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Claire leaned against him, entwining her fingers with his. They fell silent for a few moments until she finally asked the question that was on her mind. “How did you get here? How did you get to this point in your life?”
He stared out the window, his fingers caressing the line of her neck. When he finally spoke, his voice sounded strange to his own ears. “I was 12 when my parents disappeared at sea,” he started. “It was their anniversary and they saved up for years to go. They weren’t wealthy; they were average, but like us, my father had an affinity with horses and made a good life for us.” He took a sip of his coffee before standing up and walking over to the sliding glass doors to watch the rain. “My aunt and uncle took me in. They made sure I had a good education and everything I needed.”
Claire tucked her legs under her on the couch. “Did the authorities ever find your parent's bodies?”
Alexander tucked his hands in the pockets of his slacks. “Eventually. Their bodies were so mangled that they were identified by their dental records.” He shrugged a little shift of his shoulders under his shirt. “My aunt and uncle were very strict, and my uncle was more interested in money and power…over caring for his family. I watched my cousins leave one by one to get away from him. And I watched my aunt just…diminish.” He swallowed hard at the memory. “She was a beautiful woman, my mother’s younger sister, and he just…took everything from her. Her joy. Her smile. All because he was more interested in power and privilege than he had ever gotten.” He lifted his chin. “I have a reputation, Claire because it’s very hard for me to learn to trust someone and give them my heart after watching what my aunt went through. I’ve worked tirelessly to get here, to gain the influence and wealth he wanted.” He snorted a bit. “Petty revenge on my part. I just never realized what it would cost me to get here.”
Claire stared at his back before finally unfolding herself from the couch and walking up behind him. She wrapped her arms around him, laying her cheek on his back. “I’m sorry, Alex,” she said.
“You didn’t do anything to apologize for. But you’ve made me see what I’ve been missing. And what I want.”
“Which is what?”
He smiled as he laid his hands over hers at his waist. “You. You brighten my world, Claire, and I don’t feel lonely or lost with you.” He pulled her around his body, standing her in front of him so he could wrap his arms around her and hold her. “You’re my light, Claire. And I will never allow it to diminish."
Chapter 7
Claire knew the “honeymoon” wouldn’t last long. She and Alexander had been seeing each other for almost five months when the other shoe finally dropped. All it took was a simple photograph, a stolen moment captured by a prying lens. It showed them in a very passionate embrace down at the pond on his property. She stared at the newspaper Tony brought her, her heart racing hard. “Oh boy. This is…this is not good.”
“Mr. Blackwood saw it this morning and blew his bloody stack. Went storming out of here mumbling something about the newspaper and the photographer getting a new boss and being shut down.” Tony sat down in the chair across from Claire. “Look, this isn’t the first time Mr. Blackwood’s personal life has come under fire. The hands and I will do what we can to help you keep your privacy so we can continue training. We’ve got a race this weekend, Claire. You’re running Joker’s Quest and Fortune Favors. It would be best if you focused on that. We’ll take care of the rest.”
Claire knew that Tony was right. She had to focus on the horses and the races. That’s what she was there for. Her relationship with Alexander was not a topic of discussion. “Make sure the hands know not to talk to anyone if they ask about Alexander and me.”
“You got it.” He stood. “You want me to gear up Fortune Favors?”
“Yeah. Thanks. I’ll be out in a bit.” She waited until Tony left her office before reading the newspaper article.
Scandalous Affair Shakes Equestrian World: Horse Trainer and Billionaire Exposed
Delaplane, Virginia – In an explosive revelation that has rocked both the equestrian community and the high society circles of Washington, DC, a scandalous affair between esteemed horse trainer Claire Reynolds and enigmatic billionaire Alexander Blackwood has come to light. The affair, which has been brewing under the radar for months, was uncovered by an anonymous source and has since been the talk of the town.
Secret Rendezvous and Stolen Moments
Details of the clandestine romance were first revealed when a series of intimate photos and private messages between Reynolds and Blackwood were leaked to the press. The photos, taken at various locations including Blackwood’s luxurious private estate, show the couple in passionate embraces, leaving little doubt about the nature of their relationship.
A Tale of Two Worlds Collide
Claire Reynolds, known for her exceptional skills and dedication in the world of horse training, has built a stellar reputation over the years as one of Virginia’s most prestigious trainers. Her expertise and commitment to her craft have earned her the respect and admiration of peers and clients alike.
Alexander Blackwood, on the other hand, is a well-known figure in the business world, with a reputation for his ruthless business acumen and a mysterious personal life. Blackwood’s vast empire spans multiple industries, from finance to real estate, making him one of the most powerful and influential figures in the country.
Public Reaction and Fallout
The revelation of their affair has sent shockwaves through their respective worlds. For Reynolds, the fallout has been swift and severe. The equestrian center where she once trained harness racers for Jonas Attlebury has come under intense scrutiny, with clients and sponsors questioning her professionalism and integrity. The whispers of favoritism and breaches of ethics are rampant, threatening to derail her career.
Blackwood’s business empire is also feeling the tremors. Investors and stakeholders are concerned about the potential impact on his professional image and the companies he leads. Allegations of corruption and clandestine alliances have resurfaced, casting a shadow over his business dealings and raising questions about his integrity.
An Affair Amidst Intrigue and Mystery
As the media frenzy continues, more details about Blackwood’s past are coming to light. Whispers of corruption, clandestine alliances, and a turbulent family history are beginning to emerge, painting a picture of a man whose life is far more complex and troubled than anyone could have imagined.
Despite the scandal, sources close to the couple suggest that their relationship is more than just a fleeting romance. Insiders describe a deep emotional connection between Reynolds and Blackwood, built on mutual respect and shared passions.
The Road Ahead
As the dust begins to settle, both Claire Reynolds and Alexander Blackwood face difficult choices about their future. Will they deny the affair and attempt to restore their tarnished reputations, or will they face the consequences of their actions and stand by their love?
In the face of public scrutiny and personal turmoil, one thing is clear: the story of Claire Reynolds and Alexander Blackwood is far from over. Their journey, fraught with challenges and intrigue, continues to captivate the world, leaving everyone wondering what the next chapter will hold.
