ã€ŠThe Billionaire And His One Night Standã€‹


 1

    New York, Mia.

    I hate hospitals. I hate being sick. And I hate going to the doctor. If it were up to me I would just throw my health out of the window.

    I looked at Doctor Brynn and busted outughing. Doctor Brynn, a stern, middle-aged man with salt-and-pepper hair and a pair of sses perched on the bridge of his nose, cocked an eyebrow at me. ¡°What¡¯s so funny, Ms. Anderson?¡± he inquired, his toneced with a hint of curiosity and a dash of annoyance.

    I couldn¡¯t contain myughter; it bubbled up from deep within me, making my shoulders shake as I snorted in mirth. To be honest, everything was funny at that moment. It was a mixture of nervousness, disbelief, and a bizarre sense of humor that had taken over me.

    ¡°You will not beughing like this when you are going to push that baby out,¡± Doctor Brynn said with a wry smile, as he scribbled down something on his cluttered agenda. His words only made meugh harder, tears streaming down my cheeks.

    ¡°I will not beughing because I will not have a baby,¡± I managed to say between fits of giggles as I wiped the tears from the corners of my eyes. I couldn¡¯t help but feel that this whole situation was surreal.

    Doctor Brynn¡¯s face turned serious as he looked at me intently. ¡°Are you nning to abort it?¡± he asked, his voice gentle yet probing. ¡°It¡¯s a big decision, and I¡¯m here to help if you need guidance.¡±

    I stared at him incredulously, myughter subsiding as confusion and disbelief took over. What was this man thinking? ¡°I¡¯m not going to have an abortion,¡± I replied firmly. ¡°I¡¯m not sure what type of drugs you are on, doctor, but I cannot be pregnant.¡± I reached for my bag, a growing sense of urgency to leave this bizarre situation tugging at me. The longer I stayed in that office, the funnier it all seemed.

    Doctor Brynn leaned forward, his expression growing more concerned. ¡°If there¡¯s someone on drugs right now, Ms. Anderson, it¡¯s you.¡± He sighed, clearly worried about my mental state.

    I shook my head, trying to regain some semnce ofposure. ¡°I cannot be pregnant, Doctor. My pre-marital medical report indicated that I am infertile.¡± The word ¡®infertile¡¯ left a bitter taste in my mouth. ¡°And the definition of being infertile is that I cannot be with child, if you must know.¡± This time something in my heart tugged. It was a painful feeling.

    ¡°I¡¯m a doctor, Ms. Anderson. If I wouldn¡¯t know that, you would not be calmly sitting here. That report merely stated there was a potential infertility issue between you and your partner,¡± Doctor Brynn reiterated, his tone calm and measured. ¡°Since you are now pregnant, it¡¯s evident that the problem likely lies with your ex-partner¡¯s sperm quality. You are very much fertile, Ms. Anderson.¡±

    I couldn¡¯t believe what I was hearing. It was as if the ground had shifted beneath me, and I was struggling to find my footing. So all this time my ex-husband was responsible for the fertility issue in our rtionship. It was a bitter twist of fate, and it left me feeling a strange mix of emotions.

    ¡°Tell me you are kidding, doctor.¡± I could feel my emotions swirling inside me, from shock to anger to sadness, all fighting for dominance.

    Doctor Brynn, with his characteristic calm demeanor, took a deep breath. ¡°Ms. Anderson, I¡¯ve been in this field for over ten years now. What you¡¯re experiencing right now, the emotional rollercoaster, those are your pregnancy hormones at work.¡±

    My mind was still a haze as I tried to process everything. ¡°So you¡¯re telling me that all this time it was my ex-husband who had a problem and not me?¡± I couldn¡¯t help but feel a glimmer of triumph amidst the chaos. It was like karma had decided to y a hand in my life, and it felt oddly satisfying.

    Doctor Brynn shook his head, his expression sympathetic. ¡°Yes, he was very much the problem,¡± he confirmed. ¡°It¡¯s evident that the problem lies with your ex-partner¡¯s sperm quality. You are very much fertile, Ms. Anderson.¡±Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.

    ¡°Yes, karma is a sweet bitch,¡± I muttered under my breath, a small smile ying on my lips. Doctor Brynn shot me a look that seemed to say, ¡°Are you serious?¡± His professionalism was unwavering, even in the face of my unusual reaction.

    ¡°Ms. Anderson,¡± he said, his tone gentle yet firm, ¡°I think it¡¯s time to go home and tell your partner about this new addition to the family. We will schedule your next appointment for one month from now.¡±

    My partner. Pregnant. The thought swirled in my mind, and I wanted to pull my hair out in frustration. ¡°Ughh,¡± I groaned, unable to contain my exasperation.

    Doctor Brynn raised an eyebrow, clearly curious about my sudden distress. ¡°What is it now, Ms. Anderson?¡± he asked with a sigh, preparing himself for another unexpected twist in this strange tale.

    ¡°It was a one-night stand,¡± I blurted out, my words tumbling out of my mouth before I could stop them. The look on Doctor Brynn¡¯s face shifted from curiosity to something resembling mild difort.

    He lifted his hand up, as if to ward off any further information. ¡°I asked out of politeness, not because I wanted to hear about your¡­ nightly adventures.¡± With that, he briskly exited the room, leaving me alone with my tumultuous thoughts and the newfound reality of my unexpected pregnancy.

    As I left Doctor Brynn¡¯s office, the weight of the revtion still hung heavy in the air. The news that I was pregnant and that my ex-husband was the one with fertility issues gave me whirlwind of emotions. But amidst the chaos of my thoughts, another force began to emerge, like a tide slowly creeping in.

    Memories of the one-night stand started resurfacing in my mind. At first, they were faint shes, like distant thunder on the horizon. But with each step I took, each breath I drew, those memories grew stronger, more vivid, until they enveloped me like a tidal wave.

    I found myself reying that night in my mind, like a movie I couldn¡¯t stop watching. It had happened at one of my clients¡¯ weddings, a night when I had sought sce in the arms of none other than the brother of the groom, a night when I had thrown caution to the wind and allowed myself to drown in the heat of the moment.

    Sebastian Thornton. The Billionaire. The eligible bachelor in the whole of America. My client¡¯s brother inw. My baby daddy.

 2

    New York, Mia

    Five weeks earlier

    As I stood in front of the mirror, carefully applying my makeup, I couldn¡¯t help but feel a mix of emotions. I had been invited to the wedding of my most loyal client, Sophia Coleman, Thornton in just a few hours. She was about to marry Patrick, one of the biggest software engineers and businessmen in the whole of America. It was a grand event that had garnered attention from the elite circles of society, and it was taking ce in Tribeca rooftop, a picturesque room that added to the fairytale ambiance.

    Sophia had been a faithful patron of my services for years, and our professional rtionship had developed into a genuine friendship. She had stood by me through thick and thin, and when she had sent me an invitation to her wedding, I couldn¡¯t refuse. Even though I had recently gone through a painful divorce and the idea of attending a wedding felt like salt in the wound, I didn¡¯t want to disappoint Sophia on the happiest day of her life.

    As I put on my jewelry, I couldn¡¯t help but think about my own failed marriage. It had been a difficult period in my life, and I was still trying to heal the wounds that it had left behind. But today was about Sophia and Patrick, and I wanted to put my own troubles aside to celebrate their love.

    I carefully selected a stunning dress that I had been saving for a special asion and slipped into my elegant shoes. With one final look in the mirror, I nodded in approval. I might have been dealing with a storm inside, but on the outside, I was ready to be the supportive friend that Sophia needed on her big day.

    Stepping out of my apartment, I headed to where my car was waiting. The drive to the location was a mix of anticipation and trepidation. I knew that the wedding would be a grand affair, fitting for a couple of Sophia and Patrick¡¯s stature, and I couldn¡¯t help but wonder if it would only serve as a painful reminder of my own failed marriage.

    As I arrived at the Tribeca Rooftop, the venue for the wedding, any lingering doubts were pushed aside by awe. The decoration was nothing short of breathtaking. The rooftop offered panoramic views of the city, with the skyline serving as a dramatic backdrop to the ceremony.

    As I made my way inside, I was greeted by the gentle melodies of live music. Guests were mingling, dressed in their finest attire, and I recognized many faces from Sophia¡¯s social circle.

    Sophia herself looked radiant, her eyes shining with happiness as she glided through the crowd in her stunning wedding gown. Patrick, her husband, was beaming with pride and love as he greeted guests and friends. Their love was palpable, and it warmed my heart to see how genuinely happy they were together.

    Sophia spotted me and her face lit up with joy. She rushed over, her excitement evident as she hugged me tightly. ¡°I¡¯m so d you could make it!¡± she eximed, her voice filled with genuine appreciation.

    Tears welled up in my eyes as I hugged her back. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t have missed it for the world,¡± I replied.

    As I navigated through the bustling crowd, heading towards the bar, I couldn¡¯t help but notice a familiar face sitting there. Sebastian Thornton, Patrick¡¯s brother, was unmistakable. He was a billionaire who owned the prestigious Thorntonpany in Los Angeles, and his presence at the wedding didn¡¯t surprise me. What did surprise me was the intensity with which he was watching me.

    I approached the bar, keeping myposure as I felt his gaze on me. Sebastian¡¯s sharp eyes followed my every move, and I couldn¡¯t deny the sense of tension in the air. It was clear that he had something on his mind.

    I ordered a drink, trying to focus on the bartender¡¯s actions rather than the scrutiny of the billionaire sitting nearby. But before I could take a sip, Sebastian spoke, his voice low and dripping with sarcasm. ¡°Sebastian,¡± he said, as if reminding me of his name.

    I turned to face him, my own voiceced with a touch of sarcasm. ¡°I can see that,¡± I replied, raising an eyebrow in amusement. There was no mistaking the simmering tension between us, and I had a feeling that this conversation was about to take an interesting turn.Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.

    Sebastian leaned back in his barstool, a sardonic smile ying on his lips. ¡°I must say, you have a knack for stating the obvious,¡± he remarked, his tone dripping with dry humor. It was clear that he enjoyed ying with words, and I was more than willing to engage in this verbal exchange.

    I couldn¡¯t resist a yful retort. ¡°Well, Sebastian, I do try my best to keep things simple,¡± I quipped, matching his tone.

    Sebastian¡¯s gaze remained fixed on me, his eyes dark and mysterious. ¡°Simplicity can be quite refreshing in a world asplicated as this one,¡± he mused, his words carrying a hint of something deeper beneath the surface.

    I chuckled softly, taking a sip of my drink as I leaned against the bar. ¡°True,¡± I conceded, ¡°but I have a feeling that simplicity is a luxury neither of us can afford.¡±

    Sebastian¡¯s smile widened, and he raised his ss in a mock toast. ¡°Ah, you¡¯re quick. I like that,¡± he admitted, his eyes never leaving mine. There was a maic pull between us, a sense of curiosity that neither of us could resist.

    I couldn¡¯t help but push the banter further. ¡°Likewise, Sebastian. I¡¯ve heard you¡¯re quite the formidable opponent in business,¡± I teased, alluding to his status as a billionaire mogul.

    He arched an eyebrow, his interest piqued. ¡°Is that so?¡± he inquired, his toneced with amusement. ¡°And what else have you heard about me?¡±

    I leaned in closer, a mischievous glint in my eye. ¡°Well, I¡¯ve heard you¡¯re a man of many talents, Mr. Thornton,¡± I replied, my words carrying a suggestive undertone.

    Sebastian¡¯s lips curved into a knowing smile, and he leaned in as well, closing the distance between us. ¡°And what talents, pray tell, have you heard about?¡± he whispered, his voice low and husky.

    I looked at him seductively. ¡°Do you want me to say it or do you want me to show it?¡±

    Sebastian¡¯s eyes darkened. ¡°I¡¯m a visual learner.¡±

    A sly smile made its way onto my face. I wasn¡¯t a saint, and after the painful divorce I had recently endured, I was far from being a picture of happiness. In that moment, I found myself craving some excitement, something that would help me forget the unsettling feeling that had taken root in my heart.

    Sebastian¡¯s charm and the undeniable chemistry between us had ignited a spark of desire. It was a dangerous temptation, but I couldn¡¯t deny the allure of the moment. I needed a distraction, even if it was only temporary.

    Whispering in Sebastian¡¯s ear, I allowed my voice to take on a sultry tone. ¡°Follow me to the restroom,¡± I urged, my wordsced with an invitation that was impossible to resist. Without waiting for a response, I made my way out of the crowded room, heading towards the hallway where the bathrooms were located.

    As I stood in front of the restroom mirror, I couldn¡¯t help but wonder if I was making a reckless decision. The allure of something forbidden had taken hold of me, and I knew that stepping into this territory with Sebastian Thornton was a dangerous game.

    Not even ten secondster, I felt a hand creep around my back, a tantalizing touch that sent shivers down my spine. It was the all-too-familiar voice, filled with a maic allure that made my heart race. ¡°Pretty girl,¡± he whispered, his words carrying a promise of intrigue and excitement.

    I turned to face him, my eyes locking onto his with an intensity that matched the sizzling chemistry between us. Sebastian was a master of seduction, and in that moment, I couldn¡¯t resist his pull any longer.

    My hand reached up to brush a stray strand of hair away from my face, my fingers lightly grazing my neck as I looked up at him. ¡°Sebastian,¡± I replied in a low, sultry voice, ¡°I think it¡¯s time we explore that secret talent you mentioned earlier.¡±

    His lips curled into a knowing smile, and he leaned in closer, his breath warm against my ear. ¡°I was hoping you¡¯d say that,¡± he murmured, his voiceced with desire.

    In that dimly lit hallway, far from the prying eyes of the wedding guests, we allowed ourselves to sumb to the intoxicating allure of the moment. Our lips met in a searing kiss, a passionate exchange that sent shockwaves of desire coursing through me.

    Sebastian¡¯s hands roamed my body with a familiarity that left me breathless. It was as if our connection had been forged long before this night, a connection that defied reason and logic.

    As our kiss deepened, the world outside faded away, and all that remained was the electric chemistry between us. In that stolen moment, I was able to forget about the pain of my recent divorce, the heartache that had weighed me down for far too long.

    With a sense of urgency, we pulled away, our heavy breaths mingling in the air. Sebastian¡¯s eyes locked onto mine, a hunger burning in their depths. ¡°I¡¯ve been craving this,¡± he admitted, his voice husky with desire.

    I nodded in agreement, unable to deny the truth of his words. ¡°Me too,¡± I confessed, my voice filled with longing.

    There, we gave in to our desires without reservation, our bodies moving in a passionate dance that left us both craving more.

    ¡°Shit!¡± Sebastian muttered, ¡°the condom broke.¡±

    Still recovering from the mind shattering orgasm I grabbed his face and kissed him. ¡°Don¡¯t stop. I can¡¯t have kids anyway.¡±

    That was all Sebastian needed to hear before he mmed his cock in me, leaving me panting and begging for more.

 3

    New York, Sebastian

    I sat alone at the bar, nursing a ss of whiskey as I surveyed the wedding reception before me. The festivities were in full swing, and the room buzzed withughter and joy. My brother¡¯s wedding was a grand affair, a celebration of love andmitment, and I was supposed to be reveling in the moment. But truth be told, I didn¡¯t want to be here.

    My only sibling, my brother, had always looked out for me. He had been the protective older sibling, the one who stood up for me when I needed it most. It was only natural that I should be here to support him on his big day, to witness the union of two souls who had found love in each other¡¯s arms.

    But as I watched the happy couple, my heart felt heavy with a sense of obligation. Attending this wedding was not something I truly desired, not because I wasn¡¯t happy for my brother, but because it felt like an intrusion into my meticulously constructed world of work and money.

    The invitation had specified that I could bring a plus one, a thoughtful gesture that most guests had embraced. Yet, I had arrived alone. There simply hadn¡¯t been time in my busy schedule to seek out a suitablepanion. My life revolved around work and money, and I had convinced myself that those were the only constants I needed. They were reliable, steadfast, and would never stand up and leave me one day.

    My career had demanded my utmost dedication, and I had willingly given it. I had scaled the corporatedder with ruthless determination, umting wealth and sess along the way. But now, as I sat in this room filled with love and happiness, I couldn¡¯t help but feel like an outsider.

    The guests around me were a sea of unfamiliar faces, friends and family members of the bride and groom whom I had only met in passing. They chatted animatedly, sharing stories andughter, while I remained detached, an observer in a world that felt foreign.

    As the evening wore on, I couldn¡¯t help but reflect on my own life choices. I had prioritized work and money above all else, believing that they were the keys to happiness and fulfillment. I had sacrificed rtionships, personal connections, and even my own happiness on the altar of ambition.

    My thoughts drifted to the string of failed rtionships I had left in my wake. I had never been able to fullymit to any of them, always choosing work over love. My girlfriends hade and gone, each one worse than the other, as I struggled to find someone who could fit into my rigidly structured life.

    Until she came into my line of sight.

    She sat there, bathed in the soft glow of candlelight, and for a moment, I forgot how to breathe. It was as though time had stopped, and in that suspended moment.N?velDrama.Org exclusive content.

    ¡°Sebastian.¡± I said. Loud enough for her to hear.

    Her answer was feisty.

    In her eyes I could see a fire. Behind her words, I could hear the hidden meanings. The burning questions.

    For this beautiful woman I would do anything. And if that was fucking her in a bathroom stall at my brother¡¯s wedding then so be it.

    Her body fitted perfectly in my big hands. She was like a puzzle that had finally found its missing piece. Her eyes sparkled with a mixture of mystery and vulnerability, and her smile held the promise of countless untold stories. Her presence alone was intoxicating, drawing me in like a moth to a me.

    I realized that seeing her beg was the hottest sight a man could ever witness.

    I could sense from her bodynguage that she was longing for something, something that eluded her grasp. She wanted to forget something. And in this moment the only thing I wanted her to forget is her name.

    And then, just like that. The condom snapped. ¡°Son of bitch.¡± I groaned as I was trying to pull away. Mia, however, pulled me closer. ¡°I can¡¯t have kids.¡±

    Her voice barely above a whisper. In any other situation I would¡¯ve apologized andforted her. But now I was only driven by lust. So I mmed my lips on her and continued.

    I will ask her when we¡¯re both not fucking each other¡¯s brains out.

    The morning sun streamed through the curtains, casting a warm and inviting glow into the room. As I slowly stirred awake, my hand reached out instinctively to the empty space beside me. It was then that I realized Mia was gone, leaving nothing behind but the echo of our passionate night.

    For a moment, confusion washed over me. Had she stepped out briefly? Perhaps to grab breakfast or coffee? But as the seconds ticked by, it became evident that Mia had not just stepped out temporarily-she had disappeared without a trace, leaving no note or message behind.

    A sense of disorientation washed over me. The memories of the night before flooded back into my consciousness, fragmented and hazy. After our passionate encounter in the restroom, we had somehow ended up here, but the details were a blur. I couldn¡¯t recall whether I had driven us to the hotel or if we had taken a cab. It was as if the night had cast a spell over my memory.

    Half of the enthusiasm and warmth from the previous night seemed to extinguish within me. It was as if a me that had briefly flickered to life had been snuffed out, leaving behind a sense of emptiness.

    I couldn¡¯t help but feel a pang of disappointment. Mia had been beautiful-drop-dead gorgeous, in fact. Her presence had ignited something within me, something that I hadn¡¯t felt in a long time. It was as if her beauty had thawed the icy barrier around my cold heart, if only for a fleeting moment.

    But now, as Iy in the quiet solitude of the hotel room, that heart felt colder than ever. The warmth and connection we had shared had vanished along with her, leaving me with an ache of longing and an unsettling feeling of emptiness.

    It became clear to me that Mia had no intentions beyond our one-night stand. She had been an enigmatic and alluring presence in my life, a passinget that had briefly illuminated the night sky before disappearing into the darkness.

    As I slowly got out of bed and began to gather my belongings, I couldn¡¯t help but wonder about Mia¡¯s motivations. Had she been seeking an escape from her own reality, just as I had? Or had our encounter meant nothing more to her than a momentary distraction from theplexities of life?

    Although somewhat disappointed, I convinced myself to treat the encounter as a fleeting romance, a brief and passionate interlude that had nosting consequences.

 4

    New York, MiaN?velDrama.Org exclusive content.

    Present

    When I arrived home, Be was sitting in the living room watching tv.

    ¡°I need to tell

    Be had been my confidante since we were babies. We grew up together, sharing secrets, dreams, andughter. We even attended the same university andter decided to share a spacious apartment in the heart of New York City. She had been my rock through thick and thin, and it was to her that I turned when I faced the tumultuous storm of my divorce from Gavin, my ex-husband.

    As we sat in our cozy living room, sipping on cups of steaming tea, I knew it was time to share my most closely guarded secret with Be. The weight of it had been pressing on me for hours, and I needed her unwavering support more than ever.

    ¡°Be,¡± I began hesitantly, my voice quivering slightly, ¡°there¡¯s something I need to tell you.¡± I looked into her familiar, caring eyes, eyes that had seen me through every high and low of my life.

    Be set her cup of tea aside and turned her full attention to me. ¡°You can tell me anything, you know that,¡± she said, her voice filled with genuine concern.

    I took a deep breath, trying to steady my nerves. ¡°I¡¯m pregnant,¡± I finally blurted out, the words hanging heavy in the air.

    Be¡¯s eyes widened in surprise, and then a radiant smile crossed her face. ¡°Oh my goodness, that¡¯s incredible news!¡± she eximed, rushing over to embrace me. Her genuine happiness was infectious, and for a moment, I allowed myself to share in her joy.

    But as the initial excitement subsided, I couldn¡¯t help but dwell on the past. The memories of my divorce from Gavin flooded back into my mind, like a painful undercurrent beneath the surface.

    The memories of my painful divorce with Gavin flooded my mind. The wounds from that period in my life were still fresh, even though time had passed. Gavin and I had been deeply in love for years, and our marriage had been the culmination of that love. It had been a bond I had cherished and believed wouldst a lifetime.

    On a stormy Monday morning I received a pregnancy report in the mail from an anonymous woman who imed she was carrying Gavin¡¯s child. The letter urged me to end our marriage, casting a shadow of doubt and betrayal over everything we had shared.

    My hands trembled as I read the words in the letter. How could this be true? Gavin and I had been through so much together, and the idea that he could betray our love in such a way was almost inconceivable.

    I couldn¡¯t bear the weight of this secret alone. I needed answers, and I needed them from Gavin. With a sense of determination, I picked up my phone and dialed his number.

    When he answered, his voice was tense, as if he knew that this call was inevitable. ¡°Gavin, we need to talk,¡± I said, my voice steady but filled with an urgency that couldn¡¯t be ignored.

    There was a long pause on the other end of the line before Gavin finally spoke, his voice strained. ¡°I know,¡± he replied, his words heavy with guilt.

    I couldn¡¯t hold back the tears that welled up in my eyes. ¡°Gavin, please, just tell me the truth. Is it real? Is there another woman carrying your child?¡± I asked, my voice quivering with a mixture of fear and desperation.

    Gavin stammered, struggling to find the words. ¡°Yes,¡± he confessed, his voice barely a whisper. ¡°It¡¯s true.¡±

    The revtion hit me like a tidal wave, and I sank onto the nearest chair, my heart aching with pain. Gavin had been the love of my life, the person I had trusted above all else. The depth of his betrayal was beyondprehension.

    ¡°Why, Gavin?¡± I whispered, tears streaming down my cheeks. ¡°Why would you do this to us? To me?¡±

    Gavin¡¯s voice cracked as he tried to exin. ¡°I¡­ I needed an heir to inherit my father¡¯s wealth. It¡¯s¡­ it¡¯splicated. And I knew about your potential infertility. I had a moment of weakness, and I made a terrible mistake.¡±

    The pieces of the puzzle fell into ce, and suddenly, I understood the reason behind Gavin¡¯s recent coldness and distance. He had been driven by his family¡¯s legacy, willing to sacrifice our love and trust for the sake of inheritance.

    But in that moment, I couldn¡¯t stomach the depth of his betrayal. Our love, which had once been the cornerstone of our lives, nowy in ruins, shattered by deceit and betrayal.

    With a heavy heart, I made a decision. ¡°I can¡¯t do this, Gavin,¡± I said, my voice filled with determination. ¡°I can¡¯t be with someone who chose betrayal over our love, no matter the reasons. We¡¯re done.¡±

    Gavin¡¯s voice trembled as he tried to speak, but I couldn¡¯t bear to hear his excuses or pleas for forgiveness any longer. I hung up the phone, tears streaming down my face.

    In the days that followed, I took the necessary steps to end our marriage and all ties with Gavin. It was a painful and heart-wrenching process, but I knew it was the only way to move on.

    As I walked away from our shared life, I couldn¡¯t help but mourn the love we had once shared. It had been a love that I had believed would stand the test of time, a love that had brought me joy and happiness beyond measure.

    The pain of Gavin¡¯s betrayal would always be a part of my past, a reminder of the fragility of trust and the consequences of choosing deceit over love. But I was determined not to let it define my future.

    ¡°Hey, hey,¡± Be said, snapping her fingers in front of my face. ¡°Don¡¯t think about that man whore. Let¡¯s talk about the baby daddy. Who is it?¡±

    I took a deep breath, focusing on the present moment rather than dwelling on the past. ¡°Sebastian,¡± I whispered, my voice barely audible.

    Be¡¯s eyes widened in surprise and excitement. ¡°Sebastian Thornton!¡± She squealed, unable to contain her enthusiasm. ¡°Holy shit, you really got good taste in men!¡±

    I chuckled, acknowledging the truth in her words. Sebastian was undeniably attractive and charismatic, a man who had captivated my heart, if only for a brief moment. But despite the magic of that night, I couldn¡¯t envision a future with him.

    ¡°He¡¯s charming, Be, there¡¯s no doubt about that,¡± I admitted, ¡°but there¡¯s something about him. He seems too stern and short-tempered, and our lives are inpletely different cities.¡±

    Be nodded, her expression thoughtful. ¡°I get what you mean. Long-distance rtionships are tough, and it sounds like you both have very different lifestyles.¡±

    I sighed, grateful for Be¡¯s understanding. ¡°Exactly. My life is here in New York, with my family and friends. I can¡¯t imagine uprooting everything to be with him in Los Angeles.¡±

    Be smiled, a reassuring and supportive presence. ¡°Well, at least you had a memorable night with him,¡± she said, trying to lighten the mood. ¡°And you¡¯ve got an amazing friend like me to help you navigate this new chapter.¡±

    I couldn¡¯t help but smile back at Be. Her unwavering support and friendship meant the world to me. ¡°You¡¯re right,¡± I agreed, feeling a sense offort in her presence. ¡°I have you, and I have this little one on the way.¡±

 5

    Los Angeles, Sebastian

    I sat in the conference room, surrounded by stakeholders, as they discussed important matters rted to ourpany. The meeting was crucial, filled with discussions about the future of our business. However, my mind asionally wandered, betraying my inability to focus on the topic at hand. Instead, it drifted somewhere else-or rather, to someone else.

    Mia had been a fleeting but unforgettable presence in my life. The memories of our passionate night together still lingered in my mind, a tantalizing reminder of a desire that had ignited like a wildfire. Even now, in the midst of this meeting, I couldn¡¯t help but think of her.

    I nced across the room, and there, sitting at her desk just outside the conference room, was my secretary. She wore an outfit that was eerily simr to the one Mia had worn that unforgettable night. The resemnce was uncanny, and it triggered a rush of memories that threatened to overwhelm me.

    I couldn¡¯t understand how my secretary had chosen to wear such an outfit to the office. It was inappropriate and unprofessional, given our workce standards. But in my distracted state, I found it difficult to focus on anything else, especially not the meeting.

    As I continued to lose myself in my thoughts, I missed out on the details of the discussions taking ce in the room. My mind was preupied with the memories of that night with Mia, the way our bodies hade together in a feverish embrace, the passion that had consumed us both.

    Just when I thought the meeting couldn¡¯t get any more challenging to endure, someone entered the room, holding a confidential letter that required my immediate attention. The sudden interruption snapped me back to reality, and I blinked in confusion.

    The person handed me the envelope, their expression grave. ¡°Mr. Thornton, this just arrived, and it¡¯s marked as urgent. You need to see it right away,¡± they said, their voice low and urgent.

    Curiosity and a sense of unease washed over me as I epted the envelope. With trembling hands, I tore it open and began to read the contents. My heart pounded in my chest as I took in the words on the page.

    The letter demanded that I renounce any parental rights to Mia Anderson¡¯s unborn child.

    I couldn¡¯t believe what I was reading. The shock of the demand left me speechless, my mind racing to make sense of it all. Mia¡¯s name on the letter sent a jolt of recognition through me, and I couldn¡¯t help but recall our passionate encounter.

    As the implications of the letter sank in, I felt a rush of emotions. Confusion, anger, and a gnawing sense of guilt swirled within me. Why would Mia make such a request? And an unborn child? Was she pregnant with me? She said she was infertile!

    The stakeholders in the room watched me closely, waiting for a response. But I was at a loss for words, unable to process the sudden turn of events. The meeting had taken an unexpected and bewildering twist, and I needed time to understand the gravity of the situation.

    Finally, I managed to speak, my voiceced with uncertainty. ¡°I need to cut this meeting short,¡± I said, looking up at the concerned faces around me. ¡°I have important business to attend.¡± And with that I excused myself out of the conference room.

    I called my driver and quickly instructed my personal assistant to handle everything back at the office. ¡°Make sure everything is under control,¡± I emphasized, watching her scribble down notes diligently. ¡°Don¡¯t let my father know that I am not in the state. Hell, don¡¯t let anyone know.¡±

    She nodded in understanding. ¡°Yes, sir.¡±

    Leaving my assistant to manage the situation, I swiftly exited the building and stepped into the waiting car. The urgency of the situation weighed on my mind, and I needed to address it promptly before any furtherplications arose.

    As my driver navigated through the city¡¯s streets, I delved into the files once again, trying toe to terms with the unexpected turn my life had taken. The prospect of impending fatherhood wasn¡¯t something I had ever nned for, and the shock was still reverberating through my thoughts.

    Upon arriving at my private airport, I wasted no time. I stepped out of the car and walked briskly toward my awaiting private jet. The sooner I could address this matter in New York, the better. I had no intention of allowing this situation to spiral out of control or be public knowledge.

    I climbed aboard the jet and, with a firm tone, informed the pilot of my destination. ¡°New York,¡± I said decisively, and he acknowledged my instructions before heading to the cockpit. The ne¡¯s engines roared to life, and I settled into a seat, preparing myself mentally for the journey ahead.Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.

    As the private jet soared through the skies, I gazed out of the window at the breathtakingndscapes passing below. The serene beauty of nature was a stark contrast to the tumultuous thoughts swirling in my mind. This unexpected turn of events had left me in a state of disarray, and I was determined to confront the situation head-on.

    When we finally touched down in New York, my driver was already waiting for me. I swiftly made my way to the car, giving clear instructions to drive to Mia¡¯s apartment. Earlier that morning, I had instructed my trusted detective to uncover Mia¡¯s address. And my detective was none other than Sophia, my sister-inw, and Mia¡¯s client, who had taken on the task.

    As we approached Mia¡¯s apartment building, my nerves began to flutter, but I concealed my anxiety behind aposed facade. Stepping out of the car, I took a deep breath to steady myself before approaching her door. I couldn¡¯t afford to let my emotions get the best of me; this was a crucial moment, and I needed to handle it with the utmost care.

    I knocked on the door

 6

    New York, Mia

    My breath got stuck in my throat when I saw Sebastian in front of me, dressed in his impable business attire. There was no doubt in my mind that he was probably one of the most good-looking men I knew. His sharp features, chiseled jawline, and piercing blue eyes had always left me feeling somewhat breathless, and today was no exception.

    ¡°Can I help you with something?¡± I managed to stammer out, though I didn¡¯t even need to ask because I knew exactly what he was here for. My eyes involuntarily drifted down to the envelope in his hand, and anxiety twisted my stomach into knots.

    Sebastian cocked his eyebrow at me, a trademark expression of his, and then looked past me into the living room where Kieran and Be were sheepishly looking at him. Their guilt was practically written all over their faces. ¡°I got interrupted in a meeting,¡± Sebastian began, his tone carrying a mix of annoyance and frustration as he pushed me aside and walked into the room. Rude, I thought, but said nothing.

    ¡°To learn that I will be a father,¡± he continued, his voice dripping with sarcasm. I turned around to look at him, my heart pounding in my chest. This wasn¡¯t how I had imagined breaking the news to him, but it seemed fate had other ns.

    Sebastian put his hand on his hips, his gaze locked onto me, and he continued, ¡°Are you trying to baby trap me?¡± The usation hung heavily in the air, and I felt my face flush with a mix of embarrassment and anger.

    ¡°Sebastian, it¡¯s not what you think,¡± I tried to exin, my voice quivering. ¡°I didn¡¯t n for this to happen. It¡¯s just that¡­¡± I trailed off, not knowing how to put into words theplicated situation that had led us to this point.

    ¡°It¡¯s just that what?¡± Sebastian asked, his frustration palpable as he ced the envelope on the coffee table. ¡°Do you want money? Is that what ites down to?¡±

    My anger red up, and it felt like imaginary steam wasing from my ears. ¡°Listen here, you jerk,¡± I said, my voice sharp, but I got interrupted by Sebastian once again.

    ¡°This jerk will be the father of your child,¡± he seethed, his words dripping with irritation.

    ¡°Don¡¯t get so full of yourself,¡± I replied, equally annoyed. ¡°I thought I was infertile. It was written in my doctor¡¯s file that I was infertile, but apparently, I wasn¡¯t the problem. My ex was. So I¡¯m sorry that it led to this situation, and I don¡¯t expect you to be part of it.¡±

    Sebastian let out a bitterugh, not theforting type ofugh but a rather unsettling one. ¡°What do you see me as? A deadbeat father?!¡± he eximed, his voice filled with a mix of anger and hurt. He then turned his gaze towards Kieran. ¡°Is that what you see me as?¡±

    Kieran met Sebastian¡¯s stare with a stern expression. ¡°I just want what¡¯s best for my sister and her baby,¡± he said firmly, making it clear that his concern was genuine.

    Sebastian clenched his teeth, his frustration apparent. ¡°Our baby,¡± he corrected, his tone softer but stillced with tension. It was clear that he was grappling with a whirlwind of emotions, and I couldn¡¯t me him entirely. This situation had blindsided all of us.

    Sebastian picked up the envelope from the table, his expression unreadable as he examined it for a moment. His eyes then shifted to all of us in the room, his gaze unwavering. ¡°Make this clear in your mind,¡± he said, his voice firm. ¡°I¡¯ll be part of this baby¡¯s life whether you all like it or not.¡±

    With a swift motion, he tore the envelope into four pieces, the paper fragments scattering across the living room. It was a symbolic gesture, one that left us all momentarily stunned. I watched as he turned his attention to me, his gaze piercing. ¡°How many weeks are you?¡± he asked, his tone surprisingly gentle.

    ¡°Almost six,¡± I replied, my voice barely above a whisper. The torn pieces of paper fluttered around us, a stark reminder of the unexpected turn our lives had taken.

    Sebastian nodded, his features softening as he seemed to absorb the reality of the situation. ¡°When is your next doctor¡¯s appointment?¡± he inquired, his interest in the details of my pregnancy surprising me.

    ¡°In three weeks,¡± I replied, still trying to process his sudden involvement.

    ¡°Give me your phone,¡± he said, extending his hand. I looked at him, confused by his request. ¡°What?¡± I asked, needing rification.

    ¡°Give me your phone,¡± he repeated, his patience wearing thin. Uncertain but willing toply, I handed him my phone, watching as he swiftly typed something. He handed it back to me, and I saw that he had saved his number in my contacts. ¡°When the appointment is due, give me a heads-up,¡± he instructed, his voice carrying a hint of concern that caught me off guard.

    I nodded, my heart still racing from the whirlwind of emotions and actions that had transpired in such a short time. I couldn¡¯t believe that he was here, that he was interested in being a part of this journey. It was a lot to take in, and my mind was racing with a million questions.

    Kieran stepped forward, his protective instincts in full force. ¡°Don¡¯t even think of hurting my sister,¡± he warned, his gaze locked onto Sebastian. ¡°She¡¯s been through a lot.¡±

    Sebastian studied Kieran for a moment, his expression serious. ¡°Don¡¯t worry about that,¡± he replied, his words carrying a weight of sincerity that reassured me.

    And with that, Sebastian walked out of the room just as swiftly as he had entered, leaving us all in a state of shock and uncertainty.

    After Sebastian¡¯s abrupt exit, there was a moment of stunned silence in the living room. The torn envelopey scattered on the floor as a reminder of the unexpected turn of events that had just unfolded before us. It was Be who first broke the silence with her enthusiastic outburst.

    ¡°That was so hot!¡± she squealed, her eyes sparkling with excitement. ¡°Ahh, I¡¯m going to be the best aunt for your little baby!¡±

    Kieran couldn¡¯t help but react to her exuberance with a yful p on the back of her head. ¡°We¡¯re all in distress, and you¡¯re acting all giddy,¡± he chided her.

    Be rubbed the back of her head, pretending to pout for a moment before breaking into a wide grin. ¡°What is there not to like?¡± she eximed, her enthusiasm undiminished. ¡°A baby is a blessing. And the fact that the baby is going to be a Thornton. Holy shit, the baby is already winning in life!¡±

    Her words, while lighthearted, carried a hint of truth. It was hard not to feel a glimmer of hope and excitement amidst the chaos of the situation. The idea of bringing a child into the world was a profound one, and the fact that it would bear the Thornton name added an extrayer of significance to the moment.

    A faint smile appeared on my face as I listened to Be¡¯s infectious enthusiasm. She had a point; this child, regardless of the circumstances, was indeed a blessing. However, deep down, I couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that this journey would be far from easy. There would be challenges, obstacles, and uncertainties that we couldn¡¯t predict.Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.

    Kieran, ever the pragmatic one, took a deep breath and looked at me with concern in his eyes. ¡°Are you okay?¡± he asked, his voice gentle. ¡°This is a lot to take in, and I want to make sure you¡¯re alright.¡±

    I appreciated his concern and nodded, though my emotions were still a whirlwind. ¡°I¡¯m okay, Kieran,¡± I replied softly. ¡°It¡¯s just¡­ everything happened so quickly. I never expected Sebastian to react this way.¡±

    Kieran sighed and wrapped an arm around my shoulders, offering a reassuring embrace. ¡°None of us did,¡± he said. ¡°But we¡¯re in this together, and we¡¯ll figure it out as we go along. You don¡¯t have to do this alone.¡±

 7

    New York, Sebastian

    When I saw Mia, something in me melted. It was a sensation I had never experienced before, a warmth that permeated through my usual cold and grumpy demeanor. Normally, I was disinterested in people, especially women, but Mia was different. Mia gave me a giddy feeling that I couldn¡¯t quite exin.

    I had met Mia under unusual circumstances, a chance encounter that had thrown both of our lives into a whirlwind of confusion and uncertainty. But there was something about her that drew me in, something that made me want to be a part of her life, even though I had never envisioned bing a father at this age.

    As I sighed and entered my apartment in the heart of New York City, I couldn¡¯t shake the thought of Mia from my mind. The stress in her eyes had been evident when we had met, and I knew there was more to her than what met the eye. She was a mystery, a puzzle I wanted to unravel.

    I made myself a vodka tonic and sat at the bar, my head resting in my hand as I contemted the situation. Bing a father was not something I had ever nned for, and it was certainly not something I had anticipated at this stage in my life. But I couldn¡¯t bear the thought of Mia going through it alone. I didn¡¯t want to be like my own father, absent and indifferent.

    I took a sip of the drink, the cool liquid doing little to calm my racing thoughts. I needed to see Mia again, to get to know her better, to understand the woman who would be the mother of my unborn child. It was a responsibility I couldn¡¯t ignore, a connection that had been forged, whether I liked it or not.

    I sighed, my thoughts drifting to Mia once again. I couldn¡¯t help but wonder if she had already told Sophia about the impending arrival of our child. It seemed unlikely because if she had, Sophia would have undoubtedly shared the news with my brother, and he would have informed me immediately.

    The uncertainty of the situation weighed on me as I finished my drink and nced at my phone. Without hesitation, I dialed the number of my trusted personal assistant, udio. He picked up after the first ring, his voice crisp and efficient.

    ¡°Hi udio,¡± I greeted him. ¡°I need you to find a nice house with a beautiful garden and enough living room space in both New York and Los Angeles.¡±

    udio, ustomed to handling my requests without question, responded promptly. ¡°Of course, Mr. Thornton. Are there any specific criteria or preferences you have in mind for these properties?¡±

    I leaned back in my chair, contemting Mia¡¯s situation. ¡°Well, in New York, it should be within a reasonablemute to Mia¡¯s workce,¡± I exined. ¡°And in Los Angeles, it should offer a serene environment suitable for raising a family.¡±N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner.

    I could almost hear udio typing away on the other end of the line as he took note of my instructions. ¡°Understood, Mr. Thornton. I¡¯ll begin the search right away and provide you with a list of options to review.¡±

    ¡°Thank you, udio,¡± I replied, my tone grateful. ¡°I appreciate your prompt assistance.¡±

    With that, I hung up and set my phone aside, gazing out of the window at the cityscape beyond. The house I currently owned in Los Angeles was undeniably elegant, but itcked the practicality and warmth needed to raise a family. Given Mia¡¯s job in New York, it made sense to have a residence there as well.

    I knew that Mia had a strong attachment to New York, and the idea of moving might not sit well with her. This was her state, her workce, and I understood the significance it held in her life. However, I was willing to do whatever it took to ensure the mother of my child was happy andfortable.

    I was about to head out to get some food when my phone started ringing incessantly. Confused, I rushed to grab it from the countertop and swiped up to see what all the fuss was about. My heart pounded in my chest as I stared at the notifications and messages flooding my screen.

    My eyes widened, and I let out a string of curse words under my breath. The situation had just taken a turn for the worse. I never expected things to escte to this level. With trembling fingers, I tapped on one of the messages that contained a link. It led me to a headline that sent shockwaves through my entire being.

    In big, bold letters, the headline of Billionaire¡¯s Gossip Magazine screamed at me: ¡°ONE NIGHT STAND GONE WRONG: MIA ANDERSON CARRIES THE NEXT HEIR OF THE THORNTON FAMILY?¡±

 8

    New York, Mia

    My eyes widened, and my heart seemed to stop beating as I stared at the shocking headline on the screen. How in the world had the media caught wind of my pregnancy? Panic surged through me as I tried to process the implications of this unexpected revtion.

    It was Be who burst into the kitchen, her face flushed with rm, holding her phone up to show me the gossip that was spreading like wildfire across the inte. ¡°Look at this, Mia!¡± she eximed, her voice trembling with disbelief.

    I grabbed Be¡¯s phone, my hands shaking uncontrobly as I read the scious headlines and articles that were being shared across various news outlets and social media tforms. This was a nightmare unfolding before my eyes, and I had no idea how to stop it.

    ¡°What the hell, Be!¡± I managed to stammer, my voice quivering with anxiety. This was far from good news, and I feared the consequences that would follow.

    I knew it wouldn¡¯t be long before my phone started ringing incessantly, and I braced myself for the inevitable confrontation with my father. Kieran had gone out to get us dinner, and I wished he were here to handle the call. I had never been my parents¡¯ favorite child, and their disappointment in my life choices had always loomed over me.

    They had disapproved of the major I had chosen in college, and in their eyes, I was a failure for not following the path of business administration and joining our family¡¯s business empire. That¡¯s why, after graduation, they had arranged my marriage to Gavin, who thankfully wasn¡¯t aplete stranger and whom I genuinely liked. It had been their way of molding me into the perfect daughter they had envisioned.N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner.

    With trembling fingers, I picked up the phone as it began to ring. ¡°Hello, father,¡± I answered, my voice tight with trepidation.

    ¡°What do I read on the inte!¡± he barked immediately, bypassing any pleasantries or inquiries about my well-being.

    ¡°Sebastian Thornton!¡± he screamed, his anger palpable through the phone. ¡°You¡¯re cheating on Gavin, you whore!¡±

    The tears welled up in my eyes, and my voice wavered as I tried to defend myself. ¡°I¡¯m not cheating on anyone,¡± I choked out, my heart heavy with the weight of my family¡¯s expectations and judgments.

    ¡°Then what am I reading?!¡± My father¡¯s voice exploded through the phone, causing me to flinch. ¡°Don¡¯t make mee over to p some sense into you!¡±

    I took a deep breath, bracing myself for the storm that was about to descend. ¡°I divorced Gavin two months ago,¡± I exined, my voice steady despite the turmoil within. ¡°He was cheating on me, Father. He has a baby on the way with another woman.¡±

    There was a short, tense silence on the other end of the line, and I could almost feel the tension radiating through the phone. Then, a loud crash followed by the sound of shattered ss pierced the air. It was the first time in years I had heard my father lose control like this.

    ¡°What the hell, Mia!¡± he roared, his voiceced with anger and disbelief. ¡°You divorced him?! And you didn¡¯t even bother to tell me? To tell your family?!¡±

    I closed my eyes, trying to find the right words to exin myself. ¡°People make mistakes, Mia,¡± he continued, his voice a tempest of emotions. ¡°Why would you divorce Gavin for a small mistake like that?¡±

    The words stung like a p in the face. Small mistake. My father called cheating a small mistake, as though it was something trivial. It was clear he didn¡¯t understand the depth of the betrayal I had endured.

    ¡°It¡¯s not a small mistake, Father,¡± I replied, my voice firm. ¡°I couldn¡¯t stay in a marriage built on lies and betrayal. I deserve better.¡±

    ¡°You think you know everything better!¡± My father¡¯s voice grew louder, frustration seeping through every word. ¡°And look at you now, knocked up! You¡¯re such an embarrassment for this family! You¡¯re dragging our family¡¯s name through the mud.¡±

    His usations came like a barrage of artillery, each word a painful reminder of the strained rtionship I had with my family. I had always felt like a disappointment, like I could never meet their expectations, and this situation only seemed to validate their disappointment in me.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± I offered, my voice trembling with a mixture of sorrow and frustration. ¡°I never meant for any of this to happen.¡±

    My father¡¯s anger continued to burn like a wildfire, consuming any semnce of reason or understanding. ¡°You will get rid of that thing,¡± he ordered, his tone cold and unforgiving. ¡°I will transfer money to you, and you will get rid of it.¡±

    My heart sank at his callous demand. He was referring to the life growing inside me as if it were a mere inconvenience, something to be disposed of. I couldn¡¯t believe what I was hearing, and the weight of his words threatened to crush me.

    ¡°I won¡¯t do that, Father,¡± I said, my voice resolute despite the tears that welled up in my eyes. ¡°I won¡¯t end this pregnancy.¡±

    The line fell into a chilling silence as my father¡¯s anger seemed to reach its peak. I knew that I was risking further estrangement from my family, but I couldn¡¯t let their judgment and expectations dictate my choices any longer. This was my life, and I had the right to make decisions that were in my best interest and the best interest of my child.

    The conversation with my father escted into a heated argument, with usations flying and my pleas for understanding falling on deaf ears.

    After what felt like an eternity, I finally managed to hang up the phone, my emotions in turmoil. The tears that had been brimming behind my eyes finally spilled over, and I slumped into a chair, overwhelmed by the storm of emotions that had been unleashed.

    Be rushed over and ced aforting hand on my shoulder. ¡°Mia, are you okay?¡± she asked, her concern evident in her eyes.

    I wiped away my tears and nodded, taking a shaky breath. ¡°I will be,¡± I replied, my voice steadier now. ¡°But this is going to be a long and difficult battle. I need to protect myself and our child from this media frenzy.¡±

 9

    New York, Sebastian

    My phone was blowing up with notifications and calls, each one a reminder of the whirlwind my life had be. It was my brother, Patrick, who was the first to call, his voice filled with a mixture of curiosity and amusement.

    ¡°What do I read on the inte, lil bro?¡± he asked, and in the background, I could hear Sophia giggling. ¡°I¡¯m so excited,¡± she chimed in, her enthusiasm unmistakable.

    I let out a sigh, realizing that there was no avoiding the truth any longer. ¡°Yes, it¡¯s true,¡± I confirmed, my emotions a tangled mess.

    Patrick¡¯s curiosity got the better of him, and he delved into the details. ¡°You really had a one-night stand with her?¡± he asked, his tone incredulous. ¡°Where and when?¡±Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.

    I couldn¡¯t help but roll my eyes at his relentless questioning. ¡°It happened at your wedding,¡± I admitted, deciding to be upfront about it.

    There was a short silence on the other end of the line, followed by a loud and emphatic ¡°Ew, what the fuck¡± from Sophia. I couldn¡¯t help but chuckle at her reaction, even in the midst of the chaos.

    Patrick¡¯s tone grew more serious as he asked the next inevitable question. ¡°What are you going to do now?¡±

    I sighed, the weight of the situation pressing down on me. ¡°Her brother wanted to revoke all my parental rights,¡± I exined, my voice filled with determination. ¡°Her family and friends want to raise the child alone, and even though she is very much capable of doing that, I won¡¯t allow it.¡±

    Patrick¡¯s support was unwavering as he replied, ¡°Yes, don¡¯t let them do that. You have a responsibility as a father.¡±

    His understanding and encouragement meant the world to me in that moment. I had been prepared for judgment and criticism, but Patrick¡¯s eptance was a breath of fresh air.

    As the conversation continued, Patrick brought up the inevitable topic of our parents. ¡°Have you called Mom and Dad already? You know what they are going to say.¡±

    I hesitated, torn between the desire to shield my parents from the truth and the need to be honest. My parents were deeply religious, and I knew they would have strong opinions on the situation.

    ¡°I¡¯m still young to do that,¡± I replied, avoiding the topic for the time being.

    Patrick chuckled, his tone lightening. ¡°I¡¯m not going to say much. Only congrattions.¡±

    I ended the call with Patrick who had been surprisingly understanding and supportive. But now, a more daunting conversation awaited as my father¡¯s name shed on my screen. I took a deep breath before picking up the phone.

    ¡°Hi, Dad,¡± I greeted him, my voice steady.

    ¡°My son, what am I hearing? You impregnated the daughter of the Anderson family?¡± My father was direct and unapologetic, wasting no time in addressing the situation.

    I let his words sink in before responding, choosing honesty over evasion. ¡°Yes, Dad,¡± I admitted, the weight of the truth heavy on my shoulders.

    ¡°Is what I read true? A one-night stand?!¡± My father¡¯s disappointment was palpable through the phone. ¡°I raised you better than that, Sebastian. Clean this mess up.¡±

    I swallowed hard, aware of the expectations and values my father held dear. ¡°My PR team is working on it,¡± I assured him.

    There was a brief pause before my father continued, his voice taking on a more serious tone. ¡°So she¡¯s pregnant. You already know what the next step is.¡±

    I knew all too well what he was implying, and it was the very reason I had been reluctant to involve my parents in this situation. ¡°Marriage,¡± my father dered firmly. ¡°Your mother is on the phone with the pastor right now. He can squeeze you in next Saturday.¡±

    My heart raced at the thought of such a rushed decision. ¡°I don¡¯t think marriage is a good idea, Dad,¡± I protested, my voice strained.

    ¡°Why not?¡± My father questioned, his tone unyielding. ¡°You need to get married. What will people say?!¡±

    My frustration and resistance bubbled to the surface. ¡°I don¡¯t care about what people will say,¡± I admitted, my voice tense with defiance.

    My father¡¯s response was immediate and unwavering. ¡°I don¡¯t want to hear anything about this, son. You are going to get married. The fact that it is all over the news is already sickening. Don¡¯t make it worse.¡±

    I pressed my fingers to my temples, trying to find a way to convey my reservations. ¡°I don¡¯t think marriage will solve all the issues going around right now,¡± I tried to exin, my words falling on deaf ears.

    My father ignored my protests andid out his n. ¡°I¡¯ll send your great grandma¡¯s ring to you with Clyde, the chauffeur. The next thing I want to see on the news is your proposal.¡±

    I let out a deep, frustrated sigh, feeling the weight of my father¡¯s expectations pressing down on me. ¡°I¡¯m too young to get married,¡± I protested, trying to make him understand the gravity of the situation.

    But my father¡¯s response was unwavering. ¡°Deal with the consequences like a man, Sebastian,¡± he retorted, leaving little room for negotiation.

    He then dropped another bombshell on me. ¡°And we also want to meet the girl. How about dinner in three weeks?¡± he suggested casually, as though arranging a family gathering.

    I didn¡¯t know what to say. Mia and I were barelymunicating, if at all. The idea of bringing her into my family¡¯s scrutiny at this point seemed like an impossible task. ¡°I¡¯m not sure if she¡¯s up for that,¡± I replied cautiously.

    My father¡¯s tone turned stern. ¡°What do you mean? Isn¡¯t she going to be your wife? The mother of your child?¡±

    I struggled to find the right words to exin theplicated situation. Mia had never been meant to be my wife or the mother of my child. Ours had been a one-time encounter, an unexpected twist of fate that had thrown our lives into disarray.

    ¡°It¡¯s a littleplicated,¡± I admitted to my father, choosing not to disclose the full extent of our arrangement.

    His response was far from sympathetic. ¡°I don¡¯t know what is and what isn¡¯t,¡± he huffed in frustration. ¡°The only thing I want to see next on these gossip channels is a mind-blowing proposal from you to her!¡±

    With those words, my father abruptly ended the call, leaving me with a sense of hopelessness and a slew of problems that seemed insurmountable. The pressure to conform to my family¡¯s expectations and the demands of the public eye weighed heavily on my shoulders, and I couldn¡¯t see an easy way out of the predicament I found myself in.

    As I stared at my phone, contemting the challenges thaty ahead, I couldn¡¯t help but feel a growing sense of unease. Mia and I had never signed up for any of this, and yet, our lives had be entangled in a web of expectations and obligations.

    ¡°Motherfucker!¡± I cursed as I threw the vase next to me on the wall.

 10

    New York, Mia

    With the relentless paparazzi swarming around us and the scandal spiraling out of control, it became clear that the only sensible thing to do was to call Sebastian. We needed to work together ande up with a n on how to handle this overwhelming situation.

    Kieran returned from his food run, visibly frustrated as he recounted the ordeal he had faced with the paparazzi. He had to call in extra security just to ensure our safety. ¡°It¡¯s brutal out there,¡± he reported, cing the Indian food he had brought on the table  Chicken Tikka Mas, naan, and samosas.

    Be had already started digging into the meal while I paced nervously in the living room. The weight of the media scrutiny and public judgment was suffocating, and I felt the need to reach out to Sebastian for guidance.

    ¡°I should call Sebastian,¡± I finally dered. ¡°Maybe he will know what to do.¡±

    Kieran nodded in agreement. ¡°Yeah, you should. He is the father after all.¡±

    I dialed Sebastian¡¯s number, and my heart raced as I waited for him to answer. After the first ring, he picked up, his voice calm andposed. ¡°Mia,¡± he greeted me.

    ¡°It¡¯s all over the news,¡± I said, my voice trembling. ¡°What should we do?¡±

    There was a brief pause before Sebastian responded, his tone reassuring. ¡°My PR team is working on it. But I suggest you stay inside for now.¡±

    I had no intention of venturing outside amidst the media frenzy. ¡°I will,¡± I assured him. ¡°I¡¯m scared.¡±

    Sebastian¡¯s response was cryptic yet oddlyforting. ¡°Don¡¯t be. I have a n.¡±

    I couldn¡¯t help but press him for more details. ¡°What n?¡± I asked, my skepticism evident.

    Sebastian remained tight-lipped. ¡°Don¡¯t worry about that. I¡¯ll send you the detailster.¡±

    With those words, he ended the call, leaving me feeling both relieved and bewildered. I shared the vague information with Kieran, who looked just as puzzled as I felt.

    ¡°What did he say?¡± Kieran inquired, his curiosity piqued.

    Be, ever the opportunist, decided to join the conversation with a grin. ¡°Let it go, this is my naan.¡±

    Kieran shot her a disapproving look. ¡°I held it first, so it¡¯s mine.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s mine, you idiot.¡±

    ¡°Take the other one.¡±Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.

    ¡°You take the other one.¡±

    As I was trying to make sense of the cryptic n-orck thereof-Sebastian had alluded to during our phone call, my phone buzzed with a new message. I eagerly opened it, hoping for some rity. However, the message left me even more confused than I was before.

    ¡°I will pick you up at nine. Wear something nice,¡± the message read.

    I frowned at my phone, utterly perplexed by Sebastian¡¯s vague instructions. How could getting dressed up and going out possibly solve the chaos that had erupted in our lives? But with no other n in sight, I decided to trust his judgment, at least for the time being.

    ¡°This is what he says,¡± I announced, showing the message to Be, who had momentarily halted her squabble with my brother to read the text.

    Be arched an eyebrow, mirroring my confusion. ¡°It¡¯s so vague,¡± shemented, her expression mirroring mine. ¡°But hey, it¡¯s Sebastian Thornton. He knows what¡¯s best.¡±

    I couldn¡¯t help but shake my head. My trust in Sebastian¡¯s judgment was wavering at this point. I had a nagging feeling that this rendezvous would only add moreyers ofplexity to our already convoluted situation.

    I turned to Kieran, seeking some guidance or insight. He simply shrugged his shoulders, his nonchnt response doing little to ease my uncertainty. ¡°Whatever you feel like doing, sis,¡± he offered.

    I rolled my eyes, feeling a mix of frustration and resignation. Neither Be nor Kieran seemed particrly concerned about the gravity of this situation, and I couldn¡¯t me them entirely. After all, it was my actions that had led us here in the first ce.

    With a heavy sigh, I responded to Sebastian¡¯s message with a simple ¡°Okay.¡±

    ¨C

    Nervously, I waited in my room as the clock ticked closer to nine. I had followed Sebastian¡¯s cryptic instruction to ¡°wear something nice,¡± opting for a red dress with a daring high slit that entuated my legs. My hair was styled in a half-up, half-down fashion, and I had meticulously applied the finishing touches to my makeup.

    As I applied thest stroke of mascara, Be¡¯s voice cut through the silence. ¡°He¡¯s here,¡± she announced, her excitement palpable.

    I took a deep breath, my heart racing, and walked out of my room to see Sebastian standing at the doorway. His presence was undeniably striking, and I couldn¡¯t help but take in how good he looked. He was impably dressed in a tailored suit that emphasized his strong physique, his dark hair neatly styled, and his piercing blue eyes held a confident yet enigmatic allure.

    I raised an eyebrow at him, trying to mask my nervousness. ¡°How did you manage to make it inside?¡± I inquired, my curiosity piqued.

    Sebastian offered a wry smile, his gaze never leaving me. ¡°We came from the back door,¡± he exined casually. ¡°You look stunning,¡± he added, hispliment leaving a warm flutter in my chest.

    A faint smile tugged at my lips as I returned thepliment. ¡°You don¡¯t look bad either.¡±

    Sebastian extended his hand toward me, a gesture that was both gentlemanly and teasing. ¡°Shall we?¡± he asked, his tone holding a hint of yfulness.

    I nced at his outstretched hand, then rolled my eyes, choosing instead to walk past him and make my way toward the back door. A soft chuckle escaped from Sebastian, echoing in the hallway.

    As we slipped out of the back door, I noticed a car waiting for us, its engine softly purring. Sebastian graciously opened the door for me, and I immediately hopped inside, the cool leather seats embracing me.

    ¡°Where are we going?¡± I asked, curiosity getting the better of me, as Sebastian took a seat beside me.

    Sebastian leaned backfortably in his seat, his eyes locked on mine as he replied, ¡°It¡¯s a surprise, Mia. Just trust me.¡±

    I hated surprises. Thest time someone surprised me I ended up getting married. But this was different, this was Sebastian.

    The car glided through the streets of the city, taking us on a mysterious journey. I sat in the plush leather seat, my curiosity growing with each passing moment. Where was Sebastian leading us, and what could possibly be his n to resolve our problem?

    Eventually, the car came to a stop, and Sebastian gracefully hopped out, rushing to open the door for me. I stepped out of the vehicle, blinking in confusion as I took in our surroundings. We were at the base of the Statue of Liberty, the iconic symbol of freedom and hope that overlooked the city. My bewilderment deepened. What were we doing here?

    Sebastian turned to me, a faint smile ying on his lips. ¡°Are youing?¡± he asked, extending his hand toward me.

    I hesitated for a moment, still uncertain about the purpose of this unexpected visit, but eventually, I ced my hand in his and stepped out of the car. The area around us was eerily empty, the usual crowds of tourists absent.

    As we began to walk towards the iconic statue, my curiosity got the best of me, and I couldn¡¯t help but ask, ¡°What are we doing here?¡±

    Sebastian cleared his throat, his expression thoughtful. I looked at him, my eyes widening as I saw him suddenly drop down to one knee. My heart raced, and I felt a chill run down my spine. What was happening? Was this part of his n?

    ¡°Dear Mia,¡± Sebastian began, his voiceced with a mixture of tension and anticipation. ¡°Do you want to marry me?¡±

    The world seemed to blur around me as I stared at him in disbelief. This was not at all what I had expected. My mind was hazy, my body trembling with shock and confusion. I couldn¡¯tprehend the audacity of this man¡¯s proposal, given the circumstances.

    My voice quivered as I finally managed to respond.

    ¡°No.¡±

 11

    New York, Mia

    The moment had been surreal, with Sebastian on one knee proposing at the base of the Statue of Liberty. My stunned refusal hung in the air, and for a fleeting instant, I thought perhaps I had overreacted.

    But then, as if the universe had a twisted sense of humor, the scene was interrupted by blinding shes of cameras. Panic surged through me, and I realized with a sinking feeling that the paparazzi had followed us, capturing this disastrous proposal for the world to see.

    Sebastian must have felt the same surge of panic because he grabbed my hand, and we ran towards the waiting car. My mind raced with frustration and embarrassment. I couldn¡¯t believe I had been put in this situation.

    Once safely inside the car, I turned to Sebastian, my anger boiling over. ¡°What the hell were you thinking?!¡± I shouted, my voice trembling with a mix of emotions.

    Sebastian looked sheepish, clearly aware of the magnitude of his mistake. ¡°I¡¯m the one who should be asking that,¡± he admitted, his gaze fixed on me. ¡°How could you turn down my proposal?¡±Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.

    The absurdity of his question struck me like a lightning bolt. ¡°I don¡¯t even know you, you weirdo!¡± I retorted, my anger ring. ¡°Did you really think I would say yes?¡±

    Sebastian nodded sheepishly, and the fury in my eyes intensified. ¡°First, a baby, and now a marriage proposal,¡± I fumed, my frustration mounting. ¡°That¡¯s so stupid. I already have so much going on!¡±

    Sebastian, too, was clearly exasperated. ¡°Me too!¡±

    I let out an exasperated huff, my frustration evident as I tried to make sense of the stupid situation we found ourselves in. ¡°And you still decided to propose to me? Are you crazy?¡± I demanded, my voice filled with incredulity.

    Sebastian, undeterred by my incredulous tone, defended his actions with an air of conviction. ¡°It¡¯s not that crazy if you think about it!¡± he argued.

    I rolled my eyes, unable to fathom his logic. ¡°It is!¡± I retorted, my patience wearing thin. ¡°I wanted to raise this baby alone. I don¡¯t need you. Why are you forcing your way into its life? I know you don¡¯t want this!¡±

    Sebastian¡¯s gaze bore into me, and even though I refused to meet his eyes, I could feel the intensity of his stare. ¡°Are you for real right now, Mia?¡± he asked, his voice a mix of frustration and desperation. ¡°That¡¯s my baby too. And even though a baby wasn¡¯t on my to-do list anytime soon, I want to be involved in its life too. I¡¯m not a freaking deadbeat father, Mia!¡± he yelled.

    His outburst startled me, and I flinched at the sudden esction of emotions. Sebastian¡¯s voice softened as he apologized, ¡°Sorry,¡± he muttered. ¡°But whether you want it or not, I am going to be involved in this.¡±

    I sighed, feeling emotionally drained by the intensity of our conversation. ¡°A baby doesn¡¯t mean marriage,¡± I stated firmly, attempting to convey my perspective. ¡°Just because I carry your baby doesn¡¯t mean we need to get married. We don¡¯t even know each other.¡±

    ¡°Then let¡¯s get to know each other,¡± Sebastian suggested, his tone surprisingly earnest. I nced at him, struck by the unexpected proposal.

    ¡°For the sake of our baby¡­ not marriage,¡± he rified, his eyes locked onto mine.

    I nodded slowly, acknowledging the gravity of the situation. ¡°For the sake of our baby,¡± I repeated, the weight of our unborn child¡¯s presence loomingrge over our conversation.

    The prospect of his constant presence both intrigued and worried me. While I appreciated his willingness to take responsibility for our child, I still didn¡¯t like him. Not even as a friend. In fact, I barely knew him. Sebastian Thornton was a stranger in my life, thrust into it by an unexpected twist of fate.

    Sure, he possessed the qualities that many would find attractive-handsome, wealthy, and, admittedly, skilled in certain areas of life. But beyond that, we couldn¡¯t have been more different. Our worlds were poles apart, and our values and priorities seemed to diverge at every turn.

    He was a sessful businessman with a reputation to uphold, while I was a hardworking professional trying to make a name for myself in my own right.

    Every interaction with Sebastian felt like a collision of worlds, and I couldn¡¯t shake the feeling of unease that washed over me whenever he was near. Our conversations were stilted and awkward, and the silences between us spoke volumes about our differences.

    Yet, despite our ipatibility, there was amon thread that bound us together-the impending arrival of our child. It was a reality we couldn¡¯t escape, and as much as I wanted to keep Sebastian at arm¡¯s length, I knew that our child deserved to have both parents actively involved in their life.

    Just as we seemed to be finding somemon ground amidst the chaos of our lives, my phone started buzzing incessantly. My heart raced as I looked at the caller ID, a sense of foreboding settling over me like a dark cloud.

    Sebastian noticed the fear in my eyes and frowned, his concern palpable. ¡°Are you scared?¡± he asked, his voice gentle.

    I couldn¡¯t deny it. I was terrified. My parents didn¡¯t yet know about my divorce from Gavin, and the impending scandal of my pregnancy and the failed marriage proposal were thest things I wanted to reveal to them. Gavin had been equally reticent about sharing the truth with our families, fully aware of the consequences of his actions.

    With trembling fingers, I unlocked my phone and essed the messages that had flooded my inbox. My worst fear was realized as I read the contents. The messages contained various screenshots and links to articles, all bearing the headlines of the disastrous proposal and the rumors swirling around my unexpected pregnancy. The gossip had spread like wildfire, and the world now knew the tangled mess of my personal life.

    Sebastian watched as my face paled with each new revtion. The weight of my parents¡¯ inevitable anger and disappointment pressed down on me, and I couldn¡¯t help but feel trapped in a nightmare of my own making.

    As I swiped through the messages, my brother¡¯s name appeared on the screen. He had sent a text, and the contents left me with a mix of dread and resignation.

    Mia, Mom and Dad know.

 12

    New York, Sebastian

    As I sat in the car with Mia, the memory of her loud and unequivocal ¡°no¡± echoing in my mind, I couldn¡¯t help but feel a strong urge to facepalm myself. I had always heard that being rejected during a marriage proposal was a man¡¯s worst nightmare, and now, I was living that nightmare. It was the kind of experience that made a man want to change his name, move to another country, or perhaps even another.

    But of course, it was happening to me, Sebastian Thornton, a man who was used to handling life¡¯s obstacles with grace and charm. However, this situation was different, and it involved Mia, the hard-headed woman who was now carrying my child.

    Mia¡¯s rejection hadn¡¯t just been a blow to my ego; it had been a stark reminder of theplexities of our situation. We were two people who barely knew each other, thrust into a life-altering event that neither of us had anticipated or desired.

    I stole a nce at Mia, her face a mix of anger and fear. It was the fear that intrigued me the most. Who was Mia afraid of? Was it me? I doubted it. There was something deeper at y here, something that Mia wasn¡¯t sharing.

    As her phone continued to buzz incessantly with messages, I watched her closely, and her pallor became increasingly pronounced. When she finally read the text messages, her entire expression changed. Her face turned pale, and her eyes widened with a mixture of shock and dread.

    I couldn¡¯t help but lean closer, my concern for her overriding any lingering awkwardness between us. ¡°Mia, what¡¯s wrong?¡± I asked, my voiceced with genuine worry.

    She looked up at me, her lips trembling slightly as she tried to find the right words. ¡°My parents¡­ they know,¡± she whispered, her voice filled with anguish.

    The revtion hit me like a ton of bricks. Mia¡¯s parents were now aware of the scandalous situation we found ourselves in, and judging by her reaction, it was clear that this was a catastrophe of epic proportions in her eyes.

    I couldn¡¯t help but feel a pang of sympathy for her. While my own parents were certainly not thrilled with the recent developments in my life, they were far more understanding than Mia¡¯s family, who would undoubtedly be deeply disappointed by the circumstances surrounding their daughter¡¯s pregnancy.

    ¡°Is it really that bad?¡± I asked Mia, my genuine curiosity evident in my tone. I wanted to understand the depth of her predicament, to grasp the full extent of her fears and anxieties.

    A humorless chuckle escaped her lips, a stark contrast to the emotions that had been churning within her. ¡°Bad? It¡¯s the worst,¡± she admitted in a hushed tone, her voiceced with vulnerability. ¡°Especially since I haven¡¯t told them about my divorce yet.¡±

    Her revtion left me momentarily stunned. ¡°Divorce?¡± I repeated, my eyebrows shooting up in surprise.

    Mia nodded, her gaze downcast as she continued to confide in me. ¡°Yes, I was married to Gavin Campbell up until a few months ago,¡± she confessed. ¡°But I haven¡¯t told my parents about the divorce yet because, well, even though Gavin was in the wrong, they would still take his side. I¡¯m not exactly their ideal daughter-the dream daughter they had in mind.¡±

    My heart went out to her as I heard the pain in her words. ¡°You¡¯re a very sessful fashion consultant,¡± I pointed out, wanting to offer her some reassurance. ¡°Your aplishments speak for themselves.¡±

    Mia managed a lopsided smile, acknowledging my words. ¡°Tell that to my parents,¡± she said, her voice tinged with bitterness. ¡°And now, with this pregnancy and marriage scandal making headlines, I know they¡¯ll find out sooner orter. I just wish it could beter-muchter.¡±

    Moved by her distress, I reached out and gently took her hand, relieved when she didn¡¯t pull away. ¡°We¡¯re in this together,¡± I told her earnestly. ¡°My parents aren¡¯t thrilled either, and I have to admit, they¡¯re the ones who suggested marriage.¡±

    Her reaction was immediate-her head shot up, and her eyes widened in disbelief. ¡°You¡¯re lying,¡± she responded, clearly taken aback by the revtion.

    I shook my head, my expression sincere. ¡°No, I¡¯m not,¡± I assured her. ¡°They¡¯re very religious, and in their eyes, it¡¯s the right thing to do.¡±

    Mia sighed in exasperation and then turned her gaze toward the window. As we continued our drive, we arrived at her street, only to be met with a scene that filled both of us with dread.

    ¡°There are so many cars outside,¡± Mia observed, her voice tinged with anxiety.

    I nced out the window, confirming her suspicions. ¡°Yes, it is,¡± I confirmed. ¡°We¡¯ll use the back door.¡± I directed my driver to head toward the rear entrance, hoping to avoid the paparazzi¡¯s relentless scrutiny.

    My driver turned his head around and looked apologetically at me. ¡°They blocked it sir.¡±

    ¡°Motherfuckers.¡±

    As we sat in the car, blocked by the paparazzi and faced with the dilemma of how to get Mia safely inside her home, my mind raced to find a solution. Unfortunately, every attempt to devise a n came up empty. The photographers were relentless, and the options seemed limited.

    ¡°Do you want to drive to mine?¡± I suggested, desperation creeping into my voice. ¡°At least until the paparazzi leaves.¡±

    Mia regarded me skeptically, clearly taken aback by the offer. ¡°You want me to go to your apartment?¡± she asked, her uncertainty apparent.

    I nodded earnestly. ¡°Yes, it might be the safest option right now,¡± I exined. ¡°You can stay over until morning. I know the paparazzi will hound you with insane questions, and I¡¯d rather you avoid that.¡±

    Her thoughtful gaze lingered for a moment before she finally relented. ¡°Fine,¡± she agreed, her voice carrying a hint of resignation. ¡°I¡¯ll text Be that I¡¯m staying over at yours.¡±N?velDrama.Org exclusive content.

 13

    New York, Mia

    As we continued our journey toward my new, albeit temporary, refuge at Sebastian¡¯s apartment, I took out my phone and quickly texted Be, informing her of my unexpected change in ns. I knew it might seem absurd, but the prospect of escaping the clutches of the relentless paparazzi outweighed any reservations I had about staying over at Sebastian¡¯s ce. Her response came promptly, as I expected, and it carried her signature lightheartedness: ¡°Alrighty, Mrs. Almost Thornton.¡±

    I couldn¡¯t help but roll my eyes at her jest. Be had always been one to find humor in the most unconventional situations, a trait that now provided a touch of levity to my current predicament.

    However, as the car carried us closer to Sebastian¡¯s apartment, my mind began to race with thoughts of my parents. I couldn¡¯t help but mentally prepare myself for the drama that was sure to unfold. Their disappointment and disapproval weighed heavily on my mind.

    Suddenly, another concern surfaced. ¡°I don¡¯t have any clothes or a toothbrush,¡± I blurted out to Sebastian, realizing that I hadn¡¯t nned for an overnight stay.

    He responded reassuringly, ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I have spare clothes you can borrow, and there are extra toothbrushes. It¡¯s just for one night.¡±

    The thought of wearing Sebastian¡¯s clothes and using his toothbrush seemed odd to me, and I couldn¡¯t help but express my reservations. ¡°I have to wear your clothes?¡± I asked incredulously. ¡°And your underwear?¡±

    He chuckled at my difort, his eyebrows raised in amusement. ¡°My boxers are veryfortable,¡± he countered with a yful grin. ¡°You¡¯ll see.¡±

    ¡°Ew,¡± I replied, scrunching up my nose at the idea.

    Sebastian raised an eyebrow in mock disbelief. ¡°You had my whole dick inside you, and my boxers are ¡®ew¡¯? Seriously?¡± Hisughter filled the car, and I couldn¡¯t help but blush at the reminder of our passionate encounter.

    ¡°Please don¡¯t say that,¡± I muttered, my cheeks flushing deeper.

    His amusement lingered as he exined our destination. The car came to a stop in front of a towering skyscraper, and he pointed upward. ¡°I¡¯m on the top floor,¡± he announced proudly. ¡°In the morning, you¡¯ll literally wake up in the clouds.¡±

    Sebastian¡¯s mention of waking up among the clouds in his penthouse high above the city prompted augh from me. ¡°Imagine waking up and seeing a ne enter your room,¡± I mused, shaking my head in amusement. ¡°You rich people are really a different breed.¡±

    My mind drifted to a bizarre memory from my past  a time when my ex-husband Gavin had bought an Alpaca because he believed his great-grandmother had been reincarnated as one. It was one of those entric notions that made me question the decisions he¡¯d made. I chuckled softly, reflecting on the peculiarities of wealthy individuals and their extravagant lifestyles.

    As we arrived at the entrance of the skyscraper, Sebastian courteously held the door open for me, and I followed him inside. The hotel staff had clearly been alerted to his arrival, and I couldn¡¯t help but notice the judgmental nce from one of them. I knew I¡¯d have to get used to this sort of scrutiny.

    Once inside the elevator, Sebastian smoothly produced his keycard and scanned it on the small screen. The elevator doors closed, and we began our ascent to his penthouse. However, our journey took an unexpected turn as the elevator jerked suddenly, plunging us into darkness.

    ¡°Ahhh!¡± I screamed in surprise, instinctively reaching out for support.

    Sebastian¡¯s voice was calm, though I could hear a hint of annoyance as he muttered, ¡°Not again.¡± It seemed that this wasn¡¯t the first time he¡¯d experienced elevator trouble in his lofty residence.

    As panic began to grip me, I clutched onto the railing, my heart racing. The tight space and disorienting darkness only added to my unease.

    Sebastian, on the other hand, seemedposed. ¡°Don¡¯t worry,¡± he reassured me, though his voice still held a touch of frustration. ¡°This has happened before, and it usually gets fixed quickly.¡±

    As panic began to overtake me in the darkened elevator, I couldn¡¯t help but wonder why this wasn¡¯t the first time Sebastian had experienced such an issue. For someone as wealthy as him, I had expected his penthouse elevator to be top-notch. It was disconcerting to imagine paying thousands of dors for a ce only to have the elevator glitch.

    ¡°What the hell?!¡± I eximed, my voice shaking with frustration and fear. Memories from my past began to resurface, and the confined, dark space of the elevator intensified my difort. I despised dark ces; they were a reminder of all the times my father had dragged me by my hair and locked me in a dark room for hours as a punishment.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I¡¯m sorry,¡± I whispered to myself, tears brimming in my eyes. The trauma of my childhood experiences made the darkness all the more unbearable.

    Suddenly, a distant voice reached my ears. ¡°Mia, Mia, what are you apologizing for?¡± Who was that? Was that Kieran, my brother? Whose voice was that?

    ¡°Kieran, brother?¡± I whispered in relief, my voice trembling. The sound of his name offered a glimmer offort in the oppressive darkness. My hands felt weak, and my brain was hazy from the anxiety.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I¡¯m sorry,¡± I repeated, my words bing a mantra of fear and regret. It was as if the past had resurfaced, and I was reliving those terrifying moments of istion and darkness from my childhood.

    In the midst of my panic, a sudden sensation on my legs made me scream. ¡°Ahhh!¡± My mind raced, unable to distinguish between reality and the traumatic memories that haunted me.

    My hands were trembling uncontrobly, and I felt myself slipping into a state of panic. It was then that I sensed someone¡¯s warm embrace, aforting voice urging me to breathe. I allowed myself to lean into the stranger¡¯s arms, feeling strangely safe and protected. My head rested on his shoulder as I whispered desperately, ¡°Get me out¡­ get me out.¡±

    Suddenly, the lights flickered to life, and the elevator began moving again. I found myself still held in the stranger¡¯s arms as I slowly opened my eyes. Recognition washed over me  it was Sebastian. I had been with Sebastian throughout this terrifying ordeal.

    ¡°Get off me,¡± I muttered as I hastily straightened my hair and tried to regain myposure. I couldn¡¯t bear to look him in the eyes. He had witnessed my vulnerability, and it left me feeling exposed and ashamed. But his gaze remained fixed on me, concern etched across his face.

    ¡°What are you looking at?¡± I asked, raising my eyebrows as I attempted to mask my fear with a hint of defensiveness. Sebastian shook his head, refusing to avert his gaze.

    ¡°Was it Campbell?¡± he inquired, his voice tinged with anger. I furrowed my eyebrows, confusion filling my thoughts. ¡°Was it that¡­ that jerk Campbell who hurt you?!¡± His voice grew louder, and I could see the rage simmering in his eyes as he mentioned Gavin Campbell¡¯s name.

    I shook my head, my voice barely rising above a whisper as I confessed, ¡°It was my father.¡±Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.

 14

    New York, Sebastian

    As I watched Mia step out of the elevator, I couldn¡¯t help but feel a sharp pang in my chest. Her trembling, the fear in her voice, and the vulnerability she had shown revealed a painful truth about her past. Beautiful Mia hadn¡¯t experienced a happy childhood, and the realization struck me deeply. It wasn¡¯t Gavin Campbell who had hurt her, but her own father. How could any parent treat their child in such a cruel manner?

    The elevator doors opened, and Mia silently walked ahead as I held the door to my penthouse open for her. I attempted to lighten the mood, saying, ¡°Wee to my cozy home.¡±

    She nced around andmented, ¡°It¡¯s so¡­ empty. Are you afraid of furniture?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s called simplicity.¡± I chuckled.

    Mia sat on the plush white sofa in the living room, feeling its softness. ¡°It¡¯s so soft,¡± she remarked.

    ¡°Only the best of the best,¡± I replied, emphasizing the quality of the furnishings.

    She raised an eyebrow at me. ¡°Waw.¡±

    ¡°Why don¡¯t you freshen up, and I will make us something to eat?¡± I say.

    ¡°You can cook?¡±

    I nodded in agreement, acknowledging that I was quite capable in the kitchen. ¡°Of course, do you think I would starve myself?¡± I quipped, humorcing my words.

    Miaughed at my response. ¡°You¡¯re rich enough to have someone cook for you.¡±

    I raised my eyebrows yfully, challenging her. ¡°And risk their questionable culinary skills? No, thank you.¡±

    Herughter was a pleasant sound to my ears. ¡°Where¡¯s the bathroom?¡± she asked, diverting the conversation.

    I pointed toward a hallway. ¡°Right down there, second door on the left.¡±

    She nodded and headed in that direction, her steps echoing through the empty penthouse.

    I headed to my closet to retrieve a pair of boxers and an oversized shirt for Mia. I knocked gently on the bathroom door and said, ¡°I¡¯ll leave the clothes here,¡± as Iid them out on the floor, careful not to invade her privacy.

    My next destination was the well-appointed kitchen, where I nned to prepare dinner. The minimalist design and sleek, modern appliances contributed to the ambiance of sophistication that permeated my penthouse. This was a space where I took sce in the art of cooking, even amidst the chaos of unexpected events.

    I opened the fridge and pulled out the essential ingredients for pasta carbonara: eggs, Pecorino Romano cheese, pancetta, garlic, ck pepper, and fresh parsley for garnish. Eachponent, I knew, would y a pivotal role in crafting this ssic Italian dish.

    With the eggs, cheese, and other ingredients neatly arranged on the countertop, I made my way to the kitchen table. I began the meticulous process of preparing the meal, a symphony of vors that would, for a time, distract us from the whirlwind that had engulfed our lives.

    As I diligently worked, the apartment gradually filled with the tantalizing aroma of sauteed garlic and the rich, smoky scent of pancetta crisping to perfection. The sound of bubbling water in the pot was music to my ears as I boiled pasta to al dente perfection.

    My focus remained on the task at hand, but my mind couldn¡¯t help but drift back to Mia. How had she managed to navigate the challenges life had thrown her way? We were two strangers, thrust into an extraordinary situation, yet in our shared vulnerability, there was a burgeoning connection.

    The dish nearedpletion, and the fragrance of garlic and pancetta was joined by the tantalizing scent of creamy sauce. The moment was almost perfect, an oasis of normalcy amidst the chaos.

    Just as I ced the final touches on the pasta carbonara, I heard the soft footsteps of Mia entering the kitchen. She looked adorable in the oversized shirt and boxers I¡¯d provided. ¡°It smells so good,¡± she remarked, her smile brightening the room.

    I served a generous portion of pasta carbonara onto her te, watching as she took her first bite with evident relish. Her enjoyment was gratifying; it was a simple but heartfelt gesture to make her feel at ease.

    ¡°You¡¯re so good at cooking,¡± sheplimented between bites, her voice filled with appreciation, ¡°my child will be well fed.¡±

    ¡°Our¡­¡± I corrected her gently, meeting her gaze with a warm smile, ¡°our child.¡±

    Mia met my gaze, her eyes softening as she acknowledged the unity that had been thrust upon us by this unexpected twist of fate. ¡°Yeah, yeah,¡± she replied, her words infused with warmth and understanding.

    As we continued to share the meal, conversation flowed naturally between us, withughter and moments of quiet reflection. It was a surreal situation, two individuals from different worlds brought together by circumstances neither could have anticipated.

    However, just as we began to find a semnce offort in each other¡¯s presence, my phone buzzed, shattering the tranquil atmosphere.

    The sender¡¯s name on the screen sent a shiver down my spine  it was my father. I hesitated for a moment, debating whether to open it or leave it unread. Curiosity, however, got the better of me, and with a deep breath, I tapped the message to reveal its contents.

    The words that appeared on my screen felt like a punch to the gut, and my heart dropped as I read them: ¡°That woman is the devil¡¯s reincarnation.¡±

    He saw the failed marriage proposal.N?velDrama.Org exclusive content.

    I nced up from my phone, a mixture of anger, frustration, and resignation swirling within me. My father¡¯s disapproval and disdain for Mia had reached a new low. It was clear that he saw her as the embodiment of evil, an unrelenting force against which he needed to protect his family¡¯s reputation.

    Mia, blissfully unaware of the message¡¯s content, continued to enjoy her meal. But I couldn¡¯t help but feel a deep sense of unease. My father¡¯s reaction was only the tip of the iceberg. I knew that his displeasure was only beginning.

    I locked my phone and set it aside, forcing a smile to mask my inner turmoil. I couldn¡¯t let Mia see the message, not now. She didn¡¯t deserve to bear the brunt of my family¡¯s judgment and prejudice. Instead, I needed to find a way to shield her from the storm that was brewing.

    ¡°So, Mia,¡± I began, changing the topic to something lighter, ¡°what do you think about dessert? I have a rather impressive collection of gto vors.¡±

    She nced at me, her eyes bright with curiosity. ¡°Dessert sounds wonderful. Surprise me!¡±

    I offered her a reassuring smile, grateful for her willingness to navigate this unfamiliar territory with me. Little did she know that the challenges ahead would test us in ways we couldn¡¯t yet imagine.

    As I led Mia towards the dessert collection, I couldn¡¯t help but wonder how we would face the storm that was gathering on the horizon. My father¡¯s message was just the beginning, a warning sign of the obstacles and judgments we would encounter on this unexpected journey together.

 15

    New York, Mia

    The mood felt cozy and our bellies were full after the delicious meal Sebastian had prepared. Surprisingly, he turned out to be a good cook, and I couldn¡¯t help but feel satisfied and appreciative of his hospitality. It was an unexpected twist in a day that had been filled with one surprise after another.

    But now, as the night drew closer, a new dilemma arose. I surveyed the room, my eyes eventuallynding on the spacious bed. It was evident that there was only one bed, and I couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of unease.

    ¡°We will both sleep here?¡± I asked, my voice tinged with uncertainty.

    Sebastian entered the room with an extra nket in hand, seemingly unbothered by the arrangement. ¡°Yeah, something wrong with it?¡± he asked, his casual demeanor contrasting with my growing unease.

    I watched as he threw the nket in my direction, and I couldn¡¯t avoid addressing the elephant in the room any longer. ¡°There¡¯s one bed¡­¡± I pointed out, my voice trailing off as I hesitated to voice my concerns.

    Sebastian seemed unfazed, raising an eyebrow as if challenging me. ¡°Yeah, and?¡± he retorted, clearly not seeing the issue.

    My difort must have been evident as I continued to stare at the bed. I hesitated, choosing my words carefully. ¡°I¡¯m not going to sleep with you,¡± I finally said, the wordsing out more assertive than I had intended.

    A hint of amusement danced in Sebastian¡¯s eyes as he responded, ¡°You did it before. What¡¯s wrong with it now?¡±

    I bit my lip, refraining from admitting that thest time we shared a bed, I had been drunk, and now, I was sober and more aware of my actions. Instead, I opted for a different excuse. ¡°You snore,¡± I said, hoping it would discourage him.

    Sebastian¡¯sughter filled the room, and he countered, ¡°Really? I think you snore.¡±

    Rolling my eyes, I attempted to remain firm in my decision. ¡°I¡¯ll sleep on the couch,¡± I dered, eyeing the rather ufortable-looking leather couch in the corner of the room.

    Sebastian, however, seemed unyielding. ¡°Don¡¯t be so stubborn,¡± he said, approaching the bed. ¡°The bed is big enough for the two of us.¡±

    I hesitated, torn between my pride and the practicality of sharing the bed. I wasn¡¯t quite sure what had changed between us since ourst encounter, but I knew that I wasn¡¯t as willing to let my guard down this time. Still, the thought of spending the night on that couch was less than appealing.

    With a sigh, I relented, albeit reluctantly. ¡°Fine,¡± I agreed, taking a step toward the bed. ¡°But we stay on our own sides, okay?¡±

    Sebastian chuckled, ¡°Deal,¡± he said, and we both settled into our designated spots on the bed.Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.

    With a sense of resignation, I made my way towards the leather couch in the corner of the room, determined to create a clear boundary. I gathered all the avable pillows I could find, piling them into my arms. As I started to throw them onto the bed, Sebastian watched me with an amused expression, curiosity evident in his eyes.

    ¡°What are you doing?¡± he asked, his voiceced with curiosity and amusement, as he stood at the end of the bed.

    I continued arranging the pillows in the middle of the bed, forming a makeshift divider. ¡°Making a clear line with these pillows,¡± I exined, my tone determined. ¡°I don¡¯t want your big ass legs touching me or hear you snore.¡±

    Sebastian couldn¡¯t help butugh at my resourcefulness. ¡°Do you want earplugs too?¡± he teased, a yful glint in his eyes.

    I rolled my eyes, unamused by his banter. ¡°Haha, funny,¡± I muttered, clearly unimpressed with his attempt at humor.

    With my barrier of pillows now in ce, I climbed into bed on my side, feeling a certain level of satisfaction that my space had been delineated. Sebastian, on the other hand, remained standing, his gaze fixed on me. His persistent scrutiny annoyed me.

    ¡°Why are you looking at me like that?¡± I asked, my irritation evident in my tone.

    He simply shook his head, a small smile ying on his lips. ¡°You¡¯re so funny,¡± he remarked, his voice carrying a hint of fondness.

    With that, he finally moved to his designated spot on the bed, causing it to shift slightly as hey down. We bothy there in silence, the pillows serving as our makeshift divide. I couldn¡¯t deny that I felt a mixture of relief and apprehension about the proximity we now shared.

    As I tried to settle into afortable position, my phone buzzed once more, interrupting my attempts at rxation. I reached over to grab it, a sense of dread settling in my stomach as I nced at the screen to see the name of the sender. I wished I hadn¡¯t looked.

    The message was from my father, and the words sent a chill down my spine: ¡°You are such a disgrace to the family! I wished your mom had aborted you!¡±

    Sebastian¡¯s earlier inquiry about my family had stirred up painful memories and emotions I had long tried to suppress. My father¡¯s message only served as a stark reminder of the strained rtionship I had with my family, particrly my father¡¯s harsh treatment of me.

    Closing the message, I set my phone aside, my thoughts consumed by theplex web of emotions that had been awakened. I stared at the ceiling, wrestling with the unresolved issues from my past, all while lying just inches away from the man who had unexpectedly be a part of my present.

 16

    New York, Mia

    I was roused from my sleep by the bright morning sunlight streaming into the room, warming my face. Something heavy was covering my left eye, and when I opened it, I let out a startled scream. Sebastian¡¯s arm was sprawled across my face, and my initial reaction was sheer panic.

    Sebastian jerked awake in response to my scream, blinking groggily at me. ¡°Is this how you wake up? Like a damn cock?!¡± he grumbled, moving to his side of the bed.

    ¡°I made this pillow wall so you don¡¯te on my side! And you still did!¡± I red at him, my heart still racing from the shock.

    ¡°I can¡¯t control my dreams,¡± he retorted, his voiceced with annoyance.

    ¡°And that¡¯s the whole point of the pillow barrier  to keep you on your side.¡±

    He rolled his eyes, clearly unfazed by my indignation, and wiped his face with his hand. ¡° , you didn¡¯t die!¡±

    Ignoring his sarcasticment, I decided it was time to get out of bed. ¡°I¡¯ll wash my face and brush my teeth, and then you can bring me home,¡± I told him, my tone firm.

    Sebastian raised an eyebrow. ¡°No breakfast?¡± he inquired, a hint of amusement in his voice.

    I paused for a moment, realizing that Sebastian was, in fact, a skilled cook. ¡°After breakfast, of course,¡± I amended. I couldn¡¯t deny the allure of a delicious meal prepared by his capable hands. I could feel his smile even though I wasn¡¯t looking at him.

    As I made my way to the bathroom to freshen up, my thoughts drifted back to the message my father had sent me. His words had struck a chord, despite having heard them countless times before. The fact that I was now pregnant added an entirely newyer ofplexity and emotion to his hurtful remarks. The sting of his words had a different resonance when I considered the life growing inside me.N?velDrama.Org exclusive content.

    After washing my face and brushing my teeth, I wiped my face dry and gathered my belongings. It was time to face the day. I made my way to the kitchen, where the mouthwatering aroma of eggs and waffles greeted my senses.

    ¡°It smells so good,¡± I remarked with genuine appreciation as I took a seat at the table. Sebastian handed me a cup of tea and ced a te filled with waffles, eggs, and pancakes in front of me. My stomach grumbled in response to the delicious spread.

    ¡°Bon appetit,¡± he said with a warm smile.

    I couldn¡¯t help but smile back, grateful for the effort he had put into breakfast. We may have our differences, but there was no denying that Sebastian Thornton knew his way around a kitchen.

    After finishing a hearty breakfast, I felt a newfound sense of satisfaction. Sebastian had proven himself to be an impressive cook, and I couldn¡¯t help but appreciate the effort he had put into the meal. With my belly full and my spirits lifted, I knew it was time to face the day.

    We headed downstairs to the car, and I couldn¡¯t help but be grateful that the elevator was functioning properly this time. Sebastian gantly assisted me into the car, and we set off toward my apartment. I hoped fervently that the paparazzi had dispersed by now.

    As I gazed out of the car window, my thoughts were consumed by the life growing inside me. The realization that I would soon be a mother both thrilled and terrified me. It was an opportunity to be a better parent than my own had been, especially my mother.

    My mother¡¯s plight was aplex one. She hade from a humble background and faced immense societal pressure, but I wished she had found the strength to stand up to my father or, at the very least, to seek a divorce. Instead, she endured his countless disrespect and mistreatment.

    ¡°What are you thinking about?¡± Sebastian¡¯s voice broke through my reverie.

    I shrugged my shoulders, a bit hesitant to share my thoughts. ¡°Just life,¡± I replied cryptically.

    Then, a question urred to me, one that had been bothering me since the morning. ¡°Your parents are religious, right?¡± I inquired, turning to face Sebastian. ¡°I¡¯m pretty sure they saw the headlinesst night. What did they say?¡±

    Sebastian remained quiet for a moment, his expression pensive. It was as though he was carrying a heavy burden on his shoulders. ¡°Nothing, really,¡± he finally replied. ¡°I don¡¯t think they¡¯ve seen it yet.¡±

    I contemted his response, wondering if he was telling the truth or merely shielding me from any potential conflicts. The car soon pulled into my street, and I released a sigh of relief as I noted the absence of paparazzi. Thank goodness for small mercies.

    Just when I had dared to hope that luck was finally on my side, a sinking feeling gripped my stomach as I spotted a familiar face standing in front of my apartment. ¡°You¡¯ve got to be kidding me,¡± I groaned audibly, disbelief and frustration coursing through me.

    Sebastian, noticing my distress, inquired, ¡°Who is that bonehead standing there?¡±

    I couldn¡¯t help but let out an exasperated sigh before reluctantly responding, ¡°That bonehead is my ex-husband.¡±

 17

    New York, Sebastian

    When Mia said it was her ex-husband Gavin, something inside me snapped. It was as if a protective instinct I hadn¡¯t fully realized I possessed had suddenly awakened. My protective tendencies surged to the surface, and I couldn¡¯t stand by and let anyone hurt her, especially not this obnoxious ex of hers.

    I quickly exited the car and opened the door for Mia, sensing her nervousness. My hand instinctively found its ce on the small of her back, a silent gesture of support and reassurance. I half-expected her to remove my hand, but to my surprise, she left it there, as if seeking thefort it offered.

    Together, we approached Gavin, who stood there with fury in his eyes, sizing us up with a suspicious gaze. ¡°Mia, are you alright?¡± he asked, his voice a mix of concern and anger.

    Mia¡¯s response was curt and confident. ¡°I¡¯m perfectly fine, Gavin.¡±

    He couldn¡¯t hide his astonishment at the sight of her. ¡°What are you doing here?¡± She inquired, still unable to hide her irritation.

    ¡°I saw the news. I¡­ are you pregnant?¡± Gavin asked, his voice softening somewhat.

    Mia nodded calmly, and her answer seemed to infuriate him further. ¡°Yes, I am.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re lying,¡± he challenged, his skepticism evident in his voice. ¡°The doctors told us you were infertile.¡±

    Mia¡¯s piercing response made it clear she wasn¡¯t backing down. ¡°It said that one of us was infertile, and since I¡¯m pregnant, I¡¯m pretty sure it¡¯s not me.¡±

    Gavinughed bitterly, a sound that grated on my nerves. ¡°Oh, so you¡¯re saying it¡¯s me? I have a baby on the way too,¡± he dered arrogantly.N?velDrama.Org exclusive content.

    Mia responded with a yful smirk, taunting him. ¡°Are you sure it¡¯s yours?¡± Her words were loaded with sarcasm.

    Gavin¡¯s face paled, and his overconfidence wavered. ¡°I¡­ I am pretty sure it¡¯s mine,¡± he stammered, attempting to regain control.

    Mia¡¯s nonchnt reply seemed to rattle him even more. ¡°Well, whatever makes you sleep at night, right.¡±

    Then, Gavin crossed a line that no one should ever cross. His harsh words, calling Mia derogatory names and using her of a one-night stand, were more than I could bear. My anger surged, and I couldn¡¯t stand idly by.

    ¡°You don¡¯t talk about my baby¡¯s mother like that,¡± I grumbled through gritted teeth, my voiceced with a dangerous edge as I shot Gavin a deadly re.

    Gavin taunted us further, refusing to back down. ¡°What are you going to do?¡± he sneered, his arrogance undiminished.

    The temptation to give him a piece of my mind, to unleash my pent-up frustration, was strong. But before I could react, it was Mia who took matters into her own hands-literally. Her fist connected with Gavin¡¯s cheek in a swift, unexpected punch that echoed through the air.

    Pride surged within me as I witnessed her assert herself, showing a strength and resilience that made me admire her even more. ¡°You go, girl,¡± I thought, unable to suppress a silent cheer for her bravery.

    Gavin¡¯s eyes widened in shock as he clutched his cheek, his taunting expression reced by one of disbelief. He hadn¡¯t seen thating. Mia stood her ground, unwavering and unapologetic, and it was a sight to behold.

    With that punch, she had not only defended herself but also silenced her arrogant ex-husband.

    As Bonehead Campbell reeled from Mia¡¯s unexpected punch, his disbelief quickly turned into a mix of frustration and anger. ¡°What the fuck, Mia?!¡± he eximed, his voice filled with both hurt and indignation.

    I couldn¡¯t help but chuckle at his reaction, finding his shock rather satisfying. ¡°It¡¯s better you move from here,¡± I interjected, my tone dripping with sarcasm.

    Gavin turned his attention to Mia, his desperation evident as he tried to salvage their rtionship. ¡°I wanted us to work out. To get back together. Marriages have ups and downs, Mia. This man won¡¯t treat you any better,¡± he pleaded, attempting to sway her with his words.

    Mia, however, remained resolute, not swayed by hisst-ditch efforts. She took a deep breath, ready to deliver her own piece of mind. ¡°There¡¯s nothing to work out anymore, Gavin,¡± she responded firmly. ¡°And cheating doesn¡¯t count as ups and downs. You were disrespectful enough throughout the entire marriage, so do us all a favor and respectfully leave! I have nothing for you anymore. Nothing!¡±

    I watched as pain flickered in Gavin¡¯s eyes, his realization sinking in. But the only emotion I felt was pride for Mia. She had not only stood up for herself but also refused to ept his maniption and disrespect.

    With onest nce, Gavin turned and walked away, defeated. Mia and I headed back inside the apartment building, where we took the stairs to her apartment. She knocked twice on the door, and it swung open to reveal her friend and roommate, Be.

    ¡°You¡¯re here!¡± Be squealed, rushing forward to embrace Mia. Then she turned her attention to me, offering her gratitude. ¡°Thank you for taking care of my friend, Mr. Thornton.¡±

    I couldn¡¯t help butugh at the formality. ¡°It¡¯s just Sebastian. And you¡¯re wee. Tell your friend to get used to it,¡± I quipped yfully before waving Mia goodbye.

    As I made my way back to the car, my phone buzzed with a new message, diverting my attention from the recent events.

    Bring that girl over for dinner ¨C Dad

 18

    New York, Mia

    Be was busy preparing a pot of chicken soup while I sat at the kitchen counter, watching her deftly move around the kitchen. She couldn¡¯t contain her curiosity about recent events, and she decided to address the elephant in the room.

    ¡°I cannot believe you turned his marriage proposal down. Girl, I was screaming when I saw the headlines,¡± Be eximed, her excitement evident in her voice.

    I couldn¡¯t help butugh at her enthusiasm. ¡°Come on now, Bells, I barely know the man,¡± I replied, leaning back on the counter. ¡°If you were in my shoes, you would¡¯ve done it too.¡±

    Be paused, her fingers momentarily still as she contemted my statement. ¡°Mmm, would I? It¡¯s Sebastian Thornton we¡¯re talking about,¡± she mused, her eyes dancing mischievously. She let out augh, knowing full well that my situation was far from ordinary. ¡°Gavin was at the front of the apartment,¡± she added.

    I nodded in confirmation. ¡°Yup, I saw him. pped his face too,¡± I said, a sense of satisfaction lingering from that earlier encounter.

    Be couldn¡¯t help but join in my amusement. ¡°He deserved it. Anyway, what did your parents say? Did they catch up on the news?¡±

    I nodded again. ¡°You know,¡± I began, my voice tinged with a hint of resignation, ¡°not happy.¡±

    Be sighed sympathetically. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Mia. You really got a shitty family, not counting your brother, of course.¡±

    I chuckled, appreciating her supportive words. ¡°True, but then again, you¡¯re crushing on my brother, so you¡¯re kinda biased,¡± I teased her.

    Be chortled as she continued to stir the pot of soup. ¡°That¡­ that is true.¡±

    When the soup was finally done, I grabbed two bowls, and Be filled them with theforting, steaming liquid. As we sat down to eat, she couldn¡¯t resist asking about my pregnancy.

    ¡°How¡¯s pregnancy?¡± Be inquired. ¡°Morning sickness?¡±

    I let out a small sigh of relief. ¡°To be honest,¡± I replied, ¡°it¡¯s been nice. Not talking about all the drama¡­ it¡¯s actually quite peaceful.¡±This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.

    Be and I enjoyed our chicken soup together, the warm andforting aroma filling the room as we continued chatting.

    ¡°I never thought you would be a mother so soon. But I¡¯m so happy for you,¡± Be said with a smile, her eyes reflecting her genuine happiness for me.

    I chuckled, stirring my soup thoughtfully. ¡°A baby wasn¡¯t on my wishlist anytime soon, Bells. But I guess the universe has other ns for me.¡±

    Be nodded in understanding. ¡°Are you going back to your career after pregnancy?¡± she asked, her curiosity evident.

    I contemted her question before answering. ¡°Actually, I¡¯ll be working until three weeks before my due date,¡± I informed her. It was a decision I¡¯d made recently, one that felt right. I needed to stay busy and save some extra money for the baby¡¯s arrival.

    ¡°Are you sure?¡± Be asked, concern in her eyes. ¡°What about Sebastian? His business is in Los Angeles. Isn¡¯t he going to ask you to move with him so he can be closer to, well, you and the baby?¡±

    I hadn¡¯t thought about that, and it made me realize there were many important discussions we hadn¡¯t yet had. ¡°We haven¡¯t talked about it yet,¡± I admitted, taking a sip of the delicious soup Be had made.

    Be raised a thoughtful eyebrow. ¡°You should start talking about those things with him, you know? So you both know where you stand in each other¡¯s lives.¡±

    She was absolutely right, and her words resonated with me. I needed to have those conversations with Sebastian, to ensure we were on the same page about our future together. But for now, my train of thought was interrupted by a message that popped up on my phone screen.

    The look on my face must have turned sour because Be immediately asked, ¡°It¡¯s your family, huh?¡± I nodded in response, my eyes still fixed on the message from my mother.

    ¡°It says, ¡®Visit home soon,''¡± I reluctantly shared with Be. The idea of returning to that toxic environment didn¡¯t sit well with me. I had to think about my unborn child¡¯s well-being, too.

    Be chuckled, herughter devoid of any humor. ¡°Ain¡¯t no way you¡¯re going there. Your father is going to push you down the stairs, trust me.¡±

    The mere thought sent a shiver down my spine. My father had been capable of unimaginable cruelty, and although I doubted he¡¯d go to such extremes, I couldn¡¯t put anything past him. ¡°I don¡¯t think he will,¡± I said, though my voicecked conviction.

    Be rolled her eyes, clearly unimpressed with my hesitation. ¡°Come on, Mia, if he can treat his own daughter like dirt, he won¡¯t hesitate to treat your child like it too. Especially since in their eyes, you¡¯re now a disgrace.¡±

    She was right, and deep down, I knew it. I finally mustered the courage to respond to my mother¡¯s message, typing a single word that conveyed my decision: ¡°No.¡±

    As I hit send, I couldn¡¯t help but feel a mix of relief and guilt. Relief for not subjecting myself and my unborn child to the toxicity of my family¡¯s home, and guilt for distancing myself from them when they were still my parents.

    Be ced a reassuring hand on my shoulder. ¡°You did the right thing,¡± she said softly. ¡°Your well-being and your baby¡¯se first.¡±

    I smiled weakly, grateful for Be¡¯s support. ¡°Thanks, Bells. I just hope they understand.¡±

    Be shrugged, her expression pragmatic. ¡°If they don¡¯t, it¡¯s their problem, not yours. You¡¯re building a new life now, Mia, and it¡¯s time to leave the past behind.¡±

 19

    New York, Mia

    I woke up early in the morning, the day of my ultrasound appointment. Sebastian had called the night before, and I¡¯d informed him about today¡¯s schedule. He had graciously offered to pick me up, and now it was time to get ready. I wiped the sleep from my eyes and made my way to the bathroom. A quick shower and my skincare router, I slipped into a light pink floral dress.

    Be had already left for work, leaving the apartment quiet and empty. I strolled into the kitchen, intending to prepare a quick bowl of cereal when my phone buzzed. Sebastian¡¯s text let me know he was already waiting outside. I hurriedly packed my bag for the appointment and headed out.

    Stepping into the car, I greeted Sebastian with a warm ¡°Good morning.¡±

    ¡°Good morning,¡± he replied, offering a friendly smile. ¡°Nervous?¡± he inquired as he started the car.

    ¡°Not really,¡± I responded, my confidence bolstered by the YouTube videos I had watched. The ultrasound procedure didn¡¯t seem too daunting based on what I¡¯d seen.

    We drove to the hospital inpanionable silence, and upon arrival, we stepped out of the car. Sebastian extended his hand to me, and we walked into the medical facility together.

    ¡°Good morning,¡± greeted the nurse at the reception desk.

    ¡°Thornton,¡± Sebastian promptly stated.

    I quickly corrected him, ¡°Anderson. Mia Anderson, I have an ultrasound appointment today.¡±

    The nurse nodded and checked her records. ¡°Yes, Miss Anderson. You can follow me.¡±

    We followed her down a hallway to a room, where she motioned for me to lie down on the white, sterile bed. She smiled kindly. ¡°Today, we¡¯ll find out how baby Anderson is doing.¡±

    ¡°Thornton,¡± Sebastian grumbled again, causing me to chuckle. His determination to have his name associated with this appointment was so funny.

    The nurse began the ultrasound, her calm and soothing demeanor putting me at ease. As she moved the wand over my abdomen, she exined each step of the procedure and pointed out the baby¡¯s features on the monitor.

    ¡°The baby is doing well,¡± she said reassuringly. ¡°Growing, happy, and healthy.¡±

    I couldn¡¯t help but smile at her words. Knowing that my baby was thriving inside me was the best news I could ask for.

    The nurse continued her exnation, pointing out the baby¡¯s heartbeat, tiny fingers, and toes. She measured its size and exined how everything was progressing as it should be. Each detail she shared filled me with a sense of wonder and joy.

    After the ultrasound wasplete, we scheduled our next appointment and headed out of the hospital. My stomach growled loudly, reminding me of the hunger that had been building since breakfast.

    ¡°I¡¯m hungry,¡± I admitted, my craving for food growing stronger by the minute.

    Sebastian suggested McDonald¡¯s, but I shook my head. ¡°No fast food.¡±

    ¡°Sd, then?¡± he offered.

    ¡°I¡¯m not on a diet,¡± I chuckled.

    He seemed a bit exasperated, but he persisted. ¡°What do you want, Mia?¡±

    I let out a sigh, feeling indecisive. ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡±

    Sebastian pondered for a moment before suggesting, ¡°Croissant? A chocte croissant, perhaps?¡±

    My face lit up. ¡°Oui.¡±

    Heughed at my enthusiasm and drove us to the nearest pastry shop. Upon returning, he handed me a delicious-looking croissant and a box of colorful macarons. I couldn¡¯t resist, and I devoured them hungrily.

    As I savored thest bite, Sebastian cleared his throat, and I noticed a serious expression on his face.

    ¡°I need to tell you something,¡± he began, his tone somber.

    I sat up straight and looked at him with concern. ¡°What is it?¡±

    ¡°My parents want to meet you,¡± he stated.N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner.

    Sebastian¡¯s revtion left me stunned, my mind racing with thoughts and questions. I stammered out, ¡°Like for real?¡±

    He nodded, his expression serious. ¡°Yes, they want to see, um, the mother of their grandchild.¡±

    I let out a sigh, trying to process this unexpected turn of events. ¡°I guess it¡¯s possible. When?¡±

    Sebastian suggested, ¡°Maybe over the weekend? I can fly you out on Friday, and you can return on Sunday.¡±

    I considered the proposal. Sebastian¡¯s parents lived in Los Angeles, and a weekend trip would allow me to meet them without disrupting my work schedule too much. ¡°That should be fine,¡± I replied.

    I couldn¡¯t help but wonder if Sebastian¡¯s parents had certain expectations or concerns about our situation. ¡°Do they expect something from me?¡± I asked cautiously.

    Sebastian sighed, acknowledging the elephant in the room. ¡°I told you they¡¯re religious, so they will probably try to convince you to marry me. They¡¯ve seen the news and the gossip. They know we¡¯re basicallyplete strangers.¡±

    I leaned back into the car seat, feeling the weight of the situation sink in. The prospect of discussing marriage with people I¡¯d never met before was intimidating, to say the least. ¡°I mean, if you don¡¯t want to, you don¡¯t have toe. I¡¯ll just make up some excuse,¡± Sebastian offered.

    I shook my head, determination taking hold. It was time to confront my problems and face the reality of the situation. ¡°No, I¡¯lle. It¡¯s time to just face the reality of it all.¡±

    As Sebastian dropped me off at my apartment, my eyesnded on a car parked in the driveway. I stared at it for a moment, trying to ce why it looked so familiar. Then it hit me.

    ¡°That¡¯s my parent¡¯s car,¡± I said in disbelief, a sense of unease settling over me.

 20

    New York, Sebastian

    I could see the fear in Mia¡¯s eyes, and her nod confirmed that the situation was indeed grave. ¡°Is it that bad?¡± I asked, looking at her with concern.

    Mia whispered, ¡°It is.¡± Her trembling hand in mine only intensified my determination to protect her. The people who were supposed to provide her with safety and support were causing her such distress, and it enraged me.

    I squeezed her hand reassuringly and said, ¡°I will be right behind you.¡± Mia took a deep breath and opened the car door. I stepped out after her, keeping close to her side. As long as I was with her, she wouldn¡¯t have to face this alone.

    We were greeted with a chilling voice as we approached. ¡°If it isn¡¯t the whore,¡± a man sneered. He stood next to a woman who appeared equally terrified. My eyes fell on Mia¡¯s father and mother, and I couldn¡¯t help but wonder how a daughter could be treated so poorly by her own parents.

    Mia¡¯s father was a tall, imposing man with a cold, unyielding demeanor. His face was etched with lines of anger, and his eyes held a cruel glint. He looked every bit as heartless as Mia had described.

    Mia¡¯s mother, on the other hand, appeared smaller and frail. She wore an expression of deep sadness and regret, her eyes cast downward as if she couldn¡¯t bear to witness the confrontation. She seemed like a woman who had been worn down by years of abuse.

    ¡°What are you doing here?¡± Mia demanded, her voice strong and unwavering, loud enough for everyone to hear.

    Her father let out a chillingugh and pped his hands mockingly. ¡°I want to see for myself what the disgrace of my daughter is up to. So you and him are together, huh? You divorced Gavin because you want money. More money. A gold-digger, is that what you are? Like mother, like daughter,¡± he sneered, his words dripping with venom.

    I felt my blood boil, and my grip on Mia¡¯s hand tightened involuntarily. This man was her own father, and the way he spoke to her was beyond disrespectful. Every ounce of self-control was required to keep from reacting impulsively.

    Mia¡¯s voice wavered with anger and frustration. ¡°I didn¡¯t divorce Gavin to be with someone else! Gavin cheated on me!¡±

    But her father remained indifferent. ¡°That¡¯s marriage! It happens. You need to forgive and forget,¡± he callously replied, brushing off her pain as if it meant nothing.

    Mia¡¯s eyes were red with fury as she retorted, ¡°I¡¯m not Mom. I don¡¯t forgive and forget.¡±

    ¡°Is that why you divorced him? Because he cheated? That is such ame excuse!¡± her father snapped. ¡°Just say that you want someone richer and that you baby-trapped him.¡±

    His words were heartless, and I couldn¡¯t stand it any longer. I lunged forward and grabbed his hand before he could strike Mia. My anger surged, but I knew I needed to keep myposure. I met his gaze with a deadly re, silently warning him to back off.

    ¡°Don¡¯t touch the mother of my child!¡± I spit out.

    Mia¡¯s father stared at me with seething anger, his words dripping with venom. ¡°You don¡¯t know what you¡¯re getting yourself into, boy!¡± he sneered, his voice filled with contempt. ¡°She¡¯s a whore. A golddigger.¡±N?velDrama.Org exclusive content.

    At that moment, the world seemed to narrow down to a single burning point of rage. No one spoke about Mia like that, especially not her own father. My vision blurred with red anger as I moved forward, seizing her father by the throat. I couldn¡¯t tolerate his disrespect any longer.

    Her father gasped and choked as my grip tightened. There was a cacophony of shouting in the background, and amidst it all, I could hear Mia and her mother¡¯s voices, pleading with me to release him. But I didn¡¯t want to let go. This man needed to learn a lesson, and I was determined to teach it to him.

