The bustling sounds of the city filter in, intermingling with the pounding of my heart. This is just the beginning of my story, a narrative that unfolds with every decision I make, every relationship I cultivate, and every risk I take. The city spreads out before me, a sea of possibilities, and I am its master, ready to shape its destiny with an unwavering hand.
I finish my coffee, the last drop sliding down my throat, leaving behind a lingering taste of ambition. With renewed vigor, I step out of the café and into the current of the city, my mind already racing with strategies and visions for the future. There's no time to waste - I am Ethan Blackwood, and the world is mine for the taking.
I am about to cross the sidewalk when I am brought to a stop by a loud vibration in my pocket.
As my fingers graze the smooth surface of my phone, I draw it out of my pocket, revealing the familiar wallpaper that fills my heart with both joy and longing. It's a picture of my six-year-old daughter, Mia, her toothy grin and sparkling blue eyes radiating pure mirth. Every time I look at her, I see glimpses of her mother in her hair and face, a bittersweet reminder of what once was.
With a pang in my chest, I swipe to answer the call, preparing myself for whatever news awaits me on the other end of the line. The voice on the other line is deep and authoritative, a tone that demands attention and respect. It's a voice that I've grown accustomed to in the world I inhabit.
