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Chapter 6. Fleeting Temptations

6. Fleeting Temptations

Travis King's POV

I was completely fatigued after working nonstop for the last 26 hours. To find solace, I turned off my computer and opted to indulge in my favorite hobby.

I'm Travis Armanio King, the CEO of 'Wynter Corporation,' one of the largest and most prominent foundations in New York City. I had thrown my heart and soul into establishing this company from the ground up, a three-year labor of unflinching commitment, sweat, and uncompromising hard work.

I hurriedly packed my belongings and flew to the airport, eager to follow what brought me the most delight. Even though I generally have my private jet at my disposal, I occasionally dabble in flying as a hobby. On this particular day, though, I felt a primal urge to break free from the norm.

"Jacob, please prepare for my departure; I'm flying today," I told my dependable secretary.

"Of course," Mr. King says. "Do you want me to make the necessary arrangements for your jet?" Jacob enquired, his efficiency and attention to detail undiminished.

"There's no need for the jet this time. "Just get me to the airport and I'll be back on the same flight," I told Jacob. I had great faith in his talents because he had meticulously handled my calendar since the beginning of my company empire.

"All right, Mr. King. "I'll also make certain that all safety precautions are in place," Jacob informed me before departing to make the appropriate preparations.

I was directed to catch a flight to Chicago, which was fortuitous as I was in no mood for an extended journey.


I arrived in Chicago without any issues and decided to step outside to enjoy some fresh air. I knew I would have to return soon. My purpose for being here was clear.

After a bit of shopping for personal necessities, I took some time to rest before my return flight. It was crucial to provide the standard safety instructions at the start of each flight, a duty I took seriously.

As I strolled through the bustling airport, I couldn't help but notice a few lingering glances, filled with desire. Nevertheless, I felt relieved that most of the people around me were oblivious to my true identity. I preferred to keep my wealth private, avoiding the ostentatious displays that often came with it.

However, a sudden, intense gaze pulled my attention away from my thoughts. I scanned the crowd, searching for the source of this unwavering stare.

My eyes widened as they settled on a striking brunette with the most innocent-looking eyes I had ever seen. I couldn't tear my gaze away from the sparkle in her eyes; it was as if she had glimpsed an angel sent from heaven.

Tears glistened in her eyes, yet they hadn't yet dried. I couldn't explain why, but an overwhelming desire to comfort her surged within me. I yearned to kiss away those pearls of sorrow, and my heart threatened to burst with emotion.

Then, abruptly, I snapped out of my trance. These feelings weren't meant for me. I had already played this dangerous game before, and it had cost me dearly. I couldn't risk everything I owned, including my heart, once more.

"I have a girlfriend," I reminded myself sternly. I buried my emotions, projecting an air of disgust towards her, as though her very presence repelled me.

I stepped into my cabin, but my thoughts remained ensnared by her. Throughout the day, she occupied my mind like an enchanting melody. When I spoke through the intercom, an inexplicable joy surged within me at the notion that she might be listening.

It wasn't my place to pry, yet I couldn't help but wonder what had brought her to Chicago when her home was in bustling New York City.

Her outward demeanor exuded a composed tranquility, but her eyes revealed a different story. They held an unfathomable depth, as though they had weathered storms far more turbulent than her calm exterior suggested.

Normally, I'm not one to discern much about a person merely from their expression or appearance—trust me, I'm rather inept at it. Even if they wore their emotions on their sleeve, I'd likely struggle to decipher their true sentiments.

But she was an exception, like an open book I could peruse endlessly. I chastised myself, reminding me, "I shouldn't dwell on her. I have a girlfriend."

"Are you okay, Sir?" My copilot's voice broke through my reverie. Had I unintentionally vocalized my inner musings?

"Yes... yes, I'm fine," I replied, dismissing him with a wave of my hand.


I steeled myself not to look at her as the aircraft landed. My plan was clear, and I kept my gaze straight ahead, though I could still sense her presence in my peripheral vision. The temptation to turn and face her was strong, but I knew I couldn't, not after locking eyes with her.

The question gnawed at me: Why was she pursuing me? Was she just like the other girls who had recognized me, drawn by my fame? A horde of admirers had already started to cling to me, eager for a piece of the celebrity they believed I was. I longed to escape their relentless attention. My team was closing in, ready to whisk them away, but I motioned for them to stand down.

"Maybe she won't approach me now," I reasoned with myself. She appeared delicate, and I knew that I had a history of breaking hearts and ruining lives, as I always did.

Helen, on the other hand, was the logical choice for me. Our collaboration was crucial for my company's growth. Her family held a significant stake in my business, and getting along with her was a mutually beneficial arrangement. She possessed a natural beauty that could captivate any man, and her education and sophistication were undeniable assets.

"This is just infatuation," I reminded myself as I glanced back to see if she was still standing there. To my relief, she had vanished, just as I had anticipated. I hoped fervently that our paths would never cross again.

As I walked away, I couldn't help but wonder about the complex web of fate and desire that had brought us together, if only for a fleeting moment.


As I prepared to go to bed, my phone buzzed on the nightstand.

"Are you truly sure, Jacob?" I took up the phone.

"Please accept my apologies, Mr. King. I forgot to forward the Summit Council's invitation to the annual meeting," Jacob explained.

"Please send me the dates. Please clear my schedule for those days once it's completed," I asked.

"After two days of meticulous planning, everything has been arranged exactly according to your specifications, Mr. King," Jacob assured.

"Make sure there are no disruptions; you understand how important this event is to me," I reminded him.

"Rest assured, Mr. King, and have a peaceful night."

As I put my phone back on the nightstand, I couldn't help but think about the significance of the upcoming event. I was soon to be honored with the title of "Entrepreneur of the Decade."

I attempted to sleep, but my mind kept returning to a certain brunette. I tried to justify my actions and erase her from my thoughts. Despite my heart's objections, I had acted in what I believed was the right way at the time.

"Helen? Are you available?" I asked, grabbing my keys and adding, "Get ready; I'm on my way."


Author's Note

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