The Rival Pact

James Sterling was once my academic rival and childhood tormentor. Now he's the ice-cold Duke and single dad I'm forced to share an estate with.

I arrive at Sterling Hall to inspect the historic restoration, not to clash with the billionaire Duke who owns it. But he's arrogant and impossible and resents my presence.

We argue over building violations and play chess at night, our old rivalry flaring to life. James's sneer is familiar. It only disappears when he looks at his young daughter.

But then he learns my secret... We share the same interests in bed. Power exchanged. Limits negotiated. James has more experience and offers to teach me.

It's perfect. I don't have to worry about hurting his non-existent feelings. So we make a pact; pause the rivalry for practice sessions. On his jet. In the library. By the fireplace.

Piece by piece, I learn about his tough childhood, and how he judges himself harshest of all. And yet he's surprisingly good at praise and aftercare..

We agreed on no feelings and no future, but the way James looks at me makes me wonder if that's still true...