"Come on," Aaron commanded, releasing her backpack strap and wrapping an arm around her shoulders to prevent her from easily wriggling free.

She struggled, but to no avail, all the way to the school's front gate. He practically tossed her into the back seat of his limousine and instructed the driver to go to an unfamiliar address.

"Where are we going?" Keeley asked, anger and nervousness battling for dominance in her head.

"You'll see," he said, then remained silent for the rest of the ride, just as he had last time.

"A chocolate shop?" she asked incredulously, shaking her head.

It wasn't just any chocolate shop; it was the most expensive one on Madison Avenue—a place she'd visited once in her past life while shopping with other socialites. Everything tasted exquisite, but a single bonbon cost about ten dollars. Assorted chocolate boxes ranged into the hundreds.

"What do you want?" Aaron asked coolly, producing his wallet.

"I couldn't possibly eat something so expensive," Keeley stammered.

What on earth was he doing? He'd dragged her halfway across the city for exorbitantly priced chocolatewhy? Because she'd cried? Impossible. Aaron had never shown that level of care, not even during their relationship's better days.

"Pick something, or I will," he said sternly.

"I really—"

"One medium box of assorted chocolates and a small bag of chocolate-covered oranges," he said, ignoring her and presenting his gold card to the cashier. It was astonishing that he had such a high credit limit while still in high school.

Keeley felt faint when she saw the total: $137. Her friends would be astounded. A $1.50 candy bar from a vending machine was usually beyond their means; even Keeley rarely had enough spare change for a Snickers.

"Eat," he said, directing her to a chair at one of the ornate metal tables near the front window.

"Why—" Keeley began, then stopped. There was no point arguing with him.

If he wanted to spend a fortune on chocolate, so be it. Besides, it was delicious. She abandoned her principles as she savored the rich, creamy fillings.

She tried to assess his mood—a skill honed over years—but was puzzled. He seemedhappy. He wasn't known for smiling, but his icy demeanor had softened slightly as he thoughtfully ate a chocolate-covered orange slice. Perhaps he'd wanted chocolate for himself and had dragged her along to impress her.

That seemed the most logical explanation. Other students practically rolled out the red carpet for Aaron. He likely wanted Keeley to idolize him, too. What better way than to flaunt his wealth? She wouldn't fall for it, though. Too many years had already been wasted on that lowlife.

"This is the best chocolate in Manhattan," he said, startling her.

"Yes, it's delicious," she agreed.

He was showing off, but she couldn't deny its quality.

She thanked him reluctantly; she knew her manners, even though she despised him.

"I'm glad you like it."

What?! This iceberg cared about her opinion? Since when? Her opinions had ceased to matter before their marriage in her last life. He must be lying.

Aaron Hale was beholden to no one. He didn't care about anyone who couldn't benefit him. Even Lacy…when he'd discussed the divorce, he'd never mentioned love, only her pregnancy. Keeley wasn't sure he was capable of it.

She sighed, ready to be direct. Whatever his interest, it needed to be addressed.

"Aaron, why did you bring me here? I don't understand."

His cool demeanor shifted. Was he nervous? "I don't need a reason."

Right. Her earlier belief—that he wanted her adoration—was strengthened. Apparently, that was motive enough.

"Whatever. Thanks for the treat, but I need to go home. My dad will be worried."

He flinched at the mention of her father, but she didn't notice, as she was searching for her phone. It was so late!

She said goodbye politely before rushing to the nearest subway station, leaving the chocolates behind. She didn't want to risk another one of his unpredictable outings.

Aaron rested his head in his hand and chuckled as he watched her flee. His Keeley was so resistant. He didn't understand, as she'd always run to him before, and he'd had to push her away to keep her safe.

She had to love him in this life. He'd do anything to make it happen, even if it meant turning her world upside down. He didn't care if she resented him.

This time, he wouldn't let Lacy's schemes interfere. Keeley would stay by his side. He would spoil her so much that no other man could compare. He could deal with the Knightons and his father later.

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