    Strong hands wrapped around me and pulled me away. It was Kieran, the voice of reason and restraint. ¡°Let him go, Sebastian,¡± Kieran urged calmly. Slowly, reluctantly, I released my grip on Mia¡¯s father.

    Mia¡¯s mother rushed to her husband¡¯s side, and her father regained hisposure, a twisted smirk on his face. ¡°You!¡± he pointed at me, his voice filled with a newfound bitterness. ¡°You will regret this!¡± he screamed, his anger unabated. ¡°You will regret this!¡±

    He continued to berate Mia, threatening her and using her of tarnishing their family name. It was a relentless barrage of insults, and I watched Mia sob uncontrobly. I couldn¡¯t stand to see her in such pain.

    I moved closer to Mia, enfolding her in a protective embrace. She buried her face in my chest, seeking sce from the emotional storm that had just erupted. My anger still smoldered, but I needed to focus onforting her.

    As her father and mother finally made their way to their car, he yelled onest time, ¡°Don¡¯t think, Mia, that this is over. You tarnished our name, you dragged our name through mud. You will be punished!¡±

    Mia gradually stopped sobbing, her tears drying up as she clung to me forfort. When she finally pulled away, her eyes were red and swollen, but the storm of emotions that had overwhelmed her had somewhat subsided.

    She turned to her brother, Kieran, her voice shaky. ¡°How did you know that he was here?¡± she asked, her curiosity mingled with relief.

    Kieran replied, ¡°Mom sent me a text message.¡± He embraced his sister, offering her sce and understanding. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry. How was the ultrasound?¡±

    Mia took a deep breath and managed a faint smile. ¡°Everything was good.¡±

    ¡°Really?¡± Kieran asked, his concern evident. Mia nodded in confirmation.

    ¡°Go inside and have some tea,¡± Kieran suggested, urging his sister to find somefort indoors.

    Mia followed her brother¡¯s advice, leaving Kieran and me alone for a moment. He turned to me with a grateful expression, acknowledging the role I¡¯d yed in supporting Mia during this difficult encounter.

    ¡°So I guess you already know a little about our messed-up family,¡± he remarked, while I was still trying to process the disturbing scene that had unfolded.

    Kieran sighed deeply. ¡°It was worse,¡± he admitted, hinting at the depths of their family¡¯s dysfunction. ¡°I¡¯m so d you were here. I don¡¯t even want to think about what would¡¯ve happened.¡±

    I shared his sentiment, feeling relieved that I¡¯d been there to protect Mia from her father¡¯s verbal abuse. ¡°She¡¯s safe with me,¡± I assured him.

    Kieran nodded and nced at his watch. ¡°I need to go now. Thank you for taking care of my sister.¡±

    I nodded in acknowledgment, appreciating Kieran¡¯s understanding and the unspoken trust he¡¯d ced in me to look after Mia. He quickly made his way to his car and drove off, leaving me alone with my thoughts.

    Just then, my phone buzzed again. I swiped the message, and the contents made me groan in frustration.

    It was a picture on one of the biggest gossip sites. The picture was of me choking Mia¡¯s dad.

 21

    New York, Mia

    I sat on the sofa, my emotions still in turmoil, while Be gently caressed my back in aforting gesture. Her words offered a glimmer of sce. ¡°It¡¯s going to be okay,¡± she reassured me.

    With a heavy sigh, I replied, ¡°It¡¯s not. It¡¯s all over the news. Since the day I met Sebastian, my whole life has been turned upside down. Always in the gossip papers, always under scrutiny.¡±

    Be nced at her phone, her fingers deftly swiping across the screen. ¡°It¡¯s taken care of,¡± she informed me. ¡°I don¡¯t see it anymore. Sebastian must have handled it.¡±

    I took a deep breath and looked at my phone, which had be a constant source of messages from concerned family members and friends-my mom, Sophia, and Sebastian among them. Each offered their support, but at that moment, what I needed most was space.

    My phone rang, disying Sebastian¡¯s name on the screen. I showed it to Be, who encouraged me to answer. With a shaky hand, I swiped the screen to ept the call.

    ¡°Hey¡­ are you alright?¡± Sebastian¡¯s voice came through the line, filled with genuine concern.

    I hesitated for a moment, then replied, ¡°Yes, I¡¯m doing better.¡±

    Sebastian¡¯s voice held a mix of relief and worry as he said, ¡°I took care of the media.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve seen,¡± I responded, grateful that he had been proactive in managing the situation.

    His next words sent a shiver down my spine. ¡°My parents are not very happy about the situation.¡±

    I understood their concerns. No family would be thrilled with such a sudden turn of events. ¡°I understand if they don¡¯t want to see me anymore,¡± I admitted.

    There was a short, heavy silence on the line, and then Sebastian¡¯s voice returned, filled with a weight I couldn¡¯t ignore. ¡°No, that¡¯s not it. In fact, they want to see you now even more. And they are literally forcing me to marry you.¡±

    I couldn¡¯t help but groan in frustration. One family problem seemed to blend into another. ¡°I cannot believe this,¡± I sighed, my hand massaging my temple as if it could soothe the stress.

    Sebastian¡¯s voice was apologetic as he suggested, ¡°Maybe if we already exined everything to them, they will change their minds.¡±

    I hoped so too. ¡°When are we visiting?¡± I inquired.

    ¡°I¡¯m on my way back to LA now, but I¡¯ll send the jet Friday to pick you up. Is that okay?¡± he asked.

    ¡°Yes,¡± I answered, knowing that this conversation had given me little choice in the matter.

    ¡°Good, take care. I¡¯ve put extra security at your apartment,¡± Sebastian informed me.

    His words caught me off guard. ¡°You did what? Security?¡± I questioned in surprise.

    ¡°Yes, you can trust those bulky men outside,¡± he reassured me.

    I hurriedly ran outside to confirm his statement, and sure enough, there were unfamiliar security personnel stationed around the building. ¡°You didn¡¯t have to do this,¡± I told him.

    Sebastian¡¯s voice crackled through the phone as he spoke with concern in his tone, ¡°I want to fall asleep tonight knowing that my baby and baby¡¯s mother are safe.¡±

    ¡°Thank you,¡± I replied, touched by his words. ¡°Good, stay safe.¡± With that, Sebastian ended the call, leaving me with a sense of warmth and reassurance.

    I turned to Be, who had been listening in on our conversation. Her eyes sparkled with amusement as shemented, ¡°Waw, he really is in dad mode.¡±

    As we settled back into our cozy living room, there was a sudden knock on the door. I nced at my phone, and a message from Kieran popped up, saying he was outside with food. Be, always quick to take action, headed to the door.

    ¡°I hope you didn¡¯te empty-handed,¡± Be said as she opened the door to reveal Kieran standing there with a warm smile.

    ¡°I brought Chicken Alfredo Pasta,¡± Kieran announced, holding up a container of delicious-smelling food. The aroma wafted through the doorway, making our mouths water in anticipation. ¡°Who are those people outside?¡±

    ¡°Guards. Sebastian assigned guards.¡± Be said as she opened the container with food.

    We took our tes and settled in the cozy living room, devouring the delicious Chicken Alfredo Pasta that Kieran had brought over. The creamy sauce and tender chicken melted in our mouths, eliciting satisfied groans of pleasure.

    Between bites, Kieran couldn¡¯t help but steer the conversation towards a topic that had been on his mind. ¡°What does Sebastian¡¯s family think about the whole situation?¡± he asked, his curiosity evident.

    I paused, contemting how to exin theplex dynamics of my rtionship with Sebastian to Kieran. ¡°They want us to get married,¡± I admitted, unsure of how he would react.

    Kieran raised his eyebrows, clearly surprised by my response. ¡°Oh really? That is good, right?¡± he inquired, looking for reassurance in his question.

    I sighed, trying to find the right words. ¡°No, it¡¯s not,¡± I replied with a hint of frustration. How could my brother think it was a good idea for me to marry someone I barely knew? ¡°I don¡¯t even know him, Sebastian is a stranger to me,¡± I added, my unease evident.N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner.

    Kieran leaned back, contemting my words. ¡°You two have a baby on the way,¡± he pointed out gently. ¡°I don¡¯t think he qualifies as a stranger anymore. We can call him a ¡®friend with benefits,''¡± he teased, a mischievous glint in his eye.

    I couldn¡¯t help but chuckle at Kieran¡¯s attempt to lighten the mood, and I yfully threw a napkin at him. ¡°That¡¯s not what I meant, Kieran,¡± I said, shaking my head. ¡°It¡¯s just¡­ the idea of marriage right now, it feels rushed.¡±

    Be, who had been listening to our conversation, chimed in, grabbing the remote control and turning on the television. She zapped through the channels until a familiar face appeared on the screen. My heart began to beat loudly, and my hands grew sweaty.

    On America¡¯s biggest TV show, there was Gavin, the man I had known before Sebastian entered my life. The man who had once held a significant ce in my heart. His handsome face filled the screen as he spoke confidently to the host.

    I couldn¡¯t help but tense up, my eyes locked on the television, watching his every move. Be and Kieran exchanged knowing nces, sensing my inner turmoil.

    Gavin¡¯s voice filled the room as he said, ¡°Mia Anderson and I are not together anymore, because she is pregnant of Sebastian Thornton. She ruined our marriage for a one night stand.¡±

    Oh fuck!

 22

    Los Angeles, Sebastian

    Frustration and anger boiled within me as I watched the television screen, my emotions reaching a breaking point. I couldn¡¯t believe what I was witnessing. ¡°What the hell is wrong with this guy!¡± I yelled, unable to contain my irritation any longer. With a swift and furious motion, I threw the remote control at the TV, the impact causing a loud crack and shattering the screen.

    My phone, which had been constantly ringing throughout the evening, now buzzed incessantly. I grabbed it from the coffee table and saw that it was my father calling. Of course, it was him.N?velDrama.Org exclusive content.

    I rolled my eyes in frustration before swiping my finger across the screen to answer the call. I knew exactly what wasing  another lecture, another tirade about the never-ending scandals that seemed to follow me like a dark cloud.

    ¡°Scandals after scandals!¡± my father bellowed in an angry tone as soon as I picked up. ¡°What do you have to say about this, Sebastian?!¡±

    I rubbed my temples, feeling the tension building within me. ¡°I don¡¯t know, Dad,¡± I admitted wearily, ¡°but what I do know is that he¡¯s only talking bullshit. I¡¯ll tell my PR team to get rid of it.¡± At this point, my PR team deserved a 100% raise and a long vacation after dealing with the constant chaos that seemed to surround me.

    ¡°Your mother and I can¡¯t even go to church anymore!¡± my dad continued, his annoyance palpable. ¡°The pastor called us a bunch of sinners.¡± His words stung, and I couldn¡¯t help but feel a pang of guilt.

    ¡°Not only are you creating problems for yourself by not marrying the girl as soon as possible,¡± he scolded, ¡°but you¡¯re also ruining our lives!¡±

    I took a deep breath, trying to keep myposure despite the mounting pressure. It was infuriating to hear my parents being judged by the very person who should be offering them sce and guidance. The pastor had his own vices, frequently visiting strip clubs, yet he had the audacity to call my parents sinners.

    ¡°I¡¯ll take care of it, Dad,¡± I assured him, my tone more controlled now. ¡°You better hurry up, Sebastian,¡± he warned, his voiceced with exasperation. ¡°I am tired of all these scandals and drama.¡±

    With that, he ended the call, leaving me to simmer in my own frustration and guilt. I threw my phone onto the couch and buried my face in my hands, overwhelmed by the relentless challenges that seemed to surround me.

    I sighed heavily as I messaged the head of PR, urging them to take immediate action to address thetest scandal that had erupted. The situation had spiraled out of control, and it was time to contain the damage and regain control of the narrative.

    After sending the message, I knew that my PR team would work diligently to solve the issue, employing their expertise to minimize the fallout. It was the least I could do to protect not only my own reputation but also to spare Mia from the relentless scrutiny that had gued our lives.

    With that task set in motion, I dialed Mia¡¯s number, fully aware that she must be a wreck by now. Her trembling voice confirmed my suspicions as she answered, ¡°Hey.¡±

    ¡°You have seen it,¡± I stated, acknowledging the distressing situation we found ourselves in.

    Mia let out a shaky sigh, and I could hear the tears in her voice. ¡°Yes,¡± she sniffed, her exhaustion and frustration evident. ¡°Just when I thought it couldn¡¯t get any worse after my parents¡¯ drama, I had to add this one to the list.¡±

    I felt a pang of guilt knowing that Mia was bearing the brunt of the consequences of our rtionship, which had been thrust into the public eye. I knew I had to do something to make things better for her, to ensure she could at least enjoy her pregnancy without constant stress.

    ¡°I told my PR team to handle it, so don¡¯t worry about that,¡± I reassured her, hoping to provide some relief.

    Mia¡¯s voice softened with gratitude. ¡°Thank you, Sebastian,¡± she said sincerely.

    ¡°Hey, how about when I fly you out on Friday, I show you around first before heading to my parents¡¯?¡± I suggested, hoping to bring a spark of excitement into her life.

    ¡°That would be nice,¡± Mia replied, her voice brightening slightly at the prospect of a change of scenery.

    ¡°Great, pack some extra clothes,¡± I advised, wanting her to be prepared for a few days away from the chaos.

    ¡°I will,¡± she promised, her tone filled with anticipation.

    There was a short silence between us before Mia spoke again, her exhaustion evident. ¡°I¡¯ll head to bed,¡± she said. ¡°Today was a long day.¡±

    ¡°Goodnight,¡± I said softly, my heart heavy with the knowledge that Mia had been through so much.

    ¡°Goodnight,¡± she replied, her voice carrying a hint of weariness and vulnerability.

    As I ended the call, I couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of responsibility and determination to make things right. The challenges and scandals that surrounded us were far from over, but I was determined to protect Mia, to give her the support and stability she deserved during her pregnancy.

    Feeling a mixture of frustration and exhaustion, I left the living room and headed to the kitchen, seeking sce in the simple act of making food. The events of the day had taken a toll on me, and I needed a moment of respite.

    In the kitchen, I decided on a quick and easy option, making a sandwich with smi and cheese. As I assembled the ingredients, my mind wandered to the numerous unanswered emails and meetings that awaited me. During my recent trip to New York, I had instructed my personal assistant to reschedule all my meetings, and now I found myself faced with three meetings scheduled for tomorrow. The exhaustion threatened to engulf me as I contemted the busy day ahead.

    I settled at the kitchen ind with my sandwich in hand, taking bites while scrolling through my emails on my phone. The list of messages seemed endless, and I couldn¡¯t help but sigh at the mounting workload. I knew I had to tackle it all, but the weight of responsibility felt particrly heavy tonight.

    With my meal finished and my emails reviewed, I made a mental note to prioritize my rest. I needed to be well-prepared for the busy day ahead, and that meant getting a good night¡¯s sleep.

    I headed towards my room, my steps deliberate and purposeful. Plugging my phone into the charger, I decided to take a quick shower to clear my mind and prepare for bed. The warm water cascaded over me, washing away some of the tension and fatigue that had umted throughout the day.

    After my shower, I emerged from the bathroom feeling refreshed and determined to get a good night¡¯s sleep. I knew that an early start was essential to tackle the uing meetings and responsibilities.

    I settled into bed, the soft sheets and pillows providing aforting embrace. My eyelids began to droop as I drifted into a state of rxation. Just as I was about to surrender to the embrace of sleep, my phone screen began to sh, interrupting the tranquility of the room.

    Frowning, I reached for my phone, curious about the unexpected message. It was from an unknown number, and a chill ran down my spine as I opened it, not knowing what to expect.

    The message was chilling in its simplicity and menace: ¡°Get rid of that baby or suffer the consequences.¡±

 23

    New York, Mia

    Back at work, I found myself seated in my office with a stunning view of Times Square through therge window. The bustling energy of the city outside was a stark contrast to the focused andposed atmosphere of my workspace. Today was an important day, with two new clients scheduled, but it was the thought of seeing my regr client, Sophia, that added a touch of excitement to the day.

    As I delved into my work, the pleasant aroma of Bare Vani perfume wafted through the air, instantly recognizable. I couldn¡¯t help but smile, knowing exactly who it was. I turned around to find a radiant Sophia standing at the doorway, her eyes sparkling with joy. Her honeymoon had evidently been a delightful experience.

    ¡°Miaaaa,¡± she squealed with enthusiasm as she rushed toward me and enveloped me in a warm hug. ¡°Ughh, I¡¯ve missed you so much.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve missed you too,¡± I replied, returning her embrace. Sophia had always been one of my favorite clients, not just for her vibrant personality but also for the genuine connection we shared.

    She pulled away slightly, her eyes filled with curiosity and excitement. ¡°I¡¯ve heard about it all while I was on my honeymoon,¡± she said, her eagerness evident. ¡°Finish up, and then we will talk.¡±

    I nodded at her, understanding the need to tend to my current client¡¯s needs before diving into a personal conversation. As Sophia settled into her favorite spot on the sofa in the corner of my office, I returned to assist my second client.

    Twenty minutester, I concluded the session with my second client and called Sophia back into my office. She entered with a smile that could light up a room, clearly eager to catch up.

    ¡°Let¡¯s start with you being pregnant with my brother-inw,¡± Sophia began, her eyes dancing with excitement as she spoke. ¡°We will be sisters!¡±

    I couldn¡¯t help butugh at her enthusiasm and shook my head in response. ¡°Yeah, I don¡¯t think so,¡± I teased yfully.

    Sophia raised an eyebrow, her expression curious. ¡°What do you mean?¡± she inquired, her curiosity piqued.

    I took a deep breath, realizing it was time to fill Sophia in about everything that had transpired in her absence. With a heavy heart, I began recounting the challenges, scandals, and uncertainties that had unfolded since her departure.

    As I spoke, Sophia¡¯s face transformed from one of excitement to one of concern and empathy. She listened attentively, absorbing every detail of the trials and tribtions that had be an integral part of my life.Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.

    When I finished sharing my story, Sophia stood up and rushed toward me, wrapping me in a heartfelt hug. Her embrace conveyed a deep sense of support and understanding that I desperately needed.

    ¡°You¡¯re so strong,¡± she whispered in my ear, her voice filled with admiration and affection. ¡°I can¡¯t believe you¡¯ve been through all this, and you¡¯re still standing strong.¡±

    I blinked back tears, touched by Sophia¡¯s words.

    ¡°Thanks, Soph, things have been a roller coaster around here,¡± I admitted with a sigh, acknowledging the tumultuous journey I had been ontely.

    Sophia reached into her bag and pulled out something that instantly caught my attention  donuts, my absolute favorite snacks. My mouth watered just looking at them.

    ¡°For you, mama,¡± Sophia said, handing me the delectable treats.

    ¡°They look so delicious,¡± I eximed, my excitement evident. Freshly baked donuts had a way of making any day better.

    ¡°Freshly baked by yours truly,¡± Sophia replied with a proud smile.

    I couldn¡¯t help but feel touched by her gesture. Sophia was not only my favorite client but also a talented baker with her own bakery shop in New York. Her donuts and pancakes were legendary, and I could easily devour a whole box of her delicious creations.

    As I reached out to take one of the donuts, my gratitude poured out. ¡°Thank you,¡± I said sincerely, appreciating thefort of familiar and beloved treats in the midst of chaos.

    Sophia and I chatted as we indulged in the mouthwatering donuts, temporarily setting aside the weight of the world. Her presence brought a sense of normalcy to my otherwise turbulent life, and I cherished every moment we spent together.

    Just as we were engrossed in our conversation and the delightful donuts, a soft knock on the door interrupted our moment of respite.

    ¡°Come in,¡± I called, curious about the unexpected visitor.

    The door opened, revealing the front deskdy holding a bouquet of pristine white roses. I frowned, wondering who could have sent me such an elegant and unexpected gift.

    ¡°This is for you, Miss Anderson,¡± the front deskdy announced as she ced the bouquet on my table.

    Sophia raised an eyebrow in amusement, her curiosity piqued. ¡°Mmmh, secret admirer? Or Sebastian?¡± she spected, her yful toneced with humor.

    I examined the bouquet, puzzled by the choice of white roses. ¡°Kind of weird, right?¡± I mused, ¡°Don¡¯t you give those to someone who¡¯s¡­well, dead?¡±

    Sophia chuckled at my observation. ¡°There you say something,¡± she agreed, her interest growing. ¡°What¡¯s written on the card?¡±

    I reached for the envelope that sat atop the bouquet, torn between curiosity and trepidation. With Sophia¡¯s encouragement, I carefully opened the envelope and retrieved the card.

    As I read the words on the card, both our eyes widened in shock, and I could feel goosebumps tingling over my entire body. The message on the card sent a shiver down my spine, and I felt an unsettling sense of dread wash over me.

    Get rid of that baby or die with it x

 24

    New York, Mia

    The room felt colder than usual, as if an icy hand had reached in and clenched around our hearts. Sophia¡¯s face, usually radiant, was now pale as chalk. She stood there, holding the bouquet of flowers that had arrived, a sense of dread in her eyes.

    ¡°What the hell?!¡± Sophia muttered, her voice trembling, as she grabbed the flowers and tossed them into the bin. Her trembling hand then reached for the apanying card, and she quickly snapped a picture of it with her phone.

    I couldn¡¯t help but feel a chill go down my spine as I watched her actions. ¡°What are you doing?¡± I managed to stammer, my voice equally shaky, my heart pounding like a drum.

    ¡°I¡¯ll send it to Patrick,¡± Sophia replied, her voice still quivering. ¡°He has a private investigator. And he can find out who the handwriting belongs to.¡±

    I nced at the card, which seemed like any ordinary piece of writing. ¡°The handwriting looks like any ordinary handwriting,¡± I said, trying to downy my unease. But deep down, I knew this situation was far from ordinary.

    My life had spiraled into a chaotic whirlwindtely, and fear had be a constantpanion. There were so many dramas, problems, and mysteries unfolding around me that I could barely keep track of them all. I longed for the days when life was simple and predictable, when I didn¡¯t have to worry about anonymous cards and their ominous messages.

    ¡°He can also scan it for fingerprints,¡± Sophia added, her voice tinged with concern. But when she saw how awfully white I looked, she abandoned her investigative thoughts and moved closer, wrapping her arms around me in aforting embrace.

    ¡°Hey, everything will be alright, I promise,¡± she whispered, her words a soothing balm for my frazzled nerves. ¡°This is just a rough patch, and we¡¯ll get through it together.¡±

    Tears welled up in my eyes, and I could no longer contain the flood of emotions that had been building inside me. I began crying, my sobs escaping me uncontrobly. Sophia didn¡¯t try to hush me or offer words of reassurance. She simply held me, her presence a lifeline in the storm of uncertainty that had engulfed us.

    As I wept, I couldn¡¯t help but reflect on my current situation. Everyone around me had always said that pregnancy was a blessing, a joyful time filled with hope and anticipation. But for me, it had be a nightmare, a curse that seemed to bring nothing but fear, confusion, and despair.

    I thought about the struggles I had been facing, the mysterious messages, and the uncertainty of who was behind them. The weight of it all had be unbearable, and I found myself doubting whether I could continue down this path.

    Sophia continued to hold me, her presence a source of strength and sce.

    Amid the tumultuous sea of emotions that had engulfed me, my phone suddenly rang, jolting me from my despair. With trembling hands, I wiped away the tears that had blurred my vision and fumbled to answer the call. Through the haziness, I saw that it was Sebastian calling.

    ¡°You got a note too?¡± he asked urgently as I picked up the call. His voice was filled with concern and an edge of fear.

    I sniffled and nodded, even though he couldn¡¯t see me. ¡°Yes,¡± I sobbed, my voice quivering with a mix of relief and anxiety. It was both reassuring and disconcerting to know that I wasn¡¯t the only one facing this bizarre situation.

    ¡°What do you mean? Did you get one too?¡± I inquired, my curiosity overpowering my distress. I needed to understand the extent of this unfolding mystery.

    Sebastian sighed on the other end of the line, his frustration palpable even through the phone. ¡°Yes,¡± he admitted. ¡°I know you got one because Patrick forwarded Sophia¡¯s message to me. Are you with Sophia right now?¡±

    My heart pounded as I confirmed my current location. ¡°Yes, I am,¡± I replied, ncing at Sophia, who was sitting nearby, her eyes filled with worry.

    ¡°Good,¡± Sebastian said, his voice resolute. ¡°Stay with Sophia until I can get someone to pick you up. You¡¯ve got to be super careful. There¡¯s someone out there who¡¯d rather see you dead than alive.¡±

    The chill returned, gnawing at the edges of my consciousness. The realization that I had a stalker, someone with malicious intent lurking in the shadows, was petrifying. I shuddered at the thought of an unknown presence observing my every move, sending cryptic messages that left me feeling exposed and vulnerable.

    ¡°Who are you going to send to pick me up?¡± I asked, my voice quivering with trepidation. I contemted whether it was safer to rely on Sophia or Sebastian¡¯s arrangements.

    Sebastian hesitated for a moment, his concern evident. ¡°Will she be able to?¡± he finally inquired.

    I turned to Sophia and met her determined gaze. She nodded her head, her eyes conveying both her readiness to help and her concern for my safety. ¡°Yes, she will,¡± I assured him, trusting in Sophia¡¯s determination and the bond we shared.

    ¡°Well, that¡¯s good,¡± Sebastian said, a hint of relief in his voice. ¡°Be careful, okay?¡±

    I nodded, though he couldn¡¯t see me. ¡°I will,¡± I replied, the weight of the situation settling heavily on my shoulders. As I ended the call, I couldn¡¯t help but wonder about the identity of the mysterious person behind the notes, the one who had turned my life into a nightmarish puzzle.

    Sophia¡¯s question hung in the air, heavy with uncertainty. ¡°Do you have any idea who it is?¡± she asked, her eyes searching mine for a hint of recognition, a clue that might shed light on the mystery.

    I shook my head, a deep sense of frustration gnawing at me. There were too many potential adversaries in our lives, too many individuals who might harbor ill will towards both Sebastian and me. First, there was Gavin, whose vendetta against us had be painfully apparent. Then, there were theplex dynamics within our families, each fraught with their own tensions and secrets. At this point, it felt like the list of possible suspects had grown so long that it could include anyone, even aplete stranger with a grudge.

    ¡°I have no idea,¡± I admitted, my voice filled with helplessness. I could feel the weight of fear pressing down on my shoulders, making every step of this journey through uncertainty an arduous one.

    Sophia offered a reassuring smile, her unwavering support aforting presence in the midst of chaos. ¡°Don¡¯t worry,¡± she said, her voice soothing. ¡°Patrick will work on it, and soon you¡¯ll be safe and sound.¡±

    I took a deep, steadying breath, finding sce in the knowledge that we had someone as resourceful as Patrick on our side. At least there was a glimmer of hope on the horizon, a chance that we could unravel this enigma and put an end to the tormenting notes.

    I looked at Sophia, gratitude welling up within me. ¡°What would I do without you?¡± I smiled, a genuine warmth spreading across my face. ¡°Come, it¡¯s time to do my magic on you.¡±

    With a yful air, I led her to my back office, where I began to work my magic. The distraction of our brief session was a wee relief from the weight of my troubles, a reminder that there were moments of normalcy even in the midst of chaos.

    After I had finished with Sophia, it was time to tidy up my office and prepare to head home. Sophia waited patiently for me in the lobby, her unwavering support a constantfort. When I was finally satisfied that everything was in its ce, I closed my office door and joined her in the lobby.

    As we walked together towards the building¡¯s exit, my phone rang, causing me to furrow my eyebrows in surprise. I answered cautiously, my heart racing as I wondered who could be calling me at this moment.

    ¡°Hello,¡± I greeted, trying to conceal the unease in my voice.

    ¡°Did you see the interview, my love?¡± The voice on the other end sent a chill down my spine.

    It was none other than Gavin motherfucking Campbell.N?velDrama.Org exclusive content.

 25

    Los Angeles, Sebastian

    I couldn¡¯t believe it. Our lives had taken an unnerving turn, and now we had a stalker who not only seemed to want to disrupt our lives but also wished us harm. The realization sent shivers down my spine, and a profound sense of unease settled in the pit of my stomach. I couldn¡¯t help but fear for our safety and the safety of our unborn child.

    Patrick had forwarded me the picture of the note, and my immediate response was to call him. I was in the middle of an important meeting with an investor, but nothing could take precedence over the well-being of my baby and the mother of my child. I excused myself from the meeting, my mind racing with worry.

    ¡°Patrick, what¡¯s going on?¡± I demanded as soon as he answered the phone. I needed answers, and I needed them urgently.

    Patrick proceeded to exin the details of the situation, his voice filled with concern. I, in turn, shared the contents of my own ominous note with him. It was clear that he wanted to gather as much information as possible to get to the bottom of this disturbing mystery.

    However, Patrick insisted on seeing the notes in person. It was an understandable precaution, given the sensitivity of the situation. I instructed my courier to deliver my note to him immediately. As I hung up the phone, I felt a sense of helplessness wash over me. I was now back in my office, massaging my temples, desperately trying to stave off a looming headache.

    My calendar reminded me of an uing meeting in just fifteen minutes, and I hoped fervently that nothing urgent would disrupt it. My responsibilities as a businessman were inextricably intertwined with the responsibilities of impending fatherhood, and I couldn¡¯t afford to let either aspect falter.

    Just as I was beginning to regain myposure, my phone rang again, causing my heart to skip a beat. I grabbed it, hoping to see a message from Mia, a source offort in these troubled times. However, to my disappointment, it was my father¡¯s name that shed on the screen.

    I sighed deeply before answering. ¡°Yes, father?¡± I said, my toneced with a hint of annoyance.

    ¡°You cut the meeting short today? What happened?¡± he inquired, his voice filled with curiosity.

    I hesitated. I didn¡¯t want to burden my parents with the news of the stalker just yet. I knew they would be overly concerned and likely offer a lecture, something I wasn¡¯t looking forward to at the moment. ¡°I had other urgent matters to take care of,¡± I replied, opting for a vague response.

    ¡°Other urgent matters?¡± my father repeated, his tone taking on a mocking edge. ¡°Does that involve thedy you got pregnant, perhaps?¡±

    I clenched my jaw, resisting the urge to roll my eyes. ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter, father,¡± I retorted, trying to maintain myposure. ¡°The fact is it was important.¡±

    My father scoffed dismissively, his disapproval evident even over the phone. ¡°That girl is distracting you,¡± he remarked with a hint of disappointment. ¡°I¡¯ve known you as a ruthless businessman, and now you¡¯re like a lost puppy, always involved in drama.¡±

    I closed my eyes briefly, struggling to contain my frustration. This was not the time for a lecture on my life choices. My focus needed to be on protecting Mia and our unborn child from the lurking danger of the stalker. But exining that to my father was a conversation I wasn¡¯t prepared to have just yet.

    ¡°I have to go now, my meeting starts soon,¡± I said to my father, the frustration from our conversation still lingering in my voice.

    ¡°Well, I¡¯m waiting for you to bring that girl home as soon as possible,¡± my father responded, his tone firm and unwavering.

    ¡°Yes, father,¡± I replied, a sense of obligation weighing on me. With that, I put down the phone, eager to put the conversation behind me. There were pressing matters at hand that demanded my attention.

    Just then, my diligent assistant entered my office, her presence a reminder that my responsibilities as a businessman were far from over. She informed me that the board members were already waiting for me in the conference room. I nodded, acknowledging her message, and took a moment to adjust my tie and ruffle my hair into some semnce of order before heading to the meeting.

    The conference room felt sterile and imposing, the long table lined with stern faces. As the meeting droned on, I found it increasingly difficult to stay engaged. The discussions were tedious, and my thoughts kept drifting back to the unsettling situation with the stalker.

    Luckily, there was coffee on hand to keep me awake, and I took advantage of the caffeine to maintain my focus. The minutes dragged on, and I counted the seconds until the meeting would finallye to an end.

    When it did, and I was free from the confines of the conference room, one of the board members approached me. His expression was one of genuine concern as he addressed the situation that had recently unfolded in my personal life.

    ¡°I¡¯ve seen you the past few days on TV and online,¡± he began, his voice filled with sympathy. ¡°I hope it won¡¯t affect your career.¡±

    I appreciated his kind words and the genuine concern he disyed. I shook my head, trying to reassure him. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ve got it all handled,¡± I assured him, although the weight of the situation was far from lifted.

    He studied me for a moment before nodding. ¡°I hope so,¡± he said, clearly hoping for the best.

    With the conversation concluded, I walked out of the conference room and headed towards the car waiting to take me home. I yearned for a long, hot shower and some much-needed rest. The relentless demands of my life, both personal and professional, had taken a toll on me, and I needed a moment of respite.

    As I sat in the backseat of the car, I instructed the driver to take me home. The anticipation of rxation and thefort of my own space drew me closer to the familiarity of home.

    When I arrived at my apartment, exhaustion weighed heavily on my shoulders. I reached for my keys, intent on a swift entry, but as I approached the door, I realized something was amiss. My heart sank as I noticed that the door was unlocked.

    I frowned, a surge of unease washing over me. Hadn¡¯t I locked the door securely before I left earlier in the day? The possibility of an intruder sent a shiver down my spine. With caution, I slowly pushed the door open, my senses on high alert.

    As the door creaked open, my eyes widened in rm, and anger began to bubble within me. The scene that unfolded before me was one I had not anticipated, and it filled me with a mix of fury and dread.

    My heart raced as I stepped into my living room, and my worst fears were confirmed. The sight before me was a scene of absolute chaos. My whole living room was a mess, a nightmarish tableau of destruction. Everything seemed to be in disarray, and the room bore the scars of a violent intrusion.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.

    Furniturey in ruins, toppled over and broken into pieces. The once pristine ss coffee table was now shattered into countless shards that littered the ground like a malevolent mosaic. The air was thick with tension and the acrid smell of destruction.

    My gaze fell upon my oncefortable couch, now defiled by ck and brown stains that marred its fabric. The implications of those stains were too unsettling to ponder, and a nauseating odor permeated the room, a sickeningbination of filth and decay.

    It felt as if someone had taken their time to wreak havoc in my living space, their destructive frenzy leaving behind a chilling message. The realization that an intruder had not only vited my home but had also defiled it in such a disturbing manner sent shivers down my spine.

    What the fuck was happening?!

 26

    New York, Mia

    I sat in the car, with Sophia behind the wheel, driving me back home. The turmoil of the day and the distressing events with the stalker were still fresh in my mind. Sophia¡¯s presence provided somefort, a respite from the storm that had been brewing in my life.

    ¡°How did the conversation with your ex go?¡± she inquired, breaking the silence that had settled between us. Her concern was evident in her voice.

    I grumbled in annoyance, recalling the encounter with Gavin. ¡°I just cursed him out,¡± I admitted with a touch of frustration. ¡°He seemed to enjoy it.¡±

    Sophia didn¡¯t mince her words. ¡°He¡¯s such a loser,¡± she dered, echoing my sentiments precisely. Gavin¡¯s actions and demeanor had long since worn thin, and it was clear that he reveled in causing trouble.

    I leaned back in the car seat and massaged my temples, attempting to alleviate the persistent headache that had gued me all day. Sophia¡¯s words provided some constion, but the weight of the situation still hung heavily over me.

    As we pulled up to my apartment building, my eyes fell upon the imposing figure of the security guard stationed outside. He was the same burly security guard that Sebastian had assigned to keep an eye on me, a reassuring presence in these troubled times.Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.

    Sophia nced at him and asked, ¡°Is that the security guard Sebastian assigned to you?¡±

    I chuckled, nodding in affirmation. ¡°Yup, that¡¯s him.¡±

    ¡°Damn,¡± Sophia muttered, her concern evident. The presence of a security guard at my doorstep was a stark reminder of the very real danger that lurked in the shadows.

    Before I exited the car, I turned to Sophia. ¡°Hey, I¡¯ll take the note with me, okay? Patrick wants to analyze it for fingerprints.¡±

    She nodded understandingly. ¡°Okay, keep me updated,¡± she urged, her worry for my safety palpable.

    ¡°I will,¡± I assured her. ¡°And please, keep me updated too, okay?¡±

    With a brief hug, I parted ways with Sophia and made my way to my apartment. As I opened the door, I was greeted by the sight of Be, who had already returned home.

    ¡°Hey,¡± she greeted me, her concern evident in her eyes. ¡°How was the office?¡±

    I sighed deeply, the weight of the day¡¯s events heavy on my shoulders. ¡°It was¡­ eventful,¡± I replied, realizing that I had much to share with her about thetest developments in my life.

    After I told Be about the stalker, the disturbing letter, and Gavin¡¯s unsettling call, all she could do was shake her head in disbelief. Her response wasced with a mix of sympathy and incredulity.

    ¡°Your life turned into a real-life Turkish drama,¡± she said with a hint of exasperation.

    I chuckled wryly, despite the heaviness of the situation. ¡°I know, right? It¡¯s like me and the baby are constantly thrown into dramand.¡±

    Be, always the practical and reassuring friend, offered some fried chicken that she had prepared. I gratefully epted the te and began munching on the crispy,forting morsels. It was a smallfort in the midst of the chaos.

    ¡°Just keep on going,¡± Be encouraged me, her voice filled with determination. ¡°Everything will get better eventually.¡±

    I sighed, realizing that her words echoed the sentiments of so many others who had tried to console me during this turbulent time. ¡°That¡¯s what everyone tells me,¡± I admitted. ¡°But it¡¯s kind of hard, you know?¡±

    My once-peaceful life had been turned upside down, transformed into a whirlwind of uncertainty and fear. The weight of it all bore down on me, and I couldn¡¯t help but wonder when the storm would finally subside.

    After devouring thest of the fried chicken, I decided to retreat to the bathroom for a long, soothing shower. It was a chance to wash away the day¡¯s stress, both physical and emotional. I started with my skincare routine, taking the time to pamper myself with each step, and then stepped into the steamy embrace of the shower.

    The hot water was a balm for my tired muscles, and I let the tension wash away as I closed my eyes and simply stood under the soothing cascade. Thoughts swirled in my mind, the unresolved issues and the looming threats, but for a brief moment, I allowed myself to find sce in the simple act of showering.

    Afterward, I dried off and made my way to my bedroom, the exhaustion of the day catching up with me. I settled into thefort of my bed, hoping to find some much-needed rest. The events of the day had taken a toll on my spirit, and I yearned for the oblivion of sleep.

    As I drifted into the edges of slumber, the events of the day continued to y in my mind like a haunting reel. The ominous messages, the intrusion into my home, and Gavin¡¯s menacing call all left me feeling vulnerable and exposed.

    Just when I thought I could finally surrender to sleep¡¯s embrace, I was jerked upright by the sound of gunshots, sharp and menacing. My heart thundered in my chest as fear gripped me, the adrenaline surging through my veins. The room was bathed in darkness, and my senses were on high alert as I strained to identify the source of the rming noise.

    The seconds dragged on, and the echoes of the gunshots seemed to dissipate into the night. I reached for my phone, my hands trembling, and quickly dialed the number for the security guard stationed outside my apartment.

    ¡°Something happened,¡± I said urgently, my voice barely above a whisper. ¡°Gunshots. I heard gunshots.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s me.¡± He coughed. ¡°I got shot.¡±

 27

    New York, Mia

    The sound of gunshots had shattered the tranquility of my apartment, and fear had gripped my heart like a vice. Without a second thought, I had dialed 911, my voice trembling as I reported the horrifying incident to the operator. The words came out in a panicked rush as I exined that the security guard had been shot, his life hanging in the bnce.

    I couldn¡¯t bear the thought of going outside, not knowing if the shooter was still lurking outside. I rushed to find Be, who was already trembling with fear, her face pale. We shared a nce that spoke volumes, our mutual terror mirrored in each other¡¯s eyes.

    ¡°We can¡¯t go outside,¡± I whispered to her, voicing the unspoken concern that had paralyzed us both. What if the shooter was still out there, waiting for another opportunity to strike?

    Our hearts ached for the security guard, a man who had been entrusted with our safety and had paid the price for his dedication. The guilt gnawed at us, knowing that we were the intended targets of this menacing threat.

    Minutes felt like hours as we waited anxiously for the police to arrive. When they finally did, their presence brought some measure offort. They assured us that they would handle the situation and instructed us to apany them to the hospital. The security guard was in no condition to speak, and his life hung in the bnce.

    We drove to the hospital in thepany of the police, my heart heavy with dread. Tears streamed down my face, and Be reached out to offer me a bottle of water. She understood the depth of my fear, and her presence was a source of sce in these trying times.

    As we sat in the hospital¡¯s emergency room, the minutes ticked by like an eternity. The sterile surroundings felt cold and unweing, and the uncertainty of the situation weighed heavily on us. It was a stark reminder that our lives had been irrevocably altered by the presence of a menacing stalker.

    My phone rang, and Sebastian¡¯s name shed on the screen. Relief washed over me at the sight of his name. ¡°Thank God you called,¡± I said, my voice hupping with emotion.

    ¡°I heard,¡± Sebastian replied, his voice filled with concern. ¡°I¡¯m on my way there. Are you all right?¡±

    Tears welled up in my eyes as I struggled to convey the depth of my fear. ¡°Yes,¡± I stammered. ¡°I was already in bed and drifting to sleep when I heard gunshots.¡±This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.

    The anger in Sebastian¡¯s voice was palpable as he responded, ¡°These motherfuckers¡­ I swear, if I find out who did this to us, they¡¯ll be ten feet under.¡±

    I clung to his words, the promise of his protection providing a glimmer of hope in the darkness. ¡°Please, just hurry up and be here,¡± I implored, my voice quivering with fear.

    ¡°I will be there soon, okay,¡± he reassured me, his voice softening. ¡°Hold on.¡±

    ¡°Okay,¡± I replied, my gratitude for his unwavering support evident in my voice as I ended the call.

    Be joined me, offering a bottle of water to help calm my nerves. ¡°Drink¡­ it will help you calm down,¡± she advised gently.

    I took a sip, the cool water soothing my parched throat. Be¡¯s presence was afort, and I appreciated her more than ever in this trying moment.

    ¡°I never realized how bad the situation was until now,¡± Be whispered, her voice heavy with sorrow. ¡°I am scared for your safety, Mia,¡± she admitted.

    I nodded in understanding, tears welling up once more. ¡°Me too,¡± I whispered, my gaze fixed on the nk wall in front of us. The weight of the situation had be undeniably real, and the fear for our safety was a burden that neither of us could ignore any longer.

    I sat there in the sterile hospital waiting room, my mind a whirlwind of thoughts and emotions. The events of the night had left me with more questions than answers. Who could have been so malicious, so ruthless, as to orchestrate this terrifying ordeal? My thoughts turned to my father, a man who might despise me but would he go as far as to take my life? I doubted it. His concern for reputation and status outweighed any personal vendetta.

    Be and I sat together on the cold hospital bench, seeking sce in each other¡¯s presence. The silence between us was heavy with unspoken fears and uncertainties. We were both lost in our own thoughts, grappling with the enormity of the situation that had unfolded.

    Who would have thought that an innocent one-night stand could spiral into such a nightmarish bloodbath? It was a cruel twist of fate that had led us down this dark and treacherous path.

    As I wiped away tears that had escaped my eyes, I felt the onset of a light headache. The stress and fear were taking a toll on me, both physically and emotionally. Be¡¯sforting presence beside me was a small but significant source of sce in these trying times.

    ¡°I hope they catch the shooter fast,¡± Be whispered, her voice filled with a longing for peace and safety. ¡°I really want our peace back.¡±

    I nodded in agreement, my own desire for a return to normalcy mirroring her sentiments. ¡°Me too, Be,¡± I replied, my voice trembling. ¡°I want this all to be over real quick. I¡¯m so scared, for my life and that of my baby¡¯s. It¡¯s a cruel world out here.¡±

    Just as I uttered those words, the door to the operating room swung open, and a doctor emerged. His white attire contrasted starkly with the grimness of the situation. His eyes betrayed no emotion as he regarded us.

    ¡°Are you his family?¡± he inquired, his tone detached.

    ¡°We are the ones he was standing guard for,¡± I replied, ¡°My¡­¡± my voice faltered as I struggled to find an appropriate way to address Sebastian in this context. Friend? Boyfriend? Man from a one-night stand? ¡°Uhm, Sebastian Thornton, his employer already notified his family and they are on their way here.¡±

    The doctor nodded, his expression unchanging, and proceeded to deliver the news we had been anxiously waiting for. As his words sank in, a wave of shock and devastation washed over me, leaving me no choice but to copse to the floor. The world around me blurred, and the weight of the news threatened to crush me.

    As the devastating news from the doctor washed over me, threatening to drown me in sorrow and despair, I suddenly felt strong hands wrap around me. Startled, I looked up to see that it was Sebastian. His presence, his embrace, was a lifeline in the sea of grief that threatened to engulf me.

    Tears streamed down my face like a waterfall, and I couldn¡¯t contain the overwhelming wave of emotion that had been building within me. I cried uncontrobly, my sobsing in powerful waves that seemed to wrack my entire body. I huped and gasped for breath in the midst of my tears, unable to find sce in the face of this heart-wrenching news.

    Sebastian held me close, his arms a protective shield around me. His strong and reassuring presence was a balm to my shattered heart. He gently stroked my hair, his voice a soft andforting whisper in my ear.

    ¡°Breath. I¡¯m here,¡± he whispered, his words a soothing mantra as he pulled me even closer to him. In that moment, I clung to him like a lifeline, seeking sce in the warmth of his embrace.

    My heart was in pieces, shattered by the devastating news of the security guard¡¯s death. I couldn¡¯tprehend that this was happening, that someone had paid the ultimate price for our safety. I looked up at Sebastian, my tear-filled eyes meeting his. I could see the fear and anguish in his eyes, but he was trying valiantly to stay strong for both of us.

    ¡°He¡¯s dead,¡± I choked out.

 28

    Los Angeles, Sebastian

    Life had been an unrelenting whirlwind of chaos and uncertainty ever since the night of the shooting at Mia¡¯s apartment. Now, I found myself sitting across from Mia on a ne headed to Los Angeles to meet my parents. The journey was a stark contrast to the turbulence we had experienced recently, but it was a necessary step in our lives.

    So much had transpired since that harrowing night. There had been tears, screams, and a funeral. I had remained in New York for a few days to make arrangements for the funeral of my loyal security guard. It was the least I could do for a man who had given his life to protect my baby and Mia¡¯s. He had been a trusted guardian, and his loss weighed heavily on my conscience.

    I had also taken it upon myself to establish a fund for his two children. When they reached the age of twenty-one, they would each have a substantial sum waiting for them in their bank ounts. Additionally, when they graduated from high school, I hadmitted to covering the costs of their college education. It was a way to honor the sacrifice their father had made for us.

    As I looked at Mia, I could see that her thoughts were deep in contemtion. The recent events had shaken her to her core, and I couldn¡¯t me her. They had terrified me too. The weight of responsibility now rested heavily on my shoulders, and my determination to protect Mia and our unborn child was unwavering.

    ¡°Are you alright?¡± I asked her, my voice filled with concern. Her eyes met mine, and they radiated warmth and vulnerability.

    She took a sip of her coffee before responding, ¡°Yes, I am. I¡¯m just nervous about meeting your parents.¡±

    A soft smile touched my lips as I reassured her, ¡°I¡¯ll be there with you, don¡¯t worry. They¡¯re going to love you.¡±

    I had initially nned to take Mia out for a special evening before heading to my parents¡¯ house, but the recent string of events had shattered any semnce of normalcy in our lives. Our safety had beenpromised, and I couldn¡¯t risk putting Mia in harm¡¯s way.

    Our new reality was one of constant vignce. I had moved to a more secure apartment after the break-in at our previous one, but even that had not been enough to deter the threats that loomed over us. The stalker, the burr, and the shooter all remained atrge, casting a long shadow of fear and agitation over our lives.

    The ne finally hit the tarmac, and the sensation of touching down on solid ground was both a relief and a reminder of the turbulent journey our lives had taken. As we disembarked, we were escorted out of the airport to where our car was waiting.

    I held the door open for Mia, and she gracefully stepped into the vehicle. I followed suit, taking my ce beside her, and our journey continued as we left the airport behind.

    Mia sat by the window, her gaze fixed on the passing scenery. Her beauty was undeniable, and I couldn¡¯t help but steal nces at her. She was stunning, her presence captivating in every way. Her hair fell in soft waves around her shoulders, and her eyes held a depth that drew me in. Even the way she blinked, with long, luscious eyshes, and the way she pursed her lips was a testament to her natural beauty.

    ¡°A picture wouldst longer, Thornton,¡± she said, her lips curving into a yful smile as she caught me admiring her.

    I chuckled, reaching for my phone without hesitation. ¡°Got it,¡± I grinned, capturing the moment with a quick snapshot. Her blush only enhanced her radiance, and I couldn¡¯t help but be enchanted by her.

    As I put my phone away, I took her hand in mine, a simple yet meaningful gesture. I half-expected her to pull away, but she didn¡¯t. The recent events that had rocked our lives had forged a connection between us that was stronger than ever before. We had faced danger and uncertainty together, and in the midst of it all, our bond had deepened.

    The drive to my parents¡¯ house was marked by afortable silence. It was the kind of quiet that spoke volumes about our connection and the ease with which we could simply be together. The cityscape slowly gave way to a more suburbanndscape as we approached my childhood home.

    As our driver turned onto the familiar street, I couldn¡¯t help but notice several unfamiliar cars parked in the driveway. It was unusual, as I had expected this visit to be a private affair with just Mia and me. My brows furrowed in curiosity as I wondered if my parents had invited guests over without informing me.Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.

    When the car came to a stop, I quickly got out and held the door open for Mia. She stepped out, and I gently ced my hand on the small of her back, offering silent support. Together, we made our way to the front door, our footsteps echoing in the quiet neighborhood.

    I could sense Mia¡¯s nervousness, and her apprehension mirrored my own. We were about to step into my parents¡¯ home, and the anticipation weighed heavily on both of us. I whispered reassuringly to her, ¡°It will be alright.¡±

    Approaching the front door, I took a deep breath, mentally preparing myself for the visit. I could hear voicesing from inside, and it puzzled me. I had anticipated a simple, private gathering with my parents, not a house full of guests.

    Mia whispered inquisitively, ¡°Does your parents have guests over? I thought it would just be us.¡±

    I furrowed my brow in response, equally surprised by the unexpected turn of events. ¡°I thought so too,¡± I admitted, my curiosity growing with each passing moment.

    With a sense of uncertainty, I knocked on the door, the sound echoing in the quiet evening. Footsteps approached from within, and my heart quickened its pace as I braced myself for whaty ahead.

    Suddenly, the door swung open, revealing a sight that left both Mia and me in shock. Standing before us was none other than Gavin ¡°Bonehead¡± Campbell.

 29

    Los Angeles, MiaExclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.

    I couldn¡¯t believe my eyes. Staring at the figure before us left me feeling starstruck and utterly shocked. Gavin ¡°Bonehead¡± Campbell, of all people, was standing in front of my parents¡¯ house. It was a surreal and unexpected encounter that had caught uspletely off guard.

    Sebastian appeared equally stunned by Gavin¡¯s presence, and I could see the disbelief in his eyes. The question that weighed on both our minds was clear: What in the world was Gavin doing here, and were we even at the right house?

    ¡°Hello, Mia, Sebastian,¡± Gavin greeted us, a smile on his face that I could tell was as fake as a counterfeit bill. The tension in the air was thick, and I couldn¡¯t help but wonder what had led him to this moment.

    ¡°Campbell,¡± Sebastian responded through gritted teeth, his voiceced with hostility. ¡°Fancy seeing you here.¡±

    Gavin¡¯s smile remained, but before he could continue speaking, a woman appeared at his side. She looked to be in herte fifties, her presencemanding and authoritative.

    ¡°Mom,¡± Sebastian greeted her, his tone a mixture of surprise and reservation. So, this was his mother. Her appearance was dignified, with silver-streaked hair neatly styled. She had a regal air about her, and her sharp, discerning eyes held a wisdom that spoke of years of experience. Despite the unexpected encounter, she carried herself with a quiet confidence that demanded respect.

    Gavin¡¯s mother wore a tasteful dress, and her demeanor exuded an aura of sophistication. Her voice held a calm and measured tone as she addressed us. ¡°Sebastian, Mia, it¡¯s a pleasure to have you here. I apologize for the unexpected surprise. I don¡¯t have to introduce him.¡± She then looked at me. ¡°I am Elena Vonderschut Thornton, pleasure to meet you.¡±

    I gave her a hand. ¡°It¡¯s nice meeting you too, Mrs. Thornton.¡±

    ¡°Please, call me Elena.¡± She said and then moved to the side and beckoned us in. ¡°Come in,e in we are waiting for you.¡±

    Sebastian and I made our way inside the house, our sense of disbelief still lingering from the unexpected encounter with Gavin ¡°Bonehead¡± Campbell at the front door. As we entered the spacious kitchen area, my heart pounded with a mixture of anxiety and surprise. I couldn¡¯t believe my ex-husband was here, in the same house where we were meant to be meeting Sebastian¡¯s parents.

    The scene inside the kitchen was a mix of strangers and acquaintances. Sebastian approached a man who appeared to be in his early sixties. It was clear from their interaction that this was Sebastian¡¯s father.

    ¡°Hi, Dad,¡± Sebastian greeted warmly, extending a hand for a firm handshake. His father, a figure of authority and experience, met his gesture with a strong grip. His eyes then turned toward me.

    ¡°You must be Mia,¡± he said, his voice carrying an authoritative tone. His presencemanded respect, and I couldn¡¯t help but feel a twinge of nervousness as I met his gaze.

    I smiled, attempting to convey politeness despite my internal difort. ¡°Yes, I¡¯m Mia. Nice to meet you.¡±

    Sebastian¡¯s father gestured to the nearby seats, indicating where we should sit. I took a seat as instructed, my mind still reeling from the unexpected turn of events. The tension in the room was palpable, and I couldn¡¯t help but wonder how this unexpected reunion would unfold.

    As I settled into my seat, Sebastian¡¯s mother, a woman of grace and sophistication, took the opportunity to introduce the others gathered around the table. Her voice carried a warm and weing tone, despite the awkwardness of the situation.

    ¡°This is Aunt Conny and Uncle James,¡± she began, gesturing to a couple who appeared to be in their fifties. ¡°They live in New York.¡± The couple nodded in acknowledgment. ¡°And this is their daughter, Calypso, and her boyfriend, Gavin Campbell.¡±

    I swallowed hard. The atmosphere was heavy with unspoken tension as they regarded me with a mixture of curiosity and scrutiny.

    ¡°Nice to meet you,¡± I murmured quietly, feeling the weight of the situation pressing down on me.

    ¡°Nice to meet you too,¡± they all replied in unison.

    The dining table was elegantly set, and a variety of dishes were served. tters of scallops, pasta, white rice, stir-fried vegetables, roasted chicken, stir-fried noodles, and sausages adorned the table, offering an array of options. I couldn¡¯t help but feel overwhelmed by the choices, uncertain of what to select.

    After some contemtion, I settled for a serving of stir-fried noodles and roasted chicken. The vors were delicious, a wee distraction from the palpable tension that permeated the room. The difort in the atmosphere was impossible to ignore, and I could sense Gavin¡¯s lingering gaze on me. Sebastian, too, seemed to have noticed Gavin¡¯s stare, his anger radiating off him in waves.

    Amidst the strained silence, Elena, Sebastian¡¯s mother, decided to break the ice with a polite inquiry. Her gaze shifted toward me, and she asked, ¡°So, Mia, what do you do for a living?¡±

    I smiled, grateful for the chance to engage in a more neutral conversation. ¡°I¡¯m a fashion consultant,¡± I replied. ¡°I n to continue working while being pregnant.¡±

    Sebastian¡¯s father cleared his throat, adding to the growing tension. ¡°How did you meet Sebastian?¡± he inquired, his curiosity evident.

    I took a deep breath, trying to maintainposure under the scrutiny. ¡°We met at one of my client¡¯s weddings,¡± I exined, my gaze shifting to Elena. ¡°Your daughter-inw, Sophia¡¯s wedding.¡±

    His father raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. ¡°Oh, really?¡± he responded. ¡°So, were you still with Gavin at that time?¡±

    The question made me ufortable, but I didn¡¯t let it show. Instead, I took another breath and replied, ¡°Uh, no. We had been divorced for a long time by then.¡±

    Gavin couldn¡¯t resist interjecting, his voiceced with bitterness. ¡°One month,¡± he grumbled. ¡°We were divorced for one month.¡±

    I gave him a forced smile, choosing my words carefully. ¡°Yes, as I said, a long time.¡±

    Calypso, Gavin¡¯s girlfriend, watched the exchange with a frown, clearly sensing the tension. She couldn¡¯t help but voice her own confusion. ¡°You said on TV that she cheated on you,¡± she pointed out. ¡°But you were already divorced.¡±

    Gavin attempted to deflect her question, using his charm to his advantage. ¡°Come on, baby,¡± he chuckled, reaching out to her. ¡°Are you going to believe her or me?¡±

    Calypso appeared conflicted, her gaze shifting between Gavin and me. I knew the tactics Gavin was employing  gaslighting, maniption  all too well. I felt a twinge of sympathy for her, as she seemed caught in the crossfire of aplex situation she didn¡¯t fully understand.

    Gavin continued with a more ttering approach, diverting attention from the ufortable topic. ¡°You¡¯re very beautiful, you know that?¡± he said to Calypso. ¡°Your eyes¡­ I could get lost in them every day.¡±

    I couldn¡¯t help but roll my eyes at the familiar tactics. I had been through it all with Gavin  the maniption, the charm, and the emotional rollercoaster. I couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of foreboding for Calypso, who appeared captivated by his words. She didn¡¯t yet realize the tumultuous journey she might be embarking on with him.

    As we finally reached the end of the awkward dinner, I looked over at Sebastian, and it was evident that he was just as fed up with the situation as I was. The tension in the room had been almost unbearable, and it was a relief to see the end in sight.

    Wanting to offer somefort and reassurance, I ced my hand in his, feeling his gentle touch as he stroked it lightly. It was a simple, intimate gesture that conveyed more than words ever could. Then, without warning, he leaned in and nted a soft kiss on my forehead.

    I couldn¡¯t help but feel a rush of butterflies in my stomach at his unexpected affection. ¡°Why did you do that?¡± I whispered to him, my curiosity piqued.

    Sebastian met my gaze, his eyes reflecting a mixture of emotions. ¡°Because Mr. Bonehead was watching us,¡± he grumbled, his lips forming a half-smile.

    A realization dawned on me; he had kissed me to make Gavin jealous. I sighed, understanding his intentions. It was his way of asserting our connection and showing that I had moved on. Despite the awkwardness of the evening, his gesture brought a sense of warmth and reassurance.

    Elena, Sebastian¡¯s mother, approached us, breaking the moment of silent understanding. ¡°I have a pretty dress I would like you to try out,¡± she said, her tone gentle and inviting.

    ¡°I would love to,¡± I replied with a smile, grateful for the chance to escape the lingering difort of the dinner table.

    Sebastian nodded in agreement, his smile conveying his approval. ¡°Alright, Mom.¡±

    Elena took my hand, and together we headed upstairs. The house was a striking blend of elegance and charm. Its white exterior, adorned with blue ents, reminded me of the picturesque houses in Greece. Inside, the beauty of the decor took my breath away  lush nts, expansive windows that allowed the warm Los Angeles sun to pour in, and a grand wooden staircase that added to the mansion¡¯s allure.

    Elena led me to arge door, and as it swung open, I found myself standing in her beautifully appointed room.

    ¡°Your room is beautiful,¡± I said.

    ¡°Thank you,¡± Elena replied, ¡°just as beautiful as you darling.¡±

 30

    Los Angeles, Mia

    Standing in the expansive room, I watched in awe as Elena opened yet another door, revealing a grand walk-in closet that was nothing short of spectacr. It was a sight to behold, so beautifully designed that it resembled a high-end boutique.

    ¡°Wow,¡± I breathed, taking in the sight of the meticulously organized clothing, shoes, and essories. ¡°This looks like a whole store.¡±

    Elenaughed, a warm and inviting sound. ¡°I love shopping in my closet,¡± she admitted, clearly proud of her impressive collection.

    As she moved gracefully through the closet, inspecting the carefully hung garments, I couldn¡¯t help but be captivated by the sheer magnitude of designer items on disy. A massive mirror in the center of the walk-in closet allowed me to catch a glimpse of myself. My stomach, though still fairly t, was adorned with the undeniable glow of pregnancy.

    I wandered deeper into the closet, my eyes scanning the racks filled with limited edition designer pieces. The value of the clothing and essories in this closet was staggering, likely worth millions.

    ¡°Mister Thornton must love you so much for him to build you this,¡± I remarked, my voice tinged with admiration.

    Elena chuckled, her eyes twinkling with affection. ¡°He¡¯s the best,¡± she replied, her tone filled with genuine appreciation for her husband. It was clear that their love and connection ran deep, a sentiment that was evident in the grand gestures like this walk-in closet.

    As I explored the luxurious space, Elena began to sift through her collection, selecting a beautiful dress for me to try on. It was clear that she wanted me to feelfortable and weed in her home, and I couldn¡¯t help but appreciate her kindness and hospitality.

    I admired the dress she had chosen; it was an exquisite piece with delicatece detailing and a ttering silhouette. Elena handed it to me with a warm smile. ¡°Why don¡¯t you try this on?¡± she suggested. ¡°I think it would look stunning on you.¡±

    I epted the dress with gratitude, touched by her thoughtfulness. ¡°Thank you so much, Elena. It¡¯s a beautiful dress.¡±

    Elena then excused herself, leaving me with the dress and the opportunity to change. As I carefully removed my current outfit and slipped into the dress, I couldn¡¯t help but reflect on the whirlwind of events that had brought me here.

    Meeting Sebastian¡¯s parents, especially under such unusual circumstances, had been both unexpected and overwhelming. However, the warmth and hospitality I had encountered made me feel more at ease, and I couldn¡¯t help but be grateful for their eptance.

    Once I was dressed, I admired my reflection in therge mirror. The dress clung to my growing baby bump, highlighting the undeniable proof of new life within me. Despite the challenges and unexpected twists that life had thrown our way, I couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of hope and anticipation for the future.

    As I returned to the closet¡¯s main area, Elena reappeared with a smile of approval. ¡°You look stunning, Mia,¡± sheplimented, her eyes sparkling with genuine kindness.

    The dress Elena had selected for me was undeniably stunning, with delicatece detailing and a silhouette that ttered my changing figure. As I admired myself in the mirror, I couldn¡¯t help but express my thoughts.

    ¡°It¡¯s so pretty,¡± I began, ¡°but it¡¯s white. It looks like a wedding dress.¡±

    Elena shed me a warm smile, her eyes filled with a hint of mischief. ¡°You would make a beautiful bride,¡± she said, herpliment catching me by surprise. ¡°Can I do your hair too?¡±

    I furrowed my eyebrows, feeling a mix of surprise and gratitude. ¡°You don¡¯t have to,¡± I insisted, not wanting to impose on her hospitality.

    Elena¡¯s smile remained unwavering. ¡°Come on,¡± she insisted, her joy evident in her voice. ¡°I have two sons, and I could never do this with them.¡±

    Her words resonated with me. She was a mother to boys, and the opportunity to ¡°doll up¡± a daughter was something she seemed to cherish. I didn¡¯t want to disappoint her, so I agreed. ¡°Well, if you really want to.¡±

    Her enthusiasm was infectious, and she practically beamed with delight as she led me to her immense vanity table. As she opened the drawers, I felt like I had stumbled upon an entire Sephora store. The abundance of makeup, lipsticks, and various beauty products overwhelmed me. Some brands were unfamiliar, a testament to Elena¡¯s refined taste.

    With practiced ease, Elena began to work on my hair, creating a half-up, half-down hairstyle that suited the dress perfectly. Her skilled hands moved effortlessly through my hair, and I couldn¡¯t help butment on her expertise. ¡°You¡¯re very good at this,¡± Iplimented her.

    Elena chuckled softly, her eyes filled with nostalgia. ¡°Well, I was a makeup artist when I was your age,¡± she revealed, her voice carrying a sense of pride.

    ¡°Really?¡± I asked, genuinely intrigued by her past. ¡°Where did you work?¡±

    Elena¡¯s smile widened as she reminisced. ¡°I worked with Runway and Victoria¡¯s Secret,¡± she replied, her words tinged with fond memories. ¡°It was an exciting time.¡±

    I marveled at her experiences, realizing that there was much more to Elena than met the eye. As she moved on to apply foundation and eyeliner, her touch was gentle and precise. It was clear that her makeup skills were as refined as her sense of style.

    Throughout the process, we chatted about various topics, from fashion to motherhood. Elena¡¯s warmth and kindness put me at ease, and I found myself enjoying the unexpected bonding experience. As she applied the finishing touches, she handed me a mirror to examine her handiwork.

    I couldn¡¯t help but gasp in amazement. Elena had transformed my appearance, enhancing my features while maintaining a natural and elegant look. I felt like a new version of myself, and I couldn¡¯t be more grateful for her generosity.

    ¡°You look absolutely stunning, Mia,¡± Elena dered, her eyes filled with pride and satisfaction.

    I couldn¡¯t help but smile, genuinely touched by her kindness. ¡°Thank you so much, Elena. You¡¯ve made me feel like part of the family.¡±

    Elena¡¯s warm smile remained, and she said, ¡°You¡¯re wee, darling. Come, let¡¯s go downstairs and show you off.¡±

    I was taken aback by her suggestion. I had assumed that this was a fun makeover for me, and I had nned to wipe off the makeup and change back into my regr clothes. ¡°Uhm, I don¡¯t think that¡¯s a good idea,¡± I replied nervously. The idea of being the center of attention made me ufortable.

    Elena pouted yfully, her eyes filled with determination. ¡°Oh,e on,¡± she urged, her enthusiasm unwavering. ¡°You look absolutely stunning, and I want to show you off.¡±

    With a reluctant sigh, I relented. ¡°Alright then.¡±This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.

    I couldn¡¯t deny that Elena had worked her magic, and I did indeed feel beautiful. Together, we made our way downstairs, where the sound of voices emanated from the living room.

    ¡°They¡¯re in the living room,¡± Elena informed me, leading the way.

    As I entered the living room after her, the room fell silent. All eyes were on me, and I felt a wave of nervousness wash over me. To my surprise, there was another man seated in the room, someone who had arrived while I was in the bedroom with Elena.

    Elena, her pride evident, walked over to the man and shook his hand. She exchanged a few words with him before turning her gaze back to me, her expression filled with a mixture of excitement and anticipation.

    ¡°Pastor Frederick,¡± she began, addressing the man with a sense of gravity. ¡°She¡¯s ready. They are ready to get married.¡±

    My eyes widened in shock, and I stuttered in disbelief, ¡°What?!¡±

 31

    Los Angeles, Sebastian

    I couldn¡¯t help but notice that something was off from the moment my mother offered to help Mia with her clothes. My mother was notorious for her protectiveness over her possessions and her aversion to anyone touching or trying on her things. It was a peculiar gesture, but I gave her the benefit of the doubt, assuming she wanted to bond with Mia, especially with the presence of unwanted guests like Gavin Bonehead Campbell, who sat across from me in the living room, wearing a sour expression.

    I couldn¡¯t deny feeling a mix of sympathy and frustration toward my cousin, Calypso, who had chosen to be with Gavin. She had seen his interview, which should have been a ring red g, but she seemed to have overlooked it. Everyone had their own problems to deal with, and it was clear that Calypso and Gavin were caught up in their own drama.

    As I sat in the living room, contemting the unusual presence of Pastor Frederick, I couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that something unexpected was unfolding. My mother had only ever invited the pastor when there was a religious event or ceremony, and today had started as an ordinary day. My curiosity grew as I wondered what could have prompted his visit.

    The pieces of the puzzle fell into ce when my mother reappeared in the living room, followed by Mia, who was dressed in white. Realization hit me like a tidal wave, and suddenly everything made sense.

    My heart raced, and my eyes widened in astonishment. I had never expected that Mia and I would find ourselves in this situation. I exchanged a quick nce with Mia, and her expression mirrored my own disbelief.

    ¡°Pastor Frederick,¡± my mom began, addressing the man with a sense of gravity. ¡°She¡¯s ready. They are ready to get married.¡±

    My mouth fell wide open and Mia¡¯s eyes widened in shock, and she stuttered in disbelief, ¡°What?!¡±

    As the tension in the room continued to rise, I ground my teeth in frustration. I couldn¡¯t believe my mother had orchestrated this situation, pushing Mia and me into an impromptu wedding. It was a ludicrous turn of events, and I was determined to put an end to it.

    ¡°Mom,¡± I hissed through clenched teeth, my patience wearing thin. ¡°Cut this bullshit out.¡±Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.

    Pastor Frederick nced between me and my mother, clearly perplexed by the sudden discord. ¡°Are they not getting married?¡± he inquired, unsure of the unfolding situation.

    My mother responded with an unwavering determination, ¡°Oh yes, they will get married.¡± She then turned her stern gaze toward my father. ¡°Tell your son to behave.¡±

    Mia¡¯s expression transitioned from shock to anger as the truth of the situation began to sink in. ¡°What is this? Are you guys out of your minds?¡± she eximed, her annoyance evident. ¡°I don¡¯t want to get married.¡±

    My mother regarded Mia, a smile on her face as she dered, ¡°You make a beautiful bride.¡±

    Mia rolled her eyes, exasperation in her voice. ¡°I don¡¯t want to be a bride. Why are you pushing pregnancy on us when we clearly don¡¯t want it? Would you rather have your son in a loveless marriage?¡±

    My mother took a deep breath, visibly trying to contain her frustration. ¡°You are pregnant with our son¡¯s child. Marriage is a requirement. The baby¡¯s future will be at stake otherwise.¡±

    Mia scoffed and fakeughed. ¡°I¡¯d rather walk to hell and hold my baby¡¯s hand on the way than get married.¡±

    A collective gasp filled the room at Mia¡¯s bold statement. Even Pastor Frederick seemed taken aback as he muttered, ¡°We are in the presence of Satan herself.¡±

    My father, growing increasingly irritated, grabbed me by the upper arm and whispered sharply, ¡°Get a hold of yourdy!¡±

    ¡°She doesn¡¯t want to get married, and I don¡¯t either,¡± I retorted in a low voice, frustration evident in my tone. ¡°We will go home.¡±

    But then my father uttered the words I had dreaded. ¡°Then you can step down as CEO from thepany.¡±

    I couldn¡¯t believe he had actually said it. ¡°What the hell, Dad?¡± I eximed, astonished by his ultimatum.

    My father¡¯s expression remained stern as he reiterated, ¡°I¡¯m serious.¡±

    ¡°And who would take my ce?¡± I challenged, not believing that there was a viable alternative. ¡°Patrick has his own life and doesn¡¯t want anything to do with thepany.¡±

    My father scoffed, his resolve unwavering. ¡°If you don¡¯t marry that girl, thepany goes to Campbell.¡±

    The pressure in the room was suffocating, and my father¡¯s ultimatum hung heavily in the air. He was willing to hand over the reins of thepany to Gavin Campbell if Mia and I didn¡¯t proceed with the wedding. It was an unthinkable situation, and I couldn¡¯t believe he would resort to such drastic measures.

    ¡°You don¡¯t even know Campbell,¡± I retorted, exasperated by my father¡¯s stubbornness.

    My father remained resolute. ¡°Well, then I will get to know him when he takes over thepany.¡±

    I couldn¡¯t help but feel a growing frustration with my father¡¯s unyielding stance. I could see Gavin, with a self-satisfied grin on his face, reveling in the turmoil he had caused. The thought of him benefiting from this situation made my blood boil.

    As the pastor patiently waited for our response, I massaged my temples, trying toe to terms with the impossible choice before me. It was a lose-lose situation, and neither option was desirable.

    ¡°So, what is it going to be? Are we getting married today?¡± the pastor inquired, his gaze shifting between Mia and me.

    ¡°Yes,¡± I reluctantly uttered, my voice heavy with resignation, at the same time Mia emphatically said, ¡°no.¡±

    She turned to me with incredulity in her eyes, her voice barely above a whisper. ¡°Sebastian?¡±

    I stood up from my seat and walked over to Mia, leaning in to speak softly into her ear. ¡°Mypany¡¯s at stake,¡± I confessed, my voiceced with regret. ¡°I don¡¯t care,¡± Mia whispered back, her determination unwavering. ¡°Marriage is a big deal, and I don¡¯t want it¡­ at all.¡±

    I sighed, knowing she was right. Marriage was a significantmitment, and neither of us wanted to enter into it under these circumstances. But the weight of my father¡¯s threat, coupled with the presence of my scheming ex-husband, made it feel like we had no other choice.

    ¡°Believe me, I don¡¯t want it either,¡± I admitted, my voice pained. ¡°But please, let¡¯s pretend. I don¡¯t want your boneheaded ex to enjoy this drama. Let¡¯s just end it.¡±

    Mia locked eyes with me, and I could see the internal struggle within her. After a tense moment, she reluctantly agreed, her voice filled with resignation. ¡°Fine, let¡¯s get married.¡±

 32

    Los Angeles, Mia

    The car ride to Sebastian¡¯s house was shrouded in a heavy silence, as if the weight of our impromptu marriage hung in the air. I had entered his parents¡¯ home as an unmarried woman, and now I was leaving as a wife. It was a surreal transformation that neither of us had anticipated.

    Sebastian and I sat in the car, lost in our own thoughts. How could this have happened? The circumstances that had led us to this impulsive decision were far from ideal, and the reality of it all was slowly sinking in.

    Sebastian had exined to me that if we didn¡¯t go through with the wedding, thepany would fall into the hands of Gavin, my conniving ex-husband. The thought of Gavin being in control of thepany that Sebastian had worked so hard for was unbearable. Gavin didn¡¯t deserve any part of it; if there was one thing he deserved, it was a one-way ticket to hell.

    As we exchanged our hastily spoken ¡°I do¡¯s,¡± I couldn¡¯t help but let out a sigh of resignation. My life had taken an unexpected turn, and I was struggling toe to terms with it. I wanted to scream, to cry, to express the whirlwind of emotions coursing through me, but no words or tears came.

    Our car eventually came to a stop in front of an imposing mansion, a sprawling estate that bore the name ¡°The Thornton Residence¡± in elegant, gold-embossed letters at the entrance. The mansion was a sight to behold.

    The Thornton Residence was a majestic structure, with a grandeur that could only be described as awe-inspiring. Its architecture was a harmonious blend of ssic and contemporary styles, boasting a white facade adorned with intricate details and columns that reached toward the sky. Tall, arched windows graced the front of the house, allowing glimpses of the opulence within.

    A meticulouslyndscaped garden framed the mansion, with lush greenery and vibrant flowers in full bloom. Stone pathways meandered through the garden, leading to various nooks and crannies where one could find peace and solitude amidst the natural beauty.

    The driveway was a pristine stretch of cobblestone, nked by well-manicured hedges and illuminated by elegantmpposts. It led to a massive wooden door that appeared to guard the entrance to this grand abode.

    As I stepped out of the car and gazed up at the mansion, I couldn¡¯t help but feel overwhelmed by its splendor.

    The maids were waiting in the hallway as Sebastian and I entered the grand house. Sebastian helped me take off my coat, his touch gentle and reassuring. I still felt overwhelmed by the turn of events, but I appreciated his presence beside me.

    As we walked through the hallway, Sebastian led me upstairs toward the bedroom. The house was a blend of opulence and elegance, every corner exuding a sense of luxury that was foreign to me. It was clear that no expense had been spared in creating this haven.

    Upon entering the bedroom, I was greeted by a sight of breathtaking beauty. A massive chandelier adorned the ceiling, casting a warm and inviting glow throughout the room. The centerpiece was an enormous bed, plush and inviting, with soft sheets and a canopy that added to its regal charm. A beautiful vanity table stood against one of the walls, adorned with fine cosmetics and perfumes.

    I took a seat on the edge of the bed, sinking into the softness of itsfort. Sebastian joined me, sitting down beside me, his eyes filled with concern.

    ¡°Are you alright?¡± he asked, his voice soft andforting.

    I looked around the room, taking in thevish surroundings. ¡°I¡¯m just trying to process it all,¡± I admitted. ¡°It¡¯s so much to take in.¡±

    Sebastian nodded understandingly. ¡°I know you didn¡¯t want this, and honestly, neither did I,¡± he confessed. ¡°But I did what I had to do, not just for thepany but for us.¡±

    I met his gaze and gave him a reassuring smile. ¡°I understand why you had to do it, and you shouldn¡¯t feel guilty about it. If I were in your shoes, I wouldn¡¯t want Gavin to take over thepany you¡¯ve worked so hard for either.¡±

    He sighed, and we both acknowledged the gravity of the situation we found ourselves in. There was so much going on in our lives at the moment-a stalker, a burr, a shooter. It was a never-ending wave of chaos and danger.

    ¡°What if they¡¯re all the same person?¡± I mused, voicing a troubling thought that had been nagging at me.

    Sebastian furrowed his brows in contemtion. ¡°If they¡¯re all connected, then we need to find out who¡¯s behind it,¡± he said with determination.

    I nodded in agreement. ¡°We can¡¯t let fear control us. We need to take charge of our lives and protect our family.¡±

    Sebastian ced a reassuring hand on my shoulder, a silent promise that he would do everything in his power to keep us safe. ¡°We¡¯ll get through this together, Mia.¡±

    I smiled at him, grateful for his unwavering support. ¡°I know we will, Sebastian.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re my husband now.¡±

    Heughed. ¡°And you¡¯re my wife.¡±

    ¡°Crazy, right?¡± I chuckled.

    Sebastian¡¯s hand remained intertwined with mine as he asked, ¡°Are you okay, though? I mean, you and the baby?¡±

    I gave a reassuring nod. ¡°Pregnancy feels great for now. I don¡¯t look like an elephant yet,¡± I joked, trying to keep things light. The thought of gaining weight did make me a little anxious, but I knew it was all part of the beautiful journey ahead, and I was ready to embrace it.

    Sebastian chuckled at my remark. ¡°You¡¯re the cutest elephant ever,¡± he teased, his words making me blush.

    He then suggested getting something to eat or drink, perhaps dessert since we hadn¡¯t had any at his parents¡¯ house. The idea of dessert, especially ice cream, sounded delightful. ¡°I would love ice cream,¡± I replied, my taste buds tingling at the thought. ¡°Vani.¡±

    Sebastian¡¯s face lit up with a smile. ¡°That¡¯s my favorite too,¡± he admitted.

    ¡°No way, everyone tells me it¡¯s so basic.¡± Iughed,

    ¡°There¡¯s nothing wrong with being basic,¡± he assured me.

    Just as we were about to discuss our ice cream ns, my phone rang, and I saw that it was Be calling. I picked up the phone, greeted her, and then there was an unexpected burst of excitement on the other end.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°HOLY SHIT, YOU ARE MARRIED TO !¡± Be¡¯s voice nearly blew out my eardrum.

    My heart raced, and I exchanged a puzzled look with Sebastian. How did Be find out about our impromptu wedding? There was no way the paparazzi could have captured that intimate moment in his parents¡¯ living room.

    Sebastian, clearly annoyed by Be¡¯s outburst, turned on the television. To our shock, the first thing we saw was a news segment featuring none other than Sebastian and me getting married in the living room, filmed by none other than the notorious Gavin Bonehead Campbell.

 33

    Los Angeles, Sebastian

    The shock of discovering that Gavin had filmed our private wedding and potentially sold it to a TV station left us both in disbelief. How desperate could one person be to invade our personal lives like this? I watched as Mia paced back and forth in the room, her nerves clearly getting the best of her. Even the ice cream I had brought her seemed unable to calm her down.

    ¡°I¡¯m so scared for my family,¡± she admitted, her voice quivering with anxiety.

    Her phone rang, and she hastily picked it up. It was her brother, Kieran, on the line. She decided to put the call on speaker so I could also listen to their conversation.

    ¡°You¡¯re married?!¡± Kieran¡¯s voice echoed through the phone, filled with astonishment. ¡°How did that happen?¡±

    Mia quickly recounted the events of the day to her brother, including the unexpected wedding ceremony and Gavin¡¯s presence with my cousin.

    ¡°So, Gavin is with Sebastian¡¯s cousin?¡± Kieran eximed incredulously.

    I couldn¡¯t help but chime in, feeling sympathy for my cousin. ¡°I feel bad for my cousin,¡± I admitted.

    After Mia finished talking to her brother, she looked at me with exhaustion in her eyes. ¡°I¡¯m so exhausted from today. I¡¯ll head to bed,¡± she announced.

    I nodded in understanding and led her to the bedroom. ¡°So,¡± I began as we entered the room. ¡°This is my room, and it¡¯s the only one that¡¯s furnished for now. You know, I just moved in here a few days ago. You can sleep on the bed, and I¡¯ll take the couch,¡± I offered.

    I pulled out some extra nkets and handed them to her.

    ¡°Goodnight,¡± I whispered to Mia before closing the bedroom door gently. As I made my way to the kitchen, I couldn¡¯t help but feel overwhelmed by the chaotic turn my life had taken. There was so much going on, and the weight of responsibility bore down on me heavily.

    Leaning against the sink, I massaged my temples to ease the brewing headache. My phone buzzed, and I noticed a flood of emails from work. Some were congratting me on my unexpected wedding, while others questioned its authenticity. Gossip sites were already filled with articles specting about the situation.

    I sighed heavily, cing my phone on the counter. The stress was taking its toll on me, and I decided to pour myself a ss of whisky to help take the edge off.

    Just as I turned around with the ss in my hand, I nearly jumped out of my skin when I saw Mia standing in the kitchen. She looked at me with tired eyes, and I quickly set the whisky bottle aside, not wanting her to see me indulging in alcohol at this moment.

    ¡°Do you need something?¡± I asked, trying to soundposed as I faced her. She shook her head, her expression weary, and walked over to me, wrapping her arms around me in a tight embrace. I reciprocated, pulling her close.

    ¡°Are you okay?¡± I inquired softly, my heart tightening with concern. The scent of her strawberry shampoo filled my senses, a scent I hadn¡¯t realized I cherished until now.

    ¡°I am okay now,¡± she whispered, her voice barely audible as she clung to me. I tilted her chin up gently, so our eyes met. There was something in her gaze, a vulnerability that tugged at my heart.

    In that moment, I found myself captivated by Mia¡¯s eyes, as if I could lose myself in their depths. It was a sensation I hadn¡¯t experienced before, and it left me feeling both exhrated and vulnerable. There was something about her that stirred a longing deep within me, a desire I couldn¡¯t ignore.

    Her every movement, every graceful gesture, held a certain allure that was impossible to resist. As we stood there, her lips so inviting and pouty, I couldn¡¯t help myself. Without a conscious thought, I leaned in and pressed my mouth softly against hers.

    The kiss started with a gentle touch of our lips, but it quickly deepened, bing more passionate and intense with every passing second. I felt a surge of desire coursing through me as I pulled her closer, my hand sliding to the back of her head to hold her in the kiss. I wanted more of her, more of that electrifying connection we shared.

    Our kiss was like a zing fire, melting away every icy barrier I had built around my heart. I couldn¡¯t get enough of the taste of her, the feel of her soft lips against mine. It was a kiss that left me craving more, a kiss that made me realize what had been missing from my life all along-Mia.

    As our lips parted, we both gasped for breath, our faces inches apart. The intensity of the moment hung in the air between us, a palpable energy that left me feeling both ted and overwhelmed.

    Suddenly, the doorbell rang, shattering the quiet serenity of our evening together. Mia and I, entwined in a warm embrace, were jolted from our cocoon offort. The shrill chime of the doorbell echoed through the room, making us both jump in surprise.

    Mia disentangled herself from my arms and gazed at me, her eyes wide with apprehension. ¡°Are you expecting someone?¡± she inquired, her voice tinged with anxiety. I shook my head, my heart pounding in my chest. I wasn¡¯t expecting anyone, especially not at thiste hour.

    With cautious steps, I approached the front door, my senses on high alert. I turned the doorknob slowly and pulled the door open, peering out into the dimly lit night. To my bewilderment, there was no one in sight-just the empty darkness of the front porch.

    My eyes flicked downward, and there, on the cold doormat,y a solitary envelope. It was an eerie sight, the pale envelope contrasting sharply with the dark wood of the floor. My curiosity piqued, I bent down to retrieve it, a sense of unease settling over me.

    I closed the door behind me and returned to Mia, who was watching me with a mixture of curiosity and concern. ¡°This is what they left on the doormat,¡± I said, holding up the unassuming envelope. It was in, with no markings or clues as to its origin.

    Mia¡¯s brow furrowed as she took the envelope from my hand, examining it closely. ¡°This is strange,¡± she murmured. ¡°Who would leave something like this without a note or exnation?¡±

    Without hesitation, I grabbed my phone, my fingers rapidly tapping the screen as I essed the security camera footage. I needed to see who had left this envelope on our doorstep. As the footage yed, my heart sank. The figure captured on the camera appeared to be a regr mailman, wearing the standard uniform and carrying a satchel.

    Mia peered over my shoulder at the screen, her eyes narrowing in suspicion. ¡°It can¡¯t just be a regr mailman,¡± she said firmly. ¡°Not at this hour, and certainly not with a message like that.¡±

    I couldn¡¯t argue with her logic, but the camera footage didn¡¯t offer much more information. The mailman¡¯s face was obscured, and his actions seemed routine as he delivered other mail to neighboring houses. It was as if he had intentionally blended in.

    My sense of dread deepened, and I knew we needed to get to the bottom of this mystery. Without speaking, I went to the kitchen and retrieved a small knife, its gleaming de offering a modicum offort in this unsettling situation.

    Back in the living room, I carefully opened the envelope to see what¡¯s inside. The card held an ominous message, written in bold, ck letters that sent a chill down my spine. As I read the words aloud, it became clear that our problems were far from over.

    On this journey, secrets unfold,

    Intrigue and danger, tales untold.

    Keep your guard up, stay prepared,This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.

    For the game of shadows, beware.

 34

    Los Angeles, Mia

    I woke up when the sun kissed my face, its gentle warmth seeping through the curtains and coaxing me from slumber. Last night had been anything but restful; my mind was gued by thoughts of the ominous letter that had arrived at our doorstep. It was a chilling, unsettling message, made all the more disturbing by the fact that the sender seemed to possess intimate knowledge of Sebastian¡¯s new address.

    As Iy there, I couldn¡¯t shake the feeling of unease that had settled in the pit of my stomach. Sebastian and I had spent hours specting about who could be behind the letter, running through a list of possible suspects until exhaustion finallypelled us to give up. In the end, we had decided to send a picture of the letter to Patrick, hoping that his analytical skills could shed some light on this mystery.

    I turned my gaze towards the couch, where Sebastian was still fast asleep. Another thought had been upying my mind, one that had little to do with the unsettling letter. It was the memory of our unexpected kiss, a passionate moment that had taken both of us by surprise. The memory of it sent a shiver down my spine.

    Our lips had met so suddenly, and time had seemed to stand still in that brief, electrifying instant. It was a kiss filled with longing, with unspoken emotions that had been building between us. Despite having known Sebastian for only a rtively short time, the challenges we were facing together had drawn us closer than I could have ever imagined.

    I couldn¡¯t deny the flutter of my heart whenever his gaze locked onto mine. There was something about the way he looked at me, a mixture of understanding and protectiveness that made me feel safe and cherished. In my heart, I had no doubt that he would be an incredible father to our unborn child.

    With a soft sigh, I realized that I had been staring at him for longer than I intended, lost in my thoughts like some sort of a mesmerized observer. I chuckled softly at my own behavior, feeling a blush creep onto my cheeks. It was strange how easily he had be a focal point of my life in such a short span of time.

    As I carefully rose from the bed, I couldn¡¯t help but wonder about the letter again. The handwriting was unmistakably the same as the one from our previous encounters with the anonymous sender. It was twisted and eerie, like something out of a horror story. Patrick, with his analytical mind and expertise, might be able to discern something that we had missed.

    With a yawn and a stretch, I mustered the willpower to begin my day.N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.

    The soft patter of my footsteps led me to the bathroom, where I would start the daily ritual that would help shake off the remnants of sleep. I gathered my long hair and twisted it into a loose bun, securing it in ce with a hair tie. With each passing day, it seemed my hair had taken on a life of its own, growing thicker and shinier, almost as if it was responding to the life growing inside me.

    I slowly shed my clothes, feeling the cool air against my skin as I stood there, vulnerable and exposed. There was a growing awareness of my changing body, a tiny human I carried with me. As I reached for the shower handle and let the warm water cascade over me, I couldn¡¯t help but ce a gentle hand on my abdomen. There it was, a small bump, barely noticeable to the outside world, but significant to me. It was a promise, a whisper of things toe, and it filled me with an overwhelming sense of love and responsibility.

    A soft smile crept onto my face as I thought about the precious life I was nurturing within me. My little munchkin, as I affectionately called the tiny being growing in my womb. I would do anything to protect and care for this unborn child, to ensure a safe and happy life.

    With a sense of purpose, I continued my morning routine. I knew that in a few weeks, I would have to go for another ultrasound appointment. By then, I hoped that my belly would show a little more, that the world would see what I already felt so profoundly. The anticipation of seeing my baby on the monitor again filled me with both excitement and nervousness.

    As the warm water cascaded over me, I began to hum a familiar tune from my childhood. It was a song that had provided sce during the darkest moments of my past. I couldn¡¯t help but smile through the lyrics, each note a reminder of strength and resilience.

    In the recesses of my memories, I recalled a time when my father¡¯s cruelty had known no bounds. He would lock me up in a dark room for hours, depriving me of food and drink as a form of punishment. It was a torment that I wouldn¡¯t wish on anyone, a childhood filled with fear and pain.

    But there had been a light in those dark days, a flicker of hope and love. Kieran, my father¡¯s favorite, had always defied his wishes. While my father forbade anyone from feeding me, Kieran had always found a way to sneak snacks and ice pops into the room for me. In the beginning, I had envied him for the favor my father showed him, but as time passed and Kieran stood up for me, a bond between us had formed that transcended our roles as siblings.

    I remembered the way Kieran¡¯s eyes had sparkled with mischief as he defied our father, slipping me bits offort and sustenance. Those small acts of rebellion had been a lifeline, a reminder that even in the bleakest of circumstances, there could be kindness and love.

    As I turned off the shower and reached for a towel, my heart was lightened by the bittersweet memories of my childhood. The scars remained, both physical and emotional, but they had shaped me into the person I was today, resilient and determined.

    However, just as I stepped out of the shower the door suddenly opened revealing Sebastian who stared wide eyed at my naked body.

    I screamed.

 35

    Los Angeles, Mia

    The room was thick with tension, and my heart pounded in my chest. I had screeched in surprise when the bathroom door suddenly swung open, revealing Sebastian standing there, his eyes locked onto me. But now, as my scream subsided, silence enveloped us.

    Sebastian¡¯s gaze never wavered, his eyes fixed on mine. I couldn¡¯t read his expression, and a shiver ran down my spine. Was it anticipation? Fear? The cold air in the room seemed to seep into my very bones, adding to the sense of unease that hung between us.

    Suddenly, without a word, Sebastian took a step closer. The atmosphere grew charged, and my breath hitched in my throat. I wasn¡¯t sure what was happening, but the intensity of the moment left me breathless.

    He reached out, his fingers lightly grazing my chin, and then he cupped my face gently, as if holding something precious. In that instant, our eyes locked, and the world around us seemed to fade into the background.

    Sebastian leaned in, closing the gap between us, and our lips met. It was a kiss filled with hunger and urgency that left no room for doubt or hesitation. It was as if time itself had stopped, and there was only the sensation of our lips moving together, a desperate need to taste and feel each other.

    His kiss was passionate, consuming, as if he wanted to convey all his emotions and desires through that single act. It was a kiss that spoke of longing, of unspoken emotions that had been building between us, unacknowledged until now.

    My body responded instinctively, my arms wrapping around him, pulling him closer. The heat of his body pressed against mine, and I could feel the rapid beat of his heart echoing my own. It was a whirlwind of sensations, a storm of emotions that threatened to consume us both.

    As the kiss deepened, I forgot about everything else-the mysterious letter, the uncertainties of the future, the scars of my past. There was only this moment, this connection between us, a raw and powerful force that defied exnation.

    His hand found its way to my breasts and my clit.

    I moaned loudly, and he smiled at me as his fingers teased my nipples and rubbed my pussy. His lips moved closer to mine and our tongues met in a dance of lust.

    My hands went to the back of his head, pulling him into me. ¡°I want you,¡± I said, breathlessly. ¡°I need you.¡±He pulled away from me, and took a step back. He looked down at me, and I saw the desire in his eyes.

    ¡°Take me,¡± I whispered. He reached down and picked me up, carrying me to the bedroom. Heid me on the bed. My eyes were locked onto his.

    When he was done, he stood over me, looking at me with hunger in his eyes. He leaned down and kissed me again, hard this time, his tongue pushing into my mouth.

    I wrapped my arms around his neck and pulled him closer.

    Our bodies pressed together and I felt his hardness against me. He broke the kiss and stepped back. ¡°Are you sure?¡± he asked.

    ¡°Yes,¡± I replied. ¡°Then let¡¯s do it.¡± With that, he grabbed my legs and pulled them up until my ass was in the air. He leaned forward and licked the length of my slit.

    He inserted one finger into my pussy, then another. I moaned louder than before and pushed my hips toward him. He slid his fingers out and put them to my mouth. I sucked on them, tasting myself.

    ¡°Mmmm,¡± I purred, ¡°I taste good.¡± He smiled and leaned down to kiss me again. I could feel my juices flowing from my pussy and coating his fingers. He put them back in me, and I moaned again.

    ¡°Please fuck me,¡± I begged. ¡°I want to feel you inside me.¡± He smiled again and positioned himself between my legs. I spread my legs further apart, allowing him ess to my pussy.

    He ced the tip of his cock at my opening, and I thrust my hips upward, begging for him to enter me. He gave me what I wanted, sliding his entire length into me in one quick motion.

    I gasped, and he moaned. I wrapped my arms around his shoulders, pulling him into me deeper. He began to move his hips, fucking me faster and harder. I wrapped my legs around his waist and pulled him closer.

    ¡°Harder, I demanded. He obeyed, mming his cock into me over and over. I moaned loudly, and he began to pick up speed. His balls pped against my ass and I knew he was close.

    I tried to pull him even deeper inside me, but he held himself still. ¡°Cum for me,¡± I begged. ¡°Fill me with your cum.¡± He mmed into me onest time and groaned loudly.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± Sebastian finally whispered, his voice trembling with emotion. ¡°I didn¡¯t mean to startle you in the bathroom.¡±Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.

    I smiled, my heart still racing but in a different way now. ¡°It¡¯s okay,¡± I replied, my voice just as shaky. ¡°Sometimes surprises can be¡­ nice.¡±

    He smiled. A cute boyish smile.

    We shared a quiet moment, wrapped in each other¡¯s arms, finding sce in the unspoken words that hung in the air.

 36

    Los Angeles, Sebastian

    I watched Mia with a sense of contentment as she devoured a corn dog. We were standing in line at Starbucks, waiting to get our much-needed morning coffee fix. Being with Mia felt like the most natural thing in the world, and every moment spent in her presence was a reminder of just how right it all felt.

    As she indulged in her corn dog, Mia turned to me with a warm smile. ¡°Do you want some?¡± she asked, holding the box of corn dogs in front of me. I shook my head gently, knowing that corn dogs weren¡¯t really my thing. ¡°No, thanks,¡± I replied with a grin.

    I couldn¡¯t help but notice the twinkle in her eyes as she enjoyed her snack. Her enthusiasm was contagious, and I found myself drawn to her even more. ¡°Is that all you¡¯re going to eat today?¡± I asked, furrowing my brows in concern.

    Mia chuckled, herughter a delightful melody in the early morning air. ¡°I¡¯m actually craving a juicy beef burger,¡± she admitted, her eyes lighting up at the thought.

    A mischievous grin tugged at my lips. ¡°McDonald¡¯s?¡± I suggested, already knowing the answer.

    Her eyes sparkled with excitement as she nodded enthusiastically. ¡°Yes, McDonald¡¯s would be perfect,¡± she replied, her enthusiasm infectious.

    Finally, our turn came to order our drinks at Starbucks. The drive-thrune had been unusually long that morning, but it had given us ample time to chat and enjoy each other¡¯spany. ¡°What are you going to drink?¡± I asked, ncing at the menu board.

    Mia¡¯s face lit up as she made her choice. ¡°An iced vanitte,¡± she dered, her voice filled with anticipation.

    I ced our order, trying to hide my own eagerness for the coffee that would soon grace my taste buds. With our drinks secured, we exited the Starbucks drive-thru and made our way to the nearby McDonald¡¯s drive-thru, where the promise of a beef burger awaited.

    Once at McDonald¡¯s, we quickly ced our order. I opted for in fries, while Mia eagerly requested her beloved beef burger. The smell of freshly cooked food filled the car as we waited for our meal to be prepared.

    As we parked and unwrapped our delicious treasures, Mia couldn¡¯t contain her excitement. ¡°This is so good,¡± she eximed between bites of her burger.

    I watched her with affectionate amusement, my heart swelling at her sheer joy. She offered me a bite of her burger, and I couldn¡¯t resist tasting the happiness that radiated from her.

    ¡°You know,¡± she began between bites, ¡°I used to eat burgers every day when I was in college.¡±

    I chuckled, the image of a younger Mia devouring burgers day after day forming in my mind. ¡°Really?¡± I asked, genuinely curious.

    Mia nodded, her eyes glinting with nostalgia. ¡°Yep,¡± she admitted, ¡°I was a burger fanatic back then. It was cheap, filling, and perfect for a busy student¡¯s budget.¡±

    ¡°Sounds like a delicious college life,¡± I remarked with a grin. ¡°I, on the other hand, was a Ramen guy.¡±

    Mia¡¯sughter filled the car, a sweet and melodic sound that warmed my heart. ¡°Ah, Ramen,¡± she said, still giggling. ¡°The ssic college staple. I can¡¯t me you for that choice.¡±

    Iughed.

    ¡°What do you want to do now?¡± I asked, turning to Mia as we sat in the car. The possibilities for our day together seemed endless, and I was eager to hear her suggestion.

    Mia shrugged her shoulders, a contemtive expression on her face. ¡°I don¡¯t know, maybe hit the mall?¡± she suggested, her eyes bright with anticipation.

    ¡°That¡¯s a good idea,¡± I replied, a smile forming on my lips as I started the car and backed out of our parking spot. The mall was always a great way to spend time together, exploring shops, trying out new things, and enjoying each other¡¯spany.

    As we drove, Mia¡¯s expression shifted, and she hesitated. ¡°How about our stalker, though?¡± she asked, her voiceced with nervousness.

    I reached over to gently hold her hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze. ¡°Don¡¯t worry,¡± I assured her, my voice calm and steady. ¡°You¡¯re safe with me.¡±

    Mia¡¯s anxiousness seemed to dissipate as she looked into my eyes. I brought her hand to my lips and nted a soft kiss on her knuckles. A warm smile spread across her face, and it was clear that my words had helped ease her worries.

    Once we arrived at the mall, we wandered through its bustling corridors, exploring shops of all kinds. Mia¡¯s eyes sparkled with curiosity as she stared at a ring disyed in the window of Tiffany and Co. I made a mental note to search it upter, secretly nning a surprise.

    We ventured into Victoria¡¯s Secret, Forever Twenty One, and Chanel, each store offering its own unique treasures. It was a delightful mix of window shopping and making mental wish lists.

    After satisfying our curiosity and enjoying the retail therapy, we stumbled upon a game arcade. The vibrant lights and the sounds of games being yed beckoned us inside.

    Mia¡¯s eyes widened with excitement as she scanned the array of games. ¡°Let¡¯s try this,¡± she suggested, pointing to a colorful w machine filled with plush toys.

    I chuckled, feeling a yful spirit take over. ¡°Sure thing, but I¡¯ll warn you, my w game skills are legendary,¡± I teased, shing a confident grin.N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.

    Mia rolled her eyes with a smirk. ¡°We¡¯ll see about that,¡± she retorted, stepping up to the machine with determination.

    We took turns, each trying our hand at capturing a stuffed animal. The w descended with a hopeful grasp, but it was clear that the odds were stacked against us. After a few failed attempts, we couldn¡¯t help but burst intoughter.

    ¡°This is impossible!¡± Mia eximed, shaking her head as another plush toy slipped from the grasp of the w.

    I grinned and tried my luck once more, determined to prove my legendary skills. To my surprise, the w managed to secure a fluffy teddy bear, and I proudly presented it to Mia.

    She apuded me with mock admiration. ¡°I guess your skills aren¡¯t too shabby after all,¡± she conceded, epting the teddy bear with a smile.

    As we walked out of the mall Mia looked at me and asked, ¡°what are we?¡±

    I looked at her. ¡°We are husband and wife.¡±

 37

    New York, Mia

    I was back in New York with Be, having relocated to another apartment after the dramatic shootout at the old one. As I settled onto the couch, I began filling Be in on everything that had transpired on the West Coast.

    ¡°That¡¯s so insane,¡± Be remarked, her eyes wide with disbelief as I recounted the chaotic events. ¡°How crazy can one person be?¡±

    I nodded in agreement, munching on a handful of salted peanuts. ¡°I know, right? It was like something out of a movie.¡±Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.

    Be leaned in closer, her curiosity piqued. ¡°So now you¡¯re Mrs. Thornton?¡± she asked yfully, wiggling her eyebrows at me.

    I couldn¡¯t help butugh at her teasing. ¡°Well, technically,¡± I replied, rolling my eyes. ¡°But it¡¯s not as morous as it sounds.¡±

    Just then, there was a knock on the door, and Be rose to answer it. To our delight, Sophia stood in the doorway, holding a cheesecake and chocte slushies.

    ¡°Ooh, more food,¡± I eximed, my eyes lighting up as I lunged to grab the cheesecake from her.

    Sophia grinned, her eyes twinkling with mischief. ¡°Girl, I heard you got married,¡± she said, yfully nudging me. ¡°Wee to the family.¡±

    I chuckled, taking a bite of the delectable cheesecake. ¡°Haha, yeah,¡± I replied. ¡°More like a forced marriage.¡±

    Sophia winked at me. ¡°Hey, at least he¡¯s handsome and rich,¡± she teased, wiggling her eyebrows. ¡°A win is a win.¡±

    I rolled my eyes at her yful banter, secretly relishing the sweetness of the cheesecake. My thoughts drifted to Sebastian, who had texted me earlier, mentioning that he was stuck in a meeting. The man had a relentless work schedule.

    ¡°When are you going to work again?¡± Sophia asked, steering the conversation back to me.

    ¡°Tomorrow,¡± I replied, setting aside my cheesecake.

    ¡°You don¡¯t have a new bodyguard?¡± Sophia asked. ¡°I thought Sebastian would make sure of it.¡±

    ¡°He installed cameras everywhere in the new apartment.¡± Be said.

    Sophia raised an eyebrow, clearly curious about the change. ¡°Mmh, okay,¡± she said, sipping her chocte slushie.

    We continued chatting, catching up on life and sharing stories, the camaraderie among us feeling like a warm embrace.

    Suddenly, my phone rang, the sound of an iing call disrupting our conversation. I nced at the screen, and my heart skipped a beat when I saw that it was an unknown number. It was a feeling I couldn¡¯t quite ce-anticipation mixed with apprehension.

    I hesitated for a moment, my friends watching me curiously. With a deep breath, I answered the call, bringing the phone to my ear.

    ¡°Hello?¡± I said tentatively, unsure of who might be on the other end.

    As I answered the call, a cold shiver ran down my spine. The line crackled ominously, and I could feel my hands trembling with fear. My heart pounded loudly in my chest, drowning out everything else.

    ¡°Hello,¡± I repeated, my voice quivering this time. I was so scared, unable to shake the feeling that this could be the stalker again, invading my life once more.

    The silence on the other end was unnerving, stretching on for what felt like an eternity. And then, a familiar voice broke through, sending chills down my spine.

    ¡°You worthless girl,¡± the voice hissed, dripping with disdain. ¡°You¡¯re married to Sebastian now and think you¡¯re all that without inviting us? Your own parents? Your own father.¡±

    My breath caught in my throat as the voice continued,shing out at me with a cruelty that cut deep. ¡°Who do you think you are? You¡¯re such a worthless gold digger who doesn¡¯t think about her family. You¡¯re the only one who wants the money, huh!¡±

    Tears welled up in my eyes, my heart aching with every word that fell from my father¡¯s lips. The man who was supposed to protect and care for me was now hurling usations and venomous insults.

    Before I could find my voice, my father¡¯s icy tone sliced through the air once more. ¡°I pray that your baby will die! I pray that you will die! You need to suffer for everything you put us through! For every scandal you caused!¡±

    With those hateful words, he abruptly ended the call, leaving me trembling and utterly shattered. The tears flowed freely down my cheeks as I clutched the phone to my chest, my world unraveling around me.

    My mind was a whirlwind of confusion and pain. Could my own father be the stalker who had tormented me for so long? His words were filled with a rage and malice that seemed to go beyond anything I had ever known.

    Be and Sophia, sensing my distress, rushed to my side. They didn¡¯t need to ask questions; they simply enveloped me in their arms, offering their silent support as I cried.

    The weight of my father¡¯s words bore down on me, a cruel reminder of the tumultuous rtionship I had with my family. It was a painful truth I had tried to escape, but it had caught up with me in the most horrifying way imaginable.

    As the tears flowed, I couldn¡¯t help but wonder if my father¡¯s anger and resentment had driven him to be the stalker, to take actions that threatened my life and happiness. It was a terrifying thought, and I felt a sickening mix of fear, sorrow, and betrayal.

    Be and Sophia held me tightly, offering the sce of their presence, a reminder that I was not alone in this ordeal. It was a moment of vulnerability and shared pain, but it also strengthened the bond between us.

    Hours passed as we sat together, the weight of the call still heavy in the air.

    In the midst of my turmoil, Be whispered words of encouragement, reminding me that I was strong and resilient. Sophia offered her unwavering support, assuring me that she would stand by my side through whatever challengesy ahead.

 38

    New York, Mia

    I was getting ready for my ultrasound appointment, carefully applying a touch of lip gloss and slipping into afortable yet stylish dress. Sebastian, unfortunately, couldn¡¯t join me for this important moment as he had a crucial meeting to attend. However, he promised to be with meter in the evening to spend the weekend together, which filled me with anticipation.

    As I looked at myself in the mirror, a wave of excitement washed over me. I couldn¡¯t help but feel a little giddy from the inside. Seeing how much my baby had grown since thest ultrasound was a prospect that filled me with boundless joy and wonder.

    ¡°Are you ready?¡± Be¡¯s voice floated into the room as she stepped inside. She had been a constant pir of support throughout this journey, and I was grateful to have her by my side for today¡¯s ultrasound.

    I smiled at her reflection in the mirror. ¡°Yes, I am,¡± I replied, a hint of nervousness mingling with my excitement. ¡°And thank you, Be, for being here with me.¡±

    Together, we made our way to the ultrasound appointment, chatting along the way to ease my nerves. When we arrived at the clinic, we were greeted by the same friendly nurse from my previous visits. Her warm demeanor instantly put me at ease.

    As Iy on the examination table, the nurse began the ultrasound procedure. The room filled with the soft, rhythmic sound of my baby¡¯s heartbeat, a reassuring andforting melody. I watched the screen with awe as the image of my growing child came into view.

    My baby seemed to be having a party in my stomach, moving and squirming with boundless energy. It was a mesmerizing sight, and I couldn¡¯t help but smile at the thought of the tiny life growing inside me.

    ¡°Healthy mama, healthy baby,¡± the nursemented, her words filling me with a sense of pride and gratitude. I nodded in agreement, feeling immensely thankful for the precious gift I was carrying.

    After the ultrasound appointment, Be and I decided to make the most of our day by indulging in some baby shopping. The prospect of preparing for the arrival of my child filled me with excitement and a touch of anxiety, but with Be by my side, I knew we would have a memorable and fun-filled day.

    We browsed through baby stores, marveling at the adorable tiny clothes, miniature shoes, and all the other baby essentials on disy. It was impossible not to feel a surge of maternal love and anticipation with each tiny onesie or plush toy we examined.

    As we strolled through the store, our banter filled the air, a delightful mix of excitement andughter.

    Be held up a tiny pair of baby booties with an amused grin. ¡°Look at these, they¡¯re so tiny. Can you believe you¡¯ll have little feet to put in these soon?¡±

    I chuckled, my heart swelling at the thought. ¡°I know, it¡¯s incredible. It¡¯s all bing so real now.¡±

    Be yfully poked a plush toy elephant. ¡°And what about this little guy? Should we get it for your future adventurer?¡±

    I considered the fluffy elephant with a smile. ¡°Absolutely. My baby¡¯s going to have a safari-themed nursery.¡±

    As we continued to explore the store, we picked out baby essentials and adorable outfits, our shopping bags gradually filling up.

    After our delightful baby shopping spree, Be and I decided to head to the food court to satisfy our cravings for some samosas and chicken biryani. The tantalizing aroma of spices and fried goodness wafted through the air as we approached the food stalls.

    As we settled down at a table with our tes of savory delights, we were immersed in the delightful scent of our food. I couldn¡¯t wait to dig in, but just as I was about to take my first bite, something caught my eye.

    Approaching us was a familiar figure, one that I hadn¡¯t expected to see here. ¡°What are you doing here, brother?¡± I asked in surprise, my eyes widening.Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.

    Be, always quick to assess the situation, chimed in. ¡°He¡¯s stalking us,¡± she used with a teasing smirk.

    Kieran, my mischievous and often cheeky brother, simply rolled his eyes at Be¡¯s usation. ¡°You¡¯re not that interesting enough, Church Bells,¡± he replied with a yful grin, using his affectionate nickname for her.

    Be retaliated by sticking her tongue out at him.¡±You¡¯re just jealous that I¡¯m named after a Disney princess,¡± she shot back, feigning superiority.

    Kieran pretended to ponder this for a moment, tapping his chin thoughtfully. ¡°Hmm, you might have a point there, Church Bells. But you know what I¡¯m definitely cooler than?¡±

    Be raised an eyebrow, intrigued. ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°I was about to get the chicken samosa from here,¡± he dered, a mischievous glint in his eyes, ¡°but I guess I can just steal yours.¡±

    Before Be could react, Kieran had swiped thest chicken samosa from her te with lightning speed. Her eyes narrowed at him in irritation, and she grabbed my water bottle.

    ¡°Hey, that¡¯s not fair!¡± I protested, my lips curving into a grin. With a flick of her wrist, she sent the water bottle flying toward Kieran¡¯s head.

    The water bottle made contact with a satisfying thud, and Kieran let out an exaggerated groan as he rubbed the spot where it had hit him. ¡°Auwch,¡± he groaned dramatically, casting an usatory nce in her direction.

    Be couldn¡¯t help but burst intoughter.  ¡°You two are like a couple of kids,¡± I remarked, shaking my head in amusement.

    As the afternoon sun painted warm hues across the food court, Kieran checked the time on his phone with a slightly apologetic expression. ¡°I hate to cut this short, but duty calls,¡± he announced, reluctantly preparing to leave.

    I looked at him with a mixture of disappointment and understanding. ¡°You¡¯re leaving already?¡± I questioned, hoping we could spend more time together.

    Be, always quick with a quip, chimed in with a mischievous smile. ¡°You just want to get back to work early because of your assistant and her deep cleavage outfits,¡± she teased, her eyes dancing with mischief.

    Kieran¡¯s eyebrows shot up in amusement as he turned to Be. ¡°Oh, really?¡± he retorted, a yful glint in his eyes. ¡°And how, my dear Church Bells, would you know about that?¡±

    Be leaned in closer, her tone conspiratorial. ¡°Let¡¯s just say I have my ways of gathering information,¡± she replied with a sly grin.

    Kieran chuckled, clearly enjoying the yful banter. ¡°Well, you¡¯ve piqued my curiosity,¡± he admitted, his tone light. ¡°But I think I¡¯ll leave the investigation to you.¡±

    Be leaned back in her chair, her yful grin never fading. ¡°Your secrets are safe with me,¡± she assured him, winking mischievously.

    Kieranughed heartily, clearly entertained by the exchange. ¡°You always keep things interesting, Church Bells,¡± he remarked, shaking his head in amusement. ¡°I¡¯ll see you both soon.¡±

    As Kieran gathered his belongings and prepared to make his exit, Be couldn¡¯t resist one final quip. ¡°Remember, Kieran,¡± she called out with a grin, ¡°work hard and keep an eye out for those deep cleavages. You never know what you might discover.¡±

    Kieranughed in response, shaking his head as he waved goodbye. ¡°You¡¯re incorrigible, Church Bells,¡± he called back, a fond smile on his face. ¡°Take care, both of you.¡±

    With Kieran¡¯s departure, Be and I were left with a sense of camaraderie and amusement. As we made our way out of the bustling food court, I turned to Be with a yful glint in my eye. ¡°So, Be,¡± I began, my tone conspiratorial, ¡°what¡¯s the real story behind Kieran¡¯s assistant?¡±

    Be chuckled, clearly relishing the opportunity to keep Kieran¡¯s secret alive. ¡°Well,¡± she replied with a wink, ¡°some mysteries are best left unsolved.¡±

 39

    New York, Sebastian

    My new mansion in New York was beyond my wildest expectations. It was a grand and luxurious abode that exuded elegance and charm at every turn. The sprawling estate boasted beautiful architecture, spacious rooms, and a backyard that felt like a private oasis.

    As I stood in front of the mirror, adjusting my tie and running a hand through my hair, my thoughts drifted to Mia. Today was an important day for her as she had her second ultrasound appointment. Regrettably, I couldn¡¯t be there for the appointment because of a work meeting that had been scheduled weeks in advance. However, I had promised her that I wouldnd in New York in the evening and take her out for a special dinner to celebrate the asion.

    Just a few days ago, Mia had confided in me about a painful phone call from her father. The hurt in her voice was evident as she recounted her difficult childhood and the fact that her father didn¡¯t love her. It was a revtion that shook me to my core, and I couldn¡¯t fathom how someone could be so callous toward their own child.

    With one final adjustment of my tie, I made my way out of the bedroom, ready to head to Mia¡¯s apartment. Today, I had decided to be the one behind the wheel, giving me a chance to soak in the sights of New York City.

    As I stepped outside, the cool evening air greeted me, and I headed toward the car waiting for me in the driveway. The drive to Mia¡¯s apartment was a pleasant one, and I couldn¡¯t help but admire the city¡¯s bustling energy.

    When I arrived at her apartment building, I parked the car and made my way to her door. I knocked, and it was Be, Mia¡¯s close friend and confidante, who greeted me.

    ¡°Good evening, Mr. Thornton,¡± Be greeted me with a warm smile before calling out to Mia, ¡°Mrs. Thornton, your baby daddy is here!¡±

    I stifled a chuckle at Be¡¯s yful announcement. She had a way of adding a dose of humor to every situation, and I appreciated her presence in Mia¡¯s life. Be¡¯s support and friendship meant the world to Mia, and by extension, to me as well.N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner.

    Momentster, the door swung open, and Mia appeared with a radiant smile on her face. Seeing her filled me with a sense of joy and anticipation. ¡°Sebastian,¡± she greeted me with a loving smile, her eyes sparkling with happiness.

    I couldn¡¯t help but smile back at her, the sight of her always warming my heart. ¡°Mia,¡± I replied, my voice filled with affection, ¡°how was the appointment?¡±

    Mia¡¯s smile grew even brighter as she stepped closer, allowing me to wrap my arms around her in a warm embrace. ¡°It was amazing,¡± she eximed, her voice filled with excitement. ¡°We got to see our baby again, and everything looks perfect.¡±

    I felt a surge of happiness and relief wash over me at her words. Knowing that our baby was healthy and thriving was a source of immensefort and joy. ¡°I¡¯m so d to hear that,¡± I whispered, pressing a gentle kiss to Mia¡¯s forehead.

    Be, always attuned to our emotions, chimed in with her usual wit. ¡°Well, aren¡¯t you two just the perfect picture of happiness?¡± she teased, her eyes twinkling mischievously.

    Mia giggled, pulling away from our embrace but keeping her hand securely in mine. ¡°We are,¡± she replied, her gaze filled with affection as she looked up at me.

    As we made our way back to the car, Mia filled me in on the details of the ultrasound appointment, sharing every moment of joy and excitement. Hearing her speak with such enthusiasm about our growing family filled me with an indescribable sense of contentment.

    As we drove to the restaurant for our celebratory dinner, the evening lights of New York City glittered around us. I couldn¡¯t help but think about how our lives were changing, how Mia and our unborn child had brought an incredible sense of love and purpose into my world.

    The evening had taken on an air of elegance as Mia and I arrived at Restaurant Daniel, one of New York City¡¯s finest dining establishments. I handed my keys to the valet, and as we stepped out of the car, I took Mia¡¯s hand in mine, ready to share a memorable evening together.

    Having made reservations well in advance, I confidently approached the reception desk. The maitre d¡¯ recognized my name immediately, a testament to the reputation that had preceded me. With a polite nod, she guided us to our table, which was strategically positioned beneath a breathtaking chandelier, casting a warm and romantic glow.

    Mia, adorned in a champagne-colored dress that gracefully revealed her bare back and featured a daring high slit, looked absolutely stunning. Her hair was elegantly styled in a sleek bun, entuating her natural beauty. Every gaze in the room seemed to gravitate toward her, but tonight, she was mine to admire.

    As we settled into our seats, a waiter appeared with a bottle of chilled champagne, his practiced hands expertly pouring the effervescent liquid into our crystal flutes. The golden bubbles danced upward, and I couldn¡¯t help but smile at the promise of a special evening.

    However, the surprises were far from over. With a moment of anticipation, I reached into my pocket and retrieved a small velvet box. It was a moment I had been waiting for, a moment to rectify a previous oversight.

    Mia¡¯s eyes widened with curiosity as the boxnded on the table before her. ¡°What is it?¡± she asked, her gaze shifting between me and the box.

    ¡°Open it,¡± I urged, my voice filled with warmth and anticipation.

    Mia delicately lifted the lid of the box, and as her eyes met the contents, her breath caught in her throat. ¡°Oh my god,¡± she gasped, her voice tinged with wonder, ¡°it¡¯s the same one I saw at Tiffany¡¯s. It¡¯s so beautiful.¡±

    Inside the boxy a stunning diamond engagement ring, its brilliance rivaled only by the sparkle in Mia¡¯s eyes. The ring was an exquisite work of art, a testament to my desire to make up for the simplicity of our wedding rings, which had been an unnned and hurried affair.

    I couldn¡¯t help but smile as I watched Mia admire the ring, her fingers lightly grazing the glistening gemstone. ¡°I saw you eyeing it that day in Los Angeles,¡± I admitted, my voice soft and filled with affection. ¡°I wanted to make sure you had the ring of your dreams.¡±

    Mia¡¯s eyes met mine, shimmering with gratitude and love. ¡°Sebastian, it¡¯s perfect,¡± she whispered, her voice filled with emotion.

    I reached across the table, taking her hand in mine and gently slipping the ring onto her finger. The moment the ring graced her hand, it seemed toe to life, reflecting the love and promise that existed between us.

 40

    New York, MiaN?velDrama.Org: text ? owner.

    The busy day at my office had finallye to a close. Sebastian, having visited me during his brief stay in New York, had left my office after a delightful lunch together. He had brought me a delicious tuna sandwich with crispy fries and a refreshing iced carameltte. His thoughtful gesture never ceased to warm my heart.

    Today had been a day filled with meetings and client consultations, but the thought of the evening ahead buoyed my spirits. With just two clients left on my schedule, I knew I would be able to leave the office early and enjoy a quiet evening.

    As I attended to myst client, ensuring that all their concerns were addressed, my phone chimed with a text message. I nced at the screen, and it was Be, who had sent the message. She informed me that she wouldn¡¯t be returning home tonight as her parents were hosting a barbecue, and she nned to stay over at their ce.

    With Be¡¯s absence, I realized I would have the entire apartment to myself for the night. It was a rare opportunity for solitude and rxation, a chance to unwind after a long day at work.

    Two days ago, after our memorable dinner date, Sebastian had taken me to his new mansion in New York. He had expressed his desire for it to be the ce where our baby would grow up, a gesture that had touched my heart deeply. Although we had yet to discuss the finer details of where our child would ultimately call home, for now, New York was where my career thrived, and it seemed like the logical choice.

    However, we both understood thatpromise and flexibility would be essential as we navigated this new chapter in our lives. Our conversations about the future were ongoing, and we knew that we had a lifetime to address all theplexities and nuances.

    For the moment, we were content to savor the honeymoon stage of our rtionship. Considering how swiftly our love had blossomed and how life had propelled us forward, it felt like a precious luxury to take things slow and enjoy every moment together.

    As I wrapped up with my final client, ensuring that they left my office with smiles of satisfaction, I tidied up my workspace. The soft glow of evening light filtered through my office windows, casting a warm ambiance that signaled the end of the workday.

    With my office now in order, I gathered my belongings and headed out. The streets of New York City were bustling with the energy of the evening rush, and I joined the flow of people making their way home.

    With my stomach gently reminding me that it was dinner time, I decided to stop at Chipotle, a familiar andforting choice. I ordered a delicious bowl filled with my favorite ingredients, savoring the vors as I made my way back to the apartment.

    The walk home was a peaceful one, the city¡¯s familiar sights and sounds offering a sense offort and belonging. As I approached my apartment building, I couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of anticipation for the quiet evening thaty ahead.

    Inside the apartment, I enjoyed my dinner at a leisurely pace, taking the time to savor each bite. With Be away for the night, I had the luxury of solitude, and I relished the opportunity to unwind and reflect on the day¡¯s events.

    After finishing dinner and enjoying the solitude of my apartment, I decided to tackle the household chores. With a sense of purpose, I began by doing the dishes, the warm water and soap suds offering aforting routine that helped clear my mind.

    Once the kitchen was spotless, I headed toward the bathroom, ready for a rxing shower. The steamy water cascaded over me, washing away the stresses of the day. I indulged in a bit of self-care, applying my favorite skincare products, scrubbing my body, and taking my time to ensure I felt refreshed.

    With my skin feeling invigorated and my body rejuvenated, I turned my attention to dental hygiene, diligently brushing my teeth until they felt clean and fresh. The bathroom was filled with the soft hum of my own contented humming as I pampered myself.

    As I emerged from the shower, wrapped in a plush towel, I selected afortable set of pajamas and plucked a book from my drawer. Reading has always been a cherished pastime, a way to escape into different worlds and stories. Tonight, I was in the mood for a good book.

    I settled into my cozy bed, the soft glow of a bedsidemp casting a warm pool of light on the pages of my chosen novel. The story began to weave its magic, drawing me in with its characters and adventures. As I read, time seemed to slip away, and I lost myself in the narrative.

    Gradually, a pleasant sense of fatigue began to wash over me, a sign that it was time to bid farewell to the fictional world and embrace the realm of dreams. I closed the book, gently cing it on my nightstand, and sent a quick goodnight message to Sebastian, my heart fluttering with affection for him.

    However, just as I settled under the covers, seeking the sce of slumber, a sudden disturbance shattered the peaceful stillness of the night. A loud bang echoed through the apartment, jolting me from my drowsy state.

    My heart raced as I listened intently, my senses on high alert. There were unmistakable footsteps, someone moving through the apartment. Panic welled up within me as I considered the chilling possibility that the intruder could be the stalker who had haunted my thoughts.

    The room was cast in darkness, and the realization that someone had invaded my sanctuary filled me with a sense of vulnerability. My heart thudded in my chest, and my mind raced as I tried to assess the situation. What if it was the person who had been tormenting me?

    Summoning every ounce of courage, I reached for the nearest object, ready to defend myself if necessary. My footsteps were as quiet as a whisper as I crept out of my room, determined not to be a victim in my own home.

    In the living room, the illumination of a light startled me. I distinctly remembered turning it off before retiring to bed. A shiver ran down my spine, and I ruled out the possibility of Be being the source of the noise  she wouldn¡¯t have made such amotion.

    With my heart pounding, I stealthily made my way toward the living room, my senses honed for any sign of the intruder¡¯s presence. My apprehension grew, but my resolve remain unshaken. No one was going to vite my safety, especially not in my own home.

    As I reached the entrance to the living room, my nerves taut with anticipation, I mustered all the courage within me and sprang into action. In a burst of adrenaline-fueled bravery, I jumped out and let out a piercing scream, confronting the intruder with unyielding determination.

 41

    New York, Mia

    The moment I saw the intruder, and he saw me, our screams pierced the silence of the night, creating a discord of terror and surprise. My heart raced as I prepared to strike the intruder with the object in my hand, a seemingly harmless hairbrush. But when the dim light revealed his face, my heart plummeted. It was Kieran.

    Wide-eyed and startled, Kieran stood before me, an expression of disbelief etched across his face. My hand, once poised to strike, now trembled with the realization of my mistaken attack. ¡°What are you doing here at this hour?!¡± I eximed, a mixture of relief and frustration in my voice.

    Kieran blinked, clearly taken aback. ¡°Why are you holding a hairbrush?¡± he inquired, his voice tinged with confusion.

    I sighed, feeling the heat of embarrassment rush to my cheeks. ¡°I¡¯m here because Be told me to check up on you and gave me her key,¡± Kieran exined. ¡°I thought you were an intruder. You could¡¯ve called me,¡± I retorted, berating myself for my overzealous reaction.

    Kieran defended himself, his tone growing defensive. ¡°I did call you, and you didn¡¯t pick up.¡±

    The realization of my phone¡¯s status struck me like a wave of realization. I had inadvertently set it on ¡°Do Not Disturb.¡± Mypse in judgment had led to this chaotic encounter, and I could only shake my head at the folly of it all.

    Leaving the hairbrush aside, I retreated to my room to retrieve my phone. cing it on the charger, I took a moment to collect myself and to ensure that there were no more surprises in store.

    When I returned to the living room, Kieran was sitting on the couch, a bag of chips and my favorite juice, Capri Sun, by his side. He shed a friendly smile as I sat down beside him. I couldn¡¯t help but reach for a handful of chips; they were a weed distraction from the earlier fright.

    Kieran, still dressed in his business attire, exined that he hade straight from work. ¡°It was a busy day,¡± he remarked, recalling the hectic schedule he¡¯d endured. ¡°Dad invited our Chinese associate for a meeting without telling me, and I had tost-minute prepare everything.¡±

    I nodded, appreciating the challenges he faced in his professional life. Our conversation flowed naturally, a blend of catching up and reflecting on our shared past. Kieran suddenly ventured into a fond recollection of our childhood adventures.

    ¡°Hey, remember how we used to build forts in our room?¡± he asked, a glint of nostalgia in his eyes.

    A smile spread across my face as I was transported back to those cherished memories. ¡°Of course, I remember,¡± I replied with a hint ofughter. ¡°We used to take every nket and pillow we could find and build the most borate forts, and we¡¯d spend hours ying inside them.¡±

    Kieran chuckled, clearly enjoying the trip down memoryne. ¡°And thosete-night ghost stories we¡¯d tell each other,¡± he added. ¡°We¡¯d terrify ourselves to the point where we¡¯d be too scared to get up for a ss of water.¡±

    We both shared a heartyugh, remembering those nights when our imaginations ran wild

    As Kieran and I continued our heartfelt conversation, he couldn¡¯t help but express his amazement. ¡°I can¡¯t believe my baby sister is pregnant,¡± he mused, his tone filled with a mix of wonder and amusement. ¡°And in such an unusual way too. You¡¯re also married.¡±

    I grinned at his words, my heart warmed by his reaction. ¡°I know, it¡¯s all been quite the whirlwind,¡± I replied, my eyes sparkling with a mix of happiness and nostalgia. ¡°I¡¯m Mrs. Thornton now,¡± I added, showing off the delicate ring that Sebastian had given me.

    Kieran¡¯s eyes focused on the ring, and he reached out to inspect it more closely. ¡°That¡¯s beautiful,¡± he remarked, his voice tinged with genuine appreciation. ¡°It¡¯s so shiny.¡±

    I beamed at hispliment, my fingers lightly tracing the gleaming gemstone. The ring was a symbol of the love andmitment that Sebastian and I shared, a testament to the unexpected but profound connection that had formed between us.

    After a brief silence filled with a sense of contentment, I decided to broach a more serious topic, one that had been weighing on my mind. ¡°So, I¡¯ve been thinking about my future and that of the baby,¡± I began, my gaze meeting Kieran¡¯s with unwavering determination.

    Kieran¡¯s expression shifted, his features reflecting his readiness to engage in a deeper conversation. ¡°Yes?¡± he encouraged, his curiosity evident.

    I took a deep breath, the gravity of my words weighing on me. ¡°I know I haven¡¯t discussed this yet with Sebastian, but I think he will agree on it too,¡± I continued, trying to convey the importance of the matter. The recent upheavals in my life had prompted me to contemte the future with greater urgency, particrly considering the drama and threats that had be all too familiar.

    ¡°I was thinking,¡± I said, choosing my words with care, ¡°if you wanted to be our baby¡¯s godfather.¡±

    Kieran¡¯s reaction was instantaneous. His eyes softened with a myriad of emotions as he processed my request. ¡°Really? You want me to be the godfather?¡± he inquired, his voice filled with a mixture of surprise and genuine appreciation.

    I couldn¡¯t help but smile, a rush of warmth enveloping me. ¡°Yes, yes,¡± I confirmed, my voice filled with a quiet but unwavering resolve. The prospect of Kieran bing our child¡¯s godfather held great significance for me.

    Kieran didn¡¯t hesitate. He pulled me into a tight, affectionate hug, his arms providing a sense offort and assurance. ¡°I would love to fulfill that role,¡± he dered, his words carrying the weight of hismitment and love.Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.

    In that moment, wrapped in Kieran¡¯s warm and reassuring embrace, I couldn¡¯t help but feel a profound sense of happiness. It was a happiness tinged with the knowledge that, despite the challenges and uncertainties that had beset my life, I had the unwavering support of my brother.

    Kieran¡¯s eptance of my request to be our baby¡¯s godfather was more than just a symbolic gesture; it was a testament to the strength of our family bonds. I knew that my child would be well cared for, loved, and protected with Kieran by its side. It was aforting thought, one that filled my heart with gratitude.

    ¡°With everything going on right now, I want to be prepared for everything,¡± I admitted, my voiceced with sincerity. The threats and dangers that had surrounded me had made me acutely aware of the need to n for the future, to ensure that my child would be safe and cherished.

    Kieran gazed at me with a reassuring smile, his eyes reflecting a deep sense of care. ¡°Nothing will happen to you or the baby, sis,¡± he stated, his voice carrying a strong conviction. ¡°You are surrounded by loving people, and we are all here to protect you.¡±

 42

    Los Angeles, Sebastian

    As I stepped out of the office, the weight of the day¡¯s meetings and responsibilities still lingering in my thoughts, I couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of resignation. I was on my way to my parents¡¯ house for a family dinner, and while the prospect of spending time with my loved ones was generally appealing, I couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that there might be more to this gathering than meets the eye.

    I adjusted my tie with a sigh, slipping into the waiting car that would transport me to my childhood home. The driver, experienced and discreet, navigated the familiar streets with ease. The Los Angeles skyline passed by outside my window, but my thoughts were elsewhere. I missed Mia, more with each passing day, and I longed for her presence by my side.

    A part of me wished she would consider relocating to LA, but I knew that such a decision would beplex ande with its own set of challenges. Mia had her own life, her career, and a world she was deeply rooted in. I couldn¡¯t ask her to make such a sacrifice for me, and I respected her independence and aspirations. Still, the thought of a future together weighed on my mind, and I knew that one day we would need to have a serious conversation about where our child should grow up.

    The car rolled to a stop as we pulled into my parents¡¯ driveway. I could already see signs of the gathering from the number of cars parked along the curb. Patrick and his wife, Sophia, were in town, and I knew that family dinners during such asions often served as a cover for discussions and catch-ups.

    I exited the car, straightened my attire onest time, and made my way to the front door. I knocked, and it didn¡¯t take long for the door to open, revealing the familiar andforting surroundings of my childhood home.

    My brother, Patrick, stood on the other side of the door, his face breaking into a warm smile as he weed me. ¡°Sebby, good to see you,¡± he greeted, embracing me in a brief but heartfelt hug.

    ¡°Patty,¡± I greeted jokingly. I know he hated that nickname. ¡°Have you found anything?¡± I whispered to him. ¡°We¡¯re close.¡± He said. ¡°But not yet.¡±

    As my mother approached, her warm smile lighting up her face, she extended her arms to envelop both Patrick and me in a loving embrace. ¡°My handsome boys,¡± she eximed, her voice filled with maternal affection. We returned her hug, cherishing the familiarity andfort of her presence.

    ¡°Come, let¡¯s go to the kitchen,¡± she suggested, guiding us toward the heart of the home where so many family gatherings had taken ce. We followed her willingly, drawn by the anticipation of another family dinner.

    Upon entering the kitchen, I noticed a young woman sitting beside my mother, her presence unfamiliar to me. She appeared to be a few years younger than me, and I couldn¡¯t help but wonder about her connection to our family. The prospect of guests during our family dinner was nothing out of the ordinary, but there was a sense of intrigue surrounding her presence.

    My mother, with her characteristic warmth and hospitality, invited us to take our seats at the table. ¡°Let¡¯s have dinner, and then we¡¯ll talk,¡± she suggested, her eyes twinkling with an unspoken secret. My father, his expression calm andposed, nodded in agreement. It was clear that this dinner would not be without its discussions and revtions.

    The dining table was adorned with a variety of dishes, a testament to my mother¡¯s culinary skills. There was a delectable spread of bava, creamy mashed potatoes, sulent steaks, tender chicken tenders, and a medley of steamed broli and asparagus. The assortment of vors and textures held the promise of a delightful feast.

    Before we began our meal, my mother led us in a brief prayer, a moment of reflection and gratitude. The atmosphere was filled with an air of familiarity and warmth, a testament to the cherished traditions that had been passed down through generations.

    As we dove into the delicious dishes, the conversation flowed naturally. My father turned to Patrick, inquiring about his work. ¡°How¡¯s work?¡± he asked, his tone conveying genuine interest.

    Patrick took a moment to chew his food, savoring the vors, before responding. ¡°Hectic,¡± he admitted, a hint of exhaustion in his voice. ¡°But I like the New York department more than the LA one.¡±

    My mother joined the conversation. ¡°That¡¯s nice to hear,¡± she remarked, her voice filled with maternal pride. She then turned her attention to me, her gaze filled with warmth and concern. ¡°How¡¯s Mia? Is she doing okay with the pregnancy and all?¡±

    I couldn¡¯t help but smile as I thought of Mia. Her strength and resilience had never ceased to amaze me. ¡°She¡¯s doing amazing,¡± I replied, a sense of pride and admiration evident in my voice. ¡°Mia¡¯s handling everything with grace, and we¡¯re both looking forward to the future.¡±

    My mother¡¯s words hung in the air, casting a heavy shadow over the cheerful atmosphere of the dinner table. The once-lively conversation fell into an awkward silence as her statement sent shockwaves through the room.N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.

    ¡°Future?¡± she repeated, her eyes fixed on me with a peculiar expression. ¡°He said future.¡±

    I was taken aback by her sudden change in tone and focus. ¡°Yes, future,¡± I replied, my confusion growing. I exchanged nces with my father, trying to make sense of the situation.

    My mother couldn¡¯t contain her amusement, and herughter rippled through the room. ¡°What¡¯s so funny?¡± I asked, bewildered by the unexpected turn of events.

    Herughter continued, but there was an unsettling undertone to it. ¡°There¡¯s no future with you and Mia,¡± she rified, her voiceced with an unusual certainty.

    The room was filled with a palpable tension as her words hung in the air. Sophia and Patrick, equally perplexed, exchanged looks with each other and with me. My mother¡¯s promation had thrown us all off bnce.

    ¡°Mia is his wife, Mom, what are you talking about?¡± Patrick questioned, trying to make sense of her statement.

    My mother shook her head, her gaze unfaltering. ¡°She¡¯s your wife for now,¡± she insisted. ¡°After she gets that baby, you will divorce her, take the baby, so you and Amanda can raise it together.¡± She beckoned to the girl who sat next to her.

    I couldn¡¯t believe what I was hearing. My mother¡¯s words were not only shocking but deeply hurtful. It was as if she was proposing a heartless scheme, something that went against everything I believed in.

    ¡°Mom, are you out of your mind?¡± I protested, my voice edged with anger. ¡°Mia is the baby¡¯s mother and my wife. Why would I raise my child with a stranger?¡±

    My mother remained undeterred, her conviction unwavering. ¡°Amanda is not a stranger,¡± she argued, gesturing toward the girl who was nervously fiddling with her napkin. ¡°She¡¯s the Pastor¡¯s daughter, and she would raise the baby like a good Christian woman. That girl, Mia, is not good for you.¡±

    I was stunned. The audacity of my mother¡¯s words left me speechless. This dinner had taken a dark turn, and I couldn¡¯t fathom the implications of what she was suggesting.

    ¡°You married us,¡± I hissed, my frustration mounting. ¡°And now you want me to divorce her?!¡±

    My mother¡¯s response only deepened my anger and disbelief. ¡°You two are married because she¡¯s with child. But once that baby is born, you can leave her and take the baby with you. I bet she doesn¡¯t even want it.¡±

    The room seemed to close in on me as her words settled, and my heart ached with the audacity of the situation. No one would speak about Mia in such a callous manner, especially regarding our unborn child.

    I couldn¡¯t sit at the table any longer. The injustice of my mother¡¯s words was unbearable, and I could feel my anger rising. Without a word, I pushed my chair back and stood up, tossing the napkin onto my te.

    ¡°I¡¯m done here,¡± I dered, my voice sharp with anger as I stormed out of the house.

 43

    New York, Mia

    As I sat in the kitchen, watching Be skillfully prepare stir-fried noodles with teriyaki chicken, a wave of nostalgia washed over us. Be couldn¡¯t help butugh as she stirred the sizzling noodles in the pan, the memory of her first attempt at the dish still vivid in her mind.

    ¡°Remember the first time I tried to make this?¡± she asked, herughter filling the room. ¡°And I burned the noodles?¡±

    I couldn¡¯t help but chuckle, recalling the chaotic evening. ¡°And you swore that you would never cook again,¡± I replied, a smile ying at the corners of my lips.

    Ourughter filled the kitchen, and for a moment, it felt as if time had stood still. The past had been filled with its fair share of adventures and misadventures, and the memory of Be¡¯s noodle mishap was one that would forever remain etched in our shared history.

    Be couldn¡¯t resist sharing another amusing anecdote, one that had us both in stitches. ¡°Kieran told me about that night he came into the apartment, and you wanted to attack him with a hairbrush.¡±

    I shook my head in fond amusement at the memory. ¡°I thought he was an intruder,¡± I admitted with a chuckle, remembering the adrenaline-fueled mix-up.

    Beughed heartily at my exnation. ¡°An intruder who would make so much noise? Yeah, right.¡±

    It did sound absurd in hindsight, but in the heat of the moment, with the adrenaline pumping, even the most unusual situations could be a source of confusion and panic.

    Our sharedughter brought a sense of warmth and familiarity to the room, and I couldn¡¯t help but appreciate these simple, lighthearted moments. Despite the challenges andplexities of our lives, moments like these were a reminder of the joy and connection that defined our rtionship.

    Be, always attentive and caring, turned her attention to my work. ¡°How¡¯s work?¡± she inquired, her genuine interest shining through her eyes.

    I considered her question for a moment, reflecting on my career as a fashion consultant. ¡°It¡¯s all right,¡± I replied, my tone even. ¡°You know I love what I do.¡±

    Bing a fashion consultant had been a lifelong dream of mine, and now that I had achieved it, I was determined to make the most of every opportunity. The world of fashion was dynamic and ever-changing, and I relished the challenges and creative freedom it offered.Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.

    As Be continued to expertly stir the sizzling noodles, I took on the task of setting the table, pulling tes and forks from the kitchen drawers and cing them carefully in their respective spots. The aroma of the teriyaki chicken wafted through the kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation.

    I couldn¡¯t resist grabbing a couple of fresh oranges from the fruit basket, inspired to create a refreshing ss of homemade orange juice. I squeezed the vibrant citrus fruits, the sweet and tangy scent filling the air as I prepared a healthy and invigorating drink.

    The rhythmic clinking of the tes and the soft hum of the kitchen¡¯s ambient sounds created a soothing backdrop to our impromptu cooking session. As I poured the freshly squeezed orange juice into two sses, I couldn¡¯t help but smile at the domesticity of the moment.

    With the table set and the orange juice ready, I joined Be in the center of the kitchen, where the stove was still hissing with the sizzling stir-fry. The melody of Taylor Swift¡¯s ¡°Cardigan¡± echoed from a nearby speaker, filling the kitchen with its enchanting tune. Without a second thought, Be and I locked eyes and began to sway in time with the music.

    Our bodies moved gracefully to the rhythm, each step and gesture synchronized. As the song¡¯s heartfelt lyrics spilled from our lips, our voices harmonized effortlessly, blending with the music to create an intimate duet.

    And when the chorus arrived, we couldn¡¯t resist turning up the energy. With an almost mischievous twinkle in our eyes, we danced more vigorously, our feet gliding across the kitchen tiles. Ourughter bubbled forth as our movements became more animated, and the room seemed toe alive with our shared joy.

    The tablecloth, which had been resting on the counter, was at risk of joining our impromptu dance party. In our enthusiasm, a corner of the cloth edged perilously close to the open me of the stove. The near-miss filled the air with a hint of drama and made usugh even harder, the threat of a singed tablecloth adding an unexpected thrill to our dance.

    Despite the minor kitchen mishap, we continued to lose ourselves in the music, our bodies moving in perfect harmony. It was a moment of sheer happiness, a reminder that even the simplest moments shared with someone you love could be magical.

    As the final notes of the song yed out, we slowly wound down our impromptu dance and made our way back to the kitchen table. Be, stillughing and catching her breath, resumed tending to the stir-fried noodles. The aroma of the teriyaki chicken and the memory of our dance filled the room with a sense of contentment.

    Be skillfully loaded up the tes with the steaming stir-fried noodles and teriyaki chicken, ensuring that each serving was generous and enticing. The tantalizing aroma of the dish permeated the air, making my stomach rumble in anticipation.

    With the tes in hand, we moved to the living room, where a cozy movie night awaited. Be selected a film, and we settled onto the couch, making ourselvesfortable. The soft glow of the television cast a warm ambiance over the room.

    As we tucked into the delectable noodles Be had prepared, the vors danced on our taste buds, bringing a sense offort and nostalgia. Be¡¯s words echoed my own sentiments as she remarked, ¡°Mmh, feels like college days.¡±

    I chuckled, nodding in agreement. ¡°It really does. Thete-night snacks, the random movie marathons, and of course, your culinary experiments.¡±

    Be¡¯s eyes sparkled with mischief as she replied, ¡°Hey, those experiments were my path to bing a top-tier chef.¡±

    I couldn¡¯t help but grin, thoroughly entertained by her yful banter. ¡°Well, I¡¯m d you honed your skills. Otherwise, we might still be dining on burnt noodles.¡±

    She yfully rolled her eyes and nudged me with her elbow. ¡°Some things are best left in the past.¡±

    Suddenly the doorbell rang. It was almost 10 in the evening. Who could it be?

    Be went and opened the door and said, ¡°it¡¯s a florist. She received a call to deliver flowers to this address.¡±

    My heart was beating so fast. Thest time I received flowers, there was a threatening note hidden among the petals. The memory of that ominous message still haunted me.

    Be took the flowers from the delivery person and handed me a small envelope that was nestled within the bouquet. As I unfolded the note inside, my heart raced with a mix of fear and anticipation. What stood there made my heart almost jump out of my chest.

    The note read: ¡°I miss you, Mia. ¨C Sebastian.¡±

 44

    New York, Mia

    I grabbed my phone to call Sebastian. I was already in my room after eating dinner and cleaning up the dishes. The soft glow of the tablemp cast a warm,forting light around the room. I dialed his number and held the phone to my ear, heart pounding in anticipation. Sebastian picked up after the second ring.

    ¡°Hello Mia, did you receive my flowers?¡± he asked. His voice sounded slightly breathless, and I could hear the faint hum of traffic in the background. ¡°I¡¯m on my way home now from the office.¡±

    ¡°Yes, I did receive the flowers,¡± I replied, relief washing over me. ¡°For a moment, I was scared I thought it would be from the stalker.¡± I chuckled nervously.

    ¡°Ahh, it¡¯s just from me,¡± Sebastianughed. I could imagine his boyish smile, the one that I loved so much, even though I couldn¡¯t see it through the phone.

    ¡°What are you doing?¡± I inquired, curiosity getting the best of me.

    ¡°I¡¯m getting a pizza because I¡¯m too tired to cook. What about you?¡± he asked.

    ¡°I just had dinner with Be, and now I¡¯mying in bed,¡± I told him, sinking into the softforter. ¡°How¡¯s the baby doing?¡± Sebastian¡¯s concern for our unborn child always warmed my heart.

    I put my hand on my still fairly t stomach. ¡°It¡¯s living its best life,¡± I answered, chuckling at the little flutters I¡¯d been feelingtely.

    My voice grew serious. ¡°So hey, I know we haven¡¯t talked about this yet, but I asked my brother Kieran to be our child¡¯s godfather.¡± There was a short pause on the other end of the line.

    ¡°That¡¯s great,¡± Sebastian finally answered. ¡°Sorry, I was taking my order¡­ but, uhh, that¡¯s good. I wished you¡¯d discuss it with me first, though.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± I apologized, feeling a pang of guilt. ¡°I should have talked to you about it before making the decision.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s okay,¡± Sebastian reassured me. ¡°Who¡¯s the godmother then? Be? Sophia?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not sure which one to ask yet,¡± I admitted. ¡°I think you could help me with that decision. After all, it should be someone we both trust and love.¡±

    ¡°We¡¯ve got plenty of time to make that decision,¡± he said, sounding more at ease. ¡°Have you thought about where we will raise our baby?¡± Sebastian¡¯s question hung in the air, inviting contemtion.

    And to be honest, yes, I had given it a lot of thought. The idea of raising our child had been a topic that had upied my mind for a while. Our conversation had just taken a turn into deeper, more significant territory.

    ¡°I have,¡± I replied. ¡°I¡¯ve been thinking about it quite a bit, actually. I¡¯ve always loved the idea of a peaceful suburban neighborhood, with good schools and a safe environment.¡±

    Sebastian¡¯s voice carried a thoughtful tone. ¡°Suburbia sounds nice, Mia. It¡¯s a ce where our child can grow up with a sense ofmunity and a yard to y in. But, it¡¯s a big decision, and we should choose a location that¡¯s convenient for both of us, work-wise.¡±

    I nodded, though he couldn¡¯t see it. ¡°I agree, Sebastian. I think we should look for a ce that¡¯s not too far from our workces and provides the best opportunities for our child.¡±

    Sebastian¡¯s words hung in the air like a heavy cloud, casting a shadow over our conversation. ¡°But that is the problem, isn¡¯t it? My workce is in LA, and yours is in New York City.¡± His voice was tinged with the weight of the dilemma that now loomed before us.

    I stayed quiet for a few minutes, lost in thought. He was right. The geographical separation of our careers was a challenge we couldn¡¯t ignore. It was a stark reality that had the potential to change the course of our lives, especially with the impending arrival of our child.

    ¡°It¡¯s either LA or New York,¡± Sebastian said when I didn¡¯t give an immediate response. He seemed to understand the gravity of the situation. ¡°I¡¯m not going to lie,¡± he continued, his tone sincere. ¡°I bought a nice mansion in New York already for when the baby arrives. In case we decide to stay there and raise the baby. But if you want to move to LA for me, there¡¯s also a nice home awaiting there.¡±

    I let out a sigh, the weight of the decision pressing down on me. I knew that my career was deeply rooted in New York. My clients were here, my reputation was here, and I had worked hard to establish myself in this bustling city. If I left, I would risk losing a significant portion of my clients, and starting over in a new city, especially with a baby on the way, was a daunting prospect. It was one thing to take risks when it was just me, but now, I had a child to think about.

    Moreover, I loved New York. It was a city of opportunities, a ce where dreams were pursued, and I had always felt at home among the towering skyscrapers and the vibrant energy of the city.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°We will see,¡± I finally told Sebastian, my voice carrying the uncertainty that had settled in my heart. ¡°For now, the location will be New York. But maybe eventually, we will move to LA. Who knows what our future holds?¡±

    Sebastian¡¯s voice held understanding and a hint of relief. ¡°That¡¯s true,¡± he agreed. ¡°I wasn¡¯t nning on being a father anytime soon. But here we are.¡± He chuckled, hisughter bringing a touch of levity to the heavy conversation.

    ¡°Here we are,¡± I echoed, feeling a mix of emotions, from the apprehension of the unknown to the excitement of bing parents.

    A yawn escaped from my lips, an involuntary reaction to thete hour. It had been a long day, filled with work and discussions about our future, and the fatigue had finally caught up with me. I rubbed my eyes, feeling the heaviness in my eyelids as I held the phone to my ear.

    ¡°You should go to sleep,¡± Sebastian said, his voice filled with concern and affection. He always knew when it was time for me to rest, even when I didn¡¯t want to admit it.

    I couldn¡¯t help but smile, grateful for his thoughtfulness. ¡°Thank you for the flowers,¡± I told him, my heart warmed by the gesture that had brightened my day.

    ¡°You¡¯re wee, wifey,¡± he said, his wordsced with a hint of yfulness. It was a term of endearment that had be our own, a reminder of themitment we had made to each other.

    ¡°Sweet dreams,¡± Sebastian continued, his voice soft and soothing. ¡°I love you.¡±

    ¡°I love you.¡±

 45

    New York, Mia

    The dirty clothes basket in the corner of my room had be a looming mountain of unwashedundry, a testament to my recentck of energy. It had been weeks since I¡¯d tackled this chore, and it was high time to sort through the chaos of fabrics. My growing belly, a testament to the new life blossoming within me, had been sapping my energy, and I could no longer ignore theundry¡¯s persistent existence.

    With a sense of determination, I began the arduous task. I sorted all the clothes into two piles, separating the light and dark colors. The soft hum of the washing machine filled the room as I loaded it with the first batch ofundry. It was a task that required my full attention, and I was relieved to see the clothes finally being dealt with.

    As I closed the washing machine¡¯s lid, I realized that I hadn¡¯t been feeling welltely. The fatigue and asional bouts of nausea were unweepanions on this pregnancy journey. I¡¯d been told it was the hormones, but it didn¡¯t make the difort any easier to bear. Nevertheless, there was a sense of joy beneath it all, knowing that these changes in my body were for a wonderful reason.

    My body demanded nourishment, and I made my way to the kitchen, guided by the tantalizing scent of fresh fruit. I opened the refrigerator and retrieved a bunch of grapes, an apple, and some oranges that I had thoughtfully peeled the day before. I washed the grapes and sliced the apple, the crisp, juicy scent of it refreshing. I knew that taking care of myself was paramount, not just for my own health but for the well-being of the life growing inside me.

    Settling at the kitchen table, I indulged in the refreshing and nutritious fruits. The cool, sweet vors were a wee contrast to the chaos of theundry room. My phoney on the table, and I decided to take a moment for myself, scrolling through social media as I ate. The images and stories from friends and acquaintances provided a brief escape, a window into the world beyond my own. It was a pleasant distraction that allowed me to rx, if only for a moment.

    As I continued to scroll, I received a message from Be, m. She was out and about, offering to pick up lunch for us. It was a small act of kindness that meant the world to me, considering how I¡¯d been feelingtely. I thanked her for her thoughtfulness and eagerly anticipated the meal she would bring.

    While I waited for Be¡¯s return, my gaze wandered to the kitchen floor, which was in need of attention. It was a task that had been on my to-do list for a while, and now seemed as good a time as any to tackle it. I pushed myself up from the table, grateful for the temporary surge of energy.

    I grabbed the mop and filled the bucket with soapy water. The rhythmic swishing of the mop across the floor brought a sense of satisfaction. It was a simple task, but it helped create a cleaner and morefortable environment for both me and my baby. The scent of the cleaning solution filled the air, mingling with the lingering aroma of the fresh fruit.

    As I diligently cleaned my way through the house, the scent of cleanliness and the faint echoes of my chores lingered in the air. Theundry was sorted, the kitchen floor mopped, and I was making my way through tidying up the living room when the door swung open, and Be made her entrance.

    ¡°I brought us Chinese,¡± she announced with a warm smile. The delightful aroma of Chinese food filled the room, and my stomach couldn¡¯t help but respond to the inviting scents.

    ¡°Mmh,¡± I mumbled appreciatively, setting down the cleaning supplies and making my way into the kitchen. Hunger had crept up on me, and the idea of delicious Chinese food was too enticing to resist. I grabbed two tes from the cab and began serving us generous portions of the savory dishes.

    We settled down at the kitchen table, and with the first bite, the vors exploded on my taste buds. It tasted even better than I remembered, especially since it had been a while since I¡¯d indulged in Chinese cuisine. Thebination of vors and textures was a delightful treat.

    Be and I savored our meal, our conversation light and easy. After a few moments of enjoying our food, I couldn¡¯t contain the exciting news any longer.

    ¡°So,¡± I began, wiping my mouth with a napkin, ¡°Sebastian and I had a talkst night.¡± Be looked at me curiously, her interest piqued. ¡°We were discussing something important.¡±

    Be leaned forward, her eyes fixed on me. ¡°Yes?¡± she prompted.

    ¡°Well,¡± I continued with a grin, ¡°we talked about who should be our child¡¯s godmother.¡± Be¡¯s eyebrows shot up in surprise, and her eyes sparkled with curiosity.

    ¡°And?¡± she asked eagerly.

    My smile grew even wider as I delivered the news. ¡°We both agreed that you should be the godmother,¡± I announced.

    Be¡¯s eyes welled up with tears, and a joyful gasp escaped her lips. Sheunched herself at me, wrapping me in a tight, emotional hug. ¡°Really?¡± she whispered, her voice filled with awe.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.

    I hugged her back, feeling the warmth of her embrace and the depth of her happiness. ¡°Yes, really,¡± I replied, my heart swelling with gratitude for the friendship and support she had provided over the years.

    ¡°What an honor,¡± Be said, her voice trembling with emotion. She wiped away a tear from her cheek. ¡°I can¡¯t believe it.¡±

    I held her gaze, feeling the sincerity of my words. ¡°You take such good care of me, Be. I know you¡¯ll take excellent care of our baby too.¡± I reassured her, my hand resting gently on my pregnant belly. The thought of having Be as the godmother brought me immensefort, knowing that my child would be surrounded by love and protection.

    Be¡¯s eyes glistened with tears of joy. ¡°I¡¯ll protect your baby with my life,¡± she promised.

    I smiled.

    As Be and I enjoyed our meal, the conversation flowed naturally, and my heart was brimming with excitement about the uing arrival of my baby and the prospect of Be being the godmother. Weughed and shared stories, and the warmth of friendship filled the room.

    But then, without warning, my smile faltered. It felt as if the ground had shifted beneath me. I suddenly felt an overwhelming wave of dizziness wash over me. The room seemed to spin, and my stomach churned with an unsettling queasiness. I instinctively gripped the edge of the table to steady myself, my knuckles turning white from the effort.

    Be¡¯s voice, filled with concern, reached my ears as if from a distant ce. ¡°Mia, are you alright?¡± she asked, her words barely registering through the disorienting sensations that swirled around me.

    My vision blurred, and the world spun faster, as if I were trapped on a relentless, never-ending rollercoaster ride. Panic gripped me as my head felt as if it were spinning in different directions all at once, and every breath became a struggle.

    ¡°Mia?¡± Be¡¯s voice, though faint, grew more urgent. I wanted to respond, to reassure her that I was fine, but the words seemed trapped in my throat.

    The room continued to spiral, and my consciousness hung by a fragile thread. I fought to stay focused, to cling to reality, but the world around me dissolved into an iprehensible whirl of colors and shapes.

    And then, in a moment of overwhelming weakness, everything went nk. The sensation of the world spinning, the disorienting dizziness, and the room filled with concern all disappeared as I sumbed to unconsciousness.

    Time seemed to lose all meaning as I drifted in a void, unaware of anything around me. It was as if I were suspended in a liminal space, neither here nor there. In that dark abyss, there was no sense of time or ce, only a profound emptiness.

 46

    Los Angeles, Sebastian

    I sat in the conference room, my attention divided between the sketches our architect had presented and the myriad of thoughts swirling through my mind. The meeting had been one in a long series of endless appointments and discussions, all rted to business matters and the architectural details of ourtest project. My role as the head of a sessfulpany demanded constant dedication and an unending stream of meetings.

    As the architect continued his presentation, I couldn¡¯t help but feel the weight of exhaustion settling over me. The room was filled with the soft hum of voices, the sound of pens scratching against paper, and the asional clicking ofptops. My assistant, a sharp and efficient woman, hovered nearby, ready to assist with any requests.

    Suddenly, she appeared at the door and whispered, ¡°Mr. Thornton, your mother is in the lobby.¡±

    I furrowed my brows in confusion. What was my mother doing here, unannounced and during a crucial meeting? My mother had always been a source of stress in my life, orchestrating everything from my marriage to my future divorce and attempting to arrange another ill-fated union.

    I turned to the architect and stopped his presentation with a raised hand. ¡°I apologize, we¡¯ll need to pause for a moment,¡± I said, my voice carrying a touch of irritation. ¡°Take a break, get some fresh air, and perhaps a snack while I see what my mother needs.¡± I left the conference room, my mind grappling with the perplexing presence of my mother.N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner.

    In the lobby, I found her standing there, her presence immediately grating on my nerves. She was apanied by Amanda, a woman who she has been trying to thrust into my life against my wishes. Amanda stood quietly beside my mother, her demeanor a mix of shyness and unease.

    ¡°Mother. Amanda,¡± I greeted them tersely. I had no desire for this impromptu visit, and my mother¡¯s track record of interfering in my personal life only fueled my apprehension.

    ¡°I¡¯ve been to lunch with Amanda,¡± my mother announced, her tone falsely cheerful, ¡°and I thought to drop by and show her where her future husband works.¡±

    I couldn¡¯t help but groan inwardly. My mother¡¯s relentless determination to dictate the course of my life had already caused too much turmoil. She had forced me into marriage with Mia, then pushed for a divorce immediately after the birth of our child, insisting I marry Amanda instead.

    ¡°Mother,¡± I began, my patience wearing thin, ¡°let¡¯s not start this here. I¡¯m in the middle of an important meeting.¡±

    My mother, unfazed, simply waved off my concerns. ¡°Ah, Sebastian, surely you can make some free time for your future wife,¡± she chided, her words dripping with thinly veiled expectations.

    My frustration bubbled to the surface, and I responded with an edge to my voice. ¡°Mother, please don¡¯t put false ideas in her head. She¡¯s never going to be my wife. My wife is Mia.¡±

    My mother¡¯s eyes narrowed with disapproval, and she scoffed in response. ¡°That sinner? That¡­ that devil?¡± Her tone grew increasingly incensed. ¡°She has poisoned you, can¡¯t you see?¡±

    I gritted my teeth, trying to maintain myposure. My mother¡¯s disparaging words about Mia had been a constant presence in our tumultuous rtionship. ¡°Just¡­ just leave,¡± I told her, my patience finally reaching its limit.

    My mother stared at me, a mixture of anger and disappointment in her eyes. Amanda, who had remained silent throughout the exchange, seemed to sense the tension in the room. Without a word, I gestured the guard to escort them out. I returned to the conference room, a sense of frustration and helplessness lingering, knowing that my mother¡¯s interference would continue to cast a shadow over my life and the choices I made.

    The meeting continued, but my thoughts drifted away from the architect¡¯s presentation. I couldn¡¯t help but dwell on the unexpected visit from my mother and Amanda. I hadn¡¯t shared the details with Mia, nor had I wanted to, and I had even asked Sophia to keep thistest encounter a secret from her as well.

    The reason behind my silence was simple: Mia was pregnant. We were already navigating theplexities of our rtionship, the challenges of parenthood, and the impending birth of our child. Thest thing I wanted was to add more stress to Mia¡¯s te. Stress was known to have detrimental effects on both mother and baby, and I was determined to shield her from any additional burdens.

    As I sat in the meeting, my mind continuously drifted back to Mia. I was eager to see her, to hold her, and to share in the joy and anticipation of weing our child into the world. With each passing day, my fatherly instincts seemed to grow stronger, a deep sense of responsibility and love taking root within me.

    Just as I began to lose myself in thoughts of Mia and our unborn child, the door to the conference room burst open once more. I couldn¡¯t help but groan inwardly. The interruptions were bing increasingly frustrating, and I longed for a moment of respite.

    My assistant rushed toward me, her expression filled with urgency. ¡°Mr. Thornton,¡± she began, and I could sense that something was amiss. ¡°This is urgent.¡±

    My patience was wearing thin, and I couldn¡¯t contain my frustration any longer. ¡°Tell my mother to get out of this building before I call the cops on her!¡± I snapped, my voice filled with exasperation. I had hoped that the message would be clear, that my mother would understand the boundaries I was trying to establish.

    However, my assistant¡¯s face revealed a different emotion entirely. She looked at me with a mix of concern and sympathy. ¡°It¡¯s not your mother, Mr. Thornton. It¡¯s your wife. She¡¯s in the hospital.¡±

    The weight of her words hit me like a sledgehammer. My anger and irritation dissipated instantly, reced by a profound sense of rm and fear. My heart raced as I processed the news. Mia was in the hospital. My mind whirled with a thousand questions, all directed toward the well-being of my beloved wife and our unborn child.

    Without hesitation, I stood up from the conference table, my chair scraping loudly against the floor. The room fell into a hushed silence as I made my way to the door. My assistant followed me, her expression filled with empathy and understanding.

    ¡°Prepare the ne for me. Now!¡±

 47

    New York, Mia

    My eyes fluttered open, and the only thing that greeted me was a sea of white. I blinked, disoriented and groggy, as my surroundings slowly came into focus. It was a sterile, hospital room, and I was lying in a bed, connected to various monitoring devices. My heart raced as a rush of confusion washed over me. Where was I, and what had happened?

    Before I could gather my thoughts, I heard a familiar voice that cut through the haze of uncertainty. ¡°Oh my god, you¡¯re awake,¡± the voice said, filled with relief. I turned my head toward the source and saw Be and Sophia sitting by my side. Their faces were etched with concern and anxiety.

    ¡°Hi,¡± I managed to croak out, my voice hoarse and weak. ¡°Where am I?¡±

    Sophia, ever the calming presence, approached me and ced a gentle hand on my forehead. ¡°You¡¯re at the hospital,¡± she said softly, her eyes searching mine. ¡°You fainted. Are you feeling alright?¡±

    I attempted to take in a deep breath, the heaviness in my head slowly subsiding. Physically, aside from my tiredness, I felt fine. ¡°I think so,¡± I replied, my voice gaining a little more strength.

    Be, who was holding my hand, looked at me with a mixture of concern and curiosity. ¡°Sophia¡¯s right,¡± she said. ¡°The doctor said your blood pressure was really high. Is everything okay? Are you stressing over something? The pregnancy wasn¡¯t nned, and we¡¯ve had our share of unusual experiences during it. Is it bothering you?¡±

    I let out a heavy sigh. The truth was, it was bothering me. The pregnancy had been a rollercoaster ride of unexpected events, from the stalker¡¯s presence to my father¡¯s threats. While I tried to stay positive and focus on the joy of bringing a child into the world, the constant challenges and dangers had undoubtedly taken their toll.

    ¡°I try to stay positive,¡± I replied honestly, but it was bing increasingly difficult as the weight of our circumstances continued to press down on me.

    Just then, the doctor entered the room, his expression concerned as he approached my bedside. He scrutinized the monitors and reviewed my charts. ¡°Mrs. Thornton,¡± he began, addressing me with a professional yetpassionate tone, ¡°your blood pressure was rmingly high, which is why you fainted. Can you tell me if everything is alright? Are you under any unusual stress?¡±

    I nodded, realizing that I needed to be honest about my concerns. ¡°There are¡­ some unusual circumstances,¡± I admitted, my voice trembling slightly. ¡°We¡¯ve had some security concerns, and my father¡¯s been making threats. It¡¯s been a lot to handle.¡±

    The doctor listened attentively, his expression growing more serious as he considered my words. ¡°I understand,¡± he said, his tone empathetic. ¡°I can see how those circumstances might have caused you stress. It¡¯s crucial to manage your stress during pregnancy, for both your well-being and the baby¡¯s.¡±

    He exined that they had taken various measures to stabilize my condition and that they would closely monitor me during my stay. He encouraged me to discuss my concerns with a mental health professional and assured me that my well-being was of utmost importance.

    As we sat in the hospital room, engrossed in our conversation about my high blood pressure and the circumstances that had led to my current condition, the door to the room was flung open once more. This time, Kieran, my brother, rushed in, his face etched with deep concern.

    ¡°Is everything alright with her, doctor?¡± he asked, his voice filled with worry as he hurried over to my bedside. ¡°What happened?¡±

    The doctor, who had been closely monitoring my condition, spared Kieran a brief, reassuring nce before answering. ¡°High blood pressure,¡± he replied, his tone calm yet concerned.

    Kieran¡¯s eyes immediately sought mine, his gaze filled with anxiety. ¡°Is it Dad? Did he cause this?¡± he inquired, his voiceced with anger and protectiveness.N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.

    I shook my head, attempting to alleviate his concerns. ¡°It¡¯s not just Dad,¡± I exined, my voice quivering. ¡°It¡¯s everything, Kieran. The stalker, Dad¡¯s threats, the unexpected pregnancy-it¡¯s all been a lot to handle.¡±

    Kieran¡¯s expression softened as he absorbed my words, the protective anger in his eyes giving way to a profound sense of understanding and empathy. ¡°I¡¯m sorry you¡¯ve had to go through all of this,¡± he said, his voiceced with sympathy.

    In the midst of the medical discussion and family support, the doctor finally addressed my most pressing concern. ¡°The baby is doing fine,¡± he assured me, a glimmer of hope in his voice. ¡°But your high blood pressure still needs to be monitored. I¡¯d like to keep you in the hospital for a week to ensure your well-being. I also suggest you consult a therapist to help manage your stress.¡±

    The mere mention of therapy sent shivers down my spine, and I immediately shook my head. ¡°No,¡± I stated firmly. ¡°No therapist. I¡¯m okay, really.¡± The thought of therapy was one that I strongly resisted.

    Kieran, who knew my aversion to therapy, backed me up. ¡°She¡¯s not going to see a therapist,¡± he asserted, his voice reflecting the irritation I often vented to him about this particr subject. I had experienced enough therapy sessions forced upon me in my youth, courtesy of our father¡¯s insistence. I had resented every minute of those encounters, feeling as though I were the one being treated for non-existent issues while my father¡¯s true problems remained unaddressed.

    ¡°I know she¡¯s been through a lot,¡± Kieran added, looking at the doctor. ¡°But she¡¯s strong, and she¡¯s got a solid support system. We¡¯ll make sure she¡¯s alright.¡±

    The doctor contemted our responses, recognizing the determination in our voices. ¡°If that¡¯s what you prefer,¡± he finally conceded, ¡°we¡¯ll respect your wishes. But please, take care of yourself and reach out if you need any help.¡±

    The doctor, with his attention shifting towards Kieran, seemed eager to discuss my medication and meal n. ¡°Can I speak to you in the office about your wife¡¯s medicine and meal n?¡± he inquired.

    Kieran chuckled lightly, his usual calm andposed demeanor on full disy. ¡°I¡¯m not her husband, I¡¯m her brother,¡± he replied, offering a gentle correction.

    The doctor blinked in surprise at the unexpected revtion, and he quickly apologized, realizing his mistake. ¡°Oh, I see. I¡¯m sorry for the confusion. So, who is the husband, then?¡±

    Just as I was about to respond, a voice from the doorway spoke up, drawing everyone¡¯s attention. ¡°I am the husband.¡±

 48

    New York, Sebastian

    With a box of assorted fruits in my hand, I made my way to Mia¡¯s hospital room. The concern that had gnawed at me when I first received the news of her fainting had yet to subside. As I entered her room, I saw her lying in the hospital bed, her expression a mix of fatigue and worry.

    ¡°Is she alright, doctor?¡± I inquired, my voice filled with a mixture of anxiety and relief as I approached her. I leaned down and nted a gentle kiss on her forehead, a reassurance of my presence and support.

    The doctor, who had been monitoring Mia, exined the situation. ¡°She fainted due to high blood pressure,¡± he said, his tone calm and professional. ¡°If you woulde to my office, we can discuss her condition in more detail.¡±

    I nodded in acknowledgment, squeezing Mia¡¯s hand before addressing her. ¡°I¡¯ll be back soon,¡± I reassured her. She responded with a nod, a silent acknowledgment of my departure.

    With that, I followed the doctor to his office, where we could have a more in-depth discussion about Mia¡¯s health and the measures needed to manage her high blood pressure. My concerns were numerous, particrly in regard to the effect of the prescribed medication on the baby¡¯s well-being.

    ¡°Isn¡¯t the medication potentially harmful to the baby?¡± I asked, my voiceced with genuine concern for both Mia and our unborn child.

    The doctor, a seasoned professional, shook his head reassuringly. ¡°No, it¡¯s not harmful to the baby,¡± he exined. ¡°The goal is to manage her blood pressure and ensure that she gets the rest she needs to avoid further stress.¡±

    I nodded, slowlying to terms with the fact that the stress and challenges of the past few weeks had taken a toll on Mia¡¯s health. It wasn¡¯t surprising, considering the unexpected pregnancy, the looming presence of a stalker, and the added stress of dealing with her father¡¯s threats.

    ¡°I¡¯ll make sure she¡¯s stress-free, doctor,¡± I pledged, determined to provide Mia with the support and care she needed. The doctor had emphasized the importance of her well-being, and I wasmitted to ensuring her health and happiness during this critical time.

    With the doctor¡¯s guidance, I left his office with a prescription for Mia¡¯s medication, which I needed to pick up at the pharmacy. My steps carried me back to her room, a sense of responsibility and a deep well of love in my heart.

    As I approached the room, my phone rang, and I nced at the screen to see that it was my mother calling. I let out a frustrated groan and quickly powered off my phone. There were more pressing matters at hand than my mother¡¯s relentless interference and her seemingly erratic ideas. Mia¡¯s health and the well-being of our child were the top priorities, and I was determined to focus on those issues, shield Mia from any additional stress, and ensure that she received the best care and support.

    Returning to Mia¡¯s hospital room, I found her engaged in conversation with Be and Sophia. Kieran had already left for work, leaving me the task of tending to Mia¡¯s well-being.

    ¡°I was really scared,¡± I admitted to Mia as I settled in next to her on the bed.

    Mia, ever perceptive and understanding, raised an eyebrow at me, concern mingling with her inquiry. ¡°You came all the way from Los Angeles to be here? Don¡¯t you have a meeting?¡±This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.

    I couldn¡¯t help but shake my head at the notion. ¡°Do you really think a meeting is more important to me than your health?¡± I replied, my voice filled with sincerity. ¡°My wife and child are my main priority.¡±

    Be chimed in, her words yful but supportive. ¡°He¡¯s got his priorities straight,¡± she said, shing a wink at Mia. ¡°But then again, that¡¯s just the bare minimum.¡±

    Mia couldn¡¯t help butugh at Be¡¯s remark, the lightness of herughter a wee sound in the hospital room. ¡°Well, I¡¯m feeling slightly better,¡± she admitted. ¡°Also, I¡¯m quite thirsty.¡±

    I reached for the water bottle, inserting a straw into it and handing it to her. As she took a sip, I couldn¡¯t help but notice my phone ringing once more. The caller ID revealed that it was my mother. A feeling of exasperation washed over me; my mother¡¯s persistence knew no bounds, and I knew that ignoring her calls would only lead to further attempts to reach me.

    ¡°Excuse me,¡± I said as I stood and walked out of the room. Answering my phone call, I couldn¡¯t hide the irritation in my voice. ¡°Mother, what is it this time? I¡¯ve already told you I¡¯m not marrying Amanda,¡± I whispered firmly into the phone.

    My mother¡¯s response, however, took me by surprise. She assured me that her call had nothing to do with Amanda or any potential wedding arrangements.

    ¡°Your assistant said you¡¯re in New York?¡± she inquired. ¡°What are you doing there?¡±

    I sighed, feeling the need to exin my presence in New York. ¡°Mia fainted and is now in the hospital,¡± I said. ¡°I came to visit my wife.¡±

    A brief silence followed my words as my mother absorbed the information. ¡°Oh, I see,¡± she finally responded. ¡°Please give her my best wishes. How did she faint? What was the cause?¡±

    I exined the situation to my mother, sharing the information that Mia had fainted due to high blood pressure. Before I could delve into more details, my mother had another suggestion.

    ¡°Invite her to our family barbecue,¡± she rmended. ¡°It will be at Sophia¡¯s ce next weekend. Fresh air will do her good.¡±

    I considered the idea, knowing that Mia¡¯s health was of utmost importance. ¡°I¡¯ll see,¡± I replied. ¡°Right now, she needs to stay in the hospital for at least a week.¡±

    My mother, seemingly satisfied with our conversation, extended her well-wishes to Mia. ¡°Well, I hope she gets better soon,¡± she said before ending the call.

    I shook my head as I put my phone back in my pocket. My mother and her constant mood swings.

 49

    New York, Mia

    After a tough week in the hospital, the day had finallye for me to be released. With the unwavering support of Be, Sophia, Sebastian, and Kieran by my side, the days had passed faster than I¡¯d expected. Sebastian had been able to stay in New York for only two days before he had to return to Los Angeles, but his presence had provided much-neededfort during a challenging time.

    As I prepared to leave the hospital, I packed my belongings, a sense of eagerness building within me. Kieran walked into my room and checked to ensure everything was ready. I nodded at him, relief washing over me. ¡°Are you ready to go home?¡± he asked, reaching for my bags.

    ¡°So ready,¡± I replied with a smile, eager to leave the sterile environment of the hospital behind. The past week had been a test of my patience and resilience, and the hospital had offered littlefort. The food had been nd, and the white walls had only added to my sense of monotony.

    Following Kieran, I made my way to the car and climbed in. We began the journey back to my home, a ce that held warmth andfort that the hospital hadcked.

    Upon our arrival, I noticed Sophia¡¯s car parked on the curb. ¡°Sophia is here?¡± I inquired, my curiosity piqued.

    Kieran nodded as he helped me retrieve my bags from the car. ¡°Yes, she¡¯s here. Also, Mom called,¡± he added.

    My brow furrowed at the mention of my mother¡¯s call. ¡°What did she say?¡± I asked, my voice filled with a mix of uncertainty and skepticism.

    Kieran sighed, realizing theplex nature of my rtionship with our mother. ¡°She wishes you a quick recovery,¡± he ryed. ¡°She¡¯s sorry that she can¡¯t be with you during this time.¡±

    A sense of resignation washed over me as I heard my mother¡¯s words. ¡°Right,¡± I whispered, understanding the limitations of my mother¡¯s actions. She was bound by a toxic connection with our father, one that had made her a passive participant in the pain and suffering we endured.

    Over the years, I had harbored resentment and anger towards my mother for her inability to protect me or take a stand against my father¡¯s abuse. But as I grew older, I began to realize that she, too, was a victim of his maniption and cruelty. Her mind had been poisoned by his influence, rendering her helpless and devoid of a sense of self.

    It was a revtion that had been both painful and enlightening. I recognized that my mother was not the enemy, but rather someone who had been caught in a web of abuse and control. My empathy for her had grown, even as I struggled to reconcile theplexities of our rtionship.

    As Kieran helped me enter my apartment, I was greeted by the familiar surroundings that offered sce and safety.

    Upon walking into the living room, I was greeted by a heartwarming surprise. A huge ¡°wee home¡± banner hung prominently, and I couldn¡¯t help butugh at the heartfelt gesture.

    ¡°Wee home!¡± Be eximed, her enthusiasm infectious as she rushed over to give me a warm hug. Sophia joined in, offering her own hug and a container of chicken soup she had prepared for me.

    Kieran, ever the supportive and attentive brother, handled my bags and took them to my room while I settled in the kitchen with a bowl of chicken soup. My hospital stay had left me with a healthy appetite, and theforting aroma of the soup was especially appealing.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.

    As I savored the familiar taste of home-cooked food, Be and Sophia took the opportunity to catch me up on everything I had missed during my hospital stay. Their animated descriptions and anecdotes filled me in on the happenings and conversations that I had been absent for.

    Be had a suggestion for the following morning. ¡°We can go to the park tomorrow for some fresh morning air,¡± she proposed, her face beaming with anticipation.

    I hesitated, my gaze shifting to my phone as I scrolled through a barrage of emails that had umted during my absence. ¡°I don¡¯t know, Bells,¡± I responded, my voice tinged with concern. ¡°I have three clients scheduled for tomorrow.¡±

    Be¡¯s surprise and incredulity were evident as she asked, ¡°You¡¯re going to work already?¡± Her concern for my well-being was evident, but I had my reasons.

    I looked up from my phone and nodded, offering an exnation. ¡°Yes, Mia. The doctor said I need to rest,¡± Be pointed out, echoing her friend¡¯s sentiments.

    With a warm smile, I reassured them of my health and well-being. ¡°I appreciate your concern,¡± I said sincerely. ¡°But I am perfectly healthy. I promise to maintain a bnced diet and avoid undue stress.¡±

    Just as the conversation reached its conclusion, Kieran entered the kitchen and offered a gentle reminder. ¡°Don¡¯t forget to take your medicine,¡± he said, a reminder of the doctor¡¯s instructions.

    After Kieran had left for work, I ced my empty soup bowl in the sink, and Be and Sophia joined me in the living room to continue our conversation. We settled into thefort of our shared space, a sense of ease and camaraderie prevalent among us.

    As we were about to take our seats and delve into our conversation, the doorbell suddenly rang. I exchanged a questioning look with Be, curious about the unexpected interruption. ¡°Expecting anyone else?¡± I asked her, my curiosity piqued.

    Be shook her head, her expression equally puzzled. ¡°I don¡¯t think so,¡± she replied. ¡°It might be Kieran, he might have forgotten something,¡± she suggested, heading towards the door.

    It didn¡¯t take long for her to return to the living room, but the confusion on her face was evident. Her words wereced with bewilderment. ¡°Did any of you order pizza?¡± she inquired, holding a pizza box in her hands.

    Both Sophia and I shook our heads in unison. ¡°No,¡± we responded, equally puzzled by the sudden appearance of a pizza delivery.

    Be reasoned that it might have been a mix-up in the address, amon mistake. She ced the pizza box on the table, intending to check the security camera footage to confirm her theory.

    However, her expression took a more concerning turn as she reviewed the security camera footage on her phone. ¡°I can¡¯t see his face, but he doesn¡¯t seem lost at all,¡± shemented, her frown deepening as she scrutinized the video feed.

    With a sense of dread, Be opened the pizza box, revealing its contents. The sight and smell that emanated from the box left me in a state of shock. My stomach churned, and I felt an overwhelming urge to vomit as the pungent smell of dead roaches entered my nostrils.

    The entire pizza was covered in these repulsive insects, their presence a grotesque and horrifying spectacle. To make matters worse, a chilling message was scrawled across the pizza, one that sent shivers down my spine. The message read:

    Kill that baby or die together.

 50

    New York, Mia

    As the day of Sophia¡¯s barbecue approached, I found myself getting ready with a mix of excitement and trepidation. Sebastian was on his way to pick me up, and I had a sense offort in knowing that he would be by my side, even if only temporarily. The recent death threat had left me feeling scared and anxious, and I longed for the reassurance that came with Sebastian¡¯s presence.

    Sophia had shared with me that Patrick was making progress in his efforts to uncover the stalker¡¯s identity. However, the gravity of the situation was such that he couldn¡¯t reveal any details yet, fearing it might provoke the stalker further. The knowledge that we were inching closer to discovering the identity of the person tormenting me offered a glimmer of hope, but it was overshadowed by the persistent fear that had taken root in my life.

    I ryed the recent developments to Sebastian, and his reaction was immediate and protective. He inquired about my well-being and offered to assign a guard to protect me. The concern in his voice was palpable, and it reminded me of the unwavering support I had in him.

    With his reassurance and encouragement, I proceeded to prepare for the barbecue. I meticulously applied my makeup and styled my hair, trying to focus on the simple pleasures of the day rather than the looming threat that had be a constant presence in my life.

    Slipping into a jumpsuit thatfortably amodated my growing belly, I couldn¡¯t help but smile at the sight of it. My baby¡¯s presence was a source of profound joy and a reminder that life was still filled with beauty and hope, even in the face of adversity.

    Just as I was putting the finishing touches on my makeup, there was a knock at my door, and I was greeted by Be¡¯s familiar presence. She had brought me a ss of orange juice, a small but meaningful gesture of care and support.

    ¡°I brought you orange juice,¡± Be said, cing it on my table. Her concern for my well-being was evident in her eyes.

    ¡°Thank you,¡± I responded sincerely, taking a sip of the juice, which tasted delicious and refreshing. The simple act of kindness from a friend was a reminder that, despite the fear and uncertainty that hung over us, I was not alone in facing these challenges.

    Be, ever perceptive, broached the subject of my fear and the stalker¡¯s persistent threat. ¡°Are you scared?¡± she asked, her voice gentle.

    I furrowed my brows, pondering her question. ¡°For what?¡± I replied, a tinge of confusion in my tone.

    She sighed, her expression one of concern and understanding. ¡°Well, the fact that you have a stalker behind you who knows your new address,¡± she exined.

    The weight of Be¡¯s words settled heavily on my shoulders, reminding me of the daily fear that had be a constant presence in my life. ¡°Well, at this point, it just feels like a routine, you know?¡± I confessed. ¡°It happens so much that I think it¡¯s normal.¡±

    I took another sip of the orange juice, savoring its taste, even in the midst of my trepidation. Be¡¯s concern and support were reassuring, and I was grateful for her presence in my life.

    Be expressed a hope that Patrick would uncover the stalker¡¯s identity soon, a sentiment I wholeheartedly shared. The prospect of finally bringing an end to the torment was a source of hope andfort.

    Before long, Be called out from the living room, ¡°Sebastian¡¯s here.¡±

    I gathered my bag and headed out.

    Sebastian opened the door for me, his warm smile instantly putting me at ease as I stepped into his car. ¡°You look gorgeous,¡± he said, his voice filled with admiration, before leaning in to ce a gentle kiss on my cheek. I blushed and replied, ¡°Thank you.¡±

    As we began our journey to Sophia¡¯s house, Sebastian regaled me with tales of his week in Los Angeles. He spoke passionately about his work, the meetings, and the clients he had met. It was clear that he was dedicated to his career, and I couldn¡¯t help but feel proud of him.

    I had never been to Sophia¡¯s house before since she married Patrick, and as we approached, I couldn¡¯t help but gasp in awe. The mansion was a stunning sight, with a grand fountain gracing the front yard and an air of elegance that was hard to miss.

    Sophia was waiting for us at the entrance, her radiant smile weing us. ¡°Come in,¡± she greeted us warmly. ¡°Your home is so beautiful,¡± I eximed, genuinely impressed.

    Sophia chuckled. ¡°I¡¯ve got great taste,¡± she replied with a wink, leading us through the grand entrance into the heart of her home.

    She guided us to the backyard, where a lively gathering was in full swing. Patrick was engaged in a conversation with Sebastian¡¯s dad, and Sebastian¡¯s mom was busy tending to the sd table. The atmosphere was filled withughter and the aroma of delicious food, making it clear that this was going to be a fantastic evening.

    As the social butterfly, I couldn¡¯t help but be drawn to the conversations and festivities, but I realized that I needed to freshen up after the long car ride. ¡°I¡¯m going to the restroom for a bit,¡± I told Sebastian, trying not to disturb his conversation with his old man.

    He nodded with a warm smile. ¡°I¡¯ll show you where it is,¡± he offered, leading the way. We headed upstairs to find the restroom.

    The upstairs hallway was just as elegant as the rest of the house, adorned with tasteful artwork and antique furniture. I followed Sebastian as he navigated through thebyrinth of a home that was muchrger than it had appeared from the outside. Finally, he stopped in front of avishly decorated door. ¡°Here you go,¡± he said, opening it for me.

    When I walked in, Sebastian suddenly pushed me onto the sink as he closed the door behind us.

    He pinned my arms above my head and kissed me hard, his tongue pushing into my mouth and tasting me. I moaned softly at the sensation of him against me. His hands roamed over my body, touching every inch of me.

    I could feel myself getting wetter with each touch. He broke away from the kiss and looked down at me, his eyes dark with lust. ¡°You are so beautiful.¡±I blushed at thepliment.

    ¡°I want to taste you,¡± he said huskily, and before I knew it he had lifted me up and ced me on the edge of the sink. He pressed himself between my legs and I felt his hot breath on my pussy.

    He licked along my slit, making me squirm and gasp. He spread my lips open and flicked his tongue across my clit, making me cry out. My back arched off the sink as he continued to lick and suck on me.

    I couldn¡¯t stand the pleasure anymore and came hard, my juices flowing out onto his face. Sebastian smiled and wiped his face with a towel.

    He then took me in his arms and kissed me deeply. I could taste myself on him, but that didn¡¯t bother me at all. ¡°You are delicious,¡±he said against my lips. ¡°And i¡¯m d you liked it.¡± Mmmm¡­ me too.¡±

    I pulled away from him slightly to look into his eyes, and he was smiling back at me. ¡± That was just the beginning, my love. You¡¯ve got so much more toe.¡±

    ¡°I Hope so, Sebastian. I Hope so.¡± I kissed him again, this time longer, letting our tongues dance together. My hand went down between us to feel his erection, which was still hard. He spread my legs wider while I was still sitting on the sink.

    He pushed one finger inside of me, and I moaned. He moved his finger around inside of me, and I moved my hips against his hand. ¡°Ohh¡­ Sebastian¡­¡±Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.

    He removed his fingers from me and reced them with two. I gasped as he slid them into me. ¡°Ohhhh¡­ oh yes!¡± He pumped his fingers in and out of me slowly, then faster. I began to move my hips in rhythm with him.

    I felt my orgasm building up inside of me. ¡°Sebastian¡­ please.. make me cum!¡± He kept pumping his fingers into me, making me crazy with lust. I came hard, my pussy clenching tightly around his fingers.

    ¡°Ohhhhh¡­ Sebastian! Oh my God!¡± He pulled his fingers out of me and brought them up to my mouth. ¡°Taste yourself on me, my love.¡± I opened my mouth and sucked his fingers clean. ¡°Mmmm¡­ yummy,¡¯I purred.

    He then bent me over the sink and thrust himself deep inside of me. He fucked me hard and fast, his hands holding me tight against him. I wrapped my legs around him, wanting to be closer to him.

    He reached around and yed with my breasts, pinching my nipples hard. I cried out in pleasure, and he slowed down, moving his cock in and out of me. He leaned forward and licked my nipple. ¡°Ahhhh¡­¡± I moaned.

    He did it again, and I arched my back, pushing my breast into his mouth. He continued to suck and bite my nipple until I was writhing in pleasure.

    I let go of the sink and put my hands on the wall behind me. Sebastian picked up the pace again, and I started to meet his thrusts with mine. He held me tighter, and I could hear his breathing getting heavier. I knew he was close, and I wanted to feel him explode inside of me. ¡°Sebastian¡­. want you to fill me up with your hot cum. Please¡­¡±

    He pulled out of me and told me to go on my knees. He stood before me, his cock hard and throbbing. I looked up at him and saw the passion in his eyes. I opened my mouth and took his cock inside of it. I sucked him like a whore, taking his entire length inside of my throat. I gagged a little, but I didn¡¯t stop. I wanted him to cum in my mouth. I sucked harder and harder, and I heard him groan.

    I felt his cock swell even bigger, and he shot his cum down my throat. I swallowed every drop, and I loved the taste of him. When he finished, he pulled out of my mouth and we kissed again.

 51

    New York, Mia

    We made our way back downstairs to the lively scene by the barbecue. Sebastian headed over to his brother, engrossed in a conversation that seemed to be a mix of sibling camaraderie and catching up on life¡¯s events. I, on the other hand, found myself assisting Sophia in setting the table, cing tes, and bringing out the drinks.

    Sophia¡¯s excitement was palpable as she carefully arranged the tes, a wide grin adorning her face. ¡°This is my first barbecue in this house, and I am so excited!¡± She squealed, her enthusiasm infectious. I shared her joy, thrilled to be a part of this special evening.

    As I was helping Sophia, Sebastian¡¯s mom, Elena, approached us with a warm smile. ¡°Hello, Mia,¡± she greeted, her eyes drifting to my midsection. ¡°I can see the beautiful bump showing.¡±

    From the corner of my eye, I noticed a subtle change in Sophia¡¯s expression. Her smile faltered, and there was a hint of distaste in her gaze. I wondered if there was more to this than met the eye. Perhaps it was the way Elena had practically forced Sebastian and me into marriage or some other unspoken tension between them. I couldn¡¯t hold a grudge against her forever, though I had my reservations about Elena.

    ¡°Thanks, Elena,¡± I replied with a polite smile, not letting herment dampen my mood.

    Elena continued to smile at me, her demeanor warm. ¡°I¡¯m so d to see you again. I heard you were in the hospital.¡±

    I nodded, grateful for her genuine concern. ¡°Yes, due to high blood pressure,¡± I admitted. ¡°But all is well now.¡±

    Elena nodded in understanding. ¡°Good, I¡¯m d to hear that you¡¯re doing better. Your health is the most important thing.¡±

    Just as our conversation seemed to be heading towards a more amiable direction, Patrick¡¯s voice broke through the air. ¡°The barbecue is ready,¡± he announced, drawing everyone¡¯s attention to the main event.

    I gathered the napkins and made my way outside, where the guests had already taken their seats. I settled down next to Sebastian, and he leaned in to whisper in my ear, his voice tinged with curiosity. ¡°Was that my mother talking to you?¡±

    I nodded in response, not wanting to make a big deal out of the interaction. ¡°She was just asking how I was doing,¡± I assured him, though I couldn¡¯t help but sense there was more behind his inquiry.

    ¡°That¡¯s all she asked?¡± Sebastian probed, his brow furrowing ever so slightly.

    I shrugged my shoulders, not entirely sure why he was pressing the issue. ¡°Yes, why?¡± I asked, hoping he would borate on his concerns.

    Sebastian¡¯s expression remained thoughtful as he pondered his mother¡¯s brief conversation with me. ¡°Just wondering,¡± he finally replied, leaving me with a sense that there might be more to the story.

    The barbecue was a culinary delight. The scent of sizzling meat, the fresh sd, and the crispy fries created an irresistiblebination. I couldn¡¯t help but marvel at the delicious spread before us. The first bite of juicy meat was enough to send my taste buds into a state of pure bliss, and the fresh sd provided a refreshing contrast to the savory vors. The fries were golden and perfectly crispy, adding an extrayer of satisfaction to the meal. I couldn¡¯t get enough, and I relished every bite.

    Amid the delectable feast, the conversation flowed effortlessly. Laughter and anecdotes filled the air, creating an atmosphere of warmth and camaraderie. Patrick, ever the instigator of nostalgia, began to reminisce. ¡°Remember when we were younger, Seb? How we used to run inside the house with only our underwear on and let the maid chase us?¡±

    Sebastian chuckled, his eyes sparkling with fond memories. ¡°I remembered that, and she would always threaten us that she would take away all the chocte from the pantry if we didn¡¯t behave.¡±

    Patrick joined in theughter, his voiceced with amusement. ¡°I know, right? Like we didn¡¯t have a secret stash in our room.¡±

    Their sharedughter echoed through the backyard, and the rest of us couldn¡¯t help but join in. It was endearing to listen to these tales from their childhood, to catch a glimpse of the mischievous brothers they had once been. The way they recounted their antics made it clear that family bonds were strong, and the passage of time had only made their connections deeper.

    As we all finished up our tes, it became evident that the men had other ns for the afternoon. Patrick, Sebastian and Sebastian¡¯s dad decided to indulge in a game of golf, leaving Sophia and me to clean up the table. We gathered the empty tes and utensils, sharing stories as we worked together to tidy up the outdoor dining area.

    Sebastian¡¯s mom, Elena, excused herself with a gentle smile and a hand on her temple. ¡°I have a bit of a headache, so I¡¯m going to rest in one of the guest bedrooms,¡± she exined.

    I nodded in understanding, and Sophia smiled warmly at her mother-inw. ¡°Of course, Elena. Take all the time you need. If you need anything, just let me know.¡±

    After we had finished cleaning up the table, I told Sophia that I would head to the restroom. The afterglow of our delightful barbecue still lingered, and I weed the chance for a moment of solitude.

    I walked upstairs, the elegant decor of the house surrounding me. The staircase led to a hallway, and I made my way to the bathroom, my mind still filled with the warmth of the evening. As I approached the bathroom door, I hesitated for a moment, contemting the events of the day.

    Just as I was about to open the bathroom door, I froze. A voice reached my ears from the other side, and I quickly realized it was Elena, Sebastian¡¯s mother. She seemed to be unaware of my presence, as her voice carried easily through the door.

    ¡°Yes,¡± she said, her tone not as hushed as she might have thought.

    I remained still, listening intently, my curiosity piqued by the ndestine conversation.

    Elena continued to speak, her words revealing something I hadn¡¯t expected. ¡°Sebastian is married to Mia because she is pregnant. Their marriage will notst. I already talked about it with Sebastian.¡±

    My eyebrows furrowed in confusion. I couldn¡¯t believe what I was hearing. Elena seemed to be discussing my marriage to her son as though it were some kind of arrangement. I mean it kind of was, but right now it felt like a real marriage. The warmth and eptance I had felt earlier in the day now felt like a facade.

    Elena¡¯s voice continued, and my heart sank as I heard her next words. ¡°After the baby is born, he will file for a divorce and take the baby. He¡¯ll get married to Amanda so they can raise the baby together.¡±

    I stood in shock, my mind racing. Amanda? Who was Amanda, and why would Sebastian supposedly marry her after our child was born? None of this made sense, and I felt a growing sense of unease.

    ¡°I will not let my son be with that devil of a woman. I will make sure of it.¡± I heard Elena say.N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.

    What the fuck?!

 52

    New York, Sebastian

    The drive to Mia¡¯s apartment was awfully quiet, the weight of unspoken words hanging heavily in the air. I nced at her, sitting in the passenger seat, staring out the window with a distant look in her eyes. She didn¡¯t even acknowledge me, her silence speaking volumes.

    I had a gnawing feeling that something was wrong, something deeper than a mere headache. I couldn¡¯t bear the growing distance between us, the unspoken tension that had crept into our evening.

    ¡°Mia, please talk to me, baby?¡± I implored, my voice tinged with concern. I reached out to touch her, to hold her hand, but she pulled away, her gaze fixed outside the window.

    ¡°Did something happen?¡± I probed gently, searching her face for any hint of what might be bothering her.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.

    Mia simply shrugged her shoulders, her lips sealed tightly. ¡°You tell me,¡± she finally grumbled, her voiceced with frustration.

    My heart sank as I realized that something had indeed gone wrong during the barbecue. Mia¡¯s silence and withdrawn demeanor were signs that I couldn¡¯t ignore. I knew her well enough to understand that something was eating at her, and it was tearing me apart not to know what it was.

    ¡°What is it, baby?¡± I asked once more, my voice filled with a mixture of concern and frustration. I wanted her to talk to me. I couldn¡¯t stand the thought of her being upset or angry, especially when I didn¡¯t know the cause.

    Mia remained quiet, her eyes still fixed outside. It was as though a wall had risen between us, and I didn¡¯t know how to tear it down.

    ¡°Was it the food?¡± I questioned, grasping at any possible exnation. ¡°Did my mom say something to you?¡±

    Mia¡¯s response was tired and resigned, ¡°Let it be.¡±

    I wanted to roll my eyes in exasperation, but I knew that would only make matters worse. Taking a deep breath, I tried a different approach, desperate to break through the barriers that had sprung up between us.

    ¡°Come on, baby,municate with me,¡± I pleaded. ¡°We¡¯re in this together. I need to know what¡¯s going on with you.¡±

    The silence in the car was stifling as I pulled up in front of Mia¡¯s apartment building. She seemed ready to jump out and escape the heavy atmosphere that had settled between us, but I locked the car doors. I couldn¡¯t let her go, not when something was clearly tormenting her.

    ¡°You¡¯re not going anywhere until you tell me what¡¯s going on,¡± I stated firmly, my voice leaving no room for argument. I had to get through to her, to find a way to make her open up.

    Mia finally turned to look at me, and I saw tears glistening in her eyes. Her vulnerability was stark, and it broke my heart to see her in such a state. ¡°What is it, baby?¡± I asked once more, this time with a gentler and more soothing tone.

    She bit her lower lip, struggling to find the words. ¡°Sebastian,¡± she began, her voice wavering, ¡°I overheard something at Sophia¡¯s house. Your mother¡­ she said things about us.¡±

    I felt a knot tighten in my chest as I realized that Mia had overheard my mother having a conversation I had hoped she wouldn¡¯t hear. My mother¡¯s words had been meant to be a secret n, a scheme that Mia wasn¡¯t supposed to know about.

    I reached out to gently wipe away a tear that had escaped down Mia¡¯s cheek. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry you had to hear that,¡± I whispered, guilt weighing heavily on me.

    Mia¡¯s voice trembled as she continued, ¡°She said that our marriage¡­ that it was only because I¡¯m pregnant. And that after the baby is born, you would file for a divorce and¡­ and marry someone else.¡±

    My heart ached at Mia¡¯s words, and I couldn¡¯t deny the truth in them. My mother had indeed expressed such intentions, an agenda that was not meant for Mia¡¯s ears. I had never wanted Mia to feel like our marriage was anything less than genuine, and now that trust had been shattered.

    ¡°I can¡¯t believe she said that,¡± Mia whispered, her voice choked with emotion.

    ¡°I can¡¯t either,¡± I replied, my own voice heavy with regret. ¡°I wanted to protect you from this, Mia. I didn¡¯t want you to think our marriage was just a n.¡±

    Mia took a shaky breath, and she finally looked into my eyes. ¡°Sebastian, do you¡­ do you have any intention of divorcing me after the baby is born?¡±

    I held Mia¡¯s gaze, my hand still cupping her cheek. ¡°No, Mia,¡± I said with conviction. ¡°I love you. I want to be with you. I don¡¯t care what my mother says. Our marriage is real, and our child is a blessing.¡±

    Mia¡¯s eyes bore into mine, her voice shaking as she asked, ¡°Did you know she said that? Did she tell you?¡±

    I sighed, the weight of the situation pressing down on me. ¡°Yes,¡± I admitted, and I watched as tears welled up in Mia¡¯s eyes. Her emotions were raw, and I knew that I had let her down by keeping my mother¡¯s intentions a secret.

    ¡°And you didn¡¯t tell me, what the hell, Sebastian?!¡± Mia eximed, her voice filled with a mix of anger and hurt.

    I reached for her hand, holding it tightly. ¡°I didn¡¯t want you to worry and stress about it,¡± I exined. ¡°Baby, you just got released from the hospital. I want to keep you and the baby safe. I also have no intention of making my mom¡¯s wishese true. You are my wife, and I¡¯mmitted to you till death do us part.¡±

    Mia sniffed, the tears continuing to fall down her face. ¡°Your mom acts all nice and sweet to me, but really, she doesn¡¯t mean it.¡±

    I stroked Mia¡¯s hair gently, wanting to provide her withfort and reassurance. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, my love. I¡¯m so sorry you have to go through all of this. Just know it will get better, and we¡¯ll face it together.¡±

    Mia sighed, her shoulders rxing a bit. I leaned in and ced a tender kiss on her cheek, my lips warm against her skin. ¡°I¡¯ll have to go back to Los Angeles now,¡± I told her, my voice soft. ¡°But I¡¯ll see you in a week, alright? During the gender reveal?¡±

    Mia nodded, her eyes reflecting a mix of emotions. ¡°Are you going to be at the ultrasound appointment too?¡± she asked, a hint of hope in her voice.

    I nodded firmly. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t miss it for the world,¡± I reassured her, mymitment unwavering.

    A small, watery smile tugged at the corners of Mia¡¯s lips as she wiped away her tears. ¡°Alright,¡± she replied, her voice filled with warmth. ¡°I love you.¡±

    ¡°I love you, baby,¡± I whispered, holding her close, knowing that our love would see us through whatever challengesy ahead. Our journey was filled with its share of ups and downs, but I was determined to stand by Mia¡¯s side, no matter what.

 53

    New York, Mia

    I stood in the kitchen, preparing breakfast for myself, when Be suddenly burst in with a disheveled look on her face. I nced at her, slightly taken aback. ¡°I thought you were going to the store?¡± I asked, my curiosity piqued. Her urgency was apparent.

    She grabbed me by the hand and almost dragged me outside. I followed, a sense of unease growing. When I saw what had been done to the front of our apartment, my eyes widened in shock. There was toilet paper strewn everywhere, like a chaotic sea of white. Eggs had been thrown against the wall, leaving a mess that would be a nightmare to clean.

    ¡°What the hell?!¡± I eximed, my voice filled with a mixture of anger and disbelief. ¡°How didn¡¯t we hear this?¡±

    Be, panting from her rushed entry, exined, ¡°Our air conditioning is very loud.¡±

    But when she pointed to the graffiti on the wall and showed me what had been written, my heart skipped a beat. ¡°It says, ¡®Get rid of that devil child.''¡±

    My breath caught in my throat. This was no ordinary prank. It was a threat, a terrifying message that struck at the heart of our deepest fears.

    Be quickly retrieved her phone from her pocket, her hands trembling slightly. ¡°I¡¯ll call the police,¡± she said, her voice filled with urgency.

    I shook my head, my mind racing with fear and anger. ¡°No, Be, call Patrick. He¡¯s the one working on this case. He needs to see this.¡±

    Be nodded, her fingers quickly dialing the number. I, on the other hand, took out my phone and captured images of the vandalism. I sent the pictures to Sebastian in a message, my fingers trembling slightly as I typed out a quick exnation.

    Sebastian¡¯s call came through almost immediately. ¡°Who did that?!¡± he bellowed, his voice heavy with concern.

    I took a deep breath, trying to steady myself. ¡°Our stalker,¡± I replied. ¡°This is getting out of hand, Sebastian. I hope Patrick catches the stalker soon.¡±

    I heard Sebastian sigh on the other end of the line, his frustration evident. ¡°I hope that too. Are you going to workter?¡±

    I nodded, even though he couldn¡¯t see me. ¡°Yes, of course.¡±

    ¡°Please be careful, Mia,¡± he implored, his worry for me palpable.

    ¡°I will, Sebastian,¡± I assured him, my heart heavy with the weight of the situation.

    ¡°I love you,¡± he said, the words filled with warmth and sincerity.

    ¡°I love you too,¡± I replied, a lump forming in my throat. I wished he was here with me in this moment of fear and uncertainty.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.

    As the call ended, I turned to Be, who was still on the phone with Patrick. She hung up after a few minutes and ryed his message. ¡°Patrick said he¡¯lle over in a few minutes. He wants to see the scene in person.¡±

    I nodded in agreement, grateful that we had someone like Patrick working on this case. But the fear and unease continued to linger, like a dark cloud over our lives. Our stalker had escted their actions, and we were left wondering just how far they were willing to go.

    After Patrick came and took pictures of everything, we only hoped that this would not get any worse.

    Together, Be and I began cleaning up the mess, trying to restore some semnce of order to our front entrance. But it was clear that we were living in the shadow of a dangerous threat, and the only sce we had was in the hope that Patrick could bring this ordeal to an end before it escted any further.

    My journey to work felt like a mere formality, my mind far removed from the tasks and responsibilities thaty ahead. It was as though I was on autopilot, navigating the world around me but not truly present. Thoughts of the recent events at my apartment, the disturbing message left by our stalker, and the well-being of my unborn child consumed my every waking moment.

    As I began helping my clients, it didn¡¯t take long for them to sense that my thoughts were elsewhere. They were perceptive, aware of the distant look in my eyes, thepses in my concentration. I tried to maintain a facade of professionalism, but it was clear that I was not fully present.

    Thankfully, my clients didn¡¯t press me with questions or concerns. They allowed me to go through the motions, a silent understanding between us that there were moments in life when the mind needed space to wander, to process, and to heal.

    With each client, I pushed through, offering support and guidance to the best of my ability. But it was a relief when myst client left, and I found myself alone in my office. The weight of the day¡¯s interactions and the turmoil in my personal life bore down on me.

    Taking a deep breath, I sank into the chair behind my desk, feeling the weight of exhaustion settling in. My heart raced, my thoughts a chaotic whirlwind. I stared out the window, watching the world move on while I remained trapped in a maelstrom of emotions and fear.

    My whole life was a mess, a relentless cycle of pushing forward and coping with the uncertainties and threats that had invaded my world. I longed for a sense of normalcy, for peace and safety, but it seemed perpetually out of reach.

    There was a knock on my office door, and my assistant entered, her expression gentle and caring. ¡°Bagel and water for you, Mrs. Thornton,¡± she said, cing the tray on my desk.

    I managed a weak smile of gratitude, my appetite stirred by the simple offering. ¡°Thank you,¡± I replied, my voice softer than usual.

    She lingered for a moment, her concern evident. ¡°Can I leave early today?¡± she asked, her voice a blend of professionalism and empathy.

    I nodded in acknowledgment, appreciating her understanding. ¡°Yes, you can,¡± I said, recognizing that I wasn¡¯t the only one affected by the chaos in my life.

    My assistant left the room, and I was finally alone, with nothing but the quiet presence of the bagel and water before me. I took small bites, findingfort in the familiarity of food, even as my thoughts continued to churn.

    The exhaustion that had been building throughout the day washed over me like a tidal wave, and I realized just how much I had been pushing myself. I sank back in my chair, overwhelmed by a sense of weariness that had been simmering beneath the surface.

    My eyelids grew heavy, and before I could even finish the bagel, I found myself drifting into a deep sleep. My body surrendered to the need for rest, and my mind, even if briefly, was granted a respite from the turmoil that had been my constantpanion.

    As I slept, the world outside my office window continued to move on, unaware of the struggles and fears thaty within these four walls.

 54

    New York, Mia

    Be and I strolled through the mall, the bustling atmosphere of shoppers and the myriad of stores surrounding us. Tomorrow was the big day, the gender reveal party, and Be was the keeper of the secret. She was the one who knew whether it would be a boy or a girl.

    As we moved from store to store, gathering all the necessities for the party, I couldn¡¯t help but feel a mixture of excitement and curiosity. Be had kept the gender hidden from me, and I couldn¡¯t wait to find out what our little one would be.

    But today, my role was simply to assist in the shopping. Be had a surprise nned, and I was more than willing to go along with it. She¡¯d been the one taking charge of this particr aspect of the celebration, and I had no doubt it would be spectacr.

    We browsed through racks of party decorations, baby clothes, and various items suitable for the big reveal. Be held up a beautiful yellow onesie, the fabric soft and inviting. ¡°This would look so good on the baby,¡± she mused, cing it into her cart.

    I chuckled, watching as she eagerly gathered more items for our unborn child. ¡°Auntie is getting it, I see,¡± I remarked, a teasing tone in my voice. I knew that Be had already prepared a substantial wardrobe for our little one, and the onesie was just one more addition to the growing collection.

    She nced over at me with a mischievous grin, her eyes alight with excitement. ¡°You can never have too many clothes for a baby,¡± she retorted, her shopping enthusiasm unwavering.

    I shook my head, amused by her dedication. ¡°Well, my child will certainly have a stylish wardrobe, thanks to you.¡±

    Beughed, a carefree and joyous sound. ¡°That¡¯s the n! I want the baby to be the best-dressed in town.¡±

    We continued our shopping, with Be¡¯s cart gradually filling with an array of items for the gender reveal party. Streamers, balloons, and decorations in shades of blue and pink, as well as some neutral colors, would transform our chosen venue into a festive celebration.

    The day had been filled with shopping for the gender reveal party, and as our bags grew heavy with decorations and supplies, hunger pangs began to gnaw at us. Be and I decided to take a break and headed to the mall¡¯s cafeteria for a quick meal.

    The scent of fried chicken and the tantalizing aroma of fresh-cut fries filled the air as we approached the food court. It was an irresistible temptation, and our rumbling stomachs made the decision even easier. We ordered a generous serving of crispy fries and fried chicken, finding a table where we could sit and enjoy our impromptu feast.

    We dug into our meals, savoring the deliciousbination of vors. Be, between bites of chicken, turned to me with a thoughtful expression. ¡°So, do you already know where the baby is going to grow up? New York or Los Angeles?¡±

    It was a question that Sebastian and I had discussed at length, one that weighed heavily on our minds. The decision was crucial, as it would shape our future as a family. Both New York and Los Angeles had their appeal, and choosing one over the other was a challenge.

    ¡°We have New York nned for now,¡± I replied, the uncertainty still lingering in my voice. It was the choice that seemed most practical at the moment, considering our current circumstances and support systems.

    Be nodded her head in understanding, her mouth full of fries. She chewed thoughtfully and then swallowed, her eyes bright with interest. ¡°That makes sense. New York has a lot to offer, and it¡¯s closer to family.¡±

    I watched her with a fond smile as she continued to devour the fries with an enthusiasm that was both endearing and amusing. ¡°I can use you as a free babysitter,¡± I teased, recognizing that having a devoted aunt like Be would be a tremendous asset.

    Beughed, her eyes sparkling with good-natured humor. ¡°I would love to babysit. Just promise me you¡¯ll call me if the baby has an overflowing diaper.¡±

    I chuckled at the mental image and gave her an exaggerated wink. ¡°You¡¯re going to be our diaper expert, then.¡±N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.

    As we continued to munch on our food, Be¡¯s thoughts drifted back to a different time. ¡°Remember how we thought that I would be the one who got pregnant first, but look at this¡­ it¡¯s you,¡± she remarked with a chuckle.

    The memory brought a smile to my face, and I nodded in agreement. ¡°Life has a funny way of surprising us, doesn¡¯t it? But I couldn¡¯t be happier.¡±

    ¡°Well, it¡¯s a good thing I am up for babysitting duty. Your little one is going to have the best aunt in the world.¡±

    As we savored our meal at the cafeteria, the conversation flowed easily between Be and me. Be, who had always been quick-witted and full of humor, couldn¡¯t resist a yful jab in my direction.

    ¡°You know, Mia, you¡¯re going to be one of those moms who carries around a Mary Poppins bag filled with everything a child could possibly need, right?¡± she teased, a grin tugging at the corners of her lips.

    I chuckled and leaned in, ying along with her yful banter. ¡°Well, there¡¯s no doubt about that. I¡¯m already nning my checklist for diaper bags and strollers. My little one will be prepared for anything.¡±

    Beughed, shaking her head.

 55

    New York, Mia

    Today was the long-awaited day of the gender reveal party. I stood in my room, surrounded by an array of dresses and outfits, getting ready for the celebration. Sebastian could arrive at any moment to pick me up and bring me to the venue, and I wanted to look my best for this special asion.

    Be had been tirelessly preparing since early morning, making sure every detail was in ce. Just a while ago, she had left for the venue to oversee the caterers and ensure that everything would run smoothly. I knew I could count on her to make the event unforgettable.

    Excitement bubbled within me, but there was also a tinge of sadness that lingered in the background. Neither of our parents would be present at the gender reveal, a fact that tugged at my heart. I hadn¡¯t wanted Sebastian¡¯s parents there due to the forced marriage and the troublingments I had overheard from his mother. Their presence would have only added tension to the day.

    Simrly, my own family¡¯s absence was a reflection of the strained rtionship we had. It wasn¡¯t as simple as them not liking me; it was aplex web of issues that I wished could be resolved. But, for today, I had decided to focus on the people who did care about us, our friends who had be like family, and the love between Sebastian and me.

    The guest list was predominantly filled with friends, those who had supported us throughout our journey, and who had celebrated our love. It was a mix of familiar faces, all gathered to share in the joy of revealing the gender of our little one.

    I nced at myself onest time in the mirror as I slipped into a beautiful dress, its colors a secret nod to the gender we were about to discover. I wanted to look my best, not just for the guests but for Sebastian. Today was a day of happiness, of celebration, and I intended to savor every moment.

    Just as I was applying the finishing touches to my makeup, my phone chimed with a text message. I picked it up to see a message from Sebastian. He had arrived.

    A smile spread across my face as I read the message, my heart swelling with anticipation. I replied that I¡¯d be ready in a moment and hurriedly gathered my things. The room seemed to glow with excitement, and I felt a rush of happiness and nerves as I stepped out the door.

    Sebastian was waiting for me just outside, his eyes lighting up when he saw me. He looked handsome as ever in his suit, and his smile was radiant. I couldn¡¯t help but blush under his gaze.

    ¡°Wow, Mia,¡± he said, his voice filled with admiration, ¡°you look incredible.¡±

    I beamed at him, feeling the love and warmth that always washed over me when he looked at me that way. ¡°Thank you,¡± I replied, a hint of bashfulness in my tone. ¡°You don¡¯t look so bad yourself.¡±

    He chuckled, offering me his arm. ¡°Shall we go, my love?¡±This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.

    As Sebastian opened the car door for me, I was greeted by a stunning sight  a bouquet of beautiful roses, their vibrant colors and delicate petals taking my breath away. I turned to look at him, my eyes filled with surprise and gratitude.

    ¡°They are so beautiful,¡± I said, my voice tinged with awe.

    He smiled warmly at me, his eyes reflecting the affection in his heart. ¡°Just like you.¡±

    The sweetness of his words made my heart flutter as I epted the bouquet, their fragrance filling the car with a scent of love and anticipation. With the roses held close, I settled into the car, ready to embark on this unforgettable journey.

    Sebastian, ever the gentleman, began to drive us to the venue, which was just a fifteen-minute ride from our home. The excitement in the air was palpable, as we were about to reveal the gender of our baby, a moment we had been eagerly awaiting.

    ¡°Are you nervous?¡± I asked, my eyes meeting his in the rearview mirror.

    He shrugged with a hint of uncertainty in his expression. ¡°Not really, maybe a little.¡±

    I couldn¡¯t help but chuckle. It was an answer that mirrored my own feelings  a mix of excitement and apprehension, wondering if we were about to wee a boy or a girl into our lives.

    ¡°Do you think it¡¯s going to be a boy or a girl?¡± I inquired. I truly didn¡¯t have a preference; all I wished for was a healthy baby. But as is often the case, that was the answer parents gave, wasn¡¯t it?

    Sebastian¡¯s eyes were filled with tenderness as he nced at me. ¡°Doesn¡¯t matter,¡± he said with a soft smile. ¡°As long as it¡¯s a healthy baby.¡±

    I couldn¡¯t help but nod in agreement. ¡°Actually, same,¡± I replied. ¡°Health is the most important thing.¡±

    As the car pulled into the venue, we were met with a breathtaking sight. The space had been transformed into a realm of enchantment and delight. Balloons in shades of pink and blue adorned the walls and ceilings, a testament to the mystery that would soon be unveiled. Flowers of all kinds, luscious bouquets of roses, and floral arrangements adorned the tables, their fragrance filling the air with a sweet and weing scent.

    Be and Kieran, my brother, stood at the entrance, beaming with excitement. They were our hosts for this extraordinary asion, and their eyes were filled with joy as they greeted us.

    ¡°Come,e!¡± Be eximed, her enthusiasm contagious. ¡°We are so excited to reveal the gender with you!¡±

    We followed them into the venue, and the warmth and excitement of our friends and loved ones enveloped us. Hugs, smiles, and words of anticipation greeted us as we made our way through the gathering.

    As Be took the microphone, the venue fell into a hushed silence, all eyes on her. She had prepared a memorable event, and the sense of wonder and excitement was almost palpable.

    ¡°Wee, everyone,¡± Be began, her voice carrying a blend of warmth and joy. ¡°Today, we are gathered here to celebrate something truly extraordinary, the revtion of a new life. Mia and Sebastian, we have all shared in your journey, and now it¡¯s time to unveil a new chapter in your lives.¡±

    The room was filled with expectant smiles and eager anticipation, our friends and loved ones standing by our side as we approached this momentous asion.

    The energy in the room was electric as Be continued, ¡°But before we reveal the gender, we want to take a moment to acknowledge the love and support that surrounds Mia and Sebastian. They are about to be parents, and this child is already surrounded by a family that loves and cares for them deeply.¡±

    I looked at Sebastian, a warmth in my heart at the words Be spoke. We truly were blessed to have such wonderful people in our lives.

    With a graceful flourish, Be signaled to arge, decorative box in the center of the room. ¡°And now, the moment we¡¯ve all been waiting for!¡±

    As she opened the box, balloons in shades of pink and blue floated out, and our friends and loved ones watched in rapt attention, awaiting the surprise that would determine the future of our family.

    I nced at Sebastian, his hand intertwined with mine, and our eyes locked in a moment of shared love and anticipation.

    Be, with a twinkle in her eye and an enchanting smile, approached the final box. The room was filled with an air of heightened anticipation, our loved ones leaning forward in their seats. As she unveiled the contents of the box, a burst of blue balloons floated out, dancing in the air.

    ¡°It¡¯s a boy!¡± Be eximed, and the room erupted with joyous cheers and apuse. Sebastian and I shared an excited, knowing look, our hearts brimming with happiness.

 56

    Los Angeles, Sebastian

    The private jet soared through the sky, and I gazed out the window, watching the world below. The gender reveal party had just concluded, and I had to return to Los Angeles immediately due to uing meetings the next day. It was a whirlwind day, filled with excitement,ughter, and joy, as we celebrated the revtion of our baby¡¯s gender.

    Mia and I had been over the moon with happiness upon learning that we were going to have a baby boy. The thought of a little boy running around in a few months filled me with anticipation and warmth. A smile graced my face as I thought of the incredible journey thaty ahead for us as parents.

    ¡°Champagne, Mr. Thornton?¡± the flight attendant inquired, breaking me from my reverie.

    I nodded with gratitude and watched as she deftly poured champagne into a ss, setting it in front of me. I took a sip, the effervescent liquid sparkling on my pte, and leaned back in my chair. Thefort of the private jet was a weed reprieve, allowing me to savor the events of the day.

    As I rxed in my seat, my phone buzzed with a message from Patrick. I opened it, curious about the contents. He had mentioned that my mother wasn¡¯t too happy about not being invited to the gender reveal. I couldn¡¯t help but let out a sigh. The strained rtionship with my parents had yed a significant role in that decision, as well as the tension surrounding Mia¡¯s own family.

    Mia and I had chosen to exclude both our parents from the event. Their actions and words had made it clear that they held reservations about our rtionship and the impending arrival of our child. The negativity and disapproval they had expressed were not sentiments we wanted to surround ourselves with on such a special day.

    I texted Patrick back, reaffirming my stance on the matter. ¡°I know mother isn¡¯t pleased, but Mia and I agreed that it was for the best. We needed today to be about celebrating the love and support we have from our chosen family, friends, andmunity.¡±

    As I pressed send, I couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of resolve about the decisions Mia and I had made.

    As the private jet continued its journey, I had just settled into my seat and was attempting to unwind when my phone suddenly rang. The caller ID disyed my mother¡¯s name, and a feeling of dread washed over me. I knew her persistence all too well. Reluctantly, I picked up the phone because I was aware she wouldn¡¯t stop calling until I did.

    ¡°Sebastian,¡± she greeted, her voiceced with a feigned sweetness that made my eyes roll involuntarily. ¡°How are you?¡±

    I sighed inwardly, preparing myself for another one of her attempts to manipte the conversation. ¡°I¡¯m fine, Mother,¡± I replied curtly. ¡°Is there something I can do for you?¡±

    Her tone quickly shifted as she broached the topic that had been causing a rift between us. ¡°I¡¯ve heard about the gender reveal. It¡¯s sad that we, as the grandparents, aren¡¯t invited,¡± she said, her voice dripping with insincerity.

    I massaged my temples, bracing for the confrontation I knew was inevitable. ¡°Mother,¡± I said with exasperation, ¡°you don¡¯t even want the baby. You don¡¯t even like Mia. You have no reason to be invited.¡±

    She scoffed, her words veiled in hypocrisy. ¡°Sebastian Thornton, I am over the moon about that baby. The baby that you and Amanda will raise.¡±Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.

    I couldn¡¯t help but let out a resigned sigh. ¡°Mom, Amanda isn¡¯t going to raise any baby. I¡¯m not getting married to Amanda!¡± I repeated the truth for what felt like the hundredth time.

    Her tone turned judgmental as sheunched into her well-practiced speech. ¡°Oh,e on, Sebastian. Mia is a devil woman. She doesn¡¯t know how to raise a kid. She will turn the child into the devil¡¯s spawn. Amanda grew up prim and proper. She is a child of God.¡±

    A dry chuckle escaped my lips, a mix of frustration and disbelief. ¡°Don¡¯t ever call me and insult my wife, Mother,¡± I said firmly, my patience wearing thin. ¡°I promise that I will cut you out of my life forever.¡±

    There was a gasp from the other end of the line as my mother reacted with shock. ¡°Sebastian!¡± she eximed, aghast. ¡°How could you say something like that?!¡±

    I took a deep breath and, with a heavy heart, responded, ¡°Goodbye, Mother.¡±

    I ended the call and ced my phone on the table, frustration coursing through me. My head was dizzy, a mixture of anger, sadness, and exhaustion. Once again, my mother had managed to disrupt my peace and attempt to undermine my rtionship with Mia.

    As I leaned back in my seat and closed my eyes, I couldn¡¯t help but feel the weight of my mother¡¯s disapproval and her unrelenting desire to control my life. It was a battle I had been fighting for a long time, and I was determined to protect my rtionship with Mia, no matter the cost.

 57

    New York, Mia

    As the evening settled in, I found myself standing in the cozy warmth of our kitchen, a sense of contentment washing over me. Today, it was just me and Kieran for dinner, as Be was working overtime. I decided to prepare aforting meal of mashed potatoes and fried chicken, a simple yet satisfying choice.

    As I worked on the dishes, I found myself humming a tune, a melody that seemed to dance in the air. Cooking had always been a therapeutic activity for me, a way to unwind and express my creativity in the midst of everyday life.

    Just as I was about to finish up dinner preparations, my phone rang, and I saw that it was Sebastian calling. I couldn¡¯t help but smile as I answered the call. ¡°Hello.¡±

    His voice was filled with warmth and affection. ¡°What is my beautiful wife doing?¡± he inquired, his words washing over me like a gentle embrace.

    I chuckled lightly, feeling a rush of love. ¡°Just making dinner,¡± I replied. ¡°Kieran ising overter.¡±

    ¡°That sounds nice,¡± hemented. I could almost picture the soft smile on his face as he spoke. ¡°I wish I could be there to watch you make dinner.¡±

    I couldn¡¯t help butugh softly. ¡°You have the rest of your life to do that,¡± I assured him, my heart filled with anticipation for the days ahead.

    ¡°So, what are you doing?¡± I asked, curious about his day.

    He sighed, his voice carrying a hint of exhaustion. ¡°I¡¯m having pizza for dinner. I just came home after a long meeting.¡±This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.

    My heart went out to him, knowing how demanding his work could be at times. ¡°And tomorrow I have another one.¡±

    I nodded, even though he couldn¡¯t see it. ¡°Mmh, sleep early today then,¡± I suggested. ¡°You need your rest.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s what I¡¯m nning to do,¡± he said with a grateful tone. ¡°That¡¯s why I called you, to wish you goodnight.¡±

    A warmth washed over me as I felt the sincerity in his words. ¡°Alright then, goodnight, my love.¡±

    ¡°Goodnight, baby,¡± he replied, his voice filled with tenderness.

    With that, he ended the call, and I couldn¡¯t help but sigh in contentment. Though we were physically apart, moments like these made me feel closer to Sebastian, and the love between us continued to grow, despite the distance.

    With dinner freshly prepared and the kitchen cleaned up, I was ready to sit down and enjoy the meal. The aroma of mashed potatoes and crispy fried chicken filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.

    As I approached the dining area, I reached for the tes and cutlery, setting them on the table. Just as I was about to serve myself, my phone buzzed, and I nced at the screen. It was a message from Kieran, informing me that he was running a bitte and suggesting that I go ahead and start dinner without him.

    I quickly replied with an ¡°Okay¡± and then proceeded to serve a te for myself. The dishes I had prepared looked delectable, and I couldn¡¯t wait to taste them, even though I was the one who had cooked them.

    Sitting down in front of the television, I started eating, savoring the delicious vors. The mashed potatoes were creamy and rich, the chicken crispy and perfectly seasoned. I couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of pride in my culinary skills as I indulged in the satisfying meal.

    As I took thest bite and finished eating, I realized that Kieran had still not arrived. I nced at the clock and, noting the time, it seemed that he would be eventer than anticipated.

    With a sense of contentment from the meal and a hint of worry about Kieran¡¯s dy, I decided to tidy up. I walked into the kitchen, cing my te in the dishwasher, a sense of aplishment apanying my steps. The tter of dishes being stacked and the hum of the dishwasher served as aforting backdrop to my thoughts.

    With the kitchen in order, I headed upstairs. As I ascended the staircase, I couldn¡¯t help but wonder what had caused Kieran¡¯s dy.

    I felt like taking a quick shower to freshen up. I figured that if Kieran arrived in the meantime, we could simply have ice cream for dessert and enjoy a rxing evening watching a movie.

    As I stood in the bathroom, the warm water cascading over me, I couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of tranquility. The bathroom was filled with the soothing sound of running water, and I took my time, thoroughly enjoying my shower.

    Once I stepped out of the shower, I wrapped myself in a towel and began my skincare routine. Humming a song softly to myself, I couldn¡¯t help but feel at ease, despite Kieran¡¯s dyed arrival.

    However, as I continued with my routine, I noticed a sudden flickering of the lights in the bathroom. My heart skipped a beat, and I furrowed my brow in confusion. It was unusual for the lights to behave this way. What was happening?

    The flickering continued, growing more erratic, and my initial sense of curiosity quickly turned into concern. I was about to step out of the bathroom to investigate when, suddenly, everything fell dark.

    I screamed.

 58

    New York, Mia

    In the eerie darkness that surrounded me, my world was spinning out of control. I clung desperately to the sink, feeling as though it was the only anchor keeping me from being swept away by the storm that raged within my own mind.

    ¡°Help me¡­ Help me¡­¡± I whispered, my voice trembling, barely audible. My body convulsed, trembling as if caught in the grip of a fierce, unseen tempest. The memories surged forth, a relentless tide threatening to drown me.

    My breath came in ragged, shallow gasps as I was transported back in time. The memories were vivid, stark, and painful. ¡°Please, Dad, leave me alone,¡± I begged, my words trembling, as if they held the weight of a thousand sorrows.

    In the darkness, the room felt suffocating, and I saw a vivid image of my father, his presence like a looming shadow in my mind¡¯s eye. I could feel his cruel grip, his fingers tangling in my hair, as he thrust me into the foreboding, pitch-ck room. The darkness was imprable, filled with unseen horrors.

    My skin prickled as I felt the scuttling of roaches, their tiny legs crawling up my trembling limbs. The sensation was all too real, and I shuddered, wiping my hand frantically on my legs as if to rid myself of the phantom insects. The room, wherever it was, closed in on me, a ce of torment and terror.

    In my mind¡¯s eye, I saw myself, a child, my younger self. I was frail, vulnerable, and defenseless, trapped in a nightmarish world of memories. Tears streamed down my face, their salty trails cutting through the grime and the anguish.

    ¡°Please stop¡­ please stop¡­¡± I whispered, my words a desperate plea, a mantra in the darkness. But the echoes of the past showed no mercy, the memories ying out like a relentless film reel, unbidden and unending.

    My father¡¯s voice pierced the darkness, harsh and unforgiving. He was shouting, the sounds reverberating in my mind, each word a cruel strike. The walls of that wretched room seemed to close in, the confines of the past gripping me in a vice-like hold.

    I felt myself being shoved, the sharp impact of the wall against my body causing me to cry out in pain. The sensation was both vivid and surreal, as if I were reliving a nightmare that knew no end. My father¡¯s rage was a violent storm, and I was caught in its path, helpless and defenseless.

    As the blows continued, I could feel the pain surging through my body, each impact leaving a physical and emotional scar. The darkness seemed to seep into my very being, and I grew increasingly weak and disoriented.

    My limbs, once trembling with fear, grew heavy, and a numbing coldness washed over me. I felt the room spin, and the boundaries between past and present blurred. The sensations were real, but they were from a time long gone, a painful chapter of my life that I had hoped to forget.

    The darkness clung to me like a shroud, and I felt a profound sense of istion. The past had its grip on me, refusing to let go, and I could feel my body go limp as the memories continued to rey, each frame etched in the recesses of my mind.

    As the overwhelming darkness pressed in around me, a sense of dread began to take hold. I could feel myself getting dizzy, the world spinning in disorienting, terrifying patterns. Panic coursed through my veins, and I was consumed by fear. The shadows that enveloped me felt suffocating, as if they had a life of their own.

    In the midst of this engulfing darkness, I sensed something, a sinister presence, brushing against my throat. The feeling was constricting, as if a rope or some unseen force was closing in, tightening its grip. The air grew thin, and I couldn¡¯t breathe. The fear that I might be choked by this unknown entity intensified my trembling.

    ¡°Help me¡­¡± I whispered, my voice barely a murmur in the oppressive ckness. It was as if my words were swallowed by the void, and there was no one there to hear me. I felt utterly alone, lost in a nightmarishbyrinth of my own making.

    Thirst wed at my throat, a desperate need for water, but I couldn¡¯t see where to find it in this all-epassing darkness. My helplessness mounted, and I yearned for rescue, for someone toe and guide me out of this terrifying abyss.

    The distant echo of voices reached my ears, faint and indistinct, like distant whispers. They offered nofort, as they seemed impossibly far away, as if they couldn¡¯t reach me in this ce of dread. I strained to listen, to make out any semnce of help, but the voices remained elusive.

    A chilling sensation crawled up my feet, causing a scream to escape my lips. I was seized by terror, unable toprehend the source of this disturbance in the ck void. What was it? My mind raced, conjuring images of creatures lurking in the darkness, threatening to encroach on my fragile sanctuary.

    Then, from the corner of this nightmarish abyss, I saw eyes. They gleamed with an eerie, malevolent light, fixated on me with an unsettling intensity. Another scream tore from my throat as my heart pounded in my chest. What were those eyes? Were they the eyes of a malevolent creature, a rat, or something more sinister?

    I was now trembling uncontrobly, my body drenched in cold sweat. The fear had consumed me, and the darkness pressed in on all sides, relentless in its suffocating grip. The sensation of helplessness and istion was overwhelming, and I felt trapped within the depths of my own terror.

    The darkness seemed to feed my fear, amplifying it until it felt insurmountable. It was a fear that reminded me of the haunting memories I had tried to bury deep within me, memories of a time when darkness and terror were my constantpanions.

    I had a visceral reaction to this encroaching darkness, an aversion as strong as the one I held for hospitals, a ce that had been associated with the physical and emotional pain inflicted by my father. The hospital was where he would take me when his violent outbursts became too much, where he would lie to protect himself and where others would believe his deceit.

    The darkness around me mirrored the darkness of those memories, and I couldn¡¯t escape the feeling that I was being drawn back into that traumatic past. It was as if my surroundings had be a physical manifestation of my deepest fears, where helplessness and pain held me captive.

    I wanted to escape, to break free from the darkness, but it clung to me, inescapable and suffocating. I hated it, just as I hated the hospital, for the pain it represented, for the darkness it embodied.

    In the depths of my fear and despair, I clung to the hope that somehow, somewhere, a sliver of light would pierce the darkness and guide me back to safety.

    In the suffocating darkness, when all hope seemed to have abandoned me, a sudden, miraculous change urred. The oppressive ckness that had gripped me for so long was shattered as the lights burst forth, banishing the shadows. I blinked in astonishment, as if I had been thrust from a nightmare into a world of rity.

    And then, as if in a dream, I felt warm, familiar hands encircle me. They wrapped around me with a reassuring embrace, offeringfort and safety in the midst of chaos. ¡°It¡¯s alright. I¡¯m here. I¡¯m here,¡± a voice whispered, a lifeline thrown to a drowning soul.

    As my eyes slowly opened, my vision began to clear. There before me, in the gentle glow of the light, stood Kieran. He was finally here, and the sight of him was like a beacon in the darkness. I didn¡¯t hesitate for a moment. With a mixture of relief, gratitude, and love, I threw my arms around him, pulling him close in a tight, desperate hug.N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.

 59

    Los Angeles, Sebastian

    Seated at my desk in my Los Angeles office, I had just received the reassuring news from Mia that her blood test had gone well. It was a relief, and I felt a sense of calm wash over me as I concluded the phone call.

    However, my serenity was soon disrupted when my assistant entered the meeting room to inform me that my father was waiting for me in my office. With another meeting scheduled to begin in less than fifteen minutes, I hoped that this conversation would be brief. I made my way to my office, where my father sat patiently, and I greeted him with a nod.

    ¡°Dad,¡± I acknowledged, taking a seat behind my desk and gesturing for him to proceed. I was unsure of the direction this conversation would take.

    ¡°I know you are married to Mia Anderson now,¡± my father began, his tone measured andposed. I nodded in confirmation, wondering where he was heading with this discussion.

    He continued, addressing the practicalities of our situation. ¡°Your office is here in LA, and Mia lives in New York. Have you discussed living arrangements considering that your baby will be born soon?¡±

    I nodded again, my expression thoughtful. ¡°Yes, Dad, we¡¯ve talked about it. For the time being, we¡¯ve decided to settle in New York.¡±

    My father observed me, considering my response. ¡°I¡¯ve heard that you purchased a mansion in New York,¡± he mentioned, raising an eyebrow. ¡°Is there a problem with that?¡±

    I was mildly surprised by my father¡¯s interest in these details, but I answered honestly, ¡°No, there¡¯s no problem with it. I thought it would be afortable and secure ce for Mia during her pregnancy.¡±This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.

    My father nodded, his expression contemtive. ¡°I was thinking, Sebastian, that maybe we can make some changes here to amodate your needs. We could potentially move your main office to New York.¡±

    I arched an eyebrow, intrigued by the suggestion. ¡°Is that a possibility?¡± I inquired, wondering how it might impact our business operations.

    My father met my question with a determined nod. ¡°It is a possibility, and it¡¯s something we should explore. Your family is important, and we want to support you as best we can.¡±

    I appreciated the sentiment behind my father¡¯s words. While our rtionship had been strained in the past, it seemed that he was willing to adapt and amodate the changes that my marriage and impending fatherhood would bring. This was a positive step forward, and I was encouraged by his willingness to consider moving my main office to New York, where Mia and I had decided to build our family.

    ¡°Thank you, Dad,¡± I said sincerely. ¡°I appreciate your support, and I think this could be a viable solution. We¡¯ll need to discuss it further and assess the logistics, but it¡¯s good to know that the option is on the table.¡±

    My father nodded in agreement. ¡°Of course, we¡¯ll need to ensure a smooth transition, but I believe it¡¯s a step in the right direction. Your familyes first, and I¡¯m here to help make that a reality.¡±

    As my father concluded our conversation, I felt a renewed sense of gratitude for his support. It was reassuring to know that I had him on my side, especially given theplicated dynamics within our family. I watched him exit my office and turned my attention to the steaming cup of coffee and the half-eaten sandwich waiting for me.

    My father was, undoubtedly, one of the few rational and sane members of our family, alongside Patrick. While the rest of our rtives often seemed embroiled in their own dramas and agendas, my father had consistently offered a more level-headed perspective. I hoped that our coborative effort to potentially move my main office to New York was a sign of a more supportive and understanding rtionship between us.

    After enjoying a brief moment to refuel with coffee and a quick bite, I returned to myptop. Another meeting was already underway in the conference room, and I knew I had to focus on the business at hand. However, my phone rang during the meeting, and I saw that it was Patrick calling. In the midst of the discussions, I silenced the phone, intending to call him backter. There was no way to predict how long this meeting would take, and I couldn¡¯t afford any further interruptions.

    A few minutester, my assistant entered the conference room, her demeanor urgent. She gestured for me to step outside, and I excused myself from the meeting, feeling slightly frustrated by the series of interruptions.

    ¡°What is it?¡± I asked, my patience wearing thin due to the ongoing distractions. I wanted this meeting to proceed smoothly and efficiently.

    ¡°Patrick is on the phone,¡± she informed me with a sense of urgency. ¡°He insists that it¡¯s urgent and requests to speak with you.¡±

    I let out an exasperated sigh, knowing that Patrick wouldn¡¯t make such a request lightly. I followed my assistant back to my office, where I took the phone from her, preparing to speak with my brother.

    ¡°Yes, brother,¡± I greeted him with a mix of curiosity and concern, anticipating that something significant must have prompted his call.

    ¡°I need you toe to New York, and bring Mia with you to my office,¡± Patrick¡¯s voice came through the line, firm and resolute. ¡°It¡¯s important.¡±

 60

    New York, Mia

    As soon as I hung up with Sebastian, I felt a wave of confusion wash over me. His call had left me with more questions than answers. He had urged me to get ready because he was on his way to pick me up, and when I pressed for details, all he had said was that Patrick had called him, emphasizing the urgency of our visit. My mind raced with possibilities, and my heart pounded in my chest.

    With a sense of trepidation, I decided to heed Sebastian¡¯s advice. I hurriedly took a quick shower, hastily bundling my damp hair into a bun, and opted for a loose-fitting blouse andfortable pants. There was no time to deliberate over fashion choices; the urgency of the situation took precedence.

    I made my way to the kitchen, my nerves manifesting in the nervous energy that had me pacing back and forth. My anxiety was palpable, and to help calm my racing heart, I poured myself a ss of orange juice. Be was seated in the living room, engrossed in the task of doing her nails.

    ¡°Do you have any idea why Sebastian ising?¡± she inquired, her curiosity piqued. She had overheard my conversation with him earlier and sensed the urgency in his tone.

    ¡°It¡¯s rted to Patrick,¡± I replied, my voice trembling slightly as I struggled to make sense of the situation. ¡°I think he may have found out who the stalker is.¡±

    Be let out a frustrated sigh, echoing my impatience. ¡°It¡¯s about time,¡± shemented, her wordsden with a mixture of relief and exasperation. The ongoing ordeal with the stalker had weighed on both of us, and any news of progress was wee.

    My phone suddenly emitted a notification sound, and I nced down to see that it was a message from Sebastian. ¡°He¡¯s already here,¡± I ryed to Be, my anxiety intensifying as I grabbed my bag and prepared to leave.

    ¡°Keep me updated,¡± Be called out, her concern evident in her tone. I nodded in acknowledgment, promising to share any information as soon as I had it, and then headed outside, where Sebastian was waiting for me.

    The drive to Patrick¡¯s location was marked by a tense silence. Sebastian was visibly preupied, and I couldn¡¯t me him. The urgency of the situation and the potential revtion about the stalker¡¯s identity had us both on edge. I found myself fidgeting with the hem of my blouse, unable to shake the nerves that had settled deep in my chest.

    When we arrived at our destination, Patrick was already waiting for us. His expression was a mix of determination and seriousness, a stark departure from his usual jovial demeanor. We all exchanged brief greetings, and then Patrick wasted no time in getting to the point.Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.

    ¡°I¡¯ve found out who the stalker is,¡± he announced, his voice steady butced with a sense of gravity. My heart leaped in my chest, and I exchanged a quick nce with Sebastian, who mirrored my anticipation.

    Patrick continued, ¡°I¡¯ve been working with a private investigator for weeks, and we finally got a breakthrough. The stalker is someone we know. Someone close to us.¡±

    My mind raced as I tried to process the revtion. The stalker, someone close to us? The possibilities swirled through my mind, and I couldn¡¯t help but feel a surge of unease. Patrick¡¯s gaze rested on us, and it was clear that he was preparing to drop a bombshell.

    ¡°Who is it?¡± Sebastian demanded, his toneced with a mix of anger and apprehension.

    As Patrick led us into a room filled with papers, photographs, and an air of solemnity, I felt my heart pounding in my chest. This had to be his office, a space where he had tirelessly worked on uncovering the truth behind our stalker¡¯s identity. I exchanged a nervous nce with Sebastian, who mirrored my anxiety.

    ¡°I don¡¯t think you will like it. I don¡¯t,¡± Patrick warned, his expression grave. He threw a file onto a cluttered desk, and I couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of foreboding. Patrick¡¯s somber demeanor only heightened my apprehension.

    Sebastian reached for the file with trembling fingers, the tension in the room palpable. ¡°How bad is it?¡± he asked, his voice tinged with worry.

    ¡°Really bad,¡± Patrick whispered, his voice heavy with the weight of what he was about to reveal.

    From the corner of my eye, I noticed Sophia entering the room. Her presence offered a source of quiet support, her hand resting on my shoulder in silent reassurance. She, too, had an inkling of what wasing, judging by her somber expression.

    Patrick turned on hisputer, and the room filled with the hum of its startup. He began clicking through files and images, and a name and a picture shed onto the screen. My stomach clenched as I beheld the face of the person responsible for the torment we had endured.

    ¡°It¡¯s not just one person,¡± Patrick revealed, his voice steady. ¡°It¡¯s three people.¡±

    As he continued, my mind struggled to grasp the enormity of what he was saying. The man in the picture, Maddox Imogan, had been the one who had carried out the sinister actions-shooting the security guard, vandalizing the apartments, breaking in, and delivering the death threats. He already had a criminal record, which made him a prime suspect.

    ¡°But,¡± Patrick emphasized, the gravity of his words settling heavily in the room, ¡°he was not the mastermind behind all of this.¡±

    Sebastian and I exchanged a bewildered nce, our minds racing to process the new revtions. The stalker¡¯s true architects were none other than thest people we expected-Gavin Campbell, my ex-husband, and Elena Thornton, Sebastian¡¯s own mother

 61

    New York, Sebastian

    The overwhelming surge of anger coursing through my veins was unlike anything I had ever experienced. My hands clenched into fists as I hurled the damning evidence onto the table in front of me, a physical manifestation of the rage that consumed me.

    ¡°Don¡¯t tell me this is true, Patrick!¡± I seethed through gritted teeth, my voiceced with incredulity. ¡°Our mother?!¡±

    Patrick let out a heavy sigh, a shared weariness evident in his expression. ¡°That¡¯s exactly how I felt, brother, when I found out.¡±

    The revtion was almost too much to bear. I could have expected this treacherous deception from Gavin Campbell, Mia¡¯s conniving ex-husband, but the fact that my own mother, Elena Thornton, had yed a role in orchestrating this campaign of harassment left me reeling. She had raised me, cared for me, and, above all, was meant to protect me.N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.

    My heart pounded erratically in my chest, and all I could see was red-a fiery haze of anger and disbelief that clouded my judgment. I felt as if my world had been turned upside down, and the betrayal I felt cut deeper than anything I had ever experienced. The mere thought that my mother had been capable of such malevolence was almost too much to bear.

    Mia, ever the calming presence, tried to soothe my frayed nerves, her hand gently resting on my arm. But my mind was a storm of emotions, and in that moment, I had no desire to be cated. All I wanted was an outlet for the seething fury that roared within me.

    The room seemed to close in around us as my emotions threatened to spiral out of control. Patrick¡¯s revtion had unearthed a web of deceit that had ensnared us all, and the reality of the situation was staggering. It was almost too much to bear, and my own mother¡¯s involvement in the torment we had endured was a bitter pill to swallow.

    I rose from my seat, my angerpelling me to act, and I began pacing back and forth. My clenched fists trembled with the intensity of my emotions, and I found myself on the verge of a breakdown. The realization that my mother had yed a part in the torment of the woman I loved and the potential harm to our unborn child was a betrayal that rocked me to my core.

    ¡°I can¡¯t believe this,¡± I muttered under my breath, my voice strained. ¡°My own mother¡­ How could she?¡±

    My mind was a swirling tempest of confusion and anger, and I felt like I couldn¡¯t trust anyone anymore. The revtion that my own mother had been involved in the torment we had endured had shaken me to my core. As I grappled with the shocking truth, I found myself lost in a haze of disbelief.

    My brother Patrick tried to calm me, and his seemingly unwaveringposure only fueled my frustration. ¡°How can you be so calm?¡± I demanded, my voiceced with incredulity.

    ¡°I have already expressed my rage before you arrived,¡± Patrick exined, his tone measured. ¡°That¡¯s why I couldn¡¯t tell you over the phone. I knew you would react strongly, and we don¡¯t want this reaction caught by the paparazzi.¡±

    I attempted to take deep breaths, but my emotions were like a relentless storm surging within me. All I could see was red, and my thoughts were consumed by anger, betrayal, and the desire for justice.

    ¡°Calm down, Sebastian,¡± Mia¡¯s calming voice pierced through the turmoil, and her presence offered a lifeline in the tempest of my emotions. She was the one constant I could hold onto, the person who could quell the storm inside me.

    ¡°Arrest them,¡± I whispered, my voice trembling with rage. I couldn¡¯t fathom allowing Gavin Campbell, Mia¡¯s treacherous ex-husband, and Elena Thornton, my own mother, to escape ountability for the pain and suffering they had inflicted on us.

    Patrick moved closer to me, his eyes locked onto mine. ¡°What, brother?¡± he inquired, as if seeking confirmation.

    ¡°Arrest them!¡± I bellowed, my voice echoing with determination. The only way to bring closure to this nightmare was to ensure that those responsible faced the consequences of their actions.

    Even if the one responsible was my birth giver.

 62

    New York, Mia

    The weight of the shocking events of the day bore down on me as I entered the house, and the first thing I noticed was the somber atmosphere. Be opened the door for me, concern etched on her face. Kieran was seated in the living room, and Be¡¯s flustered demeanor hinted at the intensity of the news.N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.

    ¡°Are you alright?¡± Be inquired, her voice filled with sympathy.

    I took a deep breath and nodded, though the turmoil in my mind was far from settled. ¡°Yes, I am. I didn¡¯t know Kieran was here.¡±

    Kieran, usually a man of few words, spoke up. ¡°I just came by after hearing the news.¡±

    I sighed heavily, the gravity of the situation settling in. ¡°It¡¯s all over the news,¡± Be remarked, her voice reflecting her shock and dismay.

    I nodded again, unable to deny the truth. ¡°It¡¯s true.¡±

    Kieran couldn¡¯t contain his anger. ¡°This is so messed up. His own mother and your ex-husband were behind all of this? How cruel can they be?¡±

    I didn¡¯t have an answer to that question. The magnitude of the betrayal weighed heavily on my shoulders. My thoughts raced, attempting to process the unbelievable truth. How could people we had known and trusted orchestrate such a horrific ordeal?

    I could see the toll it was taking on Sebastian and Patrick. They were doing their best to maintain a facade ofposure, but I knew that beneath the surface, they were struggling to cope with the revtions. It was a cruel twist of fate that had allowed our tormentors to remain hidden for so long, all the while exploiting our trust.

    As I took a seat on the couch, I felt drained, my mind a whirlwind of emotions. The ordeal had left scars that wouldn¡¯t heal overnight. The trust I once held for certain people had been irrevocably shattered.

    ¡°Can I have a ss of water, please?¡± I requested, trying to ease the tension that had settled in my throat.

    Be nodded, her understanding gaze never leaving me. She fetched a ss of water and handed it to me, her silent supportforting in a time of chaos.

    I took a sip of water, attempting to clear my head, but it was a daunting task. It would take time to process the full extent of the betrayal and deceit we had endured.

    ¡°Sebastian had to return to Los Angeles,¡± I said, breaking the silence that had settled in the room. ¡°His mother was arrested, and his father demanded to see both him and Patrick.¡±

    Be and Kieran exchanged nces, their concern deepening. The situation had taken a heavy toll on our lives, and the aftermath was equally tumultuous.

    Kieran shifted ufortably in his seat. ¡°I can¡¯t believe this, Mia. It¡¯s like something out of a movie, but worse. How could they do this?¡±

    My own thoughts mirrored his disbelief. ¡°I don¡¯t know, Kieran. But we¡¯re all going to have to find a way to move forward.¡±

    Be, ever the voice of reason, spoke up. ¡°The most important thing is that it¡¯s over. They can¡¯t hurt you anymore, Mia.¡±

    I knew she was right, and a sense of relief began to wash over me. But the scars left behind by the ordeal would take time to heal. I couldn¡¯t help but wonder how we would rebuild our lives in the wake of such betrayal and heartache.

    Feeling mentally and emotionally drained, I decided it was time to retreat to the sce of my bedroom. The day¡¯s revtions had taken their toll, and all I desired was a moment of respite.

    ¡°Goodnight, and don¡¯t think too much,¡± Be offered herforting words as I prepared to leave.

    With a heavy sigh, I responded, ¡°Thank you. I¡¯ll try not to.¡±

    Kieran nodded in understanding, and I wished them all a peaceful night before heading to my room. The weight of the day was inescapable, but I hoped that sleep would provide a brief reprieve from the tumultuous events.

    In my bedroom, I quickly indulged in a soothing shower, allowing the warm water to wash away the day¡¯s turmoil. As the events of the day reyed relentlessly in my mind, I couldn¡¯t escape the whirlwind of emotions they stirred within me.

    I followed my skincare routine, the familiar ritual providing a semnce of normalcy in a world suddenly upended. The events and revtions had left me with a profound sense of unease, and I longed for the blissful oblivion of sleep.

    d infortable pajamas, I slid beneath the covers of my bed, yearning for a sense of peace that felt increasingly elusive. It was customary for me to call Sebastian before retiring for the night, but I sensed that he was ensnared by the same disquiet that had gripped me.

    Attempting to reach out to him, I dialed his number, but my call went unanswered. Knowing that he was embroiled in dealing with the aftermath of the day¡¯s events, I didn¡¯t press further. There was an unspoken understanding between us that our respective responsibilities often took precedence.

    As Iy in bed, the haunting memories and unsettling revtions reyed incessantly in my mind. The betrayal we had suffered was unimaginable, and the scars it had left were still raw.

    Despite my desire for reprieve, I couldn¡¯t escape the grip of the past. The darkness that had overshadowed our lives for so long was slowly dissipating, but it had left asting impact. The web of deceit, betrayal, and torment had been unraveled, but the wounds it had inflicted would take time to heal.

    My mind was a relentless torrent of thoughts, making it challenging to find sce in the embrace of sleep. Yet, the fatigue that had been umting throughout the day eventually overcame my racing thoughts.

    Gradually, I felt myself slipping into a state of rest, the tumultuous events of the day losing their grip on my consciousness.

 63

    Los Angeles, Sebastian

    The silence hung heavy in the air as Patrick and Inded in Los Angeles. It waste in the evening, and the city¡¯s lights glow dimly beneath us, a stark contrast to the chaos that had unfolded in our lives. The truth had finally emerged, and it was more unbelievable than anything we could have imagined.

    Our mother, the woman who had raised us, nurtured us, and watched us grow, was now detained in a police station, exposed as a part of the sinister conspiracy that had tormented Mia and I for so long. It was a chilling revtion, one that had already made headlines, as the media hungrilytched onto the shocking story.

    But as the paparazzi and news outlets mored for details and sought to uncover every sordid detail of our family¡¯s turmoil, I found myself strangely apathetic to their relentless pursuits. The truth was out there, and it was a relief to see our tormentors exposed for who they truly were.

    Patrick and I drove to the nearby police station in a somber silence, each lost in our own thoughts. The weight of the day¡¯s revtions bore down on us, leaving us with an eerie sense of detachment. It was as if we had entered a different reality, one in which our family¡¯s darkest secrets had beenid bare.

    As we pulled up to the police station, I noticed my father¡¯s car parked in front. It was a rare sight, given our strained rtionship and the emotional chasm that had grown between us. Together, Patrick and I entered the station, our footsteps echoing in the stark, fluorescent-lit corridors.

    Our father sat in the waiting area, nked by hiswyer. The tension in the room was palpable, a reflection of the turmoil that had engulfed our family.

    ¡°Father,¡± we both greeted, a strained acknowledgment of our shared ordeal.

    He nodded in response, his features a mix of resignation and weariness. It was an unfamiliar sight, one that spoke of the gravity of the situation. The man who had once held such authority in our lives now seemed diminished, a mere shadow of his former self.

    ¡°I¡¯ve been briefed,¡± our father stated, his voice hoarse. ¡°We should proceed with the necessary legal steps. I¡¯ll ensure Elena has the best representation.¡±

    Patrick and I exchanged a nce, understanding that this was a matter of necessity rather thanpassion. Our mother¡¯s arrest was not only a personal blow but also a matter of public interest, given her involvement in the torment we had endured.

    ¡°I agree,¡± I said, my voice steady but devoid of warmth. ¡°It¡¯s crucial that the legal process unfolds as it should.¡±

    Our father¡¯swyer nodded in agreement, taking note of our collective decision.

    The tension in the room reached its breaking point as my mother was escorted in. She entered with an air of indifference, her demeanor unshaken by the gravity of the situation. Her eyes, devoid of remorse, met mine.

    I couldn¡¯t contain the question that had been burning within me. ¡°Why did you do this, mother?¡± I asked, my voice a mixture of disbelief and anguish.

    She regarded me with an icy detachment. ¡°I will not let you be with that devil girl,¡± she hissed, her wordsden with spite. ¡°I only want what is best for you, Sebastian.¡±

    My father, who had been quietly observing, shot her a re. ¡°Keep quiet, Elena,¡± he admonished, his toneced with frustration. ¡°You have already tarnished our name.¡±

    But she was far from cowed. A chilling, humorlessugh escaped her lips. ¡°Tarnished? Me? It¡¯s your son who tarnished our name when he slept with that whore,¡± she spat out, her voice venomous. ¡°Now she carries the devil¡¯s spawn.¡±

    The room seemed to freeze as the venomous words hung in the air. Her usation, a cruel and unfounded assault on Mia, incensed me. I couldn¡¯t let such nder go unchallenged. ¡°You will not talk like that about my wife!¡± I hissed, my anger barely contained. ¡°You are a cruel person. You are the devil!¡±

    My father, unable to bear the tension any longer, abruptly intervened. With a single motion, he threw a stack of papers onto the table in front of my mother. Her eyes flicked to the documents, her expression a mix of confusion and disbelief.N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.

    ¡°What is this?¡± she inquired, a hint of nervousness finally creeping into her tone.

    My father regarded her coldly. ¡°These are divorce papers, Elena,¡± he stated with a determined finality. ¡°We are getting a divorce.¡±

    It was as if the world had shifted on its axis. My mother¡¯s haughty demeanor faltered for a brief moment, reced by genuine shock. The words reverberated in the room, a stark confirmation that our family had irrevocably fractured.

    The revtion seemed to seep into her, and a myriad of emotions yed across her face: disbelief, anger, and finally, a stark awareness of the consequences of her actions. She had overyed her hand, and the price of her vendetta was the disintegration of her family.

    Yet, the true nature of her betrayal ran deeper than divorce papers and the crumbling of our family. My mother¡¯s actions had torn apart the fabric of our lives and left scars that would take time to heal.

 64

    New York, Mia

    The sun¡¯s gentle morning rays streamed into the room, awakening me with their warmth. I rose from bed, determined to face the new day, although the events of the previous day continued to weigh on my mind.

    After a refreshing shower and my daily skincare routine, I made my way to my closet to select an outfit for the day. Today was a day off from work; I needed some time to process and recover from the recent turmoil.

    With my outfit decided, I moved on to doing my hair. The simple routine helped ground me and prepare for the day ahead. As I descended the stairs, the irresistible aroma of freshly made pancakes and waffles greeted me. My stomach couldn¡¯t help but rumble in response.

    Be was in the kitchen, busy at the stove, flipping pancakes with expert precision. The delicious smells tantalized my senses, and I couldn¡¯t help but express my delight. ¡°Yum,¡± I eximed, relishing the mouthwatering scent.

    I headed to the coffee maker to prepare my morning brew. Theforting gurgling of the coffee maker echoed in the kitchen as it worked its magic. Be¡¯s question broke through my thoughts.

    ¡°Did you have a good sleep?¡± she inquired, concern evident in her eyes.

    I nodded, still somewhat preupied with the events of the previous day. ¡°It was good,¡± I replied, though not as sound as some other nights. The strain of recent revtions still lingered in my mind.

    ¡°You¡¯re not going to work today, right?¡± Be asked, ncing over at me as she flipped a pancake.

    I shook my head and leaned against the counter. ¡°No, I think it¡¯s best if I take the day off,¡± I admitted. I needed some space and time to absorb everything that had happened.

    Be seemed to understand the need for a break. ¡°Good,¡± she said, focusing on her pancake flipping. ¡°The paparazzi will definitely be on your case. It¡¯s better toy low for a while.¡±

    My coffee was finally ready, and I poured us each a cup. Be, now finished with the pancakes, brought them over to the table. I took our tes, set them down, and we began to serve ourselves. The stack of fluffy pancakes and crispy waffles was the kind offort food that we both needed.

    As we began to eat, the taste of Be¡¯s homemade breakfast filled my senses. The sweetness of maple syrup and the warm, buttery notes of the pancakes offered a moment of serenity amid the chaos that had recently gripped our lives.

    While Be and I were savoring our meal, the atmosphere was pleasant, and the kitchen cozy ambiance enveloped us. However, our peaceful moment was abruptly interrupted by the sudden, jarring ring of my phone. ncing at the screen, I noticed ¡°No Caller ID¡± shing ominously. I couldn¡¯t help but furrow my brows in confusion.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.

    I showed Be the screen, her eyebrows mirroring my concern. ¡°Should I pick it up?¡± I hesitated, seeking her advice. She responded with a nonchnt shrug, leaving the decision entirely up to me.

    My curiosity gnawed at me. Who on earth would call without revealing their caller ID? It was an unsettling mystery, and I debated whether to answer. After a moment¡¯s contemtion, I decided to go ahead and pick up the call, my curiosity outweighing my apprehension. ¡°Hello,¡± I answered, my voice tinged with uncertainty.

    The voice that greeted me on the other end was all too familiar, and my heart plummeted as I recognized it to be my father¡¯s. ¡°You little whore!¡± His words sliced through the air,den with anger and disdain. ¡°You put Campbell in jail!¡± The usation hung heavy in the line.

    A shiver ran down my spine. I hadn¡¯t expected this venomous reaction from my own father. Struggling to maintain myposure, I tried to exin, ¡°He harassed me, Father.¡± It was hard to believe he would side with Gavin, given everything that had happened.

    My father¡¯s response was a torrent of rage. ¡°You cheated on him, you whore! You¡¯re carrying another man¡¯s child! You divorced Gavin and still think you¡¯re better?! And now you¡¯ve put him in jail! Wasn¡¯t breaking his heart bad enough?¡± His words were like a cascade of cruelty, each sentence more cutting than thest.

    Tears welled up in my eyes as I listened to his tirade. ¡°You are such a worthless piece of shit!¡± He continued, his voice escting to a deafening crescendo. ¡°If I see you¡­ I will kill you!!¡± With that ominous threat, he abruptly ended the call, leaving me trembling and distraught.

    My head spun, and my heart raced in my chest. The intensity of my father¡¯s anger was overwhelming, and I couldn¡¯t believe that he had taken Gavin¡¯s side after everything that had transpired. It was a betrayal that cut deeply, leaving me feeling isted and vulnerable.

    Be, who had been a silent witness to the entire conversation, rushed to my side and took my hand in hers. Her touch was aforting anchor in the midst of this storm. ¡°Hey, Mia¡­ don¡¯t listen to him. He¡¯s just talking, alright?¡± She whispered, her voice soothing.

    I closed my eyes, trying to regain myposure. My mind was filled with a whirlwind of emotions, and I couldn¡¯t help but wonder what I had done to deserve such a bully for a father. The tears I had been holding back began to flow, and I let Be¡¯s support wash over me.

    I couldn¡¯t believe the depth of animosity that had developed between my father and me. It was a bitterness that had festered for years, gradually eroding what little connection we once had. The very idea of a father¡¯s love seemed like an elusive dream, a concept I had never truly known.

    My father had transformed from a parental figure, a source of protection and guidance, into my biggest adversary. I couldn¡¯t fathom how it hade to this, how a familial bond had fractured to such an extent. It was as if we were on opposing sides of an irreparable divide.

    The mere thought of him filled me with dread, and I would flinch at the sound of his voice or the prospect of another heated exchange. It was a continuous battle, one that had be a part of my everyday life. No matter how many times I reyed our conversations and encounters, I couldn¡¯tprehend how things had deteriorated to this point.

    The most bewildering aspect of it all was that, in my mind, I was the victim. Gavin, my ex-husband, had put me through a tumultuous rtionship, filled with betrayal, emotional abuse, and heartache. It was the kind of rtionship that left scars, not only on my heart but on my very identity.

    Yet, against all reason, my father had chosen to side with Gavin. He had ignored my suffering, the tears I had shed, and the emotional turmoil I had endured. Instead, he had embraced Gavin, treating him as if he were the wronged party. It was a harsh and inexplicable betrayal, one that had left me feeling isted and betrayed in my own family.

    Rubbing my tummy gently, I sought sce in the presence of my unborn child. At least my baby would never have to experience this twisted dynamic. My child would grow up in an environment filled with love, warmth, and understanding, far removed from the hostility that had taken root in my rtionship with my father.

    As I contemted the future, I made a solemn vow to myself. I would never be anything like my father. I would break the cycle of animosity, ensuring that my child knew love, support, and eptance. I wanted to be the parent I had never had, one who provided unwavering care and a safe haven in a world that could often be harsh and unforgiving.

 65

    New York, Mia

    Today was a special day. Sebastian was flying into New York to see me, and we had ns to get breakfast together. As I got ready in my room, I couldn¡¯t help but feel an overwhelming sense of anticipation. It had been nearly three weeks since I had seen himst, and those weeks had been filled with the chaos of his busy life  packed with meetings, business responsibilities, and the emotional toll of dealing with his mother¡¯s court trials. But today, he had finally managed to carve out some time for us, taking a well-deserved day off to share breakfast with me.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.

    As I contemted my appearance, deciding on the perfect hairstyle, Be entered my room, a warm smile gracing her face. She carried a tray with a steaming cup of coffee. ¡°Enjoy your breakfast date today,¡± she said, her voice filled with genuine happiness for me. I returned her smile, grateful for her presence in my life. ¡°Have a good day at work,¡± I told her, waving her goodbye.

    I proceeded to finish styling my hair and applying makeup, all the while my heart racing with excitement. I chose a lovely dress that elegantly showcased my small baby bump, a constant reminder of the beautiful future Sebastian and I were eagerly anticipating. After checking myself in the mirror, I packed a bag with some essentials, just in case.

    It was precisely at that moment that my phone chimed with a message from Sebastian, letting me know that he had arrived outside. My heart skipped a beat as I grabbed my bag and headed out to meet him. Opening the door, I found him standing there, his warm smile immediately melting away the separation of the past few weeks. He leaned in, cing a gentle kiss on my lips.

    ¡°I¡¯ve missed you,¡± he said, his voice brimming with genuine affection and longing.

    ¡°I¡¯ve missed you too,¡± I replied, my heart swelling with warmth. We held hands as we made our way to the car, ready to embark on our breakfast date.

    During the car ride, Sebastian filled me in on the events of the past three weeks. He exined that his parents were going through a difficult time and that his father had recently divorced his mother who was currently serving time in prison. This revtion brought a mix of emotions. Divorces were never easy, even if the wife was a criminal, but Sebastian¡¯s exnation painted a different picture. He disclosed that his father¡¯s motivation for the divorce was to build better rtionships with his sons, including Sebastian, and to be more involved in their lives and the lives of their future children.

    I couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of relief upon hearing this. It was heartening to know that his father was taking such a step to be closer to his family, even if it came through a significant life change. As I rested my hand on my baby bump, I felt a sense of gratitude that our child would have a grandfather who was willing to be a part of their life, just as Sebastian was eager to be a part of ours.

    The breakfast shop we arrived at was a charming haven, basking in the golden morning light. It was one of those delightful ces that remained a well-kept secret, not yet overrun by the hustle and bustle of city life. The atmosphere exuded coziness, and the scent of freshly brewed coffee and warm, toasted bread enveloped the space.

    Sebastian, ever the gentleman, opened the door for me, and I stepped out of the car. His hand found mine, and together, we strolled into the weing embrace of the cafe. The interior was just as inviting as the exterior, with soft lighting and the muted hum of conversation.

    We settled into a table, and a friendly waiter appeared, cing menus before us. I scanned the options, the choices as enticing as the aroma wafting from the kitchen. Eventually, I decided on a cappino and a club sandwich, abination offort and indulgence that felt just right for the asion.

    Once we had ced our orders, I started sharing the events of the past week with Sebastian. I spoke about my work, the projects I had been immersed in, and the challenges that came with it. As I talked, I couldn¡¯t help but think about my father¡¯s phone call earlier in the day, the stark reminder of the difficult childhood I had endured.

    Sebastian listened attentively, his warm gaze fixed on me as he held my hand beneath the table. His touch was grounding, a source of strength and support in that moment. When I finally mentioned my father, his expression softened, and he gently stroked my hand.

    ¡°I am so sorry you had a¡­ difficult childhood,¡± he said, choosing his words with care.

    I smiled softly, appreciating his empathy. ¡°It¡¯s okay,¡± I replied, my voiceced with resilience. ¡°I¡¯m over it. I¡¯ve moved on, and now I just want my baby to have the best of the best.¡± The thought of our child¡¯s arrival filled me with a sense of purpose and determination. I wanted to ensure that they would have a loving and nurturing environment, a stark contrast to the challenges I had faced in my own upbringing.

    Sebastian nodded, his gaze unwavering. ¡°Trust me, our baby will be spoiled rotten,¡± he dered with a yful grin, his eyes sparkling with affection.

    I couldn¡¯t help butugh, the warmth of his words wrapping around me like aforting embrace. In that instant, I realized how fortunate I was to have him by my side, not only as a partner but as a father to our child. He was a source of unwavering support and love, and together, we would create a future filled with happiness and abundance for our growing family.

    As we awaited our breakfast, the sense of peace and contentment settled over us. It was a moment of respite from the chaos of life, a reminder of the simple joys found in a warm cup of coffee and a delicious sandwich shared with someone you loved.

    Our food arrived, and the delightful aroma filled the air, tantalizing my senses. The sight of the steaming cappino and the mouthwatering club sandwich was almost too much to bear. My anticipation had reached its peak, and I couldn¡¯t wait to dig in.

    As I reached for my coffee, the cup¡¯s warmth embracing my hands, the door of the breakfast shop swung open, and a chilling draft of air swept through the room. I turned to see who had entered, and my heart plummeted. There, standing in the doorway, was my father.

    Time seemed to freeze as our eyes locked. His gaze, initially cold and piercing, darkened with fury when he saw me. My hands trembled, and the cup of coffee nearly slipped from my grasp. It was a moment I had hoped would nevere  an unexpected, unwee encounter with a man who had caused me so much pain.

    In that instant, anger and fear coursed through my veins. I wanted nothing more than to turn away and avoid the confrontation, but it was toote. My father was moving toward our table with determined, thunderous steps. Panic bubbled up inside me as I felt the room¡¯s collective gaze shift toward us, the tension in the air palpable.

    Before I could react, my father reached our table and, with a swift, shocking motion, he pped me. The impact was a searing burst of pain on my cheek, and I could feel my head spin from the force of the blow. Stars seemed to form in front of my eyes as my head collided with the table¡¯s edge, and then everything went ck.

 66

    New York, Mia

    Amidst the chaos, I could hear distant voices. They seemed to be calling out my name, a faint murmur in the background. For some reason, I couldn¡¯t seem to open my eyes, as if I were trapped in a state of half-consciousness. Panic began to well up within me. What was happening? Why couldn¡¯t I wake up fully?

    The voices persisted, growing slightly louder, but they remained muffled, as though they were separated from me by some insurmountable barrier. I strained to make out the words, and they did indeed sound like my name being called. It was a disorienting experience, as if I were caught in some surreal dream.

    Then, suddenly, I felt it-a cold ssh of water on my face. It was like a shock to my system, and my eyes snapped open. The world around me swirled in a blurry haze, and I struggled to make sense of what was happening.

    As my vision slowly cleared, I realized that people were standing around me. Through the confusion and dizziness, I recognized Sebastian, his concerned face hovering over me. His strong hands supported my head, and I felt a sense of grounding and security in his presence.

    ¡°Mia¡­ oh God, you¡¯re awake, baby,¡± he said, his voice filled with relief and worry. It was a stark contrast to the anger and violence I had witnessed earlier.

    Confusion gnawed at me. ¡°What happened?¡± I asked, my voice quivering with uncertainty. My memory was fragmented, and I needed answers.

    Sebastian scoffed, a mix of frustration and anger in his tone. ¡°Your father happened,¡± he replied, his eyes reflecting his disdain for the man who had caused this chaos.

    With great effort, I attempted to sit up, but my head still spun, and I was forced to lie back down. ¡°Careful, baby,¡± Sebastian cautioned, his hand gently pressing against my shoulder to keep me still.

    The question that weighed heavily on my mind finally escaped my lips. ¡°Where is he?¡± I asked, my wordsing out groggily, like a fog slowly lifting.

    Sebastian¡¯s eyes met mine, his gaze filled with a mix of determination and reassurance. ¡°He¡¯s at the police station. He¡¯s getting locked up for public harassment,¡± he exined, and I could hear the satisfaction in his voice. ¡°You¡¯re safe now.¡±

    As the fog in my mind began to dissipate, I realized that the entire cafe had fallen into an eerie silence, the other patrons casting curious and concerned nces in my direction. The sudden and violent interruption of their morning had left them shocked, and my presence on the floor seemed to captivate their attention.

    Sensing that I had be the center of attention, I felt a growing unease. I wanted nothing more than to leave this ce and escape the judgmental gazes. ¡°Can we go?¡± I asked Sebastian, my voice wavering with difort.

    Without hesitation, Sebastian nodded. ¡°Let¡¯s go,¡± he said, his protective instincts kicking in. He helped me to my feet, and I leaned against him for support as we made our way towards the exit, leaving behind the unsettling silence of the cafe.

    The car ride was mostly silent as we made our way through the city. I sat in my seat, lost in my thoughts, still reeling from the unexpected encounter with my father. Sebastian, his concern evident, broke the silence.

    ¡°Are you alright?¡± he asked, his voice filled with worry.

    I nodded slowly, the pain from the p on my cheek having dulled somewhat. ¡°It doesn¡¯t hurt as much now,¡± I admitted, my voice still tinged with difort.

    Sebastian¡¯s eyes remained focused on the road, but I could sense his presence, his unwavering support. ¡°Do you want to get ice cream?¡± he asked, the suggestion offering a sweet distraction from the day¡¯s turmoil.

    The idea of ice cream soundedforting, a simple pleasure in the midst of chaos. ¡°Yes,¡± I replied, my voice carrying a hint of gratitude, and Sebastian veered towards a nearby ice cream shop.

    We stepped out of the car and made our way inside the quaint little shop. The aroma of freshly churned ice cream enveloped us, and for a brief moment, I could forget the turmoil that had transpired earlier.

    ¡°What¡¯s your favorite vor?¡± Sebastian inquired as we approached the counter.

    ¡°Pistachio,¡± I replied, smiling at the thought of the nutty, green-hued treat.

    Sebastian raised an eyebrow, humor dancing in his eyes. ¡°Yours?¡±

    ¡°Vani,¡± he said, offering a sheepish smile. ¡°I know, it¡¯s pretty basic.¡±

    I couldn¡¯t help but tease him. ¡°Sorry, Mr. Vani,¡± I said, rolling my eyes yfully.

    He chuckled, hisughter infectious. ¡°Alright, Ms. Pistachio, let¡¯s get our ice cream.¡±

    We left the shop, each with our chosen vors in hand, ready to enjoy a moment of simple indulgence. But as we stepped out, the serenity was shattered by the blinding shes of cameras. The paparazzi had found us.

    Their voices bombarded us from all sides, a relentless onught of questions and usations. I felt a sudden, overwhelming pressure, and my brain seemed tog as it tried to process it all.

    Sebastian, acting quickly, grabbed me by the upper arm and guided me towards the car. It was a grounding touch, a lifeline in the chaos. With a sense of urgency, he helped me into the vehicle, and we sped away from the crowd of reporters, leaving behind the intrusive paparazzi.

    ¡°Stupid paparazzi,¡± Sebastian muttered under his breath, his frustration evident. He checked the time, and his expression grew serious. ¡°I have to get back to LA now,¡± he said, ncing at me.

    I felt a pang of disappointment, realizing that our day together had been abruptly cut short by the intrusion of the paparazzi. ¡°Can I drop you home?¡± he asked, his eyes holding a mixture of concern and regret. ¡°I¡¯m sorry for how today turned out.¡±

    I shook my head, offering a reassuring smile. ¡°It¡¯s alright. None of this was your fault,¡± I replied, my voice filled with understanding.

    Arriving home after the chaotic day, I felt a mix of emotions. Sebastian walked me to the door, his eyes filled with concern and regret. I knew he had to leave for Los Angeles, but his parting kiss was filled with tenderness and promise. It was a silent reassurance that, despite the tumultuous events of the day, we would face whatever challenges came our way together.

    As he pulled away, I smiled at him, grateful for his unwavering support. ¡°Take care,¡± he said, his voice filled with affection. With that, he turned and walked back to his car, leaving me standing at the door, a mix of emotions swirling inside.

    Stepping into the living room, I was met by Be¡¯s worried expression. She rushed up to me, her eyes wide with concern. ¡°Oh my God, are you alright?¡± she asked, her voice brimming with anxiety.

    I was taken aback by her question. I hadn¡¯t had the chance to tell her about the day¡¯s events, so she couldn¡¯t possibly know what had transpired. ¡°Yes, why?¡± I replied, curiosity edging into my voice.

    Be pulled out her tablet and swiftly turned the screen toward me. In big, bold letters, the headline caught my eye: ¡°MIA ANDERSON THORNTON SLAPPED BY HER FATHER!¡± It was all over the gossip channels, the details of the encounterid bare for the world to see.

    My heart sank as I read the headline. The paparazzi had been relentless in their pursuit of the story, and they had managed to turn the events of the day into a sensationalized spectacle. My personal pain and family turmoil were now fodder for public consumption, a harsh reminder of the invasive nature of the media.

    Be¡¯s eyes were filled with sympathy as she watched my reaction. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry, Mia,¡± she said, her voice gentle and reassuring. ¡°I didn¡¯t know they¡¯d make it such a big deal.¡±

    I shook my head, a sense of helplessness washing over me. ¡°It¡¯s not your fault,¡± I replied, my voice heavy with resignation. I couldn¡¯t me Be for something that was beyond our control.N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.

    As I sat down on the couch, Be joined me, offering aforting presence. ¡°How are you feeling?¡± she asked, her concern evident.

    I sighed, the weight of the day¡¯s events pressing down on me. ¡°Confused, angry, and humiliated,¡± I admitted, my voice quivering with emotion. ¡°But I also feel lucky to have people like you and Sebastian in my life.¡±

    Be smiled warmly, offering a reassuring squeeze of my hand. ¡°We¡¯re here for you, Mia. No matter what.¡±

 67

    New York, Mia

    The soft morning sunlight streamed into the cozy kitchen, painting the room with a warm glow. Today, I had a sweet craving that only a homemade cake could satisfy. With determination and an apron securely tied around my waist, I decided to embark on a baking adventure from scratch. The thought of a decadent chocte cake had been on my mind, and I was eager to make it a reality.

    I pulled out all the necessary ingredients from the pantry and ced them on the counter. Flour, sugar, cocoa powder, eggs, butter, and milk were neatly arranged, awaiting their transformation into a delicious dessert. The aroma of cocoa already filled the kitchen, a promise of the chocty indulgence that was toe.

    Just as I was about to start mixing the ingredients, my phone rang, and I saw that it was Sebastian calling. With a smile, I picked up the call, my hands now ready to bnce the delicate dance of baking.

    ¡°Hi there,¡± I answered as I began to preheat the oven, ensuring it was ready for the cake toe.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.

    Sebastian¡¯s face appeared on the screen, and his warm smile greeted me. He was seated in his office, a world away from the kitchen where I was about to embark on my baking endeavor. ¡°Hi, wifey. What are you up to?¡± he asked, his eyes curious.

    I couldn¡¯t contain my excitement. ¡°I¡¯m going to bake a cake,¡± I said, my voice tinged with eagerness and the sweet anticipation of the treat toe.

    His eyes lit up with interest. ¡°Really? Put me on FaceTime,¡± he suggested, his enthusiasm matching mine.

    With a quick and practiced movement, I ced my phone on the kitchen table, positioning it to capture the action in the kitchen. Sebastian¡¯s face appeared on the screen, and he was now a part of my baking adventure, even from afar.

    As I began to measure and mix the ingredients, Sebastian watched attentively from his office. His presence, even through the screen of my phone, was aforting and encouraging one. It was as though he was right there with me, sharing in the joy of creating something sweet and delicious.

    I started by sifting the flour and cocoa powder together, creating a velvety mixture that promised the deep, rich vor of the cake. The eggs and sugar were whisked to perfection, their textures blending into a silky, pale ribbon.

    Sebastian, his gaze unwavering, offered words of encouragement and guidance as I carefully added the melted butter and milk to the batter. His suggestions and observations were a wee addition to the baking process, reminding me that I was not alone in my culinary journey.

    As the batter was mixed and poured into the prepared cake pans, I could feel the sweet aroma of chocte enveloping the kitchen. The scent was intoxicating, a prelude to the decadence that was about toe. My heart swelled with anticipation, and I couldn¡¯t help but share my excitement with Sebastian.

    ¡°Look at this, it¡¯s going to be amazing,¡± I said, cing my phone closer to the cake pans for his virtual inspection.

    Sebastian¡¯s eyes lit up with delight. ¡°It already looks incredible,¡± he replied, his voice filled with warmth and admiration.

    As the cakes baked in the oven, Sebastian and I chatted about our day and the ns for the week ahead. His presence, even from a distance, brought a sense of togetherness, a reminder that love could bridge any gap, no matter the miles that separated us.

    Before I knew it, the cakes were ready. I carefully removed them from the oven, their tops golden and inviting. Sebastian apuded my baking skills from the other end of the call, and I couldn¡¯t help but smile, grateful for his unwavering support.

    The final touches included a generousyer of velvety chocte frosting, a simple yet essential step that transformed the cake into a work of art. As I spread the frosting and added a few decorative swirls, I couldn¡¯t wait to indulge in the final result.

    With the cake nowplete, I held up my phone, presenting the finished creation to Sebastian. ¡°Ta-da! What do you think?¡± I asked, my eyes sparkling with delight.

    Sebastian¡¯s admiration was evident in his voice. ¡°It looks incredible, Mia. I wish I could be there to enjoy it with you.¡±

    ¡°I wished you were here to enjoy it with me too,¡± I told him, my voice tinged with longing as I gazed out of the window at the breathtaking sunset. The hues of orange and pink painted the sky, casting a warm, serene glow over the horizon. I knew Sebastian would have appreciated this picturesque moment as much as I did.

    ¡°Anyway, I need to hang up. I¡¯ll clean the kitchen before Bees home,¡± I said, reluctantly tearing my gaze away from the mesmerizing scene outside. Sebastian, on the other end of the call, understood. He nodded and replied, ¡°Alright then, talk to youter.¡± With a sense of finality, our conversation came to an end.

    I set my phone aside and turned my attention to the freshly baked cake that sat on the kitchen counter. The sweet aroma of vani and chocte wafted through the air, tantalizing my senses. It was a simple pleasure, but one that brought immense joy. As I cut a small slice for myself, I couldn¡¯t help but savor the anticipation of sharing it with my best friend, Be, once she returned home.

    The first bite of the cake was pure bliss. Its moist texture and rich vor were a testament to my improving baking skills, a hobby I had picked up during my pregnancy. Each bite felt like a reward, a small indulgence in the midst of my daily routine.

    After finishing my slice of cake, I gathered the dirty dishes and began to clean the kitchen. The soothing sound of running water and the repetitive motion of washing dishes offered a moment of reflection. It was in these quiet moments that I missed Sebastian the most. He had been my confidant, my partner in both good and bad times, and the father of our unborn child.

    As I wiped thest te and ced it in the drying rack, I decided to leave a slice of cake in the microwave for Be. She had been a tremendous source of support throughout my pregnancy, and I wanted to surprise her with a little treat as a token of my appreciation.

    Leaving the kitchen behind, I entered the living room. The soft, muted tones of the furniture and the warm, cozy ambiance enveloped me. It was a stark contrast to the turbulent years I had experienced before. No more drama, no more stress; my life had settled into a peaceful rhythm. Finally, I could enjoy the precious moments of my pregnancy without the constant turmoil that had once gued my existence.

    As I settled into thefortable armchair, I rested my hand on my growing belly, feeling the gentle kicks of my unborn child. I smiled, filled with gratitude for the serenity that had be my life. Pregnancy had brought with it a sense of purpose and a renewed appreciation for the simple joys.

    The sound of the front door opening and closing announced Be¡¯s arrival. She appeared in the doorway, her eyes lighting up at the sight of me. ¡°You won¡¯t believe the day I¡¯ve had,¡± she said, her voice a mix of exhaustion and excitement.

    I gestured to the cake in the microwave and said, ¡°I baked this for you. It¡¯s a little reward for all your hard work today.¡±

    Be¡¯s tired expression transformed into one of delight. She rushed over to the microwave, retrieved the slice of cake, and took a bite. ¡°Oh, this is heavenly,¡± she eximed, savoring the sweet vor. ¡°You¡¯re the best friend ever.¡±

 68

    Los Angeles, Sebastian

    I sat at my desk in the office, surrounded by a mound of paperwork that seemed to multiply with every passing hour. The meeting earlier in the day had left me drained, but there was no respite in sight. The rest of the day loomed ahead, and the tasks seemed endless.

    As I tried to focus on the reports in front of me, my assistant appeared at my door, her face a mix of concern and efficiency. In her hand, she held a steaming cup of coffee, the aroma wafting toward me, offering a brief moment offort.

    ¡°Your coffee, Mr. Thornton,¡± she said, her voice a soft, soothing tone in the midst of the chaos that was my workday. I managed a weary smile and reached out to ept the cup. Coffee had be my lifeline, a source of caffeine-induced motivation to plow through the never-ending stack of papers.

    My assistant ced the cup on my desk, being as careful as ever, and I nodded in appreciation before returning my attention to theputer screen. The keyboard cked with my fingers dancing across it as I typed and arranged the documents, my mind racing toplete the tasks at hand.

    But then, in a cruel twist of fate, the inevitable happened. My fingers slipped on the keyboard, and I knocked into the cup of coffee. It teetered precariously for a moment before toppling over, the scalding liquid sshing across the desk, papers, and a few drops evennding on my crisp white shirt.

    ¡°Fuck!¡± The curse escaped my lips, louder and more vehemently than I intended. My frustration was palpable as I stared at the chaos before me, coffee stains spreading like an inkblot, obscuring the important details of the documents I had been painstakingly working on.

    My assistant rushed to my side, her eyes wide with concern. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry,¡± she apologized, her voice trembling with guilt.

    I sighed, realizing that it wasn¡¯t her fault, and tried to temper my frustration. ¡°It¡¯s alright. idents happen.¡± I watched as she quickly retrieved a stack of napkins and started to blot at the mess. Her efficiency wasmendable, but I knew that the damage was already done.

    As my assistant worked to clean up the spilled coffee, I leaned back in my chair, closing my eyes for a brief moment. It was one of those days when it felt like everything was going against me. The meeting earlier had left me mentally exhausted, and now, I was faced with the daunting task of starting over on the paperwork.

    When my assistant had done her best to salvage the documents and desk, she discreetly slipped out of my office, leaving me alone to face the remnants of my coffee mishap. With a heavy heart and a sigh of resignation, I knew there was no other choice. I had to start from scratch.

    I missed Mia. The longing for her presence tugged at my heart, a constant reminder of the physical distance that separated us. I wished she was closer, within arm¡¯s reach, so I could visit her at any moment, or better yet,e home to her. The fact that she lived all the way in New York was such a bummer.

    I had never been one to engage in long-distance rtionships; they always seemed more of a hassle than a pleasure. But Mia was different, and the thought of her made the distance worth it, every single mile. She was the love of my life, my anchor, and the woman I wanted to spend my future with.

    As I sat at my desk, my mind wandered to Mia, and the smile that formed on my lips was as genuine as theye. We were not only deeply in love but also eagerly awaiting the arrival of our first child. The thought of bing a father filled me with a sense of excitement, purpose, and an overwhelming desire to be the best husband and father I could possibly be for Mia and our unborn baby.

    As I daydreamed about our future as a family, an idea suddenly popped into my mind. It was as if a lightbulb had gone off, illuminating a path I hadn¡¯t considered before. So much had been happening in our lives in the past few months, from the pregnancy news to the whirlwind of drama that had unfolded around us. Our focus had been almost entirely on managing the challenges, and amidst it all, we hadn¡¯t even had a moment to think about our honeymoon.

    The realization struck me like a bolt of lightning. We deserved a honeymoon, a break from the chaos that had consumed us. It was time to celebrate our love and cherish the moments we had together.

    I called in my assistant, who always seemed to have the uncanny ability to materialize at just the right time. She walked in, her notepad ready to capture any task or instruction I might have for her.

    ¡°Yes, Mr. Thornton,¡± she said, her professional demeanor in ce.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.

    I leaned forward, my eyes fixed on her as I spoke with determination, ¡°Book my honeymoon for me. And please, tell Mrs. Thornton to keep next weekend open.¡±

    I watched as my assistant  exited my office with purpose, ready to undertake the necessary preparations for our long-overdue honeymoon. She was efficient and reliable, a true asset in managing both my professional and personal life. Her footsteps echoed softly down the corridor, and the door closed behind her.

    With her departure, I let out a contented sigh, feeling the weight of the world lift from my shoulders. The decision to surprise Mia with a well-deserved honeymoon had filled me with a sense of satisfaction. It was a gesture that, in my heart, reflected the deep love I had for her, and I was willing to do anything to keep my woman happy.

    The thought ¡°happy wife, happy life¡± resonated in my mind, and it held an undeniable truth. Mia was my partner, my confidante, and the love of my life. Her happiness was my utmost priority, and if a simple surprise honeymoon could bring a smile to her face, then it was worth every effort.

    Turning my attention back to the work that had previously felt like an insurmountable mountain, I was surprised by how my perspective had shifted. The daunting stack of tasks that had seemed almost oppressive earlier didn¡¯t look as formidable now. With a newfound sense of determination and a smile ying on my lips, I began to tackle the work one item at a time.

    Each report I reviewed, each email I sent, and each phone call I made was infused with a sense of purpose. The knowledge that this effort would pave the way for a weekend of uninterrupted bliss with Mia was all the motivation I needed.

 69

    New York, Mia

    I sat in my office, engrossed in a client meeting, meticulously assisting her with theplexities of her project. She was one of my regrs, and over time, our professional rtionship had evolved into a friendly one. Today, she brought along my favorite bag of chips as a pleasant surprise. I couldn¡¯t help but smile as she handed me the familiar snack.

    ¡°Thank you so much, Sarah,¡± I said, genuinely touched by her thoughtful gesture. ¡°You know me too well.¡±

    As we worked through the project, our conversation flowed effortlessly, switching between business and more casual topics. The chips added a touch offort to our meeting, and I appreciated the way they lightened the atmosphere.

    After we concluded our meeting, Sarah gathered her things and prepared to leave my office. As she stood up, she remarked, ¡°I¡¯ll catch youter. Enjoy those chips!¡±

    With a warm nod, I waved her goodbye, thanking her again for the chips. The moment the door clicked shut, I couldn¡¯t resist the temptation any longer. I opened the bag of chips and reached in, savoring the salty crunch as I indulged in a small, early lunch break.

    My stomach had been a source of constant rumblingstely, and my cravings for sugar had intensified. It was as if my body was demanding more energy, and I couldn¡¯t help but give in to these cravings. The chips provided a satisfying savory distraction, but I knew that my sweet tooth was still longing for something more.

    As I reached for thest chip in the bag, I heard a cheerful tune hummed from the other side of my office door. Before I could react, the door swung open, revealing Sophia. She walked in with a lively, almost dance-like step, radiating joy and enthusiasm.

    Today, her energy was infectious. She settled into the chair in front of my desk, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

    ¡°How are you?¡± she asked, her voice as vibrant as her mood.

    I couldn¡¯t help but smile as I replied, ¡°I¡¯m doing well, Sophia. Your timing is impable, as always.¡±

    She extended a box toward me, and I recognized it immediately. It was one of her homemade brownies. My heart leaped with joy; Sophia¡¯s brownies were legendary among our circle of friends.

    ¡°Oh, I love your brownies,¡± I eximed, epting the delicious treat. ¡°They taste so good. Not too sweet, just the perfect amount.¡±

    As I took a bite of the brownie, the rich, choctey vor melted in my mouth. It was a perfect blend of sweetness and texture, just as I had remembered.

    Sophia chuckled, clearly delighted by my reaction. ¡°I thought these might brighten your day, especially since you¡¯ve been craving sugar like crazy,¡± she said, her eyes twinkling with amusement.

    I couldn¡¯t help butugh in agreement. ¡°You have no idea how much I¡¯ve been craving sugar,¡± I confessed. ¡°It¡¯s like a constant battle between my cravings and my work.¡±

    Sophia¡¯s presence was always a source offort and understanding, and I was grateful for the sce she offered in times of uncertainty.

    But then, in the midst of our conversation, my phone rang, and I saw that it was a call from Sebastian¡¯s assistant. My heart skipped a beat, my brows furrowing in concern. Why would she be calling me? Did something happen to Sebastian? A sudden rush of worry surged through me.

    With trembling hands, I picked up the call, my voiceced with anxiety. ¡°Hello?¡± I said, my mind racing with fear.Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.

    The voice on the other end was calm and reassuring. ¡°Hi, Mia,¡± Sebastian¡¯s assistant began. ¡°I hope I didn¡¯t startle you. I have some exciting news to share.¡±

    My heart rate began to settle as I sensed a change in the conversation¡¯s tone. I leaned in, eager to hear what was happening.

    With a smile, she continued, ¡°Sebastian is arranging a honeymoon for the two of you this weekend. It¡¯s a surprise getaway, and he wanted to make sure you¡¯re avable and ready.¡±

    Relief washed over me, and I couldn¡¯t help but break into a joyful smile. A honeymoon! Sebastian¡¯s thoughtfulness and the surprise trip left me ted.

    When I ced the phone back on the table, Sophia noticed the shift in my mood and the bright, excited expression on my face. She raised an eyebrow, a curious gleam in her eyes.

    ¡°You look happy,¡± she observed, a knowing smile ying on her lips.

    I couldn¡¯t contain my excitement as I shared the wonderful news. ¡°Sebastian is arranging a honeymoon for us this weekend,¡± I eximed, my voice filled with joy and anticipation.

    Sophia¡¯s eyes sparkled with happiness for me, and she reached out to offer a supportive squeeze of my hand. ¡°You¡¯re one lucky girl,¡± she said, her smile filled with warmth and genuine happiness.

    I nodded in agreement, a blush of gratitude making its way to my cheeks. I was more than just lucky; Sebastian was a dreame true, the perfect husband who continued to surprise and delight me.

 70

    New York, SebastianThis content is ? N?velDrama.Org.

    The private jet soared through the clear, blue sky, and the hum of the engines provided aforting backdrop to our journey. Mia and I were on our way to our honeymoon destination, and I couldn¡¯t help but smile as I watched her sip on her apple juice.

    ¡°Where are we going?¡± she asked, her curiosity getting the better of her after a few sips.

    I leaned in, a mischievous glint in my eyes. ¡°That¡¯s a secret,¡± I whispered, my voice carrying a yful undertone. ¡°You¡¯ll see once we¡¯re there.¡±

    Mia let out an exasperated sigh, her curiosity clearly piqued. ¡°Ugh,¡± she groaned, leaning back in her chair. ¡°Be said the same while packing for me.¡± Be, my trusted confidante, was the only one who knew the destination, as I had asked her to pack for Mia in secret to keep the surprise intact.

    I chuckled, my amusement evident. ¡°Don¡¯t be so impatient,¡± I teased, unable to resist a yful banter.

    Mia, always one to wear her heart on her sleeve, let out an exaggerated sigh. ¡°I¡¯m craving something sweet,¡± she admitted, her lips forming a pout that I found utterly endearing.

    I couldn¡¯t help but chuckle at her eagerness. ¡°I know your cravings for sugary things,¡± I confessed. She had mentioned her love for sweets during a phone conversation a few days ago, which had given me an idea.

    With a smirk, I reached into my pocket and pulled out a bag of candy, offering it to her. Mia¡¯s eyes widened in delight as she took in the unexpected treat.

    ¡°Oh my God, you came prepared,¡± she eximed, her voice filled with both surprise and joy. I couldn¡¯t help butugh at her reaction, and a yful banter began to unfold between us.

    ¡°I have to make sure my wife is happy on our honeymoon,¡± I replied with a wink, emphasizing the word ¡°wife¡± to remind her of the exciting journey we were embarking on.

    Mia yfully rolled her eyes, her fingers delving into the bag of candy. ¡°You really know how to spoil me,¡± she said, her tone teasing.

    ¡°I aim to please,¡± I responded, taking the opportunity to lean in closer, my lips brushing against her cheek for a sweet and lingering kiss.

    Mia smiled, the candy forgotten for the moment, as we exchanged affectionate nces. It was moments like these, filled withughter and yfulness, that made our rtionship so special.

    With Miafortably settled in her seat, the bag of candy had been devoured, and the soothing hum of the ne had created a tranquil ambiance. I took advantage of the time to focus on some work that required my attention. The honeymoon would be a time to rx and unwind, but there were tasks that needed my input before we could fully immerse ourselves in leisure.

    Even though I was technically away from the office, the marvels of modern technology allowed me to stay connected. Meetings were held via video calls, emails were exchanged, and decisions were made, ensuring that business continued smoothly. I was determined to wrap up a deal tonight to ensure our honeymoon was stress-free.

    While Mia slept soundly, I worked diligently, focusing on the task at hand. The minutes slipped away as I delved into the details, my mind fully immersed in the project. The effort was abor of love, a desire to ensure that our time together would be as enjoyable and stress-free as possible.

    As I put the final touches on my work, a sense of satisfaction washed over me. I had achieved what I set out to do, and now I could fully devote my attention to the journey ahead.

    Just as I finished, the flight attendant arrived, bringing in the exquisite in-flight meal. The aroma of the food was enticing, and I couldn¡¯t help but smile, my appetite stirred. Mia was still sleeping, so I made the decision to ask the attendant to serve her mealter. I began to savor the meal that had beenid out before me.

    The dish was a culinary delight, with a hearty portion of creamy mashed potatoes, sulent chicken, and perfectly roasted Brussels sprouts. The vors danced on my pte, and I relished each bite as I also enjoyed a refreshing cocktail.

    It wasn¡¯t long before Mia began to stir, her eyelids fluttering open as she slowly woke from her nap. I couldn¡¯t help but grin as I watched here to, feeling a sense of contentment at her peaceful slumber.

    ¡°Well, hello there, sleeping beauty,¡± I greeted her, my voice filled with affection and amusement.

    Mia blinked, her gaze adjusting to her surroundings, and then her eyesnded on my empty te. Her first words, spoken with a mock expression of hurt, were, ¡°You ate without me.¡±

    I chuckled, thoroughly entertained by her reaction. I reached for the button to summon the flight attendant, ready to bring in Mia¡¯s meal and clear my empty te.

    ¡°I couldn¡¯t wait any longer,¡± I admitted, my voice lighthearted. ¡°But don¡¯t worry, your meal is on its way.¡±

    Mia let out a yful huff, her expression a mix of yful annoyance and genuine amusement. ¡°I can¡¯t believe you¡¯d betray me like this,¡± she teased, a twinkle of mirth in her eyes.

    The flight attendant arrived with Mia¡¯s meal, and I thanked her as the delectable dish was ced before my wife.

    As Mia started to enjoy her meal, I couldn¡¯t help but admire the way she lit up when the vors met her taste buds. Her happiness was infectious, and her yfulness was a reminder of why I loved her so much.

    As Mia finished her meal, we were approaching the final moments of our journey. The private jet was steadily descending, and the anticipation of our honeymoon destination had reached its peak. We prepared fornding, securing our belongings, and fastening our seatbelts.

    Mia, a sense of excitement and wonder twinkling in her eyes, turned her gaze towards the window. The view that met her eyes left her momentarily breathless. Her voice, filled with awe and surprise, broke the momentary silence.

    ¡°We are in the Maldives,¡± she gasped.

 71

    The Maldives, Mia

    The moment we stepped out of the private jet, the breathtaking beauty of the Maldives left me in a state of awe. The ind paradise was unlike anything I had ever seen before, a vision of paradise painted with pristine sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush greenery. It was a dreame true, and my heart swelled with gratitude.

    As we walked onto the tarmac, a warm tropical breeze greeted us, and the fragrant scent of exotic flowers filled the air. The setting was a symphony of natural beauty, where the azure ocean met the horizon and palm trees swayed gently in the wind.

    A car was already waiting for us, a courteous driver weing us with a smile as we settled into thefortable seats. The scenic drive to our hotel was a journey through paradise, with the vibrant colors of the ind making my heart soar.

    ¡°It¡¯s so beautiful here,¡± I whispered, my voice filled with wonder and joy as I gazed out at the surroundings.

    Sebastian¡¯s smile was infectious, and his eyes sparkled with happiness. ¡°I knew you would love it,¡± he said, his words filled with pride at having arranged this special journey.

    We continued along the winding road, passing by quaint viges and enjoying the lush greenery of the ind. The anticipation in the air was palpable, and my excitement grew with every mile that brought us closer to our destination.

    When we arrived at the hotel, the staff was ready to wee us. Their warm smiles and hospitality created an atmosphere of genuine kindness. They guided us into the hotel, where the tropical ambiance and breathtaking views only heightened the magic of our arrival.

    As we entered our room, I couldn¡¯t help but gasp in amazement. It was a space that felt like a haven, adorned with elegant decor and stunning views of the ocean. Therge windows allowed the natural light to fill the room, making it feel even more spacious and inviting.

    ¡°It¡¯s so beautifully decorated,¡± I marveled, my voice filled with appreciation. The hotel staff had gone above and beyond to ensure our honeymoon was a truly unforgettable experience.

    Before I could resist, I couldn¡¯t help but jump onto the invitingly soft bed, causing the delicate rose decorations they had artfully ced to scatter around me. Iughed, the bed feeling like a cloud beneath me.

    Sebastian joined in my mirth, hisughter a harmonious note that added to the joy of the moment. ¡°And it¡¯s so soft,¡± I agreed, sinking into the plush bedding.

    The room¡¯s decor was a testament to the ind¡¯s natural beauty, with wooden furnishings and touches of vibrant colors reflecting the tropical surroundings. The fresh floral scent that filled the room was a reminder of the lush gardens just outside the windows.

    As we settled into our luxurious haven, I couldn¡¯t help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude for this incredible journey and for the man who had made it all possible. It was a honeymoon that surpassed all my dreams, and I was ready to create cherished memories in this tropical paradise.

    Sebastian¡¯s eyes met mine, and he reached out to gently cup my face. ¡°I¡¯m so d you love it,¡± he said, his words filled with tenderness.

    I leaned into his touch, savoring the warmth of his hand against my cheek. ¡°It¡¯s more beautiful than I could have ever imagined,¡± I replied, my heart brimming with love for him and for the paradise we were about to explore together.

    Sebastian¡¯s voice was a gentle melody as he spoke, breaking the peaceful atmosphere that had enveloped us. ¡°Go take a shower, and we¡¯ll head out to get something to eat.¡±

    I nodded with a smile and stood up from the plush bed. Opening my suitcase, I carefully selected an outfit for our evening out and retrieved my makeup and skincare essentials. The hotel room was a sanctuary of luxury and beauty, and I couldn¡¯t help but appreciate the thoughtfulness that had gone into every detail of our honeymoon.

    With my chosen attire in hand, I headed into the bathroom. It was a masterpiece of design, adorned with marble surfaces and a serene color palette. Therge mirror reflected the soft lighting, creating an ideal space for my beauty regimen.

    I started with my skincare routine, cleansing and moisturizing my face to ensure a healthy and radiantplexion. The warm water from the exquisite shower was a soothing embrace, and I luxuriated in the simple pleasure of feeling refreshed.

    As I stepped out of the shower, I carefully applied my makeup, enhancing my features while keeping the look natural. My hair, with its soft waves, fell gracefully around my shoulders, adding the final touch to my appearance.

    When I emerged from the bathroom, I was adorned in a light blue dress with an open back, a choice that had felt perfect for the enchanting atmosphere of the Maldives. The soft fabric clung to my form, flowing elegantly as I moved. The look waspleted with a pair of delicate earrings, a simple bracelet, and a pair of strappy sandals.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.

    As I stepped into the room, my eyes met Sebastian¡¯s, and his reaction left me blushing. He stood there, his mouth slightly ajar, his gaze locked on me. ¡°You look so gorgeous,¡± he breathed, his words filled with admiration and love.

    A warm flush of happiness washed over me at hispliment. ¡°Thank you,¡± I replied, my heart swelling with joy. His approval was a treasure that never ceased to brighten my day.

    Sebastian finally tore his eyes away from me and headed towards the bathroom. As he prepared for our evening, I took the opportunity to reach out to Be, eager to share our arrival with her.

    I dialed her number, and as soon as she picked up, her excitement was palpable. ¡°I¡¯m so d you¡¯re finally there!¡± she eximed.

    I chuckled at her enthusiasm. ¡°You will love it,¡± she assured me, her voice filled with anticipation for all the adventures that awaited me.

    Be¡¯sughter was contagious. ¡°Thank you, and also thank you for being the best packer!¡± I expressed my gratitude, truly appreciating her help in making this trip unforgettable.

    ¡°No worries, girl,¡± she replied cheerfully. ¡°You know I got you!¡±

    With our conversation concluded, I set my phone aside just as Sebastian walked into the room, looking as handsome as ever. His well-tailored outfit and impable grooming were a testament to his style and sophistication.

    ¡°You look good,¡± Iplimented him, my eyes sparkling with admiration as I took in his appearance.

    He smiled, his dimples making an appearance as he ran a hand through his hair. He then extended his hand towards me, and I ced mine in his, relishing the warmth of his touch.

    Together, we walked out of the hotel room, eager to explore the enchanting world that awaited us in the Maldives. The hallway was a corridor of luxury, and the anticipation of the evening was a delightful undercurrent that energized us.

    Just as we made our way towards the elevator, a well-dressed man approached us with a stunning bouquet of roses. The vibrant colors and exquisite arrangement took my breath away.

    Sebastian¡¯s voice was filled with love as he presented me with the bouquet. ¡°For you,¡± he said, his words a gentle caress.

    The roses were so beautiful, so perfect, a reflection of the love he had for me. ¡°Thank you,¡± I whispered, my eyes shimmering with gratitude.

    Sebastian smiled, his affectionate gaze meeting mine. ¡°Everything for my beautiful wife.¡±

 72

    The Maldives, Sebastian

    Mia was a vision of beauty, and with each passing day, my love for her deepened. I marveled at her as she stood before me, her eyes filled with wonder and gratitude, much like the stars that sparkled in the night sky. Her radiance was captivating, and it had the power to take my breath away.

    She reminded me of fall, a season filled with warmth and vibrant colors. The hues of autumn painted thendscape, and Mia embodied that same sense of transition and beauty. Her presence was like aforting autumn breeze, carrying the promise of change and renewal.

    I couldn¡¯t help but think of a pumpkin spicette when I looked at her. Just like the popr fall beverage, she was a delightful blend of warmth, sweetness, and a touch of spice. She added vor to my life in ways I had never anticipated, and her love was a treat that I cherished.

    As Mia¡¯s eyes lit up upon receiving the bouquet of roses, I was ovee with happiness. The radiant smile that graced her lips was a testament to the joy she found in the simple pleasures of life, and it was something I cherished seeing every day.

    Her pregnancy was a testament to our love, a symbol of our growing family, and it filled me with a profound sense of pride and love. Mia¡¯s baby bump was already beginning to show, a small yet significant presence that held the promise of new life.

    She glowed like a full moon, her face adorned with a luminous light that mirrored the magic of the night sky. It was as if the universe itself had decided to bless us with its radiance.

    Hand in hand, we made our way downstairs to the hotel¡¯s restaurant. I had taken the liberty of making reservations earlier, ensuring that our evening would be as seamless and enjoyable as possible.

    Upon our arrival, the staff greeted us with warmth and guided us to our table. Our seats were by a window that overlooked the shimmering water, the moonlight casting a gentle glow upon the ripples of the ocean. It was a breathtaking view, a perfect backdrop for a romantic evening.

    We settled into our seats, and the ambiance of the restaurant was serene, the soft lighting creating an intimate atmosphere. A gentle breeze carried the scent of the sea, and the distant sound of the waves provided a soothing backdrop to our dinner.

    As we perused the menu, I couldn¡¯t help but admire Mia. She had a grace and elegance about her that was utterly captivating. Her presence added a touch of magic to the already enchanting setting.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.

    I reached for her hand, our fingers entwining, and I met her gaze with affection. ¡°This ce is perfect, just like you,¡± I said, my voice filled with love and admiration.

    Mia¡¯s cheeks turned a delicate shade of pink, and she squeezed my hand in response. Her eyes sparkled with a mixture of happiness and contentment, and it was a sight that made my heart swell.

    The menu was an array of tantalizing dishes, a fusion of international vors that promised to be a culinary journey. We deliberated on our choices, sharing rmendations and discussing the dishes that had caught our attention.

    ¡°Thank you for bringing me to this perfect honeymoon,¡± Mia said, her eyes shining with appreciation and affection.

    I smiled, unable to resist the warmth that her words brought to my heart. ¡°Everything for you, my beautiful wife,¡± I replied, a gentle caress in my voice. Leaning forward, I took her hand and ced a soft kiss on the back of it.

    Her smile was a reflection of her happiness, and it was a sight I never tired of seeing. As our fingers inteced, I felt a connection that was deeper than words, a bond that had grown stronger with each passing day.

    Our dinner conversation turned to the topic of baby names, a subject that had been on our minds as we anticipated the arrival of our child. Mia had a yful glint in her eye as she ventured into the realm of possibilities.

    ¡°So,¡± I said, leaning back in my chair, ¡°have we thought about baby names already?¡±

    Mia¡¯s eyes sparkled with intrigue as she began to share her ideas. ¡°I have a few in mind,¡± she said.

    My curiosity was piqued, and I raised an eyebrow, eager to hear her suggestions. ¡°Really?¡± I prompted. ¡°Tell me more.¡±

    She contemted her choices with a yful smile. ¡°Mmh, I thought of Wolf.¡±

    I couldn¡¯t help but chuckle at her unique suggestion. Naming our child after an animal certainly wasn¡¯t amon choice. ¡°Really? An animal?¡± I teased. ¡°You can do better than that.¡±

    Miaughed, her eyes dancing with amusement. ¡°How about Dimitri?¡±

    The name had a certain charm to it, and I considered it thoughtfully. ¡°Dimitri,¡± I repeated. ¡°That¡¯s not bad.¡±

    But I couldn¡¯t resist adding my own suggestion to the mix. ¡°Meh, how about Kaden?¡± I said.

    ¡°Meh,¡± Mia replied, yfully dismissing my suggestion for a baby name. Our yful banter continued, each of us offering up names and teasing the other¡¯s choices.

    Just then, our food arrived, and the scent of the dishes wafted tantalizingly through the air. The server set our tes before us, and the rich aroma of the food had our mouths watering.

    ¡°Bon appetit,¡± the server said, and we immediately dug in. Hunger had crept up on us despite the small meal we¡¯d had on the ne, and the vors of the dishes were even more delightful than we had anticipated.

    As we savored our dinner, Mia¡¯s delight was evident in her every expression and sigh of contentment. Her joy was infectious, and I couldn¡¯t help but smile as I watched her relish every bite.

    ¡°This is so good,¡± she eximed, and I nodded in agreement. The food was indeed delicious, but it was the sight of Mia enjoying it that made my heart swell with happiness.

    As we continued our meal, the restaurant¡¯s serene ambiance and the beauty of the Maldives outside the window added to the magic of the evening. The moonlight cast a soft glow on the water, and the sound of the waves in the distance was a soothing luby.

    The phrase ¡°happy wife, happy life¡± came to mind, and it held a special significance for me. Ensuring that Mia was content, happy, and cherished was a priority that brought me immense joy.

 73

    The Maldives, Mia

    As we strolled down the pristine shores of the Maldives, the golden hues of the setting sun painted a breathtaking masterpiece in the sky. The scene before us was nothing short of magical, an experience that transcended words and left us in awe. The Maldives, with its natural beauty, had a way of capturing hearts, and our evening walk on the beach was a testament to its unparalleled charm.

    Earlier in the day, our adventures had led us to explore this paradise. We delved into the heart of Maldivian culture by engaging in shopping, savoring local cuisines, and immersing ourselves in the rich history of the inds by visiting museums. Each experience was a treasure, and together they wove a tapestry of unforgettable memories.

    The shopping was an adventure in itself. The bustling markets of Male, the capital of the Maldives, were a colorful spectacle of vibrant fabrics, intricate handicrafts, and exquisite jewelry. We couldn¡¯t resist the allure of locally made souvenirs and ended up with beautifully woven mats, a delicate piece of coral jewelry, and a hand-painted sarong that would forever remind us of this trip.

    But it wasn¡¯t just the tangible treasures that made our day. The vors of Maldivian cuisine left an indelible mark on our ptes. We savored traditional dishes like ¡°Garudhiya,¡± a fragrant fish soup, and ¡°Mas huni,¡± a delightful mix of tuna, coconut, and spices. The exotic blend of vors and spices transported us to the heart of the Maldives, and it was a culinary journey we¡¯d never forget.

    Museums, too, offered a fascinating glimpse into the history and culture of these beautiful inds. We admired intricate coral sculptures and learned about the legends and traditions that had shaped this unique nation. The museums painted a vivid picture of a Maldives that was both steeped in tradition and weing of the modern world.

    Our day of exploration had been wonderfully exhausting, and we decided to return to our luxurious hotel for a brief respite. Sebastian¡¯s thoughtfulness knew no bounds as he surprised me with a scoop of creamy coconut ice cream. We indulged in this sweet treat while taking in the view of the crystal-clear waters from our room.

    The brief nap refreshed us, and we found ourselves lost in the world of cinema for a couple of hours. Our room was a sanctuary offort, and watching a movie in that setting was an intimate experience, setting the mood for the evening.

    Now, as we walked along the private beach that belonged to Sebastian, I couldn¡¯t help but be overwhelmed by the sheer beauty of our surroundings. The golden sands beneath our feet felt soft and warm, and the gentle caress of the ocean waves against our ankles was like a soothing embrace.

    The sun, on the verge of disappearing into the horizon, painted the sky with shades of orange and pink, creating a mesmerizing backdrop for our evening stroll. The palm trees swayed gracefully in the breeze, and the distant inds seemed like mystical mirages on the horizon. The serenity of this private beach, with no other souls around, allowed us to bepletely present in the moment, cocooned in thep of nature.

    ¡°I love it here,¡± I whispered, my voice barely louder than the gentlepping of the waves. Sebastian smiled warmly at me, his eyes reflecting the same deep affection I felt for this extraordinary ce. The Maldives was not just a destination; it was an emotion, a connection to nature, and a shared experience that had brought us closer.

    As we continued our walk, the beach became a canvas of stories, where the footprints we left behind were fleeting imprints in the sands of time. We marveled at the tranquility of the Indian Ocean, its endless expanse stretching to meet the horizon. The Maldives is a ce where the boundary between earth and sea blurs, and you feel like you¡¯re walking on the edge of the world.

    The breeze carried the scent of saltwater and the distant aroma of our earlier culinary adventures. It was a heady mix of spices and sea, a scent that was uniquely Maldivian. It was as if the very air here was infused with the essence of the inds.

    We watched as the sun, a molten orb of fire, sank lower and lower, casting long, painterly reflections on the water. The sky turned into a canvas of ever-changing colors, from fiery reds to soft purples. It was a visual symphony, a reminder that nature¡¯s artistry was unparalleled.

    We reached a spot where the beach curved, creating a small cove. The water here was especially clear, revealing a world of marine life just below the surface. We knelt down to examine the tiny fish darting about in the shallows, their colors a brilliant contrast to the sand beneath. It was a reminder of the vibrant underwater world the Maldives is known for.

    As the sun finally dipped below the horizon, we decided to sit by the water¡¯s edge. Sebastian reached into a bag he¡¯d brought along and pulled out a couple of coconuts. With a few skillful strokes, he opened them, and we savored the refreshing coconut water while gazing at the star-studded night sky that emerged above us.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.

    The constetions were unfamiliar, a reminder that we were far from our everyday lives, and that added to the sense of adventure. The Maldives was a ce where the ordinary melted away, and the extraordinary became the norm.

    We stayed on the beach, wrapped in the cocoon of our solitude, as the night deepened. The moon, a pale crescent, cast a silvery trail on the water. It was a romantic backdrop to a moment that felt like it had been plucked from a fairy tale.

    Then, we decided to go skinny dipping.

    Sebastian and I walked into the water and I noticed him staring at me. He had a mischievous grin on his face as he approached me. ¡°What?¡± I asked. Heughed and said, ¡°I think you know.¡±

    I blushed.

    He wrapped his arms around me and pulled me close to him. My heart started racing. ¡°I can¡¯t believe how much I want you right now,¡± he whispered in my ear. I felt myself get wetter just from that. I pressed my body against his and kissed him. I could feel his cock hardening against my stomach.

    I knew what he wanted. I took his hand and led him out of the water. Weid down on the sand, our naked bodies touching. I could feel his hot breath on my neck.

    He reached for my breast, squeezing it through my shirt. I moaned softly. He ran his fingers over my nipple. I bit my lip to stop myself from crying out. He leaned up and kissed me again.

    His tongue danced with mine. I could feel his hard cock pressing against my pussy. I spread my legs open and let him have ess to me. He rubbed his hard cock against me and I felt myself getting wetter.

    He pushed his cock inside me slowly. I let out a soft moan.

    He kissed me harder as he moved his hips back and forth. I grabbed his ass and helped him move faster. He was fucking me so deep.

    I could feel my orgasm building. I moaned louder and he picked up speed. I could feel my orgasm approaching. He kissed me even harder. He stopped moving and I felt him cumming inside me.

    He rolled off me andy next to me. I turned to look at him. ¡°I love you,¡± I told him. ¡°I love you too,¡± he replied.

 74

    The Maldives, Mia

    As the golden sun began its descent on the horizon, casting a warm, ethereal glow over the Maldivian paradise, I couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of bittersweet nostalgia. Today marked ourst day in this idyllic haven, a ce where time seemed to have its own rhythm, one that was slower, more rxed, and in harmony with nature. The days had passed in the blink of an eye, but they were filled with unforgettable moments shared with Sebastian.

    Our journey had been nothing short of magical, and the memories created in the Maldives were etched in my heart. The previous day had been a whirlwind of excitement, as Sebastian and I embarked on thrilling adventures that added to our treasure trove of experiences.

    The day had begun with an adrenaline rush as we hopped onto Sebastian¡¯s water scooter. It was a sleek, powerful machine that effortlessly glided across the crystal-clear waters, leaving a trail of foamy white waves in its wake. With the wind tousling our hair and the sun kissing our faces, we explored the surroundinggoons and had yful races, ourughter echoing over the water.

    But the day¡¯s excitement was far from over. In the afternoon, we boarded a luxurious yacht, ready to set sail on the azure sea. The yacht was a floating paradise,plete with a sun deck, plush loungers, and a crew that catered to our every whim. We sailed to nearby atolls, each more stunning than thest, and anchored at deserted sandbanks, where we indulged in private pics and snorkeling in the vibrant coral gardens.

    As the sun dipped lower on the horizon, we found ourselves on the yacht¡¯s deck, gazing at the breathtaking spectacle of nature. The Maldivian sunset, like a painter¡¯s masterpiece, transformed the sky into a kaleidoscope of colors. It was a moment of serene beauty that left us both in awe.

    Our hearts and minds were filled with the enchantment of the Maldives, and in the midst of this mesmerizing backdrop, I couldn¡¯t help but ask a question that had been on my mind for some time.

    ¡°What is your dream wedding destination?¡± I inquired, my voice carrying a tinge of curiosity. ¡°Even though we got married in your parents¡¯ living room, I¡¯m still wondering what your dream wedding is.¡±

    Sebastian chuckled, his eyes dancing with affection. ¡°You know, I¡¯ve never really thought about it,¡± he admitted. ¡°But if I were to choose a dream wedding destination, I¡¯d probably say Bali. I¡¯ve heard nothing but amazing things about it from my friends.¡±

    Bali  a ce synonymous with beauty, culture, and romance. The very mention of it evoked images of lush jungles, pristine beaches, and vibrant ceremonies. It was a destination that had captivated the hearts of many couples seeking an enchanting backdrop for their special day.

    It was true; Bali had a magical allure that was hard to resist. ¡°You know,¡± I said, ¡°I¡¯ve only heard wonderful things about Bali too. It¡¯s known for its natural beauty, and the culture is so rich and diverse. Maybe one day we can go there with our little one.¡±

    Sebastian¡¯s eyes lit up at the thought. ¡°And perhaps we could renew our vows or even give ourselves the proper wedding celebration we never had,¡± he suggested with a warm smile.

    The idea was like a beautiful dream, one that unfolded against the backdrop of a picturesque beach at sunset. Bali, with its lush rice terraces, vibrant markets, and rich traditions, seemed like the perfect ce to celebrate our love once more.

    ¡°That would be truly special,¡± I said, my heart swelling with warmth at the thought of reaffirming ourmitment in a ce as enchanting as Bali. ¡°And our little one would get to be a part of it. It¡¯s a wonderful idea.¡±N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.

    As I neatly arranged my clothes in the suitcase, I felt the room¡¯s ambience shift. Turning to Sebastian, who had been sitting by the window, I noticed a glint of excitement in his eyes.

    ¡°I have one thing left for you,¡± he said, his voice carrying a hint of mystery. I looked up at him, intrigued by his statement.

    ¡°What is it?¡± I asked, my curiosity piqued. Sebastian had a penchant for showering me with surprises, and it always made our moments together even more special.

    With a yful grin, he reached into his suitcase and retrieved a small gift box. The box was adorned with exquisite wrapping, tied with a satin ribbon. It was evident that he had put thought and care into its presentation.

    ¡°You really do shower me in gifts,¡± I remarked, a smile gracing my lips. Sebastian had a way of making every moment with him feel like a celebration of love and togetherness.

    He chuckled softly, his gaze tender and affectionate. ¡°I just want mydy to be happy.¡±

    I epted the beautifully wrapped box from him, marveling at its elegant appearance. The anticipation of what could be inside made my heart beat a little faster, and I was eager to uncover the mystery. The box felt slightly heavy in my hand, and I couldn¡¯t help but wonder what Sebastian had chosen for this final surprise.

    ¡°Open it,¡± he urged, his eyes filled with anticipation. Carefully, I untied the satin ribbon and delicately peeled away the wrapping paper. The box opened to reveal a smaller, velvet-lined case. My curiosity reached its peak, and I slowly lifted the lid.

    My eyes widened, and I gasped in astonishment as the sparkling beauty before me. Nestled within the velvet was a magnificent ne, adorned with an array of glistening diamonds. The gemstones shimmered in the soft glow of the room, casting radiant beams of light that danced across the space.

    Sebastian¡¯s voice broke the silence, and he smiled with pride. ¡°Your first investment ne.¡±

    I couldn¡¯t believe my eyes. The ne was a work of art, an embodiment of grace and elegance. The diamonds, each facet meticulously cut to perfection, sparkled like stars in the night sky. It was a piece of jewelry that could only be described as timeless, an investment not only in luxury but in the enduring symbol of our love.

    Touched by the significance of this gift, I looked up at Sebastian, my eyes shimmering with emotion. ¡°It¡¯s stunning,¡± I whispered, my voice filled with gratitude. ¡°You didn¡¯t have to do this.¡±

    Sebastian¡¯s expression softened, and he took the ne from its case. Gently, he reached behind me and fastened it around my neck. The cold touch of the diamonds against my skin sent shivers down my spine, and I was ovee by a profound sense of love and appreciation.

    ¡°It¡¯s a symbol of the beauty you bring into my life,¡± he said, his eyes locked onto mine. ¡°Every diamond represents a memory, a moment, and a promise. I wanted to give you something as timeless as our love.¡±

    As I admired the ne in the mirror, I couldn¡¯t help but feel a deep connection to this precious gift. It was more than just an investment; it was a token of our shared journey, a reminder of the love that had grown and deepened since our wedding.

    Sebastian¡¯s words resonated with me, and I nodded, my heart brimming with affection. ¡°Thank you, my love,¡± I said, my voice filled with emotion. ¡°This ne will always remind me of our unforgettable time here in the Maldives and the countless adventures we¡¯ll have together.¡±

 75

    New York, Mia

    Life in New York had resumed its bustling pace, a stark contrast to the serene tranquility of the Maldives that now felt like a distant dream. The memories of our Maldivian adventure had be an oasis in the midst of my hectic daily routine.

    I had returned to my job, a career in the fast-paced world of client meetings and deadlines. However, things were different now, and I wasn¡¯t just juggling workmitments. My belly had grown in the weeks since our Maldivian escapade, a visible sign of the new chapter in our lives.

    The bump, a testament to the life growing within me, was now unmistakable. It had its own personality, nudging me gently from time to time, as if reassuring me that it was there. And with this beautiful transformation came an adjustment in my daily life.

    As I finished myst client meeting of the day, I couldn¡¯t help but heave a sigh of relief. Work had be a little more challenging now that my energy reserves were more limited. I used to be able to manage a full schedule of clients, but now I found myself having to limit the number I could see each day. My body reminded me that rest was essential, and I had to heed its wisdom.

    Today had been particrly tiring. It started with an ultrasound appointment, where we got to see a glimpse of our little one on the monitor. That brief moment of connection, of seeing a tiny, moving figure, was enough to fill my heart with joy. It made the exhaustion worth it.

    After the appointment, I had to rush for a quick grocery shopping session. The cravings and appetite changes that came with pregnancy meant that I had to stock up on a variety of foods. It was an adventure in itself, discovering new tastes and ensuring that I had the right ingredients to satisfy my ever-changing pte.

    Then, back at work, I had two client meetings to attend. Each meeting required a level of focus and engagement that, despite my best efforts, left me feeling drained. However, the support of my colleagues and the understanding of my clients made it easier to navigate this new phase of my professional life.

    Despite the exhaustion, I couldn¡¯t help but feel grateful for the way things were falling into ce. Life had taken on a new rhythm, and the anticipation of meeting our little one made every challenge worthwhile.

    In the midst of my busy schedule, there was one particr moment that stood out in my memory. A few days ago, Sebastian¡¯s dad hade over for lunch. It was a simple gathering, but it held a significant weight in our hearts.

    His presence seemed different, lighter and happier than before. The reason was clear  the divorce had been finalized. The burden that had weighed on him for some time was now lifted, and he could move forward with a newfound sense of freedom and happiness.

    As the evening approached I found myself with a growling stomach. I decided to make a quick stop at our local pizza shop. The thought of a cheesy, satisfying dinner was motivation enough to brave the bustling city streets and the gathering twilight.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.

    I walked into the weing warmth of the pizza shop, greeted by the familiar scent of freshly baked dough and savory tomato sauce. The friendly staff behind the counter were hard at work, sliding pizza pies in and out of the ovens. It was the kind of ce where everybody seemed to know each other¡¯s name. I decided to get pizza for Be too.

    I ced my order for tworge pizzas, one with Be¡¯s favoritebination of toppings and another with my own. Our shared love for pizza was one of those simple pleasures that had brought us closer together. It was a tradition that had taken root from the early days of our rtionship, and it was one we cherished.

    As the staff busily prepared our order, I had a few minutes to spare. My phone buzzed in my bag, and I fished it out to check the notification. The caller ID disyed Sebastian¡¯s name. I smiled, thinking he was probably just checking in, maybe sharing some updates from his day.

    Just as I picked up the call, the moment was interrupted by the call from the counter. I walked over to collect our eagerly awaited pizzas, phone in one hand, dinner in the other, and greeted Sebastian with a casual ¡°Hey, what¡¯s up?¡±

    The moment that followed was one of eerie silence, an uncharacteristic pause in a conversation that felt disconcerting. I couldn¡¯t help but wonder if Sebastian had dialed my number by ident, causing an idental call.

    But then his voice came through, carrying words that shattered the ordinary evening. ¡°Your father just got released from jail.¡±

 76

    Los Angeles, Sebastian

    The meeting was in full swing, the conference room bustling with discussions and debates over thetest project. I was engrossed in the conversation, my attention fullymitted to the matters at hand, when my phone vibrated ominously on the table. I frowned, ncing at the caller ID, and my heart skipped a beat. The call was from Patrick.

    Excusing myself from the meeting, I answered the call, a feeling of dread washing over me as I held the phone to my ear.

    ¡°Hello?¡± I said, my voice tense with anticipation.

    The voice on the other end was shaky, and it was clear this call wasn¡¯t an easy one. ¡°Mia¡¯s father has been released from jail,¡± the voice said tersely, delivering the news without preamble.

    My mind raced as the implications of those words sank in. I had thought that Mia¡¯s father would serve a longer sentence, and this abrupt release was nothing short of shocking. It was a jarring reminder that the world could be unpredictable and unforgiving.

    ¡°Pissed¡± didn¡¯t even begin to cover my feelings. The sudden change in circumstances left me seething, both for Mia¡¯s safety and the emotional turmoil this news would surely bring her.

    Without wasting a moment, I contacted Mia, my fingers dialing her number as I paced the corridor outside the meeting room. She answered the call, her voice tinged with curiosity.

    ¡°Hello,¡± she said, a hint of uncertainty in her tone.

    ¡°Hi, my love,¡± I replied, my voice earnest butced with concern. ¡°I just received a call¡­ Mia, your father has been released from jail.¡±N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.

    There was a pause on the other end of the line, a heavy silence that mirrored the weight of the news. I could feel the shock and confusion in her response.

    ¡°What? How? Why?¡± Mia¡¯s voice wavered as she grappled with the sudden revtion. She, too, was struggling to process the unexpected turn of events.

    I reassured her as best as I could, my words chosen with care. ¡°I don¡¯t have all the answers right now, but I want you to be cautious. Keep an eye on your surroundings, and don¡¯t hesitate to call me if you ever feel uneasy or unsafe.¡±

    Our shared love had always been a source of strength and support, and I wanted Mia to know that she could rely on me during this challenging time.

    Once the call ended, I returned to the meeting, my thoughts continually drifting back to the disconcerting news I had just received. I struggled to concentrate on the matters at hand, my mind preupied with worry and frustration.

    When the meeting finally concluded, I wasted no time in calling Patrick, my brother and the person who had shared the news about her father¡¯s release. I needed answers, I needed to understand what had transpired.

    ¡°Patrick,¡± I began urgently as he answered the phone. ¡°What do you know about this? Why was Mia¡¯s father released? Is she safe?¡±

    Patrick¡¯s voice was as strained as my own as he replied, ¡°There isn¡¯t much information to go on. All I know is that someone paid his bail. I¡¯m just as shocked as you are. Mia is supposed to feel safe, and this¡­ this changes everything.¡±

    I cursed under my breath, a simmering mix of anger and anxiety overwhelming me. The sudden, inexplicable release of Mia¡¯s father cast a long shadow over the security and stability we had tried to build for her. It was a wrenching reminder that the past could intrude on the present in the most unexpected ways.

    Finally, as I made my way home, the sense of unease never left me. The journey back felt longer and heavier, the weight of concern bearing down on me. I knew Mia would be equally affected by the news, and my heart ached for the emotional turmoil she was undoubtedly experiencing.

    As I entered my home, I immediately dialed Mia¡¯s number, eager to hear her voice and reassure her once more. She answered, her voice a mixture of trepidation and relief.

    ¡°Hi, my love,¡± I began, my voice softer now, filled with understanding and affection.

    Mia responded in kind, her voice carrying theplexity of her emotions. ¡°Hi,¡± she replied, her words imbued with the knowledge that our world had shifted in an unexpected way.

    I mustered all my strength, my concern simmering beneath the surface. ¡°Mia, we need to talk about your father.¡±

    I could feel the shift in her tone as she replied, ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Is something happening?¡±

    Taking a deep breath, I decided to dive right in. ¡°Mia, I¡¯m worried about your safety now that your father has been released. We need to consider what¡¯s best for you.¡±

    Her voice held a hint of frustration as she responded, ¡°I appreciate your concern, but I¡¯m not moving to LA. My life is here in New York.¡±

    I had expected her resistance, but it still grated on my nerves. ¡°Mia, I know New York is your home, but with your father out of jail, I genuinely fear for your safety. We can¡¯t ignore the risks.¡±

    Mia¡¯s reply was sharp and stubborn. ¡°I can¡¯t believe you want me to uproot my life just because of my father. He¡¯s my problem, not yours.¡±

    I sighed, my patience wearing thin. ¡°It¡¯s not just about your father. It¡¯s about us, our future, and our family. I can¡¯t stand the thought of you being in danger.¡±

    The argument was escting, the lines ofmunication bing strained. We were both passionate and unwavering in our positions, and the tension was palpable.

    Mia softened her tone, attempting to reason with me. ¡°I know you¡¯re worried, and I appreciate that. But this decision needs to be mine. My father¡¯s actions shouldn¡¯t dictate how we live our lives.¡±

    The heated argument with Mia had reached a point where my patience had been stretched to its limits. Her stubbornness had always been a challenge, but the topic of her father¡¯s release from jail had intensified our disagreement to a breaking point. Frustration surged within me, and in a moment of exasperation, I ended the call abruptly, tossing my phone onto the bed with a groan of exasperation.

    I despised fighting with Mia, especially knowing that our disagreements often led to a deadlock. In any argument, there always seemed to be one person who was ¡°right,¡± and the other, in this case, was me, who felt like a helpless ¡°male.¡±

    My phone rang again, and I took a deep breath before answering, bracing myself for the continuation of our tense conversation. It was Mia on the other end of the line, her voiceced with irritation and a touch of humor.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry for hanging up on you,¡± I muttered, an apology that seemed necessary to restore some semnce of peace between us.

    Mia¡¯s reply was swift andced with defiance. ¡°Yeah, you better be. I just called back so I could be the one hanging up on you.¡±

    And with that, the line went dead, leaving me baffled.

 77

    New York, Mia

    Morning broke with its gentle light filtering through the curtains of my bedroom, casting a warm, soft glow across the room. It was a new day, but the absence of a message from Sebastian on my phone weighed heavily on my heart, leaving me with a sense of sadness that clung like a shadow.

    The night before had been difficult, marked by our first real argument. It was an unpleasant experience, one I had never wanted to face, especially with the person I loved deeply. The raw emotions that had emerged during our disagreement still lingered in the corners of my mind.

    As I nced at my phone, its screen void of any message, my heart sank. I missed the usual morning text from Sebastian, the one that started our day with affection and warmth. But afterst night¡¯s dispute, things had taken an unexpected turn.

    Our argument had been about moving to Los Angeles. Sebastian had proposed the idea, convinced that it was the best way to ensure my safety, considering the recent release of my father from jail. But I couldn¡¯t bring myself to make that decision. My life, my work, and my roots were firmly nted in New York, and the thought of moving to LA seemed like an upheaval I wasn¡¯t ready to embrace.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.

    With a heavy sigh, I contemted the events of the previous night. Our voices had risen, and our emotions had red. It was a sh of strong wills, a testament to the depth of our feelings and concerns. It was the first time our love had faced such a significant challenge, and it had left me with a sense of mncholy that was hard to shake.

    I had always thought of our love as a source of strength, something that could weather any storm. Yet, our first fight had been a stark reminder of theplexities that life could bring, even into the most loving of rtionships.

    As Iy in bed, I couldn¡¯t help but mull over the arguments on both sides. Sebastian¡¯s concern for my safety was genuine, and I couldn¡¯t dismiss it. My father¡¯s sudden release had injected uncertainty into our lives, and it was clear that Sebastian¡¯s proposal came from a ce of love and fear for my well-being.

    But my attachment to New York ran deep. This city had been my home for years, the ce where I had built my career, and it held a multitude of cherished memories. The thought of uprooting my life was unsettling, even in the face of legitimate concerns.

    My phone¡¯s silence weighed on me, but I couldn¡¯t bring myself to send a message either. The idea of prolonging our disagreement, of not resolving the tension that hung between us, was disheartening. I loved Sebastian deeply, and the distance that hade between us after our argument was a painful reminder of what was at stake.

    The day unfolded, a slow and somber procession of hours marked by an ufortable silence from Sebastian. As I stood in the bathroom, I turned on the shower, hoping that maybe, just maybe, he would text meter. The steady stream of warm water cascaded over me, providing a brief respite from the weight of the unanswered messages.

    With a heavy heart, I stepped out of the shower, wrapping myself in a towel as droplets of water clung to my skin. The steam-filled bathroom seemed to mirror the fog of uncertainty that had descended between Sebastian and me. I dried off, dressed, and took extra care with my hair, trying to regain a semnce of normalcy.

    As I left the bathroom, my phoney silently on the dresser, a solemn sentinel of my hopes and fears. I couldn¡¯t help but check it once more, finding no new messages from him. The unanswered ¡°hi¡± that I had sent earlier still lingered in my messages, marked ¡°delivered¡± but without a response.

    Feeling a gnawing emptiness in my chest, I decided to focus on other parts of my day. I ventured into the kitchen and prepared breakfast, the act mechanical and devoid of the usual enjoyment. A smoothie, a few slices of fruit, and a cup of coffee were all consumed in solitude. The taste of each bite and sip was marred by the lingering absence of Sebastian¡¯s usual morning messages.

    Despite the heaviness in my heart, I moved on to my morning exercises, determined to maintain some semnce of routine. But my usual energy was dampened, my movements less fluid, as my mind continued to grapple with theck ofmunication from the person I loved.

    By midday, the sun shone brightly outside, casting long shadows through the windows. The day was slipping away, and I couldn¡¯t ignore the reality any longer. There were still no messages from Sebastian, no indication of when we might reconcile.

    As the evening drew near, I found myself seated at the dinner table, the meal before me barely touched. Be, my ever-watchful friend, noticed the sadness in my eyes and approached, concern etched across her face.

    ¡°Is he still not messaging you?¡± Be asked gently, her eyes moving from me to my untouched dinner.

    I sighed, a heavy, defeated sound. ¡°No, Be, there¡¯s still nothing. I can¡¯t understand why.¡±

    ¡°You need to eat,¡± Be insisted, her tone filled with worry.

    With a sigh, I poked at my food with my fork, finding little appetite in the midst of my unease. My mind was preupied with thoughts of Sebastian, and I could hardly focus on the food before me.

    Be continued to watch me with a caring expression. ¡°Have you tried texting him?¡± she asked.

    My phoney nearby, and I reached for it, sending another simple ¡°hi¡± to Sebastian in the hope that it might prompt a response. My message was sent, but it lingered with the status ¡°delivered,¡± with no sign of a reply from him.

    Be offered aforting squeeze of my shoulder. ¡°He¡¯s probably very busy, you know, with work and everything. I¡¯m sure he¡¯ll get back to you soon.¡±

    The hope in her words was both reassuring and unsettling. I wanted to believe that he was simply busy, that our argument hadn¡¯t left asting rift between us. But the silence from him had a way of breeding doubt, and I couldn¡¯t help but wonder if there was more to the situation.

 78

    Los Angeles, Sebastian

    I paced back and forth in my room, the weight of the threatening phone call pressing heavily on my chest. It felt like deja vu, the memories of past troubles and turmoil rushing back. I had thought that our lives were finally settling into a semnce of normalcy, but now, once again, we were being threatened.

    After the unsettling call, I had immediately hung up on Mia, unable to bear the thought of sharing this frightening news with her over the phone. My mind raced, and I couldn¡¯t help but rey the menacing words in my head. The unknown caller had warned me that if I didn¡¯t divorce Mia instantly, both her and our unborn baby would be killed. They emphasized the gravity of the situation by adding that I couldn¡¯t tell anyone about the threat, as doing so would also seal Mia¡¯s fate.

    I was at a loss, torn between the urge to protect my family and the desire to confront this threat head-on. The thought of Mia and our baby being in danger was a nightmare I never wanted to face. In that moment, I didn¡¯t know whom to trust, and paranoia gripped me.

    The instinct to keep Mia safe took over, and I decided to confide in my best friend, Patrick. He was someone I trusted implicitly, and I knew that he would be a steadfast ally in this dangerous game that had unexpectedly reared its head.

    Dialing Patrick¡¯s number, I felt my hands tremble with unease. When he answered, his voice wasced with concern as he inquired, ¡°Sebby, what¡¯s wrong?¡±

    I hesitated for a moment, my words catching in my throat. ¡°Patrick, I need you to do something for me,¡± I finally said, my voice wavering with the seriousness of the situation. I proceeded to recount the threatening phone call, the ominous voice on the other end, and the ultimatum they had given me.

    Patrick¡¯s silence on the other end of the line was deafening, and I could sense the weight of my words sinking in. Finally, he spoke, his voice steady, ¡°Sebby, we¡¯ll get through this. We need to take every precaution to protect Mia and the baby.¡±This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.

    I knew I could rely on Patrick, and his support was a lifeline in this time of uncertainty. We agreed that he would discreetly keep an eye on Mia, ensuring her safety without arousing suspicion. I felt a glimmer of hope, a reassurance that we were not alone in this perilous situation.

    With Patrick¡¯s help, I hung up the phone, knowing that Mia and the baby were being looked after. But now I faced another dilemma, a choice that seemed impossible. Should I bow to the demands of this unknown threat and divorce Mia, or should I fight back against this sinister force?

    The conflicting emotions raged within me, and I couldn¡¯t find an easy answer. I felt trapped in a game of chess, with my family¡¯s lives hanging in the bnce. The room, once a haven offort, had transformed into a prison of uncertainty.

    The helplessness of the situation was overwhelming, and I needed an outlet for my frustration and fear. In a fit of anger and desperation, I grabbed a ss from the table and hurled it against the wall. The sound of shattering ss filled the room as my silent scream reverberated in the empty space.

    The shards of ssy scattered on the floor, mirroring the fragments of my thoughts. I couldn¡¯t allow this threat to dictate our lives, but I also couldn¡¯t risk the safety of Mia and our unborn child. The emotions battled within me, leaving me mentally and emotionally drained.

    I sat alone in the dimly lit living room, my phone resting on the coffee table before me, Mia¡¯s texts beckoning me. The messages were filled with her longing and concern, the words of a wife who missed her husband deeply. She had no idea of the storm that raged within me, the dilemma that tore at my heart.

    The seconds ticked away, and my inner turmoil continued to brew. On one hand, I yearned to respond to Mia, to ease her worries and reassure her of my love. But on the other, the truth stood as an unyielding wall. I could not lie to my wife. The stakes were too high.

    The weight of my silence bore down on me, and I groaned, feeling as though I were at war with myself. Our love was built on trust, and the thought of withholding the truth, even for what I believed to be a noble reason, felt like a betrayal.

    Mia had always been an independent spirit, determined to pursue her dreams and follow her own path. When the opportunity to chase her ambitions hade, it was a joy to see her flourish, but it also meant that we were physically apart more often than not. While I was proud of her, I couldn¡¯t help but feel the sting of loneliness and the gnawing fear for her safety.

    My mind was a battleground of emotions. I was angry at Mia for not wanting toe live with me, for not allowing me to be closer to her, to protect her. But at the same time, I understood her dreams, the fire that burned within her. She was still young, full of aspirations and potential. It wasn¡¯t fair to ask her to give up on her dreams just for my peace of mind.

    The silence in the room was deafening, and I couldn¡¯t escape the sense of helplessness. I was trapped in a paradox of my own making, torn between my love for Mia and mymitment to honesty.

    Exhaustion began to creep over me, a consequence of the inner battle that had raged all night. I longed for theforting presence of Mia by my side, but I knew that she was miles away, her dreams awaiting her in a different city. I leaned back on the couch, closed my eyes, and let the weariness overtake me.

    The warmth of the living room, the flickering light of the television, and the dull hum of the refrigeratorbined to create a luby, easing me into a deep, restless sleep.

    In my dreams, I saw Mia, her eyes filled with a mixture of love and longing. She reached out her hand, trying to bridge the physical distance that separated us, and I could almost feel her touch. But the dream was elusive, flickering like a distant star, and before I could grasp it fully, it dissolved into the abyss.

    As I awoke, disoriented and still torn by my conflicting emotions, I realized that it was morning. The first rays of sunlight filtered through the curtains, and the room felt brighter, less oppressive.

    I knew that I couldn¡¯t let my inner turmoil continue to fester. Mia deserved to know the truth, and I deserved the peace of mind that woulde with honesty. I reached for my phone, scrolled through the messages that I had been unable to reply to, and carefully typed my response.

    ¡°Mia,¡± I began, my fingers trembling as I tapped out each word. ¡°I love you more than anything, and I miss you deeply. But I need to tell you something important. Please call me when you can.¡±

 79

    Los Angeles, Sebastian

    After sending the message to Mia, I knew that the ball was in her court now. I desperately wanted to hear her voice, to reassure her, and to let her know what was happening. But mymitment to honesty meant I had to wait for her to call back, a moment of anticipation that weighed heavily on me.

    I decided to clear my mind by taking a shower. The hot water cascaded over me, soothing my tense muscles, and allowing my thoughts to drift back to Mia. As the steam filled the bathroom, I couldn¡¯t help but hope she was safe and that nothing untoward would happen to her throughout the day.

    The warm water did its part in relieving some of the tension that had built up within me, and by the time I stepped out of the shower, I felt more collected. I dried off, wrapped a towel around my waist, and made my way to the bedroom.

    Dressing for work felt like a mechanical process, my mind still preupied with thoughts of Mia. Ibed my hair and attempted to bring some order to my appearance. My attire was carefully selected butcked the usual enthusiasm I had for dressing up.

    My reflection in the mirror showed a man whose mind was far away, lost in abyrinth of emotions. I knew that the day ahead held important meetings and pressing responsibilities, but my thoughts were never far from my wife.

    After finally finishing my morning routine, I descended the stairs and entered the kitchen. Breakfast was a simple affair today, consisting of a bowl of cereal and a steaming cup of coffee. The sound of the cereal grains hitting the porcin bowl seemed louder than usual, almost echoing the solitude I felt at that moment.

    As I took the first bite of cereal, the vors felt nd, a stark contrast to the whirlwind of emotions that had consumed me in recent hours. I sipped my coffee, the warmth spreading through me but failing to chase away the chill of uncertainty that lingered in the air.

    With breakfastplete, I gathered my briefcase and the files I needed for the day¡¯s meetings. The familiar sound of my car keys jingling in my hand was a stark reminder that the day was moving forward, regardless of the tumultuous morning I had experienced.

    I walked out to my car, the sunlight filtering through the trees and creating dappled patterns on the pavement. The world around me seemed to carry on with its usual routine, oblivious to the turmoil that had shaken my own existence.

    As I settled into the driver¡¯s seat and started the engine, my reluctance to head to work remained. The responsibilities andmitments that awaited me there had always been a driving force, but today they felt like a burden I had to bear.

    The drive to work was filled with silence, the radio remaining off. My mind was too preupied with Mia and the unresolved situation that had unfolded in the morning. Every street I passed, every building I saw, reminded me of her.

    I knew that I had to be at my best for the uing meetings, to fulfill the professional duties that awaited me. But even as I pulled into the parking lot, I couldn¡¯t help but feel a pang of sadness and frustration.

    As I stepped into the office building, the bustling atmosphere of coworkers moving about and the familiar sights and sounds of the workce surrounded me. The weight of responsibility was as tangible as the air I breathed, and I braced myself for the day ahead.

    The meetings were important, and I needed to be fully present. It was a test of my ability topartmentalize my emotions, to set aside the personal turmoil and focus on the professional tasks at hand. I couldn¡¯t allow my concerns for Mia to cloud my judgment or hinder my performance.

    Inside the conference room, the discussions began, and I forced myself to engage fully, to listen intently, and to contribute to the proceedings. It was a deliberate effort, a tightrope walk between personal and professionalmitments.

    Amidst the speaker¡¯s words, I sensed a subtle motion to my side, something that broke the concentration I had built up over the course of the presentation. My assistant, who had been sitting beside me, leaned in closer, her eyes filled with a sense of urgency.

    My heart skipped a beat. What could be so important that she would interrupt the presentation? Was it Mia? A wave of fear washed over me, and I quickly excused myself from the room, making my way out.

    Once in the corridor, I reached her, my brows furrowed with concern. ¡°What happened?¡± I asked tersely, the anxiety in my voice impossible to conceal.

    My assistant met my gaze, her expression serious. ¡°You have a call, sir. It¡¯s important,¡± she replied, holding a phone out to me.

    My thoughts raced. I had feared that something had happened to Mia, but my assistant¡¯s demeanor didn¡¯t convey that kind of urgency. If it wasn¡¯t about my wife, then what could be so crucial? Still, I couldn¡¯t help but hope that my fears had been unfounded.

    I took the phone from her hand, a sense of trepidation coursing through me. My fingers tightened around the device as I brought it to my ear. ¡°Thornton,¡± I said tersely, my voice tinged with unease.

    On the other end of the line, I heard a voice I didn¡¯t recognize, distorted by some kind of software to make it sound different. The artificial tone sent a shiver down my spine. ¡°Sebastian,¡± the voice said in a monotonous, almost robotic manner. ¡°I only have one thing to say.¡±

    My heart raced, and I couldn¡¯t help but tense at the implications of the mysterious call. My immediate thought went to Mia. Were they threatening her? The voice continued, ¡°Come in one hour under the bridge that¡¯s not far from yourpany. The red bridge. If you want to keep your wife safe.¡±

    The message sent a shockwave of panic through me. I was torn between a rising sense of fear and the necessity to respond. ¡°What?!¡± I started, my voice filled with incredulity and anger, but before I could press for more information, the call abruptly ended.

    I stared at the phone, my mind racing, and my heart pounding in my chest. The threats were mounting, and the unknown caller had dragged Mia into this perilous situation. The weight of the message, the urgency in the voice, left me feeling powerless and vulnerable.

    The red bridge was a knownndmark, not far from mypany. Its structure held an air of familiarity, but now it represented a foreboding future, one filled with uncertainty and danger. I couldn¡¯t fathom the motive behind this ominous call, but one thing was clear: I had to respond, I had to ensure Mia¡¯s safety.

    My assistant watched me, her eyes filled with concern. ¡°Sir, what should we do?¡± she asked, clearly sensing the urgency of the situation.

    I knew I had no choice. My responsibility was not only to my wife but also to the safety of our unborn child. ¡°Call the police,¡± I instructed, referring to my best friend. ¡°Tell them to meet me at the red bridge.¡±

    My heart raced with panic as I tried calling Mia repeatedly, the repeated voicemail messages only fueling my anxiety. She wasn¡¯t picking up, and with each unanswered call, my fear for her safety intensified.

    In a desperate move, I dialed Be, hoping for any information about Mia. When she answered, I blurted out my concerns, barely able to conceal the worry in my voice. ¡°Be, where¡¯s Mia? I¡¯ve been trying to reach her, and she¡¯s not answering.¡±

    Be¡¯s voice carried a hint of surprise as she replied, ¡°Mia¡¯s at work. She left this morning for her job.¡±

    Relief washed over me. Knowing that Mia was at work brought a measure offort, but it didn¡¯t entirely ease the unease I felt about the ominous call I had received earlier. Still, it was a reassuring confirmation that Mia was safe at the moment.

    I ended the call with Be, thanking her for the information, and then rushed out of the building. My heart was still racing, and the fear that had gripped me remained a heavy weight. I needed to get to the red bridge, to confront the threat and ensure Mia¡¯s safety.

    My car was parked in the nearby parking lot, and I ran towards it, my mind fixated on the urgent need to reach the bridge. Every second that passed was a second Mia¡¯s safety was in question.

    As I pulled out of the parking lot, my thoughts were consumed by Mia and the impending confrontation. The drive to the red bridge was fraught with tension, the road stretching ahead seeming endless.

    The minutes ticked away, and as I approached the intersection that led to the bridge, I felt my foot move to the brake pedal. My heart pounded, and the weight of the impending encounter was palpable. My grip tightened on the steering wheel as I tried to slow down, but something was wrong.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.

    Panic coursed through me as I realized that the brakes were unresponsive. I pumped the brake pedal, but it was as if the car had lost its ability to stop. I could see a massive truck ahead, its towering presence blocking the road. The proximity to impact was immediate, and there was no way to avoid the collision.

    In that terrifying moment, everything went dark. The world around me vanished, and the screeching sound of metal against metal filled the air. The impact was brutal, and the car shuddered with the force of the collision. My body jerked forward, restrained by the seat belt, as the world around me was sent into chaos.

 80

    New York, Mia

    The busy day at work had been a whirlwind of meetings and appointments with clients, my office a constant stream of people seeking my expertise. I had onest-minute client, a woman who had flown all the way from Italy to see me, despite not having an appointment. I couldn¡¯t turn her away, knowing the effort she had made to get here.

    With patience and diligence, I had managed to amodate her, addressing her concerns and providing the guidance she needed. As she left my office, a grateful smile on her face, I leaned back into my chair, feeling a sense of aplishment, albeit mixed with exhaustion.

    The day had taken its toll on me, and I was in need of a moment¡¯s respite. The influx of clients had kept me upied, and while I was grateful for their trust in my expertise, the sheer volume of work had left me fatigued.

    As I reached for my bag, my intent was to grab my phone. I had put it on silent mode earlier to ensure an uninterrupted focus on my clients. But now, I was eager to check my messages and see what had transpired during the day.

    My heart skipped a beat when I nced at my phone¡¯s screen. The lock screen disyed a series of missed calls from Sebastian, along with a message from him. Be¡¯s name also stood out in the notifications. The sheer volume of calls and messages sent a surge of concern through me. Why had they tried to reach me so urgently?

    The messages and missed calls hinted at a sense of urgency, and I couldn¡¯t help but feel a growing sense of apprehension.

    I unlocked my phone and quickly essed the message from Sebastian. The message was terse, but the words carried an unmistakable sense of urgency: ¡°Mia, call me ASAP. It¡¯s important.¡±

    My heart raced, the sudden onset of anxiety prompting me to dial Sebastian¡¯s number immediately. As I waited for him to answer, I couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that something was amiss, that an unexpected crisis had emerged in my absence.

    My heart was pounding as I continued to dial Sebastian¡¯s number, each ring growing more anxious than thest. The urgency in his voice from our earlier conversation still resonated in my mind. I had to reach him, had to understand the nature of the crisis that had brought him to reach out.

    But the calls went unanswered. Sebastian¡¯s voice mailbox picked up, and my attempts to leave a message felt inadequate. The sense of unease intensified, gnawing at my insides. I couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that something was terribly wrong.

    Desperate for any information, I decided to call Be, hoping she might have some insight into Sebastian¡¯s whereabouts. When she answered, I didn¡¯t waste a moment. ¡°Be, I¡¯ve been trying to reach Sebastian, but he¡¯s not picking up. Do you know where he is?¡±

    Be¡¯s voice came over the line, carrying a note of concern. ¡°Mia, he did call me a few minutes ago, but I think he might be in a meeting right now. You should try calling himter.¡±Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.

    I appreciated Be¡¯s attempt to calm my fears, but the sense of urgency that had gripped me refused to relent. Sebastian had conveyed the importance of ourmunication earlier, and his unresponsiveness now was unsettling.

    With a heavy heart, I ended the call with Be, deciding to pay a visit to my assistant¡¯s office. I had a growing suspicion that Sebastian might have tried to reach out through her, and that there might be a message waiting for me.

    As I entered my assistant¡¯s office, she looked up from her work, her eyes reflecting my sense of unease. ¡°Have you heard from Sebastian?¡± I asked, my voice tense.

    She shook her head, her expression concerned. ¡°No. He hasn¡¯t called or left a message.¡±

    Dread settled like a heavy stone in my chest. The sinking feeling in my stomach grew more pronounced. Sebastian had said he had something important to tell me, and the fact that he hadn¡¯tmunicated in any way was deeply troubling.

    I left my assistant¡¯s office, my thoughts racing. The weight of concern for Sebastian gnawed at me, and my anxiety continued to grow. I needed to find out what had happened, to ensure his well-being, and to understand the urgency that had prompted his earlier call.

    As I retraced my steps back to my office, my mind was filled with questions. Where could Sebastian be? What could be so pressing that he couldn¡¯t pick up the phone? The minutes felt like hours, and every passing moment deepened my sense of unease.

    I decided to attempt calling Sebastian one more time, praying that he would pick up. The phone rang, and I held my breath, willing him to answer. But it went to voicemail once more.

    The sense of helplessness was overwhelming. I knew that I couldn¡¯t sit idly by, that I had to take action to locate Sebastian and understand the nature of the crisis that had unfolded.

    I reached out to Be again, my voice heavy with concern. ¡°Be, I still can¡¯t reach Sebastian, and he hasn¡¯t left a message with my assistant either. I need to find him. Can you try calling him or texting him?¡±

    Be¡¯s voice on the other end held a simr note of worry. ¡°Mia, I¡¯ll try calling him. I¡¯ll let you know if I reach him.¡±

    As I ended the call with Be, I continued to pace in my office, each moment of waiting like an eternity. The minutes passed, and there was no word from Be. My concern for Sebastian and the unanswered questions that surrounded his earlier call became a heavy weight I couldn¡¯t shake.

    My heart was still racing from my fruitless attempts to reach Sebastian, and my anxiety had reached a fever pitch when my phone rang. I practically lunged for it, hoping against hope that it would be him on the other end, that he would exin the reason for his absence and ease my growing fears.

    But as I nced at the caller ID, my heart sank. It wasn¡¯t Sebastian calling; it was Patrick. My brows furrowed in confusion. Why was Patrick calling me at a moment like this? We were all concerned about Sebastian¡¯s unexined absence, and thest thing I expected was for Patrick to be on the line.

    Hesitantly, I answered the call, a sense of foreboding settling over me. ¡°Patrick, what¡¯s going on?¡± I asked, my voice trembling with apprehension.

    There was a brief pause on the other end, a silence that stretched like an eternity. My heart pounded in my chest, and my anxiety continued to mount. Finally, Patrick spoke, his voice carrying a gravity I had never heard before.

    ¡°Mia, get ready,¡± Patrick said, his words sending shockwaves through my body. ¡°I¡¯lle pick you up. Sebastian got into a car ident.¡±

    The words hit me like a sledgehammer, a cruel twist of fate that shattered the world around me. My thoughts swirled in a chaotic maelstrom, and the room seemed to spin. Sebastian had been involved in an ident, and my heart ached with a sense of dread.

    I could barely find my voice as I stammered, ¡°What? Is he¡­ Is he okay, Patrick?¡±

    Patrick¡¯s voice was filled with concern, his words measured but tinged with the weight of the situation. ¡°Mia, we don¡¯t know the full extent of his injuries yet. I¡¯ll be there as soon as possible. Just get ready, okay?¡±

 81

    Los Angeles, Mia

    The private jet, usually a symbol of luxury andfort, felt more like a prison as I sat beside Patrick in silence. My thoughts swirled with the tormenting idea that it was all my fault. The deep-rooted sense of responsibility for what had happened to Sebastian gnawed at me, leaving me with a heavy heart and a mind clouded with guilt.

    Patrick, ever perceptive, seemed to understand the turmoil within me. He had been there since the moment I received that life-altering call, and he knew the turmoil that had taken hold of my soul. Although I wanted to ask for more details about Sebastian¡¯s condition, I couldn¡¯t bring myself to utter the words. The fear of hearing the worst was overwhelming, and I remained quiet, letting the weight of uncertainty hang in the air.

    As the jet touched down in Los Angeles, I felt a rush of anxiety. We were met by a car waiting to whisk us to the hospital. The city lights outside the window blurred into a surreal backdrop as my heart raced in anticipation of whaty ahead.

    The drive to the hospital felt like an eternity. The sense of dread hung over me like a dark cloud, and I couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that I was about to confront a life-altering reality. My thoughts returned to the ident, the unspoken details, and the questions that gnawed at my mind. How severe were Sebastian¡¯s injuries? Would he be okay? Could I have done something to prevent this?This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.

    The thoughts racing through my head as we arrived at the hospital were an intricate web of worry, guilt, and overwhelming relief. The heavy weight of uncertainty about Sebastian¡¯s condition had haunted me during the entire journey, and now, standing before the nurse, I felt a rush of apprehension.

    When she asked for ¡°Mrs. Thornton,¡± I nodded in acknowledgment. I followed the nurse to Sebastian¡¯s room, each step taking me closer to my husband¡¯s bedside.

    As I entered the room, the sight of Sebastian lying in the hospital bed with a cast on his hand was a poignant reminder of the ident and the injuries he had sustained. But the most important thing was that he was awake, and that fact alone filled me with immense relief. My heart soared as I ran up to him, his eyes glistening with emotion.

    ¡°You¡¯re here!¡± Sebastian eximed as I embraced him. I held him tightly, unable to contain the flood of emotions that welled up within me. The sense of guilt that had gued me was temporarily overshadowed by the joy of seeing him conscious and aware.

    I couldn¡¯t help but feel a profound sense of gratitude for this moment. Every apology, every doubt, and every fear that had gued my thoughts seemed to dissipate.

    Sebastian winced as I hugged him tightly, a reminder of the injuries he had suffered. ¡°Aw, my ribs,¡± he groaned.

    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry,¡± I said, pulling back slightly. Guilt resurfaced as I realized that even my presence might be causing him difort.

    Sebastian¡¯s eyes softened, and he shook his head. ¡°You don¡¯t need to apologize for anything, Mia. I¡¯m just d you¡¯re here.¡±

    But I couldn¡¯t stop apologizing. The guilt still lingered, and I felt the need to express my remorse, even if it wasn¡¯t entirely rational. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry about everything,¡± I repeated, my voice heavy with regret.

    Sebastian¡¯s gaze held mine, filled with understanding. ¡°Mia, you¡¯ve done nothing wrong. It was an ident, and you couldn¡¯t have prevented it.¡±

    His words were a soothing balm to my troubled conscience, and I took a deep breath, trying to release the weight of guilt that had burdened me. ¡°I just wish I could have been here sooner,¡± I admitted, my voice trembling with emotion.

    As I sat at Sebastian¡¯s bedside, I couldn¡¯t help but wonder about the details of the ident. My curiosity about what had happened was overshadowed by my desire to ensure Sebastian¡¯s well-being. But I couldn¡¯t help but ask, ¡°How did this happen?¡±

    Sebastian¡¯s expression grew somber as he recounted the details of the ident. ¡°It had something to do with the brakes of my car. They failed, and I lost control.¡± The exnation brought a shiver of unease, as I couldn¡¯t help but imagine the terrifying moments that Sebastian had endured during the ident.

    In the midst of our conversation, Sebastian¡¯s gaze shifted behind me, and I turned to see Patrick standing there.

    ¡°Brother,¡± Sebastian said, his voice tinged with emotion as he acknowledged Patrick.

    Patrick stepped closer, a mixture of relief and concern in his eyes. ¡°Sebastian, I¡¯m so d to see you awake and talking.¡±

    Despite the gravity of the situation, Sebastian managed to summon a hint of his usual humor. His eyes twinkled mischievously, and he quipped, ¡°You know, Mia, I always wanted to learn how to tap dance, but I think I overdid it with my car¡¯s ¡®brake dancing¡¯ routine.¡±

    His lighthearted joke elicited a warm smile from me, and I chuckled softly, grateful for the brief moment of levity in the midst of the heavy emotions that had enveloped us. Sebastian¡¯s ability to find humor in even the most challenging circumstances was one of the qualities that had endeared him to me over the years.

    Patrick joined in, offering a chuckle and saying, ¡°Sebastian, you¡¯ve got to teach me that move sometime. But maybe with a less dramatic backdrop, preferably on solid ground.¡±

    The weight of guilt and fear that had hung over me began to lift, reced by a sense of hope and camaraderie.

    In that moment, we chose to focus on the positive, to celebrate the fact that Sebastian was alive and on the road to recovery.

 82

    Los Angeles, Mia

    While I sat in the hospital room with Sebastian, the news he delivered weighed heavy on my heart. It seemed that even in the midst of his recovery, the shadows of danger and uncertainty continued to haunt us.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.

    Sebastian began to share the details of the new threat that had gued him, a revtion that sent a shiver of unease down my spine. It was a stark reminder that, despite our hopes for peace and safety, there were still forces at work that sought to disrupt our lives.

    As Sebastian spoke, I listened intently, my heart sinking with every word. The threat, the reason he had feltpelled to go to the red bridge, was a chilling reminder of the dangers that loomed over us. The sense of vulnerability was overwhelming, and I couldn¡¯t help but feel a growing sense of unease.

    The fear for Sebastian¡¯s safety, as well as my own, gnawed at me. We had thought that the drama and danger were behind us, that we could finally move forward with our lives. But this new revtion shattered our sense of security, leaving us in a state of turmoil.

    ¡°Have you found any leads?¡± Sebastian inquired, his voiceced with concern, as he turned to his brother, Patrick. We were all too aware of the importance of unraveling this threat and putting an end to the danger that loomed over us.

    Patrick¡¯s response was solemn as he shook his head. ¡°Not yet. We¡¯re still working on it, Sebastian. We¡¯ll do everything we can to get to the bottom of this.¡±

    After our discussion at the hospital, I decided to make a trip to Sebastian¡¯s home to gather more of his personal belongings. He was expected to remain at the hospital for two days, and I wanted to ensure he had everything he needed during his stay. The weight of recent events had left me with a deep sense of responsibility to look after him.

    Arriving at Sebastian¡¯s home, I moved with a sense of urgency, determined to pack his essentials. His home, usually a ce offort and warmth, now felt empty without his presence. I gathered clothes, toiletries, and personal items, making sure to pack everything he might require during his hospital stay.

    As I returned to the hospital and was in the midst of unpacking, there was a knock at the door, and I was surprised to find Sebastian¡¯s father standing there. The concern in his eyes mirrored the unease that had gripped our lives in recent days.

    ¡°Mr. Thornton, I didn¡¯t expect to see you here,¡± I said, stepping aside to let him in.

    He entered the room with a somber expression. ¡°Mia, I wanted to visit Sebastian and see how he¡¯s doing. But I also wanted to offer my help in any way I can. We need to find out who¡¯s been causing all this trouble.¡±

    His willingness to support us was reassuring, and I couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of gratitude for his involvement. Together, we discussed the recent threats and the danger that had befallen us. Mr. Thornton wasmitted to assisting us in any way possible, and his presence was a reminder that we were not alone in this battle.

    As I continued packing Sebastian¡¯s belongings, his assistant called, her voice filled with concern. She asked if she should reschedule all of Sebastian¡¯s meetings, given the circumstances. I knew that this was a challenging time, and I didn¡¯t want to overwhelm him further.

    I turned to Mr. Thornton, seeking his opinion. He nodded in agreement with the assistant¡¯s suggestion, understanding the importance of prioritizing Sebastian¡¯s well-being.

    ¡°Yes, please reschedule the meetings,¡± I told Sebastian¡¯s assistant. ¡°Sebastian needs time to recover and regain his strength.¡±

    However, Sebastian¡¯s voice came from the background, and he interjected, ¡°No, don¡¯t reschedule anything, Mia. I¡¯ll attend the meetings via Zoom. I can¡¯t afford to let this situation disrupt our business any further.¡±

    His determination was evident, even in the face of adversity. Sebastian¡¯smitment to his work and the responsibilities he carried was unwavering. I couldn¡¯t help but admire his resilience, even as he faced a daunting recovery ahead.

    I ryed his decision to the assistant, who seemed hesitant but ultimately agreed to proceed with the scheduled meetings. Sebastian¡¯s unwavering dedication to his work was both admirable and concerning. I knew that he was willing to bear the weight of his responsibilities, but I also understood the importance of allowing him to focus on his recovery.

    With Sebastian¡¯s belongings packed and ready, I left his home with a sense of purpose. The hospital awaited, and I was determined to return to his side, to be there for him during his stay, and to support him in any way I could.

    The nurse arrived with the evening meal, a tray of hospital food that left much to be desired. Sebastian, never one to mince words, immediately dismissed it. ¡°I¡¯m telling you, Mia, hospital food tastes like stic,¡± he remarked with a wry smile.

    I couldn¡¯t help but roll my eyes at hismentary. His aversion to hospital cuisine was well-known, and it was just one of the many quirks that made Sebastian, well, Sebastian.

    ¡°Of course, it does,¡± I retorted yfully. ¡°I¡¯ll see what I can do about that.¡±

    Determined to ensure that Sebastian had a more satisfying dinner, I decided to take matters into my own hands. I knew that his taste buds deserved something better than the nd hospital fare. I was well aware of his preferences, and one of them happened to be a particr Subway sandwich.

    Leaving the hospital room briefly, I made a quick trip to the nearby Subway restaurant. With a footlong sandwich and a bottle of refreshing apple juice in hand, I returned to Sebastian¡¯s room.

    ¡°Ta-da!¡± I announced, presenting the food as if I were revealing a culinary masterpiece. ¡°Hospital food, meet your match.¡±

    Sebastian¡¯s eyes lit up with delight as he saw the Subway sandwich and apple juice. ¡°See, this is why I love you,¡± he dered with a grin, appreciating the effort I had made to cater to his tastes.

    I couldn¡¯t help but roll my eyes again, but this time, it was apanied by a fond smile.

 83

    Los Angeles, Sebastian

    I sat in the hospital room that now turned into my home office, a virtual participant in yet another Zoom meeting. The business of the day carried on despite the events that had unfolded in recent weeks. My hand, still aching from the ident, was slowly healing, but the pain served as a constant reminder of the dangers that lurked in the shadows.

    As I focused on the meeting¡¯s agenda and the screen filled with the faces of my colleagues, my attention was asionally drawn to another screen in my line of sight. On that screen, Mia sat on the couch, her own virtual meeting in progress. The sight of her brought a warmth to my heart and a smile to my lips.

    I couldn¡¯t help but be immensely grateful for her presence. Mia¡¯s unwavering support and the fact that she was here with me in the same house was a source offort and reassurance. In the midst of our shared meetings and responsibilities, I found sce in the knowledge that she was safe, and we were together.

    The knowledge that Mia was no longer far away, that she was no longer in New York, brought a sense of relief I couldn¡¯t put into words. The threats and dangers that had haunted us had been a constant source of concern when she was miles away. But now, her presence provided a shield of protection, a defense against the unknown.

    My hand may have been healing, but the true balm to my worries was Mia herself. The bond between us was a source of strength that transcended the trials we faced. Seeing her on the couch, engrossed in her own meeting, was a visual affirmation of the love and partnership that defined our rtionship.

    On the other side of our challenges was my brother, Patrick, who remained tirelessly dedicated to uncovering the person or persons responsible for the threats that had haunted us. While I conducted my business on Zoom, Patrick was conducting his own investigation, determined to bring an end to the harassment that had disrupted our lives.

    Despite the pain in my hand, the weight of the ongoing investigation, and the demands of our respective work, I couldn¡¯t help but feel a profound sense of gratitude. The chaos and danger that had once clouded our days had given way to a sense of unity, purpose, and resolve.

    As the virtual meetings continued, I found myself stealing nces at Mia. It wasn¡¯t just her physical presence that filled me with joy but the sense of partnership and unity that had defined our rtionship. She was my rock, my anchor in turbulent waters, and I was grateful beyond measure for her unwavering support.

    Amid the virtual conversations and the clicking of keyboards, I knew that we were not alone. Patrick¡¯s dedication to the investigation, my colleagues¡¯mitment to their work, and the love that bound Mia and me together were the pirs of our strength.

    The uncertainty that had haunted us still lingered, and the threat that remained unidentified weighed on our minds. But as I watched Mia on her screen, her determination, her passion for her work, and her unwavering support for me were reminders that even in the face of adversity, love and unity could prevail.

    The meeting on Zoom continued, filled with discussions and presentations. I couldn¡¯t help but think of how far we hade, the challenges we had faced, and the strength we had discovered within ourselves.

    My hand may have ached, but my heart was full. The battle against the unknown was far from over, but I knew that with Mia by my side and Patrick¡¯s unyielding determination, we were prepared to face whatever challengesy ahead.

    As the virtual meeting finally concluded, a wave of anticipation washed over me.

    Simultaneously, I noticed that Mia¡¯s virtual meeting was alsoing to an end. It seemed that we were in sync not just with our schedules but also with our desire for lunch. With a grin, I motioned to her, inviting her to share a meal with me through our screens.

    Hospital food was a known offender when it came to vor and appeal, and I had developed a preference for having my assistant arrange for external meals. Today¡¯s lunch was an indulgentbination of noodles with vibrant broli and tender, sulent chicken. While it might not have been the healthiest option, the deliciousness of it was undeniable.

    Seated at my desk, I initiated a conversation with Mia. ¡°How was your meeting?¡± I inquired, genuinely interested in hearing about her virtual engagement.

    ¡°It was good. Productive, you could say. The usual updates and discussions.¡±

    A chuckle escaped me as I nodded in understanding. ¡°Likewise,¡± I responded. ¡°My meeting went well too.¡±

    As the pleasant conversation unfolded over our lunch, Mia and I couldn¡¯t help but appreciate the simplicity of sharing a meal and exchanging light-hearted banter. It was a cherished break from the seriousness of life¡¯s challenges, a reminder that even in the face of adversity, there was room forughter and camaraderie.

    With contented sighs, we leaned back in our chairs, the echoes of ourughter still hovering in the air. Thefort of our connection filled the space, creating a sense of unity and shared experiences.

    As I smiled at Mia, I couldn¡¯t help but remark, ¡°You know, Mia, it¡¯s remarkable how even in these trying times, we can find sce in something as simple as sharing a meal and trading banter.¡±

    Mia¡¯s eyes sparkled with that familiar mischievous glint. ¡°Absolutely, Sebastian. These moments create a sanctuary from the outside chaos, a reminder that no matter the circumstances, we¡¯re in this together.¡±This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.

 84

    Los Angeles, Mia

    As I stood in the hospital restroom, having just finished a pleasant lunch with Sebastian, my phone suddenly sprang to life. ncing at the screen, I was taken aback by a name that had been absent from my life for years  ¡®Mom.¡¯ The realization that my mother was reaching out to me, after such a prolonged silence, filled me with a mixture of curiosity and hesitation.

    The tumultuous rtionship I had with my mother was defined by the years of enduring my father¡¯s oppressive behavior. During my childhood, I harbored resentment and anger toward her for her perceivedplicity in my mistreatment. However, as I grew older and gained a deeper understanding of theplex dynamics at y, my emotions shifted from resentment to a deep sense of pity for her.

    The past few years had seen my mother¡¯s absence from my life. It was as if she had gone into hiding, undoubtedly driven by the fear of my father¡¯s wrath. This unexpected call was a rupture in that self-imposed exile, a fragile connection to a woman who had once been a distant but ever-present figure in my life.

    Taking a deep breath to steady my emotions, I answered the call with a simple, ¡°Mother.¡±

    There was a pause on the other end of the line, a momentary silence that hung heavy with unspoken emotions. I could almost hear the tremor in her voice as she finally responded, ¡°Mia, my dear, it¡¯s been such a long time.¡±

    The sound of her voice, so familiar yet distant, brought a wave of memories crashing back. Despite the pain of our shared history, I couldn¡¯t deny the tinge of nostalgia that welled within me. ¡°Yes, it has been,¡± I replied, my voice carrying a mix of emotions.

    She continued hesitantly, ¡°I¡¯ve been thinking about you, Mia. I¡¯ve missed you.¡±

    Her words touched a chord in me, and I couldn¡¯t help but feel a surge of empathy for the woman who had once been the recipient of my resentment. ¡°I¡¯ve thought about you too, Mother,¡± I admitted.

    The conversation seemed to teeter on the edge of what had gone unsaid for years. The unspoken regrets and pain, the silence that had hung between us like an insurmountable chasm. Now, with the fragile thread ofmunication restored, I was torn between wanting to know why she had reached out and fearing what it might mean for both of us.

    She finally broke the silence, her voice trembling. ¡°Mia, I wanted to talk to you because¡­because I¡¯ve left your father. I can¡¯t live that way anymore.¡±

    The shock of her words reverberated through me. I had never imagined my mother taking such a decisive step, escaping the clutches of a man who had held her captive for so long. My initial reaction was a mixture of disbelief and cautious hope. ¡°You left him?¡±

    ¡°Yes,¡± she replied, her voice filled with a mix of fear and determination. ¡°It wasn¡¯t easy, but I had to do it for my own sake, and for yours.¡±

    As she spoke, I could hear the quiver in her voice, the fragility of her newfound freedom. My heart went out to her, for she had faced the daunting challenge of escaping a life of oppression and cruelty.Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.

    I found myself saying, ¡°I¡¯m d you found the strength to leave, Mother. You deserve to live a life free from fear.¡±

    The relief in her voice was palpable as she responded, ¡°Thank you, Mia. I was so afraid of what your father would do if he found out, but I couldn¡¯t stay trapped any longer. I want to reconnect with you, to rebuild the rtionship we once had.¡±

    Despite theplexities of our history, I felt a glimmer of hope that perhaps, in this newfound freedom and her desire to make amends, we could forge a new connection. ¡°I¡¯m open to rebuilding our rtionship, Mother. But it won¡¯t be easy. There¡¯s so much to address and heal from.¡±

    She nodded on the other end, her voice full of understanding. ¡°I know, Mia. I¡¯m prepared to face the past and make amends for my mistakes. It¡¯s a long road, but I¡¯m willing to walk it. Also there¡¯s something I need to tell you.¡±

    ¡°What do you need to tell me, Mother?¡± I inquired, my voice steady but my heart racing with a mix of anticipation and trepidation.

    Her response carried a weight that bore down on both of us. ¡°It¡¯s not going to be easy,¡± she began, her voice quivering. ¡°But your father is behind it all.¡±

    The cryptic statement left me puzzled, my brows furrowing with concern. ¡°Behind what?¡± I pressed, my curiosity overtaking my caution.

    There was a brief pause, as if the words were difficult for her to articte. ¡°Sebastian¡¯s car ident,¡± she finally revealed. ¡°It wasn¡¯t an ident. He messed with the brakes.¡±

    My eyes widened in shock, my mind racing to process the enormity of what she had just disclosed. The room seemed to spin as the implications of her words settled in. ¡°How do you know this, Mother?¡± I asked, my voice trembling. ¡°Are you sure?¡±

    Her voice, tinged with remorse, held a measure of certainty. ¡°I have heard him talk on the phone with someone,¡± she admitted. ¡°He¡¯s in Los Angeles now.¡±

    The revtion that my own father might have had a hand in the ident that had befallen Sebastian was beyond belief. It was a chilling revtion that sent shivers down my spine, the pieces of a disturbing puzzle slowly falling into ce.

    My mother¡¯s voice wavered as she continued, ¡°I don¡¯t have all the details, Mia, but I couldn¡¯t bear the thought of not telling you. He¡¯s dangerous, and I fear for your safety as well.¡±

    In the midst of my shock and apprehension, a swirl of emotions threatened to overwhelm me. My father had always been a domineering figure in my life, a source of fear and control. The thought that he might be capable of such a sinister act was staggering.

    My mind raced with questions. ¡°Mother, do you know why he did this? What¡¯s his motive?¡±

    Her reply came with a heavy sigh, a sense of regret permeating her words. ¡°I can¡¯t be certain of his motives, Mia. But I know that he has been involved in dangerous dealings for a while now. The people he associates with¡­ they¡¯re not the kind of individuals one would want to cross.¡±

    As I digested this revtion, a sense of urgency welled within me. ¡°You¡¯ve done the right thing by telling me, Mother. But we need to take action. Sebastian is in the hospital in Los Angeles, and I need to be with him.¡±

    My mother¡¯s voice quivered as she spoke. ¡°Mia, please be careful. Your father is not someone to underestimate. He won¡¯t let you go easily.¡±

    I nodded, my resolve firm. ¡°I understand, Mother. I¡¯ll take every precaution to protect myself and those I care about. But right now, I need to be with Sebastian.¡±

    The weight of our conversation hung heavily in the air as I prepared to leave the hospital. The newfound knowledge that my father might have yed a sinister role in Sebastian¡¯s ident added ayer ofplexity to the challenges we faced.

    My mother¡¯s voice was filled with a mix of sorrow and hope as she spoke her final words. ¡°I hope one day you can forgive me for the years I allowed this to happen. And I hope you find the answers you seek.¡±

    With a heavy heart, I bid my mother farewell and disconnected the call.

 85

    Los Angeles, Mia

    As I entered Sebastian¡¯s hospital room, my entire being was trembling. The weight of the shocking revtion from my mother had left me pale and shaken, and I knew I couldn¡¯t keep this truth from the man I loved. Sebastian, who had been in the hospital bed, nced at me with concern etched across his face. His voice, gentle and filled with worry, broke through my turmoil. ¡°Mia, what happened? Are you alright?¡±

    My throat felt dry, my words caught in a whirlwind of emotions. I struggled to form a coherent response, the enormity of the revtion threatening to consume me. ¡°It¡¯s¡­ it¡¯s my father,¡± I finally managed to stammer, my voice trembling with the weight of the truth I had to share. ¡°My father is behind your ident.¡±

    Sebastian¡¯s eyes widened in shock, and for a moment, silence hung heavy in the room. I could see the turmoil in his expression, the realization of what I had just disclosed sinking in. The man I loved had been the victim of a sinister act, orchestrated by someone who was supposed to be my family.

    He finally broke the silence, his voice a mix of disbelief and concern. ¡°Your father?¡± he uttered, his brows furrowing as he struggled to grasp the gravity of the revtion. ¡°How¡­ how do you know this, Mia?¡±This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.

    Tears welled up in my eyes as I spoke, the weight of the truth crushing me. ¡°My mother told me,¡± I confessed. ¡°She¡¯s been living in fear of my father for years, and she heard him talking about it. He¡¯s in Los Angeles, and she¡¯s afraid for your safety, for mine.¡±

    Sebastian, his own emotions roiling, reached out to take my trembling hand, providing a reassuring anchor in the midst of this storm. ¡°Mia, I can¡¯t imagine how difficult this is for you,¡± he said, his voice filled with understanding. ¡°But we need to act on this information, for your mother¡¯s sake, for our sake.¡±

    My heart ached as I nodded in agreement, determined to take action and protect Sebastian, my mother, and myself. ¡°I know, Sebastian,¡± I said, my voice steadying as I focused on the task at hand. ¡°We need to ensure your safety and uncover the truth about what happened.¡±

    Sebastian¡¯s face was etched with determination as he responded, ¡°First, we need to let the authorities know about this. They can investigate and ensure that your father is held ountable for his actions.¡±

    His words offered a glimmer of hope amid the chaos of this revtion. We could involve the proper authorities and bring my father to justice, ensuring that he faced the consequences of his sinister act.

    With my mind set on a n of action, I continued, ¡°I¡¯ll call the authorities and Patrick and share everything my mother told me. They canunch an investigation, and we can cooperate fully to provide any information they need.¡±

    Sebastian squeezed my hand in appreciation, his trust unwavering.

    The hospital room was soon filled with a sense of urgency as Patrick and the authorities arrived. My hands trembled as I recounted every detail my mother had shared with me about my father¡¯s involvement in Sebastian¡¯s ident. The gravity of the situation weighed on me, but I knew that taking swift action was crucial.

    As I sat on the hospital couch, sipping on a ss of water to calm my nerves, Sebastian remained steadfastly by my side. His strong presence and the reassuring touch of his arms around me provided a lifeline in the midst of the storm. He whisperedforting words as the authoritiesunched their investigation andunched a search party to locate my father.

    ¡°It¡¯s going to be alright,¡± Sebastian murmured, his voice a soothing balm to my frayed nerves. ¡°We¡¯re taking the necessary steps to ensure your safety and bring your father to justice.¡±

    I nodded, the emotions swirling within me, from fear and anxiety to determination and hope. ¡°Thank you, Sebastian,¡± I whispered, my gratitude and love for him overwhelming.

    With the authorities departing on their mission to locate my father, we were left in the hospital room, a sense of both relief and tension in the air. The uncertainty of my father¡¯s whereabouts hung over us, a reminder of the danger that still loomed.

    In an effort to escape the overwhelming thoughts, we decided to watch a movie together. We curled up on the hospital bed, our bodies intertwined, and allowed the movie to transport us to a different world, if only for a brief respite.

    The distraction of the movie allowed us to temporarily put aside the anxieties that had dominated our thoughts. As weughed at the film¡¯s humor and found sce in each other¡¯s presence, a sense of unity and love permeated the room.

    During the movie, my mind was preupied with silent prayers, hoping that the search party would quickly locate my father and bring an end to the threat that had gued us. I yearned for the safety and peace that had been so elusive in recent times.

    As the credits rolled and the movie came to an end, we remained wrapped in each other¡¯s arms, the tension in the room gradually dissipating. Sebastian¡¯s unwavering support and the actions taken by Patrick and the authorities offered a glimmer of hope, a belief that we were on the path to justice and resolution.

    Sebastian pressed a gentle kiss to my forehead, his voice filled with a reassurance that resonated deep within me. ¡°We¡¯ll get through this, Mia. Together.¡±

    Just as we were basking in a rare moment of tranquility, my phone rang, and the name ¡°Patrick¡± shed on the screen. My heart leaped with anticipation as I answered the call, clutching the phone tightly in my hand.

    Breathless and anxious, I waited for Patrick¡¯s words, the tension in the room palpable. Then, a sense of relief washed over me as Patrick¡¯s voice came through the phone,den with a profound reassurance.

    ¡°Your father got caught,¡± he announced, his words carrying the weight of a burdensome secret finally unveiled. ¡°You are all safe now.¡±

 86

    New York, Mia

    I was on my way back to New York. The journey had been a long timeing, a relief that felt like the first rays of sunlight after a stormy night. The reason for my return was simple and profound: Sebastian had finally been released from the hospital. His recovery had been a grueling process, marked by endless hours of waiting and praying for any sign of improvement. And yesterday, we received the news we had longed for  he was going to be okay.

    I had taken a leave of absence from my job in New York to be by Sebastian¡¯s side. Work had be a distant memory as my sole focus became his recovery. Every small sign of progress, every flicker of consciousness, brought tears of joy and relief.

    But there was another reason that returning to New York was such a significant milestone in my life. My dad was once again in prison. This time, it was different. This time, the sentence was much longer, and it was clear he would not be released anytime soon. The relief that washed over me when I heard the news was overwhelming.

    This time, his actions had finally caught up with him. The legal system had spoken, and my father was facing the consequences of his choices. While part of me still held a flicker of hope that he might change, arger part of me was relieved that I could finally breathe easy. The cycle of fear and disappointment was broken, at least for now.

    As the ne descended towards New York, my heart was filled with a mix of emotions. Happiness for Sebastian¡¯s recovery, relief for my father¡¯s absence, and anticipation for the life I was about to resume. I had missed the city¡¯s energy, its relentless pace, and its opportunities. It was a ce where I could rebuild my life, free from the shadows of the past.

    Once the nended, I collected my luggage and made my way through the bustling airport. Be, my friend and a constant source of support, was waiting for me. Her smile was infectious, and I couldn¡¯t help but return it. We shared a tight embrace, a wordless expression of the bond that had grown between us over the years.

    ¡°Wee back,¡± Be said, her eyes filled with warmth.

    ¡°Thank you,¡± I replied, my voice catching with emotion. It was good to be back, and it was even better to have a friend like Be waiting for me.

    We decided to go to a nearby coffee shop to get something to drink and catch up. The familiar aroma of freshly brewed coffee hit me as we stepped through the door. The ce was cozy, with soft jazz ying in the background, and the low hum of conversation providing aforting backdrop.

    We settled into a corner booth, and as I took the first sip of mytte, I realized how much I had missed the simple pleasures of life in the city. Be and I began to talk, and it was as if no time had passed. She filled me in on thetest gossip, the changes in the neighborhood, and the ups and downs of her own life.

    As we sipped our coffee and exchanged stories, I couldn¡¯t help but feel grateful for our friendship. Theughter and camaraderie we shared were like a warm embrace, and it was as though no time had passed at all. After a while, Be leaned in, her voice hushed in a conspiratorial tone.

    ¡°You know what, I have a brilliant idea. How about we make this catch-up even more memorable and head to the mall for some retail therapy?¡±

    I raised an eyebrow, intrigued by her enthusiasm. ¡°Retail therapy, huh? What¡¯s the catch?¡±

    Be winked. ¡°No catch, just a good ol¡¯ shopping spree, and maybe a bit of harmless mischief. It¡¯s been ages since we¡¯ve had an adventure, and I¡¯m determined to make this day unforgettable.¡±

    I couldn¡¯t resist her infectious enthusiasm, and before I knew it, we were at the mall, weaving through the bustling aisles of our favorite stores. Be was like a whirlwind, grabbing items left and right and giving her colorfulmentary.

    ¡°Look at this neon green sweater! I think it¡¯s perfect for blending in with aliens,¡± she said with a wink.

    I burst intoughter. ¡°Aliens, Be? Really?¡±

    She shrugged, still holding the sweater. ¡°You never know when you might need to disguise yourself. Plus, it¡¯s so soft!¡±

    We continued our shopping escapade, and Be couldn¡¯t resist trying on some outrageously extravagant outfits, parading in front of the mirror as if she were a runway model. She emerged from the changing room wearing a sparkly sequined dress,plete with a feathered boa.

    ¡°Darling, how do I look?¡± she asked with a theatrical flourish.

    I couldn¡¯t help but y along, pretending to be a fashion critic. ¡°Well, Be, it¡¯s a bold choice. The sequins really scream ¡®party,¡¯ and the boa adds a touch of extravagance. But I must say, you¡¯re missing a tiara toplete the look.¡±

    Be gasped dramatically. ¡°You¡¯re absolutely right! How could I forget the tiara?¡± She marched back into the changing room, leaving me in stitches.

    Ourughter drew curious nces from other shoppers, but we didn¡¯t care. Be had this incredible ability to turn even the most mundane moments into a riot of fun.

    As we continued exploring the mall, Be¡¯s mischief knew no bounds. She convinced me to try on a pair of oversized, neon sunsses and dance through the aisles to the beat of the mall¡¯s background music. Shoppers gave us bewildered looks, but we didn¡¯t let that deter us. We were having the time of our lives.

    At one point, we found ourselves in a store that specialized in quirky gadgets and gizmos. Be picked up a tiny, remote-controlled robot and eyed it mischievously.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°Wouldn¡¯t it be hrious to drive this little guy into the shoe store next door and watch people¡¯s reactions?¡± she suggested.

    I couldn¡¯t resist the temptation. With Be operating the remote control and me stifling myughter, we sent the tiny robot on a hrious and unexpected adventure. The reactions from shoppers were priceless, ranging from surprise to amusement.

    After the robot adventure, we finally decided to tone down our mischief and continued with some more conventional shopping. We found some beautiful dresses, stylish shoes, and even managed to pick out thoughtful gifts for each other.

    By the time we left the mall, our shopping bags were overflowing, and our hearts were light. Be and I shared a knowing look, realizing that our day had been everything we¡¯d hoped for ¨C a wonderful catch-up filled withughter, spontaneity, and unforgettable moments.

 87

    New York, Mia

    Several months had passed, and I found myself in a situation that can only be described as surreal. My body had expanded to the size of an elephant, and each day had be a struggle. Pregnancy was far from easy, and I couldn¡¯t wait for it to be over. Fortunately, thest few weeks were approaching, or so I thought.

    One typical day, I was in the kitchen, diligently working on the never-ending pile of dishes. The weight of my condition was omnipresent, but I had grown ustomed to it over the months. I was lost in my thoughts when, suddenly, I felt something unusual trickling down my thigh. Panic set in, and I whispered, ¡°Oh, no.¡±

    Sebastian, my partner, was in the living room, engrossed in something on the TV. His voice echoed through the house, ¡°What happened?¡± Concernced his words as he rushed into the kitchen, confusion evident on his face. ¡°Did you pee on the kitchen floor?¡±

    I mustered a weak smile amidst the chaos, but there was no denying the reality of the situation. ¡°My water broke,¡± I told him, trying to maintain myposure. The shock was palpable, and panic immediately coursed through his veins.

    ¡°Holy shit, wait, I need to get your stuff,¡± Sebastian stammered, his thoughts racing as he contemted the impending trip to the hospital. His mind darted around the room, grasping for the hospital bag we had packed weeks ago. In moments like these, it¡¯s easy to forget where you¡¯ve ced something important.

    As he frantically scurried around, my difort escted. The cramps in my stomach intensified, and I groaned as I clutched the kitchen counter for support. Contractions had begun, and they were no joke. Each one felt like a vice grip, squeezing my body mercilessly.

    Sebastian returned with the hastily retrieved hospital bag and his keys. The look on his face was a blend of fear and excitement, reflecting the whirlwind of emotions we were both experiencing. He helped me to my feet, his hands steady despite his racing heart.

    The contractions wereing in waves, each one more intense than thest. I breathed deeply, trying to ride the storm that had erupted within my body. Sebastian guided me to the front door, his voice reassuring as he told me to focus on my breathing and the prospect of soon meeting our baby.

    Getting into the car was a monumental task. My body had grown unwieldy, and the contractions made even the simplest of movements a challenge. We managed to squeeze me into the passenger seat, and Sebastian revved the engine. The hospital, which had felt so far away until now, was suddenly just a few miles down the road.

    During the drive, I clung to the handle above the window, my knuckles white with tension. Sebastian¡¯s eyes were locked on the road, his grip on the steering wheel equally tight. We were in this together, navigating the path to parenthood with a mixture of excitement and trepidation.

    The hospital¡¯sbor and delivery unit loomed in the distance, and my heart raced. We pulled into the parking lot, and with every contraction, my resolve grew stronger. This was it. Our baby was on the way, and there was no turning back now.

    Once inside the hospital, the medical staff quickly took over. I was wheeled into a delivery room, the bright lights and medical equipment serving as a stark contrast to the cozy, familiar atmosphere of our home. The room buzzed with activity, and I was grateful for the skilled hands andpassionate voices that surrounded me.

    As the contractions continued, I relied on every breathing technique and rxation method I had learned during prenatal sses. Sebastian was by my side, offering words of encouragement and holding my hand through the pain. His presence was a source of strength, grounding me in the midst of the whirlwind.

    Hours passed, and the contractions grew more intense. The hard work ofbor had begun, and there was no going back. The medical team guided me through each step, and I could feel the moment drawing nearer. The pain was excruciating, but the promise of meeting our child kept me going.

    Finally, after what felt like an eternity, the moment arrived. With onest, monumental push, our baby entered the world, and the room was filled with the cries of new life. Tears of joy and relief streamed down my face as they ced our precious child in my arms.

    Sebastian, his face mirroring my emotions, leaned in to kiss both me and our newborn.

    ¡°His name is Luca Thornton.¡±This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.

    The End.

 88

    BONUS

    The alluring aroma of cinnamon swirls around the air, illuminating the hint of pencil-on-paper as I finish mytest project.

    I looked up from myputer, that was hot from the many hours I was working on it, to only see my college friend and boss Ximena Vasilios standing in the doorway of my office. She shook her head lightly as she walked over towards me.

    She was the definition of beauty and brains. With long tanned legs, shiny blonde hair, and light green eyes, she got tons of requests from modeling agencies when we were in college and even after we graduated.

    They stopped sending her requests when they noticed that she was totally not interested in bing a model, instead she chose the path of business.

    ¡°Is that cinnamon roll?¡± I asked, pointing at the brown paper bag that she was holding.

    The smell of cinnamon was so strong that there¡¯s no doubt that it wasn¡¯t a cinnamon roll.

    ¡°Dammit, how did you know?¡± she asked defeated, handing me the brown paper bag and cup with coffee.

    ¡°Hot, ck, and sweet?¡± I queried referring to the cup of coffee she just handed me.

    ¡°Hot, ck, and sweet.¡± she repeated with a chuckle, as she took a seat in front of me.

    She knows me so well.

    I opened the brown stic bag and couldn¡¯t help but inhale the smell of fresh cinnamon.

    It smelled so good, just like the good old times in Barcelona.

    I shook my head.

    Now is not the time to think about Barcelona. I let out a deep sigh.

    ¡°You don¡¯t need to overwork yourself, you know that right?¡± Ximena said, taking a bite of her doughnut, leaving trails of sugar behind on her upper lip.

    ¡°I¡¯m just doing my job Ximmy.¡± I replied with a smile, as I took a sip of my coffee.

    Delicious and refreshing.

    ¡°I know, but you don¡¯t have to skip lunch time.¡± She said, rolling her eyes at me.

    ¡°I don¡¯t skip lunch time.¡±

    ¡°Well, I don¡¯t want you to eat in front of yourputer. Go outside, get some fresh air, be healthy.¡± she lectured. She reminded me of my Aunt Lydia. Aunt Lydia never like the idea of me being behind theputer for several hours to finish an assignment for school. But there wasn¡¯t anything I could do. The only way I could get schrships was if I was a straight A student.

    ¡°You sound like my aunt Lydia.¡± Iughed.

    ¡°I don¡¯t care, bytheway how¡¯s your aunt Lydia doing?¡±

    ¡°She¡¯s doing really well.¡±

    ¡°And what about Mn?¡± Ximena asked.

    ¡°Mn is turning six next month.¡±

    ¡°Are you going to his birthday party?¡±

    I nodded my head. ¡°Yes, I don¡¯t have a choice; I missed his birthday for the past two years.¡±

    ¡°Sweet, bytheway my brother ising back in town today.¡±

    ¡°Flynn?¡± I asked, even though I knew she only had one brother.

    ¡°Yes, I will ask him if I can borrow his yacht for the weekend, we will have so much fun!¡±

    ¡°Why was he out of town?¡± I asked curiously.

    ¡°Oh, because his girlfriend was pregnant and she gave birth a week ago. Strange that he¡¯sing back so soon.¡± Ximena noticed frowning. ¡°But then again we haven¡¯t seen him since Christmasst year. I think he will just stay for a while and then go back to his wife and baby.¡±

    I shrugged; I didn¡¯t really care about her brother. He was bad news.

    Flynn Vasilios, the CEO of Vasilios Global Real estate, a multi-billionpany. He was known for as a womanizer, as well as the hottest CEO of America and Europe. With a perfect sculpted jawline, chiseled facial features, blonde hair, and piercing blue eyes, he was the dream man of every woman. I only saw him once. That was on the day me and Ximena graduated. I saw him from afar and he was handsome. God definitely took his time on him.

    ¡°I¡¯m surprised that my brother is here.¡± Ximena had said.

    ¡°Why?¡± I questioned.

    ¡°He¡¯s always so busy; I didn¡¯t think he would make time for this.¡±

    ¡­¡­.

    We were busy talking and finishing our lunch when someone just barged into my office.

    Flynn Vasilios.

    Speaking of the devil, he shall appear.

    And he looked pretty nice too.

    Dressed in a dark blue Armani suit, Jimmy Choo shoes, and a Rolex watch, he looked handsome and rich at the same time.

    His hair was tousled, his lips were in a thin line, and he was ring angrily at me. I frowned in confusion at him. He has no right to re at me in my office.

    ¡°What the hell are you doing here?!¡± he barked, looking viciously at me.

    I was taken-aback by his sudden outburst, that I identally spilled my coffee on my desk.

    ¡°Fuck!¡± I cursed as I look at the mess I made.

    I opened the first drawer on my desk to grab some tissues.

    ¡°Flynn!¡± Ximena yelled, also infuriated by Flynn¡¯s sudden outburst.

    ¡°Don¡¯t talk to my employee like that!¡±

    ¡°She¡¯s your employee?¡± he asked bewildered, his eyes following the movements I made. I could feel his eyes burning holes in my skin. From close up he looked vaguely familiar, but I just can¡¯t remember where I saw him before except for that time at graduation. There I saw him from afar.

    ¡°Yes! And I don¡¯t tolerate you talking to my employee and friend like that!¡± Ximena stood up, tapping angrily with her heels on the white tiles, waiting for Flynn to apologize.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡± he apologized, crossing his arms tightly on his chest. His apology didn¡¯t sound sincere, but rather something than nothing.

    ¡°I thought you were someone else.¡±

    ¡°You saw her on graduation, Flynn.¡± Ximena reminded him with a heavy sigh.

    ¡°Really?¡± he asked surprised. ¡°Sorry, can¡¯t remember.¡±

    I rolled my eyes at him. Of Course he can¡¯t. He only remembers models and actresses.

    ¡°How¡¯s the baby doing?¡± Ximena asked curiously. ¡°Can I see a picture?¡±This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.

    Flynn¡¯s face became dreary when Ximena asked that question.

    He let out a bitterugh. ¡°Baby?¡± he simpered. ¡°There¡¯s no baby.¡±

    ¡°W-what do you mean there¡¯s no baby? D-did something happen?¡± Ximena stuttered, staring at her brother with wide eyes. Even I looked at him agape. What did he mean?

    ¡°Don¡¯t look at me like that!¡± he huffed at the sight of his sister facial expression. ¡°And you woman, what is your name again? Close your mouth.¡±

    I closed my mouth immediately and red at him. ¡°I¡¯m just curious.¡± I muttered resentful.

    ¡°Well, curiosity kills the cat, ever heard of that¡ª,¡±

    Ximena interrupted her brother by clearing her throat loudly. ¡°I want to know what happened to the baby, Flynn. Am I an aunt or not?¡± she asked, crossing her arms tightly over her chest, tilting one hip, and giving him a raised eyebrow.

    ¡°Of course,¡± he said the irritation clear in his voice. ¡°And no, you¡¯re not an aunt, because the baby was not mine to begin with!¡±

    ¡°What!¡± Ximena and I eximed at the same time, our eyes turning big that they almost fell out of our sockets.

    Flynn didn¡¯t hear us anymore, because right after he told us the truth he walked out of my office.

    ¡°Oh Shit!¡± Ximena cursed, as she also stormed out of my office, going after her brother.

    ¡°Flynn!¡± I heard her yell from outside.

 89

    After I graduated from college I was supposed to go back to Barcelona, but things turned out differently. Ximena took over her mother¡¯s business.

    YouNique Cosmetics.

    They were in desperate need of a copywriter and Ximena practically begged me to fill in that position temporarily. As time passed by, I enjoyed being a copywriter for YouNique cosmetics. It was also a well-paid job with a lot of benefits.

    So after my time to work there passed by, Ximena gave me two options. Working for YouNique cosmetics permanently or signing the resignation letter and go back to Barcelona.

    I chose for the first one, because I wanted to give Mn and my aunt a good life and I don¡¯t know if I would be able to do that when I was in Barcelona. It was not guaranteed that I would have a job like this there.

    Now, every month I sent half of my sry to Barcelona so my aunt can take care of herself and Mn.

    ¡­¡­.

    ¡°I can¡¯t believe you met the Flynn Vasilios!¡±

    My best friend Reina couldn¡¯t believe her ears when I told her about the Flynn incident at my work. ¡°You¡¯re so lucky!¡± she squealed, throwing a pillow at my face.

    ¡°Hey!¡± I eximed, throwing the pillow back at her. ¡°What do you mean by lucky? He¡¯s nothing but a jerk.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t talk about him like that!¡± she yelled out, quite offended when I called Flynn a jerk. ¡°He¡¯s the hottest man on earth!¡± She fanned herself with her hands and let out a deep dreamy sigh.

    I shook my head in despair. This girl is literally up in the ass of Flynn Vasilios, but then again who wouldn¡¯t? He was pretty damn handsome. I would give him that.

    I met Reina Indigo four years ago, when I first started college. She¡¯s a twenty five year old Brazilian, who studied the same course as I did. Currently she¡¯s working in Sephora. We shared the same dorm for two years andter on we shared the same apartment. She¡¯s the second person in America who knows about my life in Barcelona.

    The first one is Ximena.

    Reina is the definition of a Brazilian beauty. Big booty, slim waist, gigantic breasts, and long, ck shiny hair. If there¡¯s anything you can associate Reina with its glitter, diamonds, and all the sparkly stuff. Reina is quite picky about her clothes like how she is about her men. Every single clothe, shoe, or jewelry she had, needed to have something sparkly or glittery on it, otherwise she would refuse to wear it.

    ¡°We all need a little sparkle in this shady world,¡± she said, as she will flip her hair and roll her eyes. I always told her the name Reina suite her well. Reina means queen and queens like everything that sparkles right?

    ¡°I¡¯m so tired of Luca. He keeps calling me, but he broke my heart and I don¡¯t want to be heartbroken again by the same man. You know what I mean Jill?¡± Reina grabbed a pizza on the kitchen counter and took a big bite of it.

    Luca Rossi, son of Dante and Sophia Rossi one of the richest family in Italy, attended the same college as Reina and I, but only he studied Chemical engineering. The school we attended was a private Ivy League research university in Upper Manhattan. It was one of the world¡¯s most prestigious universities, the eptance rate was only six percent and the tuition fees were more than fifty thousand dors.

    Reina and I busted our asses off to get a fully funded schrship and we did. People like Luca and Ximena, they didn¡¯t had any trouble applying to the University. They were loaded with money; the only thing they had to do was graduate from high school with flying colors¡¯.

    Reina and Luca had a rtionship during junior year of college that didn¡¯tst longer than six months. During one of the frat parties, Reina caught Luca making out with some bimbo named Tiara or Tiana.

    ¡°I think you should forgive him.¡± I said wisely.

    It was a long time ago. Two years and a half. Luca may be a changed man by now.

    ¡°No¡­,¡± she took a big bite of her pizza and looked at me with wide eyes. ¡°You are supposed to be that friend who doesn¡¯t like the idea of her best friend going back to her ex.¡±

    Iughed heartily. ¡°Fine then,¡± I cleared my throat and said in a serious voice, ¡°Don¡¯t you dare go back to Luca, he is a man whore and you deserve a gentleman for god sake! I¡¯m so happy you broke up with him, because I never liked that guy anyway.¡±

    Sheughed loudly as she opened a can of soda. ¡°That was better.¡±

    ¡°Thank you, thank you.¡± I saidughing, making a small bow for her.

    ¡­¡­.

    The atmosphere at work changed dramatically after the whole Flynn incident. Ximena was in a dull mood when she came to office. She even snapped at her personal assistant ire, who was nothing but a sweetheart. Well, sometimes she could be really clumsy. Ximena hadn¡¯t said anything to me since morning; she didn¡¯t evene by my office to say good morning like how she did every other day.

    Everyone at the office knew something had happened at home. Ximena was a jolly, outgoing, and talkative girl; everyone was surprised when she came into the office dressed like The Great Depression. She wore a long conservative dress that was two sizes too big for her and she tied her hair in a knot on top of her head. She was still pretty though, but knowing Ximena, she would never wear something like that at home let alone to work.

    When lunchtime came I decided to grab some coffee and macarons for me and Ximena. ire, her personal assistant, told me that Ximena refuse to have breakfast and refuse toe out of her office.

    ¡°She¡¯s drowning herself in work Miss Malik.¡± ire cried out when I called her to my office asking her about Ximena.

    When I knocked on her office door, I heard a loud groan followed with an even louder ¡°Get out.¡±

    That was my cue toe in.

    Ximena¡¯s office was twice the size of mine. She was the CEO after all. She had a huge cherry desk in the middle of her office that fitted perfectly with the Dutch white color on her walls and her tiles. There was also a huge ss window behind her that had the perfect view of New York City. Furthermore, she had hung up some really cool paintings that must have cost a fortune and she had ced a cactus in one of the corners. Her room was pretty empty, but then again Ximena was someone who liked to have space.

    ¡°Crowded ces make me anxious.¡± she once told me when we were in college and she visited my room. My room was a mess.

    ¡°Something you want to get off your chest?¡± I asked, handing her the coffee and macarons.

    She let out a heavy sigh. ¡°Flynn will move back to New York City.¡±

    ¡­¡­.

    I didn¡¯t see anything wrong with Flynn moving back to New York City, but for Ximena everything was wrong.

    ¡°It¡¯s a disaster!¡± she cried out loud, covering her face with her hands.

    ¡°He will take the spotlight again, oh goodness! And all his scandals!¡± she scorned when she mentioned scandals.

    ¡°Ximmy, it will not be that bad.¡± I said trying to soothe her.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°Not be that bad?!¡± she yelled out in disgust. ¡°Oh god, you don¡¯t know about all his nightly adventures. It¡¯s so disgusting to have caught my brother with Lana Rhoades doing some fifty shades shit!¡±

    My eyes widened in shock. Lana Rhoades, the most popr pornstar. I didn¡¯t know Flynn was that desperate to satisfy his needs? I knew that he only banged actresses or models, but a pornstar?

    ¡°A pornstar?¡± I choke out, looking star struck at Ximena.

    ¡°Yes! Oh goodness I know what you¡¯re thinking. If that will ever leak out, my sales will suffer. Sometimes I don¡¯t even know why I¡¯m rted to him. I can¡¯t have him here right now, not when I willunch my eyeshadow palette in two months.¡± she cried, banging her head on her desk.

    ¡°I don¡¯t think it will be that bad, you¡¯re just overreacting Ximmy.¡± I sighed, even though I don¡¯t like Flynn I don¡¯t think that he will do anything that will ruin Ximena¡¯s image.

    ¡°Oh honey, you don¡¯t know anything about that boy. I love my brother, but hell he¡¯s so irresponsible sometimes!¡±

    ¡­¡­¡­.

    Flynn Vasilios P. O. V

    ¡°And that¡¯s why I decided to move back to New York!¡± I announced at the dinner table.

    My mom had made steak, which was a little bit overcooked, and mac and cheese, that didn¡¯t taste like mac and cheese at all. We didn¡¯tin, because this was her first attempt of cooking in probably twenty years. Usually we had a cook, but today she called in sick.

    My parents were devastated when I told them about Bree Paloma, that little bitch. For nine months she lied to me that the baby she carried was mine. I didn¡¯t believe her in the beginning, because we didn¡¯t do any rough stuff and I was using a condom.

    Somehow Bree convinced me that the condom broke and that I was the only one she had sex with that time. I was forced to live in Greece with her for nine months, since I¡¯m the CEO from a multi-billionpany and the baby she was carrying would be the heir of mypany. It would not be a good image if I would be in New York and my pregnant girlfriend in Greece.

    There are no words to describe how furious I was when I did a paternity test to see if the baby was mine. Turns out it wasn¡¯t! That little bitch had sex with four other men that time and she didn¡¯t really know to which one the baby belong. I was the only billionaire among those four, that¡¯s why she chose me as the father.

    ¡°Why? Why can¡¯t you stay in Greece?¡± Ximena asked appalled. I looked at her; she looked pale after I announced the news of me moving back. I thought she would be happy. I haven¡¯t been in the states for so long and she was alwaysining that I was never around.

    ¡°Well¨C,¡± I said. ¡°The headquarters of mypany are here and I don¡¯t want to see Bree anymore for the rest of my life.¡±

    ¡°No!¡± she shouted panicky and then shut up abruptly when everyone was staring at her.

    ¡°Ximena dear, is something wrong? My mom asked as she put her fork down to walk over to Ximena. ¡°I¡¯m fine, I¡¯m fine!¡± she yelled and stood up and mumbled an excuse me before she disappeared upstairs to her room.

    I just shrugged my shoulders. Must be her time of the month again. That exins why she¡¯s so grumpy and sensitive. Women.

    The next morning I was having breakfast when I saw Ximena rushing down the stairs to go to work. She wore an awful ck conservative dress that made her look like a nun. It was ugly.

    ¡°Is that the new style?¡± I noticed when she came to the kitchen to grab a banana. ¡°It¡¯s ugly bytheway.¡±

    She just red at me and snarled, ¡°Oh please, shut up! What do you know about style, when the only styles you care about are thongs and corsets?¡±

    I was taken- aback by her sudden outburst. Why is she mad at me? I haven¡¯t done anything. And thongs and corsets? I prefer my girls naked. Easy ess.

    When it was lunch time for Ximena, I decided to pay her a visit and apologize for whatever I did to her. I have no clue what I did or say wrong, but it is better I apologize. Usually I don¡¯t apologize to girls, but she¡¯s my sister and I might need her help somewhere in the near future.

    I parked my Bugatti Veyron next to Ximena¡¯s white Bentley and walked inside the building. In my right hand I had the keys of my car around my index finger and in my left hand I carried a bag with ten pieces of omakase from Ximena¡¯s favorite sushi ce in New York, Sushi yasuda.

    ¡°Good morning Mr. Vasilios.¡± ire chirped as I walked passed her, ignoring her whole presence. I didn¡¯t exactly like ire, because of thest time when she basically threw herself at me. Aside from that, she looks scary. Who the hell wears red bright lipstick with blue eyeshadow to work? I¡¯m surprised that Ximena didn¡¯t fire her yet, but then again my sister is way too nice.

    I walked into Ximena¡¯s office without knocking and I was shocked to see her there again. They both looked up at me, Ximena¡¯s eyes all red and swollen and she was ring angrily at me.

    I knew who she was. I knew her face seem familiar. Since thest time I saw her during Ximena¡¯s graduation I couldn¡¯t get my mind off her. I knew it was her.

    ¡°What are you doing here?¡± I heard the angry voice of Ximena that woke me up from my reverie.

    I smiled sheepishly at her. ¡°I¡¯m sorry for whatever reason you¡¯re mad at me, but I brought you sushi.¡± I walked over to her desk and handed her the sushi. ¡°Now, will you tell me why you¡¯re mad at me?¡± I then looked at her friend. The one I know so well.

    ¡°Don¡¯t you have work to do?¡± I asked quirking an eyebrow. She rolled her eyes at me and let out a disapproving sound before walking away.

    So unprofessional.

    ¡­¡­.

 90

    Jill Malik P. O. V

    Ximena and Flynn are total opposites of each other. While Ximena is caring and loving, Flynn is arrogant and rude. ¡°If you need anything, I¡¯ll be in my office.¡± I said to her as I shot a re at Flynn before walking out of Ximena¡¯s office. I still had tons of work to do. Ximena has a new eyeshadow palette that will beunched in two months and it still needed a name. Until now I can¡¯te up with a suitable name. The eyeshadow palette she willunch will have mostly dark colors and it¡¯s supposed to radiate confidence.

    While I was busy thinking and writing down possible name ideas, someone slowly opened my door. I looked up and saw it was Ximena. She looked much better now than she did in the morning. I guess the ¡®talk¡¯ with her brother went well.

    ¡°Hey.¡± she said as she walked towards my desk. ¡°Can I ask you for a favor?¡±

    I rose up an eyebrow. ¡°Sure.¡± I said, putting my pencil down on my wooden desk.

    ¡°So, tonight it¡¯s Kat Von D¡¯s liquid lipstickunch and she invited me, sadly I can¡¯t make it, because ke ask me to go on a date with him, so would you please be kind enough to fill in my ce?¡± she asked sweetly looking at me with puppy dog eyes.

    I bit my under lip. I don¡¯t like to attendunches hosted by Kat Von D, because it¡¯s all so fancy and filled with celebrities and billionaires. It¡¯s not my style at all.

    ¡°I-I don¡¯t know, can¡¯t you send ire?¡±

    Ximena¡¯s eyes widened when I mentioned ire¡¯s name.

    ¡°Oh goodness, no, have you seen her? Her makeup is terrifying and horrible. No honey, no, please Jill, for once?¡± she pleaded.

    I let out a heavy sigh. It¡¯s not like I have a choice. ¡°Just because you¡¯re such a nice boss to me, where and when?¡±

    Ximena¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°Thank you, thank you so much! You¡¯re a doll.¡± she squealed happily. ¡°And bytheway I¡¯m not only your boss. I¡¯m your best friend.¡±

    ¡°Here.¡± she handed me a gold brown man envelope. ¡°This is the invitation card, you should bring this with you, the address and time is also written in it.¡±

    I took the envelope and opened it. GoldBar, 389 Broome St, New York, NY 10013. 8:00 PM.

    ¡°Wow herunch will be held in a nightclub?¡± I asked surprised. The envelope felt so soft and fancy.

    Ximena nodded her head. ¡°Yes, but a really fancy one. I bet Kendall Jenner and Gigi Hadid will be there.¡±

    ¡°Dammit, now I have to look for a dress for tonight.¡± I mumbled putting the invitation card back in the envelope.

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I will send my personal stylist to your apartment at six, he will bring some clothes and shoes for you.¡± Ximena said excitedly. ¡°Thank you once again Jill.¡± Ximena walked around my desk and hugged me tightly. ¡°ke and I will love you forever, oh and did I tell you he will bring me to Paris tonight?¡±

    I chuckled and shook my head. Despite how much I love Ximena, she gets way too spoiled by ke. Who goes on a date all the way to Paris? ke and Ximena of course.

    ¡­¡­.

    I let out a frustrated groan. I had to leave in an hour to Kat Von D¡¯sunch party and I was still sitting in my peignoir in front of my Vanity table. Reina on the other hand was in heaven.

    ¡°Ah, sparkles, glitter¡­ This is heaven!¡± Reina sighed dreamily as she hugged a red sparkly dress.

    Chase, Ximena¡¯s stylist, gave her a weird look. He came an hour ago with a bunch of clothes, shoes, and makeup. He asked me what I wanted to wear. I scanned the dresses and nothing was close to what I had in mind. They were all either too revealing, too sparkly or too short.

    ¡°Have you already made your choice?¡± Chase asked as he looked wearily around.

    ¡°Do you have any suggestions?¡± I asked him for the nth time.

    He sighed heavily. ¡°The ck one perhaps?¡± he suggested. He suggested the ck one three times already, but I already said no. The ck one is a huge no.

    ¡°Goodness no, that dress looks hideous. It has so many feathers; people will think I¡¯m a peacock.¡±

    ¡°The blue one is also¡ª,¡±

    ¡°I made up my mind, I will wear Elie Saab.¡±

    ¡°That was my first suggestion!¡± Chase eximed, as he picked a ck sparkly dress from my bed.

    ¡°Well Chase, It¡¯s not that I have any other choice. The other dresses are just not my style.¡± I slipped on the dress and it fitted me like a glove. It was a sparkly ckce mermaid dress with a slit and a deep cleavage in the front. It hugged my hips firmly that I¡¯m so afraid to sit down in case it would tear apart.

    ¡°Chase, it¡¯s really tight around my hips.¡± Iined.

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry; It will not tear apart if that¡¯s what you¡¯re afraid of.¡±

    ¡°It better not.¡±

    ¡°These dresses are supposed to be that tight. Now go sit down, I still need to do your hair and makeup.¡± He pulled my hair out of my ponytail and started to brush it out.

    ¡­¡­.

    ¡°Stunning. Beautiful. Magnificent!¡± Chase hushed as he spun me around three times.

    ¡°Holy mama!¡± Reina squealed. ¡°You¡¯re going to take the spotlight from Kat Von D herself.¡±

    Iughed. ¡°I don¡¯t think so, but thanks for thepliments.¡± I walked to the life size mirror in the corner of my room and couldn¡¯t help but let out a gasp when I saw my reflection. My hair was half up and half down. Chase curled the bottom parts of my hair that hung flowy on my shoulders. My makeup was done stunning. He managed to make my short eyshes twice longer than it actually is.

    ¡°Now it¡¯s time for these shiny babies.¡± I turned around to see what Chase meant with ¡®shiny babies.¡¯

    ¡°Hell no!¡± I called out looking at a pair of sparkly five inch heels.

    ¡°You don¡¯t have a choice.¡± Reina said in a matter of fact tone. ¡°If you don¡¯t wear it, you will trip on your dress.¡±

    I rather trip on my dress barefooted than in a pair of five inch heels. ¡°No, guys please. Let me wear ts, no one will see it anyways.¡±

    ¡°No, no, no, I will not let you wear that beautiful gown of Elie Saab with ts honey. I don¡¯t want to degrade my friend like that.¡± Chase shook his head.

    I red at him.

    ¡°Time is not waiting for you Jill.¡± he said looking at his Rolex and tapping impatiently with his shoes on my carpet.

    ¡°Give me those goddamn shoes.¡±

    Chase smirked and threw the shoes at me. He and Reina then went out of my room. I slip the shoes on, grabbed my purse, and walked to the living room were Chase and Reina were now waiting for me.

    ¡°You look like a model best friend!¡± Reina squealed excitedly when I entered the living room. ¡°Go get yourself a man boo!¡±

    ¡°Reina I¡¯m going to aunch party not a club.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t care; go get yourself a sugar daddy! I heard Kat Von D has a lot of billionaire friends. Maybe you can hook up with one of them. That would be so hot.¡±

    ¡°Well that¡¯s true, but honey I¡¯m just going for theunch of her lipsticks not for her friends.¡±

    ¡°Ladies you can chitchatter, Jill you¡¯re already five minuteste to the party!¡± Chase said, interrupting the conversation me and Reina had.

    ¡°It¡¯s called fashionablyte, Chase!¡± Reina said sassily.

    ¡°Well,¡± Chase replied in the same sassy tone, ¡°I don¡¯t want Jill to be fashionablyte after I¡¯ve spend two hours on her look. So Jill, are you ready?¡±

    I rolled my eyes yfully at him. ¡°Yes Chase, bye Reina.¡± I said before closing the door behind me.

    When we were already in the elevator I remembered that I forgot my car keys on my nightstand. ¡°Shit!¡± I looked at Chase. ¡°I forgot my car keys.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Ximena send her personal driver to pick you up and drop you off.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s really considerate of her.¡±

    ¡°Yes, she figured out it wouldn¡¯t be safe if you would drive ale at night.¡±

    I love Ximena. She remembered that I didn¡¯t like to drivete at night.

    ¡°Shall we?¡± Chase extended his hand to me and I took it. We walked together through the lobby, here and there women were looking viciously at me and men were staring at me agape.

    ¡°You¡¯re not even at the party yet and you made the men here insane and the women angry.¡± Chase whispered chuckling in my ear.

    ¡°Oh shut up Chase, good thing you¡¯re gay huh?¡±

    Heughed softly. ¡°Good thing I¡¯m gay baby.¡±

    When we came outside a white range rover was waiting for us.

    ¡°Hello Baxter, you sweet delicate thing.¡± Chase greeted the driver who was holding the door open for me.

    ¡°Hey Chase, nice to see you man!¡± Baxter said and his eyes shifted to me. ¡°Good evening Miss Malik.¡±

    ¡°Good evening Baxter.¡± I replied smiling.

    I stepped in the car and saw that Chase is noting with me.

    ¡°Chase aren¡¯t youing?¡± I asked before Baxter closed the door.

    ¡°Honey no, I have a dinner date with my boyfriend, oh and bytheway if someone ask who your stylist was for tonight, tell them it¡¯s Chase Capris. Also give them my card when they ask about me.¡±

    I nodded my head and give him a thumb up before Baxter closed the door.

    Everyone is going on dates and here I am going to a lipstickunch party.

    ¡­¡­¡­.

    ¡°Are you sure this is it?¡± I asked looking at Baxter with wide eyes.

    ¡°Yes Miss Malik, this is the GoldBar.¡±

    I looked back outside. It was crowded with paparazzi¡¯s. How am I going to get through that without tripping or being pushed? Suddenly I didn¡¯t feel like going in anymore.

    ¡°I will escort you to the main entrance, don¡¯t worry.¡± Baxter said when he saw the terrified look on my face.

    I let out a breath of relief. Good, because I don¡¯t think I would be able to walk in five inch heels through that crowd of paparazzi¡¯s. I would trip and embarrass myself in front of them.

    Baxter opened the door for me and that¡¯s when I heard paparazzi shouting: ¡°Is that Zoe yton?! Zoe!¡±

    Baxter held me firmly on my waist as we work a way through the crowd. I held my head down due the shes of the cameras. It was so annoying, now I realize what celebrities have to go through. ¡°It¡¯s not Zoe guys!¡± I heard someone yell. ¡°If it¡¯s not Zoe, who is she?¡±

    ¡°Wow she¡¯s pretty!¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s Ximena Vasilios personal driver.¡±

    ¡°Do you have your invitation card Miss?¡± Baxter asked as we were approaching the entrance. I nodded; I was holding it in my hand.

    Suddenly Baxter let go of me. ¡°I can¡¯t go further than here, have a great night Miss Malik, and give me a call when you¡¯re ready to go home.¡±N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.

    I nodded my head; Baxter had put in his number in my cell phone on our way here. I walked to the two security guards who were standing in front of the entrance. I showed them my invitation card; they nodded their heads and opened the door for me to enter.

    The entire room was filled with women in designer dresses and men in suits. Music was ying softly as I tried to make a way through the crowd searching for Kat Von D. I have to admit, this woman has a really great party nner. The liquid lipsticks Kat Von D willunch today are mostly yellowish and gold-ish. This whole venue just adds more power to the liquid lipsticks.

    The GoldBar was entirely gold, except for the couches on the side that were ck. There were huge golden chandeliers on the ceiling providing just enough light to see everyone.

    ¡°So who are you, stealing the spotlight from my own party.¡± a familiar voice said behind me. I turned around seeing Kat von d in an elegant ck dress from her own clothing line.

    ¡°Good evening Kat, I¡¯m Jill Malik, I work for Ximena Vasilios, sadly she can¡¯t be here tonight.¡±

    Kat raised her eyebrows. ¡°I heard, she went to Paris with her boyfriend, are you her personal assistant?¡±

    I shook my head. ¡°No, I¡¯m her copywriter.¡±

    ¡°Ah,¡± Kat said, ¡°So you¡¯re the little mastermind behind all the names of all her products.¡±

    Iughed. ¡°Well yes, I am.¡±

    ¡°Interesting, are you somehow rted to Zayn Malik?¡±

    I shook my head again. I got this question so many times. ¡°No, not at all.¡±

    ¡°Oh Interesting, anyways you look stunning in Elie Saabtest masterpiece, I¡¯m inpletely awe.¡±

    ¡°Thank you Kat, so are you.¡± I replied smiling. ¡°Is your dress already in stores?¡±

    ¡°No, It will be in the fashion show next week though, are you nning on buying it?¡±

    I chuckled. ¡°It¡¯s beautiful, but I don¡¯t think it¡¯s my kind of style.¡±

    ¡°Mmh.¡± Kat murmured, ¡°That¡¯s true. Well I should wee other guests. There¡¯s a bar and there¡¯s some dessert, speech and toast will start in fifteen minutes.¡± She gave me a small smile and walked away to greet other guests.

 91

    Flynn Vasilios P. O. V

    ¡°What the fuck man?!¡± Rodrigo Macallister yelled causing everyone that passed the coffee shop to look at us.

    ¡°Can you keep your big mouth shut?¡± I hissed ring at him annoyed.

    ¡°That bitch is one hell of a snake!¡± he whispered furiously.

    Rodrigo Macallister, my best friend since freshman year of college moved back to New York City two days ago. Before, he was working in his father¡¯spany in Dubai, but since the expansion of thepany he had to move to New York to be in charge of the business here.

    ¡°I swear, If I see that little snake I will¡ª¡±

    ¡°No you don¡¯t!¡± I said firmly. ¡°That¡¯s abuse and that¡¯s bad for our image.¡±

    ¡°Who said I would do it? I will let another woman do it of course.¡±

    I sighed. I shouldn¡¯t have told him about Bree Paloma. ¡°You will not do anything Rodrigo, be a good boy for once and listen to me. We¡¯re not in high school anymore.¡±

    He scoffed. ¡°I thought you learned your lesson after that one time your sister caught you with that pornstar.¡±

    I scrunched my nose at the memory of that. ¡°She¡¯s still not over it yet; she got really mad when I told her I will move back to New York, she thinks my yboy reputation will ruin her image.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t me her, It was probably traumatizing for her to see Lana with a gag in her mouth.¡±

    I snickered by the thought of that. ¡°It was hot man and I couldn¡¯t resist her body. She reminded me so much of her.¡±

    ¡°But she was not her.¡± Rodrigo concluded sipping his coffee. ¡°She was not a pornstar to begin with.¡±

    It was weird to see two billionaires sitting on the patio of a coffee shop drinking coffee at five in the afternoon.

    ¡°Yeah.¡± I said disappointed. ¡°It was not her. And she was definitely not a pornstar. Her voice literally belonged to an angel.¡±

    ¡°Why don¡¯t you just grow some balls and tell her?¡±

    ¡°She doesn¡¯t fucking remember me!¡± I yelled out frustrated.

    ¡°Who doesn¡¯t remember you darling, because I¡¯m sure I do.¡± I heard a velvety voice say behind me. I turned around only to see a stunning blonde in a skin tight dress, ck leather coat, and thigh high boots.

    ¡°Zoe.¡± I said surprised. ¡°I thought you were in Brazil.¡±

    Sheughed softly and pulls out a chair in between me and Rodrigo. ¡°Well I was, but I have to go to a party tonight.¡±

    ¡°And I guess you need a date.¡±

    She looked at me surprised. ¡°How did you guess?¡±

    I shrugged. She always does that. Shees to me, brings me to one of her parties as her date and pays me back with a one night stand.

    ¡°Well yeah, I do need you as my date tonight.¡± she said, and added in a real seductively voice, ¡°But don¡¯t worry, I have something really exciting nned for after the party.¡± She gave me a seductive smile as she bends over slightly showing me her cleavage. There was not much to show, but of course I will not tell her that otherwise I could kiss the whole payback goodbye, just when I needed it so bad.

    ¡°Mmh, may I ask what or is that a surprise?¡± I asked licking my lips. I knew that was her weakness. She groaned and I couldn¡¯t help but chuckle softly. This girl has zero patience. If I would give her the green light to undress me here, she would do it in a split second.

    ¡°I can give you a sneak peak, it¡ª,¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t want to hear what kind of fifty shade thing you have nned for him tonight Zoe.¡± Rodrigo growled annoyed.

    Iughed as I saw the face that Rodrigo made. Zoe red at him.N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.

    ¡°Way to ruin the mood, Macallister.¡± she sneered.

    ¡°What mood? We¡¯re in a goddamn coffee shop.¡±

    She red at him again and then shifted her attention back to me.

    ¡°Pick me up at the Penins at eight.¡± She stood up, gave me a peck on my cheek, and left the coffee shop without paying Rodrigo a second nce.

    ¡°Are you that desperate to getid?¡± Rodrigo asked when Zoe was out of sight.

    I shrugged. I didn¡¯t getid in a month so I guess I am.

    ¡°She gives good head.¡± I said, sipping on my coffee.

    Rodrigoughed. ¡°How many times have you banged her in all positions only to forget her?¡±

    ¡°Stop bringing her up, she¡¯s right here in New York, so close to me, and I still don¡¯t know how to¡­ how to¡ª,¡±

    ¡°Tell her that you gave her the most mind blowing sex ever that she cked out and that¡¯s why she can¡¯t remember you?¡±

    Rodrigo looked at me with a small smirk ying on his lips, knowing damn well he was right.

    ¡­¡­¡­.

    Jill Malik P. O. V

    I made my way towards the bar. I saw Kendall Jenner, Gigi Hadid, and Be Hadid sitting on one of the couches. There was a bottle of Don Julio on their table and three shot sses. Be looked at me for a split second and then whispered something to Gigi. All three of them looked stunning in their designer dresses. The red dress of Be looked amazing on her.

    I just shrugged my shoulders as I walked further. I didn¡¯t belong in their group. If this party was a high school party, they would belong in the category: Popr cheerleader.

    ¡°Hey.¡± someone said behind me. I turned around and saw a beautiful woman in a dark green gown covered in jewels.

    ¡°Sandra Queen.¡± I said breathlessly. She looked even more gorgeous in real life.

    It was strange that Sandra Queen, the most popr actress, was approaching me. Wasn¡¯t I the one that was supposed to approach her?

    ¡°You did a splendid job in yourtest movie. Congrattions for the Oscar you won.¡±

    She smiled warmly at me. ¡°Thank you, it was nothing really, I just did my job.¡± she said. ¡°Anyways, you look stunning; may I ask who you are?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m Jill Malik; I came here in the ce of Ximena Vasilios.¡±

    ¡°Oh yeah Ximena, lucky girl went to Paris.¡±

    I gave her a strange look. Did everyone here know that Ximena was in Paris?

    Sandra must have seen my facial expression, because she hurriedly said, ¡°I saw paparazzi pictures this afternoon when she was at the airport.¡±

    Ah, that makes sense.

    ¡°Are you somehow rted to Zayn Malik?¡±

    Here¡¯s that question again. I shook my head. ¡°No, not at all.¡±

    ¡°Oh, I just thought with the same surname and all, anyways I want to ask who your stylist was for tonight. I love the dress of Elie Saab on you, it¡¯s stunning.¡±

    ¡°Thank you, you look gorgeous yourself and my stylist for tonight was Chase.¡±

    Sandra frowned. ¡°Chase who? Mark-sen, Jacobs, Wright?¡±

    What did Chase said his surname was again? ¡°Oh, uhm it¡¯s Chase Capris.¡±

    ¡°Ah Chase Capris, he did a magnificent job on you.¡±

    ¡°Yeah.¡± I said smiling, ¡°But he¡¯s underrated.¡±

    ¡°Mmh, that¡¯s true¡­ I thought someone like James Brown or Jay Manuel was your stylist.¡±

    ¡°No, just Chase Capris.¡±

    ¡°Well, do you have his phone number? I¡¯m going to the Cannes Film festival next month and I would love if Chase would be my stylist.¡±

    ¡°Yes, I actually do.¡± I opened my clutch to give her one of Chase¡¯s business cards.

    ¡°Thank you very much.¡± Sandra said as she put the business card in her small purse.

    ¡°You¡¯re wee and oh Chase is also Ximena¡¯s personal stylist, so you might have to ask Ximena for permission.¡±

    Sheughed. ¡°Oh of course, I¡¯m pretty sure Ximena will let me borrow Chase for a couple of days and I think it will also be a big break for Chase toe with me to Cannes. He will not be so underrated anymore after that.¡±

    That¡¯s true. Sandra Queen will be the big break for Chase.

    ¡°Anyways nice to see you here Jill, I hope I will see you more often.¡±

    ¡°Nice meeting you too.¡± I smiled and continued my way to the bar. I jumped on one of the chairs and waited for the barkeeper toe to me.

    ¡°What can I get for you, prettydy?¡± he asked.

    ¡°Avender kiss please.¡± I said as I turned my attention back towards the crowd, everyone was ncing at me now and then. There were more peopleing and I could see Kat Von D in the far corner having a conversation with Timothy Hancher, one of my favorite actors.

    ¡°Can I have apornstar martini please?¡± A voice said, next to me. His voice was velvet-edged and strong, making me want to look at him. He was gorgeous, to say the least. He wore a cream bally suit with a white shirt and a Rolex. Despite the fact that he was obviously rich, he looked hot. He was slim, muscr, with an almost perfectly symmetrical face. His blonde hair was neatlybed as it fell in beautifulyers on the right side of his head.

    ¡°You know it should be the other way around.¡± he said, now looking up at me. He had beautiful blue-green eyes. Just like mine.

    ¡°W-what are you talking about?¡± I asked nervously.

    ¡°Staring, I¡¯m the one that should be staring at you not the other way around.¡±

    Dammit, hot stranger caught me staring at him.

    ¡°Ha, yeah u-uhm, I¡ª¡± I was tongue tied; I didn¡¯t know what to say.

    ¡°Rodrigo Macallister.¡± he said smiling as he reached his hands out to me for a handshake.

    ¡°Jill Malik.¡± I said shaking his hand. He suddenly let go of my hand and his eyes grew wide.

    ¡°Jill.¡± he whispered softly, looking at me in a daze. ¡°You look even more gorgeous, than how he described you.¡±

    This was creepy. What is he talking about? ¡°Excuse me, what are you talking about?¡± I asked confused.

    Rodrigo shook his head, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I was just having a u-uhm memory.¡±

    He smiled again at me. ¡°Right.¡± I said, taking a sip of my cocktail.

    ¡°So, who¡¯s Jill Malik?¡± he asked, a small smile ying on his lips.

    ¡°Well, if you really want to know, I¡¯m Ximena¡¯s copywriter.¡±

    ¡°Ah, Ximena, sister of my best friend.¡±

    Sister of his best friend? Is his best friend¡­ Flynn?

    ¡°Flynn?¡± I asked surprised. He nodded his head. ¡± Yup, Flynn Vasilios, do you know him?¡±

    ¡°Yeah, I met him thrice, he¡¯s a jerk.¡±

    Rodrigoughed. ¡°Tsk, I didn¡¯t see you as that type of girl.¡±

    ¡°What type?¡±

    ¡°The type of girl who judge a guy when they only met him once.¡±

    ¡°Thrice.¡± I corrected. ¡°The first time was at graduation, but I hadn¡¯t talk to him then and the second and third time was when he came to visit Ximena. Rude and arrogant.¡±

    Rodrigoughed. ¡°You¡¯re the first girl I have heard that talk about Flynn like that.¡±

    ¡°What do you mean?¡±

    ¡°Most girls just swoon over him, trying to get him in their bed.¡±

    ¡°Ew, does he go? I mean does he¡ª,¡± I don¡¯t know why I wanted to know this.

    ¡°Yup, he does it with them.¡± Rodrigo confirmed, sipping on his martini.

    ¡°Ew, how does it feel like to be in a different girl vagina¡ª I mean never mind.¡±

    Now Rodrigo wasughing loudly. ¡°Trust me; I want to know that too.¡±

    ¡°So you¡¯re not like him?¡±

    He shook his head. ¡°Total opposite.¡±

    I looked back at my drink, trying to think about what to say next. I¡¯m so bad in keeping a conversation. It felt like Rodrigo read my mind, because he asked a really strange question.

    ¡°Do you do rtionships?¡±

    ¡°No.¡± I answered curtly; I hope he will not ask why.

    ¡°Me neither.¡± he said to my surprise. Why is a hot specimen like him not doing rtionships?

    ¡°You can get any girl you want, you know right?¡±

    He chuckled, ¡°I can, but what if¡ªif she¡ª¡± Rodrigo was struggling to exin.

    ¡°You don¡¯t have to tell me, I understand. I bet yours is asplicated as mine.¡± I sighed. He smiled faintly at me.

    ¡°Trust me, yours is not even close asplicated as mine.¡± How can he know that?

    We stayed silent for a while, not knowing what to say.

    ¡°Holy shit, is that¡ª¡± Rodrigo¡¯s eyes grew wide when he looked behind me at the crowd.

    I turned around to see who Rodrigo was looking at.

    ¡°Flynn?¡± we both said in unison.

    ¡­¡­¡­.

    Flynn Vasilios P. O. V

    I groaned internally as I tapped on the steering wheel of my Bugatti Veyron. I was already twenty minutes outside of the Penins, waiting for Zoe toe. Twenty minutes ago she told me she would be here in a minute; I still haven¡¯t seen hering out yet.

    I know girls have this thing called ¡®fashionably¡¯te, but Zoe is just terriblyte by now. I sighed again and then rested my head on the leather seat of my car.

    Ten minutes¡­. Fifteen minutes¡­. eighteen minutes¡­.

    Suddenly the door of my car opened and a blonde dressed in a stunning wine red dress stepped in.

    ¡°Zoe.¡± I breathed heavily; her look was definitely worth an hour of waiting.

    She was gorgeous in her red dress, red heels, and red lipstick. Truly breathtaking.

    ¡°You know gentlemen alwayse to the lobby to pick up their dates.¡± she said, raising her eyebrows up at me.

    I scoffed. ¡°Fuck that, you know I¡¯m a beast.¡±

    Sheughed. ¡°Honey¡­¡± she purred, ¡°You¡¯re a beast in bed, not when we go out on dates.¡±

    I turned on my car and started to drive. ¡°Bed, dates, parties, same thing.¡±

    Zoe rolled her eyes at me. ¡°Anyways, the party is held at the GoldBar.¡±

    We drove to the GoldBar in silence. I never tell Zoe about my life, my challenges, or my problems, because I know that once the media will lose interest in her, she will use those stories to be relevant again. Even though she was my best friend in the past, now she is just a fuckbuddy and nothing more.

    When we arrived at the GoldBar I saw a bunch of paparazzi¡¯s. There was a huge sign in front that said: Kat Von D liquid lipstickunch party.

    ¡°We¡¯re going to Kat¡¯sunch party?¡± I asked bitterly.

    I should have seen thising, how can I forget that Kat and Zoe are best friends. I disliked Kat so much, that woman didn¡¯t like me as how she likes my sister. She doesn¡¯t approve that Zoe, her best friend, and I are just fuckbuddies and nothing else.

    ¡°Yes, we are and I know that you two are like fire and water, so please¡ª¡±

    ¡°You know and you still brought me here? Couldn¡¯t you get another date?!¡±

    ¡°Hey!¡± she snapped. ¡°Don¡¯t yell at me, I¡¯m sensitive.¡±

    I scoffed. ¡°Of course you are.¡±

    ¡°You still need to make up to me for what you did six years ago.¡±

    ¡°What did I do six years ago?¡± Who the hell remembered things that happened six bloody years ago?

    Sheughed evilly. ¡°Oh so you don¡¯t remember? That one night you ditched me at my own fashion show in Mn?¡±

    I frowned at her. This chick is crazy. ¡°I can¡¯t remember that.¡± I lied.

    Actually I can, I ditched her fashion show, because I saw her, the most beautiful girl that had ever walk this earth.

    ¡°Stop whining like a baby then and let¡¯s go.¡± She stepped out of the car and I followed her.

    I intertwined my fingers with hers and we walk towards the huge crowd of paparazzi¡¯s.

    ¡°Look it is Zoe yton and Flynn Vasilios.¡± ¡°Zoe, smile!¡± ¡°How was Brazil?¡± ¡°Mr. Vasilios, where¡¯s your baby?¡± ¡°What happened with Bree Paloma?¡±

    Questions and questions were fired at us. We walked as fast as we could to the entrance. The security guards recognized Zoe, so we could just walk in without showing our invitation card. When we were inside I let out a breath of relief.

    ¡°Why isn¡¯t everyone looking at me?¡± was the first thing Zoe said as she looked around. Everyone was busy talking, no one noticing her. It was strange indeed. Never in the history that I¡¯ve go out with Zoe, the whole room was calm and not paying attention to her. When Zoe enters a building, a party, or a bar, everyone is staring at her. Women that were envious of her beauty and men that were jealous of me.

    ¡°Zoe!¡± I heard Kat¡¯s voice.

    I cringed, that witch. Even her voice was so high pitched and ugly.

    ¡°Kat!¡± Zoe squealed in turn.

    ¡°You brought him.¡± Kat said contemptuous.

    ¡°Good evening to you too Kat.¡± I said with the fakest smile ever. She ignored me and turned her attention back to Zoe.

    ¡°Oh my god Zoe, you¡¯re gorgeous but I have to tell you this.¡± Kat whispered something in Zoe¡¯s ear and Zoe¡¯s eyes turned wide of shock.

    ¡°No, no, no! This is a dress I brought from Dubai, how the hell can she have this?¡±

    Kat shrugged. ¡°Maybe she has someone in Dubai?¡±

    ¡°Flynn, we need to go home now!¡± Zoe whined as she tugged on my suit.

    ¡°What?!¡± I asked open-eyed. ¡°I will not go home after I have waited one hour for you, let me drink my martini first.¡±

    ¡°You don¡¯t know!¡± Zoe cried out and stomped with her foot. ¡°Be has the same dress as me!¡± she pointed towards one of the couches. I followed her finger and my eyes felt on three girls. Kendall, Gigi and Be. She was right; Be wore the exact same dress she was wearing.

    ¡°It¡¯s not the end of the world, you look hotter in it.¡±

    ¡°Ugh!¡± she growled. ¡°You¡¯re a man, you don¡¯t understand. This is a disaster! Oh my god!¡± Zoe started hyperventting.

    ¡°Calm down Zoe! Let me make a toast on my new lip stick and then you can go home.¡± Kat whispered as she stroke Zoe¡¯s back gently.

    ¡°This is a nightmare! And why isn¡¯t anyone noticing me? Am I invisible? Oh my god!¡±

    Zoe was a drama queen and she was good in it too.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry to tell you this, but there¡¯s another girl who stole the spotlight, even from me.¡±

    And Kat was a terrible best friend, because instead of soothing Zoe, she made Zoe hyperventte more.

    ¡°W-w-what?!¡± Zoe stuttered. ¡°Who¡¯s that?¡±

    Kat looked over at the bar. ¡°The copywriter of Ximena Vasilios¡­ What was her name again? Janine or Jessica or something?¡±

    I looked at the bar and there sat the most beautiful woman, I¡¯ve ever saw. Zoe has nothing on her. The mysterious woman that clearly works for my sister was sitting and chatting with someone really familiar.

    The familiar person stared at me and it was¡­. Rodrigo?

    Then she turned around and our eyes met.

    It was her!

 92

    Jill Malik P. O. V

    Flynn wore a white silk shirt with a navy blue coat and tie. However, he got better the more I look at him. His long fingers ran through his champagne blonde hair which shifted back into ce once his hand had gone past. He had prominent cheekbones, a well-defined chin, nose, and his eyshes were so thick, that it should be illegal. His deep blue eyes and pale skin made him look devilishly handsome.

    ¡°Can I please have all of you gathered here in the middle with your drinks?¡± Kat voice boomed in the small golden room as people started to walk towards her.

    ¡°Are youing?¡± Rodrigo asked.

    I nodded. I stood up, straightened my dress, and grabbed my drink. I felt a hand on my shoulder and saw it was Rodrigo¡¯s. He shed me a dazzling smile as we walked to the middle of the room.

    ¡°Hey man!¡± I heard Flynn¡¯s strong voice.

    ¡°Whatsup?¡± Rodrigo gave Flynn a fist bump. ¡°I didn¡¯t know you would be here, I thought you hated her.¡±

    Flynn let out a heavy sigh. ¡°It¡¯s because of Zoe.¡±

    ¡°Ah Zoe, well, look who I¡¯ve met here. The gorgeous Jill Malik.¡± Rodrigo said, and smiled at me.

    Flynn looked at me intently, eyeing me from head to toe. ¡°Ah, do I know you?¡± he asked raising his eyebrows up at me.

    I rolled my eyes at him; of course he will not remember me. I¡¯m not his type after all. ¡°Ximena¡¯s copywriter sh friend.¡±This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°Ah.¡± he said, ¡°The feisty one huh?¡±

    I looked confused at him. ¡°Excuse you? I would not call myself feisty.¡±

    ¡°Feistiness confirmed, bytheway nice to meet you tonight, I need to go back to my date.¡±

    ¡°Flynn, what¡­ Oh it¡¯s you and¡ª¡±

    A beautiful woman in a pretty red gown was ring angrily at me. ¡°How could you take the spotlight from Kat¡¯s own party and¡­ And from me too?¡±

    I batted my eyshes at her and looked at Rodrigo and Flynn. Rodrigo just shrugged and continued to drink his Martini. Flynn on the other hand looked worried.

    ¡°Zoe, please don¡¯t make a scene.¡± he hissed as he nudged the woman.

    ¡°Oh I¡¯m not, it¡¯s just¡­. You, what¡¯s your name again? Jt? Jacy?¡±

    ¡°Jill¡± I corrected her.

    ¡°Whatever Jill, you look hideous. The dress is not even pretty on you.¡±

    I could hear the venom in her voice. I knew that what she just said was out of jealousy and I wondered why? I don¡¯t even know this woman!

    ¡°Honey, you¡¯re just jealous.¡± I said confidently and turned my attention back to Kat who was now standing on the table.

    ¡°May I have your attention please?¡± Kat tapped with her long acrylic nails on her ss. The room immediately went silent.

    ¡°Good evening Ladies and Gentlemen, I am delighted to be here with all of you on the asion of the officialunching ceremony of the KVD Liquid lipstick line. I would first like to thank my copywriter foring up with the name, my PR manager for the amazing promotions, my party nner for hosting such a magnificentunch party, and everyone who had contributed to make thisunch possible. Together with my team we have been working hard on these liquid lipsticks and we can¡¯t wait for our audience to see it. So¡ª¡± Kat held her ss in the air. ¡°With this being said I would like to toast on the officialunch of KVD liquid lipsticks.¡±

    Everyone raised their sses in the air.

    ¡°Oh and before I forget, before all thedies leave tonight,e and grab your personalized lipstick kit at me.¡±

    Kat got off the table and walk towards us. ¡°I see you guys have met.¡± she said smiling, motioning at me and Zoe.

    I looked at Zoe who was clinging on Flynn as if her life depends on it, looking furiously at me. That¡¯s when I noticed the style of her dress. It looked really familiar. Then I remembered, Be wore the same exact dress.

    ¡°This is a nightmare! First Be wore the same dress as mine and then this¡­ this thing is taking my spotlight!¡± Zoe sobbed dramatically.

    Next to me, Rodrigo sighed heavily. ¡°Can you stop being a drama queen?¡±

    Zoe shot him a deadly re. ¡°What do you know about humiliation Macallister?¡±

    ¡°That it can get worse.¡±

    ¡°Ugh, this is the worse it can get! Ughh¡­ Flynn let¡¯s go.¡± she tucked on Flynn¡¯s hand, dragging him away.

    ¡°I didn¡¯t have my martini yet.¡± he protested.

    ¡°There¡¯s plenty of Martini¡¯s at the Penins.¡± she huffed angrily.

    Rodrigo shook his head in despair. ¡°She¡¯s such a¡­ a¡­¡±

    ¡°Handful?¡± I ask, since he has trouble finding his words.

    ¡°Hell no, I was about to say bitch.¡±

    Iughed. ¡°That¡¯s really not how a gentleman speaks.¡±

    ¡°Well, she¡¯s not ady either.¡±

    ¡°Is she one of Flynn¡¯s uhmm¡­¡±

    ¡°Bedroom buddies?¡± Rodrigo asked, ¡°Yep, she¡¯s one of his regrs.¡±

    I can¡¯t believe that Flynn is so¡­ reckless.

    ¡°I know what you¡¯re thinking.¡± Rodrigo said, looking intently at me. ¡°He was not always like this; someone obviously made him like that.¡±

    ¡°Who?¡± I asked curious. Heughed softly. ¡°We all have secrets Jill, I bet you have too.¡±

    That was true. Secrets.

    Oh stop it!

    ¡°Don¡¯t think too much.¡± Rodrigo snapped me out of my thoughts. ¡°You will get wrinkles before you¡¯re fifty.¡±

    I shook my head andughed. ¡°You¡¯re really entertaining, Rodrigo.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m d I could entertain you.¡± he looked at his watch and a bunch of curse words left his mouth.

    ¡°Fuck!¡± he cursed and then looked up at me. ¡°I need to go, my sister is waiting for me.¡±

    ¡°Well, it was nice to meet you.¡± I said, smiling.

    He smiled back, ¡°It was a pleasure to meet you too.¡±

    He gave me a hug and left. After he had left I checked the time on my phone and decided it¡¯s time for me to leave too. I made a quick call to Baxter as I walked to the main entrance.

    ¡°Jill! Wait up!¡± I heard someone yell behind me. I put my phone back in my clutch and turned around. Kat was running towards me with a little box in her hand.

    ¡°Hey, are you leaving?¡± she asked, a little bit out of breath.

    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s gettingte.¡± I replied, eyeing the beautiful box she had in her hand.

    ¡°Well.¡± she said, ¡°This is for Ximena.¡± She handed me the beautiful golden box.

    ¡°Well, thank you, I will give it to her tomorrow.¡± I said.

    She smiled. ¡°Thanks for being here; I hope to see you again.¡±

    ¡°Likewise.¡± I gave her a hug and walked away.

    I walked outside and waited for Baxter toe pick me up. ¡°It will take a while.¡± he had said in the phone, ¡°There¡¯s so much traffic.¡±

    ¡°Dammit!¡± I cursed when there was still no sight of Baxter after ten minutes of waiting. I needed to go to the restroom so bad. I walked back inside and searched for the bathroom. When I found it, I heard heavy breathinging out of one of the stalls. I just ignored it and went into an empty stall. After I was done I washed my hands and fixed my hair.

    Then, the door of the stall where the heavy breathing wasing from opened. The first thing I saw in the mirror was a girl in ckcy underwear and red stilettos, makeup smudged all over her face, looking like the Joker.

    But she wasn¡¯t the one that caught my attention. It was the person who she was with. In his Calvin Klein underwear, white shirt on the floor, and a startled expression on his face that was covered in red lipstick stood the one and only Flynn Vasilios.

    My eyes widened in shock. Not because I saw him almost naked, but because the girl he was with didn¡¯t look anything like the one he brought earlier!

    Jill Malik P. O. V

    ¡°And then he brought me to the Eiffel tower and proposed!¡± Ximena squealed happily as she holds up her ring finger, showing me her engagement ring. A huge diamond rock, which probably must have cost a fortune.

    ¡°Congrattions!¡± I said happily. I was so genuinely happy for her since she and ke were high school sweethearts. ¡°When is the wedding?¡± I asked.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know yet, ke wants to have it in December.¡±

    ¡°Isn¡¯t that too early?¡± December is in a couple of months, I don¡¯t know if it will be enough to n a millionaire¡¯s wedding. ke Anderson was the son of the millionaire Damon and Catherine Anderson. When Damon and Catherine died a couple years ago in a car crash, ke inherited everything from his parents. He also was the only heir of his dad¡¯spany Anderson enterprises.

    ¡°Yeah, but ke told me he would make sure everything will be perfect and I don¡¯t need to worry. And by the way I want you to be my maid of honor.¡± she took a bite of her Taco and then looked at me. ¡°Why are you so quiet?¡±

    If only she knew why I was so quiet. Seeing Flynn in his underwear is not something that I can forget easily, especially when he has a six pack and a V-line. He was shocked when he saw me. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry that you have to witness this!¡± he apologized, his face turning red from embarrassment. His little girl on the other hand, wasn¡¯t even a slightly bit embarrassed. Instead she was grinding herself on Flynn while he was trying to apologize to me. I didn¡¯t reply to his apology instead I hurriedly walked outside. I mean, what should I have said? Yes, it¡¯s okay I forgive you? If only that was so easy, his hot body is still taking up most space in my brain.

    ¡°Hey! Earth to Jill!¡± Ximena snapped her fingers in my face.

    I shook my head and smiled sheepishly at her. ¡°Sorry, I was zoning out.¡±

    ¡°Did something happen at the party that you haven¡¯t told me about?¡± she asked lifting her eyebrows.

    I shook my head. ¡°Nope.¡± I lied and tried to conceal it with a fake smile. I can¡¯t possibly tell her that I saw her brother in his underwear with this girl making out in the restroom of GoldBar. She would freak out.

    ¡°Anyways what do you think of the liquid lipsticks?¡± I asked instead.

    ¡°They are nice, but I wish they we¡ª,¡± The moment Ximena started talking again, I zoned out.

    ¡­¡­.

    ¡°No way!¡± Reina shouted as she covered her mouth with her hands. Her face was beet red and her eyes were so wide, I was afraid they would fall off.

    ¡°You. saw. the. Flynn. Vasilios. naked?¡±

    When I came home from work Reina was already waiting for me on the living room couch with a bottle of wine in her hand. I knew from the moment I walked in that it would be story time night.

    ¡°I want you to tell me everything what happened at the party in details.¡± she said emphasizing the word details.

    I sighed and roll my eyes for the hundredth time. ¡°I didn¡¯t saw him naked.¡± I said once again. ¡°He wore his boxer¡¯s shorts or underwear, whatever you call them.¡±

    Reina didn¡¯t like it when I said that I saw Flynn in his underwear. ¡°It is boxers shorts for boys and underwear for girls.¡± she said in a matter-of-fact tone. I know that it didn¡¯t matter and that girls also wear boxer shorts ¨C especially when they are on their period- because it¡¯s morefortable. But Reina is being Reina and she can be really weird sometimes

    ¡°The fact is that you saw him almost naked.¡± Reina squeaked, ¡°Meu Deus was he big?¡±

    My eyes widened instantly at her question. ¡°Reina! How should I know, I wasn¡¯t the one that was with him in the stall.¡±

    ¡°I know.¡± she chuckled, taking a sip of her wine. ¡°What I mean is, it probably must have shown right. Through the thin fabric of his boxers? Like a huge bubble? Do you know¡ª?¡±

    ¡°Reina!¡± I interjected her with a horrified expression. I was trying to erase the whole bathroom incident from my brains, but she is not helping.

    ¡°No, no, you should tell me.¡±

    I took a deep breath before answering her question. ¡°Yes, he was huge, if that answers your question.¡±

    Her eyes widened once again at my answer. ¡°Meu Deus, can you imagine how great a night would be with him? If he would ask me for a one night stand, I wouldn¡¯t decline.¡±

    ¡°Ew, now you sound like a hoe.¡±

    Sheughed. ¡°Oh stop it; you¡¯re not a goody two shoe either.¡±

    Reina was right. I wasn¡¯t a goody two shoe either.

    ¡°Do you still think about him?¡± she asked curiously. I nodded my head, sadness making its way to my face.

    ¡°It was just a one night stand, but it felt so good and so right. It¡¯s been six years and I still. I still can feel his touch. Is that weird?¡± I asked sadly, staring at my hands. My heart felt once again empty. Every time I think about it I have this weird feeling in the pit of my stomach.

    Reina shook her head and patted me softly on my shoulder. ¡°It¡¯s not weird Jill; I guess you fell in love with him during that one night stand. It¡¯s a shame you can¡¯t remember who he is.¡±

    ¡°In love?¡± I asked astonished. ¡°Can it be? Is it possible to fall in love during a one night stand?¡±

    I let out a heavy frustrated sigh.

    ¡°I was drunk and I cked out and when I woke up he wasn¡¯t there anymore. Also the ne that had my parent¡¯s picture in it was gone. I bet it got stuck on his shirt or something. I wish I knew who he was, because as much as I can remember about that one night stand is that we didn¡¯t just fucked, we made love.¡±

    ¡°If only you weren¡¯t so drunk or didn¡¯t ck out, maybe we could still find him. But based on what we know now it¡¯s like looking for a needle in a haystack.¡±

    I sighed heavily, what she said was true. If only.

    ¡­¡­.

    This was heaven of bikinis. Pink bikinis, purple bikinis, off the shoulder bikinis, name it and you can find it at Victoria¡¯s Secret. I was wandering through the aisles of bikinis, trying to choose one.

    Last night Ximena called me and said that she would pick me up on Saturday to go to her brother¡¯s yacht. ¡°It will be so much fun and bring a bikini.¡± she had said before ending the call.

    That¡¯s why I¡¯m currently wandering like a lost puppy in here. One of the workers came to ask me for the fifth time if I needed help. I didn¡¯t need help. I know my size, I know my color, I know what I want, it¡¯s just that I like to wander around andpare the one bikini to the other. See which one is less revealing or less expensive.

    Suddenly my eyes fell on a ck bikini. It was in, simple, and ck.

    I love it.

    I grabbed it from the rack and walked to the cashier. ¡°Is this the only item miss?¡± she asked, looking at me from under her thick eyshes. It was definitely fake; you could see the glue when she looked down even though she tried to hide it with a thick coat of eyeliner. ¡°That would be $40.¡±

    She put the bikini in a bag and handed it to me. Damn, 40 bucks for a in ck bikini.

    ¡°Thank you so much for shopping here, have a great day¡­. Next!¡± she yelled at the customer behind me.

    I turned around and that¡¯s when my eyes and mouth turned wide open in an expression of stunned surprise. Behind me stood no other then Flynn Vasilios with a stick thin red haired girl who wasn¡¯t Zoe or bathroom girl.

    ¡°Jill¡­¡± He said surprised, shifting ufortably on his feet. Wow, he did remember my name and I wasn¡¯t even one of his regrs. ¡°Who is that babe?¡± the stick thin girl asked. For a small body, she does have a really high pitched voice. She didn¡¯t look young, the stic surgery made her look young. Or maybe she was young, but the stic surgery made her look old. I don¡¯t know which one it is, but it should be either one.

    ¡°This¡­ this¡­ uhm.¡± Flynn bit his lips and had trouble to exin. Why did he had trouble to exin who I was? I am literally a no one to him.

    ¡°This is my uhm¡­ my girlfriend.¡± he suddenly blurted out.

    ¡°What?!¡± me and the girl both yelled out in unison.

 93

    Jill Malik P. O. V

    Anger boiled deep in my system, as hot asva¡­

    ¡°What the hell was that?!¡± I yelled out at Flynn once he dragged me out of Victoria¡¯s secret, away from the seething redhead. I know redheads were hot tempered, but that girl was on a whole other level of being hot tempered.

    We were in the middle of the sidewalk in busy New York City and people who passed us gave us strange looks. ¡°Can you please calm down.¡± he hushed as he ran his hand through his hair three times, before he fixed his eyes back on me. Deep ocean blue eyes, the kind of eyes that you could get lost in.

    ¡°No, no, no!¡± I stopped in my tracks and he let out a loud frustrated groan.

    ¡°We can talk, but just not here.¡± he hissed, as he held me firmly on my arm and continued to walk.

    ¡°We will talk here! I don¡¯t care!¡± I seethed as I narrowed my eyes angrily at him.

    He threw his hands in the air out of frustration and snapped: ¡°Fine you want to talk? Let¡¯s talk!¡±

    ¡°What the hell was that inside of Victoria¡¯s secret with that redhead?! Now I¡¯m kicked out of that store thanks to you!¡± I was infuriated about what happened. I have never been kicked out of a store and then Flynnes along and manages to do that in less than ten minutes.

    After Flynn imed that I was his girlfriend, redhead started to go crazy. She threw the red corset she had in her hand in my face while calling me all the synonyms of the word bitch. In simple words, she was causing a scene, which led to us being kicked out of the store.

    ¡°Will you please calm the fuck down?!¡± he snapped, and muttered under his breath loud enough for me to hear: ¡°If one hot tempered redhead wasn¡¯t enough, karma had given me another one to deal with and you¡¯re not even a redhead.¡±

    My face turned red as I was getting furious at what he just said. This guy really knows how to push my buttons I didn¡¯t even know exist.

    ¡°What did you just say?!¡± I snarled giving him a death stare.

    ¡°I said calm down! You look like you¡¯re about to explode!¡±

    ¡°I am about to explode, if you¡¯re not telling me now what was going on in there!¡±

    He let out a deep breath. ¡°Do you really want me to say it here? In the middle of the sidewalk?¡±

    ¡°Yes! I don¡¯t think it can get any worse than what had happened in Victoria¡¯s secret.¡±

    What can get any worse than being kicked out of Victoria¡¯s Secret?

    ¡°She was the worse one night stand I had ever had and I needed to get rid of her!¡± After those words left his mouth, all the people that were passing by, stared at us wide eyed.

    ¡°You know what?¡± I massaged my temples as I closed my eyes for a second, this guy is unbelievable. ¡°Let¡¯s go to the coffee shop across the street and talk.¡±

    He smirked. ¡°Good, I thought you¡¯d never ask.¡±

    ¡­¡­.

    ¡°Now, exin.¡± I said, looking at the hot specimen in front of me. We had just ordered our coffee and settled down in the corner of the coffee shop, away from the bustle. Now that I was sitting across him on eye level I had a better look at his face. He was even more handsome from close up. His face, something about him looks oddly familiar. I just can¡¯t seem to remember if I have met him before.

    ¡°Are you done checking me out?¡± he asked amused, a smile twitching at the corner of his lips.

    ¡°Are you done being cocky?¡± I retorted.

    He chuckled and said: ¡°Always have answers ready for everything huh?¡±

    ¡°What can I say? Now, let¡¯s talk about what we actually came here for.¡±

    He looked down at his coffee mug and started to talk. ¡°Last night I invited Pam, the redhead, for a one night stand. She wore her red corset that her boyfriend bought for her and I identally tore it apart. Needless to say I had to buy her a new one. She persisted that I needed to go with her to buy it or she would cause a scene in mypany. And that¡¯s thest thing that I want, I don¡¯t want all my employees to know that their boss is going around tearing girl¡¯s corsets apart. So I decided to go with her.¡±

    He looked up at me, waiting for my response.

    ¡°That still didn¡¯t answer my question.¡±This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°What was your question again?¡± he asked again. I rolled my eyes at him. Does he suffer from memory loss or something?

    ¡°I asked, why did you have to lie to that redhead that I¡¯m your girlfriend?¡±

    ¡°Oh that.¡± he snickered. ¡°She was the worse one night stand I ever had and her head game was really weak, so no, I don¡¯t want to spend my money on trash. So I needed to get rid of her somehow without offending her.¡±

    My mouth hung with lips slightly parted and my eyes were as wide as they could stretch at what he just said.

    I will say it again. This guy is unbelievable.

    ¡°You know what, have a wonderful day.¡± That was all I could say before standing up and leaving the coffee shop without sparing him another nce.

    ¡­¡­.

    Flynn Vasilios P. O. V

    ¡°Sir¡­ Tomorrow you have a meeting with your sister and her business associates from Brazil.¡± Timon my personal assistant handed me a stack of files as I entered my office.

    ¡°Mh, do I have ns for tonight Timon?¡± I asked looking at the fifty five year old man in front of me.

    He worked for thispany for almost fifteen years now and he was also the personal assistant for my dad.

    ¡°Yes, with Zoe yton. It¡¯s herst night in New York, before she will go back to Russia.¡±

    ¡°Russia?¡± I asked curious. Isn¡¯t she supposed to go to Brazil?

    ¡°Yes, in thetest gossip it says that she is thetest mistress of the Russian minister sir.¡± Timon said with a straight face, but I could sense that he was ufortable telling me that.

    ¡°Cancel my ns with her tonight, instead send her flowers.¡±

    ¡°Well sir, she will not be happy with it. You already ditched her on the night of Kat Von D¡¯s party.¡±

    ¡°Do I look like I care? And bytheway I couldn¡¯t help that Hanna was hotter than her. Now go and do what I¡¯ve asked you.¡±

    He nodded his head and walked to the main door, but before he closed the door he turned around and said: ¡°Oh and sir, it was not Hannah you had ditched Zoe for. It was Kelly.¡±

    How the hell did he know who she was and I didn¡¯t? And what¡¯s the difference between Hannah and Kelly? They are all the same. Long hair, big breasts, and good in bed or in Kelly¡¯s case a bathroom stall.

    I sat down on the big chair behind my desk and pulled my phone out of my pocket. I send a quick message to Rodrigo asking if he¡¯s up to go to the club tonight. He immediately responded with yes. I send him the time and ce, before shutting off my phone. I looked at the huge stack of papers in front of me. I let out a heavy sigh before I started reading them one by one.

    Slowly my mind started to wander to something else. Or not something, but someone.

    I sat in the first row at the Mn fashion show, waiting for Zoe to walk the runway. That time Zoe was just a dear friend of mine, nothing else. I was in Mn for a business meeting with my dad. I was in my second year of college and my dad wanted me to gain skills by bringing me to his meetings. I was tapping impatiently with my shoe on the floor, this fashion show was boring.

    Then I saw her.

    She was stumbling her way to the exit of the building. Her long, wavy brown hair and skin tight peach dress that hugged her curves in all the right ces caught my attention.

    I need to know who she is.

    I excused myself from the people around me and followed the mysterious girl. I saw her outside sitting on a bench with a bottle of whiskey in her hand.

    It was chilly outside, but she seemed unbothered.

    I walked closer to her and from close up she was even prettier. She had pretty blue-green eyes, which were calm and emotionless. I wanted to reach out and touch her lips, full and glossy red even in the fading light of the evening. But I restrained myself from doing it since it would be creepy.

    ¡°You know.¡± she suddenly said, her voice so soft that I could barely hear her. ¡°Haven¡¯t you learned that staring is rude and creepy?¡±

    I chuckled as I sat down next to her. Pretty girl had caught me. She looked over at me and said: ¡°What is a good looking guy like you doing here outside with me? All the models are inside.¡±

    She was drunk.

    I could hear it through the way she talked and the way she smelled. It was a mixture of strawberry and whiskey. For some reasons it was a major turn on.

    ¡°What is a pretty girl like you doing here outside, alone and drunk?¡± I retorted.

    She threw her head back andughed. ¡°I¡¯m here to forget everything for a while.¡± she mumbled after she was doneughing.

    ¡°And what do you want to forget?¡± I asked her in a whisper.

    ¡°Everything.¡± She looked at me with her big mischievous blue-green eyes. Her eyes screamed trouble, but I know that she was a good girl. ¡°And you can help me with that.¡±

    Before I could ask her how, she grabbed me by my tie and kissed me fully on my lips. Her lips tasted like strawberries and whiskey.

    Delicious.

    ¡­¡­.

    ¡°What are you thinking about?!¡± A voice woke me up from my thoughts. I looked around and saw Rodrigo leaning on the doorframe, smirking at me. ¡°Is it her?¡±

    ¡°Oh shut up, what are you doing here?¡±

    Rodrigo looked confused at me. ¡°Weren¡¯t you the one that called me and asked if we could go clubbing tonight?¡±

    ¡°Isn¡¯t it too¨C¡± I looked at my watch and my eyes widened. ¡°Never mind, let¡¯s go.¡±

    It was already nine at night. I didn¡¯t know it was thiste. I looked at the work I had finished and it wasn¡¯t a lot. I grabbed my car keys and walked towards Rodrigo.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡± I huffed. ¡°And stop smirking, I know you caught me thinking¨C¡±

    ¡°Drooling.¡± he corrected. ¡°Drooling at the thought of her.¡±

    I red at him. ¡°I wasn¡¯t drooling.¡±

    Heughed loudly. ¡°Of course you will deny that¡­ I know you better than today Flynnie boy, it¡¯s time you tell her.¡±

    ¡­¡­.

    ¡°What!¡± Rodrigo screamed making everyone in the vip section stare at us.

    ¡°Shut the hell up!¡± I hissed ncing around the room. ¡°I mean don¡¯t shut up, but don¡¯t be so fucking loud.¡±

    ¡°I can¡¯t help and bytheway, redhead¡¯s name is not Pam, It¡¯s Poppy.¡±

    ¡°Poppy?¡± I asked dumbfounded.

    Rodrigo nodded. ¡°Yes it¡¯s Poppy; you¡¯re talking about the girlfriend of Jay Williams¡¯s right?¡±

    ¡°Yes, but. But¡­ I¡¯m pretty sure she told me her name was Pam.¡±

    ¡°Oh, then I guess you had sex with her aunt. Her aunt¡¯s name is Pam and they look awfully alike.¡±

    ¡°What?!¡± This time I was the one that screamed. I told Rodrigo about everything that happened at Victoria¡¯s Secret. And now he¡¯s telling me that the redhead I had a one night stand with was not Poppy who I actually thought it was, but it was Pam her aunt? I need to stop calling girls sweetheart to avoid these types of situations, dammit!

    ¡°Man you¡¯re screwed¡­ I mean Poppy and Pam look alike, because Pam is nothing but a stic. She wants to look like her niece so bad¡±

    Fuck. Fuck. Fuck.

    I took the whole Martini bottle and gulp it down my throat.

    ¡°Hey!¡± Rodrigo yelled trying to take the Martini bottle out of my hand. ¡°Are you out of your mind? Tomorrow you need to go to office.¡±

    ¡°Fuck that!¡± I growled. ¡°I had a fucking one night stand with Poppy¡¯s aunt!¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not the end of the world.¡± Rodrigo snatched the martini bottle out of my hand and hid it under the table. ¡°Your mind is messing with you since you saw her.¡±

    ¡°Can I help it?¡± I groaned. I¡¯m so screwed. How could I not see the difference between Poppy and Pam. That¡¯s right there¡¯s no difference, except for the fact that Pam is horrible in bed.

    ¡°I said it so many times and I will say it again¡­ Tell her.¡±

    I stared at Rodrigo. ¡°Do you think she will believe me?¡± I said. ¡°Just like, oh hey I was the guy you had a one night stand with six years ago and I can¡¯t get you out of my mind. Do you know how weird that sound?¡±

    ¡°Not if you take her to dinner?¡±

    ¡°Dinner?¡± I simpered. ¡°Do you know how hard it was to get her in that coffee shop to talk? She despises me.¡±

    Rodrigo shook his head as heughed quietly. ¡°That¡¯s why you should stop being a womanizer. Have you ever thought about why she despises you? Yes, because you¡¯re a fucking manwhore.¡±

    ¡°I really need to clear up my mind.¡± I took out my phone and Rodrigo looked at me wide eyed. ¡°You¡¯re not doing what I think you¡¯re going to do.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s herst day here in New York before she will go back to her new lover in Russia. I might as well enjoy while she¡¯s still here.¡±

 94

    Jill Malik P. O. V

    I did the final touches on my makeup before I walked out of my room to have breakfast. I smelled the pancakes before my other senses registered their presence. I walked into the kitchen to see Reina frying pancakes in her underwear as she was humming an unfamiliar tune.

    I snuck up behind her and snagged a piece of Pancake out of the huge stack. I grabbed a te and retreated with my golden brown pancake towards the syrup. I always wondered how she could make pancakes so perfectly.

    After thering the still steaming pancake with liquid sugar, I gingerly cut off a bite and lifted it towards my mouth.

    Pure bliss.

    ¡°You look cute today.¡± Reina said as she nced over at me.

    ¡°Thanks, I¡¯m going to a meeting today with Ximena and ire.¡± I scooped up another bite to rece the one which was quickly dissolving in my mouth.

    ¡°Delicious pancakes.¡±

    ¡°Thanks.¡± She replied smiling.

    After I finished eating my pancakes I grabbed my bag from the counter and walked towards the main door.

    ¡°I will see you tonight.¡± I yelled out at Reina who was still in the kitchen.

    ¡°Uhm actually I will have dinner with Luca tonight.¡± she said biting her lower lip.

    ¡°Well have fun.¡± I said wiggling my eyebrows and giving her a wink.

    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s not like that!¡± she yelled before I closed the door behind me.

    ¡­¡­.

    ¡°Who are we still waiting for?¡± I asked, annoyed. We were already twenty minutes in the conference room waiting for one person before we could start the meeting. Ximena was standing in the doorway looking stressed while giving ire orders. I looked around the table and some of them were already getting impatient.

    ¡°How long do we still need to wait?¡± one of them asked impatiently as he looked at his Rolex watch. ¡°The meeting was supposed to start twenty minute ago.¡±

    I was about to stand up and ask Ximena what is happening when suddenly a pissed off Flynn stepped in the conference room.

    His hair was messy, his eyes bloodshot red, but he still look as handsome as ever. He sat down on the vacant chair and my eyes widened.

    All this time we were waiting for him?

    ¡­¡­¡­.

    Jill Malik P. O. V

    The meeting went really well, except for the fact that one person kept falling asleep constantly. It¡¯s annoying and highly unprofessional to hear someone snore when you¡¯re in a meeting. Ximena had to elbow him asionally so he would stay awake. Now and then he nced over at me and every time he did that my heart makes this weird dance. It¡¯s so annoying since I¡¯m supposed to dislike him for what he did yesterday.

    Ximena¡¯s Brazilian associate were really impressed by the presentation and told her that they would send her an email with their final decision. I was so proud of Ximena. She deserved this. She deserved to expand her business internationally.

    ¡­¡­.

    ¡°What the hell Flynn?¡± Ximena growled when everyone left and we were now alone in the conference room. Flynn looked up at her wearily. I doubt that he had breakfast this morning, because he looks exhausted.

    ¡°Spare me the lecture, I fucked up I know.¡± he groaned as he leaned back on his chair and closed his eyes. Even when he¡¯s like this, he¡¯s handsome. His hair was a mess, he looks paler than ever, his tie hung loosely around his neck, and still he looks like a modeling straight out of Forbes magazine. For a hot and smart CEO -he has the looks and he graduated from Harvard with flying colors- he sure is irresponsible.

    ¡°You have a hangover on a weekday? Care to exin why?¡± Ximena tapped angrily on the table with her nails. She always does that when she¡¯s angry. I think that¡¯s the only reason why she gets her nails done every week, for the sound it makes when she taps with them on the table.

    ¡°Stop that, it¡¯s annoying.¡± Flynn muttered, pointing at Ximena¡¯s nails ticking on the table. ¡°And no, it¡¯s none of your business.¡±

    She let out an exasperated sigh and looked over at me. I was collecting some papers and was about to head out.

    ¡°Uhm, I have to go now, I¡¯ll see you tomorrow.¡± I said, not wanting to be in the middle of a possible sibling fight.

    ¡°I¡¯ll pick you up at eight in the morning.¡±

    I nodded. ¡°Sounds good.¡±

    I threw a quick nce at Flynn who was half asleep half-awake in the chair before I headed out. During my presentation I¡¯d done that too, throwing quick nces at him. Even when he had a hangover his eyes shined so impossibly blue like there was a sky trapped behind his pupils.

    ¡­¡­.

    It was a beautiful day in New York City. I was nning to go on a little shopping spree today, but Ethan, one of my closest friends from university, texted me a while ago asking if I was able to join him for lunch. Of course I replied with a yes, since I haven¡¯t seen him in a while. He went back to Germany after graduation, because of an internship he got.

    I drove to the address Ethan had texted me and I ended up at this ce called Margon. I had never eaten here before. I grabbed a small mirror out of my bag and fixed my makeup and hair before getting out of the car.

    Margon, was a small restaurant, far from where I¡¯m used to eat. Working for Ximena, gave me the privilege to eat at five star restaurants like Le Bernardin, Gramercy Tavern, Del Posto, etc.

    I walked inside the restaurant, searching for Ethan. I found him in the corner waving at me. He hadn¡¯t changed that much, the only thing that changed was his hair. In university he had short curly copper brown hair, but now they were tied in a bun on top of his head. The bun was so perfect; I ask myself where he had learned to do that. Until this day, I still can¡¯t do the iconic messy Tumblr bun on my hair.

    ¡°JJ, long time no see.¡± he walked over at me and gave me a tight hug. ¡°I missed you!¡±

    In university Ethan gave me the nickname JJ, which I didn¡¯t approve of the first time. I mean Jill itself was already short, but Ethan being sozy had toe up with something shorter than Jill.

    As time passed by and Ethan kept calling me JJ, I got used to it. He¡¯s also the only person who can call me JJ, if someone else would call me that I wouldn¡¯t hesitate to punch the person square in the face.

    We settled down on a table next to the window and ced our order. ¡°Oh my god, I need to tell you something!¡± Ethan said excitement visible in his eyes.

    ¡°What?¡± I asked curious. He beckoned me toe closer to him and whispered something in my ear. My eyes widened in surprise and my mouth fell open. No way!

    ¡­¡­.

    ###Chapter 6

    Flynn Vasilios P. O. V

    ¡°Sir, do you want another cup of coffee?¡± Timon asked as he picked up the coffee mug from my desk.

    ¡°No, I already drank four cups. Can you grab me a sandwich?¡±

    He nodded. ¡°On my way sir.¡±

    He walked out of the office and I just sat there in my office thinking about what happenedst night.

    Last night was just a blur. I can remember that I went to Zoe¡¯s hotel, which was a bad idea if I think about it now. After that I can¡¯t remember much, only the part where she gave me a blowjob in the kitchen, but that¡¯s pretty much it. I can¡¯t even remember how her lips felt on my manhood.

    This morning I woke up with a bad headache, a naked Zoe on my chest, and fifty missed calls from Timon. I was already ten minuteste to the meeting and I knew Ximena would be furious.

    When I arrived in the conference room, the first thing I saw was her. She wore a peach colored dress that ended right above her knee and emphasized all her curves.

    Is she even allowed to wear that? It¡¯s distracting.

    Every time I see her I keep falling more in love with her and each time it gets harder than thest. Every time the feeling gets deeper, moreplete. She doesn¡¯t know what she¡¯s doing to me, but then again¡­ I don¡¯t show it.

    I tried my hard best to stay awake during the whole meeting, to admire her beauty, to look at her luscious lips as she spoke, but dammit this hangover was the worse.

    I don¡¯t know how long I can live like this anymore. I had searched for her for two years straight without any result. The only thing I got was: She was not from Mn.

    That¡¯s when I broke down. She could be anywhere in the world. The only thing I knew about her was her name.

    Jill.

    There are millions of Jill¡¯s on this and everyday new ones are born. Looking for her would be like carrying water to the sea. In vain.

    I also had her ne. It was stuck on my suit. I kept that safely with me; maybe one day when I will see her again I would give it back. And now she¡¯s here. Right here, in New York. All the years that I have practiced how to approach her, disappeared. My mind is just nk and my heart is in a twist. What the hell is she doing to me?

    ¡°Babe.¡±

    My body froze. That voice. That dulcet, honeyed, mellisonant voice. I could recognize it out of a thousand other voices.

    ¡°Sera.¡± I said through gritted teeth looking slowly up at her.

    She was standing in the doorway still beautiful as ever. I can see that the Nethends had done her really good.

    Sera is a beautiful woman, but only on the outside. Her tall frame and slender body were like a Victoria¡¯s secret model. She had curly ck hair and tanned skin which made her red lips stand out. Her highlight was blinding me as she was dressed in a skintight orange dress that showed off her hourss figure.

    Usually I hated orange on girls, but she could pull off every color. Hell! If she would wear a garbage bag she would still look as beautiful as ever.

    Her pretty face and her cleavage could get her anything and anyone. For one year I was the lucky one that could call her my girlfriend, but Sera stays Sera. A gold digging witch.

    ¡°Long time no see babe.¡± she graciously walked over to my desk, bent a little bit so I could get a glimpse of her cleavage, before sitting on the chair.

    So much for sitting on a chair.

    ¡°Excuse me? But who gave you permission to be here and waste my time?¡±

    Sheughed. Herugh was warm and hearty.

    Dammit, why does she have this effect on me after two years?

    ¡°Babe, how can you say that? I¡¯m your girlfriend, how am I wasting your time?¡± she gasped as she ced her hand over her heart.

    I shook my head lightly. ¡°Have you been taking acting ssestely?¡±

    She chuckled. ¡°That¡¯s an insult for me, I was born with this.¡±

    ¡°Of course.¡± I muttered. ¡°Born to be the devil of seduction.¡±

    ¡°Mmh.¡± she murmured, her eyes glimmering. ¡°I always called myself the devil in disguise, but devil of seduction sounds better.¡±

    ¡°Are you here to waste my time Sera because¡ª¡± I wasn¡¯t in the mood to talk to her. Once upon a time I liked her, but now she¡¯s just nothing to me. The feelings I still have for her are just lust and not love. I would have probably banged her the moment she stepped into my office, but the hangover and the thought of Jill stopped me from doing so.

    She held her index finger up. ¡°Tsk. Tsk. I didn¡¯te here to waste your time, the reason I came here is to continue what we had.¡±

    I stared at her agape. If she thinks that I will take her back after what she did, she¡¯s so wrong.

    ¡°What we had is dead Sera. Get over it!¡±N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.

    She chuckled softly. ¡°No it¡¯s not. Not until I say it is.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not afraid to reject you Sera, now get the hell out of my office.¡± I was getting annoyed by her presence. I know that she has never been rejected before, but for everything there¡¯s a first time.

    She pouted. ¡°Flynn, honey. Did you find someone else?¡±

    Yes! I wanted to scream. Someone better than you.

    ¡°I don¡¯t see how that is any of your business.¡± I said instead.

    Sheughed. Not the cute kind ofugh, but the hysterical kind ofugh.

    ¡°You¡¯re mine Flynn. Mine!¡± she stated firmly as she red at me from under her thick eyshes.

    I couldn¡¯t help, but chuckle. ¡°I¡¯m the one that should be possessive here, not you. What you did was unforgivable.¡±

    Her eyes squinted as she red at me. ¡°I already told you sorry.¡± She pursed her lips and knitted her eyebrows giving me the sad puppy dog face.

    I rolled my eyes. I saw that face so many times already during our so called rtionship. ¡°Even if you say sorry a hundred times, it will not change the fact that you have slept with the Dutch prime minister and even elope with him.¡±

    ¡°You were so busy with work and you couldn¡¯t satisfy my needs!¡± she defended herself. As if the Dutch prime minister could do that. He was old, he could be her dad.

    Iughed at her poor excuse. The truth is, she¡¯s a gold-digger. ¡°And what makes you think I¡¯m a changed man now? I¡¯m still as busy as ever.¡±

 95

    ¡°And that¡¯s where you¡¯re wrong.¡± she said as she brushed a strand of hair out of her face. ¡°You¡¯re not the one that changed. I am.¡±

    I stared at her for a good minute before bursting out inughter.

    ¡°What¡¯s so funny?¡± she looked at me confused.

    ¡°You? Changed?¡± I provoked.

    ¡°You don¡¯t believe me?¡± she asked in disbelief.

    ¡°Of course¡­ not. Now will you please get your butt out of my office, you¡¯re wasting my time.¡±

    Right then Timon came into my office with my sandwich. ¡°Uhm, am I interrupting something?¡± his eyes went to me and Sera.

    ¡°Yes.¡± ¡°No.¡± We both said simultaneously.

    Timon raised his eyebrows at me.

    I looked at Sera and said sternly, ¡°Did yourtest boyfriend fuck your brain out, because I already told you to get your butt out of my office, or I will call my security to do it for you!¡±

    A cruel sneer formed on her smooth face as she stood up and leaned forward, eyes bearing straight into mine.

    ¡°You and I are unfinished business!¡± With that she stormed out of my office, mming the door behind her shut, making the paintings on my walls shatter on the floor.

    ¡°Bitch!¡±

    ¡­¡­¡­

    Jill Malik P. O. V

    ¡°Are you done yet?¡± Ximena was knocking softly on the aluminum bathroom door.

    ¡°In a minute.¡± I hurriedly stuffed all my clothes in my bag and adjusted my bikini strap in the huge mirror.

    Twenty minutes ago we arrived at this big elegant yacht with a stylish white superstructure and a distinguished blue hull. On the side there was written in bold letters: F. Vasilios.

    The yacht was even more beautiful from inside. It was beautifully crafted, opulent and the spacious interior offers multiple options for dining, rxation and entertainment.

    There was also a cinema, a gymnasium, several bars, arge deck pool, state-of-the-art audio/visual andmunication systems as well as a ss elevator serving four decks and a private observation lounge.

    I couldn¡¯t help then to swoon over everything. It was so beautiful, elegant, and ssy.

    I opened the door of the bathroom and Ximena was standing there in her white bikini with flower embroidery.

    ¡°How do you do that?¡± Ximena stared at me, hands on her hips, as she took in my appearance.

    ¡°Do what?¡± I asked, not knowing what she was talking about.

    ¡°Wearing a in ck bikini and still look so damn sexy.¡±

    ¡°Hey, hey.¡± I chuckled. ¡°If there¡¯s anyone who looks hot and sexy here, it¡¯s definitely you.¡±

    She shook her head wildly. ¡°Oh hell no, what¡¯s your diet secret?¡±

    Diet secret?

    Iughed at the stupid question, but stopped abruptly when I saw Ximena¡¯s serious expression. ¡°You¡¯re not serious right?¡±

    She snorted. ¡°Do I look like I¡¯m joking?¡±

    ¡°Well, to answer your question. No, I don¡¯t have a diet secret.¡±

    ¡°What?¡± she eximed her eyes turning the size of Texas. ¡°You¡¯re kidding!¡±

    ¡°Nope.¡±

    ¡°Dammit, the world is so unfair.¡± she mutters incoherently.

    ¡°Ah shut up, you have a killer body yourself.¡±

    Sheughed. ¡°To have this killer body I need to go for a jog every morning and I need to watch what I eat. I only need to smell chocte and I will gain twenty five pounds. Anyways let¡¯s go, I want to show you the pool.¡±

    I put my bag with clothes in one of the big drawers and followed Ximena through the big yacht. I¡¯m pretty sure that without her I would get lost.

    We were in the living room, on our way to the pool when Flynn, Rodrigo, and an unfamiliar girl arrived.

    Please don¡¯t tell me she¡¯s one of Flynn¡¯s regrs, she¡¯s way too pretty for that. She didn¡¯t acknowledge us, because she was busy ring at Rodrigo.

    Is she a new girlfriend of Rodrigo? But they look awfully alike.

    ¡°Rodrigo!¡± she stomped. ¡°Don¡¯t ignore me!¡±

    We all looked at her with raised eyebrows. ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡± she said apologetically to us, ¡°It¡¯s just that my beloved brother here refused to stop at McDonalds, because he said and I quote ¡®there¡¯s food in the yacht that¡¯s healthier¡¯. I¡¯m not twelve for god sake!¡±

    Ximena chuckled. ¡°Aren¡¯t you supposed to go on a diet for your next photoshoot? I don¡¯t think Ashley would be pleased if she heard you ate McDonalds.¡±

    ¡°Finally someone who understands!¡± Rodrigo eximed throwing his hands in the air. ¡°That¡¯s what I was trying to tell her.¡±

    ¡°She will not know, what she didn¡¯t see!¡± she replied casually, and then looked at me. ¡°You!¡± she eximed, running towards me and embracing me in a bone crushing hug.

    She released me and then looked at me with the biggest smile stered on her face. ¡°Hi! I¡¯m Ellie, you must be Jill.¡±

    I just stared at her shocked and confused. ¡°Y-yeah¡± I stammered, ¡°How did you know?¡±

    ¡°Oh.¡± she chuckled, rolling her eyes as if it was a stupid question. ¡°Those two dickheads told me a lot about you.¡± She motioned towards Flynn and Rodrigo, who at their turn yelled: ¡°Excuse me?!¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I meant assholes.¡± Then she turned back at me and squealed. ¡°Oh my god, you look so pretty.¡±

    ¡°I told her.¡± Ximena chimed in. ¡°And you know what she told me? She can eat anything she wants and still have that figure.¡±

    Ellie stared at me agape. ¡°You¡¯re kidding me.¡±

    ¡°Nope.¡± Ximena answered.

    ¡°Damn girl, I¡¯m low-key jealous!¡±

    ¡°You should be¡± We all turned around to look at Flynn.

    ¡°Excuse me?¡± I said confused, I¡¯m pretty sure I haven¡¯t heard him right.

    ¡°I said she should be jealous of your body. It¡¯s perfect.¡± he repeated nonchntly.

    If my heart could jump out of my chest, it would happen right now. Did the Flynn Vasilios justpliment me? I was frozen in spot, trying to process hispliment. Ximena was the first one who said something.N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.

    ¡°Do I smell love in the air?¡±

    This time I turned my head at Ximena and red at her. Really? From all the things she could¡¯ve said, that¡¯s what she came up with?

    Flynn coughed at the question of Ximena and turned his head to his right. ¡°Martini, Rodrigo?¡± he asked instead, looking at his best friend.

    Rodrigo nodded. ¡°Yeah, yeah Martini.¡±

    And they both walked out of the living room to the bar which was on the second floor.

    Ellie turned around me and faced me with excitement in her eyes.

    ¡°Oh my god!¡± she squealed. ¡°You. Flynn. Are you guys a thing?¡±

    ¡°What? No, not at all. Why do you think that?¡±

    She just shrugged. ¡°Maybe, because it¡¯s so obvious.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not; I think he hates my guts.¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s a thin line between love and hate.¡± Ellie said, giving me a wink.

    ¡°Ok El it¡¯s enough, if you want to y cupid for my brother and my best friend, do it when I¡¯m not around.¡± Ximenaughed ufortably.

    ¡°Why?¡± Ellie asked smirking, and then continued, ¡°You don¡¯t like it when I match your ugly brother with one hell of a fine girl?¡±

    ¡°Exactly, I don¡¯t know what girls see in him.¡±

    ¡°Okay first of all Flynn is not ugly.¡± I said looking at both of them. Flynn is absolutely NOT ugly, in fact he¡¯s one hot specimen made out of a dozen of sexiness, hotness, and cockiness.

    ¡°Of course you will not think he¡¯s attractive Ximmy, he¡¯s your brother.¡± Ellie said in a matter-of-fact tone, ignoring my statement.

    ¡°Anyways!¡± Ximena gave us a big wide smile. ¡°Let¡¯s not talk about my brother anymore, let¡¯s go swimming.¡± We walked out of the living room, passed the gymnasium, and we ended up outside where there was a huge pool with a bar waiting for us.

    We jumped in the water, yed volleyball, and after that we drank cocktail at the bar. I learned that Ellie was Rodrigo¡¯s little sister. She was twenty three years old and she was a writer and a model. Ellie was outgoing and loud, the type of friend you had to warn first before you introduce her to other people.

    After a while Flynn called us, that lunch was ready. We got out of the pool and wrapped a towel around our wet body, before heading to the second floor to have lunch. I was surprised to see how much food there was. I was even more surprised to hear that everything was prepared by Rodrigo.

    ¡°Yup, my brother is a good cook.¡± Ellie said as she sat down on one of the Rotan chairs. I sat down next to her and looked at all the delicious food on the table. There was seafood pasta with goat cheese, orange chicken, fried rice, pandan wrapped chicken wings, Lasagna, and bread roll.

    ¡°Did you prepare all this?¡± I asked looking at Rodrigo. This was a lot for lunch and it all look so delicious.

    Rodrigo nodded. ¡°Yup, it didn¡¯t take long. I¡¯m used to cook.¡±

    ¡°Where did you learn how to cook? Are you a chef?¡±

    Heughed. ¡°No, but I did take culinary ss in high school and when I was in college I watched a lot of Giada De Laurentiis videos.¡±

    ¡°Really?¡± I chuckled. ¡°I thought you would say Gordon Ramsay?¡±

    ¡°Nah.¡± Rodrigo ced a napkin beside my te. ¡°Giada is hot and she kept me interested in this whole cooking thing.¡±

    Iughed at his response. ¡°But how did you learn how to make all these international dishes, because Giada is a american-italian chef?¡±

    He shrugged. ¡°Practice makes perfect. You see that orange chicken there? Took me two years to make it as good as the ones from Joe¡¯s Shanghai.¡±

    Flynn came out of the kitchen holding two sses with juice. ¡°Orange or apple?¡± he asked looking at me and Ximena. I took the Apple juice whereas Ximena the orange.

    ¡°Where¡¯s mine?¡± Ellie asked, looking at Flynn.

    ¡°Oh.¡± Flynn said. ¡°Your brother told me you would have water.

    ¡°What?!¡± she yelled and then red at Rodrigo. ¡°Please don¡¯t tell me you also made sd for me.¡±

    Rodrigo grinned. ¡°Actually none of the food on the table is for you. I made Chicken avocado sd for you. Healthy and refreshing.¡±

    ¡°Rodrigo!¡± she bawled, hitting her head with her hands. ¡°I¡¯m craving orange chicken and for your information I don¡¯t like avocado.¡±

    ¡°Oh really?¡± Rodrigo provoked. ¡°Last time I checked you were literally confessing your undying love for chicken avocado sandwich at Ashley¡¯s house.¡±

    ¡°That was Ashley¡¯s house, you know how she is!¡± Ellie whined.

    ¡°Fine! You can have orange chicken, but tomorrow no junk food at all!¡±

    ¡°Deal!¡± Ellie took the bowl with orange chicken and scooped a spoonful on her te. I decided to havesagna and bread roll for lunch.

    ###Chapter 7

    During lunch Ximena and Rodrigo held a conversation, Ellie was so engrossed with her food, and Flynn was on his phone, probably texting one of his regrs.

    When we were done we brought everything inside. We didn¡¯t have to do any dishes, because Flynn had a maid who would do itter on today.

    Perks of being rich.

    After we had put all the dishes in the sink, Rodrigo and Ellie went home and Ximena went to take a nap. I decided to go to the upper deck andy down on one of the deck chairs.

    I almost fell asleep when I felt a presence next to me.

    A naked Flynn.

    Well, not fully naked, he wore bright orange Hawaiian shorts. His upper half on the other hand was bare, which means I could see his incredible six pack and V-Line. It¡¯s not something I haven¡¯t seen before, but I couldn¡¯t resist not staring at him.

    ¡°Enjoying the view so far?¡± he asked leaning back putting his hands behind his head.

    ¡°No!¡± I replied fast, thinking he meant the view as in him.

    He chuckled and said, ¡°Pudding, what I meant was the view in front of you, not next to you.¡±

    Oh, both views were breathtaking. Wait what? Did he just call me pudding?

    ¡°Did you just call me pudding?¡± I was perplexed, since when did we start giving each other nicknames?

 96

    ¡°You don¡¯t like it? I have other ones like buttercup, honey bear, or kit¨C¡±

    I interrupted him. ¡°It¡¯s okay, but I mean why pudding?¡±

    He shrugged. ¡°You¡¯re sweet, adorable, and confident.¡±

    ¡°And how do you know that? You barely know me.¡±

    He gave me a mysterious smile. ¡°That¡¯s why I¡¯m sitting here to get to know you, duh.¡±

    As if he thinks I¡¯m interested in a conversation. Secretly, I am.

    ¡°So,¡± he continued. ¡°Let us start over again, because when we met at Ximena¡¯s office I was kind of¡­ shocked.¡±

    ¡°Shocked?!¡±

    I recalled him being mad not shocked. ¡°Your definition of shocked means mad in my dictionary.¡±

    He chuckled, ¡°Pudding that happens when I¡¯m shocked. I yell.¡±

    I shook my head. ¡°You¡¯re unbelievable and I say that because I already have experienced some of your unbelievable moments.¡±

    ¡°If you refer to the bathroom and Victoria secret incidents, those weren¡¯t even close from unbelievable, pudding.¡±

    I looked at Flynn when he said that. I noticed that his eyes were closed and his dark brows were actually graceful, but currently furrowed in a frown. He looked so peaceful like this, not like the arrogant and conceited jerk he always is. He¡¯s quite nice around metely and I wondered why? ¡°A picture willst longer.¡± he mumbled, a small smirk ying on his lips.

    My face turned fifty shades of red. How could he know that I was staring at him?

    ¡°And if you are thinking about how I know that you¡¯re staring at me. You¡¯re eyes are burning holes in my body.¡±

    How the hell did he know that I was thinking about that? Geez. I decided to change the topic.

    ¡°So if you call me pudding, do I need to give you a nickname too?¡± He opened one eye and looked at me. ¡°Do you want to give me one?¡±

    I put on my thinking face. ¡°What about Mr. conceited or Mr. Arrogant?¡±

    ¡°I suggest staying with Flynn.¡± he muttered at my choice of nicknames.

    Iughed. ¡°Come on Flynn, you should help me choose. What do you think fits the best on you?¡±

    He turned his head towards me. ¡°Mh, I would say sexy, hot, Greek god, but I would prefer you calling me daddy.¡±

    ¡°Mr. Conceited it will be then and ew, did you just say I should call you daddy?¡±

    He snickered, ¡°Yes, pudding. I prefer you calling me daddy.¡±

    ¡°Ew, hell no! Gross!¡± I gagged. Flynn burst outughing. ¡°You should have seen your face when you made those gagging noises.¡±

    I shook my head. ¡°You¡¯re a freaking CEO of a multi-billionpany and here you are acting like a high school bad boy.¡±

    He shrugged at my statement. ¡°I don¡¯t really care. I have nothing to lose and bytheway I have dedicated my entire high school and college years to be this sessful, the least I can do now is have fun.¡±

    ¡°But you got thepany on a silver tter; your dad was thest CEO right? Isn¡¯t it some kind of family business, like the oldest son gets thepany kind of thing?¡±This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.

    Flynn scoffed at the question I asked. ¡°Silver tter? Ha, I wished. If I wouldn¡¯t bust my ass off at school he wouldn¡¯t hesitate to give it to someone else who did. It doesn¡¯t matter if it¡¯s a family business or not.¡±

    ¡°I was just asking.¡± I replied in defense, turning my attention back to the water. Maybe having a decent conversation with Flynn wasn¡¯t so bad after all. Maybe he wasn¡¯t so bad after all.

    ¡°Hey.¡±

    I turned my attention back to Flynn when he said that. ¡°I want to show you something.¡±

    He grabbed my hand and I shivered when he did that. I never held his hand before, but it felt like my body recognized his touch, because I got goosebumps all over my body.

    ¡°What?¡± I asked as he dragged me towards the railing of the yacht. He let me lean against the railing as he stand right behind me. If he¡¯s trying to copy the Titanic scene I wouldn¡¯t hesitate kicking him in his balls. I¡¯m not really a Titanic fan, the only reason I watched it was because of young Leonardo.

    ¡°From here you can see the Brooklyn Bridge, at night it is even more beautiful.¡± he whispered in my ear as he put his hands on my waist.

    ¡°Hands to yourself Vasilios.¡± I warned him as I yfully pped his hands. He chuckled as he pulled his hands away from my waist. ¡°It¡¯s Flynn for you pudding.¡±

    I rolled my eyes. ¡°Are we going to stay till night?¡±

    ¡°Uhm no, my mom has a family dinner nned tonight. Did you have fun though, I mean today.¡±

    I nodded my head. ¡°The food was good, so yeah it was fun.¡±

    He chuckled when he heard my answer. ¡°Women and food.¡± he mumbled. ¡°But do you know what¡¯s even more fun?¡±

    I was about to turn around and ask what, but before I could do that he scooped me up bridal style and walked closer to the railing.

    I squealed when he did that. He is not doing what I think he¡¯s doing.

    ¡°Flynn, put me down!¡± I eximed as I was trying to fight my way out of this position, which was useless. Flynn made it seem like I was a feather in his arms.

    ¡°Do you have a dead¨C¡± before I could finish that sentence he threw me in the water.

    Jerk!

    ¡­¡­¡­.

    Jill Malik P. O. V

    ¡°I¡¯m so d you could make it tonight!¡± Ximena squealed and hugged me tightly. She looked drop dead gorgeous in her azure blue dress, itplimented her eyes. Her hair was in a messy bun and she wore a blue flower crown. She looked like a princess, but she had all the right to look like a princess tonight.

    After all it¡¯s her engagement party.

    Reina and I were invited to Ximena¡¯s engagement party. I was not sure if I could make it due so much work recently. Even though Ximena was my friend, I was still her employee and she expects the same from me as she does from other employees.

    Hard work and dedication.

    ¡°Congrattions on your engagement.¡± Reina congratted Ximena. Reina and Ximena knew each other through me. They weren¡¯t really the best of friends, but they could get along really well.

    ¡°Thank you, how are you and Luca doing? I saw pictures of you guys in Daily mail.¡± Ximena said smiling as she looked at Reina who was wearing a ck chiffon dress.

    Reina blushed deeply. ¡°He¡¯s doing great¡­ We¡¯re just.. uhh friends.¡±

    ¡°Ah, that¡¯s great.¡± Ximena replied not really convinced by the hesitant answer of Reina.

    Ximena¡¯s engagement part is held at the Manhattan penthouse. The venue was beautifully decorated and I wondered where Ximena got her wedding nner. Everything was perfectly arranged and the views from up here were spectacr.

    The spacious Reception Room with elegant tables has arched windows on either side of the dance floor. There was also a beautiful bar with stained ss and oak paneling between the two doorways leading to the Ballroom.

    I saw keing towards us with a ss of champagne in his hand. He looked handsome in his blue tuxedo. His tousled ck hair, which was thick and lustrous, wasbed neatly into a man bun. It suited him.

    ¡°Hello Jill, how are you?¡± he asked as he extended his hand for me for a handshake.

    ¡°I¡¯m doing well and bytheway congrattions on your engagement.¡±

    He smiled. ¡°Thanks, hope you have a great night so far.¡±

    I nodded my head. ¡°Yes totally, it¡¯s beautiful up here.¡±

    ¡°It is.¡± he agreed. We talked for a while, but then he had to proceed to walk towards a table behind me to greet more people.

    I decided to get something to drink at the bar, but halfway I got stopped by the trio that walked out of the elevator.

    Flynn, Rodrigo, and Ellie.

    ¡°Jill!¡± Ellie squealed as she ran up to me. The pinkce dress she was wearing hugged all her curves in the right ces. No doubt that she will steal the spotlight from Ximena tonight.

    She hugged me tightly and when she released me I saw Rodrigo and Flynn behind her watching us with an amused expression stered on their face.

    ¡°Hello Rodrigo.¡± I hugged him and he chuckled. Rodrigo is cute, I have to admit. That boy has the looks, but since the first time I¡¯d met him it was clear that he didn¡¯t see me as more than a friend.

    ¡°Nice to meet you again prettydy.¡± He replied chuckling.

    I released myself out of his hug and saw Flynn silently ring at him. I raise my eyebrows up in confusion. What is wrong with him?

    ¡°Good evening Vasilios.¡± I said extending my hand to him for a handshake. He looked dumbfounded at my hand. If he thinks that I forgave him for what had happened in the yacht he is so wrong.

    ¡°No hug?¡± he pouted.

    I rolled my eyes at him.

    ¡°I haven¡¯t forgiven you yet Vasilios!¡± I replied tly.

    ¡°What?!¡± he asked, the smile on his face disappeared. ¡°It has been two weeks and it wasn¡¯t so bad, pudding.¡±

    ¡°It was freezing cold you moron and I don¡¯t forgive so easily.¡±

    He raised an eyebrow. ¡°Oh really?¡± he smirked. ¡°I have sent you so many bouquets thest two weeks. Do you want more so you can forgive me faster?¡±

    I shook my head wildly. The past two weeks he had sent me all types of flowers with a note that said ¡®sorry¡¯. Even though the flowers were pretty and I didn¡¯t have the heart to throw them away, it took quite a lot of space in the living room and on the kitchen counter.

    Last night Reina had to prepare dinner under a huge bouquet of Roses and sunflowers.

    ¡°Oh please don¡¯t, my apartment look like a botanical garden right now.¡±

    Heughed. ¡°So, hug?¡±

    I sighed defeated, ¡°Fine, a hug.¡±

    He walked up to me slowly and pulled me closer to him wrapping his arms around me. His embrace was warm, and his big, strong arms seemed very protective when wrapped around my small body.

    It wasn¡¯t like the quick hug Ellie or Rodrigo gave me. This was a real hug. The world around me melted away as I squeezed him back, not wanting the moment to end.

    I always loved it when guys hugged me like this. For some reasons these hugs were so addictive and I always felt protected. It is the kind of hug I want to feel over and over again.

    ¡°Strawberries and whiskey.¡± he murmured as he inhaled the scent of my hair.

    I gasped and pushed him off me. ¡°What did you just say?¡± I asked shocked.

    ¡°W-what?¡± he looked confused at me.

    ¡°You said something¡­¡±

    He shook his head. ¡°I think I got lost in the moment.¡±

    ¡°You said strawberries and whiskey.¡± I whispered. Thest time I heard someone saying that about me was six years ago.

    ¡°What do you know about that?¡± I whispered again.

    He can¡¯t be the one, can he?

 97

    Flynn Vasilios P. O. V

    She looked like a goddess in the middle of the room. In her red satin dress she looked like the princess version of red riding hood.

    Innocent, sweet, and beautiful.

    Ellie ran towards her for a hug and the smile on her face was what I wanted to see every day for the rest of my life. The way her soft red lips lifted upward. The way her teeth are perfectly aligned. The warm glow her happiness gives.

    Her smile is a ray of sunshine, and I am a sunburn.

    When Ellie released her out of her hug she walked towards us. Her footsteps were light and timid as she slowly approaches us, watching me through her gorgeous blue-green eyes. I can only imagine what might be going through her head. Is she still mad at me?

    She hugged Rodrigo and I couldn¡¯t help but feel jealous. I feel like her and Rodrigo have a really great bond and I want to have that too. Shit, I want to have more than a really great bond. I wanted her to be mine.

    When it was my turn to hug she just extended her hand to me for a handshake. Really? So she¡¯s still mad at me.

    ¡°Good evening Vasilios.¡± she said extending her hand to me for a handshake. The way myst name came out of her sexy mouth was so perfect to be real.

    Since she couldn¡¯te up with a suitable nickname for me ¨C I didn¡¯t approve of her choice of nicknames bytheway ¨C she decided to stick with calling me Vasilios even though I told her to just call me Flynn.

    I looked dumbfounded at her hand. ¡°No hug?¡± I pouted. I was disappointed to say the least. I thought she already forgave me.

    She rolled her eyes.

    ¡°I haven¡¯t forgiven you yet Vasilios!¡± she said tly.

    ¡°What?!¡± I asked, disappointed. I had sent her flowers for two weeks straight and that obviously didn¡¯t work to get her to forgive me.

    I just threw her in the water, nothing bad. Except for the fact that the water was freezing cold. I hadn¡¯t really thought of that. But it was funny and it was also a good excuse to have her in my arms afterwards so she wouldn¡¯t be a human ice cube.

    ¡°It has been two weeks and it wasn¡¯t so bad pudding.¡±

    ¡°It was freezing cold you moron and I don¡¯t forgive so easily.¡±

    Ah, there¡¯s my feisty little pudding.

    I raised my eyebrow. ¡°Oh really?¡± I smirked. ¡°I have sent you so many bouquets thest two weeks. Do you want more so you can forgive me faster?¡±

    She shook her head wildly. ¡°Oh please don¡¯t, my apartment look like a botanical garden right now.¡±

    Iughed. ¡°So, hug?¡± I tried again.

    She sighed defeated, ¡°Fine, a hug.¡±

    I grinned as I walked slowly up to her and pulled her closer to me wrapping my arms around her small body. I felt her head resting on my chest. I buried my face in her hair and inhaled her scent. It brought me back to six years ago.

    Strawberries and Whiskey.

    She gasped and pushed me off her. ¡°What did you just say?¡± she asked shocked.

    ¡°W-what?¡± I looked confused at her.

    ¡°You said something¡­¡±

    I shook my head. ¡°I think I got lost in the moment.¡±

    ¡°You said strawberries and whiskey.¡± she whispered, and continued ¡°What do you know about that?¡±

    ¡°I told you I got lost in the moment¡±

    I looked at the panic expression on her face and that¡¯s when I realized that she knew about it.

    She knew about the one night stand.

    But why can¡¯t she remember me? Or is she just pretending?

    ¡­¡­¡­.

    Jill Malik P. O. V

    ¡°How¡¯s everything at home Tia?¡± I put my phone on loudspeaker as I was wiping the makeup off my face.

    I just returned from Ximena¡¯s party when I decided to give aunt Lydia a call. I haven¡¯t talked to her and Mn in almost two weeks.

    It was two in the morning in New York, but in Barcelona it was already eight in the morning and aunt Lydia and Mn would be awake and have breakfast.

    ¡°Everything is alright, how¡¯s New York?¡± Aunt Lydia asked. I heard Mn¡¯s voice in the background asking for churros. ¡°No! No Churros first drink your milk.¡±

    I chuckled softly as I heard Aunt Lydia talking to Mn. ¡°He still doesn¡¯t like milk?¡± I asked.

    When Mn was still a baby he refused to drink milk like other babies. While it took only a couple minutes to feed a baby, it took me a whole half day to feed Mn.

    ¡°Oh no, I have to bribe him with churros to drink milk.¡±

    Iughed, typical Mn.

    ¡°Are youing for his birthday? He¡¯s asking for you.¡±

    I nodded, but realized that Aunt Lydia couldn¡¯t see me. ¡°Yes, I will. I already told Ximena about it.¡± I said.

    ¡°Good.¡± Aunt Lydia said as she let out a breath of relieve. I know that she¡¯s happy to finally see me again. ¡°You haven¡¯t seen him in two years.¡±

    ¡°Yeah.¡± I sighed. I had missed his fourth and fifth birthday and I still feel so guilty that I couldn¡¯t make it only if it was for a couple of hours. ¡°I was busy with finishing school and stuff.¡±

    ¡°I know, are you nning to take Mn to New York with you?¡±

    I stayed silent for a while when Aunt Lydia asked me that question. I was contemting about taking him with me; New York has a lot of opportunities for him. ¡°I don¡¯t know Tia, I don¡¯t want you to live alone in Barcelona.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about me, I¡¯ll manage.¡±

    ¡°No, I¡¯ll not take Mn with me. If he¡¯s old enough to decide what he wants, he can make his own decision. I¡¯ll always be there for him.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re really smart carina, I don¡¯t know what I would do without you. You¡¯re so kind, generous¨C,¡±

    ¡°Oh tia.¡± I interrupted her, ¡°You would be just fine.¡±

    ¡°No, no¡­ I don¡¯t even want to think about how close I was to lose you.¡±

    ¡°But you didn¡¯t. I¡¯m still alive.¡± I whispered.

    Memories about what happened six years ago start making its way to my head.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, lo siento mucho.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s okay Tia, it¡¯s the¡­ past and it¡¯s not your fault.¡±

    ¡°I want Churros! I already drank my milk.¡± I heard Mn¡¯s voice in the background. I smiled at the sound of him. He¡¯s such a big boy now.

    ¡°You didn¡¯t.¡± Aunt Lydia said usingly. ¡°I saw you throwing it away in the sink.¡±

    Iughed at that. And he¡¯s probably also a bad boy. ¡°Do you hear this Jill?¡± Aunt Lydia huffed and I imagined her rolling her eyes. ¡°He¡¯s not drinking his milk.¡±

    ¡°I am! Can I have a churro now?¡± Mn yelled in the background

    Aunt Lydia sighed; she had a soft spot for that boy. He had her wrapped around his little finger. ¡°Okay, let me end this call first. I¡¯ll talk to youter Jill. Te amo.¡±

    ¡°Te amo.¡± I said, before ending the call. I put my phone down on my nightstand and suddenly everything that happened six years ago started to make its way to my head. I had tried to forget and move on, but every now and then something or someone had to remind me about it. I can¡¯t get rid of that someone, because that someone is Mn.

    I sat on my bed as I let the memories take over my head. It was so long ago, but it felt like it had happened yesterday.

    ¡°Hey don¡¯t cry.¡± Larissa whispered as she hugged me. How can I not cry? We were the ¡®it¡¯ couple at school, four years strong and then bam just like that everything¡¯s gone.

    Our future ns, our marriage, the baby names. We even agreed that our first child name would be Aliyah for a girl and Xavier for a boy. Now I can¡¯t use those names anymore, because it would remind me of him.

    ¡°He broke up with me.¡± I sobbed as I buried my face in the hem of her shirt.

    ¡°Who?¡± Larissa asked. I bet she forgot that I was dating Mateo.

    ¡°Mateo! We were together since freshman year.¡± How I wished I could see the future then I didn¡¯t had to go through this horrible, heartbreaking, and painful process.N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.

    ¡°Oh poor thing¡± Larissa whispered as she hugged me tighter.

    Larissa was the only daughter of Aunty Lydia and Uncle David. When her father died two years ago she moved to Mn, to pursue her career in fashion. She left high school behind and with the money her father left for her in his will she enrolled in a fashion school in Mn.

    Aunt Lydia didn¡¯t stop her, because she knew that¡¯s the way how Larissa is trying to get over the loss of her father.

    Larissa was my everything. She was my only friend and my human diary. I always told her about my problems and I know that my secrets were safe with her.

    When Mateo -my boyfriend since freshman year- broke up with me after I gave my valedictorian speech, I was shattered. My world crumbled, all the ns I had with him vanished. How can someone be so cruel?

    The reason of the break up? He said that he couldn¡¯t do long distance. I got a schrship to study in the USA and he got one to study in Switzend. He didn¡¯t even want to try.

    The most painful thing about the breakup? I wasted four years of my life on some loser, who not only broke up with me, but also had a secret rtionship with a girl in Switzend.

    During spring break of senior year he went to visit a college in Switzend. When he came back, I knew that something was wrong because he became distant, but I didn¡¯t really care about it. It was senior year after all.

    On graduation day I saw an unfamiliar girl sitting with his parents. I assumed it was his cousin or family friend I haven¡¯t met yet. When his parents came to congratte me, I felt that Mateo was getting ufortable next to me. He was shifting from his left feet to his right.

    ¡°What babe?¡± I asked as he was fidgeting nervously with his cap. ¡°N-nothing.¡± he stuttered.

    When the unfamiliar girl next to his parents saw him her eyes lit up and she ran towards him. Long lost cousin perhaps?

    ¡°Congrattions babe!¡± she squealed.

    Definitely not a long lost cousin.

    When those words left her mouth my whole body went numb. I was frozen on spot staring at Mateo with teary eyes as he pecked the girl on her lips. So that¡¯s why he was so distant all those months¡­

    ¡°I- I can exin Jill¡­ It¡¯s¨C¡±

    I interrupted him and screamed: ¡°Shut up! I don¡¯t need no fucking exnation gilipos . I saw enough!¡±

    I ran out of the graduation ceremony and cried my heart out in the car. My head was a mess and I couldn¡¯t think straight.

    Larissa.

    That was the first thing that came into my mind. I need to go to Larissa. I started the car and with a messed up head I started my ten hour journey to Mn.

    This morning I arrived in Mn. Larissa had called Aunt Lydia to tell her I was here. Poor Aunty was worried sick.

    ¡°It will be alright.¡± Larissa cooed. ¡°He is not worth your tears.¡±

    She rubbed my back and fed me soup. ¡°I really missed you Lari.¡± I hupped.

    ¡°I missed you too Jill, but you know that I can¡¯t go back or at least not yet.¡± she whispered.

    ¡°Why?¡± I asked softly

    ¡°Mn is my future. Barcelona is¡­ I¡¯m not ready to go back yet. It still hurts.¡±

    I hugged her tightly. ¡°Sooner orter you should visit. Aunt Lydia misses you.¡±

    She smiled faintly at me. ¡°I know¡­ I miss mom too.¡±

    She looked at her watch and her eyes widened. ¡°Goodness, I need to get ready for the fashion show.¡±

    ¡°Fashion show?¡± I asked wonderingly.

    She nodded. ¡°Yeah, there¡¯s a fashion show tonight.¡± she paused for a second and then looked at me, ¡°You shoulde.¡±

    I shook my head. ¡°That¡¯s not a good idea.¡±

    ¡°It is a good idea. I don¡¯t want you to stay here and overthink everything.¡±

    I stayed quiet, the only thing I need right now is ice cream, Netflix, and a box with tissues.

    ¡°Finish your soup, I¡¯ll send a dress and makeup up to your room.¡± Larissa said before she exited my room. Well, I guess she didn¡¯t take no for an answer.

    I looked around the room. It was a beautiful baronial room decorated in an old fashioned style. There were lots of antics in different cabs, but beside that I also spotted a cab with all types of liquor.

    If Larissa wanted me to go to that fashion show at least I need to clear my mind somehow. Whiskey can help me with that. Whiskey always does.

    I walked to the cab and took a bottle of whiskey and hid it in my bag. It¡¯s a bad idea, but not as bad as dating Mateo for four fucking years.

    Suddenly I heard a knock on my door. I opened the door and there was a girl in a maid uniform holding a peach colored dress and shoes in her hand along with a pink bag which I assumed there was makeup in it.

    ¡°Thank you.¡± I said as I took everything from her.

    ¡°You¡¯re wee. Miss said the driver will be here in an hour.¡±

    I nodded and closed the door again. I put everything on the bed and took a shower. I could choose from all different kind of shower gels and shampoo, but I chose for the strawberry one. If I get drunk tonight at least I will smell good.

    After I was done I put the dress on, which was really tight on me, considering that Larissa is one size smaller than I am. Ibed my hair, applied some makeup, applied my favorite red matte lipstick and a coat of strawberry chap stick over it, slip on my shoes, grabbed my bag, and headed downstairs.

    Larissa was waiting for me in her silky robe at the end of the stairs. ¡°You look hot girlfriend!¡± she squealed as she looked at me from head to toe.

    I forced a smile. ¡°Thanks, why aren¡¯t you dressed?¡±

    ¡°I will get dressed at the show,e on let¡¯s go. The show will start in forty minutes.¡±

    We stepped in the car and drove to the fashion show. At the fashion show Larissa gave me a seat in the second row as she went backstage to change. After she went backstage, I grabbed the whiskey bottle out of my bag and started to drink. Slowly, but surely the alcohol started to work.

    I was already waiting thirty minutes for the show to start and still there was nothing. No models, only music. To make things worse there was a couple in front of me acting all lovey dovey with each other.

    Every Time they kissed I wanted to throw the whiskey bottle at their heads, but then again I didn¡¯t want to be charged for murder.

 98

    Fresh air.

    I needed fresh air before I puke over this entire ce ruining the dresses from the people who sat next to me. I stood up from my seat and made my way to the exit.

    It was dark and chilly outside, but I didn¡¯t care.

    I found a bench nearby and decided to sit there until I felt better again. From the corner of my eyes I could see someone staring at me. It was creepy, but he was hot.

    ¡°You know.¡± I said my voice so soft that I could barely hear myself. ¡°Haven¡¯t you learned that staring is rude and creepy?¡±

    He chuckled and sat down next to me. I looked over at him and said: ¡°What is a good looking guy like you doing here outside with me? All the models are inside.¡±

    He was handsome. He had champagne blonde hair, piercing blue eyes, and I could see his six pack through the thin fabric of his shirt. To top all of that, his voice was deep and husky, a huge turn on.

    ¡°What is a pretty girl like you doing here outside, alone and drunk?¡± he retorted.

    I threw my head back andughed.

    ¡°I¡¯m here to forget everything for a while.¡± I mumbled after I was doneughing. I don¡¯t know why I wasughing, the whiskey is probably working. It did the thinking, the talking, and now theughing. I wondered what¡¯s next.

    ¡°And what do you want to forget?¡± he asked in a whisper.N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.

    ¡°Everything.¡± I looked at him with my big mischievous blue-green eyes. There¡¯s a myth that says that people with blue-green eyes can hypnotize people. Usually I would justugh at that, because I don¡¯t believe in myths like how I don¡¯t believe in happy endings anymore. But now it didn¡¯t matter, because I wasn¡¯t doing the thinking. Whiskey did. ¡°And you can help me with that.¡±

    Before my brain could process what my hands was about to do I grabbed him by his white shirt and kissed him fully on his lips. Not innocently, like a tease but hot, fiery, passionate and demanding. Where did I learn to kiss like this? I never kissed Mateo like this.

    I wanted to pull away before I lose myself in him but I can¡¯t seem to¡­ In this moment, my senses have been seduced and I can no longer think straight. His lips felt so soft and warm on mine. I felt his hands on my back ying with the ends of my hair.

    ¡°Room.¡± he whispered huskily as he pulled away slowly. ¡°We need privacy.¡±

    He grabbed my hand and pulled me with him to god knows where. At this point my mind was nk and the only thing that mattered to me was that hot stranger. Part of me knew what was going on, but the other part of me was just whiskey.

    Somehow we ended up in a cab, kissing again. This time even deeper and hotter. I felt bad for the driver who had to witness this through his rear view mirror.

    Suddenly the cab stopped and he took my hand and we walked to what seem like a huge house. I blinked my eyes a little and I noticed it was not a huge house.

    It was a hotel.

    We got a card and walked to our room. I know where this was going, but somehow I couldn¡¯t just process it. My mind was nk, my heart was racing wildly, and my eyes were fixed on that handsome stranger in front of me. The whiskey was slowly taking over my whole body and at this point I didn¡¯t care at all.

    We entered the room and before the door even closed properly, he scooped me up and pressed me against the wall. His lips covered mine and the world seemed to disappear around us. ¡°What¡¯s your name?¡± he asked as he teasingly bit my bottom lip.

    I giggled. ¡°Jill¡±

    ¡°Jill!¡± I woke up from my thoughts as I heard Reina yelling my name outside my door.

    ¡°What?!¡± I yelled back, as I ced my hand on my heart. That was so intense.

    ¡°Are you crying?¡± she asked.

    ¡°No, why do you think that?¡±

    ¡°I thought I heard you sniffing.¡±

    I touched my face and it was wet from tears. Dammit. I have been crying all the time.

    ¡°No, I haven¡¯t.¡±

    It was silent for a while and I thought she went back to her room.

    ¡°Are you catching a cold? Do you want me to make you soup?¡±

    I smiled at her question. What did I do to deserve a best friend like her?

    ¡°No, it¡¯s ok. I¡¯ll just sleep it off.¡±

    ¡°Okay, if there¡¯s anything, don¡¯t hesitate to wake me up.¡±

    ¡°I will not.¡±

    ¡°Okay.¡±she said. ¡°Goodnight.¡±

    ¡°Goodnight.¡±

    ¡­¡­.

    Flynn Vasilios P. O. V

    I looked into her bright blue-green eyes. She was so pretty and sophisticating. A little minx, a temptress without even trying. ¡°What¡¯s your name?¡± I asked as I teasingly bit her bottom lip.

    She giggled. ¡°Jill¡±

    ¡°Mh.¡±I murmured. ¡°Mine¡¯s Flynn.¡±

    ¡°Daddy Flynn?¡± she whispered, her eyes holding a mischievous glint.

    I chuckled. ¡°Daddy Flynn for you only, Pudding.¡± I said as I kissed her neck, a wave of pure pleasure ran through my entire body. The smell of strawberry and whiskey on her was intoxicating. As I kissed my way gently up her neck to her lips that taste of whisky, the scenery disappeared and I was lost in the moment.

    ¡°Jill.¡± I breathed as I carried her to the bed. I put her on top of me.

    She was so small, so pretty, and so innocent.

    I held her firmly on her waist as she tried to wiggle her way out of it, not knowing that she is waking up my big fe. Her eyes widened when it started to poke her tights.

    ¡°Wow.¡± she gasped as she leaned over to me, grabbing the ss of water on the night stand.

    ¡°I am not Jill!¡± A shrill voice yelled causing me to jump out of bed. My hair and my face were wet; someone had thrown water on me. I looked at my bed and saw an angry blonde girl only in her ck lingerie.

    ¡°What the hell was that for?¡± I snapped as I grabbed a towel and dried my face.

    ¡°You were calling me Jill. Who the hell is Jill? I am Samantha!¡± she sneered.

    Shit.

    I must have dreamed about Jill again. Lately I keep getting dreams about Jill and the one night stand, making my current one night stands furious.

    The blonde girl, whose name was probably Samantha jumped out of my bed, took her clothes and stormed out of the hotel room.

    Well at least she did it on herself today, because usually I had to let my security drag her out.

    I sighed as I sat on the edge of my bed. Maybe Rodrigo was right.

    I should tell her.

    ¡­¡­¡­.

    Jill Malik P. O. V

    ¡°Did you alreadye up with a name for my eyeshadow palette?¡± Ximena asked as I took a seat across her in her office. She looked like she didn¡¯t have a good night sleep in days.

    I shook my head as I took a sip of my coffee. It was dark, bitter, and hot. It totally matches my soul. ¡°I¡¯m stuck between Wildest Dream and Dangerous love.¡±

    ¡°Those are actually really good. I like wildest dream.¡±

    ¡°You do? I like that one too.¡± I said relieved. I was actually happy that she likes the name, because I was running out of time, patience, and names. ¡°How¡¯s wedding nning going.¡±

    She sighed, as she propped her elbows on the table and rested her head on her hand. ¡°It¡¯s going great, there¡¯s just so much to do in such a short time.¡±

    ¡°I bet there is. The engagement party two weeks ago was so well nned; I don¡¯t think ke will disappoint you on your wedding day.¡±

    She nodded, but I could see emptiness in her eyes. ¡°Yeah, hees homete every night. I barely see him.¡±

    So that¡¯s why she¡¯s so bby. Ipletely understand why ke don¡¯t want her to worry about the wedding and stuff, but I think that he should also hire someone who could do most of the work instead of him doing it by himself. He had a million dorpany to run and a million dor wedding to n, no wonder hees homete.

    ¡°You moved in with him?¡± I asked surprised. Last time I checked she was still living with her parents. Ximena had her own pent house, but she only stayed there asionally.

    ¡°Yes, since the engagement party.¡±

    I haven¡¯t had a decent conversation with Ximena since the engagement party. After the engagement party she went to Brazil to seal the deal with her Brazilian associates. She stayed there for a couple of days, because she also wanted to attend a fashion show in Rio de Janeiro.

    After that she went straight to Dubai, because ke cousin got married. When she came back I was constantly in meetings with the HR and PR manager discussing theunch of the makeup line, the ce where it will be held, and the exact date of theunch. Today was the first time in weeks since we finally had lunch together.

    ¡°So when are you nning to go to Barcelona?¡± Ximena asked dipping her fries in ketchup.

    ¡°I was thinking about this weekend. I will book my tickets to¨C¡±

    Ximena held her index finger up signaling me to stop. She looked at the main door and cursed inwardly.

    ¡°Flynn, I know you¡¯re there.¡± she yelled, staring daggers at the door. I heard a soft chuckle and the door flew open revealing a grinning Flynn.

    ¡°How did you know sis? Hey Jill.¡± he said, smiling at me.

    I noticed that he had a small dimple on his right cheek when he smiled. A knot formed in my stomach, because that reminded me of someone.

    Six years ago.

    He had a dimple too, on the exact same spot as Flynn. I remembered the kisses I gave that poor dimple, because it was just so damn attractive.

    What if Flynn¨C? No, it can¡¯t be.

    I shook my head, trying to get that ridiculously idea out of my head. If it was Flynn, I¡¯m pretty sure he would make fun of me the very first time he met me.

    Ximena rolled her eyes at the question of her brother. ¡°I can smell your presence from a mile away.¡±

    ¡°Now you¡¯re exaggerating.¡± he said, a small chuckle escaping from his throat. ¡°Anyway, I heard you were talking about going to Barcelona this weekend?¡±

    ¡°So you were eavesdropping too?¡± I asked raising an eyebrow. ¡°That¡¯s just rude.¡±

    Heughed and shook his head. ¡°Do you think I have time to eavesdrop two drama queens? You guys were talking really loud.¡±

    ¡°We are not drama queens!¡± Ximena eximed offended, ¡°and I¡¯m not the one going to Barcelona. Jill is.¡±

    ¡°Oh.¡± Flynn said surprised, his eyesnding on me again. ¡°You can fly with me.¡±

    ¡°Excuse me?¡± I was confused what he meant by that.

    ¡°Well¡­¡± he exined, when he saw the confused expression on my face, ¡°I need to meet a business associate in Barcelona this weekend, so I was thinking maybe you can fly with me.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s a great idea!¡± Ximena eximed, too happy for my liking. ¡°You can save money on a ticket.¡±

    I shook my head. That¡¯s so not going to happen. ¡°No, I don¡¯t think it¡¯s a good idea.¡±

    ¡°What do you mean not a good idea?¡± Ximena asked bewildered. ¡°This is the best idea Hun, you don¡¯t have to spend money on a ticket and you¡¯ll also have my annoying brother with you.¡±

    ¡°Hey, I¡¯m not annoying, little brat.¡± Flynn huffed. Ximena turned her head towards him and red.

    ¡°Did you just call me brat?¡± She put her hands on her waist and shot him a deadly re.

    ¡°Oh I did.¡± he answered back sassily. I tried to hold back myugh. Flynn and sass is so cute.

    ¡°Don¡¯t sass me, you dickhead.¡±

    ¡°This dickhead is your beloved brother.¡±

    ¡°Beloved brother my ass.¡±

 99

    ¡°Okay guys, siblings fight is for home. You can go all WWE on each other for all I care.¡± I interrupted their oh-so-wonderful conversation. I was not feeling to listen to their endless insults towards each other.

    Ximenaughed. ¡°Oh remember Flynn, when I pushed you down the stairs when you were six. Hrious!¡±

    ¡°My leg was in a cast for a month, what was so hrious about that?¡±

    ¡°Okay guys. Seriously stop it¡± I said in a huff. ¡°Anyway, we were talking about Barcelona and my answer is still no.¡±

    ¡°Come on.¡± Ximena pouted. ¡°Think about how much money you can save.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t want to be a burden to anyone.¡±

    ¡°Who says you¡¯re a burden? I offered you; it¡¯s not the other way around.¡± Flynn said reluctantly.

    ¡°But still.¡± I protested.

    ¡°Oh please, stop overthinking Jill.¡± Ximena said, pushing a strand of hair away from her face.

    I let out a frustrated groan as I was silently thinking if this was a good idea. Even though it wasn¡¯t there was no way I could talk this idea out of their heads.

    ¡°Fine, so Friday morning?¡±

    Flynn¡¯s face lit up and he nodded. ¡°Yeah, I¡¯ll send a driver for you.¡±

    ¡°I can drive myself Vasilios.¡±

    He chuckled. ¡°I know you can, but where do you want to leave your car?¡±

    I haven¡¯t thought of that. ¡°Okay, send me a driver then. What time?¡±

    ¡°Ten in the morning.¡±

    ¡°Okay good.¡±N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.

    ¡°That¡¯s settled then, so big brother why are you here again?¡± Ximena asked with her hands on her hips.

    ¡°I just wanted to hand you this.¡± He gave her a stack of papers. ¡°Go through them, you might find it interesting.¡±

    Ximena nodded as she eyed the huge stack of papers Flynn shoved in her face. ¡°And why couldn¡¯t you send someone to deliver these to me?¡±

    ¡°I just came from a meeting and happen to pass your workce, so why not stop and pay my little sister a visit on my way back.¡± He said, giving her a cheesy grin.

    She shook her head like she didn¡¯t want to believe him. ¡°Excuses, excuses.¡±

    ¡°Hey, you have to admit those are valid excuses. Anyway, I need to go now. I will see you Friday Jill.¡± He gave me a wink and excited the office.

    ¡°So¡­¡± Ximena said when Flynn closed the door behind him; I¡¯m pretty sure she saw the wink.

    ¡°What¡¯s going on between you and my brother?¡±

    ¡­¡­¡­..

    Jill Malik P. O. V

    ¡°Do you need anything else Miss Malik?¡± the flight attendant with bright red lipstick asked.

    ¡°No, thank you very much.¡± I replied as I watch her taking the tes of my table. I just had a deliciously unhealthy breakfast. Pancakes with a lot of syrup and whip cream.

    ¡°Oh well, if you need anything else don¡¯t hesitate to call me over.¡±

    I smiled sincerely at her. ¡°I will not.¡±

    ¡°Enjoy the rest of the flight.¡± She said and walked back to the kitchen.

    I pulled out myptop and decided to finish my work before I arrive in Barcelona. I still had five hours to go.

    This morning Flynn had send a limo to pick me up even though I told him to just send a regr car. But no, he had to send a freaking limo. How extra can someone be? Everyone who sat in the lobby stared outside, wondering which celebrity arrived.

    Sadly I disappointed them when I walked out of the elevator in my sweatpants and crop top, as I pulled my suitcases behind me. The driver, who was standing casually at the counter talking to the receptionist, just watched me struggle as I made my way outside. I don¡¯t think he knew that I was the one he was supposed to pick up. He finally realized it when I was opening the door of the limo and start stuffing my stuff inside.

    To say he was shocked was just an understatement. I couldn¡¯t me the poor man too, I looked like crap anyway.

    First of all I woke upte and second of all I got my period which meant cramps. I don¡¯t get cramps often, but when I do they are the worse.

    I shook my head and focused back on my work. I don¡¯t know for how long I had work, because a cough stopped me from typing. I looked up tiredly and saw the flight attendant hovering over me.

    ¡°Yes?¡±

    ¡°Miss Malik, Mr. Vasilios wishes to see you¡± she said politely.

    ¡°Why?¡± I asked. Since I stepped into the ne I haven¡¯t seen him. When I got out of the limo I saw him quickly disappearing in the ne. The flight attendant ¨C who showed me my seat and store my suitcases-, told me that he didn¡¯t want to be disturbed.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know the answer on that ma¡¯am. He¡¯s at the back of the ne.¡±

    I nodded as I closed myptop. ¡°I¡¯ll be there in a minute.¡±

    ¡°Ok, I will tell him.¡± with that she walked back where Flynn was sitting.

    I stood up and made my way towards the back of the ne. On my way there the flight attendant passed me and gave me a small smile.

    In the far back Flynn was sitting casually with his legs on the other seat, his gaze focusing on hisptop. ¡°Why did you call me?¡± I asked as I stood in front of him.

    He beckoned me to sit next to him. I hesitated which made him look up to me. ¡°No funny business.¡± he grumbled when he saw that I was hesitating to sit next to him.

    I sighed as I took a seat. I looked at hisptop to see what he was looking at.

    Suits.

    He was looking at suits. ¡°I¡¯m confused. I don¡¯t know which one to pick.¡± he groaned and looked at me, ¡°Can you help me choose?¡±

    ¡°Do I look like a stylist to you?¡±

    He scanned my outfit up and down. ¡°Definitely not. Those sweatpants don¡¯t match with the crop top, but you can help me with this right?¡±

    I rolled my eyes at him. If I can¡¯t even dress myself up how does he expect me to dress him up? ¡°Why don¡¯t you call Chase, he knows better.¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s at a meeting. Come on Jill, help me out of this.¡±

    I sighed and looked at the suits. They all looked the same, I don¡¯t see the problem. ¡°They all look the same.¡± I said annoyed, ¡°Just pick one.¡±

    ¡°They don¡¯t look the same.¡± he protested, ¡°They all have their own minor details.¡±

    I narrowed my eyes and brought my face closer to the screen and I still can¡¯t see a difference. ¡°There¡¯s not.¡±

    ¡°There is. I thought girls were the one who could spot a difference even when there¡¯s no difference.¡±

    ¡°Well, I¡¯m sorry that I failed being a girl.¡±

    Heughed at that. ¡°Nah, you¡¯re not a failure. Just different.¡±

    I rolled my eyes. ¡°Of course.¡±

    ¡°So¡­¡±

    ¡°So what?¡±

    ¡°Which one of them should I buy?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know, either one is fine by me.¡±

    ¡°The dark blue or the ck one.¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s no dark blue, they are all ck.¡± I said as I fixed my eyes back on the screen.

    ¡°No, that one¨C¡± he pointed at the center of the screen, ¡°Is a dark blue one.¡±

    ¡°No, it¡¯s ck.¡± That cannot be dark blue, it¡¯s ck.

    ¡°Do you want to see?¡± He clicked on it and the details of the suit came up. Dark blue was written in bold letters.

    I huffed. ¡°You proved your point can I go back now?¡±

    ¡°No, you haven¡¯t told me which one to pick.¡±

    ¡°Flynn you¡¯re capable of picking your own clothes.¡±

    ¡°I want my pudding to do it for me.¡± he whined.

    I scrunched my nose up. ¡°Stop being so whiny geez, you¡¯re a freaking CEO, richest man in whole America and here you are acting like a toddler.¡±

    ¡°Choose for me Jill!¡± he sighed, ¡°God I hate when my assistant isn¡¯t with me.¡±

    ¡°Would you be lost without him?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m already lost here pudding.¡±

    I chuckled. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you bring him along?¡±

    ¡°Well.. uhm he has work to do over there.. uhm in thepany.¡±

    I furrowed my brows. That doesn¡¯t make sense; there were so many people in thepany who could do it. ¡°I¡¯m pretty sure there were other people there who could do it.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t trust them.¡±

    ¡°Oh.¡±

    ¡°Yeah, so which one.¡±

    I internally groaned before answering him. ¡°The first one from the top.¡±

    ¡°This one?¡± he asked pointing with the arrow of his mouse.

    I nodded. ¡°Yup that one.¡±

    ¡°Looks good.¡±

    ¡°Of course who picked it?¡± I sniggered.

    ¡°Stop ttering yourself.¡± he clicked the buy button and then he looked at me. ¡°Have you already eaten?¡±

    ¡°Yep, have you?¡±

    He nodded his head. ¡°Yes, I did. Do you want champagne?¡±

    I shook my head. ¡°Don¡¯t you think it¡¯s too early for champagne?¡±

    ¡°Of course not, are you sure you don¡¯t want it?¡±

    ¡°Nope, but I¡¯m craving chocte.¡± I said in all honesty. When I¡¯m on my period I¡¯m always craving chocte and this morning I forgot to bring a Milky Way with me.

    ¡°What brand of chocte?¡± he asked.

    ¡°Dfee.¡± I joked. Dfee is one of the most luxurious chocte brands in the world and I doubt that he will have that, but I can¡¯t help messing with him.

    ¡°We¡¯re going for the expensive ones aren¡¯t we?¡± he teased.

    I shrugged. ¡°I did choose a suit for you which probably cost over $50K and I¡¯m pretty sure you will only wear it once.¡±

    ¡°That is¡­ true.¡± heughed and motioned to the flight attendant.

    ¡°Yes, what can I do for you?¡± she asked as she approached us. That¡¯s when I noticed her nametag.

    Allison.

    ¡°A ss of champagne for me and a box of Dfee chocte for Miss Malik.¡±

    When Allison left I look wide eyed at Flynn. ¡°You¡¯re kidding right?¡±

    ¡°What?¡± he asked clearly confused.

    ¡°About the Dfee choctes. You don¡¯t have it.¡±

    ¡°What makes you think I won¡¯t have that?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know, maybe because it¡¯s so fucking expensive.¡±

    Flynnughed. ¡°Oh really, I make that money every fifteen minutes.¡±

    I facepalmed myself.

    Right.

    He¡¯s a billionaire.

    ¡°I keep forgetting that you¡¯re a CEO.¡±

    ¡°And why is that?¡±

    ¡°Because sometimes you¡¯re so whiny.¡±

    His lips twitched in amusement.

    ¡°Mr Vasilios here¡¯s your drink and a box of Dfee chocte for you Miss Malik.¡± Allison said as she ced the chocte box on myp.

    ¡°Is there anything else I can do?¡±

    Flynn waved his hand in dismissal. ¡°This is all, thank you Allison.¡±

    Allison nodded curtly and walked away. I stared at awe at the box in my hands. It¡¯s so pretty. ¡°I can¡¯t believe I will taste one of the most expensive choctes in the world.¡± I muttered as I opened the box.

    ¡°They are delicious too.¡± Flynn butted in.

    ¡°Have you already taste them?¡±

    ¡°Of course, it¡¯s no big deal for me.¡±

    The box opened and I was greeted by delicious looking chocte covered in edible 24-karat gold kes. I picked one and took a bite of it. I moaned as it melted on my tongue leaving an unforgettable taste behind.

    ¡°So good.¡± I nced at Flynn and he was staring amused at me.

    ¡°What?¡± I asked, do I have chocte on my face?

    ¡°Nothing, you just look really cute when you moan. I only wished I was in your mouth not chocte.¡±

    ¡°Perv.¡± I shoved him lightly to the side.

    In the few weeks I know him I got used to his inappropriate jokes. He usually make them with Rodrigo, but I guess I¡¯m now also on his ¡®people I can make inappropriate jokes with¡¯ list.

    ¡°Do you want some?¡±

    He shook his head. ¡°Nope thank you, I already ate Froyo this morning.¡±

    After I had finished the choctes, Flynn and I started a conversation about school and business. He told me about his experience at Harvard, how he was nerdy and how he always stayed out of trouble.

    And now he became trouble himself.

    He told me that he secretly didn¡¯t want to major in Business administration and instead he wanted to go to Juilliard and major in ywriting.

    ¡°But I couldn¡¯t do that, because I don¡¯t want to hand thepany over to some stranger. I rather have that it stays in the family.¡± he said when I asked why he didn¡¯t go with the idea of studying at Juilliard.

    Then he asked about me. I told him that I went to school in Barcelona and I lived with my aunt. I got a fully funded schrship to Columbia University and I was supposed to go back after I graduated, but his sister gave me a well-paid job so that¡¯s why I stayed.

    ¡°You stay with that chick named Reina right?¡± he asked.

    I nodded, wondering why he asked. ¡°Yes, why?¡±

    ¡°She¡¯s with Luca Rossi?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not sure. She didn¡¯t confirm yet if they are back together.¡±

    ¡°Back together?¡±

    ¡°Yep, they were together in college, but broke up.¡±

    ¡°Oh. Makes sense, that guy waspletely lost without her.¡±

    ¡°You know him?¡±

    ¡°Yes, a couple of months ago I met him at the billionaire club meeting and he was constantly talking about this girl named Reina.¡±

    ¡°Well, he did try to get back to her in college but she ignored him. I never really liked him, but I guess he¡¯s changed now.¡±

    ¡°Oh yeah he changed big time. Your friend has him wrapped around her finger.¡±

    Iughed at that. We kept talking for a while, when I started to get tired. My eyes started to get heavy and Flynn noticed that.

    ¡°Here.¡± he said as he wrapped his arms around my waist and pulled me closer to him. I didn¡¯t have the energy to resist him anymore and I just let it be. It felt better like this.

    ¡°Sleep a little.¡± he whispered before I closed my eyes and darkness consumed me.

    ¡­¡­.

    I fluttered my eyshes open and saw that I wasn¡¯t in a ne anymore. In fact I was now in a car.

    ¡°Well hello there sleeping beauty.¡± A voice said. I looked up and a pair of ocean blue eyes met mine.

 100

    ¡°Are we already in Barcelona?¡± I croaked.

    Flynn nodded. ¡°Yes we are, you had been sleeping for three hours straight and you didn¡¯t even wake up when the ne touched down.¡±

    I smiled sheepishly at him. ¡°Guess I was too tired.¡±

    ¡°I figured, that¡¯s why I let you sleep. What¡¯s your aunt address?¡±

    I took out my phone and showed him the address. He leaned forward to give the address to the driver.

    I looked outside and saw all the familiar ces. ces where I used to hangout. It has been so long that I¡¯ve been back here.

    Barcelona. My hometown.

    And still it wasn¡¯t really home. I wasn¡¯t born here. I was raised here for as long as I can remember. I let out a huge sigh. Coming back here, brought back so many memories. Happy and sad ones.

    I can¡¯t wait to see Aunt Lydia and Mn after two years.

    Oh shit!

    I haven¡¯t told Flynn about Mn. What if he will freak out? Should I tell him?

    Questions were floating in my head.

    I looked over at him and he was also staring outside deep in thoughts. My heart beat faster and I hoped Flynn wouldn¡¯t get out of the car. I hope he will just let the driver bring in my luggage. I don¡¯t want to tell him about Mn just yet.

    Maybeter. Maybe when we go back.

    After a few minutes of driving we finally stopped at a familiar white house.

    Home.

    I stepped out of the car and breathed in the fresh air. It feels so good to finally be home. When I saw Flynn stepping out of the car I hurriedly ran towards him.

    ¡°You don¡¯t have toe out you know. I mean thanks for bringing me here.¡± I hastily said.

    He chuckled. ¡°Of course I wille out and say Hi to your aunt. I¡¯m not that rude pudding.¡± He walked to the back of the car and helped the driver to bring my luggage inside.

    We walked towards the main door and before I could knock, the door swung open revealing my aunt. She still looks the same only with a little bit more wrinkles. No doubt Mn gave her that.

    ¡°Tia!¡± I eximed and hugged her tightly. I have missed her so much.

    ¡°Jill! Finally you¡¯re here.¡± she sobbed as she hugged me tighter.

    ¡°Don¡¯t cry, I¡¯m here.¡± I let go of her and rubbed her back softly. ¡°How have you been? You still look so young.¡±

    She yfully shoved me. ¡°Oh shut up, you know I¡¯m getting older day by day.¡±

    I heard a cough from behind me and realized that Flynn was still here.

    ¡°I want you to meet someone Tia.¡± I said and stepped aside so Flynn could step forward.

    ¡°Is that your novio? She asked, her eyes glimmering.

    ¡°What, no. We¡¯re just amigos.¡± I said.

    She looked at me suspiciously but then extended her hand to Flynn. ¡°I¡¯m Lydia, nice to meet you young man.¡±

    ¡°The pleasure is mine, I¡¯m Flynn.¡±

    ¡°Wee to Barcelona, Are you going to stay here?¡±

    ¡°Oh no, I¡¯ll stay at my hotel.¡±

    ¡°But why? There¡¯s enough room here. Jill why haven¡¯t you told him.¡±

    ¡°No, it¡¯s okay. I have a meeting tomorrow. It will be easier for me to stay in the hotel where the meeting is being held.¡±

    ¡°Oh, why don¡¯t you stay for din¨C?¡±

    I interrupted aunt Lydia. I should have whispered to her that Flynn still doesn¡¯t know about Mn. ¡°It¡¯s okay Tia, Flynn is probably really tired and wants to go home and take a shower. Right Flynn?¡± I asked raising my eyebrows as I literally tell him to go away with my eyes.

    ¡°Uh- yeah uhmm.. I should get going. Uhm nice to meet you Lydia.¡±

    Aunt Lydia smiled at him. ¡°Nice to meet you too, you should visit again before you leave.¡±

    Flynn gave her a sincere smile. ¡°I will.¡±

    Flynn motioned his driver that it¡¯s time to leave but before he could turn around to open the door I heard footsteps behind me.

    ¡°Mommy.¡±

    Flynn Vasilios P. O. V

    I stood frozen in shock as I watch the little boy running towards Jill. He looked so happy at seeing her.

    Jill squatted down and hugged him tightly. ¡°My baby.¡± she said happily as she hugged the little boy. He buried his face in Jill¡¯s neck and kissed her on both of her cheeks.

    My baby?

    Did she have a baby?

    The boy didn¡¯t look older than six years. He had a huge smile stered on his face when Jill whispered something in his ear.

    Is he mine?

    It can¡¯t be, the little boy had curly ck hair, neither me or Jill had curly ck hair. He looked like an arab boy, but I could be wrong. He could be italian or spaniard.

    I snapped out of my thoughts when Jill turned around and faced me with the little boy in her arms. ¡°This is my friend, Flynn. Will you say hi?¡± she whispered to the little boy. He nodded and looked at me from under his thick ck eyshes. His eyes were a dark shade of brown.

    He is definitely not mine.

    Was Jill pregnant six years ago and is that why she was so upset that night? And where¡¯s the father? I had so many question and I was mad that Jill didn¡¯t inform me about him.

    ¡°Hi Flynn.¡± the little boy whispered shyly. I shed him a smile and pinched his cheeks. ¡°Hey buddy, everything good?¡±

    He nodded and his eyes twinkled from excitement. I can see that he really loved Jill. ¡°Yes, mommy is home. I missed mommy.¡±

    Mommy, he called Jill mommy.

    There¡¯s no doubt he¡¯s her son. Even though he doesn¡¯t look like Jill, maybe he had the features of his father. But where the fucking hell is the father? I remembered that Jill said she only lived with her Aunt.

    Jill probably saw all the confusion on my face, because she gave the little boy back to her aunt and send them to the living room to wait for her. Once they left, she looked up at me. Hell yea, I needed answers.

    ¡°I should have told you about Mn.¡± she mumbled softly.

    So she remembered me. She remembered the one night stand in Mn.

    My heart almost jumped out of my chest. It was racing so fast I was afraid it would leave my chest. ¡°So you remembered?¡± I choked out after a while, trying to hide my excitement.

    ¡°Remembered?¡±

    ¡°Yes, about Mn?¡±

    She nodded. ¡°Yes, I can remember it like yesterday.¡±

    Dammit, this girl knew all along that I was her one night stand and she didn¡¯t say anything. My heart suddenly stopped.

    What if she didn¡¯t love me back? Is that the reason why she didn¡¯t bring the one night stand up?

    Shit.

    I haven¡¯t thought of that.

    ¡°It¡¯s a long,plicated story.¡± she sighed avoiding eye contact.

    I tilted her chin up so she could look up at me. Her blue-green eyes looked tired, but at same time I saw a sign of relieve. ¡°I have all night, pudding.¡±

    ¡°Well, I haven¡¯t seen my family in two years. Maybe we can meet up for lunch tomorrow?¡± she suggested.

    I have a meeting at lunch tomorrow, so that wouldn¡¯t work. ¡°I can¡¯t, I have a meeting. What about dinner?¡±

    ¡°Sounds good to me, what time?¡±

    ¡°I will pick you up at eight.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s great, uhm so I guess you want to go to your hotel now? Thanks again.¡±

    ¡°My pleasure pudding.¡± I gave her a hug, before motioning to my driver that it was time to go.

    ¡°Be safe.¡± she whispered before I opened the main door.

    ¡°Are you looking out for me pudding?¡± I teased as I hear the concern in her voice. It¡¯s cute.

    She shrugged. ¡°It¡¯s just something I always say.¡±

    ¡°Well, you don¡¯t need to worry. My driver is not nning to kill me anytime soon.¡± I gave her a wink and walked out towards my car.

    ¡°Mandarin Oriental.¡± I said to my driver before I stepped in the car. I had so much on my mind right now. First Jill had a son that look six years old so she must have been a couple of weeks pregnant when I had met her at the fashion show. Or maybe she discovered that night that she was pregnant.

    Was that the reason why she wanted to forget everything that night? Did her baby daddy left her? And then the fact that she remembered the one night stand in Mn. She remembered me, but why didn¡¯t she showed any emotion. Why didn¡¯t she showed any affection towards me? She is so damn good in acting, I should have give her an oscar. I massaged my head. I felt a headacheing up.

    So many question I want to ask, so many answers I need.

    And the only person who can answer me is the girl that stole my heart from the first time Iid eyes on her.

    ¡­¡­.

    Jill Malik P. O. V

    I threw a bowl of chicken in therge frying pan as I continued to chop the onions. Chicken Costa Brava was my favorite food and probably the only dish I could make.

    ¡°So, you haven¡¯t told your novio about Mn?¡± Aunt Lydia asked as she stood next to me and sprinkled salt in the pineapple juice. Her hair was tied in a tight knot on top of her head, I was afraid her scalp woulde off.

    I shook my head. ¡°He¡¯s not my boyfriend Tia and I didn¡¯t know he would get out of the car otherwise I would have told him.¡±

    The only reason I didn¡¯t want to tell Flynn about Mn was because he will ask so many questions. And I don¡¯t know if I could answer them without bursting out in tears.

    ¡°He will ask so many questions Tia.¡±

    Aunt Lydia shook her head in disapproval. ¡°I¡¯m pretty sure he will. But I think you¡¯re ready to answer them aren¡¯t you carina?¡± She wiped her hands on her apron and waited for my answer.

    ¡°Yes, I am. It has been six years already.¡±

    Aunt Lydia smiled at my answer. ¡°Good, because he deserves to know. He looked really confused when he saw Mn. And Oh have I told you that Larissa visited me during christmasst year?¡±

    I snapped my head at her in surprise when she mentioned Larissa¡¯s name. ¡°Really?¡± I asked happily. I¡¯m so d she could finally visit her home town without getting shbacks about her father, Uncle David.

    ¡°Yeah, we spent Christmas together with Mn. I wished you were here.¡±

    I sighed as I threw the onions and garlic in the pan. ¡°I wished that too, I was so busy with finals.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s okay, I hope you can make it this year though.¡± Aunt Lydia threw some tomatoes, olives and salsa in the pan and poured the pineapple juice before putting the lid on it.

    ¡°Mommy.¡± I felt someone tugging on the bottom of my shirt. I looked down and saw my little rayo de sol.

    ¡°Yes, mi amor.¡± I cooed as I picked him up.

    I put him on the kitchen counter and watched what he was taking out of his pocket. It was his school report. I opened it and a smile crept on my face. ¡°These are really good grades amor.¡±

    ¡°Yes mommy, can we go get ice cream after dinner?¡± he asked sweetly. Oh god, it¡¯s so hard to say no to his sweet voice.

    Iughed softly and kissed him on his nose. ¡°Well, it¡¯s toote to get ice cream now. What about tomorrow?¡±

    He nodded eagerly. ¡°Yes, muchas gracias.¡±

    I was so happy he was learning spanish. Mn was enrolled in a private school where they teach in english. It was quite expensive, but I want to give him the best of the best, because he deserves it. At home Aunt Lydia teaches him to speak spanish and it was so cute if he did.

    ¡°De nada, but now I have to finish dinner okay? Do you want to wait in the living room with Tia, until I said dinner¡¯s ready?.¡±

    He nodded and jumped off the kitchen counter and immediately ran to the living room. I did the final touches on dinner and started to set the table. After fifteen minutes I called that dinner was ready.

    ¡°Smells so good, right Mn?¡± Aunt Lydia said as she came into the kitchen followed by Mn.

    ¡°Mommy is a good cook.¡±

    ¡°Aw, you wound me amor, I¡¯m not a good cook?¡± Aunt Lydia asked, pretending she was hurt.

    ¡°I love your churros.¡± Mn shrugged.

    Iughed as I scooped rice and chicken on their te. We prayed and had dinner.

    During dinner we talked about Mn¡¯s uing birthday party, which would be held on Sunday. It would not be a grand birthday party. Only Mn¡¯s friends and Larissa were invited. I told Aunt Lydia about my life in New york, my new job, and how I was able to send her money every month. In turn she told me about Mn, her job as a frencer, and Larissa.

    I haven¡¯t seen Larissa since that day in Mn, six years ago. She had called me a couple of times, but when I changed numbers we lost touch. asionally I saw her in tabloids of beauty magazines. She became a really well known model in France and Italy.

    After dinner Aunt Lydia offered to do the dishes and told me to put Mn in bed.

    ¡°Mommy, I¡¯m done with brushing my teeth.¡± he said as he showed me his set of perfectly white teeth.

    ¡°Good boy, now go to bed so I can turn the lights off.¡± I walked towards his nightmp and turned it on. I tugged him in and gave him a goodnight kiss before leaving his room.

    ¡°Mommy.¡± he whispered as he held my hand.

    ¡°Can you tell me the story of my other mommy and daddy?¡±

    Jill Malik P. O. V

    ¡°Did you had fun mi amor?¡± I asked Mn as we walked back home from the park. The park was crowded with parents and their kids. Mn wanted to stay longer, but it was almost seven at night and I needed to get home and get ready to go to dinner with Flynn.

    ¡°Yes mommy.¡± he licked his ice cream and then looked up at me with cream all over his upper lip and nose.

    I chuckled at the sight and wiped the cream away with my thumb. ¡°Now that¡¯s better.¡±

    ¡°Are you going to have dinner with us tonight too mommy?¡± he asked, holding my pinky finger.

    ¡°No, I¡¯m going to have dinner with Flynn.¡±

    ¡°Your boyfriend?¡±

    My eyes widened as he said that. ¡°No, he¡¯s just a friend.¡±

    ¡°So your friend boy?¡±

    I looked at him inplete shock. He¡¯s too smart for his own good.

    ¡°Well yeah kinda, he¡¯s just a friend amor.¡± I ruffled his hair and identally also dipped his face in the ice cream.

    ¡°Mommy!¡± he yelped and looked up at me with ice cream covered all over his face. ¡°Look what you did.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡± I chuckled and wiped the cream from his nose and licked it. ¡°Mmh, that taste good.¡±

    We arrived home and Aunt Lydia was already waiting for us on the patio. ¡°Well well, look who we have here ice cream face.¡± She said as she tickled Mn.

    ¡°Tia¡­¡± he giggled, ¡°Stop it, my cone will fall.¡±

    ¡°Did you had fun?¡± Aunt Lydia asked.

    Mn nodded. ¡°Yes, we went to the park and then afterwards mommy bought me ice cream.¡±

    ¡°Did you told mommy what your favorite vor is?¡±

    ¡°Mommy knew my favorite vor.¡±

    I nodded. ¡°Chocte chip cookie.¡±

    Aunt Lydia looked up at me in surprise. ¡°You remembered.¡± she whispered.

    ¡°Of course I remember every little thing about my not so little boy.¡± Iughed and pinched his cheeks.

    We walked inside and aunt Lydia went to give Mn a bath so I could get ready for my dinner with Flynn.

    He didn¡¯t tell me if it would be a fancy dinner or just a casual one and I had a hard time choosing what to wear. When I saw that I only had fifteen minutes before Flynn arrived I grabbed the first dress that I think would look presentable. It was a red high low dress with straps. Reina bought this for me when we went to a party two years ago. I slipped on the dress and it was a little snug on the breast department, but nheless it still looked pretty on me. I slipped on my nude three-inch heels that I¡¯d manage to walk in wlessly without tripping since I worked for Ximena.

    Number one rule in Ximena¡¯spany: Heels are a girl¡¯s best friend. I applied a minimum of makeup and curled the ends of my hair.

    ¡°Mommy, you are so pretty.¡± a cute boyish voice came from behind me. I turned around and saw Mn in his spiderman pajamas.

    ¡°Thank you mi amor.¡± I walked over to him and kissed him on his forehead. He smelled so fresh out of the shower.

    ¡°Did you already have dinner?¡±

    He shook his head. ¡°Nope, Tia is still cooking.¡±

    I grabbed my purse and walked with Mn to the kitchen. The smell ofsagna filled in the small kitchen.

    ¡°Mmm, this smells delicious.¡± I murmured as my mouth started to water.

    ¡°You look gorgeous carina.¡± Aunt Lydia hushed as she turned around from the stove. ¡°Are you sure he isn¡¯t your novio?¡±

    I shook my head andughed. ¡°I¡¯m positive he¡¯s not.¡±

    I was about to help Aunt Lydia to set the table, when there was a knock on the door.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°I think it¡¯s Flynn. I should go now.¡± I said and went to open the front door.

    Aunt Lydia and Mn followed behind me. I opened the door and Flynn was standing there dressed in a sharp ck tuxedo with a bouquet of roses. ¡°Hey.¡± he greeted smiling his eyes trailing over my body. ¡°You look beautiful.¡±

    ¡°Thanks.¡± I replied as I pushed a strand of hair to the side. He gave me a final once over before he handed me the roses. ¡°Here, these are for you.¡±

    I took the flowers out of his hands. They were beautiful and freshly picked.  ¡°Thank you, they¡¯re beautiful.¡± I murmured eyeing the beautiful red and white roses. I handed them to Aunt Lydia so she could put them in a vase and then I squatted down to Mn.

    ¡°Are you going to be a good boy when mommy¡¯s gone?¡±

    He nodded and grinned. ¡°I¡¯m always a good boy mommy.¡±

    I ruffled his hair and stood up to face Flynn who was standing there watching me inplete awe.

    ¡°Shall we?¡± he asked, holding out his hand for me to take. I ced my hand in his as we left. ¡°See youter.¡± I said to Aunt Lydia and Mn before I closed the door behind me.

    We walked towards the car and he opened the door for me. ¡°Chivalry is not dead.¡± I joked. He just rolled his eyes as smiled silently. ¡°Of course not pudding.¡±

 101

    ¡°So, how did the meeting went?¡± I asked, trying to make the car ride a little less awkward. ¡°It went great, how was your day?¡± he asked his eyes fixed on the road. ¡°It was fun, Aunt Lydia and I had a lot of catching up to do.¡±

    He nodded, but didn¡¯t say anything.

    ¡°So where are we going?¡±

    ¡°We¡¯re going to the Cinc sentits restaurant, one of my favorites.¡± he replied. ¡°Have you been there before?¡±

    I shook my head. ¡°Nope.¡±

    After a couple of minutes we arrived at the restaurant. He parked his car and then got out of his seat to open my door.

    What a gentleman.

    I gave him a small smile and then we walked inside the restaurant. He wrapped his arms around my waist and squashed me to his side.

    ¡°As long as you¡¯re with me I don¡¯t want any other man staring at you.¡± he whispered in my ear sending shivers down my spine.

    ¡°This is not a date Vasilios.¡± I whispered back shakily.

    ¡°Date or no date, I don¡¯t like creepy men staring at mydy.¡± he chuckled possessively.

    I pinched him softly on his side and he winced, but kept a straight face because the waiters noticed us. They started to make their way towards us and judging by the expression on their face, they knew Flynn.

    ¡°Mr. Vasilios.¡± one of them said. ¡°Wee back.¡± Then he looked over at me. ¡°I see, you brought ady with you.¡±

    ¡°Good evening Carlos, I hope there¡¯s a table for me and thedy.¡±

    Carlos nodded. ¡°Yes, of course.. Follow me.¡± he said and escorted us to our table.

    We sat down and he gave us the menus. ¡°I wille back to take your orderter.¡± he said and walked away.

    ¡°Do you want to order the seven course?¡± Flynn asked without looking at the menu.

    ¡°Isn¡¯t that too much?¡± I was hungry, but also not that hungry.

    ¡°Nothing is too much for you pudding.¡±

    ¡°Is this a date in disguise?¡± I asked jokingly as I put the menu down.

    Heughed heartily and took my hand in his. ¡°Maybe.¡± he replied winking and kissed my knuckles.

    I gasped as my eyes widened. ¡°You sneaky bastard !¡±

    This time heughed louder and shook his head. ¡°Calm down pudding, it¡¯s just dinner. So do you want the seven course?¡±

    I nodded, I¡¯m not really picky about food

    He motioned to the waiter that we were ready to order. The waiter hurriedly walked towards us and got out his notepad. ¡°What will it be?¡±

    ¡°The seven course meal and the most expensive wine you have.¡± The waiter scribbled something on the notepad and then looked up again. ¡°Something else?¡±

    Flynn shook his head and the waiter walked away. ¡°Did I already told you that you look beautiful?¡± Flynn asked when the waiter left.

    I blushed. ¡°You did Vasilios.¡±

    He chuckled lightly. ¡°So, about Mn huh.¡±

    I gulped, here we go. ¡°Uhm yeah about that. I¡¯m sorry I didn¡¯t tell you about him earlier.¡±

    ¡°Him?¡±

    ¡°Yeah, Mn right. My son.¡± I rified, air quoting son.

    ¡°What?¡± Flynn asked confused.

    ¡°That¡¯s what you want to know right. About Mn.¡±

    ¡°Yes, as in Mn the city.¡±

    This time I was the one that look confused at him. ¡°What? No, as in Mn the little boy who calls me mom.¡±

    ¡°His name is Mn?¡± he asked astonished.

    ¡°I thought you had figured that out.¡±

    ¡°No, I thought you were talking about the city Mn.¡±

    I shook my head, what the hell? ¡°No, I was talking about my son,  why would I talk about a city that you can easily google ?¡±

    ¡°Shit! Why did you named him after a city? I thought you were talking about the one ni¡­ Never mind. Why did you air quote son earlier?¡± he asked while shaking his head.Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.

    I sighed deeply. ¡°Because he¡¯s not my biological son.¡±

    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Flynn looked at me like a lost child.

    ¡°It¡¯s a long story¡± I muttered.

    ¡°I have all night pudding, but do you want to talk about it before or after dinner?¡±

    I thought about it for a while. ¡°After.¡± I said.

    He nodded. ¡°Great choice, because dinner is here.¡±

    The waiter came back with our dinner and wine. He poured wine in our sses and served us our food. It all looked so good and smelled so delicious.

    After dinner I started the story. I let the memories that I stored at the back of my heade back to life. All these years I sessfully tried to forget them and today I¡¯m going to relive them again.

    It was the day I went back to Barcelona from Mn. I was driving, listening to Enrique Iglesias, when suddenly a car came on my side of the road.

    ###Chapter 11

    Drunk driver.

    That was the first thing that came into my mind. I tried to stop my car. I tried to save myself, but everything was just too fast. The headlights came closer and closer and how much I wanted to stop and avoid it, I couldn¡¯t.

    The car crashed with mine. I heard a loud screeching sound along with a painful stab on my right hand. Everything went by too fast and the next thing I knew I woke up on a hospital bed.

    Aunt Lydia sat next to me, tears streaming down her face. ¡°Carina!¡± She sobbed and wrapped her arms around me.

    From her I heard that I was unconscious for three hours. I didn¡¯t break any bones, thank god. I only had scratches on my face and a deep cut on my right hand that would heal in a couple weeks. I was lucky she said. I didn¡¯t know what she meant by that, because I felt back asleep. My whole body felt sore and tired.

    The next day the nurse came into my room to check on me and then I asked her about the people in the other car.

    ¡°They died.¡± she whispered and closed her eyes as if she¡¯s trying to process it.

    ¡°Were they drunk?¡±

    She shook her head. ¡°No, it was a couple. His wife went intobor and he was racing her to the hospital while trying to calm her down which ended up really tragic.¡±

    I gasped as I felt a jab in my heart. No way. ¡°What about the baby?¡± Is it¨C¡±

    ¡°The baby is fine. We could save him, but¡­ but his family abandoned him.¡±

    ¡°What?!¡±

    She nodded sadly. ¡°Yeah, they don¡¯t want anything to do with him. They even asked me why I didn¡¯t let him die.¡± she said bitter.

    ¡°Can I see him?¡±

    ¡°Of course.¡± She showed me the way to the baby department. ¡°It¡¯s baby number thirteen. He doesn¡¯t have a name yet.¡±

    I walked up to him. He was so small, so peaceful. Sometimes I don¡¯t even understand families I thought bitterly. I let out a deep sigh and went back to my room. He reminded me a lot about myself. No family.

    From that day on I visited him everyday. Even when I was already out of the hospital. I was supposed to attend college abroad, but I postponed it. I thought I lost the schrship when I told them that I couldn¡¯t attend it, but they were nice enough to make it valid until next fall.  One day I asked the nurse what will happen to him once he¡¯s healed. She told me they would put him in a orphanage. It was so heartbreaking, that I couldn¡¯t sleep for days. I know what it¡¯s like to not have a family and knowing that this little innocent boy has to go through the same thing I went through shattered my heart. I never went to an orphanage, but I don¡¯t want him to go when I know that I could do something about it.

    So I did something that I¡¯m so proud of doing. I adopted him. Well not me, but Aunt Lydia. I literally begged her to do so. After long talks, endless begging, she finally gave in. We went straight to the hospital and asked if we could adopt the baby.

    The process was easy, because the baby had literally no one. He didn¡¯t even had a name. They called him baby number thirteen.

    So we had toe up with a name.

    I chose Mn.

    That time Mn seemed to be the perfect name, because well, he wouldn¡¯t be with me if it wasn¡¯t for the ident in Mn. Now if I think about it, I wished I gave him another name because I really want to forget about the ident and all.

    I let out a huge sigh and looked at Flynn who looked really shocked.

    ¡°Wow.¡± he breathed out. ¡°So you adopted Mn to save him from the orphanage life?¡±

    I nodded. ¡°Yes, I did.¡±

    ¡°And what did you mean by I know what it feels like to not have a family.¡±

    ¡°The family from both of my parents didn¡¯t approve of their rtionship. It was a forbidden marriage. My dad was suppose to marry a jordanian woman, but he chose my mom who was a spaniard. The families cut all the ties with my parents, they didn¡¯t want to have anything to do with them.

    When I was two weeks old my parents decided to move to Barcelona with Aunt Lydia, her family. Aunt Lydia is actually not my aunt, she was a maid for my parents household. But as the saying goes blood makes you rted, loyalty makes you family. That¡¯s exactly how it is. My parents trusted Lydia with me. After all not only did the family cut all the ties with my parents, but also with me even though I don¡¯t have anything to do with it. So, Aunt Lydia, her family and I flew first to Barcelona. We moved from Jordan to Barcelona, because my parents wanted to have a fresh start. They woulde and join us two weekster, because they had some paperwork to finish. Well, they never made it to Barcelona.¡±

    ¡°What?!¡± Flynn asked shocked.

    ¡°The ne crashed on their way here.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry.¡± Flynn gasped and held my hand stroking it lightly.

    ¡°Don¡¯t be.¡±

    ¡°Do you miss them?¡±

    I shrugged indifferently. ¡°I was only two weeks old, I can¡¯t remember them. But the way how aunt Lydia tells me stories about them, I do miss them¡­ sometimes.¡±

    ¡­¡­.

    Flynn Vasilios

    Jill is full of surprises. I can¡¯t believe she adopted Mn to save him from the orphanage life.

    Then again, that¡¯s what makes her apart from all the other girls. She¡¯s unique, generous, loving. Everything that I always imagined my future wife to be.

    I thought that she wanted to talk to me about Mn, the city.

    About the one night stand.

    I was wrong. She didn¡¯t remember it. She didn¡¯t remember me. Now I was wondering if it was because of the ident?

 102

    The ident happened after the one night stand.

    After I left her, without a note. I was so dumb, because I was well aware that I didn¡¯t fuck her, but I made love to her. I thought it was just a ordinary one night stand. One that I would forget after a couple of days.

    Little did I know she would haunt my dreams from that day on. I couldn¡¯t forget her. Even after so many years, after so many flings, and so many failed rtionships, she still had my heart.

    And she don¡¯t even know it.

    I wished I was there for her. I wished I could just tell her that I was her one night stand.

    But I can¡¯t. I just can¡¯t. I can¡¯t lose her again. What if I tell her and she will run away?

    ¡°Hey.¡± Jill nudged me from the side. I looked at her and she gave me a questioning look.

    ¡°Sorry, I¡¯m zoning out.¡±

    ¡°Did I scare you?¡± she whispered. She looked so beautiful tonight. She had the kind of understated beauty. Maybe it was because she was so disarmingly unaware of her prettiness.

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°I mean with the story and all, I can¡¯t change it you know. It¡¯s part of who I am.¡±

    I squeezed her hand softly. ¡°It¡¯s the most wonderful thing you have ever done. Don¡¯t ever doubt that.¡±

    ¡°Well thank you.¡±

    ¡°Did you¡­ uhm had amnesia after the ident?¡± I asked. I was dying to know the answer.

    She shook her head. ¡°No, I was just unconscious.¡±

    ¡°Oh.¡± was all I could say. That means she did remember the one night stand. The thing is she didn¡¯t remember me. I groaned inwardly. This is getting so damn frustrating.

    ¡°Are you alright?¡± she asked worriedly.

    ¡°Yes I am, pudding.¡± I replied, kissing the back of her hand.

    She smiled and then opened the car door. ¡°Well it was a nice dinner. Thank you.¡±

    ¡°Thank you foring and uhm, telling me about Mn.¡±

    I was happy that she told me a little about her life even though she didn¡¯t had to.

    ¡°Well, speaking about Mn. Tomorrow it¡¯s his birthday. You¡¯re invited.¡±

    ¡°What time?¡± I asked, because I had a meeting in the morning.

    ¡°At noon.¡±

    I nodded. ¡°Count me in.¡±

    ¡°Well goodnight Vasilios.¡± she whispered softly, before closing the door.

    ¡°Goodnight, pudding.¡±

    Jill Malik P. O. V

    The preparations for Mn¡¯s birthday started before sunrise.

    At four in the morning Aunt Lydia was already in the kitchen making all kinds of sweets and I was helping her with it.

    Larissa would bring the cake. She would arrive in Barcelona a little bit after ten. She had to fly from Germany where she had a photoshoot.

    When Mn woke up we all sang happy birthday for him and I couldn¡¯t help but shed a tear at how long it has already been.

    Six years since the ident.

    Six years since I¡¯ve known Mn.

    Six years since my life had changed.

    I became a mommy the very first time I could hold him in my arms, and god didn¡¯t it felt good. It felt soplete and I vowed to his parents, who are watching us from heaven, that I would give him everything his heart desires. Even though we weren¡¯t rted by blood, my love for him was the only thing that matter. From my own past I have learned that you don¡¯t need to be rted by blood to be family. And Mn was family. The love I have for him is indescribable.

    I didn¡¯t know his parents, but I know what it feels like to not have a family.

    I know what it¡¯s like to be abandoned by your own blood.

    The world can be so cruel.

    ¡°Mommy, are you alright?¡± Mn asked as he smoothed the wrinkles out of my face.

    ¡°Yes, amor.¡± I smiled. ¡°Go brush your teeth ande downstairs okay, I will make breakfast.¡±

    He nodded and hurried to the bathroom. I sat on the edge of his bed and sighed. Last night he asked me again to tell him the story about his parents.

    Since the day Mn could talk, I told him the truth about his parents. I made up a sweet story about them, because I didn¡¯t know anything about them except their first names.

    Marco and Rosa. They were Italians.

    I wanted Mn to know the truth. It was easier for me to tell him from now on, instead of waiting when he¡¯s a teenager.

    I walked downstairs and saw Aunt Lydia making breakfast. Guess, I didn¡¯t have to do it anymore.

    ¡°Good morning Jill.¡± She chirped and shove me a te with pancakes, whipped cream, and strawberries.

    ¡°Mmh, this looks good. No churros today?¡±

    She pointed at the container in front of me. ¡°Churros for you and Mn.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m hungryyy!¡± Mn yelled as he ran into the kitchen, jumping on the kitchen chair. He grabbed the container with churros and was about to grab one when I snatched it from him.

    ¡°Nah-ah-ah.¡± I said sternly. ¡°First milk.¡±

    ¡°Mommy!¡± he whined, pouting his lips. Adorable, but it will not help this time.

    ¡°First milk birthday boy.¡± I repeated.

    He huffed and then looked at Aunt Lydia who gave him a ss of milk.

    ¡°Gross.¡± he gagged as he squeezed his nose with his fingers. ¡°I don¡¯t want to drink cow pee.¡±

    I almost burst outughing. God, this boy.

    ¡°It¡¯s not cow pee, it¡¯s milk.¡± I chuckled.

    He quickly drank it and shoved the ss far away from him. ¡°It¡¯s still gross. Is milk a fancy word for pee?¡±

    ¡°What? No, it¡¯s milk. Not pee. I would never let you drink pee.¡±

    ¡°Why do I need to drink Milk?¡± he asked curiously.

    ¡°Because it makes you strong and you will get muscles.¡±

    ¡°Like your friend boy?¡±

    I choked on my pancake. I coughed loudly and stared at Mn with wide eyes.

    Aunt Lydia looked amused at Mn when he said friend boy.

    ¡°Do you mean Flynn? Yes, like him and he¡¯s a friend okay not friend boy.¡± I answered after the coughing stopped.

    ¡°Okay, I want to be strong like him. Can I have a churro now?¡±

    I handed him a churro and he devoured it like he hadn¡¯t ate in days.

    After breakfast I let Mn y in the yroom as me and Aunt Lydia continued the preparations for the birthday party. I helped her make punch and tarta de queso.

    We were busy in the kitchen when we heard a knock on the door. I wiped my hands on a cloth and walked to the door to opened it.

    A beautiful woman in a blue flowery dress stood there with in her hand a delicious looking spiderman birthday cake. It took me a while to realize it was Larissa.

    ¡°Lari.¡± I whispered as tears formed in my eyes. God, I have missed her so much.

    She pulled off her sunsses and looked at me inplete shock.

    ¡°Jill.¡± she breathed out after a while. I wanted to squeeze the living daylight out of her, but she was holding Mn¡¯s birthday cake.

    ¡°Come in.¡± I let her in and closed the door.

    She hurriedly put the birthday cake on the closest table and then turned around and hugged me¡­ More like tackled me down. I fell on my butt as she tightly hugged me.

    ¡°I¡¯ve missed you so much.¡± she cried out.

    ¡°God, I¡¯ve missed you too !¡±

    I can¡¯t believe that thest time I saw her was six years ago. Every time I came to Barcelona, she was in Mn or some other country due to her work. On top of that, she still wasn¡¯t ready to visit Barcelona because it brought back memories of her father and she still had a hard time dealing with it. The first time she came back to Barcelona wasst Christmas, but that was when I couldn¡¯t make it due to so much work.

    We stayed like that for a while until someone cleared their throat.

    We looked up and Aunt Lydia looked grinning at us. ¡°Girls, girls. You need to catch upter. We have a birthday party to organize.¡±

    Larissa stood up followed by me. She gave her mom a quick kiss and walked to the kitchen with the cake. She ced the cake in the refrigerator and then turned around.

    ¡°Where¡¯s Mn?¡± she asked, holding a blue bag in her hand.

    ¡°yroom.¡± I replied.

    She nodded and walked to the yroom.

    I walked towards the living room and pulled out the decorations. It was time to decorate the backyard. I grabbed the balloons, gands, and pom poms and headed outside. I started decorating the back side of the house, the tables, and the balcony.

    When it was time to hang thest balloon I had to stand on a chair to reach the top of the pole. It was wobbly, and to make things worse I had to stand on my tippy toes to reach it.

    When I finally tied the ribbon on the nail I carefully tried to get off the chair.

    It was just my luck, that I had to lose my bnce. I squealed as I felt the chair under me disappearing.

    Shit, this will give me a broken ankle.

    I closed my eyes to hear the bone breaking sound of my ankle when I felt strong arms wrapped around my body.

    ¡°God, Pudding!¡± I heard a familiar voice. I slowly opened my eyes to see Flynn looking worried over me. ¡°You almost gave me a heart attack, don¡¯t do that.¡±

    ¡°What?¡± I breathed out shakily, ¡°Climbing on a chair?¡±

    He nodded. ¡°Yes, it¡¯s dangerous. You could have sprained your ankle.¡±

    ¡°But I didn¡¯t.¡±

    ¡°Because I saved you.¡±

    He does have a point. If he wasn¡¯t here I probably wouldn¡¯t be able to walk for two weeks.

    ¡°Thanks, but I think it¡¯s safe to let me go now.¡±

    He slowly let me go and now I turned around to get a better look at him. He was still in his suit, I guess he came straight to the party after the meeting.

    ¡°You came early.¡±

    ¡°Yeah, the meeting ended early so I decided to show up early to see if you need help.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s uhm¡­ really considerate of you.¡± I noticed.

    He nodded. ¡°Yup good thing too, because otherwise you wouldn¡¯t be able to walk for two weeks.¡±

    ¡°Mommy!¡± I heard behind Flynn. I look over his shoulder and saw Mn in a spiderman costume.

    ¡°Who bought that for you?¡± I asked, because I know that he didn¡¯t had a spiderman costume.

    ¡°Flynn did.¡± he grinned as he ran around the backyard.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.

    I looked at Flynn in surprise. ¡°How did you know he liked spiderman?¡± I asked wonderingly.

    ¡°I just happen to saw spiderman toys on the floor when I dropped you off.¡±

    Wow, he was really observant. ¡°That¡¯s really nice from you. He loves it.¡± I smiled as I looked at my little crazy boy.

    I walked back inside to help aunt Lydia bring drinks and foods outside. Flynn yed with Mn and Larissa was greeting the guests. There was not a lot, but soon more people came. Most of them were Mn¡¯s friends from school. They all had a fun time and Mn was so ecstatic to have so many people at his party.

    Flynn and Larissa met each other and I had to convince Larissa a hundred times that he wasn¡¯t my boyfriend or fuck buddy. After the hundredth time she just stopped asking me about it and started talking to one of the moms about modeling.

    When it was time to cut the cake I called everyone to gather around the table. Together we sang happy birthday for Mn. Flynn was so nice to record it while I cut the cake for Mn.

    It was a very sessful birthday party and Mn had enjoyed every second of it. At the end of the party every kid left with a fully stuffed candy bag.

    After the party Mn couldn¡¯t stopped talking about how all his friends like his costume and how they were so envious of him.

    He even wanted to sleep with the costume, but Flynn convinced him that it wasn¡¯t a good idea. I don¡¯t know what he exactly said to Mn, but the point is that he didn¡¯t fight back when Flynn pulled the zipper down of his costume.

    I showered Mn, dressed him up in his pajama and tucked him in. I softly sang a song for him, so he could drift to sleep.

    He yawned and looked at me with sleepy eyes.

    ¡°I really like your friend boy mommy.¡± he whispered before he closed his eyes and fell in a deep sleep.

    Jill Malik P. O. V

    After I put Mn to sleep I turned out the lights and quietly walked out of his room.

    I was surprised when I saw Flynn outside the door waiting for me. I thought he had already left. His hair was disheveled and he was gazing in the distance, making him look twice as hot than he already is.

    ¡°What are you still doing here?¡± I whispered, closing Mn¡¯s door behind me. I didn¡¯t want to talk loudly, because Mn is a light sleeper.

    ¡°Does he asked?¡±

    ¡°Asked what?¡± I questioned.

    ¡°About his real parents or haven¡¯t you told him yet?¡±

    ¡°Oh I did tell him.. I made up a sweet story about his parents and tell him when he asked me too. I made up most of it, because I don¡¯t know anything about his real parents except their first names. The point is that he knows that he¡¯s adopted and I will love him unconditionally no matter what.¡±

    ¡°You really are something else, do you know that Jill?¡± Flynn said, smiling. ¡°But I¡¯m d you told him at an early age. When he will grow older, he will understand this all better.¡±

    ¡°Yeah, I don¡¯t want to deal with a angry teenagerter in life when he finds out.¡± I sighed.

    Heughed.¡±True that, anyway our ne will depart at one in the afternoon.¡±

    ¡°Are you going to pick me up?¡±

    ¡°Yes I will.¡± I opened the front door to let Flynn out.

    ¡°Goodnight Vasilios and drive safe.¡± I said as I watched him walk away.

    ¡°Goodnight to you too pudding.¡± He gave me a dazzling smile, before disappearing in the car.

 103

    I closed the door and turned around to a smirking Larissa. I knew exactly what was on her mind.

    ¡°He is not my boyfriend.¡± I muttered as I walked passed her. She held my hand and quirk an eyebrow in amusement.

    ¡°Not so fast.¡± she chuckled. ¡°You need to tell me everything what happened in the past six years.¡±

    I let out a annoyed groan. This will be one hell of a long talk !

    ¡­¡­.

    ¡°Promise me you will be a good boy.¡± I hugged Mn one more time trying to hold back my tears. It was time to go back to New York. It was monday afternoon and Flynn was waiting for me outside.

    ¡°I will mommy.¡± he said bravely as he clutched aunt lydia¡¯s hand tightly. ¡°When are youing back?¡±

    ¡°Soon baby.¡± I promised, kissing him on his forehead. I stood up and faced Aunt Lydia and Larissa. We had already said our goodbyes earlier this morning.

    I hugged them one more time, before picking up my handbag.

    Last night Larissa and I had a long girls talk. We talked about everything that happened in the past six years. She told me that she lived with her boyfriend in Italy and she was currently a model for a well known italian swimwearpany.

    ¡°Visit me soon.¡± I murmured as I hugged her once again.

    ¡°I will love.¡± she whispered. I said my final goodbyes to all of them and walked outside where Flynn was waiting for me.

    ¡°Ready?¡± he asked. I nodded and stepped in the car. He sat next to me and studied me.

    ¡°Are you alright?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡± I mumbled and started spacing out. I really hate leaving Barcelona.

    I don¡¯t know how long we were driving, but when the car stopped I looked outside and it was not the airport.

    ¡°Uh, Flynn what are we doing here?¡± I asked unsurely. We were at the ca de Catalunya. Thest time I visited this ce was four years ago with Aunt Lydia and Mn.

    ¡°You don¡¯t want to go sightseeing before you leave the city, I know you miss Barcelona.¡±

    I looked at him wide eyed. How did he know? ¡°Are you for real?¡±

    ¡°Yes,e one.¡± He opened the door for me and I stepped out.

    The ca is known for its fountains and statues, the proximity to some of Barcelona¡¯s most popr attractions, and the flocks of pigeons that gather in the centre. When I was younger I loved to take pictures at the fountains and feed the pigeons.

    Flynn ced his hand around my shoulders which made me look up at him.

    ¡°May I ask why Vasilios?¡± I quirk an eyebrow, as I pointed at his hand around my shoulder.

    He just shrugged but didn¡¯t bother pulling it away. ¡°I don¡¯t want to lose you.¡± he answered simple.

    I rolled my eyes, but before I could say something my eyes spotted a tapa restaurant.

    ¡°Oh my god! Oh my god!¡± I squealed excitedly, pointing at the restaurant. ¡°Let¡¯s go get tapas.¡±

    ¡°You like those?¡±

    I nodded. ¡°You don¡¯t?¡±

    ¡°I never said I didn¡¯t pudding.¡±

    We walked towards the restaurant and a sweet olddy in a blue apron was sitting behind the counter. ¡°Can I help you dear?¡± she asked in a soft fragile voice. She looked old, probably in herte seventies. Her face and hands were wrinkled and her hair was colored ash grey, but the smile on her face was genuine and her eyes sparked kindness.

    I looked at the varieties of Tapas in the disy cab and my eyes lit up when I saw my favorites. ¡°Can I have a Tray Of Montaditos.¡± I asked, loosening myself out of Flynn¡¯s grip so I could get my tapas. ¡°You don¡¯t want tapas Vasilios?¡±

    ###Chapter 12

    ¡°Sure, Can I have a slice of chorizo pizza?¡±

    I never saw him as a pizza guy, but damn this boy was full of surprises.

    The olddy nodded and went to take a pizza for him. He was about to get his credit card, but I beat him by giving mine to the olddy.

    ¡°For both of the tapas.¡± I said and then looked at him smirking. ¡°Gotta be faster Vasilios.¡± I teased.

    He looked amused up at me, but didn¡¯t say anything. The olddy gave me my credit card back and the tapas.

    ¡°Have a nice day dear.¡± she said sweetly.

    ¡°Thank you.¡± I gave Flynn his tapa and we walked out of the shop.

    After we finished eating our tapas we had a really nice walk down to La Ram, I can remember when I used toe here with Larissa. The street restaurants here sells the most delicious foods.

    We passed the magic fountain and all the other touristic ces like the Passeig de Gracia, Gothic Quarter, and the Triomphe Arch. It was so much fun until Flynn gave some lost tourist the wrong directions. After I punched him in his stomach for the fifth time he stopped doing that and politely told the tourist that he didn¡¯t know.

    Thest thing we did was shopping. Flynn was not really fond of shopping, because he was moping around the store ring and scaring customers away. I hurriedly chose some souvenirs for Reina and Ximena and then exited the store, before the owner would kick Flynn out for scaring his customers away.

    ¡°Did you had fun?¡± Flynn asked when we returned back to his car. He gave the shopping bags to the driver, so he could put it in the trunk.

    ¡°It was a lot of fun, thanks for bringing me here.¡±

    ¡°My pleasure.¡± He motioned to the driver that we were ready to go.

    ¡°Are we going to the airport now?¡±

    He nodded. ¡°Do you need to stop somewhere else?¡±

    I shook my head. ¡°No.¡±

    We drove to the airport and when we arrived the ne was already waiting for us. I grabbed my bag and stepped out of the car. The same flight attendant waited for us.

    ¡°Good morning Miss Malik and Mr Vasilios.¡± she greeted us with a broad smile.

    ¡°Good morning Allison.¡± I greeted back. I walked inside and was about to sit on the same spot in front, but Flynn grabbed my hand and dragged me to the back.

    ¡°Sit with me.¡± was all he said.

    I plopped down next to him and let out an annoyed huff. ¡°Why Vasilios?¡±

    ¡°I need some entertainment.¡± he stated.

    I rolled my eyes. ¡°I didn¡¯t got a good night sleepst night, why would you think I would entertain you?¡±

    ¡­¡­.

    Flynn Vasilios P. O. V

    I don¡¯t know what came over me when I brought her to the ca de Catalunya.

    But her smile.

    The happy glow on her face.

    When I saw how sad she was when we left her Aunt¡¯s ce, I panicked. I don¡¯t even know why, but I felt it was my job to make her happy. So I did what any other man would do to make hisdy happy. I quickly googled ces to visit in Barcelona and ca de Catalunya popped up.

    I hated to visit ces like that. It¡¯s so crowded with a shit ton of tourists. And then, the goddamn pigeons. A million of them.

    But seeing the smile on Jill¡¯s face made everything better. The happiness in her blue-green eyes kissed away every single thing I didn¡¯t like about that ce.

    Even that disgusting pizza.

    It¡¯s scary how much I¡¯m willing to do for her. From visiting a ce I would never go to eating foods I despise.

    Only to see her happy. Only to see her smile.

    I looked at her. Her head was on my shoulder and she was humming an unfamiliar song. We were already an hour in the air. Her hair draped graciously on my shoulder and face. Every Time I breathed, a strand of hair entered my mouth.

    I was notining. I could stay like this a lifetime.

    I just needed her.

    Her scent.

    Her presence.

    Herughter.

    Her.

    All I need, All I will ever need.

    When did I be like this? Love-fucking-sick.

    I never thought I could get attached to a girl. But then Jill came along. And not like any other girl.

    No, she had toe into my life in the form of a goddamn one night stand. When I said, she was something else, I meant it.

    She was different, unique. Somethingpletely-fucking-else.

    ¡°Hey Jill.¡± I whispered softly, a strand of hair entering my mouth. h! I brought my hand to my mouth to pull away the strand of hair that was stuck on my tongue. Gross.

    This was the time. I couldn¡¯t hold this anymore.

    I needed to tell her. She needed to know the truth.

    ¡°Mmh.¡± she replied.

    ¡°I need to tell you something.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m listening.¡±

    I took a deep breath. I hope she will not run away.

    We are in the air, she can¡¯t go anywhere, unless she has a death wish I whispered to myself.

    She can¡¯t runaway from you. It was time I tell her the truth and hope she remembers me. Or hope she loves me back.

    Hoping she can give me a chance.

    Hoping she can forgive me that I had left her before she woke up.

    Without a note.

    Without saying who I was.

    What if she doesn¡¯t love me back?

    ¡°Do you remember the night in Mn?¡± I asked, closing my eyes from fear.

    I don¡¯t want to see her reaction.

    But she hadn¡¯t reacted, so I assumed she was waiting for me to continue. It was now or never.

    ¡°The one night stand? I don¡¯t know if you can remember it, but I can. I¡¯m so sorry¡­ I¡¯m so sorry that I had left you.. If I knew you wou¨C,¡±

    I opened my eyes when I heard soft snoring. My hands were sweaty as well as my forehead.

    I looked over at Jill and she was peacefully sleeping. My heart stopped for a moment.

    That¡¯s why she didn¡¯t reply, she was asleep.

    I let out a huge sigh and covered her with my jacket. My hands were still mp from my confession. Well, almost confession.

    I guess I had to wait to tell her another time.

    When she¡¯s awake.

    When she can answer the question I was burning to ask her.

    Flynn Vasilios P. O. V

    ¡°So, have you told her?¡± Rodrigo was sitting casually in front of me, his legs crossed on my table. Talk about manners.

    I red at his feet and then at him. ¡°Put your feet down!¡± I snapped. ¡°Where are your manners?¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t have any.¡± he replied, taking a sip of his martini. ¡°Like how you don¡¯t have the balls to tell Jill that you¡¯re her one night stand.¡±

    ¡°Fuck you !¡± I said through gritted teeth.

    ¡°You were with her in a goddamn ne, the only reason you didn¡¯t bring your PA was because of her and still you didn¡¯t had the balls to confess?!¡± he eximed, putting his ss roughly down on the table.

    ¡°Can you be more careful with my ssware? Those are my mom¡¯s.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t change the subject. You know that I can¡¯t see you like this anymore.¡± His eyes held anger as he was looking at me. ¡°It¡¯s time you fucking grow a pair of balls and confess to her. You¡¯re hurting yourself by keeping this a secret. Fuck!¡±

    ¡°I did confess okay, she was¡­ asleep.¡± I muttered.

    I hated to be like this. Vulnerable.

    I was a goddamn business man. Business deals, contracts, name it and I could arrange it. No hesitation. No second thoughts.

    And then there¡¯s her.

    Everything I do, everything I say around her I have to make sure It will not hurt her feelings. That she will not run away from me. I never cared about anyone¡¯s feelings, that¡¯s why I got the title womanizer right?

    But I cared about her feelings.

    And only her.

    And that from my parents.

    Oh and also that from my annoying sister.

    Always had, Always will.

    Rodrigo simpered. ¡°Really?! How do you expect for her to reply if she¡¯s asleep! You can¡¯t keep this a secret any longer¡­ You¡¯re¡­ hurting. Fuck when did I be so sentimental?¡±

    I growled inwardly, knowing that Rodrigo was right. ¡°I¡¯m fucking afraid!¡± I yelled out frustrated.

    There, I let it out.

    I was afraid.

    Afraid of losing her.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.

    Afraid that this love is only one sided.

    I have hurt myself a lot after that one night stand. I had countless one night stands with different girls.

    Blondes, brtes, redheads, etc.

    And still I couldn¡¯t get over her.

    I even turned my dear friend, Zoe, into my fuckbuddy.

    Every stupid thing I had done, was because of her.

    To forget her.

    To move on without her.

    But when I¡¯m alone, the only thing that¡¯s on my mind is her.

    Rodrigo stared at me. ¡°Afraid? For what? She¡¯s just a girl.¡±

    ¡°She¡¯s not just a girl! Dammit, she¡¯s the girl that holds my heart. She¡¯s the girl that can break it anytime she wants !¡±

    Rodrigo shook his head and was about to say something when my office door opened. ¡°Sir, you have a meeting in ten minutes.¡± Timon informed me.

    ¡°Fuck!¡± I cursed as I frantically searched for the file I needed for the meeting. The whole afternoon Jill took over my mind to the point that I had to call Rodrigo over to ¡®advise¡¯ me.

    So far, Rodrigo wasn¡¯t much of a help.

    ¡°Let me guess. You haven¡¯t prepared yet.¡± Rodrigo stood up and fixed his tie as he looked up at me with pity in his eyes.

    I let out a frustrated sigh as I grabbed the file and stand up. ¡°No, dammit. And I don¡¯t need your pity.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t pity you. It¡¯s just¡­ If Jill can do this to you.¡± He pointed with his index finger at me. ¡°She¡¯s the one. And damn I will feel sorry for you if she will leave you when she knows that you knew the truth all along.¡±

    ¡­¡­.

    Jill Malik P. O. V

    I huffed as I opened the door of my apartment.

    Thest two weeks were so exhausting, because of Ximena¡¯s eye shadow paletteunch.

    I was only absent for four days and a pile of work had been waiting for me on my desk when I returned.

    Theunch date is approaching and I was not even close being done. Not only did I had to work overtime, but I also had to workte nights at home.

    Usually I was still awake at one in the morning working. Reina being the nice friend she is stayed awake with me to make coffee and asionally throw a pillow at me when I was about to fall asleep.

    It has also been two weeks since I hadst saw Flynn. After he dropped me off from the airport, I haven¡¯t seen him since then.

    He didn¡¯t came to visit Ximena, so I think he¡¯s also busy with work. I don¡¯t know where we actually stand. He was really sweet to me in Barcelona, I would consider him a friend.

    I also feel like I know him somehow, but I don¡¯t know from where. I¡¯m pretty sure I saw him before graduation, somewhere.

    Also when he said strawberries and whiskey.

    There¡¯s only one person who had called me that.

    And I don¡¯t think Flynn is that person.

    But he can be my subconscious said.

    But he isn¡¯t. There are seven billion people in the world.

    It could be anyone.

    If it was Flynn, he would definitely tell me right?

    I walked into the kitchen and saw Reina and Luca cleaning the kitchen table. They were so adorably cute.

    This was the first time I saw Luca since graduation day.

    ¡°Hey Jill, you¡¯re early today.¡± Reina said surprised when I walked into the kitchen.

    ¡°Yeah, because I have so much work to finish at home.¡± I sighed. ¡°Hello Luca.¡±

    ¡°Hey Jill.¡± he greeted, smiling.

    Luca had changed a lot in a span of one year. He was longer, muscr, and more manly. He looked handsome. ¡°Great to see you again.¡±

 104

    ¡°Nice to see you too¡­ You changed a lot.¡± I said, giving him a side hug.

    ¡°Haha thanks. You too. You look more sophisticating.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t let your girlfriend hear that.¡± I whispered, ncing at Reina who just rolled her eyes.

    ¡°Oh don¡¯t worry, she¡¯s totally fine with it.¡± he said with a reassuring smile.

    ¡°I¡¯m fine with it, because she¡¯s my bestfriend and she has a thing for that Vasilios boy. Otherwise I wouldn¡¯t mind chopping your precious balls and flushing it down the toilet.¡± she threatened jokingly.

    ¡°Ouch, Vita Mia don¡¯t be so harsh on my boys.¡±

    ¡°And.. I don¡¯t have a thing for that Vasilios boy.¡± I added

    ¡°Keep telling yourself that honey.¡± Reina purred, wiping sauce off the table.

    ¡°What did you guys had for dinner?¡± I asked, changing the subject.

    ¡°Spaghetti by me.¡± Luca said proudly. ¡± We¡¯re just cleaning up the mess we made in your kitchen. ¡±

    ¡°I left some for you in the fridge.¡± Reina said.

    ¡°Thanks guys, I¡¯ll go change and take a shower.¡± I walked out of the kitchen and headed to my room.

    I threw my bag on the bed and sighed. I can¡¯t wait to take a long cold shower after a tiring day.

    After I was done taking a shower I walked back to the kitchen to heat up the spaghetti. Reina was in the living room watching tv.

    ¡°How was work?¡± she asked, when I joined her with a big bowl of spaghetti on myp.

    I shrugged. ¡°The usual. Tons of work, meetings, Ximena all stressed out.¡±

    ¡°I can¡¯t imagine how tired Ximena is right now. With the wedding and stuff.¡±

    I shoved a fork full of spaghetti in my mouth. It was delicious.

    ¡°ke is doing the wedding.¡± I said, after I was done chewing.

    ¡°Really? Wow she¡¯s one lucky girl. Anyway have you heard of your lovertely?¡± she asked teasingly.

    I rolled my eyes. The past two weeks she called Flynn my lover. It all started after I came home from Barcelona and she demanded that I had to tell her everything that had happened between us.

    When I told her he brought me to the ca de Catalunya, she lost it. She started screaming and jumping up and down my bed from excitement, almost breaking my antique vase on my nightstand.

    ¡°No, and he¡¯s not my lover.¡±

    ¡°Oh, he is. He has a crush on you.¡± she gushed.

    ¡°Crush are for little boys. He¡¯s a grown up man.¡±

    ¡°Age doesn¡¯t matter. A crush is a crush.¡± she stated.

    I rolled my eyes and continued eating my spaghetti. ¡°This is good. Your man can cook.¡±

    ¡°Of course.¡± she smiled proudly. ¡°I bet yours can too.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t have one.¡±

    ¡°Oh you will. Flynn will ask you on a date. Sooner orter. Mark my words.¡±

    Iughed. That will probably never happen, but I still replied with: ¡°We will see.¡±

    After I finished dinner I went back to my room to grab myptop.

    ¡°Do you still have a lot of work to finish?¡± Reina asked when I came back in the living room with myptop clutched under my armpit.

    I nodded. Only the the thought of the amount of work I need to finish, is making me tired.

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll keep youpany.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know what I did to deserve you.¡± I mumbled, plopping down next to her.

    ¡°Honey, don¡¯t say that.¡± she yfully nudged me. ¡°But this time, you should tell me a little bit more about that mysterious one night stand guy.¡±

    ¡°I already told you everything.¡±

    ¡°But I still feel that there¡¯s a missing part.¡±

    There is a missing part.

    A huge one, that I don¡¯t even know about.

    Everytime I think about it, my mind wanders to Flynn.

    The things he says.

    The effect his touch has on me.

    All so familiar, but still a mystery.

    I want to put two and two together, but it doesn¡¯t make sense.

    Flynn doesn¡¯t make sense.

    Because if he was the mystery guy from the one night stand, he would have told me right?

    Jill Malik P. O. V

    ¡°Fuck!¡± I cursed as I kicked the water dispenser. It made a loud shrieking sound, before it became silent.

    Dammit !

    This was the third time this week it had refused to work.

    I was tired. I needed coffee. I needed caffeine. And myst source of energy just gave up on me.

    I didn¡¯t had a good sleep in three weeks due to so much work and so many things that needed to be finalized. Theunch will be in two weeks, and the pile of work  I need to finish is still high like the eiffel tower.

    ¡°Is there a problem Miss Malik?¡± ire asked, walking into my office. I bet the sound the water dispenser made could be heard through the whole building.

    I sighed tiredly. ¡°Can you please grab me coffee and something to eat?¡± I asked as I slumped back in my chair and turned myptop on.

    She nodded silently and walked out of my office. Lately everyone was stressing out. Ximena wanted to have the perfectunch and ny percent of the time she didn¡¯t agree on the ideas we presented to her, which means we had to start over again and work even more harder.

    I don¡¯t me Ximena, her brand will be avable worldwide and I know she wants the perfectunch to impress investors from Brazil, Paris, and Russia who will also be present as VIP guests.

    From my office I could hear Ximena giving a presentation to a group of uing makeup gurus.

    Lately we both were so busy that we didn¡¯t had time to have a little chit chat. During lunch she was either still in a meeting or she had to meet someone important to discussunch details .

    I, on the other hand stayed in my office, finishing my work that looked endless.

    I stood up to grab a file from the drawer behind me when I heard a knock on my door.

    ¡°Put it on my table.¡± I answered, assuming it was ire with my lunch. I rummaged through the drawer and finally found what I looked for. I really need to clean up the mess in here.

    When I turned around I let out a yell as I saw who was standing in front of me.

    ¡°Flynn?¡± I breathed out, after a while. ¡°Uhm Ximena is in a meeting.¡±

    Flynn looked ridiculously handsome in his white button up shirt with rolled up sleeves. His hair was damp and his lips were a light shade of pink.

    Totally kissable.

    I mentally pped myself for thinking that. Who knows where those lips had been before he came here? The thought only makes me want to gag.

    ¡°Actually.. I¡¯m not here for Ximena.¡±he said, casually sitting down on the chair in front of my desk.

    ¡°Do you need my help in something?¡± I put my file down and sat back on my chair opening myptop. ¡°Tell me.¡±

    I looked up at him and his piercing blue eyes were staring straight into my soul, making me ufortable.

    ¡°Yeah actually, what do you have nned tomorrow evening?¡±he asked.

    ¡°Uhm nothing. Is there a meeting I need to attend tomorrow, because I¡¯m not going. Just send ire.¡±

    I was tired, tomorrow is Friday and I was looking forward to spend a night alone watchingflix.

    Heughed. ¡°Not a meeting, but a date.¡±

    ¡°Date?¡± I asked confused. Is that what he came here for?

    ¡°Yeah, If you want to go on a date with me.¡± he rified.

    I stayed silent for awhile as my eyes widened at what he just asked

    I was shocked.

    Confused.

    Tired.

    Is he alright?

    ¡°Can I send ire?¡± I croaked out still in shock. Once those words left my mouth I immediately regretted it. What kind of dumb answer was that?

    My mind was probably ying games with me.  I didn¡¯t had my daily dose of Caffeine and sugar yet, I think I must be hearing stuff.

    Flynnughed and shook his head. ¡°No pudding, I want to go on a date with you, not ire.¡±

    ¡°Right yeah, of course.¡± I answered, still in a daze. This felt so surreal.

    Not because he asked me, but because Reina was right.

    Sooner orter he will ask you on a date. Mark my words.

    ¡°So is that a yes?¡±

    I nodded softly. I pinched myself on the cheeks while closing my eyes. Maybe this was just a dream.

    Part of my imagination.

    Why would he want to date me, he¡¯s a womanizer. Isn¡¯t that what he¡¯s famous for after being the most hottest, richest, and youngest CEO.

    ¡°Pudding, are you alright?¡± I heard Flynn¡¯s voice in the distance.

    I opened my eyes and he was there. Looking at me confused and worried.

    This was not a dream.

    ¡°Did you just ask me on a date?¡± I asked, scrunching my eyebrows in confusion.

    ¡°I did.¡± he said, ¡°So is that a yes?¡±

    This was reality.

    ¡°Uhm yeah, I mean It¡¯s a yes Vasilios.¡± I answered, nodding my head in the process.

    ¡°Oh god.¡± he sighed relieved, ¡°I thought you would y hard to get. I will pick you up at seven tomorrow.¡±

    I am going on a date with Flynn.

    ¡°Where are we going?¡± I asked curiously.

    ¡°That¡¯s a surprise.¡± he said mysteriously. ¡°But wear something beautiful.¡±

    And I need to dress up. Which means shopping.

    ¡°Okay.¡±

    ¡°Are you alright?¡± Flynn asked worried as he studied my face.

    ¡°Just in shock.¡± I answered with all honesty.

    He chuckled. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯m sitting here all casual and chill, but damn my heart is running faster than Usain bolt right now.¡±

    ¡°Please don¡¯t get a heart attack in my office, I don¡¯t want to deal with a dead bo¡ª,¡± I rambled, before Flynn cut me off.

    ¡°Pudding, I think I should go so you can process my question.¡± he suggested, standing up from the chair.

    ¡°Yes of course.¡± I needed him out of my office, so I could sort out my messed up mind.

    ¡°But the answer stays yes.¡±

    ¡°Yeah yeah.¡± I assured him. ¡°The answer stays yes.¡±

    ¡°Good.¡± he smiled. ¡°See you tomorrow pudding.¡±

    When he left my office, I banged my head on my wooden desk.

    Stupid. Stupid. Stupid.

    I couldn¡¯t even think straight when he was here. Of course, it¡¯s just a date. It¡¯s not that he¡¯s serious about me right?

    ¡°Miss Malik, Oh my god. You¡¯ll get a concussion!¡± ire yelled, running into my office with my lunch.

    I stopped banging my head and looked up at her. The smell of strong coffee filled my small office.

    ¡°Coffee!¡± I stretched my hand out and grabbed the coffee out of her hand. This was what I need.

    Coffee. Strong, dark, and bitter.

    Hopefully this will help me think straight.

    ¡­¡­.

    ¡°The ck one looks better on you, than the red one.¡± Reina rummaged through my closet, looking for possible date night outfits.

    Today, once again I came homete which means I couldn¡¯t go shopping. It was also the date night with Flynn. He woulde pick me up in an hour and I still have no idea what to wear.

    ¡°I don¡¯t have shoes to go with that dress.¡± I said sadly. It was a beautiful dress and I haven¡¯t wore it since I bought itst summer.  It was an utterly gorgeous ck dress with a plunging neck, wide straps, and a geometric strappy back detail that dips to a tasteful low back. I don¡¯t know why I haven¡¯t wore this before, it was beautiful.

    ¡°I do have shoes for you.¡± Reina ran to her room and came back with a pair of stilletos.

    Oh hell no.

    ¡°Those are skyhigh.¡± I protested, eyeing the killer heels she had in her hands.

    ¡°You are used to wear heels. You wear it everyday to work.¡±

    ¡°Those are not so high.¡±

    ¡°Doesn¡¯t matter, look these ones has a tform it will not be that bad.¡± She showed me the bottom parts of the shoes.

    I sighed. I don¡¯t want to go into a discussion with her about shoes. It will only make me more tired than I already am.

    ¡°Fine, put them there. I¡¯ll do my makeup and I¡¯lle out in a bit.¡± I said defeated.

    She grinned widely. ¡°Ohhh! I¡¯m so happy for you! I knew he would ask you! I can see Vasilios babies running around.¡±

    She was too enthusiastic for her own good.

    ¡°That¡¯s enough Rei.¡± I groaned. This was the nth time she was saying this to me. ¡°Wait in the living room for me.¡±

    She nodded and exited my room.

    I applied a smokey eye makeup, watching a makeup tutorial of Nikkietutorials on my phone. Then I put my hair in a high ponytail, leaving some strands lose in the front.

    Atst I put on my shoes, practiced a couple of minutes in them in front of the mirror, before making my entree in the livingroom where Reina was waiting for me.

    She let out a loud gasp when she saw me.

    ¡°You will have Flynn begging on his knees for a second date!¡± was all she said as she turned me around. ¡°Oh god, you look stunning.¡±

    Iughed. ¡°Well I think you¡¯re exaggerating about Flynn begging. But geez thanks.¡±

    ¡°You two are so cute I¡ª¡±

    She got cut off by the knock on the door.

    That¡¯s Flynn! She mouthed and ran to the door to open it. I followed behind her and saw Flynn leaning on the doorframe.

    ¡°Oh yes, she¡¯s here.¡± Reina chirped. ¡°Jill!¡±

    I walked into the foyer and Flynn¡¯s eyes widened when he saw me.

    ¡°I know right.¡± Reina gushed. ¡°She leaves you speechless, mouth wide open, wanting for more.¡±

    ¡°Those are my exact thoughts.¡± he licked his lips, his eyes trailing up and down my body. ¡°So fucking beautiful.¡±

    ¡°Thank you Vasilios.¡± I smiled. ¡°You cleaned up nice too.¡±

    ¡°Is that all?¡± he asked, pretending he was hurt. ¡°This is the suit you chose for me bytheway.¡±

    I looked at his suit and it was indeed the one I chose for him. ¡°You look handsome, now is that enough for your ego?¡±

    Heughed and took my hands in his. He turned to Reina and said: ¡°Don¡¯t worry I¡¯ll bring her home before midnight.¡±

    ¡°You don¡¯t worry.¡± Reina yfully nudge his shoulder. ¡°This is not Cindere, I¡¯m not her evil stepsister. You can bring her to your home, I wouldn¡¯t mind.¡±

    ¡°Reina!¡± I hissed.

    Flynnughed and after I said my goodbyes to Reina we walked towards the elevator. Flynn pressed lobby and we waited for the elevator doors to open.

    ¡°Ready for what I¡¯ve nned for you, pudding?¡± he asked, stroking my hand softly. He send me a dazzling smile, showing off his white teeth, shutting my brain once again off.

    Damn Vasilios!

    Flynn Vasilios P. O. V

    There were no words to describe how beautiful Jill looked tonight. Her short ck dress, showed off her smooth tanned legs. Her eyes sparkled and the small smile on her face didn¡¯t fade since we left her apartment.

    If Jill would be a princess, she would be my princess. Her bright red lips were asking me to kiss them and her sparkling blue-green eyes held a mischievous glint.

    A little freak.

    My little freak.

    ¡°No way!¡± Jill gasped sping her hands in front of her mouth, as I lead her to into Gallow Green. ¡°This is beautiful.¡±

    Not as beautiful as you I thought silently.

    ¡°I figured you would like this ce.¡± I said, cing my hand on the small of her back.

    ¡°Like?¡± she said wide eyed, turning around to hug me. ¡°I love this, it¡¯s so beautiful.¡±

    I was so happy that she loved it, because I had rented the entire ce for one night. It was a beautiful rooftop bar at the McKittrick Hotel,  nicely decorated with lots of nt life and trellises.

    All in all it was an enchanting ce, just like Jill.

    ¡°Why are we the only ones here?¡± she asked, looking up at me.

    I bit the inside of my cheeks. I hope she will not freak out.  ¡°Well,¡± I said. ¡°I have rented this whole ce¡­ for us¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s amazing!¡± She eximed, excitement visible in her eyes. ¡°You didn¡¯t had to do this, but I¡¯m actually happy that you did, because this ce is breath taking.¡±

    I smiled and led her to our table in the center of the room. Her face lit up when she saw the orchestra in the corner of the room. I pull out a chair for her and she sat down, still inplete awe about her surroundings.

    ¡°Good evening Mr. Vasilios and Ms. Malik, can I take your orders?¡± the waiter ask, pulling out his notepad.

    ¡°A tuna crudo for me.¡± I said eyeing the menu. The food was cheap, but I hope it taste good.

    Jill was still scanning the menu. I hope she finds something she likes. There was a reason I brought her here instead to Del Posto or all those fancy restaurants.

    ¡°Pumpkin ravioli please.¡± Jill closed the menu and gave it back to the waiter.

    ¡°Anything else?¡±

    ¡°Yes.¡± I cleared my throat and continued, ¡°Nute Calzone for dessert and Red wine.¡±

    The waiter wrote it down on his notepad and walked away with a nod.N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.

    I looked at Jill and she was already staring at me. ¡°So¡­¡± she said, ¡°What made you bring me here?¡±

    ¡°To Gallow Green?¡± I asked.

    She nodded.

    ¡°Well¡­¡± I was hesitating if I should  tell her or not.

    ¡°Well?¡± She rose her eyebrows and I gulped.

    ¡°Because I want to.¡± I lied.

    Sheughed and shook her head. ¡°Vasilios, Vasilios. I know you better, you would never dine at a ce under five stars.¡±

    Damn, she knows.

    ¡°You got me there pudding.¡± I chuckled nervously. ¡°Well, it¡¯s because you¡¯re special.¡±

    That is true. She is special, that¡¯s why I hadn¡¯t brought her to a five star restaurant, yet. A first date is suppose to be special and one of a kind.

    ¡°Am I?¡±

    I nodded. ¡°You are, I didn¡¯t want to bring you to a five star restaurant where I brought all my former flings and one night stands. You deserve better.¡±

    Jill was silent. Her eyes were holding all kind of emotions. I couldn¡¯t tell if they were happy, sad, or angry. I hope she was not angry or sad. I was trying to make her happy.

    I was trying to give her a one of a kind date.

    Somece where I haven¡¯t been to with one of my flings.

    Jill deserved a first date that is amazing as her.

    ¡°I-I¡¯m.. I mean that¡¯s nice.¡± she spoke softly. ¡°You haven¡¯t been here with one of your regrs?¡±

    Regrs? What is she talking about?

    ¡°What?¡± I asked, scrunching my eyebrows in confusion.

    ¡°Regrs.¡± she emphasized the word. ¡°Flings. One night stands.¡±

    Oh, so that¡¯s what she called them.

    ¡°No.¡± I answered, smiling at the thought that she called my flings regrs. ¡°I mean, I¡¯ll bring you to Del Posto and all those fancy restaurants, but for our first date I wanted it to be special.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re really something Vasilios.¡± She smiled and turned her attention back to the orchestra.

    Seeing her enjoying herself gave me a content feeling. It was always hard to please a girl. All the girls I took out on a date in the past wanted to go to fancy restaurants, but they ended up buying a damn sd. What¡¯s the point of going to the world¡¯s best restaurant only to buy a sd?

    ¡°Did I already told you that you look beautiful?¡± I asked, studying her side profile. Her ponytail brought out her perfectly sculpted jawline.

    She turned around to face me and blushed. ¡°You already did. You called me fucking beautiful in front of Reina.¡±

    ¡°Right.¡± I remembered.

    ¡°This is really beautiful Vasilios. I have to admit, this is better than I expected.¡± Her voice sound angelic and sweet. And the way she said Vasilios, it just came so perfect out of her mouth.

    ¡°Did you expected a five star date?¡± I teased, my lips twitching in a smile.

    Sheughed. ¡°Well I actually did. Isn¡¯t that what rich people are into?¡±

    I snorted. ¡°Not this one.¡±

    It was not aplete lie. I didn¡¯t like ces rated under five stars, but for Jill I would do anything.

    Even going to a ce rated zero stars.

    The horror.

    But if it makes her happy, it fucking makes me happy.

    We stopped talking when the waiter arrived with our food. He poured wine in our sses and wished us a pleasant evening before returning back to the kitchen.

    We ate and talked. The food was delicious and so was the dessert. I was really impressed and I would definitelye back here in the future. Maybe with Jill, since she loved this ce.

    After dinner we walked around the rooftop and sat down on a couch in front of a fire, surrounded by nts. It was a beautiful and romantic setting.

    Jill sat down next to me and together we make s¡¯mores. Sheughed a lot at the awful jokes I made, but she was also a good listener when I told her about my business trips, deals, and ideas.

    ###Chapter 13

    She gave me some very interesting feedback, especially on myst project. It would be one of my biggest ones so far and having feedback really helped to improve my idea.

    On my turn I asked her about Mn and Aunt Lydia. They were the only family she had. I can¡¯t believe people can be so cruel to abandon their own blood. I would be disgusted by myself if I would ever do that.

    After we ate our s¡¯mores Jill leaned on me and ced her head on my shoulder. ¡°Thank you.¡± She whispered. ¡°For tonight. I had an amazing time.¡±

    I yed with her hair and inhaled her scent. ¡°Only for you pudding.¡± I murmured and leaned in to ce a kiss on her forehead.

    She froze, but then calmed down.

    I¡¯m pretty sure she thought I would kiss her on her lips.

    How much I really wanted to do it right now, especially seeing her plump lips in a wicked smile.

    I can¡¯t.

    Or at least, not yet.

    But soon.

    Soon pudding, you will be mine.

    And I¡¯ll tell you the truth.

    The truth, that I¡¯ve known you all along.

    Jill Malik P. O. V

    ¡°So¡­ How was the date?¡±

    The moment I stepped out of my room to have breakfast, Reina started to interrogate me. I ignored her and made myself coffee and a sandwich. It was early in the morning and I have no idea where Reina get all her energy from.

    ¡°Hey!¡± I yelled when Reina grabbed the sandwich I just made. She smirked and took a big bite off it.

    ¡°So, are you going to spill?¡± she said, after she was done chewing. I rolled my eyes as I was grabbing a gran bar and apple.

    I didn¡¯t had time to make myself another sandwich.

    ¡°It was fine.¡±

 105

    ¡°Just fine?¡± She stopped eating and looked disappointed up at me. ¡°Was it that bad?¡±

    ¡°Rei, it was amazing okay. The best date I¡¯ve ever been so far.¡± Iughed, seeing the disappointed look on her face.

    She threw the tablecloth at me and cursed. ¡°You little bitch, I¡¯m curious where did you guys went?¡±

    ¡°We went to Gallow Green. He rented the whole ce only for us.¡± I told her, ncing at the time on my phone.

    I had to leave in five minutes, if I wanted to ditch traffic.

    ¡°Gallow Green?¡± she repeated, frowning. ¡°Not Del Posto or Le Bernardin?¡±

    I shook my head. ¡°He had his reasons, anyway enough about me. What about you and Luca?¡±

    She blushed when I mentioned Luca¡¯s name. ¡°Luca has been amazing. He changed and he keeps surprising me every time.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m d you guys work things out, he¡¯s a really nice guy, he just made some¡­ poor decisions in college.¡±

    ¡°Yeah.¡± Reina sighed. ¡°I don¡¯t me him. College was not really meant to be about serious rtionships and all.¡±

    I nodded in agreement and picked up my bag from the kitchen table. ¡°I need to go now, see you tonight.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll have to work tillte tonight. Don¡¯t wait for me.¡± she said, as I waved her goodbye.

    ¡­¡­.

    I walked into my office and I was greeted by a shaking ire. ¡°ire?¡± I walked over to her and the poor girl was shaking heavily. ¡°What happened?¡±

    ¡°Xi-xi-ximena¡­¡± she managed to stutter out. Her hands were shaking and she looked like a mess.

    ¡°What happened with Ximena?¡±

    ire gulped, sadness visible in her eyes. ¡°She broke up with him.¡± she let out a cry and continued, ¡°He cheated on her.¡±

    ¡°Oh shit!¡±

    I ran to Ximena¡¯s office and knocked on her door twice before entering in. She was holding her head in both her hands while sobbing hysterically. My heart started to ache when I saw the state she was in.

    Completely shattered.

    ¡°Ximena.¡± I whispered, stroking her back softly.

    ¡°He ch-cheated on me !¡± she cried out, tears falling on her desk. Her shoulders were shocking forcefully and she was panting heavily. ¡°Why? Why?!¡±

    She banged her head on the table and if I wasn¡¯t there to stop her, there would probably be a huge dent on her forehead.

    ¡°Ximena, listen to me. He¡¯s stupid okay ! You didn¡¯t lost him, he lost you. It¡¯s not your loss baby.¡± I whispered, caressing her head.

    She cried louder.

    ¡°We were suppose to get married !¡± she yelled out, looking at me with red puffy eyes and a snot nose. ¡°He cheated on me with that stupid whore of his personal assistant !¡±

    ¡°Karma, baby. Karma will get back to them.¡± I said through gritted teeth, as I handed her a tissue. God forbid me to not kill that bastard right now.

    How can he even do such a cruel thing? He really is stupid. Ximena is a solid gold, but if he prefers stones, who am I to judge?

    ¡°I don¡¯t fucking believe in Karma.¡± Ximena cried out, punching herself in the face.

    ¡°Ximmy!¡± I yelled out sternly, holding both her hands tightly so she wouldn¡¯t injure herself. ¡°Stop, okay! Yes, he cheated on you and yes he was supposed to marry you. But can¡¯t you see? This was meant to happen ! ke is not what he said he was. He¡¯s not a fucking gentleman, but a manwhore ! A liar !¡±

    ¡°You don¡¯t know!¡± she sobbed, hugging me tightly wetting my zer with her snot and tears. ¡°It hurts.. so bad. I feel it ! My heart shattering.¡±

    I took a deep breath as I hugged her back. I could feel her pain. I could feel what she was going through.

    The pain, the betrayal, the lies.

    I could feel it.

    ¡°Oh god, Ximmy!¡± Tears formed in my eyes. ¡°It will be alright baby, I¡¯ll be here with you.¡±

    I hugged her and together we cried our hearts out.

    ¡°I¡¯m broken, Jill.¡± Ximena whispered after a while. ¡°So broken.¡±

    I stroke her hair softly. ¡°Someone will pick up the pieces for you one day.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡± she hupped, ¡°I don¡¯t know if that will be possible. I¡¯m so broken, this is a trauma for me.¡±

    ¡°Ximmy baby,¡± I said softly. ¡°Promise me one thing.¡±

    ¡°What?¡± she choked out.

    ¡°Promise me that you¡¯ll not build a wall around your heart.¡±

    She looked up at me and I wiped the tears off her face. ¡°Please, promise me that? You deserve the world Ximmy and ke may have cheated on you, but they are so many guys out there. Longing for your love.¡±

    She hupped. Her chest raising up and down violently, her hands shaking, and her face red and puffy.

    ¡°I promise.¡±

    ¡­¡­.

    Flynn Vasilios P. O. V

    ¡°I swear I¡¯m gonna kill that motherfucker!¡±

    Seeing my bestfriend angry like this made me nervous. Never in my entire life have I seen Rodrigo so mad. I know that he cared a lot about Ximena, but I never thought that he cared so much that he was ready tomit a murder for her.

    ¡°Man, calm the fuck down!¡±

    Rodrigo looked at me with a murderous look in his eyes. ¡°Why are you so fucking calm?!¡± he seethed. ¡°That bastard cheated on your sister with his ugly PA !¡±

    ¡°She¡¯s old enough to handle her own personal problems.¡± I answered calmly, even though deep down inside I was everything except calm.

    I was fuming, infuriated, outraged.

    God, I was so close to make that guy penisless, if that¡¯s even a word.

    If it wasn¡¯t because of Ximena¡¯s pleading words to not make things worse, I swear I would have gone that cheating asshole house the second I got the news from a crying Ximena.

    Seeing my sister cry was heartbreaking. And I hate that the person who caused her the heartache was her own cheating fiancee.

    Ex-fiancee.

    But I know she was strong. I know she would ovee this.

    It was just a little bit hard to exin to Rodrigo that Ximena didn¡¯t want our help. Ximena specifically told me she didn¡¯t want me to punch ke in his face nor any other parts of his body. ¡°Don¡¯t lower yourself to his level.¡± she had said through teary eyes.

    ¡°She¡¯s your fucking sister Flynn! Even if she said to not do it, you should !¡± Rodrigo yelled out aggravated. ¡°You can¡¯t just let that cheating bastard go without at least a few punches.¡±

    I shook my head. My hands were itching to punch ke, but I¡¯ll try to keep myself in.

    For the sake of Ximena.

    ¡°It¡¯s what she wants Rodrigo, I will not go against her wishes.¡±

    Rodrigo let out a sharp breath and sat down on the chair in front of me. He breathed in and out to calm himself down.

    ¡°Fuck ! I swear, if I see that cheating bastard I will not hesitate to punch him in his face.¡± Rodrigo said through gritted teeth.

    ¡°Me neither, it hurts to see my sister crying because of a stupid boy.¡±

    We stayed silent for a while, before Rodrigo broke it.

    ¡°How was your date?¡± he asked.

    ¡°It was great.¡± I said, a small smile making it¡¯s way to my face at the memories ofst night. ¡°Jill is amazing.¡±

    ¡°I bet she is. Have you told her yet?¡±

    I shook my head, knowing exactly what he was talking about.

    Rodrigo cursed under his breath. ¡°You fucking idiot ! When the hell are you going to tell her?!¡±

    ¡°Soon.¡±

    Jill Malik P. O. V

    Get ready tomorrow at 4PM, we¡¯re going on a pic   . F.

    I typed a quick okay back before turning my attention back to myptop. Lately more work has been piling up, because Ximena was on a mini vacation. She was having a good time at the burj al arab in Dubai, while me and ire were trying to finish all the work that was as high as that building.

    I didn¡¯t mind that she was on a mini four day vacation in Dubai. Her parents rmended it to her the day she broke up with ke. They couldn¡¯t see their only daughter being depressed especially before her makeupunch.  It was good for her. Yesterday she sent me a picture while she was having a massage. She looked happy and healthy.ConTEent bel0ngs to N?v(e)lD/rama(.)Org .

    About ke, that cheating bastard. He didn¡¯t even felt sorry about it. He just continued his ¡®rtionship¡¯ with his slutty PA and even proposed to her after he broke up with Ximena. He even proposed to her with the same ring he gave Ximena. To put the cherry on top, their wedding will be held on the same day Ximena willunch her makeup. All the time he wasn¡¯t arranging his marriage with Ximena, but with his PA.

    I don¡¯t know why he did this to Ximena, but I¡¯m sure Karma will get back to him one day. He¡¯s such a disgrace to all the male species in this world.

    Yesterday Flynn came over and had lunch with me. He brought chinese and we had a pretty good time. He made meugh and I felt morefortable around him. He isn¡¯t as bad as I thought he was in the beginning.

    He¡¯s actually really cool and hot, with his asional dirty jokes. But then again Flynn without his dirty jokes is not the Flynn I know.

    Heughed and every time he did that, my heart skipped a beat. The sound of hisugh was the best sound my ears had ever heard. It was soid back and chill.

    I felt like I knew him. But I couldn¡¯t put two and two together, because something is missing.

    Like an important piece of information.

    Or maybe I¡¯m just imagining things, because I¡¯m still thinking about him. It¡¯s weird and I hate that I can¡¯t let it go.

    I asked Flynn what he thought of ke, but he just shrugged it off and muttered something along the lines of: ¡°My sister is old enough to know that this is just one of the setbacks in life.¡±

    His answer was weird, because most brothers would beat the guy who fucked his sister up. Flynn on the other hand seemed unfazed. Like he didn¡¯t care about the situation. I decided to not question him about it anymore, because I know it would be pointless.

    ¡°Miss Malik?¡± ire walked into my office, with a donut and coffee. ¡°You didn¡¯t had breakfast nor lunch, so I brought some for you.¡±

    She ced it on my desk and my eyes went to the clock on my table. Three pm.

    Dammit, did I work for so long. No wonder I had cramps in my fingers and my eyes were watering.

    ¡°Miss Malik, you should take a break sometimes. All this work is not good for you.¡± ire said, as she handed me a tissue to wipe my eyes off.

 106

    ¡°It¡¯s okay, ire.¡± I replied, slowly wiping the tears off. ¡°I¡¯m just doing what I need to do.¡±

    ¡°No, no. Ximena is actually really worried about you. She specifically told me that the work she left behind should be done by me, you, and the rest of the team. At this point you¡¯re the one who¡¯s doing most of the work.¡± ire shut myptop off and took it off the table.

    ¡°Hey! Where are you going with myptop?¡± I asked dumbfounded as she walked out of my office with myptop in her hands.

    ¡°Hiding this.¡± she said casually. ¡°Tomorrow you have a day off. Don¡¯t worry about us, we will be doing just fine.¡±

    ¡°ire, I was just doing my work !¡± I protested.

    ¡°No Miss Malik. Your work is finished. That was giving a name to the makeup palette, the rest was our work and we¡¯re going to finish it. So you can as well pack up and go home and give yourself a nice bath, because you deserve it.¡± With that she walked out of my office with a content smile on her face.

    I leaned backwards on my chair and sighed deeply. It was hard hearing the truth from ire. I wanted everything to be perfect, because I know how much thisunch means to Ximena. But that¡¯s why she also has other people working in this building.

    I tend to forget that sometimes.

    I packed up my stuff and closed my office. When I walked passed ire, she gave me a warm smile and said: ¡°Have a great day Miss Malik.¡±

    ¡°You too, ire.¡± I replied back, smiling.

    I passed other cubicles and said my goodbyes to my other colleagues, before exiting the building.

    ¡­¡­.

    When I arrived at my apartment, it was empty. Reina was still at work and she would probably have dinner with Luca and his parents who were currently in town.

    I took a nice bath and dressed up in a my skimpy peignoir and ordered pizza. After my dinner -pizza- arrived I turned onflix and watched Riverdale. I felt so rxed.

    The front door opened and Reina came in. ¡°Hey.¡± she greeted, putting her bag on the table. ¡°Hi, how was dinner?¡± I asked, as she plopped down next to me.

    ¡°His parents were too¡­ happy.¡± she sighed, grabbing a pizza from the box. ¡°No, happy is not even the right word. Let¡¯s just say excited. Overly excited, to the point where they started talking about baby names.¡±

    ¡°Wow.¡± I chuckled, ¡°That¡¯s a lot for meeting them for the first time.¡±

    ¡°I know right, but they are nice people. Their english is funny and the dad kept using google trante on his phone to talk to me.¡±

    ¡°Nice inws you have there.¡± Iughed.

    She rolled her eyes. ¡°I¡¯m going to take italian lessons.¡±

    ¡°Really?¡± I asked surprised.

    She nodded and smiled. ¡°Hard to believe right. I swore to myself that I wouldn¡¯t learn any other foreignnguage after English. But here I am, thinking about taking Italian sses.¡±

    ¡°The things you do for love.¡±

    ¡°The things I do for love.¡± she sighed chuckling, taking a bite of her pizza. ¡°So, how are things going between you and loverboy?¡±

    ¡°Will you stop calling him loverboy? That¡¯s so¡­ high schoolish.¡±

    Sheughed loudly. ¡°Okay, what should I call him then? Prince charming? Gentleman in a bugatti?¡±

    ¡°Yikes no, Flynn is fine.¡± I said after hearing the awful nicknames she had for him. Gentleman in a bugatti? Really, is that the what they call prince on a white horse in this century?

    ¡°Yeah whatever, so are you guys dating?¡±

    I shook my head. ¡°Nope, just friends.¡±

    ¡°Really?¡± she said disappointed. ¡°I thought you guys were already passed the friendzone.¡±

    ¡°Why would you think that?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡± she shrugged, ¡°He¡¯s so nice to you.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s true, but that¡¯s what friends are supposed to be. And bytheway he reminds me a lot of him.¡±

    Her eyes widened. ¡°You mean one night stand guy?¡±

    I nodded. ¡°Yeah, I know he¡¯s not the one. If he was he would tell me right? He wouldn¡¯t keep it a secret.¡±

    ¡°What if he is the one? But he is afraid to tell you?¡±N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.

    Reina¡¯s question made me think for awhile. I haven¡¯t thought about that.

    ¡°But what if he knows, but he doesn¡¯t want to remind me about it, because it was just a one night stand.¡±

    ¡°Mmh, that¡¯s another way of thinking about it. You will never know if you don¡¯t ask him.¡±

    ¡°So you are telling me that I should ask him?¡± I said, looking horrified. ¡°Are you crazy? What if he¡¯s not the one?¡±

    ¡°Then he¡¯s not the one.¡± she simply shrugged.

    ¡°No, no. If he¡¯s the one he should tell me, because he remembered. I don¡¯t. And it¡¯s only fair if he does, because he left me without a note or something. And that¡¯s already a hint that it was just a one night stand. Nothing less, nothing more.¡± I stated.

    ¡°But you fell in love. Maybe he did too. You never know if you don¡¯t ask hunny. You said it yourself. You guys didn¡¯t fuck, but made love.¡±

    ¡°Maybe he is not even the guy. Maybe I was being delusional. Maybe it was someone else.¡±

    ¡°You will never know until you ask.¡±

    ¡°And I will not.¡± I said, crossing my hands across my chest.

    ¡°What if he¡¯s the one?¡± Reina said, ¡°How will you feel about it?¡±

    ¡°Mad of course.¡± Iughed, ¡°I mean all this time he knew and didn¡¯t bother telling me. That¡¯s lying.¡±

    ¡°But,¡± I added. ¡°He¡¯s not the one.¡±

    ¡°Are you sure about that?¡±

    ¡°Pretty sure.¡± I replied confidently.

    I was just being delusional.

    ¡­¡­.

    I was getting ready for my pic date with Flynn. I wore a baby pink scalloped skirt with a whitece top and I put my hair in a messy bun. I applied some makeup and I was ready to go. Earlier today Reina went to go sightseeing with Luca and his parents and she told me she would be home by midnight, because Luca was nning to take her for dinner tonight. And with dinner, I don¡¯t mean five star restaurant. More like his apartment andce. Lots ofce, probably handcuffs too.

    I heard a knock on the front door and walked out of my room to open it. Flynn was standing there in a pair of brown jeans and a denim shirt. Like always, he looked handsome.

    ¡°Hello pudding.¡± he greeted, shing me his oh-so dazzling smile. My panties just melted and I didn¡¯t even wore panties.

    ¡°Hey, Vasilios.¡± I said smiling, closing the door behind me.

    ¡°Ready to go?¡± he asked,cing his fingers with mine.

    I nodded. ¡°I¡¯m excited.¡±

    We exited the apartment and in his bugatti we drove to the ce he was taking me. He brought me to the East River State Park. It was not a fancy ce, but the view of Manhattan is breathtaking. The park was  flush against the river, offering stunning-and previously fenced-off-views of Manhattan¡¯s skyline. Aside from the barbecue tform and children¡¯s yground, it¡¯s a mostly wide-openwn dotted with pic tables, making it a perfect locale to set up nkets and have the most amazing pics.

    I stepped out of the car and saw that Flynn was holding a basket in his hand. ¡°What¡¯s in there Vasilios.¡± I asked curiously.

    ¡°Food of course.¡± he replied, taking my hand in his and walking down the park.

    I rolled my eyes. ¡°I know, but what kind of food?¡±

    ¡°You will see in a minute.¡±

    We stopped in the middle of the park and he put the basket on one of the pic tables. I sat down and looked around. It was beautiful. There were not a lot of people and the view was breathtaking. And I wasn¡¯t even talking about the Manhattan¡¯s skyline. That¡¯s just a bonus.

    I watched Flynn as he took the stuff out of the basket. Subway sandwiches, strawberries, apples, juice, water, yogurt, and chocte cake.

    ¡°Did you made that yourself?¡± I asked, pointing at the chocte cake.

    He nodded disappointedly. ¡°Nope, bought it.¡±

    ¡°Oh.¡±

    He handed me a subway sandwich and poured juice for me. ¡°Have I already said that you look stunning?¡± he asked, giving me a once over.

    ¡°Well you just did.¡± I chuckled, ¡°You look great too.¡±

    ¡°You look better pudding.¡± he winked, sitting down.

    ¡°Oh I know.¡± I flipped my hair and smiled at him.

    He just shook his head andughed loudly. ¡°Cute.¡±

    We ate in silent, Flynn asionally throwing bread crumbs at me. After that we talked about ns for the future. And then about Ximena and family.

    ###Chapter 14

    Half way he stopped talking, and held my hand. His touch sent shivers down my spine. ¡°I want to ask you something.¡± he said nervously, grabbing something out of his pocket.

    If he¡¯s asking me to marry him, I swear I will drown him in that river.

    ¡°No.¡± he said, as if he could read my mind. ¡°I¡¯m not going to ask you to marry me. Who the hell goes from friendzone straight to marriage? Even though I wouldn¡¯t mind, it¡¯s just unrealistic.¡±

    Oh thank goodness.

    ¡°But,¡± he said. He pulled his hands out of his pocket and my eyes widened at what he was holding. A round cut white fire opal gold ring. So goddamn pretty. ¡°This is a promise ring. I swear I didn¡¯t meant to fall in love or I thought I wasn¡¯t capable of falling in love. But then you appeared and yeah how cliche it may sound, I started wanting everything. Your smile, your jokes, you. Just all of you. I¡¯m not the best, but I promise I¡¯ll love you with all my heart. So Jill Pudding Malik, this is my way of stepping out of the friendzone. Do you want to be my girlfriend?¡±

    I couldn¡¯t hold back my tears. This was all so unrealistic. I thought this only happened in fairy tales. Reina was right. He is the modern version of prince on the white horse.

    Gentleman in a bugatti.

    My heart was pounding against my chest and I wiped my tears away. ¡°Of course, oh my god. This is so cute.¡±

    The things I felt for him right now were indescribable. Butterflies were erupting in my stomach as he slid the ring on my ring finger of my left hand. I was so surprised that it fit perfectly.

    ¡°It¡¯s so beautiful. Oh my god Vasilios !¡± I squealed walking around the table and straddling him. I didn¡¯t care if there were kids in the park. He tilted my face and nted a kiss on my lips.

    ¡°Will you pleasee up with a better nickname pudding?¡± he whispered against my lips.

    I chuckled. ¡°Maybe, but I like that one.¡±

    ¡°Myst name is not a nickname pudding.¡± he put his hands around my waist and at that moment I realized  I was wearing a skirt.

    How did I managed to straddle him in a skirt?

    ¡°ck thongs. Cute.¡± Flynn whispered in my ear, making me jump out of hisp, but he held me firmly in ce.

    ¡°Vasilios, let go of me.¡±

    ¡°Oh pudding. The only time I will let go of you is when I¡¯m gonna grab your ass and right now is not the right time since we want to keep things pg-13 for those kids over there.¡± he smirked, pointed at two kids ying on the grass.

    As I already mentioned before. Flynn without dirty jokes, is not Flynn.

    He ced another kiss on my jaw, when his face turned serious. ¡°I need to tell you something.¡±

    ¡°What?¡± I asked. I remembered him saying the same thing when we were in the ne, before I fell asleep. ¡°You said the same thing in the ne, but I fell asleep and you never told me anything afterwards.¡±

    ¡°Well,¡± he said, ¡°Because it needs to be said at the right time. And I think this is the right time.¡±

    ¡°So what is it?¡± I was starting to get curious.

    ¡°Remember that¡ª¡±

    I put my finger on his lips when my eyes darted to a couple behind him. The man looked exactly like Flynn. Well, a little older.

    It was creeping me out and Flynn¡¯s story could wait. This was way more important. Why was there another Flynn in this park, with a beautiful woman. They were old, yes, but even a person with a bad eye sight could see that the old man was a copy of Flynn.

    ¡°Flynn.¡± I whispered, ¡°Why does that man look like an older version of you?¡±

    Flynn turned his head around and his eyes widened.

    ¡°Mom, dad?! What are you guys doing here?¡±

    Jill Malik P. O. V

    ¡°What are you doing here, son?¡± The old man, Flynn¡¯s dad, asked astonished as he looked back and forth at Flynn and I. ¡°And who is thisdy? Why are you on my table?¡±

    ¡°Dad, as far as I know this is a public park.¡±

    His mom giggled. ¡°Oh honey, you don¡¯t know the history don¡¯t you?¡±

    ¡°What history?¡± Flynn asked confused, he loosened his grip from my waist. I took that as an opportunity to get off hisp. I straightened my skirt and sat down next to him, looking at his parents.

    They were old. Probably in theirte fifties or early sixties. Now, I can see where Ximena got all her beauty from. Her mom looked stunning, for an olddy.

    His dad cleared his throat. ¡°Well, I ask your mom to be my girlfriend on this very same table.¡±

    ¡°What?!¡± Flynn and I eximed simultaneously.

    Talk about history repeating itself.

    ¡°Why do you sound so surprised?¡± his mom asked, and then looked at me with a warm smile. ¡°And who are you youngdy?¡±

    ¡°She¡¯s Jill.¡± Flynn answered for me. ¡°My girlfriend.¡±

    His mom¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°Really?! Since when?¡±

    ¡°Since a couple of minutes ago.¡±

 107

    ¡°You asked her to be your girlfriend on my table?¡± his dad eximed.

    ¡°Dad, it¡¯s not your table.¡± Flynn said through gritted teeth, a little bit annoyed.

    His mom patted the back of his dad. ¡°Honey, it¡¯s okay. You should be happy, this table brings luck. We have been together for so long now.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right honey.¡± His dad turned his attention to me. ¡°And what is your full name youngdy?¡±

    ¡°Jill.¡± I answered, but then realized he wanted my full name. ¡°Jill Malik.¡±

    ¡°Friend of Ximena?¡± the olddy asked surprised. ¡°She always talks about you and I didn¡¯t had a clue who you were. I¡¯m Jolie, but you can call me Jo. Your future mother-inw.¡± She winked at me as she said thest sentence.

    It was weird that I¡¯ve never saw them before. Even on Ximena¡¯s graduation ceremony and engagement party. Now I remember that I saw a glimpse of them during both the graduation ceremony and engagement party, but I never bothered to ask who they were.

    ¡°I¡¯m Sullivan, nice to meet you dear.¡± the old man gave me a kind smile.

    ¡°Nice to meet you Mr. and Mrs. Vasilios.¡±

    ¡°So,¡± Jolie looked at her son, ¡°When are you going to bring her for dinner.¡±

    Flynn face turned sour. ¡°Mom!¡± he grunted, ¡°Dinner has to wait. At least for a couple of months.¡±

    ¡°What!¡± Jolie¡¯s eyes widened, it looked like she was about to get a mini heart-attack. ¡°Months?! Honey, why?¡±

    ¡°Because,¡± Flynn let out a deep sigh, ¡°I know that once I bring her to dinner, the topic marriage will follow me everyday, all day. We just started dating.¡±

    Jolie pouted. ¡°Honey.¡± She looked at Sullivan with pleading eyes. ¡°Tell your son to bring Jill to our family dinner.¡± She then looked at me. ¡°You¡¯re perfect for my son, better than that Zoe girl.¡±

    ¡°Mom!¡± Flynn warned. ¡°Zoe was once my friend.¡±

    ¡°Was.¡± his mom said, ¡°Until you turned her into a ¡­.¡± Jolie stopped talking and made a ugly face. ¡°Anyway, you are way better. Educated with a sessful job and you have morals. Just what my son need.¡±

    Flynn looked at his dad with pleading eyes. ¡°Can you please tell mom to talk a little less?¡±N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.

    ¡°You will not, Sullivan!¡± Jolie warned.

    Sullivan sighed deeply and looked at me. ¡°Sometimes I feel like a middle child.¡±

    I chuckled when he said that. ¡°So are you guys going to have a pic here?¡± I asked.

    Sullivan nodded. ¡°Yes, it¡¯s our anniversary.¡±

    That¡¯s the most sweetest thing I¡¯ve ever heard. This is what I call rtionship goals.

    ¡°We were about to leave.¡± I said, standing up and started to pack and clean the table. ¡°We were done anyway.¡±

    Flynn stood up and helped me pack. We cleaned the table so Jolie and Sullivan could have their date in peace.

    ¡°I¡¯ll see youter Mr. and Mrs. Vasilios.¡± I waved at them.

    ¡°See you soon Jill.¡± They waved back.

    Flynn swung his arm around my shoulder and pushed me against him.

    ¡°So, your mom is interesting.¡±

    Flynn grumbled. ¡°I¡¯m sorry you had to hear that about Zoe. My mom can sometimes be a little bit straight forward.¡±

    I shrugged. ¡°I guess that¡¯s fine by me. But we should talk about your regrs if you want this rtionship to work.¡±

    He nodded. ¡°I know you would ask me about this sooner orter. Don¡¯t worry, I will. But not now.¡±

    He looked at me and nted a kiss on my forehead. ¡°Today, I just want to kiss you. A lot.¡±

    ¡­¡­.

    I still can¡¯t believe I¡¯m now officially Flynn¡¯s girlfriend. It feels so surreal, because I never thought I would end up with him.

    Yesterday after he dropped me off, we ended up in a heated makeout session. The way he kissed me, touched me, it reminded me so much of him. I feel soplete with Flynn, like he was actually the one I was waiting for in all those six years.

    But I know it couldn¡¯t be. Or could it?

    I don¡¯t know. Not remembering most of the things that happened that night, is not pleasant. Another reason I never ever touched a whiskey bottle after that night.

    I shook my head and continued walking. I was on a little shopping spree, because Flynn messaged me this morning, that he wanted to take me to Paris. He¡¯s actually going to seal a business deal, but he said that there was still enough time to go out and go sight seeing.

    First I was protesting, because theunch of Ximena¡¯s makeup palette, was going to be in a couple of days. But he promised me that he would bring me home, two days before theunch. After a lot of convincing from him and Ximena, I decided to go. Which meant I needed to do some shopping.

    I was about to walk into Macy¡¯s when someone called my name. I turned around and saw Ethan with a beautiful girl next to him walking towards me.

    ¡°Ethan!¡± my face lit up as I saw him.

    ¡°JJ, finally we meet again.¡± he gave me a side hug and then faced the girl next to him. ¡°Irina, she¡¯s Jill my best friend. Jill, this is Irina my fiancee.¡±

    Thest time Ethan and I met was when we had lunch at Margon restaurant. There he told me that he was engaged with a Jordanian woman, named Irina who also was on the internship program. It was love at first sight and five months after dating, he proposed to her.

    I was shocked to say the least. I never thought he was the first one who would get engaged. He always said that he didn¡¯t believe in love at the first sight, but here he was engaged to the woman he fell in love with the very first time he saw her.

    ¡°How are you?¡± I asked Irina. She was so pretty. Long shiny ck hair, big dark green eyes, and long ck eyshes.

    ¡°I¡¯m doing well.¡± she replied shyly. ¡°We¡¯re doing some shopping, because we¡¯re nning to move to Jordan.¡±

    ¡°Really?¡± I asked surprised. ¡°That¡¯s great. When?¡±

    ¡°When Ethan gets the job in Jordan. We can get an email anytime now.¡± She looked at Ethan with a small smile and I could see how much she loved him.

    Ethan nodded. ¡°Yes, once I get an email we are moving immediately.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s awesome Ethan!¡± I was so happy for him, that he got what he wanted. ¡°And what about you Irina?¡±

    ¡°Me?¡± she asked, ¡°I¡¯ll take over my parent¡¯s business.¡±

    I nodded. That makes sense.

    I looked at my watch and my eyes widened. Flynn would be at my apartment in an hour and I still needed to go to Macy¡¯s.

    ¡°It was great to finally meet you.¡± I hugged Irina. ¡°But I¡¯ve to go now. I hope to see you both before you leave for Jordan.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll give you a call.¡± Ethan promised.

    I said my goodbyes to them and walked into Macy¡¯s to buy thest stuff I needed for Paris.

    ¡­¡­.

    I sprinkled some green parmesan cheese on the Cajun chicken pasta, before serving it on the tes.

    Flynn was about toe any moment now.

    After I was done shopping, I did some quick grocery shopping. Then I facetimed aunt Lydia and put my phone on the fridge so she could give me directions on how to make Cajun chicken pasta.

    I was nning to make my favorite dish and probably the only dish I could make on top of my head, but I decided to try something new.

    I heard the front door opening and closing and I knew it was Flynn. I told him in the message that he could just walk in, I would leave the door open. I looked down at my outfit and it wasn¡¯t that bad.

    I wore a Ivory shift dress, that had a little bit sauce on the bottom, but it looked presentable. I walked into the living room and Flynn was cing his jacket on the couch.

    ¡°How was work Casanova?¡± I stood on my tippy toes and ced a quick kiss on his lips. ¡°Mmh good.¡± he mumbled against my lips. ¡°I don¡¯t like that nickname.¡±

    I giggled. ¡°What do you want me to call you then? Chunky butt? Muffin?¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re so horrible in giving nicknames.¡± he chuckled, cing another kiss on my lips. Before I knew it, he held my waist firmly and sat down on the couch, cing me on hisp. ¡°Mi amor, would be cute.¡±

    ¡°Nope.¡± I said, shaking my head. ¡°Mn is my mi amor.¡±

    Heughed. ¡°Well then you have two.¡±

    ¡°No, you chunky butt.¡± I yfully pped him and tried to wiggle myself out of this position.

    ¡°I swear, you are waking up the big fe of this chunky butt if you will not stop wiggling.¡± he warned, trying to hold me still.

    ¡°What?¡± For a minute I didn¡¯t know what he was talking about. ¡°Ohh.¡± I said embarrassed after I finally realized what he meant.

    ¡°Yes, ohh.¡± he smirked, probably enjoying every single minute of this.

    I leaned in and softly kissed him on his lips. ¡°Dinner¡¯s ready Vasilios.¡± I licked his bottom lip before pulling away.

    I stood up and smirked when he groaned, frustrated that I broke the kiss.

    ¡°You little tease !¡±

    Jill Malik P. O. V

    I woke up feeling tired. I looked at my phone, it was 4:00 PM. I stretched and let out a loud yawn. I looked at the night stand on my right and saw a rose with a note attached on it. I picked it up and smiled at what was written on it.

    I¡¯m at a meeting. I¡¯ll pick you up at seven pm. We¡¯re going to the eiffel tower.

    See you tonight, pudding.

    I ced the rose back on the night stand and stood up to go to the bathroom. I took a quick shower and covered myself in a white bathrobe.

    Early this morning we arrived in Paris.  The flight from New York to Paris was pleasant. There was no turbulence or whatsoever as how they mentioned at the beginning of the flight. Thank goodness nothing kinky happened during the flight except for a lot of kissing. I wasn¡¯t ready yet to be weed in the mile-high club. When we arrived at the private airport of the Vasilios we immediately drove to Le Meurice, the hotel we were staying at, because Flynn needed to shower and prepare for his meeting at noon. While he was busy on hisptop finishing his work, I took a nap on the kingsized bed.

    I walked back into my plush Louis XVI style decorated bedroom and ordered Gougere through room service. I was hungry, because I hadn¡¯t had lunch. Flynn ate the fruit bowl I brought with me while I was sleeping.

    The Gougeres arrived and my mouth started to water. Gougeres are small french pastries and they are filled with ingredients such as mushrooms , beef, or ham. I took a bite of one and moaned in pleasure. It tasted that good.

    After I finished the Gougeres I opened my suitcase to pick out a dress for tonight. I picked the one Reina chose for me. A long nude glitter backless dress. I tried it at home and it fitted me like a glove. She also packed matching heels with them, luckily this time they weren¡¯t as high as skyscrapers. They were a pair of beautiful four inch nude heels with see through straps.

    I ced the dress and shoes on the bed and went on the balcony. It had a beautiful view  of the Tuileries gardens. The hotel itself was luxurious. They had sophisticated rooms and suites with Italian marble bathrooms. All have t-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi and air-conditioning, and 24-hour room service is avable.

    There were also 2vishly decorated restaurants, including a renowned restaurant serving haute cuisine, plus a chic bar hosting nightly live jazz, and a spa with mosaic hammams and a sun terrace.

    It had literally everything one needed, it was even pet-friendly ! Talking about pets, maybe I should ask Flynn for one.

    I grabbed my phone and texted him. This was more important than the meeting. I need to make sure if he likes puppies or not, because his answer can either make me happy or make him single. Better not mess this up Vasilios.

    Hey. We need to talk -Jill-

    I hit the send button and sat down on the chair on the balcony enjoying the view. This was my first time in Paris and even though I haven¡¯t been out yet I have been enjoying myself so far. The rooms are huge andfortable, the food was heaven, and the view was amazing from up here.

    My thoughts were disturbed by the sound of my phone. The screen said in bold letters Vasilios with a heart and ring emoji next to it. I picked it up, wondering why he called me.

    ¡°Yes Vasilios?¡± I answered in a sweet voice.

    ¡°What happened?¡± he asked murmurous. I bet he was still in his meeting. If he was, why was he calling then? The only thing he needed to do was send me a message back.

    ¡°Nothing.¡± I said, ¡°Why are you calling me if you¡¯re in a meeting?¡±

    ¡°What is it that you want to talk about?¡± I could sense that he was getting impatient.

    ¡°I wanted to ask if you like puppies.¡± I rolled my eyes as I said that.

    ¡°Is that what you want to talk about?¡± he whisper-yelled and then groaned.

    ¡°Yes.¡± I answered, ¡°You just had to send me an message with a answer, you know.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t scare me like that anymore. I thought it was important !¡±

    ¡°It is important.¡± I replied in a matter-of- fact tone.

    I heard him shuffle in the background and then I heard: ¡°It¡¯s okay gentlemen, my girlfriend is okay. She just wanted to ask if I like puppies. Sorry for the interruption, I will end this call in a second.¡±

    Then I heardughs erupting in the background and a man in a husky voice said: ¡°That¡¯s like my wife, one time she called me in the middle of a meeting only to ask if I still love her. I married her and we have two kids.¡±

    They burst intoughter again and Flynn came back to the phone. ¡°Yes, I love puppies. I will buy you a whole shelter if you want.¡±

    ¡°I just want one. Are you still in a meeting?¡±

    ¡°Yes, when you send me that text I immediately asked them to stop the meeting, because I thought something was bothering you. You didn¡¯t even add emoji¡¯s in the text. It sounded so¡­ cold.¡±

    I chuckled. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. Tell them I apologize for the interruption.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s okay. Did you saw the rose?¡±

    I nodded, but realized Flynn couldn¡¯t see me. ¡°Yes.¡± I answered.

    ¡°Good, then I will see you tonight.¡±

    ¡°Bye Vasilios.¡±

    ¡°Bye pudding.¡± he said before ending the call.

    I sighed and went back to read the text and see if it sounded cold as how Flynn mentioned. Reading it five times over and over again I realized what he meant. It sounded serious. Well, atleast I know that I need to re-read my texts before sending them.

    ###Chapter 15

    I looked at my watch and decided it was time to dress up for tonight. It was only five, but knowing me I would stare an hour at the wall while I was slipping my dress on. I walked back inside my room and grabbed my makeup bag out of my suitcase.

    I seated behind the huge mirror of my vanity table and started applying moisturizer on my face. Then I opened the youtube app on my phone and typed in: Easy makeup tutorial for date night before I started painting my face.

    After what seemed an eternity I was finally satisfied with my look. Only the winged eyeliner took a good twenty minutes and then the eyebrows. That took another twenty minutes. But after the hard part was done, the fun part came. Highlighting. I highlighted the tip of my nose until it was shining like the morning sun and my cheekbones that now looked like they were sprinkled with glitter by the glitter fairy.

    I applied dark red lipstick and curled my hair so it felt in waves on my shoulders. I slipped on my dress and shoes and admired myself in the mirror. If Reina was here she would definitely say something along the lines of: ¡®You will have Flynn begging on his knees.¡¯

    I checked the time again, Flynn could arrive any minute. I quickly snapped a picture and send it to Reina, who immediately replied with a ton of heart-eyes emoji. I smiled at my phone and then I heard the main door open and close.

    ¡°Pudding ! I¡¯m home !¡± Flynn yelled from the living room. I couldn¡¯t help butugh as I was walking to the living room.

    ¡°I heard you Vasilios.¡± I saidughing as I walk towards him. His jaw almost fell on the floor when he saw me.

    ¡°Waw.¡± he breathed as he looked at me from head to toe. ¡°You look¡ª¡± he stopped and licked his lips. ¡°Ravishing¨C I mean beautiful, breathtaking, can we just stay home?¡±

    ¡°No.¡± I eximed, ¡°I mean I didn¡¯t spent forty minutes on my winged eyeliner and eyebrows. We need to go out, even if it¡¯s only to go to the store or something.¡±

    He chuckled and hugged me, inhaling the scent of my hair.

    ¡°Are you ready to go? I have quite an evening nned for us.¡± he murmured. I could feel his hot breath on my head.

    ¡°Uh yes, I¡¯m so ready as you can see.¡±

    He chuckled again and ced his hand on the small of my back. ¡°Let¡¯s go then.¡±

    ¡­¡­.

    When Flynn said he had ¡®quite an evening nned for us¡¯ I didn¡¯t know it was that grand. First we went to the eiffel tower, which was absolutely magical. When we arrived at the Eiffel tower it sparkled and bathed in golden light offering a breathtaking view of the Paris lights. Then we went up to the top floor to see the  stunning view of Paris and its monuments at night. We stayed there for a while, took pictures and then went back to the second floor to have dinner at the Jules Verne restaurant. After we had a delicious five course dinner we went to The Eiffel Tower Buffets to buy the famous french macarons.

    We ate that on our way back down and that¡¯s when I thought our date had ended. I wouldn¡¯t care if it was, because it was amazing. But instead of driving back to the hotel, we drove the opposite way.  We drove past the Arc de Triomphe and other famous sights, made even more beautiful as they light up after dark. Then we headed to the Moulin Rouge, home of the cancan, and in the Montmartre district we stopped for a dazzling performance of ¡®Feerie.¡¯

    I was amazed by all the beautiful monuments and all those lights. I couldn¡¯t stop smiling and I enjoyed every single minute of it.

    ¡­¡­.

    I let out a soft yawn before throwing my hand to the sight, pping the person who wasying next to me square in the face.

    ¡°Ouch, woman!¡± Flynn grunted, brushing the part of his face where I pped him.

    ¡°Sorry.¡± I mumbled kissing the top of his head.

    ¡°Good Morning pudding.¡± he said in a husky morning voice. He then pushed me into his chest.

    ¡°Vasilios !¡± I squealed and then giggled when he ced kisses from my jaw to my neck.

    ¡°Ugh!¡± he groaned and closed his eyes.

    ¡°What?¡± I asked worried.

    ¡°Do you want me to take you now or do you want to wait longer?¡± he said through clenched teeth.

    ¡°Wait longer, we haven¡¯t had our one month anniversary yet.¡±

    He groaned in pain. ¡°One month, that¡¯s thirty days of torture.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, can¡¯t you just tell him to not get excited around me.¡± I rolled my eyes and pushed myself off him so I could release him out of his ¡®torture.¡¯

    ¡°He has a mind of his own. And have you seen yourself in that skimpyce dress what you call pyjama? Women would turn lesbian for you, how can you expect my big boy not to react?¡±

    ¡°Big boy?¡± I said in a mocking voice and thenughed.

    ¡°Do you want to see it?¡± he asked, putting his hand under the covers.

    ¡°No!¡± I eximed, covering my face. ¡°Not yet ! And I know it¡¯s big. It¡¯s literally poking the covers and we¡¯re sleeping with two.¡±

    ¡°But can¡¯t you just give me a blowjob?¡± he whined.

    Literally whined.

    ¡°No.¡±

    ¡°Handjob?¡±

    ¡°No, I told you it¡¯s either everything or nothing. So wait until our one month anniversary or maybe longer¡ª¡±

    ¡°I can¡¯t wait longer than that.¡±

    ¡°So impatient, but oh well. You know already why you have to wait one month.¡±

    ¡°Yes, yes.¡± he replied and then mimicked me: ¡°I don¡¯t go around spreading my legs to a guy I only dated for less than a month. I usually wait longer, maybe five or six months, but you¡¯re an exception Vasilios.¡±

    I burst intoughter. ¡°For your information I don¡¯t sound like that.¡±

    ¡°Oh you do, especially when you say Vasilios. The emphasis you put on myst name is such a huge, huge turn on.¡± he licked his lips and winked at me.

    ¡°I will kiss your mouth shut!¡± I treated.

    He smirked. ¡°I dare you.¡±

    I moved closer to him and smashed my mouth against his. If we hadn¡¯t brushed our teethst night, I wouldn¡¯t even think of doing this. As our lips crushed together, I felt like i was walking on air. It was magic, the way his lips felt against mine. It was so perfect to be real. His mouth was so warm, the caress of his lips soft and before I could deepen the kiss more he pushed me off him. Inded backwards on the bed when a whole bunch of curse words left his mouth.

    ¡°Fuck, Fuck, Fuck !¡± he yelled frustrated getting up from the bed. When he stood up I realized why he was angry. His big boy in his pant was standing in all his glory pointing at me.

    ¡°Look what you did !¡± he groaned pointing at his big boy.

    ¡°Get rid of it !¡± I yelled, my eyes glued at the huge bulge in his boxers, I was afraid it would tear it apart. For a moment the thought of ¡®if it would fit in me¡¯ crossed my mind. I shuddered and shook my head. ¡°And by the way  you were the one that dared me to kiss you.¡±

    ¡°I didn¡¯t know he would get worse when you kissed me, I mean I should¡¯ve know¡ªBut whatever, nevermind.¡± he groaned, pulling his hair in frustration. ¡°Do you enjoy looking at it? Are your panties soaked?¡±

    ¡°No. No. and No.¡± I replied, ¡°And no, I don¡¯t wear panties so they are not soaked.¡±

    ¡°Do you want to talk dirty to me as I try to get rid of my big boy?¡± he pleaded.

    ¡°No.¡± I stated firmly and stood up and walk towards him. I squatted down in front of him so I would be eye to eye to his big boy. Flynn¡¯s eyes widened when he saw me doing that.

    If he thinks I will give him a blowjob he¡¯s so wrong.

    Instead I quickly patted his big boy and whispered: ¡°Be a good big boy and don¡¯t get hard for me until next month okay?¡±

    ¡°What the fuck pudding? Did you just talked to my dick?!¡± he shrieked, a horrifying expression stered on his face.

    ¡°What else did it look like? Do you want me to put a ring on it too?¡±

 108

    He wailed. ¡°I¡¯m so gonna punish you on our one month anniversary.¡±N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.

    ¡°I would like to see¡ª I mean feel that.¡± I replied sassily.

    ¡°That sassy mouth of yours is going to do a splendid job. Now get up, because the position you¡¯re in is so tempting damn it!¡±

    I stood up andughed while he was ring at me.

    ¡°Now.¡± I said with a sweet smile. ¡°Go take a cold shower and get rid of it. We have ns, you know.¡±

    He groaned and turned around and walked to the bathroom.

    ¡°Nice booty.¡± Iplimented his rear view.

    ¡°Shut up pudding! You¡¯re not making it easy!¡± he yelled back, closing the door behind him.

    Iughed louder and shook my head. This is going to be an interesting one month.

    Jill Malik P. O. V

    Paris went by faster than I expected, in no time I was back in busy New york city. It was fun to say the least, our rtionship grew stronger during the shopping trips, sightseeings, and dates. Except for the mornings, those were a torture for Flynn, everything went by smoothly.

    ¡°Pudding, are you do¡ª,¡± Flynn came into the room, trying to fix his tie, while I was applying lipstick. He stopped mid sentence and eyed me from head to toe. ¡°You look stunning.¡±

    ¡°Thank you.¡± I walked over to him and nted a kiss on his lips. He held me firmly on my waist and deepened the kiss.

    ¡°Vasilios,¡± I panted heavily, pulling away from him. ¡°You have lipstick all over your face.¡±

    He chuckled and gave me a final once over, while I was trying to wipe the red off his lips. ¡°Is this the one you bought in Paris?¡±

    I nodded and looked at my dress in the mirror. It was a off-the-shoulder high low navy blue dress. When I saw this in the store, I instantly fell in love. It was elegant, yet sexy and it fitted me perfectly.

    I saw Flynn smiling in the background. ¡°What are you smiling at?¡±

    ¡°Nothing, pudding.¡± he replied, still smiling. ¡°Just trying to keep big boy asleep.¡±

    ¡°You better, Vasilios.¡± I warned. During our stay in Paris, I had to deal with him jerking off in the bathroom every morning. I turned around to grab my clutch. ¡°Now, let¡¯s go. I don¡¯t want Ximena to wait.¡±

    We walked outside of Flynn¡¯s house where the driver was waiting for us. A couple weeks ago Flynn bought a new mansion and he told me that I was the first girl he brought here. I was ttered. The house was a beautiful two story mansion with an absolutely amazing spiral staircase and a gorgeous library with hundreds of books. The house was big, it could amodate at least thirty people. There was a backyard, a swimming pool, a cinema, a basketball court, and so much more.

    I stepped in the car, followed by Flynn. After we fastened our seatbelts, he ced his hand into mine. ¡°Do you think Ximmy will be alright, I haven¡¯t check how the preparations went.¡± I said worried. Flynn stroked my hand. ¡°It¡¯s alright Pudding. Everything is fine, you will see.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not sure, yesterday I only helped for five hours and¡ª,¡±

    Flynn leaned in and kissed my mouth shut. ¡°Now that you¡¯ve shut up. Five hours was more than enough plus you needed rest, because you just came from Paris.¡±

    ¡°But¨C¡± I tried, still not convinced. I could have work longer, I wasn¡¯t really tired since I had slept almost the entire flight. This morning I hadn¡¯t even call her to ask if she needed me. What if something went wrong?

    ¡°Do you want me to spank you?¡± Flynn threatened, making me shut up instantly. When I didn¡¯t say anything, he smirked. ¡°Good, that¡¯s my pudding. You have done more than enough for Ximmy, so just rx okay?¡±

    I nodded softly in the dimmed light and he squeezed my hands again, ensuring me that everything¡¯s going to be alright. I looked outside the window and saw something familiar passing by. ¡°Stop..!! Stop, the car please!¡± I yelled at the driver and he immediately stopped the car, making me almost fly and hit my head at the back of his seat. Thank god, for seatbelts.

    I opened the car window, pulled my head out and read the sign across the street. Yes, there it is. Damn ! I never thought I woulde across one ever in my life. So many times I thought that I had to go all the way to India only to get a taste of that.

    ¡°Pudding? What¡¯s happening? Put your head inside.¡± Flynn said worried as he tugged on my dress.

    I sat back on the seat and looked at him with a pout. He sighed and asked: ¡°What do you want?¡±

    ¡°Biryani.¡± I answered, happily.

    ¡°What? Who¡¯s that?¡±

    I pointed my finger at the Biryani cart outside. ¡°It¡¯s an indian dish. I¡¯m really craving it.¡±

    ¡°But we¡¯re going to a party. There¡¯s going to be caviar and¡ª,¡±

    ¡°I want biryani. I will not ask you for anything else.¡± I pouted. I was really craving it. Sincest year. During college, I had an indian ssmate who always brought biryani to school and shared it with me. To say I grew attached to it, was just an understatement.

    Flynn let out a deep sigh and tapped his driver on the shoulder. ¡°Can you grab some chicken biryani from across the street?¡±

    The driver nodded and got out of the car. I looked at Flynn with a questionable look on my face. ¡°Aren¡¯t we going?¡±

    ¡°This is a bad side of town, pudding.¡± He goes with his hands through his hair as he said that. ¡°Thank you.¡± I whispered, kissing his temples.

    ¡°For what?¡±

    ¡°For stopping and buying me biryani.¡±

    He chuckled lightly. ¡°Everything for my pudding.¡±

    The driver came back in the car and handed me the te with chicken biryani and bottle of water. It looked so delicious and tasty.

    ¡°Do you want some?¡± I offered Flynn, but he just shook his head. Well, all the more for me then.

    I took a bite of the deliciously seasoned chicken and let out a soft moan. It tasted so good.

    ¡°I can let you moan louder than that, pudding.¡± Flynn said next to me.

    ¡°Vasilios, now is not time for your dirty mouth.¡±

    He snickered, but didn¡¯t say anything in return.

    When we arrived at the venue where Ximena held herunch party I was already finished eating. I had reapplied my makeup, sprayed perfume to cover the biryani smell, and sucked on a cough drop.

    The ce was already packed with people, since we were twenty minuteste. Flynn took my hand in his and we walked up the stairs, since theunch was held on the second floor. The security guards recognized Flynn and I, so they just opened the door. I stared in awe at the beautiful setting. I had an image how it would look like, but the oue always surprised me.

    We stepped in and everyone¡¯s attention was on us. I then realized that this is the first time we are at a party as a couple.

    ¡°I knew it! I knew it !¡± Flynn and I turned around and we were greeted by a squealing Ellie. ¡°Oh my god, I knew it!¡±

    ¡°What?¡± Flynn asked, clearly lost at what was happening right now.

    ¡°You two ! Are a couple ! Oh my god!¡± Ellie hugged me tightly, to the point it was hard to breath.

    ¡°El.. Ellie, Lose your grip on me.¡± I pleaded.

    She instantly let go of me and her eyes turned wide. ¡°Oh my god, are you alright?¡±

    Typical Ellie.

    ¡°So,¡± she smirked at Flynn and I. ¡°Are you guys official?¡±

    Flynn took my hand and show her the promise ring. Ellie¡¯s jaw dropped. ¡°You two are engaged?!¡± She eximed, making the whole room look at us. If staring wasn¡¯t enough, now they were gawking.

    ¡°What?!¡±Flynn hushed. ¡°No, this is a promise ring. She¡¯s my girlfriend.¡±

    Ellie ced her hand over her heart. ¡°Oh wow, that¡¯s so great. I was wondering when you would finally have the balls to ask her.¡±

    Flynn red at her and I chuckled. From behind her I could see Ximena walking towards us. She wore a elegant red dress and was apanied by a handsome Rodrigo. She and Rodrigo grew closer since her breakup with ke.

    ¡°What¡¯s all themotion about?¡± she asked in a silky voice and then her gaze shifted to me. ¡°You look beautiful, Jill.¡± She then hugged me.

    I hugged her back, we haven¡¯t had a proper talk in so long. ¡°You too, Ximmy.¡±

    ¡°I have missed you so much.¡± she whispered. ¡°You¡¯re always with my brother.¡± She threw  a dirty look at Flynn, who in his turn winked at her.

    ¡°I can¡¯t help that I¡¯m the better sibling.¡±

    ¡°You are not !¡± Ximena yelled out offended.

    ¡°Children, children,¡± Jolie and Sullivan walked towards us. ¡°What¡¯s with all the yelling?¡±

    ¡°I told Ximmy that I¡¯m the better sibling and she got offended. I mean, isn¡¯t it obvious?¡±

    Jolie and Sullivan shook their heads and looked at me. ¡°How are you dear?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m doing well, what about you two?¡± I smiled at both of them. Jolie looked stunning in her purple gown. They both looked still pretty much in love.

    ¡°I¡¯m doing okay, I guess.¡± Jolie muttered, looking at her husband who on his turn sighed. ¡°Please darling, not again.¡±

    ¡°You were looking at her, the way you looked at me when we first met.¡± Jolie crossed her hands over her chest and looked the other way.

    ¡°That was six years ago.¡± Sullivan whisper-yelled frustrated.

    I looked questionably at Flynn and he whispered in my ear: ¡°My mom is mad that my dad identally locked Poker out of the house and every time she¡¯s mad she brings up the time my dad stared at one of her employees.¡±

    ¡°Who¡¯s Poker?¡± I asked, not knowing who he was talking about.

    ¡°That¡¯s our dog.¡±

    I shook my head andughed silently. This family really is something. Flynn took my hand in his and we walked away from all the drama. We walked towards the other side of the room, where the bar was, to get something to drink.

    ¡°Good evening Flynn and¡ª,¡± A girl with red hair stopped us in our tracks. Her dress clung on her body like a second skin and I felt like I¡¯ve seen her somewhere else before.

    I just don¡¯t know where.

    ¡°Jill.¡± I said. She nodded her head, but her attention stayed on Flynn.

    ¡°So how was it?¡± she asked, a smug expression on her face. She stood one inch taller than me in her killer heels, her breasts were almost popping out of the dress, and her hair was red, wild, and curly. If there was a slutty version of the movie Brave, she could be the main actress.

    ¡°How was what?¡± Flynn face turned sour the moment he saw her.

    ¡°You know, the one night stand?¡± she traced the side of his cheek and thenughed. Flynn flinched at her touch. ¡°Goodness, it¡¯s so funny.¡±

    ¡°What are you talking about?¡± I looked at both of them.

    ¡°Pudding it¡¯s¡ª?¡±

    ¡°Who are you?¡± Red head snarled, cocking her head to the side.

    ¡°I¡¯m the girlfriend.¡± I replied, squinting my eyes at her. I don¡¯t know why I sounded so calm. ¡°Who are you?¡±

    Sheughed. Loud and so udy-like. But when she saw that neither me or Flynn wereughing she stopped. ¡°You¡¯re not serious, are you?¡± She totally ignored my question.

    ¡°She¡¯s dead serious Poppy! Now get the hell out of my face.¡± Flynn hissed angrily.

    Suddenly the picture of the ident at Victoria¡¯s Secrets popped in my head. Red head. Hot tempered. Same exact girl.

    But I thought her name was Pam.

    ¡°You!¡± I pointed at her, anger welling up in me. ¡°You are the same girl from Victoria¡¯s Secret !¡±

    ¡°What?!¡± This time she was the one that looked confused at me.

    ¡°You were the one that caused the scene in Victoria¡¯s secret. You¡ª¡°

 109

    ¡°I wasn¡¯t!¡± She yelled out. How much drama can there be in one night?

    ¡°Then who was?!¡±

    ¡°That was my aunt, because your boyfriend here couldn¡¯t keep his dick in his pants so he had to go and fuck my aunt!¡± she yelled out bitterly, not caring that we were in a public ce. Luckily she wasn¡¯t as loud as Ellie and people didn¡¯t notice anything.

    Her words stung. Even though I know it was his past, it was bothering me like hell. How many of these women in this room, hasn¡¯t he fucked?

    ¡°Poppy!¡± Flynn held her firm on her shoulders, while shaking her violently. ¡°Get the fuck away from here !¡±

    Sheughed evilly and then turned her attention towards me. ¡°I was the one he wanted to fuck, but since my aunt and I look alike¡ª,¡±

    Flynn growled and pushed her away. She stumbled and almost felt backwards, if it wasn¡¯t of the chair that was behind her. ¡°Finish that sentence and I swear I¡¯ll break both your chicken legs.¡±

    ¡°Finish that sentence and I swear I¡¯ll break both your chicken legs.¡± she repeated him in a mocking voice. ¡°You didn¡¯t say that when you fucked my aunt considering we both look-alike.¡±

    With that she smiled and walked away. Anger and pain was written all over my face. I know that this shouldn¡¯t hurt me. That this is just part of his past. For some reasons, I was angry. Angry at Flynn for being so reckless. How many of these women, hasn¡¯t he fucked? What will they think of me? That I¡¯m just one of his flings?

    Flynn turned around and saw the hurt in my eyes. He wanted to grab my hand, but I pushed him away.

    ¡°Pudding I¡ª,¡± his voice cracked, but I didn¡¯t want to hear any of it.

    ¡°You had a one night stand with her aunt?!¡± I whisper-yelled, pain visible in my voice. ¡°That¡¯s disgusting!¡±

    Tears brimmed in my eyes. Suddenly I couldn¡¯t be with him in the same room anymore. I walked out of the room to the balcony, to get some fresh air.

    This was just too much for one night.

    Jill Malik P. O. V

    The night was starless and the moon was covered with murky clouds that blended in with the rest of the sky. I leaned on the balusters of the balcony and admired at how it was made. The balcony was supported by corbels made out of sessive courses of stonework and it reminded me so much of the renaissance period. I gazed up at the sky and shivered. It was chilly and windy on the balcony, but the view from up here was breathtakingly beautiful. The rose garden and the fountain looked like that from a fairytale. I inhaled the fresh air and heaved a long sigh.

    I hated that I got mad at such a stupid thing. His past.

    I know that it shouldn¡¯t bother me. He was a womanizer after all, he can¡¯t turn the time back and change that. Even though I wished he could.

    But something in me snapped when redhead looked at me.

    Dirty and angry.

    That¡¯s the exact words to describe at how she looked at me.

    I know that she¡¯s mad that Flynn had a one night stand with her aunt, but why did she had to bring it up in the middle of a party?

    I was looking forward to Ximena¡¯sunch party for months. I have worked day and night to make it as memorable as possible. And then some redhead came along and ruined it in ten minutes. Who invited her anyways?

    ¡°Pudding,¡± Strong arms hugged me from behind. ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡±

    ###Chapter 16

    I turned around and saw the the sad and tired look on Flynn¡¯s face. ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± he apologized, ¡°I, uhm kicked her out of the party.¡±

    I smiled faintly at him. ¡°Thank you. Can I ask you something?¡±

    He nodded, still holding me in his embrace. Being in his arms, I felt so safe. I hated that every time I¡¯m in his arms, the mystery guy of the one night stand popped in my head. It¡¯s unfair to Flynn. Why the hell do I still have feelings for a guy I only had a one night stand with while I¡¯m in a rtionship?

    Is it considered cheating? Gosh, I hope not.

    ¡°How many of the women inside have you had a one night stand with. Excluding your mother and sister.¡± I asked in a whisper.

    Being this close to him, I could hear his  heart beating faster. He gulped and then looked down at me. ¡°Do you really want to know?¡±

    I nodded against his chest. ¡°Yes. I need to know about your past if you want this rtionship to wo¡ª,¡±

    ¡°Ten.¡± he suddenly said.

    My eyes widened when I heard the number. Not two, not three, but freaking ten. Ten of those women inside knew exactly how long and big his dick is. They even felt him.

    The thought only made me want to vomit all the biryani out.

    ¡°Are you alright?¡± Flynn asked worried when he saw that my face turned pale. ¡°I¡¯m sorry okay, If I could I would unfuck them all, but I can¡¯t.¡± He caressed my cheek with his thumb. ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡± he whispered again. I could feel and smell his hot minty breath in my face, because he was that close.

    ¡°You don¡¯t have to say sorry over and over again. You already said it, you can¡¯t unfuck them. It¡¯s done. But we need to talk about it.¡±

    ¡°About my one night stands?¡±

    ¡°Past.¡± I corrected him. ¡°Your past. Dirty past. Regrs.¡±

    He chuckled softly when I said regrs. ¡°There are many. I lost count.¡± he said.

    ¡°Ew, are you sure you didn¡¯t catch STD?¡±

    ¡°Pudding, that¡¯s why they made condoms. And most of them were well-known models. If they had STD I would sure know that. Nowadays, even personal stuff somehow gets leaked to the media.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t forget that pornstar. What¡¯s her name again? Khalifa?¡±

    ¡°Lana. She was a popr pornstar. Did porn for a living. She does a checkup every three months and the men she makes porn with are all tested.¡±

    I wonder how he know all these things about her? Did he do a background check on her? Knowing him, he probably did. At Least he¡¯s cautious.

    ¡°So, is that all? I¡¯m pretty sure there¡¯s more.¡±

    He sighed deeply. ¡°Sera.¡± He muttered softly.

    ¡°What?¡± I asked, because I could barely hear him.

    ¡°Sera.¡± he repeated a little louder. ¡°My ex girlfriend. She elope with the dutch prime minister.¡±

    ¡°Isn¡¯t he old?¡± My face scrunched in disgust. Why would someone elope with an old man, who¡¯s probably already married? Talk about a homewrecker.¡±

    ¡°Yes, he could be her dad. But you know, people will do a lot of things for money.¡± he shrugged indifferently.

    ¡°So, what about her? Is she a crazy ex girlfriend?¡±

    He swallowed hard and I could feel it. He was nervous, his whole bodynguage proved it. He became tense and his lips were in a thin line.

    ¡°She¡¯s not crazy. She¡¯s just¡ª,¡± he stopped to catch his breath and I could feel his heart hammering in his chest. ¡°If you don¡¯t want to talk about it, just say so.¡± I whispered. I didn¡¯t want to force him to talk about things he wasn¡¯t ready for.

    ¡°I actually don¡¯t, but you need answers.¡± he said in a low voice. I squeezed him softly. ¡°If you don¡¯t want to talk about it now, I¡¯ll ask you someday else okay?¡±

    ¡°Thank you.¡± he murmured, hugging me tightly. ¡°Don¡¯t even worry about her. She has nothing on you.¡±

    ¡°Am I going to see her?¡± I asked frowning. He let go off me and held my hand. ¡°I don¡¯t know. I don¡¯t know with who she is right now.¡±

    ¡°What do you mean?¡±

    ¡°She left the dutch prime minister. She¡¯s probably with someone else right now.¡± he said. ¡°But just so you know, she¡¯s not a threat to you. And so is any other girl.¡±

    I smiled and nodded. ¡°And just so you know,munication is the key to make this rtionship work. If something is bothering you or if you¡¯re not ready to tell me something, say so.¡±

    He kissed my forehead. ¡°I¡¯ll remember that pudding.¡±

    ¡°So, do you want to go inside now. I bet everyone is looking for us.¡±

    Flynn ced his hand on the small of my back and we were about to walk inside when my phone started to vibrate. I opened my clutch and saw that it was Reina. I immediately picked it up, wondering why she called me up when she¡¯s with Luca.

    ¡°Hello, Reina?¡± I answered. Flynn was watching me with raised eyebrows. Reina rattled on and on and when she finally made her point my eyes widened in shock.

    ¡°What?!¡± I yelled out, surprised. ¡°How, what, when? I¡¯ming home right now.¡±

    I ended the call and Flynn looked at me worried. ¡°What happened pudding?¡±

    ¡°We need to go home now. Aunt Lydia and Mn are at my apartment.¡±

    Flynn Vasilios P. O. V

    ¡°Legos, I want Legos!¡± Mn cried as he stomped angrily on the carpeted floor of my office. I groaned inwardly as I watch his tantrum with a tiring expression on my face. First he wanted ice cream, while I was in a meeting. I had to send my PA to get him some, so he would shut up. Then he wanted my phone so he could watch YouTube videos. I handed him my phone, so I could concentrate on my work. When my phone battery died, he wanted a puppy. Where the fuck would I get a puppy from? To stop him from whining I send him to the shelter with my PA. Now he¡¯s back and he wanted Legos.

    I didn¡¯t know babysitting would get this tiring. When Jill asked me if I could look after Mn for a couple of hours while she and her aunt could have some girl¡¯s time, I didn¡¯t hesitate to say yes. Around Jill the word no just didn¡¯t exist. I would do anything for my pudding.

    Mn stopped crying for a second and looked at me with his big dark brown eyes. His lips quivered and then he burst out crying again. He sat down on the floor and cried louder. Oh god! I¡¯ll get crazy at the end of this day. ¡°Ok fine, stop crying!¡± I sighed loudly, scratching the back of my head. ¡°How many Legos do you want?¡±

    He stopped crying and a small smile appeared on his face. ¡°Fifty!¡± he cheered happily. ¡°Fifty?¡± I questioned. ¡°That¡¯s too much.¡±

    ¡°No!¡± he yelled. ¡°That¡¯s like five.¡±

    I shook my head andughed. ¡°No bud, fifty is fifty. Five is five.¡±

    ¡°I want fifty!¡± he said stubbornly.

    ¡°Five.¡±

    ¡°Fifty!¡±

    ¡°Five.¡±

    ¡°Fifty!¡± his lips quivered and I knew he was about to burst out into tears. I was already tired of his tantrums and I felt a headacheing up. If he cries again, I¡¯ll lose my shit.N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.

    ¡°Okay fine. Fifty!¡± I grunted, grabbing my phone from the charger to dial my friend who worked at a well-known toy store.

    ¡°Yayy!¡± Mn smiled wide like a cashmere cat and pped his hands happily. The feeling that welled up in the pit of my stomach when I saw him happy was foreign yet it felt good. Seeing him happypleted me.

    Being with him felt like I was with a part of Jill.

    ¡°Hey man! What can I do for you?¡± Dillon answered the phone. I could hear a hint of surprise in his voice. It¡¯s not everyday that I¡¯m calling him.

    ¡°Can you send fifty Lego boxes to my mansion please?¡±

    ¡°Fifty!¡± I heard him exim.

    ¡°Yes, fifty.¡±

    ¡°What are you going to do? Build a Lego house for you and Jill?¡± he teased.

    ¡°How the fuck do you know about Jill?¡± I asked bbergasted. I haven¡¯t seen him in months and he knows about my rtionship status? I don¡¯t even know what his position is at the store he works for.

    ¡°I have my sources, anyway what is the address of your mansion?¡±

    ¡°You fucking stalker.¡± I grumbled, making himugh out loud. I gave him my address and he promised it would be there before the evening. I put my phone down and looked at Mn who was now sleeping peacefully on the floor. I guess tantrums are tiring. Hell, it even made me tired and I wasn¡¯t even the one who was throwing them.

    When he¡¯s asleep he¡¯s so sweet and peaceful. Finally, silence.

    I walked over to him and carried him to the sofa in the corner of my office. I gently put him on the sofa and ced my jacket over his tiny body.

    I turned around and was about to pour myself a drink when my office door mmed open. I red at the person who was standing there and then back at Mn. Thank god, he was still asleep. If he had woke up, I would have personally strangle the person.

    ¡°What the fuck?!¡± I hissed at Rodrigo, who knitted his eyebrows in confusion when he saw the little boy on the sofa.

    ¡°Is that Mn?¡± He eximed, his eyes turning wide as he looked at the little boy with thick lustrous  jet ck hair. I can already see that he will break girls hearts when he bes older.

    ¡°Can you be fucking quiet?¡± I whisper-yelled, ncing to see if Mn heard him. But he was still asleep peacefully.

    ¡°Ah you¡¯re babysitting.¡± He grinned and grabbed a chair and sat in front of my desk. ¡°I never saw you as a daddy type.¡±

    My face scrunched in disgust. ¡°Don¡¯t call me that.¡±

    ¡°What? Daddy?¡± Rodrigo smirked. ¡°Daddy, daddy, daddy.¡±

    I red at him. ¡°Shut the fuck up. So immature.¡±

    ¡°You call me immature?¡± heughed. ¡°It¡¯s normal. You¡¯re the one that use daddy in a¡ª how do you say it. Kinky way?¡±

    ¡°Let me be, okay.¡± I grumbled as I sat down on my chair.

    ¡°If you have kids, how do you want them to call you?¡±

    ¡°Father or dad. And not daddy.¡±

    Rodrigo let out a mockingugh. ¡°Father. As in the name of the father, th¡ª,¡±

    ¡°Can you please, shut the fuck up?!¡± I hissed irritated. ¡°I already had one hell of a morning, don¡¯t make it worse.¡±

    ¡°Was he giving you a hard time?¡±

    I sighed tiredly. ¡°You don¡¯t want to know. I even brought him to a meeting.¡±

    ¡°What!¡± Rodrigo jaw fell open. He always knew that I didn¡¯t like kids in meetings. I hated when investors or associates brought their kids, because it was their day to babysit. And now I was the one who brought one. ¡°You brought him to¡ª oh my god. Why didn¡¯t you tell Jill you had a meeting. I¡¯m pretty sure she would have found someone else to babysit him.¡±

    ¡°I can¡¯t say no to her. She was looking at me with her big blue-green eyes and I just couldn¡¯t say no. And then I probably think that she wants me to spend time with Mn, so I get to know him better.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re so whipped man.¡± Rodrigo chuckled. ¡°Have you already told her?¡±

    The smile on my face disappeared when he asked me that. Why did he always have to remind me about it?

    ¡°Oh god, you didn¡¯t!¡± Rodrigo¡¯s eyes widened in shock. ¡°Fuck, when the hell will you tell her?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know. I just want to find a perfect time to tell her and¡ª¡±

    ¡°There is no such thing as perfect time.¡± Rodrigo interrupted. ¡°You are the one that¡¯s supposed to make it perfect, you dickhead.¡±

    ¡°Will you stop calling me names?¡± I red at him, but he stayed unfazed.

    ¡°You are a dickhead.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll ask her if she wants to go on the yacht this weekend and I¡¯ll tell her. This time for real.¡± I said firmly.

    ¡°Oh really? Document it please so I can see it, because I¡¯m pretty sure something will interrupt the talk.¡± Rodrigo air quoted interrupt.

    I gave him a dirty look and he chuckled. ¡°Man, I don¡¯t care how the fuck you tell her. The point is you should tell her.¡±

    I huffed and my eyes shifted at Mn on the sofa. He was still sleeping.

    ¡°Do you want a martini?¡± I asked, standing up to grab the martini bottle from the top shelf in my office. ¡°I see you spent a lot of time with my sister.¡±

    ¡°Your sister is a mess.¡± I heard him sigh.

    ¡°How so?¡± I asked, while pouring martini in two sses. I know she was a mess. All the makeup didn¡¯t cover up her puffy eyes, red nose, and dark circles. But I know she would get over it, she¡¯s a strong woman after all.

    ¡°Last night she called me up crying after she woke up from a nightmare. It was one in the morning and she wanted pizza.¡±

    ¡°And?¡± I handed him the ss with martini and he took a big gulp of it.

    ¡°I went to her house with a goddamn pizza ofcourse. I couldn¡¯t leave her alone.¡± he put the ss down and scratched his head. ¡°After that we watched A walk to remember. And she cried again, while eating pizza.¡±

    ¡°Interesting.¡± I remarked, smiling.

    ¡°Why are you so chill about it? It¡¯s your sister we¡¯re talking about.¡±

    ¡°She¡¯ll get over it. And bytheway she only listens to you.¡±

    ¡°Really?¡± Rodrigo asked astonished.

    ¡°She could have called anyone, why do you think she chose you?¡±

    ¡°Because I¡¯m her¡­ friend.¡±

    I chuckled, he¡¯s so blind or maybe he doesn¡¯t want to acknowledge it. It¡¯s either one. Well, he has to figure it out himself.

 110

    ¡°Yeah, friend.¡± I air quoted the word friend.

    He cursed underneath his breath. ¡°Now, who¡¯s the immature one?¡±

    ¡°That was not immature, I was just stating facts.¡±

    I heard soft yawning and my eyes immediately went to the sofa. Mn¡¯s eyes fluttered open and he stretched his hands. His eyes found me and then Rodrigo.

    ¡°Legos?¡± he asked in a groggy voice as he stood up and drunkenly walked towards us. His eyes were still sleepy and I knew he wasn¡¯t fully awake yet. I walked towards him and lifted him up. He put his head on my shoulder and yawned again. ¡°Legos?¡± I heard against my ear.

    ¡°They are at home. After dinner you can y with all the legos.¡± I said, stroking his back softly. Rodrigo watched me with an amused expression on his face. I went back to sit on my chair and put Mn on myp. He looked at Rodrigo and then at me.

    ¡°Who are you?¡± he asked Rodrigo. Rodrigo smiled at him and sticked his hand out. ¡°Hey bud, I¡¯m Rodrigo. But you can call me Rod, only cool people can call me Rod.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t like Rod. Can I call you GoGo?¡± Mn asked sweetly. I choked back augh while Rodrigo was cursing underneath his breath.

    ¡°GoGo is¡ª¡± Rodrigo said, but I interrupted him.

    ¡°Is fine. You can call him GoGo. He loves that name.¡± I said smirking and then looked at Rodrigo who was ring daggers at me.

    ¡°Oh you fu¨C,¡±ConTEent bel0ngs to N?v(e)lD/rama(.)Org .

    I covered Mn¡¯s ears and send him a stern look. ¡°No, cussing please!¡±

    Rodrigo huffed and stered a fake smile on his face. He shifted his attention back to Mn and smiled widely at him. ¡°So,¡± he drawled, ¡°What do you think of your new daddy, bud?¡±

    I cringed when he said that word and I was already nning his murder in my head. He can¡¯t let Mn call me daddy when Jill is the only one who has the privilege to do that. ¡°What kind of flowers do you like, Rodrigo?¡± I asked sweetly.

    ¡°White lilies, why?¡± he sounded confused.

    ¡°Oh just wondering what kind of flowers you preferred on your coffin.¡± I answered casually sending a sharp re at his direction.

    His eyes widened and he was about to say something, but Mn interrupted him. ¡°Who¡¯s daddy?¡±

    ###Chapter 17

    ¡°Flynn is daddy. Daddy is Flynn.¡± Rodrigo exined with hand gestures. I grumbled some curse words under my breath and If looks could kill, Rodrigo was ten feet under by now.

    ¡°Rodrigo, can you¡ª,¡± I closed Mn¡¯s ears with my hands and then shouted, ¡°Shut the fucking hell up!¡±

    Rodrigoughed out loud, but immediately stopped when Mn poked his finger on my chest. ¡°But mommy said that you were her friend boy.¡±

    Friend boy? What the fucking hell is that?

    Regrs. And now friend boy. My girlfriend¡¯s vocabry is really interesting.

    ¡°Do you mean boyfriend?¡± I asked confused.

    He shook his head wildly. ¡°No, friend boy. I told her I like you.¡±

    ¡°You do?¡± My heart skipped a beat. I could feel so many different kind of emotions right now and one of them was love. I love this kid.

    Damn.

    ¡°Yes, I like you. You bought a spiderman costume for me and then legos. You are the best daddy ever !¡± he jumped up and down myp as he pped happily in his hands.

    I cringed once again at the daddy-word.

    ¡°I like you too, but please don¡¯t call me daddy. Just call me Flynn.¡± I pleaded.

    ¡°But I don¡¯t want too.¡± he whined. ¡°I¡¯ll call you padre.¡±

    ¡°Padre?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s spanish for father.¡± he rified.

    ¡°I know what it means, bud. You can call me anything except daddy.¡±

    ¡°Okay, padre.¡± Mn grinned. He looked around at my desk and saw a pen. ¡°Can I draw?¡±

    ¡°I personally think padre sounds even more weird than daddy.¡± Rodrigo butted in. I forgot that he was still here.

    I red at him. ¡°Please don¡¯t give him anymore ideas.¡± I hissed and then looked back at Mn who was grabbing the pen and was about to draw on my desk.

    ¡°No, no,¡± I stopped him before he could draw on it. I opened my bottom drawer and got white paper out for him. ¡°Here you go. Draw on this paper, not on my table.¡±

    He took the paper out of my hand and started to draw weird circles and triangles. Suddenly my phone buzzed on my desk and I saw Jill¡¯s name on the screen.

    My Pudding: Hey Vasilios. You can pick us up now, we¡¯re done.

    Love you

 111

    I opened my eyes and groaned. The soreness between my legs made it impossible for me to immediately stand up. My eyes went to the right side of the bed, only to find it empty. I felt a painful jab in my heart. I thought we were making love. I thought he had said ¡®I love you.¡¯  But I guess when the morning came, he realized his mistake. After all, it was just a one night stand. No feelings involved. But why do I feel like my heart is shattering into tiny pieces?

    I shook my head wildly when a burning smell entered my nostrils. Shit, is the yacht on fire? I grabbed the white shirt that was under the bed and threw it over my head. It didn¡¯t even cover my whole butt, but now is not the time to look for shorts. Talking about shorts, I was wearing Calvin Klein mens boxers. How did I ended up in these? And where the hell is Flynn bytheway?

    I limped my way out of the room and the smell led me to the kitchen. When I entered the kitchen the strong smell of burned eggs greeted me. Flynn was running from the stove to the sink to stop the fire, that somehow reached the curtains.  When the fire finally extinguished, he turned around and look at me sheepishly. ¡°Sorry, I was just trying to be romantic.¡±

    I chuckled and made my way towards him. ¡°Really? By putting the yacht on fire?¡± He pulled me towards his bare chest and ced a kiss on my forehead. ¡°I was trying to make breakfast, but oh well. Good morning pudding. Have you slept well?¡±

    I nodded and buried my face in the crook of his neck. ¡°Yeah, I did. I¡¯m just sore.¡± I looked up at him and asked: ¡°Did I pass out?¡±

    He smirked and winked at me. A typical Vasilios thing to do. ¡°You did. The dick was that good huh?¡±

    My cheeks med up. ¡°Oh god.¡± I covered my face with my hand and Flynn bursted outughing. ¡°Don¡¯t be embarrassed, at least you can brag to your friends that your boyfriend¡¯s dick can let you see heaven.¡±

    ¡°Vasilios!¡± I yfully pushed him away and walked to the fridge to get a drink. I am so not having this conversation with him. I bent over to grab the lemonade and when I turned around Flynn¡¯s big boy was standing up pointing at my direction.

    I let out a loud groan and ignored it as I walked passed him to get a ss. ¡°You better get rid of your boner. I can barely walk right now.¡±

    ¡°Pudding.¡± He whined, looking at me with puppy dog eyes. ¡°One round?¡±

    ¡°Nope, we all know that one round leads into five.¡± I poured lemonade in the ss and took a big gulp of it. I didn¡¯t realize I was so thirsty. Probably from all the screamingst night.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°Blowjob?¡±

    I shook my head.

    ¡°Handjob?¡±

    I turned around and ced my hands on my waist. ¡°No, I¡¯m still tired. Maybe tonight.¡±

    His eyes lit up when I said thest part. ¡°Tonight? Oh hell yeah.¡±

    I rolled my eyes at his excitement. ¡°Don¡¯t get too excited. I can still change my mind.¡±

    ¡°You better not. Anyway, can you change into something else?¡±

    ¡°Why?¡± I asked, looking down at the white shirt I was wearing. It was big and short for me and that¡¯s when I realized it was Flynn¡¯s shirt. The one he wore the night before.

    ¡°Because it barely covers your butt and you¡¯re wearing my boxers. You¡¯re not helping to get rid of my boner.¡±

    I let out a loud sigh. ¡°Fine, I¡¯ll go take a shower. I want food when Ie back.¡±

    ¡°Everything for you pudding.¡± he walked over to me and spanked my butt. ¡°Because you will need energy for tonight.¡±

    I flipped my hair in his face as I was stroking the ce on my butt where he had spanked me. It stung. ¡°You¡¯re such a bad boy Vasilios!¡±

    ¡°I never said I was good.¡± He yelled outughing as I walked back to the bedroom. I closed the door and stripped down to get in the shower. After I was done, I wrapped myself in a towel and blow dried my hair in the bathroom mirror.

    I came out of the bathroom dressed in a oversized sweater and shorts. Ibed my hair and applied chapstick before making my way back to the kitchen. On my way back my eyes spotted a huge golden door and through the ss I could see shelves with books.

    My eyes widened at the sight and I immediately opened the door. I inhaled the sweetly fragrant vanillin smell of the books and let out a contented sigh. This was what I call heaven.

    Literally the same exact library I saw in the movie beauty and the beast. I always wanted to have one.

    The books reached the top of the ceiling and there weredders everywhere. I walked around the library, scanning the books. Some of them were old and some of them were new. There was also a desk in the corner of the room, stacked with books and book markers.

    I walked over to the desk and picked up the first book.

    A thousand Splendid Suns.

    I remembered when I was younger how I cried my heart out while reading this book. It¡¯s so well written and I couldn¡¯t get enough of it.

    I plopped down on the chair and went through the bookmarks. They were all of different shapes and they all had their own quotes. I wondered why Flynn never told me about the library. It was so beautiful with endless amounts of books.

    While I was picking up the books and read the summary, my eyes caught something silvery underneath a stack of papers. I removed the papers and my eyes widened in shock.

    No way.

    ###Chapter 18

    I was in a state of shock as my trembling fingers picked up the silver heart locket ne. The same exact one I had lost six years ago.

    Now everything I questioned, made sense.

    Flynn was the stranger.

    The stranger was Flynn.

    It was confirmed. My suspicion was right.

    But why? Why didn¡¯t he tell me? Why did he had to keep this a secret?

    I picked up the stack of papers and gulped when I saw my name in bold letters on top of  it. I read through it and I saw all my information. There were even pictures of me. Was Flynn stalking me? Is he a stalker? I shuddered at the thought of it only.

    I don¡¯t believe he is, but why did he have all these information about me?

    ¡°Pudding I¡ª¡± Flynn stepped into the room cheerfully with two trays of food. His cheerful mood immediately disappeared and his eyes widened when he saw what I was holding. ¡°I.. I mean I can exin.¡±

    I looked at the ne and then at him. ¡°So all this time, you knew?!¡±

    Jill Malik P. O. V

    I sat there frozen in shock, waiting for Flynn to open his mouth and exin.  I looked away, then looked back at my hand to see if it was still there. It was.

    The room was silent, the only thing you could hear was the breathing of the two of us.

    ¡°I¨CI¡¯m sorry,¡± he stammered looking away from me. ¡°I should have told you.¡± His voice cracked as he said that. I¡¯ve never saw him so nervous and scared in all the time I¡¯ve known him.

    ¡°And why didn¡¯t you tell me?¡± I took a deep breath after I asked that question. ¡°You thought it wasn¡¯t important for me?¡±

    Six years long I¡¯ve been living in misery, because I couldn¡¯t get over the one night stand. It was so hard to step into a rtionship, because every time I did, it failed. I couldn¡¯t let go and I hated myself for that.

    He looked back at me and I could see the guilt in his eyes. ¡°You couldn¡¯t remember me. I can¡¯t just barge into your life and be like ¡®oh hey, you are my one night stand. I love you.¡¯ Would you believe me?¡±

    I would definitely not believe him, at first.

    ¡°It¡¯s not that I forgot the one night stand. I didn¡¯t know who you were. I couldn¡¯t remember your face nor your name, because you left before I woke up plus I was wasted.¡± I fidget with the ne in my hand as I was trying to remain calm. ¡°You could have show me the ne and I would believe you.¡±

    ¡°And have you been keeping tabs on me? I asked further, referring to the papers with my information in it. There were three different papers that were all kept together by a broken paperclip. All of three had my information in it. How creepy.

    ¡°I was a coward, I should¡¯ve left you a note.¡± He sat down in front of me and covered his face with his hands. ¡°I knew that the night in Mn was more than a one night stand, but I thought I could forget about it and you would regret it in the morning. You were drunk after all. Drunk people always tend to regret the things they do once they sober up.¡±

    I shook my head. He thought so wrong. ¡°I haven¡¯t forgot and regret anything. Six yearster and I still can remember it like it had happened yesterday. But that¡¯s beside the point. The point is why haven¡¯t you told me. You saw me at Ximena¡¯s graduation and I¡¯m pretty sure you recognized me.¡±

    ¡°I thought the love was one sided. I thought you forgot about it and had already moved on.¡± he admitted.

    ¡°You thought too much.¡± I uttered.

    He let out a huge sigh, but didn¡¯t say anything.

    ¡°You know this is considered lying right?¡± I said, raising an eyebrow.

    ¡°What?!¡± Flynn eximed looking up at me with wide eyes while running his hand through his hair. ¡°How is it considered lying? You never asked so I never told you.¡±

    ¡°You remembered me and you chose not to tell me? For me, that¡¯s considered lying Vasilios. I don¡¯t care what you think, but you should¡¯ve told me the first time you met me and that was on Ximmy¡¯s graduation.¡± I catched my breath and continued, ¡°I don¡¯t know what to believe right now. This is something huge. It¡¯s my past and you kept it a secret from me.¡±

    ¡°I was afraid okay and I still am. I don¡¯t know how you would react and if you would run away from me. I fucked up and I know, but I need one more chance with you.¡± he whispered defeatedly.

    ¡°Exin these papers that have my name on it.¡± I sucked in a deep breath. His devastated look made my heart ache. ¡°You stalked me.¡±

    He shook his head. ¡°I didn¡¯t. I told my detective to do some research on you. When I got those papers I never went through them, otherwise I would have known about Mn right?¡±

    ¡± I don¡¯t know if  I should be happy or angry right now. My feelings are all mixed up.¡± I leaned back on the chair and let out a deep sigh. So much information in one morning.

    ¡°I¡¯m so¡ª Wait, did you just say happy?¡± he looked up at me and his eyes twinkled.

    ¡°I said happy or angry.¡±

    ¡°That means you¡¯re happy you found me?¡± he asked surprised.

    I looked at him with a questioning look. Why was he so surprised, I mean isn¡¯t it obvious how relieved I am right now. ¡°Is that even a question? Of course.¡±

    ¡°Which means you didn¡¯t regret the one night stand?¡±

    I shook my head at his question. ¡°Not at all. You made freaking love with me, why would you think I would regret it?¡±

    Flynn facepalmed himself and groaned inwardly. ¡°If only I could¡¯ve read your mind, things wouldn¡¯t get soplicated.¡±

    ¡°How so?¡± I asked wonderingly.

    ¡°I always thought that you would run away.¡± he admitted.

    ¡°And why is that?¡± I questioned, and then continued, ¡°That¡¯s why I always saymunication is the key. You shouldmunicate with me. I will not just disappear out of your life.¡±

    ¡°Really? You will not?¡±

    ¡°Of course not silly.¡± I stood up and walked over to him. ¡°I¡¯m not mad, I¡¯m just really disappointed at you for not telling me about this. I¡¯ve been breaking my head for years to find out who you were.¡±

    ¡°Did you figured it out?¡± he asked, pulling me into hisp. ¡°I mean did you got my hints?¡±

    ¡°Hints? Well not really. Some things you did or some things you said, reminded me about that night. But something just didn¡¯t add up. And that was you, your lie, and the ne.¡±

    ¡°Stop referring to it as a lie.¡± he grunted,cing his fingers with mine.

    ¡°It is a lie. Even though I didn¡¯t asked you, you know that I was the one. But you just pretended to not know me. You pretended like we have never met.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡± He apologized once again.

    I sighed and gave him a peck on his lips. ¡°It¡¯s okay. You¡¯re forgiven. I¡¯m d I finally solved this mystery.¡±

    Flynn smiled widely and kissed the tip of my nose. ¡°Thank you pudding.¡±

    ¡°That wasn¡¯t hard, was it?¡± I asked, looking into his bright blue eyes.

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Admitting that you were my one night stand. Telling the truth. Communicate like normal couples do.¡±

    He pinched my thighs and I let out a yelp. I red at him and he chuckled. ¡°No, it wasn¡¯t. But I was scared that it would be only one sided. I was scared to lose you¡­ Again.¡±

    I squeezed his hand. ¡°I¡¯m still here. I promise, you will not get rid of me that easily.¡±

    Heughed. ¡°That¡¯s my pudding. Do you want to have breakfast now?¡±

    ¡°What do we have for breakfast?¡±

    ¡°You.¡± he blurted out.

    I looked at him dead in the eye and heughed. ¡°Just kidding, since I burned those eggs I told my maid to get us some fruit sd, froyo, and vani pudding.¡±

    Flynn handed me the bowl with fruit sd. ¡°It¡¯s a berries and banana fruit sd, I hope you like it.¡±

    Before I start eating I looked back at Flynn. There was one question, I forgot to ask. He noticed me staring at him and cocked an eyebrow. ¡°Yes?¡±

    I cleared my throat before asking him the question. I hope It will not sound awkward. ¡°So about the one night stand. How did I pass out?¡±

    A sly smirk made its way to his face. ¡°Because the dick was that good, pudding.¡±

    My face turned fifty shades of red and I immediately regretted that I asked that question.

    Oh god !

    Jill Malik P. O. V

    ¡°I told you!¡± Reina yelled as she jumped off the counter and hit the table with her hips. I could hear the loud thud, but she didn¡¯t even flinch. Instead she ran towards me squealing like a mad woman. Her bright orange dress was stuck between the crack of her butt and she didn¡¯t even bother to pull it out. ¡°Oh god! I can¡¯t believe this world is so small!¡±

    When I arrived home yesterday, Reina knew exactly what had happened the night before. Not that I was hiding it or anything. First of all I was walking limp and my neck was showered with hickeys. Second of all, I was wearing Flynn¡¯s clothes, just because It was painful and exhausting to wiggle into a pair of jeans. She immediately asked me to spill everything, but I told her to wait until tonight, because I was just worn out. I needed a warm bath and at least twenty hours of sleep.

    ¡°Can you please calm down.¡± I pushed her away from me as I held the hot spat as my weapon to defend myself from her. ¡°There¡¯s no need to act crazy.¡±

    ¡°Really?!¡± She yelled out totally out of breath. ¡°You found the guy you had a one night stand with. And he happened to be your boyfriend ! That¡¯s a miracle !¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not. I told you already, Flynn knew about it all along.¡± I turned around to the stove and continue frying the chicken. The spat didn¡¯t really help to turn the chicken around since it wasn¡¯t the right kitchen tool to do it, but I was toozy to search for the right one, so I might as well make this work. It was midnight and I was already in bed when I was craving homemade fries with fried chicken.

    I ced the fries and chicken on a te and walked to the fridge to get ketchup and mayonnaise when my phone suddenly vibrated in my back pocket. I quickly ced the ketchup and mayonnaise on the counter and grabbed my phone out of my pocket. I opened the message and a smile crept on my face.

    My day has been hectic, it¡¯s been non stop meetings and I never got to see you. It was hard but the thought of falling asleep without saying goodnight to you was unbearable. Goodnight, sleep tight, I can¡¯t wait until the next time I see you pudding.

    I smiled as I typed a reply back.  He could be so adorably sweet sometimes. Best part? I¡¯m the only one he shows that side of him.

    You¡¯re in my heart tonight, tomorrow and forever. Sweet dreams, Vasilios.

    And I could also be really cheesy and lovey-dovey.

    I ced my phone back in my pocket and sighed dreamily at the thought of him. Early this morning he had texted me that he would be busy all day, because he would have investors from Dubai and Japan over at his office.

    ¡°You¡¯re so in love, I actually want to vomit.¡± Reina walked into the kitchen and snapped her fingers in my face. ¡°Are we still going to watch riverdale?¡±

    I rolled my eyes at her and grabbed my food and drink. ¡°Yes, let¡¯s go.¡± I walked passed her to the living room and plopped down on the couch. I saw that Reina had put the episode on pause. ¡°You watched half of it without me?¡± I shouted at her. I heard her walking out of the kitchen.

    ¡°Yes.¡± She replied as she sat down next to me with a huge bag of doritos. ¡°You were so long in the kitchen, staring dreamily at the kitchen sink.¡±

    ¡°I was not!¡±

    ¡°Of course not.¡± she replied sarcastically and pressed the y button.

    ¡°No!¡± I yelled out, grabbing the remote from her. ¡°Let¡¯s watch it from the beginning.¡±

    ¡°What?¡± she eximed, trying to steal the remote from me. ¡°No, I¡¯ll fill you in what had happened.¡±

    ¡°No, I want to see it.¡± I pressed the backwards button and Reina groaned and threw a pillow at me.

    ¡°Ugh Mrs. Vasilios, you¡¯re so annoying.¡±

    I grinned and nudged her from the side. ¡°I¡¯m not married yet, Rei.¡±

    ¡°Oh, but soon you will be.¡± she wiggled her eyebrows at me and winked.

    I just rolled my eyes at her and chuckled. I focused my attention back on the tv while eating fries.

    ¡°Bytheway, I¡¯m going to Italy.¡± Reina suddenly said.

    ¡°Really?!¡± I was so happy for her that she will finally meet the rest of Luca¡¯s family. She was talking about it a lot for the past few days. ¡°Is it to meet his family?¡±

    She shook her head and bit her bottom lip. ¡°Actually no. I¡¯m¡­ I¡¯m going to school there.¡±

    ¡°School?¡± I asked surprised. I thought she said she was done with school.

    ¡°Yes, uhm I will study Italian at the Dante alighieri Siena school. It¡¯s a multinational learning center of Language, Culture and Gastronomy which offers Italian courses.¡±

    ¡°Wow.¡± I breathed out unbelievably. ¡°You¡¯re actually going to school again?¡±

    She chuckled lightly and nodded her head in confirmation. ¡°It¡¯s hard to believe, I know. But on the other hand, I would like to learn more about my boyfriend¡¯snguage and culture.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s basically rtionship goals.¡±

    ¡°I know right!¡± Reinaughed. ¡°He takes online portuguese lessons. It¡¯s so funny to watch him struggle.¡±

    ¡°So if you¡¯re going to move to Italy, that means you¡¯re going to move out from here forever?¡± I asked panicky. To pay the rent of this apartment alone would be hard for me. It was a very expensive apartment and even though Reina and I split the rent it still was a lot of money.

    ¡°Yes, but don¡¯t worry. I don¡¯t think I will move out until December. You will have all the time to find a new apartment.¡± she assured me.

    ¡°Oh great, because I was already panicking. Anyway, are you going to live with Luca?¡±

    ¡°Yeah.¡± She replied smiling. ¡°The school is in Siena, Tuscany. Luckily Luca has a penthouse there where we are going to stay.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s amazing Rei, I¡¯m so happy for you.¡± I gave her a side hug. ¡°Hey!¡± I yelled out as I catched her sneakily grabbing a handful of fries of my te.

 112

    ¡°Ouch!¡± She yelled and threw the fries on her pajama pants. ¡°It¡¯s so hot!¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s what you get when you¡¯re stealing my fries.¡± I snickered.

    She red at me as she rubbed her hands together. She then picked up the fries from her pajama pants and ate them.

    I turned my attention back towards the TV and saw that I forgot to press pause when I was talking to Reina.

    Now I still haven¡¯t seen the first part of the episode. I sighed and pressed the backwards button again.

    ¡°Hey!¡± Reina shouted knocking the remote out of my hand. It fell with a loud thud on the floor and the TV went ck.

    ¡°Look what you did.¡± I said usatory looking at the broken remote on the floor. ¡°Now we can¡¯t even finish the episode.¡±

    ¡­¡­.

    Flynn Vasilios

    I closed myptop and sighed tiredly. Last night I stayed up till midnight to finish a powerpoint I needed to present to investors from Dubai and Japan. I had brought my work to the yacht, but I couldn¡¯t focus since there was a major distraction there. And by major distraction I mean Jill.

    She was literally walking around in skimpyce dresses or my shirts that were twice her size. She wasn¡¯t giving Flynn Jr. rest, but not that I wasining.  I was so happy that I could finally got the long kept secret off my chest. I was so surprised that she didn¡¯t run away or threw a tantrum. In fact she handled it so calm even though I could see that she was freaking the fuck out.

    My office door opened and Rodrigo sauntered in with his jacket over his shoulder followed by his PA, Meghan. ¡°Good morning Mr. Vasilios.¡± Meghan greeted politely.

    I nodded at her and looked over at Rodrigo who was making himselffortable on the chair. He turned around to dismiss his PA and then looked back at me. ¡°Have you read the email I send you?¡±

    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s interesting but risky.¡± I said, looking at him from head to toe. His hair was disheveled and some buttons on his white shirt were missing. Someone gotid. I wonder who the lucky girl was.ConTEent bel0ngs to N?v(e)lD/rama(.)Org .

    ¡°It is, but the profit you will make will be insane.¡±

    ¡°True, but looking at how things are now, the project will probably take up to five or six years. And I¡¯m already doing three different projects now.¡± I scratched my head. It was a really great opportunity, but priorities came first. ¡°You can do it if you want.¡±

    He shook his head. ¡°I don¡¯t think so. It¡¯s not the kind of project I like to do.¡±

    ¡°Oh well, there will be someone somewhere who will be happy to do the project then.¡± I leaned back on my chair and swung my feet on the table. I looked at my watch and saw that I still have an hour left before the meeting starts.

    ¡°I heard you confessed.¡± Rodrigo smirked, looking at me amused.

    ¡°Actually I didn¡¯t, she found the ne in the library.¡±

    Rodrigo eyes widened. ¡°She didn¡¯t!¡±

    ¡°Oh, she did.¡± I answered calmly.

    ¡°Why are you so calm about it?¡± He shouted. ¡°Isn¡¯t she like mad right now?¡±

    I chuckled at his reaction. ¡°Well, I thought she would go batshit crazy and dramatic, but to my surprise she was so fucking casual about it.¡±

    ¡°What?! You¡¯re kidding me.¡±

    ¡°Nope.¡± I saidughing. ¡°She was understanding. If I knew she would react like that, I would have told her much earlier.¡±

    ¡°I told you. She¡¯s a keeper. I wonder what you did to dese¡ª,¡± Rodrigo got interrupted when my office door opened again. I thought it was Meghan, but the person I saw there was the one I least expected.

    Wasn¡¯t she suppose to be in Russia?

    ¡°Zoe?¡±

    ¡°Hey Flynn, long time no see.¡± Zoe smiled, as she made her way towards me. ¡°What¡¯s your minion doing here?¡± She red at Rodrigo, who on his turn let out a loud disapproving sound.

    ¡°What¡¯s the bitch doing here?¡± Rodrigo asked mockingly. ¡°Aren¡¯t you supposed to be with your sugar daddy in Russia?¡±

    ¡°Rodrigo!¡± I warned and shifted my attention back to Zoe. ¡°What brought you back here?¡±

    ¡°The meeting.¡± She replied and sat on my desk, her back facing Rodrigo.

    ¡°Meeting?¡± I asked, scrunching my eyebrows.

    ¡°Yes. My boyfriend Omar has a meeting with you. He decided to bring me along.¡± she rified and smiled widely. ¡°He¡¯s such a sweetheart.¡±

    I stared wide eyed at her. ¡°What happened to the Russian?¡±

    ¡°Oh him? His wife found out.¡± She replied casually. ¡°Bytheway I heard you have a girlfriend. That¡¯s so unlike you.¡±

    ¡°Well unlike you I¡¯m tired of fucking random people. It¡¯s time I settle down.¡±

    Zoeughed loudly. ¡°You¡¯re kidding me right?¡±

    I shook my head and I heard Rodrigo snicker from behind her. ¡°Nope, I¡¯m not joking.¡±

    Zoe abruptly stoppedughing and her face turned sour. ¡°Who¡¯s she?¡±

    ¡°Her name is Jill.¡± Rodrigo answered smugly.

    The look on Zoe¡¯s face when Rodrigo said Jill¡¯s name had me dying. She looked like she was about to explode. I could see the redness of her face through the thickyer of foundation she had on.

    ¡°You are with that bitch?!¡± She screeched and jumped off my desk. ¡°I can¡¯t believe you did that to me!¡±

    The moment she called Jill a bitch, my whole body started to became rigid. No one is calling my pudding names, especially not females. I immediately stood up and angrily pressed my finger against her chest.

    ¡°One more bad word about my girlfriend and the deal with your so called boyfriend will be off.¡± I hissed furiously as I stared her right in her eyes. I can¡¯t believe I had called her my best friend once.

    Zoe¡¯s eyes widened and she started to panick. ¡°No, leave him alone !¡±

    I smirked contentedly. ¡°Now, get the hell out of my office. Your presence is not wanted here.¡±

    She immediately turned around and walked out of my office, but before she closed the door behind her she looked back at me. There was no anger visible in her eyes, instead it was reced with sadness. The sad look on her face had me worried for a split second, but it was reced with anger the next minute. She called Jill names and no one calls my pudding names in front of me without knowing the consequences.

    ¡°I remember when we used to be best friends. Sometimes I wished that we didn¡¯t had to be fuck buddies. But that¡¯s just the closest I could get to you. Seeing you with others¡­ I acted like it wasn¡¯t a big deal, when really it was breaking my heart. But, I wish you all the best with that¡­ that thing.¡± Zoe took a deep breath and closed the door , leaving me and Rodrigo astonished behind.

    Jill Malik P. O. V

    ¡°No, that tree is huge ! Do you really want that big of a christmas tree?¡± I eyed the humongous christmas tree that Flynn was nning to buy. No scratch that, he already got his credit card out. He looked at me and grinned. ¡°The bigger, the better pudding. You know it.¡±

    I rolled my eyes and shook my head. He said the same thing about the turkey, the presents, and the chandelier for the dining room. This year we decided we would organize the family christmas dinner and so far it went pretty great, except for the fact that Flynn only want to purchase stuff that are way too big and expensive. I don¡¯t mind, he has the money, but he could donate that to charity or the soup kitchen. I think I should bring that up tonight, at least the money will go towards a good cause.

    The past five months were a bliss and it almost seemed so surreal. I still can¡¯t believe our rtionship is actually working and that Flynn totally changed from womanizer to amazing boyfriend. Of course we had our asional couple fights -the biggest one was the one about Zoe-, but that only made our rtionship stronger. He had a hard time with the wholemunication thing, because if it wasn¡¯t of Rodrigo Flynn wouldn¡¯t have told me about Zoe showing up in his office. Luckily he learned from his past mistakes and that the only way this rtionship will work is when hemunicate with me so there wouldn¡¯t be any misunderstandings between us.

    Reina and I didn¡¯t live together anymore. Last month we sold the apartment to a newly-wed couple. Reina moved in with Luca in his condo in New York, but currently she¡¯s in Italy. The house in Italy needed to be cleaned and ready for when they will move in. And that will be after Christmas. They wanted to spend Christmas in the states, with us.

    ¡°Do we need to buy groceries?¡± Flynn asked as we walked back to the car. I tightened my shawl around my neck and rubbed my hands together. My ears were frozen, because I wasn¡¯t wearing my earwarmers. I gave the huge christmas tree onest nce, before it was loaded on the truck. It will be delivered in the evening at the mansion.

    ¡°No, we¡¯re having the catering remember?¡± I reminded him about the dinner of tomorrow night. I decided to hire a catering for the dinner tomorrow, because my cooking skills aren¡¯t that great yet.

    ¡°I didn¡¯t mean for dinner, but for tomorrow¡¯s breakfast.¡± he said rifying.

    ¡°Oh no, it¡¯s alright. There¡¯s stuff in the fridge we can make breakfast with.¡± I said, stepping in the car.

    Flynn started the engine of his bugatti and we drove back home. It was heavily snowing in New York and everywhere you go there were people doingst minute christmas shopping. Good thing, I did mine two weeks in advance.

    We arrived back at the mansion and the lights were already on. Yesterday Flynn and I decorated the outside of the mansion with christmas lights and this morning the gardener decorated the garden and the garage. It turned out very beautiful.

    ¡°I¡¯m going to my office, I¡¯ll see you at dinner.¡± Flynn said after he had unloaded everything out of the car. He removed a strand of hair from my face and kissed me on my forehead sending shivers down my spine. It always happens when he kisses my forehead.

    ¡°Okay, what do you want for dinner?¡± I asked, letting go of his upper arm.

    ¡°Whatever you feel like making, pudding.¡± He answered smiling and walked upstairs to his office. He had his own office at home for when he couldn¡¯t make it to the office of hispany.

    I walked into the kitchen to see what there was in the fridge. I only moved in here two weeks ago and I literally know where everything is ced. When I moved in here for the first time and I asked Flynn where the tes were, he just stared at me and shrugged. ¡°Don¡¯t know.¡± He said and looked around helplessly. It took us a good ten minutes to find out where the tes were.

    I opened the cupboard and foundsagna noodles. Mmh, maybesagna does sound good for tonight. I got the ground beef out of the freezer that I bought yesterday and started to prepare dinner with the help of youtube and a cookbook I found in the library of Flynn¡¯s yacht.

    I ced thesagna in the oven when the doorbell ringed. I wiped my hand on a table cloth and hurried to open the front door. When I opened the door there was the truck with our huge christmas tree. I guess the gardener let them in.

    ¡°Ma¡¯am, can you please sign this?¡± The driver came up to me with his aplices and handed me a cheque to sign. I signed it quickly and gave him back. I read his name tag and it said Rob. He did look like a Rob. Bulky, a lot of muscles, and facial hair.

    ###Chapter 19

    ¡°You guys are going to ce it inside, right?¡± I asked, eyeing the huge christmas tree that will probably take most of the space in the living room.

    ¡°Yes.¡± he answered kindly and motioned towards two other bulky looking guys. ¡°They are here to help me. You can just continue what you were doing, we will make sure that the Christmas tree will be perfectly setup for you.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s great, If you need anything I¡¯ll be in the kitchen.¡± I said and walked back into the kitchen to check on mysagna.

    I was about to open the oven when my phone beeped on the counter. I grabbed it and checked who messaged me.

    Do I need to bring sd tomorrow? ¨C Reina

    No, I just need yours and Luca¡¯s presence.

    I haven¡¯t seen Reina in almost a month. Since the day we sold the apartment. The past few weeks we both were so busy with moving our stuff. Me to Flynn¡¯s mansion and she to Italy.

    Someone cleared their throat behind me and I turned around, startled. I let out a breath of relieve when I saw it was just Flynn.

    ¡°Yes? Are you done with work?¡± I asked as I made my way towards him and kissed him on his lips. For some reasons, I couldn¡¯t stop kissing him on his lips. It was like a kind of addiction.

    ¡°Yeah, I just came downstairs to see where all the noise came from.¡± He said, cing his hands on my shoulder. ¡°The christmas tree arrived. Do you like it?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s big, but It will be pretty if we decorate it.¡± I said, joyfully.

    ¡°Do you want to do it tonight?¡± He asked, his eyes sparkling as he heard the happiness in my voice. We walked to the living room to see how the men were doing.

    ¡°Yes, that would be great.¡±

    When we stepped in the living room I let out a gasp as I saw how many stuff they had to move to ce the tree.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡± One of the bulky men with red hair apologized. ¡°We had to move some furniture.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s okay.¡± I said, looking at the mess they made. I think I will have to call the housekeeper tomorrow to help me arrange the living room again. Or maybe Flynn could help me with it too. I didn¡¯t want to bother the housekeeper, because she also had a family she want to spent christmas with.

    ¡°The tree is already set up. Have a very nice evening Mr. and Mrs. Vasilios.¡± The other bulky men with caterpir eyebrows said and motioned at the others that they were done.

    ¡°Thank you, Rob.¡± Flynn gave the bulky men with the muscles, who I assume is the boss of the other two, a handshake and he escorted them outside. When he came back into the living room he held a huge box in his hands.

    ¡°What is that?¡± I asked curious.

    ¡°Decorations for the tree.¡± He said and ced the box on the table. I walked over to him to see what kind of decorations was in the box. There were all kinds of ornaments, gands, bears, stars, reindeers, etcetera.

    ¡°Did you buy these?¡± I asked, taking out a beautiful reindeer out of the box.

    ¡°No, mom gave this to us.¡±

    Flynn¡¯s mom was so nice. When I moved in with Flynn she gave us so many stuff for the house. Luckily she did, because most part of the house was empty and the curtains in the living room didn¡¯t match the furniture.

    Flynn stood up to turn on the radio and put the heater on high. Outside it was snowing heavily and even with the heater so high, it was still a little chilly inside.

    The voice of Bruno Mars filled the room. Versace on the floor  was ying on the radio and I remembered how I used to jam on this song in the bathroom. It was my favorite song. Reina always yelled at me that she was sick of hearing this song.

    ? Let¡¯s take our time tonight, girl

    Above us all the stars are watchin¡¯  ?

    I started to softly sing along as I got the decorations out of the box. I was so excited to start decorating the tree.

    ? There¡¯s no ce I¡¯d rather be in this world

    Your eyes are where I¡¯m lost in?

    I didn¡¯t realize Flynn was watching me intently all the time until I felt his warm breath fanning my neck.

    ¡°I didn¡¯t know you were a singer.¡± He whispered, kissing my shoulders.

    ¡°Bathroom singer.¡± I chuckled and turned around to ce a gand around his neck. His pretty blue eyes shone so brightly under the light of the chandelier in the living room.

    ? So, baby, let¡¯s just turn down the lights and close the door

    Ooh, I love that dress, but you won¡¯t need it anymore ?

    We rocked back and forth as he kept looking in my eyes while I was softly singing along. He knew that his eyes were my weakness. He just had to stare at me intently and I would immediately give in to him.

    ? No, you won¡¯t need it no more

    Let¡¯s just kiss ¡¯til we¡¯re naked, baby?

    Flynn licked his lips as I sang that part and smirked. ¡°I¡¯m so ready pudding.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s just a song Vasilios.¡± I replied andughed as I felt his grip on my waist tighten.

    ¡°A song with a very very naughty meaning.¡±

    His hand traveled down towards my butt and he gently squeezed it. A typical Vasilios thing to do. His dad was the same. He always secretly squeezed his mom¡¯s bum and in return she gave him a scowl.

    ? Versace on the floor

    Ooh, take it off for me, for me, for me, for me now, girl ?

    ¡°You don¡¯t wear versace, but I would mind seeing tommy hilfiger on the floor.¡± he said teasingly, referring to my tommy hilfiger shirt.

    Iughed loudly and ced my head on his shoulder as we danced on the rhythm of the song. It felt so good to be like this. The warmth of his body and his aftershave got me lost in the moment.

    And at this moment I realized how much I actually love him.

    How much I had missed this¡­ him  in the past six years.

    It¡¯s scary how much I love him yet my love for him would never fade out. Instead every day it grows and bes stronger.

    He¡¯s my soulmate.

    And maybe we haven¡¯t met in a fairy tale kind of way, but then again this is real life and in real life you have to create your own fairy tale.

    I felt a soft kiss pressed on top of my head and I instantly melted.

    He sure knows how to bring me to cloud nine and back.

    Suddenly a burning smell filled the living room, followed by the sound of the screeching fire rm.

    My eyes grew wide and a bunch of curse words left my mouth.

    I instantly let go of Flynn and ran to the kitchen. ck smoke came out of the oven.

    Shit. Shit. I totally forgot thesagna!

 113

    Flynn Vasilios P. O. V

    I tried to fixed my bow tie as I walked into the bedroom where Jill was changing. When I entered the room my eyes almost fell out of there sockets.

    My pudding look like an angel.

    She stood in front of the mirror, applying mascara to hershes. The dress she was wearing entuated her curves and brought out her pretty blue-green eyes. She looked so pretty I don¡¯t think i¡¯ll be able to take my eyes off her tonight.

    ¡°You look gorgeous.¡± I walked up to her and ce a kiss on her temple. She still felt like a dream to me. I can¡¯t believe I have her in my arms after so many years and I¡¯m definitely not nning on letting her go.

    Not now.

    Not ever.

    ¡°Thanks Vasilios, you look handsome too.¡± She turned around and ced a kiss on my lips. She then giggled and wiped the lipstick stain off my lips. ¡°Mmh, I see you wore the outfit I picked out for you.¡±

    I smiled and looked down at my outfit. It was a white cotton shirt with blue vest and jeans. ¡°Of course, You¡¯re my girlfriend soon to be wife. I should obey you.¡±

    Her eyes widened and her smile turned into a scowl. ¡°Don¡¯t make jokes like that.¡±

    ¡°What do you mean?¡± I asked confused.

    ¡°Soon to be wife. It feels like you¡¯re proposing.¡± She turned around and reapplied her lipstick.

    ¡°What if I¡¯m not.¡± I watch her reaction through the mirror.

    ¡°Then it should be better than this. I know you can do better than this.¡± She winked at me and walked out of the bedroom. ¡°I will see you downstairs, darling.¡±

    My heart skipped a beat when she said thest part. This is the first time she called me anything else than Vasilios. It was damn time for a change.

    I watch her walking out of the room. Her hips swaying from left to right at each step she took. She was the kind of girl I could only dream about.ConTEent bel0ngs to N?v(e)lD/rama(.)Org .

    Sweet, nice, caring, and loving. And a little bit of freakiness.

    She was everything I need and so much more. Jill deserved the world and I¡¯m ready to give her that. She was an angel that brought the good out in me.

    I walked into the walk-in closet and squatted down to open the secret drawer behind the mirror. Jill didn¡¯t know this drawer exist. Lucky me, because I ran out of ideas where to hide this.

    I stared at the red velvet box. It was in this drawer for almost a month now and I could not wait to see it on Jill.

    But I was not going to give it to her yet. I needed the perfect moment for this.

    I ced the box back in the drawer and sighed heavily. I was already so nervous and it was not even happening yet. I closed the door of the walk-in closet and headed downstairs to help Jill with dinner.

    ¡­¡­.

    Jill Malik P. O. V

    Flynn and I were busy helping the caterers to put everything in ce when the doorbell rang. ¡°I¡¯ll get it.¡± Flynn said and walked out of the kitchen to open the door. I continued doing my work when I suddenly heard. ¡°Pudding, tia is here!¡±

    My eyes widened and I ran out of the kitchen. Aunt Lydia and Mn were standing in the foyer with a huge smile on their faces. ¡°Tia, Mn!¡± I hugged Aunt Lydia firmly and then squatted down to Mn to ce kisses all over his face. ¡°How was the flight?¡± I was so happy they finally arrived. I had been waiting and thinking about them all day.

    ¡°The flight was pleasant. No problems at all.¡± she said smiling and then looked at Flynn. ¡°Your private jet is amazing. I¡¯m so happy you take good care of Jill.¡±

    ¡°Actually,¡± Flynn said, chuckling nervously. I can¡¯t believe he¡¯s nervous around my aunt. ¡°She¡¯s the one that takes care of me.¡± He ced his hand possessively around my waist and looked down at Mn who was staring at the huge christmas tree in the living room. ¡°Did you brought a girlfriend with you to kiss under the mistletoeter, bud?¡±

    I elbowed him and he groaned in pain. How can he say that to a six year old boy? ¡°God pudding, no need to be so violent.¡±

    I turned my attention back to Aunt Lydia. ¡°Let¡¯s go to the kitchen. I was helping the caterers to put everything ready for dinner.¡± I then looked at Flynn who was still in pain and smiled sweetly at him. ¡°Darling, can you entertain Mn while me and tia are doing the final touches for dinner.¡±

    Flynn nodded and took Mn¡¯s hand to bring him to the living room. Aunt Lydia and I then walked to the kitchen and that¡¯s when I noticed she was limping instead of walking. There was also a bandage on her foot.

    ¡°Tia, what happened to your foot?¡± I asked, worried. When I called her she didn¡¯t mention getting injured.

    ¡°Oh don¡¯t worry about that.¡± she chuckled. ¡°I just stepped on lego.¡±

    I facepalmed myself. I knew all those boxes of lego wasn¡¯t a good idea.

    ¡­¡­.

    Later on the night Flynn¡¯s parents arrived, Luca and Reina, and atst Ximena and Rodrigo. Lately Ximena and Rodrigo had spent an awful amount of time together. They even went on a vacation to Bali, Indonesia in November. I wonder if they are in a rtionship, but they both have denied it. ¡°We are just friends!¡± they always said in unison.

    When everyone arrived we started dinner. There was a lot of food. There was chicken drumsticks and vegetables in mustard tarragon sauce, garlic and herb roasted turkey, macaroni and cheese, roasted sweet potatoes, mashed sweet potatoes, cheesecake, roasted garlic bread, and bacon potatoes.

    The food was delicious and I might consider to hire this catering service the next time when we are having a party. During dinner we talked about a lot of stuff. Ximena and Rodrigo talked about their holiday weekend in Bali. If one would not know, they would think they were a couple. Rodrigo seemed so caring for Ximena and I¡¯m pretty sure Ximena is the one who¡¯s friendzoning him. I probably should talk to her about her feelings towards Rodrigo. I know that now she has trust issues, because of that jerk ke but I think she need to give Rodrigo a chance.

    Then Mn entertained us with his story about this girl he liked at school and how she was mad at him, because he didn¡¯t wanted to share his cupcake with her. ¡°But mommy,¡± he said sweetly and looked at me with cheesecake on his tiny nose. ¡°It was myst cupcake and now she¡¯s mad at me.¡±

    I chuckled and wiped the cheesecake off his nose. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, when you go back to school, she will not be mad at you anymore.¡± My little boy is growing so fast, he¡¯s already getting infatuated. It will only take a couple of years before he will fall in love and will introduce me to his girlfriend. I just hope he will not turn into a heartbreaker.

    ¡°Really?¡± he asked surprised.

    I nodded. ¡°Of course, if she likes you back, she cannot stay mad at you.¡±

    ¡°Like your friend boy and you?¡± He still called Flynn my friend boy.

    ¡°Yes bud.¡± Flynn answered grinning and ruffled his hair. ¡°Like mommy and I. Take notes bud.¡±

    Everyoneughed. We had such a great family time and after a long time I feltplete. I finally had my life together. All the times that I was scrolling through my instagram feed in the past and seeing quotes about getting your life together, I think this is the moment. My moment.

    I was surrounded by the people I love and adored. Flynn¡¯s parents were so nice towards me and they epted me with open arms. They often made pregnancy and wedding jokes which earned them a re from Flynn.

    After dinner we went to the living room to y board games and watch a movie. I turned on the bluetooth on my phone and it connected with the speaker in the room. Music was sting through the small speaker and Ximena and Reina held a karaoke contest. I joined them and together we sang mistletoe from Justin bieber and Santa tell me from Ariana Grande.

    Unexpectedly I felt warm liquid in my underwear. It wasn¡¯t suppose toe this early. Oh god, it can¡¯t be happening right now!

    I excused myself and ran upstairs to the bathroom. When I pulled down my underwear I cursed inwardly. Why does it need to happen right now when I ran out of pads and forgot to buy some. I covered my face and sighed deeply. What the hell should I do? I¡¯m not going back downstairs like this. And I will definitely not use toilet paper as emergency pads, because I did that in the past and it just ended up horribly disgusting.

    I don¡¯t know how long I sat on the toilet, but suddenly I heard a faint knock on the bathroom door. ¡°Pudding, are you alright?¡± Flynn asked, worried.

    ¡°No,¡± I squeaked. ¡°It¡¯s my time of the month and I forgot to buy pads.¡±

    It was silent for a couple of seconds and then I heard Flynn ask, ¡°Do you want me to buy you some?¡±

    ¡°That would be nice, Vasilios.¡± I answered back. I couldn¡¯t stay in here forever.

    ¡°Okay, stay here. I¡¯ll be back in a couple of minutes.¡± I heard him walking in the room, probably looking for his wallet and then I heard the bedroom door close.

    Fifteen minutes went by and the bathroom door opened and Flynn appeared with in his hand a  blue stic bag. ¡°Most stores were closed. The one that was open, didn¡¯t had pads. So I bought tampons. The man who work there said it was the same.¡±

    Tampons and pads are not the same. But oh well, atleast he went out to buy them for me. ¡°Thank you darling, but tampons and pads are not the same. But I¡¯ll make it work.¡± I nted a kiss on his cheeks. ¡°You¡¯re so sweet!¡±

    ¡°Everything for you pudding.¡± He smiled and caressed my tummy. ¡°You¡¯re not in pain right? I mean I heard a lot about period cramps and how bad they can be.¡±

    Iughed softly and my insides melted at how worried he sound. Every time I was on my period he treated me like I was pregnant. He didn¡¯t allow me to work and let me stay in bed. I told him so many times that it was not that bad, but he just chose not to believe me. ¡°No darling, it does not hurt at all. Don¡¯t worry.¡±

    ¡°Well then, I¡¯ll be downstairs if you need anything.¡± He ced a kiss on my forehead and walked out of the bathroom.

    I closed the bathroom door and let out a sigh as I looked at the package in my hand. How the hell do you insert a tampon? I would have called Ximena or Reina upstairs, but from what I could hear they were having a lot of fun. I didn¡¯t want to ruin it just to ask them one stupid question.

    I opened the pack with tampons and stared at it for a while. Do you just push it in? I grabbed my phone from the sink and opened the youtube app. There must be a tutorial on there about how to insert tampons.

    I quickly watch the video and inserted the tampon as how it was instructed. I washed my hands and walked downstairs. When I entered the living room everyone was staring at me wide eyed.

    ¡°What?¡± I asked as they kept staring at me. Ximena and Reina tried to hold in theirughter while Flynn and Rodrigo looked pale.

    ¡°Honey, have you turned off your bluetooth while you were watching that video?¡± Flynn¡¯s mom asked, trying to hold in herughter.

    My eyes turned wide in horror and I immediately turned on my phone and saw that the bluetooth option was still on.

    Oh god ! I covered my face that turned red like a cherry. The whole room had heard the tampon video through the speaker !

    ¡°Merry embarrassing christmas Jill.¡± I whispered to myself as everyone bursted outughing.

    Flynn walked over to me and wrapped his arms around me.

    ¡°It¡¯s fine pudding.¡± he chuckled. ¡°Now we all know how to insert a tampon.¡±

    Jill Malik P. O. V

    The warm ball of light filtered through my eyelids and awoke me on the second day of our vacation. Rays of brightness cast squares onto the floor, reflecting onto several objects in the room which decorated its otherwise simplicity.  I opened my eyes and let out a yawn. I looked to my right and Flynn was still sleeping peacefully. Of course he would, especially afterst night. He has  a lot of stamina and he could go all night long. I rubbed the sore spot between my legs and threw theforter of me.

    I silently threw on his ck shirt fromst night and tiptoed my way to the bathroom. I washed my face and brushed my teeth.

    This was our second day in Bora Bora. We were staying at the St. Regis Bora Bora resort for five days. It was one of the many things Flynn gifted me for Christmas. The other things were gift cards from well-known brands and new furniture for the house. I was d that he bought furniture, because the house needed to be decorated and there were still a lot of empty spots that needed to be filled.

    New Year¡¯s eve we celebrated at Luca and Reina¡¯s ce. We watched fireworks and ate spaghetti prepared by Luca¡¯s mom. She was a really good cook and even gave me her secret spaghetti recipe. Aunt Lydia and Mn were there too and they were enjoying the view from Luca¡¯s balcony. Luca let Mn shoot some firecrackers and I was freaking out. But luckily it all went well and Mn had enjoyed it.

    ###Chapter 20

    On New Year¡¯s morning we went to have breakfast with Aunt Lydia and Mn and then Flynn and I spent some quality time with them. Together we build a snowman and after that we sat in front of the firece drinking hot chocte milk and ying a board game. Aunt Lydia and Mn left the next day.

    I dried my face with a towel and walked out of the bathroom. Flynn was still sleeping so I decided to  make breakfast. I walked into the kitchen and searched for a frying pan. I wanted to make some pancakes.

    Yesterday we arrived in Bora Bora and we immediately went swimming. The transition from cold to warm weather felt so good. After that we went to have dinner at the Bora Bora yacht club. The view from here was spectacr and the food was beyond fantastic.

    I ced the warm peanut butter and chocte chip pancakes on a te and ced it on a tray along with hot coffee. I walked back to our room and when I walked into the bedroom Flynn wasing out of the bathroom wearing a white robe. ¡°Good Morning. Happy Valentine¡¯s day pudding.¡± he said in a husky voice and walked over to me to ce a lingering kiss on my lips. ¡°What do you have there?¡± He eyed the deliciously looking pancakes.

    ¡°I made breakfast, do you want to eat it on the balcony?¡± I asked. He nodded and we walked outside to the balcony and sat on the table next to the pool. We were surrounded by clear blue water. So beautiful.

    Flynn took a bite of the pancake and gave me a thumbs up. ¡°You¡¯re like the best girlfriend ever.¡± he said grinning.

    After breakfast we decided to go swimming and have a good time. I wore my bikini and we walked to the beach. The beach here was so beautiful, I wouldn¡¯t mind staying here forever. ¡°I have something nned for tonight.¡± Flynn said mysteriously as he hugged me from behind. ¡°Or not exactly tonight, but more at sunset.¡±

    I raised up my eyebrows and turned around to face him. ¡°And what is that?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s a surprise, but wear something cute.¡±

    I chuckled. ¡°Okay, Vasilios.¡±

    After we were done swimming we went for a nice walk and then it was time for lunch. After lunch it was time for us to go snorkeling.

    It was alreadyte in the afternoon when we arrived home. Flynn showered and hurriedly went out again. He told me he had to put everything ready and he would send someone to pick me up.

    I took a bath and wore a white crochet top and gray wrap skirt and paired it with some ts. I curled my hair in beachy waves and applied some light makeup. When I was done I heard a knock on the door. I opened the door and I saw a bouquet with roses on the ground with a note attached to it. I read the note and smiled.

    I ced the roses in a vase and closed the door behind me. I walked outside and followed the path to the river were Flynn was waiting for me on the cruise. A private cruise.

    I saw him waiting for me in his white button up shirt and ck pants. He looked so damn handsome. He extended his hand for me and I ced mine in his.

 114

    ¡°What a beauty.¡± He murmured and kissed my forehead. He leaded me to the seating area and pulled out a chair for me. As we left the dock and started to sail away towards the sunset we were given drinks and snacks and a whole entire bottle of champagne. It was so romantic and beautiful.

    Suddenly our tour guide pulled out his ukulele and started singing.

    Flynn stood up and brought me outside to the deck. The sunset was behind us and it was breathtakingly beautiful. He pulled a paper out of his pocket and coughed nervously.

    ? 105 is the number thates to my head

    When I think of all the years I wanna be with you?

    ¡°So, I figured that this ce is good to ask you any question.¡±

    Oh my god. It¡¯s not happening right now. He¡¯s not doing what I think he¡¯s gonna do.

    ? Wake up every morning with you in my bed

    That¡¯s precisely what I n to do  ?

    ¡°You¡¯re my favorite person in the whole world.¡±

    ? And you know one of these days when I get my money right

    Buy you everything and show you all the finer things in life?

    ¡°And we¡¯re a big deal, you know. I don¡¯t wanna live my life without my one true one night stand.¡± He chuckled softly and continued, ¡°I guarantee there will be tough times.¡±

    At this point I was biting my lips to not burst out in tears. My heart was racing wildly and I felt like it was about toe out of my chest.

    ? Will forever be enough, so there ain¡¯t no need to rush

    But one day, I won¡¯t be able to ask you loud enough?

    ¡°But I also guarantee that if I don¡¯t ask you to be mine, i¡¯ll regret it for the rest of my life. So I will keep things simple. I know it¡¯s fast, but¡ª¡± He took a deep breath and went down on one knee. I covered my mouth with my hand. Tears of happiness brimming in my eyes. I mean I knew this was happening, but it felt so surreal. Flynn got a small box out of his pocket and opened it, revealing a beautiful diamond ring. ¡°Jill pudding Malik, will you marry me?¡±

    ?  I¡¯ll say will you marry me

    I swear that I will mean it

    I¡¯ll say will you marry me?

    I cried and nodded my head. ¡°Yes. Yes I¡¯ll marry you!¡±

    Jill Malik P. O. V

    ¡°Oh my god, congrattions !¡±

    Ximena barged into my office and took me into a bone crushing hug. ¡°Let me see how much my brother spent on your ring finger?¡± Her eyes widened as she saw the shining diamond ring. ¡°It¡¯s so gorgeous, oh my god! I can¡¯t believe we are going to be sisters!¡±

    It still felt so surreal to think that I¡¯m now Flynn Vasilios fiancee. Who would have ever thought the womanizer would settle down? The news and gossip papers were filled with articles about our engagement story. Flynn¡¯sst name was even trending on twitter for a couple of hours. The night of the proposal I called Aunt Lydia to tell her the exciting news and she was crying tears of happiness. She knew from the start that this was going to happen. She knew that Flynn would eventually be my boyfriend andter on my husband.

    Aunts knows best.

    When we went back to New York we invited the family for dinner at the mansion and I showed them my ring. They just stared at it for a long time, Rodrigo was the first one who realized what had happened. The others were still confused sh in shock.

    Reina started to cry river of tears after Rodrigo jumped on the couch and congratte Flynn and I on our engagement. The Vasilios family was so happy and they weed me with open arms. They were so d their son had settled down and left his wild past behind. They were tired of all his scandals. Sadly, Ximena couldn¡¯t be there because she was on a business meeting in Australia.

    ¡°You and Rodrigo are invited to the engagement party.¡± I said as Ximena finally calmed down and settled on the chair in front of me. ¡°It will be held at the Renaissance Event Hall.¡±

    ¡°Wonderful. I love that ce! But why do you say Rodrigo and I? Why can¡¯t you invite Rodrigo himself?¡± She asked with a questioning look.

    ¡°I thought you guys were a thing.¡±

    Her eyes widened. ¡°What?! No, we¡¯re just friends.¡±

    ¡°Really?¡± I raised my eyebrows and smirked. ¡°It does not look like that.¡±

    She sighed and rested her head in her hands. ¡°He¡¯s friendzoning me.¡±

    This time I was the one who had a shocked expression on my face. All this time I thought she was the one who was friendzoning him. ¡°Can¡¯t you just step out of the friendzone? That guy likes you.¡±

    ¡°I wish. I know he likes me, but it¡¯s not that easy.¡± She opened her handbag and got out a silver package. She hand it to me and gave me a cheeky grin. ¡°Something small from Australia.¡±

    I opened the package and a smile crept on my face. It was a candle with Flynn and my name engraved on it. It was so beautiful and it smelled like chocte. Ximena knew that I was obsessed with candlestely. I had already bought four from bath and bodyworks.

    Damn such a great way to avoid the topic about Rodrigo.

    ¡­¡­.

    The room was filled with family, friends, and business partners. Aunt Lydia and Mn flew from Barcelona to New York again. They were the only family I had. I made my way to the stairs and took a deep breath.

    I hope Flynn will love the dress I wore. It was a beautiful emerald green off the shoulders dress that was covered in sequins, glitter, andce. When I saw it I immediately fell in love with it. It was so gorgeous. The designer had to alter it a little at my waist, but overall it fitted me perfectly.

    The venue was beautifully decorated by a well known party nner from Italy. I think we might also hire him for our wedding. He did a splendid job in decorating and choosing the right venue for the right asion. The inviting lobby bar of the Renaissance Event Hall sets the stage for a gracefully curved marble staircase where I¡¯m currently standing, which descends to reveal the neo ssical decor of the main dining hall and hardwood dance floor below, the soaring ceiling nked by two spacious, yet cozy balconies.

    I took another deep breath and walked down. All eyes were immediately on me and I was searching for Flynn. I found him on the end of the stairs waiting for me, his mouth slightly open and his beautiful blue eyes wide as saucers.

    ¡°You take my breath away pudding.¡± he said when I reached the end of the stairs. He took my hand in his and ced a soft kiss on my lips. His lips felt so warm and it tasted like champagne.

    ¡°And you are so damn handsome, darling.¡± I said biting my lower lip and making him groan. The effect I have on him. I love it.

    ¡°Stop doing that, otherwise we will skip this whole engagement party and continue it in my bedroom. How does that sound?¡± He asked, winking at me.

    I chuckled and rolled my eyes. ¡°Sounds tempting, but I can¡¯t leave my guests alone. That would be rude.¡±

    Heughed softly and put his arm around my waist. ¡°Come, I want to introduce you to the rest of my family.¡±

    I met his aunts, uncles, grandma, grandpa, nieces, cousins, and nephews whose names I forgot right after they introduced themselves. They were from all different parts of the world or from different states. California, Los Angeles, Greece, Sao paulo, Amsterdam, Berlin, Madrid, South Africa, etc. They all had million dor or billion dor worthpanies. The Vasilios were very wealthy people and it was not only Flynn and his parents, but his whole family.

    ¡°Good evening JJ.¡± I heard a familiar voice behind me. I turned around and my eyes lit up immediately.

    ¡°Ethan!¡± I squealed and hugged him tightly. I had invited him too, but he had said he wasn¡¯t sure if he woulde. ¡°You came! But where¡¯s your fiancee?¡±

    ¡°So I need to tell you something. we cannot make it to the wedding, because we¡¯re moving to Jordan. But she told me to wish you two all the best in life. Right now she¡¯s very busy packing and arranging things for our residence in Jordan.¡±

    ¡°Really? You will not be here for my big day?¡± I was a little bit disappointed. I really wanted to have all my friends with me.

    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry JJ, but we have to move. I already got my letter that said I can start working there so I need to move fast, because otherwise they will give it to someone else.¡±

    ¡°Oh, well I¡¯m d you¡¯re here then! It means a lot to me.¡±

    Ethan smiled and took me into another hug. ¡°I can¡¯t believe you¡¯re getting married. I¡¯m so happy for you and I wish you and Flynn a happy life together.¡±

    I felt a tap on my shoulder and turned around. Flynn took my hand and looked at Ethan. ¡°Can I borrow my fiancee for a second?¡±

    Ethan chuckled. ¡°She¡¯s all yours man. Congrattions and take good care of my JJ.¡±

    ¡°Thanks man. And I will, don¡¯t worry.¡± Flynn said smiling. He brought me towards the entrance of the venue.

    ¡°An important business partner wille any second and I want you to meet him.¡± Flynn said and kissed the knuckles of my hand. ¡°He¡¯s a very nice man.¡±

    Flynn couldn¡¯t even finish his sentence when a man in histe forties entered the venue. He was dressed in a expensive armani suit and he looked really fit and fashionable for someone of his age.

    He shook Flynn¡¯s hand and then mine.

    ¡°Robert Quinn.¡± He introduced himself. His voice was croaky and low. ¡°You must be the fiancee of Mr. Vasilios.¡±

    I nodded and smiled at him. ¡°Yes, I am. Pleasure to meet you Mr. Quinn.¡±

    ¡°Oh stop with the formalities. It¡¯s Robert for you. Mr. Quinn makes me feel old.¡± He chuckled and then looked back at Flynn. ¡°I want you to meet my girlfriend.¡±

    ¡°Girlfriend?¡± Flynn and I asked in surprise. He looks so old and he still had a girlfriend? I thought he already had a wife and kids.

    ¡°Yes, she just came from the Nethends. An amazing woman. Beautiful curves. Very attractive.¡± He said and then turned around and beckoned at someone who was standing outside.

    A beautiful woman appeared out of the dark. Her light yellow dress clung on her body like a second skin. Her figure was that from an hourss and her hair was in a messy bun, yet it look so elegant. She looked confident, beautiful, but also very young. She must be in her early thirties orte twenties.

    If I would not have known better I would think she was the daughter of Mr. Quinn. I felt Flynn stiffen next to me. When I looked at him he was staring at the girl.

    He looked pale.

    ¡°Mr. Vasilios, This is my girlfriend.¡± Robert said as he kissed the cheeks of the girl. Flynn was still staring at her.

    Inplete shock.

    ¡°Sera.¡± He breathe out and the girl smirked.

    ¡°Hello Mr. Vasilios.¡± She greeted in a very sweet voice. It felt like honey was dripping out of her mouth. ¡°Nice to meet you¡­ again.¡±

    ###Chapter 21

    Flynn Vasilios P. O. V

    What the hell was she doing here? And what the hell was she wearing? This is an engagement party, not a strip club. If I knew she was the new ¡®girlfriend¡¯ of Mr. Quinn I wouldn¡¯t even bother to invite him.

    ¡°Vasilios, are you alright?¡± Jill asked and looked at me worried. My pudding looked so beautiful tonight, it was hard to keep my eyes of her. I nodded stiffly and managed to fake a smile at her question. She doesn¡¯t know much about Sera and I want it to stay like that. ¡°Yes, I am pudding. I¡¯ll get something to drink.¡±

    Before she could respond I walked away. I needed fresh air. I couldn¡¯t stay in Jill¡¯s presence while I¡¯m lying. Jill is like a human version of a lie detector. One more word and she would know that something was definitely off.

    Why did Sera have to be here? She¡¯s a temptress, she always gets what she wants and if her goal is to ruin my life, she will fucking damn seed. She was born to be this way. She¡¯s a natural at it.

    I walked to the balcony and took a deep breath. The night was starless. Not a single star in the sky. I sighed deeply. I love Jill so much, I can¡¯t let Sera ruin it. I¡¯m going to put my guard up and I¡¯m not going to fall for her disgustingly sweet words.

    ¡°It seems like you need a drink.¡± The melodious voice of the devil came from behind me. I turned around and there she was.Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.

    Satan in a skin tight dress and high heels.

    Her eyes sparkled and she had two sses of champagne in her hand. ¡°This one¡¯s for you.¡± She handed me the ss of champagne and I dly took it. Maybe champagne will help me clear my mind and stop me from killing her. Is it possible to kill Satan?

    ¡°What the fuck are you doing here Sera?¡± I asked angrily.

    Sheughed softly. ¡°I came here for your engagement of course, but if you want something else¡­ I mean I will just say Robert doesn¡¯t mind sharing.¡±

    ¡°Get the hell out of my face! Do you even hear what you said? You sound like a fucking slut.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t call me a slut when you had once fucked me. I¡¯m just doing what I¡¯m good at. Being a gold digger. And I¡¯m not ashamed of that, at least I live a luxurious life, because life is way too short to worry about what¡¯s good and what¡¯s bad. In the end, the good and the bad will all end up dead. So let¡¯s go and finish our business.¡±

    ¡°What business?¡± The way she said it made me sick in the stomach.

    ¡°A quickie of course.¡± she replied casually.

    ¡°That¡¯s cheating. And I¡¯m not going to cheat on my engagement party, you psycho.¡±

    Sera smiled sweetly and walked closer to me. ¡°Honey, It¡¯s not considered cheating if your fiancee doesn¡¯t know.¡±

    ¡°It is. Now, Sera I suggest you to leave me the fuck alone, before my fucking crazy fiancee will kill us both.¡±

 115

    ¡°Ahaha, Jill killing us? She¡¯s way to sweet for that. Nowe on Flynn, It will only take ten minutes.¡±

    Sera stood now so close to me that I could smell her sweet perfume. She¡¯s so tempting and It just gets harder to reject her. I need to get away from her, but for some reason I¡¯m still standing there.

    Her voice, her perfume, her presence.

    It kept me there.

    She was a dangerous woman and I knew it. She always gets what she wants and I¡¯m afraid that this time it will happen again.

    Her voluptuous breasts were now pushed up on my chest and her sinful red lips were now so close to my face. I could smell her breath that was a mix of mint and champagne. ¡°Come on baby, ten minutes.¡±

    My breath became unsteady. Think about Jill I whispered to myself. This is considered cheating, you can¡¯t do this to your fiancee and soon to be wife. But if she doesn¡¯t know, did it really happen? Is it still consider cheating? Yes, yes. You dumb fuck!

    My head was a mess. I didn¡¯t know what I want and the sweet words Sera was whispering in my ear weren¡¯t helping either.

    Oh fuck it ! Fuck it !

    Her sensual body moved slowly and I could feel the warmth spreading through my body. All my blood went down there and my head instantly became empty.

    I looked into her evil eyes and my hands grabbed her face and kissed her fully on her lips. I could feel her smirking against my lips

    She won. The devil won. Like always.

    She kissed me back. Slowly.

    ¡°We need a room baby. For ten minutes.¡± she whispered against my lips.

    And at this point, I knew I fucked up.

    I knew I fucked my pudding up.

    And god knows how I¡¯m going to get out of this mess.

    Jill Malik P. O. V

    I was searching for Flynn for the past twenty minutes. He said that he would get a drink, but I couldn¡¯t find him at the bar. The guests were about to leave and I needed him by my side. I was starting to get worried. Where the hell could he be?

    ¡°Hey pudding,¡±

    I turned around and I let out a breath of relieve. Thank god, he was finally here. ¡°Where were you?¡± I asked as I looked at him from head to toe. His hair was disheveled and he looked flushed. Why did it looked like he just ran a marathon?

    ¡°Oh, I¨Cuhm just went to get a drink.¡± He said as he slipped his arm around my waist. His breathing was fast and I could feel the beating of his heart. Where the hell was he?

    ¡°I went to the bar and you weren¡¯t there.¡±

    He stopped and looked at me, but then smiled. ¡°Oh and then¡­ uhm¡­ I went to the restroom.¡±

    ¡°Oh.¡± I wanted to p myself. Why was I so worried? The restroom was on the other side of this room, so that exins why he¡¯s out of breath.

    This all still feels like a fairytale. A modern fairytale. The thing is, they always say that modern fairytales never have a happy ending. I think that¡¯s what I¡¯m afraid off. I¡¯m afraid that the happiness I¡¯m feeling right now, is just temporary.

    ¡°Hey, pudding. Don¡¯t think too much.¡± Flynn kissed my forehead and smoothed the wrinkles out of my face. ¡°I¡¯m here, I will always be here.¡±

    He looked me in the eyes. Everytime he does that, I fall even more in love with him. My face warmed as he crept closer and wrapped his arms around me. The way his hands caressed my face, or his gentle eyes met my own, It¡¯s magical.

    ¡°I just got so worried and I don¡¯t know why. You¡¯re my fiancee and I mean you would never betray me. I feel so stupid right now.¡± Iughed stupidly, but stopped immediately when Flynn stayed silent.

    He just looked me dead in the eye and it freaked me out. Why was he staring at me like that. ¡°Babe?¡±

    He shook his head softly and gave me a soft squeeze. ¡°I was zoning out, but of course not. Why would you even think that? You are everything I want and everything I will ever need pudding. You are my queen. Never question that.¡±

    He grabbed my hand and kissed my ring finger. ¡°I want to make you my wife, because I know we are soulmates. I love you so much and¡­ and don¡¯t let any gossip break us apart. Just¡­ see gossip or whatever you may hear as something we need to ovee together¡­ as a couple.¡±

    ¡°Of course, I mean¡­ That¡¯s what we always do.¡± I answered smiling. ¡°Now let¡¯s go. People are waiting for us.¡±

    Flynn held me close to his side and we walked back to his parents. His parents were talking to Mn and my aunt and it seemed like they are getting along very well.

    ¡°Mommy, mommy!¡± Mn squealed and ran up to me to hug me tightly. I squatted down and he jumped on me.

    I chuckled as I lift him up. ¡°Yes, mi amor? Do you have fun so far?¡± I gave him a kiss on his cheeks, but he immediately wiped it away.

    ¡°Mom!¡± he shouted out embarrassingly. But then he grinned. ¡°Yes, I love it here.¡±

    Flynn ruffled Mn¡¯s hair and pinched his cheeks.  ¡°What did you do with the legos? Did you built big spaceships?¡±

    Mn shook his head and looked at my aunt. ¡°Tia gave half of it to the children¡¯s home after she stepped on it.¡±

    Flynnughed and Aunt Lydia shook her head.

    ¡°It was very painful and I could not see those little suckers anymore.¡± she said and took Mn from me. ¡°You guys need to do a final dance. The guests are about to leave, but they want to see you two do a dance.¡±

    ¡°Wha¡ª¡±

    I was about to say something, but Flynn interrupted me. ¡°Of course.¡± He said and smiled innocently at me. He grabbed my hand and brought me to the dance floor.

    ¡°Vasilios.¡± I hissed. ¡°No one informed me that we had to dance.¡±

    ¡°Just go with it pudding,¡± he whispered as he wrapped one arm around my waist. ¡°You don¡¯t want to disappoint our guests.¡±

    I let out a sigh as I heard the music starting in the background. There¡¯s no turning back now.

    There¡¯s a calm surrender to the rush of dayWhen the heat of the rolling world can be turned away

    We moved gracefully through the dancefloor as everyone was watching us inplete awe. I looked up at Flynn. Even in heels, he was still taller than me. I love the way he was looking at me.

    An enchanted moment and it sees me through

    It¡¯s enough for this restless warrior just to be with you

    I felt his body press against me, soft and warm. This was the love I¡¯d waited for, prayed for. I inwardly thanked God and hugged all the tighter. A love like this was to be cherished for life.

    And can you feel the love tonight? It is where we are

    It¡¯s enough for this wide-eyed wanderer that we got this far

    I¡¯ve known heartbreak enough to shatter my mind, to leave my soul feeling like dust in the wind. But,  he is worth my life and all that I have left is him.

    And can you feel the love tonight? How it¡¯sid to rest

    It¡¯s enough to make kings and vagabonds believe the very best

    ¡°Pudding.¡±

    I looked him in the eyes. ¡°Yes?¡±This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°Uhm,¡± Flynn cleared his throat. ¡°What do you think of having the wedding in two weeks?¡± he whispered.

    I stared at him wide eyed. Is he out of his mind?

    ¡°Are you crazy? Two weeks for a wedding? That will be a disaster!¡± I whisper-yelled.

    ¡°No, of course not. We already have our wedding nner, caterer, and decorator. Your dress wille next week. Everything is on schedule.¡±

    I shook my head. This is not happening. ¡°No, not at all. There is so much more that needs to be done. A wedding takes months to n. We don¡¯t even have our venue yet.¡± I was so confused, why did he want the wedding so early? I mean we were not in a hurry.

    And can you feel the love tonight? It is where we are   It¡¯s enough for this wide-eyed wanderer that we got this far

    ¡°Pudding,¡± he sighed. ¡°It will all be perfect. I will make sure of that okay. We have the right people and I mean you¡¯re right. Two weeks is way to short. What about in a month?¡±

    I bit my lip. ¡°I mean that¡¯s better, but still I don¡¯t think that¡¯s enough time.¡±

    ¡°It will be pudding. I promise we will have our dream wedding.¡± Flynn intertwined our fingers together.  He trace my lip lightly with the tip of his finger. My lips part and our breaths mingle. My heart flutters as he draws me to his lips.

    And can you feel the love tonight? How it¡¯sid to rest

    It¡¯s enough to make kings and vagabonds believe the very best

    ¡°In a month it will be then.¡± I said breathlessly, after the kiss. ¡°But why so early?¡±

    His mouth twitched, and I was pretty sure he was fighting a smile. ¡°Because¨C,¡± He drew me closer to him. ¡°I can¡¯t wait to make you mine. My pudding, my Queen, my Wife. And yes, I know¡­ We are not in a hurry, but I¡¯m just an impatient little boy okay.¡± He chuckled softly, before he turned serious again. ¡°You mean a lot to me Jill. I love you so very much and there are some things that cannot be forgiven, but I want you to know that I¡¯ll always love you. You will always have my heart. Now, tomorrow, and forever.¡±

    Suddenly I heard ps in the background. The music had stopped and everyone was pping for us. I looked at Flynn, he just smiled at me and squeezed my hand. ¡°Are we going to tell them?¡± He whispered in my ear.

    I nodded. Flynn pped in his hand and everyone turned silent.

    ¡°So,¡± I started. ¡°Flynn and I have decided just now that our wedding will be held in a month.¡±

    Everyone cheered except for our family. They just stared at us with the ¡®you two have a lot of exining to do¡¯ facial expression.

    Flynn Vasilios P. O. V

    When I kissed Sera I tasted something like rotten fruit. It was wrong. It was fucked up. I hated every single cell in my brains for it. But I can¡¯t change what¡¯s done.

    Now I am going to lose the most precious person in my life. I know she is going to find out, sooner orter. And I know that the best thing to do is to tell her the truth.

    But I can¡¯t.

    I can¡¯t tell her. I can¡¯t see her crying. I can¡¯t see her in pain. I can¡¯t see her walk away from me. It was a moment of weakness and I hate and regret it so much, but I know that there¡¯s no denying in it.

    I cheated on her.

    Even though it was just a kiss.

    And I know that Jill wouldn¡¯t hesitate to pack her stuff and leave. How much could she possibly take? After everything she went through with me, it¡¯s easy for her to leave but she decided to stay. And here I am, creating ways for her to leave me.

    I focused my attention back on myptop. I had a meeting in twenty minutes and I still haven¡¯t made a powerpoint presentation yet. My pudding was at home with Ximena, doing wedding stuff. The wedding is tomorrow and I have never felt so miserable and happy at the same time.

    Today her dress arrived, I haven¡¯t seen it yet. She didn¡¯t like the previous dress, so she ordered a new one. Part of me is excited to see it and part of me is hurting because I¡¯m keeping a huge secret from her.

    I know it¡¯s stupid and dumb from me for not telling her the truth. But what if she never knows it. What if I can just forget about it and move on? Sera wouldn¡¯t open her mouth, because Quinn is treating her like a queen. There¡¯s no way she would tell a soul about what had happened at the party.

    I got myself in a mess and I can¡¯t even get out of it.

    I let out a huge sigh. Tomorrow she¡¯s going to be Mrs. Vasilios, but only god knows for how long.

    I know I¡¯m going to lose her. It may be tomorrow or in twenty years. The moment she knows about the kiss, is the moment she will leave me.

    They always say that you don¡¯t realize what you have until it¡¯s gone. But I know what I had. I know that she is not receable. She brought the good out in me.

    The pain I¡¯m feeling in my chest right now is not badpared to the pain Jill will go through when she knows the truth.

    I screwed up. And this time it is real.

    ¡­¡­.

    ###Chapter 22

    Jill Malik P. O. V

    I was so stressed. The wedding is tomorrow at the Bourne mansion. The past few weeks Flynn and I looked at some venues with our wedding nner and we immediately fell in love with the Bourne mansion.

    It was so beautiful  with panoramic views and manicured gardens. We could definitely make some amazing pictures there.

    I rarely saw Flynn the past few weeks due so much wedding preparations.  The food had to be tasted, the invitations had to be sent out, and the cake had to be ordered. It was crazy.

    The only time Flynn and I saw each other was when it was time to go to bed and most of the time we didn¡¯t had time to talk. I know something was bothering him, because he was really quiet and distant.

    Maybe he¡¯s just nervous for the wedding like I am. It¡¯s all going so fast and in twenty four hour I¡¯m going to be Mrs. Vasilios. This morning I wrote a letter for him, that I will give him before the wedding. Just a little appreciation letter.

    Ximena left the mansion earlier, she was with me all day. She helped me with the dress and the letter. She was so excited and she cried when I asked if she wanted to be my maid of honor.

    My aunt and Mn went back to Barcelona after the engagement party, but they wille back tomorrow morning. Reina and Luca are also going toe tomorrow.

    I put on my bathrobe and walked into the kitchen to see if mysagna was ready. Thest time I madesagna it burned.

    I put thesagna on the table and looked at the time. Flynn should be home in an hour or two. He had a meeting today, again.  I sighed and was about to walk back upstairs when I heard the doorbell.

    I looked back at the clock. It was eight at night, who could it be? There are no guards today, because Flynn and I gave them a day off.

    Maybe it was Ximena, did she forgot something?

    I opened the door and there was no one outside. Instead I saw a beautiful bouquet with roses.

    An early wedding gift was written in cursive on the envelope that was sticking out.

    I looked around to see who brought it, but there was no one. There was also no name on the envelope. From who could this possibly be?

    Jill Malik P. O. V

    My stomach clenched and my face turned white as chalk when I opened the envelope. My fingers were shaking and my whole body was trembling.

    This can¡¯t be true. It could not be true. He would never do that.

    My eyes turned into a pool of tears as I stared at the pictures. The tears were running onto my cheeks, my hand instantly went to my heart and my stomach because they both hurt so bad from what I saw. It was like my worst nightmare came true. He said he loved me and I took him at his word. He said I was his soulmate, but here I am. Looking at pictures where he¡¯s glued to another girl.

    More specifically, the girlfriend of his business partner Mr. Quinn. How could he betray two people at once?

    And the worse part. It was all on our engagement party.

    Tears fell on the photographs. They were all proids. On each one of them there was a smiley, except for thest one. In the same cursive handwriting that was on the envelope there was written on the proid: ¡®Hope you like your wedding gift! Kisses, Z.¡¯

    Who the hell was Z?

    The pain I¡¯m feeling in my chest right now is undescribable. It feels like my insides are being ripped apart. Staring at pictures of the person I love cheating on me, breaks my heart in tiny little pieces.

    I threw the pictures on the table and I instantly broke down on the floor. The crying became louder, the pain became heavier, and my mind crazier. I was shaking uncontrobly on the floor surrounded by those god forsaken roses with those pictures, that ruined my life in one second.

    How could this happen? Wasn¡¯t he happy? We were about to get married, would he even tell me about it? So many questions, no answer.

    I stared at the floor. The pain in my chest didn¡¯t be any lighter. I tried to stop crying, to stop my tears from flowing down my cheeks.

    But I couldn¡¯t.

    This wasn¡¯t eve close from what I felt when I broke up with Mateo. This was far more worse. I couldn¡¯t feel myself anymore. I couldn¡¯t hear the beating of my heart anymore.

    This heartbreak is killing me, but at the same time it¡¯s keeping me alive. It only brings more tears to my eyes when I think about Flynn. The things he had done for me, our happy moments. He¡¯s everything I ever wanted and I will never stop loving him. Was everything he said a lie?

    Even though he cheated on me, he¡¯s like a drug I¡¯m addicted to. He¡¯s going to be the ex I cannot forget. And it¡¯s killing me.

    I don¡¯t want to break up with him. Oh god, I don¡¯t. I just want to try again, get answers from him. Hear his side of the story. Part of me wished this was just a prank, a lie. But pictures don¡¯t lie, especially not proid. I want to give him a chance, a chance to start again.

    But there¡¯s just this much that I can take. And right now, the only thing to do, is distance myself from him.

    I¡¯ll runaway from my own wedding.

    Far away, where he can¡¯t find me.

    I don¡¯t need his sweet words, his gentle touch, and his pleading eyes. I need space. I need time to heal myself, to pick up the broken pieces.

    I don¡¯t want to hear his sorry¡¯s and his pudding¡¯s. I want him to realize that he needs to appreciate what he has before it¡¯s gone. But it¡¯s toote now.

    And it hurts.

    It hurts me so much to let him go. It hurts what he has done to me. I closed my eyes and the memories of us reyed in my head.

    My crying turned into sobbing and my voice was raw. With trembling fingers I grabbed my phone and called the only person who could help me. The only person who could help me escape this nightmare.

    ¡°Hello?¡± he answered.

    I cried when I heard his voice. ¡°C.. Can Ie with you?¡±

    Appreciation letter to Flynn.

    Dear future husband,

    I just want to let you know how much I love you and how much I am obsessed with you. Thank you for epting Mn as your own, that¡¯s probably the most I am thankful for. He loves and adores you so much, I¡¯m kinda jealous haha. Thank you for giving me a second family, who I love so very much.

    I know we¡¯re going to get married in a couple of hours. And then we will finally be Mr and Mrs. Vasilios. Isn¡¯t it crazy how things work? I never thought that I would meet my One night stand again, let alone marry him. It¡¯s crazy how faith works. But I guess good thingses to those who wait.

 116

    I¡¯ll not promise you that I¡¯ll be a good wife or mom, because some days you¡¯ll being home and there will be no food on the table because I¡¯m to tired to cook so we will end up ordering chinese or something. Somedays you¡¯ll find a pile of clothes in theundry room and sometimes you¡¯ll not even see the bedroom floor anymore, because I always throw my clothes on the floor. Someday, when we have kids, they will draw on the walls, because I left them alone for two seconds and you¡¯ll be mad at me or maybe i¡¯ll forget to throw their diapers away and you identaly stepped on it. And somedays, you¡¯llin because I¡¯m working too much and never have time for myself.

    But I can promise you one thing. I¡¯ll always be there for you, your family, and our kids. From now on, it¡¯s not only me, but it¡¯s us. No matter what I do or what I aplish, I didn¡¯t do it by myself. It¡¯s us from now on. And yes, there is no such thing as a perfect couple. We will have our ups and downs, but remember¡­ Communication is the key for a happy and healthy marriage.

    So, I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for showing me that love still exist. Thank you for being the light of my life. I promise to keep enjoying all the little things that makes everyday with you so special.

    I love you, Flynn Vasilios.

    I love you till death do us apart.

    Yours truly,

    Pudding.

    Three yearster in Amman, Jordan

    Jill Malik P. O. V

    It was a very busy day at the market. It was so hot and I couldn¡¯t stand the bustle. I quickly went to the grocery stand and paid for the groceries. I hurried back to my car and immediately turned on the air-conditioning. I let out an exhausted sigh.

    Three years, and I¡¯m still not used to the hot weather. It¡¯s not hot all year round, but when it is I wished I could go back to New York city. I ced the groceries on the passenger seat and headed home. It was a busy day at work, but thank goodness it was Friday.

    I drove to the vi I was staying for the past three years. It was a seven bedroom vi that I shared with Ethan and his now wife, Irina. Irina was so sweet and understanding that she let me stay with them.

    So much had changed in three years. I flew all the way from New York to Jordan to start a new life. The only people aside from Ethan and Irina that knows where I am are my aunt and Mn. Theye visit me during Christmas and Summer. I¡¯m pretty sure Flynn knows where I am too, he just never showed up and I think that¡¯s a good thing. But deep down I wished he did. If he knew where I was, I wished he had at least sent me an apology letter. But he didn¡¯t.

    I  pulled up into the driveway of the big vani colored Vi and grabbed the groceries from the passenger seat. I opened the door and the house was empty. It was always empty during the day. Irina was usually in her bedroom and Ethan was at work. The only time I saw them was in the morning during breakfast and at night during dinner.

    Last year Irina asked me to be her maid of honour, but I politely declined. I didn¡¯t showed up to their wedding either, because I just couldn¡¯t. It was painful. The feelings I have for Flynn were still there and I don¡¯t think I will ever love someone as much as I love Flynn. Even after three years, it¡¯s still very painful to think about him.

    I actually forgave him, because if I didn¡¯t I don¡¯t think I could live peacefully. What he had done to me was a low blow and even though I told myself that the past will not affect my future. It actually did.

    I can¡¯t move on from him.

    He¡¯s still in my mind and my heart.

    And how much I tell myself that I deserve better than him, it makes me want him more. Nights are torture to me. I can¡¯t sleep without having nightmares about that day. I can¡¯t sleep without thinking about him. There were so many times that I wanted to go back to New York and just throw myself at him. But I know that this time it should be different. I¡¯m not the one that shoulde crawling back to him. He is.

    I walked into the kitchen and ced the groceries in the fridge. Tonight it was my turn to prepare dinner. I walked upstairs to my room to change intofortable clothes and then I went downstairs to see if I got mail. Aside from beauty magazines, there was a pink envelope with my name on it written in gold ink. I ced the magazines on the table and opened the envelope. When I saw the handwriting inside I almost choked on air. This can¡¯t be true. Not after three years.

    Dear Jill,

    I¡¯m sorry.

    I regret nothing more in life than what I have done to you. It was wrong, stupid and immature and you do not deserve any of the pain I have caused you.

    I¡¯ve lost the one girl I¡¯ve ever loved and it was cause of the things I¡¯ve done.

    I feel so bad right now, cause I tore your world apart, and now all I can think about is how I broke your heart.

    I know I¡¯m three years toote, but I couldn¡¯t find your address. Ethan did a good job of protecting you, it took forever for my detectives to find you.

    Please reach out to me when you get the chance and if you want to. I hope you do, because I need you. I seriously need you, pudding.

    I don¡¯t know if you have already moved on from me, but I didn¡¯t. I can¡¯t move on from you and I don¡¯t think I ever will. You have my heart and you¡¯ll always have it.

    Love always,

    Flynn.

    I choked back a sob. I had no idea Ethan was protecting me from him.  All the time I thought that it was Flynn who didn¡¯t want to reach out to me. I read the letter once again and the tears kept falling down my cheeks. I have missed him. I have missed him so goddamn much.

    ¡°Jill? What the hell, why are you crying?¡±

    Ethan entered the kitchen and looked worried between me and the letter. ¡°What is that?¡± He grabbed the letter out of my hand and his eyes widened as he saw the name on the bottom of the letter. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Jill.¡±

    I looked up at him. ¡°Why are you apologizing?¡±

    He put the letter back down and sat on the bar stool. ¡°I uhm, decided to stop hiding you from him, because I think he deserves to know by now. It has been three years and it¡¯s about time.¡±

    ¡°I know, I know.¡± I wiped my tears away with the back of my hand. ¡°I don¡¯t know if I¡¯m ready to see him.¡±

    Ethan sighed. ¡°Do it, Jill. He deserves to know. Despite what he has done to you, you can¡¯t keep this away from him.¡±

    At that moment Irina and a three year old girl with brown wavy hair and piercing blue eyes entered the kitchen.

    ¡°Amari!¡± I squatted down and hugged my babygirl. She giggled and hugged me back. ¡°What did you do with aunt Irina today?¡±

    ¡°She made clothes for my dolls. They all have new clothes now.¡± She said happily. ¡°Right, aunt Rina?¡±

    Irina smiled and nodded.

    Amari looked at me. ¡°Why are you crying, mommy?¡±

    I smiled at her and kissed her forehead. ¡°It¡¯s time we¡¯re going to pay your dad a visit.¡±

    Jill Malik P. O. V

    Amari wasn¡¯t part of the n. When I decided to go to Jordan, I didn¡¯t knew that I was pregnant.

    After two months, I suddenly got really sick and I started to vomit constantly. I couldn¡¯t eat, because everytime I did it immediately came out again. The idea of me being pregnant didn¡¯t even crossed my mind, because I thought that I was getting really sick because of all the things that had happened.

    Irina on the other hand wasn¡¯t really sure about that. She bought a pregnancy test for me and after a lot of ¡®you should do it¡¯ I finally decided that maybe she was right. In the end, she was afterall. After visiting the doctor I heard that I was already three and a half months pregnant. The doctor told me that if it wasn¡¯t about all the stresstely, I wouldn¡¯t even be sick.

    Ethan suggested that I had to tell Flynn about it, but that time I was still so mad at him. I didn¡¯t forgave him yet and I didn¡¯t wanted to tell him about it, because that meant that he would know where I was. Ethan tried to convince me to call or text Flynn, but I was so stubborn that I just didn¡¯t do it. I told him that I would do it after she was born. ¡°I¡¯ll be ready to face him then.¡± was my excuse.

    When Amari was born, Ethan and Irina told me again to send a picture of her to Flynn. I was nning on doing it, but things got really hectic. Amari suddenly got sick and had to spend a week in the hospital, that I totally forgot about the picture.

    And now, three yearster Flynn still has no clue that he¡¯s a father.

    ¡°Mommy, where¡¯s dad?¡± Amari walked into my room while I was packing. I smiled at her and took her on myp.

    ¡°He¡¯s in New York, babygirl.¡±

    ¡°Is that far?¡± she asked as she rubbed her eyes. I yed with her hair and nodded. ¡°Yes, far far away.¡±

    Having Amari in my life changed me. She was my little princess. My little ray of sunshine. Her smile and chattering brightened up my day.

    ¡°But why is he not here?¡± she asked innocently. I let out a sigh and kissed her forehead. ¡°You¡¯ll see him in a couple of days, okay. Now, go to aunt Irina and help her with the garden.¡± Amari jumped out of myp and ran out of my room.

    I let out a sigh as I watch her leave. At moments like these I regret that I have never told Flynn about her. I really wanted him to see her grow up and hear her say first words. Sometimes I questioned myself if I¡¯m the one at fault here. Sometimes I wished I would just hear him out instead of run away. But now there¡¯s no turning back. I already did it and it hurts.

    It hurts every day.

    Seeing my daughter, who¡¯s an exact replica of him except for her hair, growing up brought memories back every time I looked at her. His smile, hisughter, and the way he looked at me in the morning. So loving and kind. It was like I was his world, his universe.

    But god, how was I wrong.

    I thought fairytales exist. I thought I was the princess and he my prince charming. I thought our wedding was my happily ever after.

    But no.

    Fairytales don¡¯t exist.

    This is reality and here, in this cruel world, there¡¯s no happily ever after.

    ¡­¡­.

    ¡°Mommy, are we going to see dad soon?¡± Amari asked as she tugged on my hand. I held Amari¡¯s hand firmly as I looked out for my driver. A couple hours ago I arrived in New York, Ethan arranged a driver for me to drive me around in New York.

    ¡°Yes baby girl. But¡­ Oh there he is. Our driver is here, princess. You¡¯ll see dad soon okay?¡± I looked at the ck sleek car that stopped right in front of me. The door opened and a bald man stepped out.

    ###Chapter 23

    ¡°Miss Malik?¡± He asked, removing his shades revealing hazel-green eyes. ¡°I¡¯m Todd Collin, you¡¯re personal driver.¡±

    ¡°Hi Todd, Nice to meet you.¡± I greeted the big headed bald man with hazel green eyes. He didn¡¯t look older than fifty. I wished I had other ways to describe him, but at this moment this was the only description I coulde up with. He wore a ck suit, the ones personal drivers wear, and he had white gloves on.

    I ushered Amari inside and sat down next to her. Todd ced all my suitcases in the trunk and then went back to the passenger seat.

    ¡°Do you know the address to the apartment?¡± I asked when he started the car. He looked through the rear view mirror and nodded his head.

    ¡°Yes, I got all the information.¡± With that he started driving.

    Amari looked out of the window and then looked back at me. Her eyes sparkled. ¡°It¡¯s so beautiful, mommy.¡± She pressed her nose against the window to see all the skyscrapers passing by. ¡°D¡¯you lived here?¡± She asked in her cute toddler voice.

    I found it so cute that she could already talk at the age of two and a half. This year she¡¯s turning three and she could easily pick up words and phrases. I only need to say something once and the next thing I know she¡¯s the one using them.

    I took her on myp and nuzzled my nose in her hair. ¡°I lived here with your dad three years ago.¡±

    ¡°Is three years alot?¡± She asked and then hold three fingers up. ¡°This is three. Is it a lot, mommy? D¡¯you miss dad?¡±

    ¡°I miss dad everyday, princess. As much as you miss him.¡± I whispered softly as I stared outside the window. Familiar ces where passing by.

    Suddenly my chest tightened. Oh god, Ximena.

    I haven¡¯t talked to Ximena in three years. I had sent my letter of resignation a couple of hours before I left New York, three years ago. Since then, I haven¡¯t heard anything about her. I haven¡¯t even contacted her.

    I was still in touch with Reina and Luca though. Reina was expecting a baby girl at the end of this year. At this moment she was craving all kinds of food and poor Luca has to deal with mood swings every second of the day. One moment Reina is all happy and chattery and the next she was bawling her eyes out over some random thing.

    ¡°But mommy¡ª,¡± Amari¡¯s voice woke me up from my thoughts. She was still not done with interrogating me. ¡°Why¡¯id dad never visit me?¡±

    ¡°Baby Girl, that¡¯s because mommy is a meanie.¡±

    She immediately looked up at me with her big blue eyes. ¡°No you¡¯re not.¡±

    I chuckled lightly, but then Amari pointed at something outside. ¡°Cake! Mommy, cake. I want cake!¡±

    I looked outside and saw Eir Bakery pass by. ¡°Do you want cake, princess?¡± She eagerly nodded her head. I knew she loved cake, all sorts of cakes. Cupcakes, red velvet, chocte cake, name it and she will eat it for you.

    ¡°Todd, Can you please turn around and stop at Eir bakery?¡±  I called. Todd turned his head around and nodded. ¡°Of course, Miss Malik.¡±

    ¡°Mommy are w¡¯going to get cake?¡± Amari asked excitedly. I nodded my head and she immediately hugged me tightly. ¡°Thank you mommy!¡± she squealed.

    I giggled and kissed her cheeks. ¡°Everything for you princess, everything.¡±

    The car stopped at Eir bakery and Amari and I stepped out. We stepped in the shop and Amari immediately pointed at her favorites. ¡°I want that mommy and that one!¡± She pointed at the Cheesecake eir and Macarons.

    I chuckled and walked towards the nicedy behind the counter. ¡°Hi, can I please have two Cheesecake eir and a box of Macarons.¡±

    She smiled kindly at me. ¡°Sure, that will be $17 dors.¡±

    I pulled out my credit card and handed it to her. Momentter, she returned back with my deserts and credit card. ¡°Enjoy.¡±This content is ? N?velDrama.Org.

    I smiled at her and grabbed Amari by her hand. ¡°Come on, princess. I already bought cake. It¡¯s for after dinner okay?¡±

    She nodded her head and hopped happily next to me. I opened the door to exit the shop and my soul almost left my body.

    Right in front of me, a pair of bright blue eyes was staring at me in shock. The one person I haven¡¯t seen in three years.

    Flynn.

    Flynn Vasilios P. O. V

    ¡°Flynn, can you get some cake for me? Please?¡± Ximena pleaded when I entered her room. Her room was filled with roses, gifts, choctes, dresses, and makeup.

    ¡°Xim, you¡¯re about to get married, can¡¯t you at least wait until after?¡±

    ¡°Come on,¡± She whined. ¡°I¡¯m really craving it!¡±

    I let out an exasperated sigh and looked at my Cartier watch. There¡¯s still an hour left before the wedding. I pulled my phone out of my pocket and searched for the closest bakery.

    ¡°What cake do you want?¡± I asked, looking up from my phone.

    Ximena¡¯s eyes lit up. Of course, it would. It always does when food is involved. ¡°Red velvet!¡± She said happily. ¡°Thank you so much, big bro.¡± She walked up to me and hugged me tightly. I¡¯m so happy she¡¯s finally happy and getting married.

    ¡°Can I say something?¡± She whispered, loosening me out of her hug. Her voice turned soft, almost in a whisper.

    ¡°What?¡± I asked as I studied her face that suddenly turned into a sad frown.

    ¡°You will not mind, would you?¡±

    ¡°Uh, No. I guess not.¡± I have a feeling where this is going. I haven¡¯t talked about it.

    ¡°I¡­ really wished Jill was her.¡± She choked back a sob, her eyes filled with tears but she blinked it away immediately not wanting to ruin her makeup. ¡°I miss her, Flynn.¡±

    My chest tightened when I heard her name. It felt like someone was choking me. I couldn¡¯t breath.

    I miss her too, lil sis. I miss her too.

    Since the day she left, I thought I was slowly dying a painful death. It literally felt like my heart was being ripped out of my chest when I came home and saw her engagement ring on the counter, on top of all the Proid¡¯s.

    The Proid¡¯s were wet from her tears and god dammit, I never felt so sick and heartbroken in my entire life.

    At that point I realized I lost her.

    I wished I had just told her. When I saw the proids and the note attached to it, my whole body turned rigid.

    Fucking Zoe. She was the one that had send those proids to Jill. I mean I would have told her eventually. But it was not supposed to go like that. She was not supposed to run away.

    Leaving me behind heartless and in pain.

    It wasn¡¯t really long after that when Ximena called, crying on the phone. She couldn¡¯t even speak properly. ¡°Jill signed her resignation letter. Why?!¡± She sobbed, her cries turning louder.

    Oh, I definitely knew why. It all has to do with me.

 117

    ¡°Flynn? I¡¯m so sorry. I didn¡¯t mean to bring back memories.¡± Ximena whispered, nudging me softly on my side when she realized I was zoning out.

    ¡°You just did.¡± I snapped, my eyes filling with tears. ¡°You know how I feel about her Ximena. I can¡¯t talk about her and yet here you are reminding me about her!¡±

    I took a deep breath to calm myself down.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡± She sputtered. ¡°I just¡­ You¡¯re not the only one in pain here, okay. It¡¯s because of your stupid decision that I lost my best friend. I always wanted her to be here. At my wedding. We always talked about it. It fucking hurts!¡±

    ¡°As if I wouldn¡¯t know!¡± I yelled out frustrated. ¡°I miss her every single day! I can¡¯t even live in the mansion in peace without hearing her voice. I send her a letter, because I finally found her and she hasn¡¯t even responded yet. I don¡¯t expect her to forgive me. Fuck I don¡¯t!. But I just need to hear her voice. I just need to hear that she¡¯s¡­ doing well. I miss her as much as you do, Ximena. And yes, I did something very stupid and dumb and god, I wished I could undo it, but I can¡¯t! I fucking can¡¯t!¡±

    Ximena buried her face in my suit. The warmth of her body calmed me down. Ximena was my rock after Jill left. Sheforted me, brought food for me, and was my light in my darkest days. ¡°Please get her back Flynn, please?¡±

    I softly pushed her off me. ¡°I think it¡¯s toote, Xim. I think it¡¯s toote. Now tell me, should I get you some cake or not?¡±

    She nodded her head. Her loose curls shaking wildly as she did that. ¡°Yes, of course. But you have to hurry; the wedding starts in like fifty minutes.¡±

    I gave her a peck on her forehead. ¡°I¡¯ll be quick.¡±

    I walked out of Ximena¡¯s dressing room and bumped into a nervous Rodrigo. ¡°Oh god, Flynn I¡¯m fucking freaking out right now!¡±  He went with his hand through his hair and sighed deeply. ¡°I can¡¯t remember anything about the vows!¡±

    He paced back and forth and groaned. ¡°Fuck!¡±

    I chuckled. ¡°Calm the fuck down man. I¡¯ll be back in a bit.¡±

    ¡°What? Where the fuck are you going?¡± Rodrigo stepped in front of me and wiped his forehead with his handkerchief.

    ¡°Buy some cake for Ximena.¡±

    ¡°What?!¡± he yelled out. ¡°Why? Can¡¯t you send someone else? You¡¯re supposed to be here with me!¡±

    I shook my head and chuckled. ¡°You¡¯re going to be fine. I¡¯ll be here before the wedding start, I¡¯m your best man after all.¡±

    I walked out of the venue and stepped into my car. I drove to the closest bakery which luckily happened to be Eir bakery. In the past I often bought macarons there and they were delicious.

    I parked my car in front of the bakery and stepped out. The door of the shop opened and my eyes widened when I saw the person in front of me.Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.

    Pudding.

    ¡°Jill.¡± I whispered, I closed my eyes and snapped them open again. Am I dreaming? God, Am I dreaming? What the hell?

    We stayed there for what seemed an eternity.

    Frozen in shock.

    Me and her. Eye to eye.

    She looked beautiful than ever.

    A diamond, that I lost.

    Her lips quivered and her beautiful eyes turned into a pool of tears. ¡°Flynn?¡± She stepped out of the shop and walked closer towards me. The way she walks, it always turned me on.

    But at this moment I was still pretty much in shock.

    Jill is here. Oh god, my pudding is here!

    ¡°I¡¯m¡­ I¡¯m¡­ Jill where were you? Oh god, I have so many questions!¡± I stammered as I closed the space between us and hugged her tightly. I never want to let her go. Oh god, I don¡¯t want this moment to end. I can¡¯t believe I finally have her in my arms again.

    How much I missed this.

    Her.

    Us.

    ¡°Flynn! Oh god, stop it! I just came here to visit you, because you need to know something.¡± She said, slowly pushing me off her. ¡°I¡¯m not here to¡­ nevermind.¡± She stopped talking and then looked down and smiled.

    It¡¯s only then when I noticed the little girl next to her. Wavy brown hair, long beautiful eyshes, pink plump lips, and those eyes.

    Blue.

    Ocean blue like mine. They were so pretty. She was so pretty.

    It can¡¯t be.

    She can¡¯t be.

    Oh god, don¡¯t tell me Jill was¡­

    ¡°She¡¯s mine, isn¡¯t she?¡± My voice raised an octave. I shifted my attention back to Jill. The little girl was looking innocently at me and Jill.

    Jill took a deep breath and looked up at me. ¡°Yes¡­ She is. The reason I came back.¡± Her voice was soft, low. I almost couldn¡¯t hear her, but I did.

    And I felt my blood boiling.

    ¡°What the hell?!¡± I yelled out. I couldn¡¯t help to keep my voice low.

    I was shocked.

    I had a fucking daughter and I didn¡¯t know?! ¡°Why haven¡¯t you told me? Why? Oh my god, I have so many questions right now!¡±

    ¡°Flynn, you should calm down!¡± She whisper-yelled. ¡°We¡¯re in public!¡±

    ¡°You better tell me this right now, Jill!¡± I said through gritted teeth. ¡°This is no joke, she¡¯s my daughter!¡± I went through my hair with my hand frustratedly and shook my head. ¡°Oh god, Jill this¡­ I¡¯m shocked. I don¡¯t know.¡±

    ¡°What do you mean you don¡¯t know?¡± She looked at me in disbelief. ¡°You don¡¯t believe she¡¯s your daughter?¡±

    ¡°I didn¡¯t say that!¡± I growled. ¡°Everyone can see that she¡¯s my daughter. She¡¯s an exact replica of me¡­ well except for her hair.¡±

    Jill sighed. ¡°I came here, because I can¡¯t hide her from you anymore. She needs you. She¡¯s asking about you.¡± She looked down at the little girl and stroke her hair softly.

    ¡°Flynn, I want you to meet Amari Faith Vasilios.¡±

    Jill Malik P. O. V

    It was not suppose to happen like this. I was not supposed to meet Flynn in front of a bakery.

    Now he was freaking out. I mean what else would I expect? Of course he would freak out. I suddenly appeared back in his life with a daughter.

    His daughter.

    Our daughter.

    I looked at Flynn and he stared back and forth at me and Amari. Amari tugged nervously on my hand. His stares made her nervous.

    ¡°She¡¯s my daughter? I mean oh god, she¡¯s so pretty. Did I make that?¡± His eyes held so much awe as he stared at his babygirl.

    I chuckled softly and squatted down so I was at the same eye level as Amari.

    ¡°Who¡¯s he, mommy?¡± she asked as she looked up at Flynn. I caressed her cheek and kissed her on her forehead.

    ¡°That¡¯s dad, babygirl. That¡¯s your dad.¡± I whispered and her little blue eyes widened.

    ¡°Dad?¡± she asked astonished as she still look at me in total shock, her mouth slightly open.

    I nodded my head and couldn¡¯t help butugh inwardly about her facial expression.

    ¡°Dad.¡± She repeated. I stood up and ushered her to Flynn.

    ¡°Go say Hi to dad, babygirl.¡±

    Amari seemed hesitant. She looked up at me and then back at Flynn. I mean of course she would. What other kid can say that they met their dad at the bakery shop for the first time?

    ¡°Hi,¡± Flynn squatted down, so he didn¡¯t look like a giant to Amari. ¡°How are you, princess?¡± I just realized that Flynn was dressed in a tuxedo. Is he going to a wedding?

    ¡°Hi,¡± Amari replied shyly.

    ¡°Hi,¡± Flynn smiled, happy that Amari didn¡¯t burst out in tears.

    ¡°Hi,¡±

    ¡°Hi,¡±

    ¡°Are you both stuck on Hi? What about how are you? Or what do you like?¡± I rolled my eyes as I said that.

    ¡°Yeah, yeah. I¡¯m just happy that I finally hear her voice.¡± Flynn said, he then looked back at Amari, ¡°How are you, princess?¡±

    ###Chapter 24

    ¡°Good, Hungry.¡± Amari replied, she then looked up at me and tugged on my hand.

    ¡°No,¡± Flynn chuckled softly. ¡°My name is Flynn. But you can call me dad.¡±

    ¡°No, hungry.¡± Amari poked his nose. ¡°Hungry.¡±

    ¡°No, my name is¡ª,¡±

    ¡°It means that she¡¯s hungry.¡± I rifiedughing.

    ¡°Oh, we will get some foodter okay.¡± Flynn said and Amari nodded her head. He then smiled at her and stood up. ¡°Why?¡± He asked. ¡°Why did you do this, Jill?¡±

    ¡°You know why.¡±

    ¡°I know you saw the pictures. We could have talk, Jill. You always said thatmunication is the key.¡± His voice cracked as he said that. Seems like I wasn¡¯t the only one in pain.

    ¡°What was there to talk?¡± I asked softly, but loud enough for him to hear. ¡°A picture speaks a thousand words and you had five of them!¡±

    He sighed deeply and stayed silent for a while before he spoke again, ¡± Can you please do something for me?¡±

    ¡°Depends on what it is.¡± I answered hesitantly.

    ¡°Attend Ximena¡¯s wedding today.¡±

    My heart stopped for a split second. Ximena¡¯s wedding? Ximena is getting married? That exined why he is wearing a tuxedo. ¡°What? Ximena is getting married? Tell me she¡¯s getting married to Rodrigo!¡±

    Flynnughed. ¡°As a matter of fact, yes.¡±

    Oh my god. I cannot believe it! Ximena is getting married today. I remembered that we always talked about marriage and babies. She would be my bridesmaid and I would be hers. We had the ideal wedding pictured in our head, but things didn¡¯t really turn out to be as how we wanted it to be.

    Attending her wedding would mean meeting Flynn¡¯s family. And I was not ready for that. I can¡¯t just appear back in their lives after three years. With Amari may I add. I don¡¯t know if they hate me, love me, or whatever the hell Flynn told them about me.

    I was just not ready.

    ¡°I¡­ I don¡¯t think I can.¡± I heaved a long sigh and looked at Amari who was jumping impatiently from her left to her right foot.

    Flynn touched my hand, but I immediately pulled away.

    We were both broken. I could feel it. But I don¡¯t want history to repeat itself. I need to keep my guard up. I can not put him together, while I am still shattered. And I don¡¯t even know if I want to be the one to pick up his pieces.

    ¡°Jill, please. I was not the only one suffering when you disappeared. Ximena did too. Probably even worse than me. I don¡¯t want her to suffer for what I¡¯ve done. She doesn¡¯t deserve that, Jill. She does not at all.¡±

    I closed my eyes and my chest tightened. It hurts to think that I have not only broke Flynn, but also Ximena. We were all a bunch of broken pieces. Flynn deserve the pain, totally. But Ximena didn¡¯t. Ximena didn¡¯t deserve everything I¡¯ve put her through. And goodness, I don¡¯t want to know what I¡¯ve put her through.

    ¡°What will your family think?¡± I whispered. ¡°What will they think if I bring Amari? She¡¯s your daughter, yes. But what will they think about me?¡±

    ¡°They know.¡± Flynn paused for a second and then continued in a croaky voice, ¡°They know what I did. They totally understand why you ran away. You don¡¯t have anything to worry about Jill. Even if you woulde back fifty years from now on, they would still ept you with open arms. They love you. And they will love Amari even more.¡±

    ¡°I really want to attend Ximena¡¯s wedding, but¡ª,¡±

    ¡°But what?¡± Flynn asked. ¡°She misses you Jill. Everyone does. Please, don¡¯t do this for me. I don¡¯t deserve this. But¡­ do it for my sister, your best friend.¡±

    I stayed quiet for a while, thinking about it.

    ¡°But I don¡¯t have anything to wear.¡± I finally said.

    A small smile appeared on Flynn¡¯s face. ¡°Thank you, pudding¡­ I mean Jill. I¡­ uhmm will get clothes for both of you. Do you want me to bring you to the venue where the wedding is held?¡±

    I shook my head. ¡°I have a personal driver. Maybe you can tell him the address.¡±

    He nodded. ¡°Okay good. Uhm, I¡¯ll get some cake for Ximena. The wedding starts in¡­¡± Flynn nced at his watch and his eyes widened immediately. ¡°Oh shit!¡±

    ¡°Flynn!¡± I hissed, pointing at Amari. ¡°Language!¡±

    ¡°Oh sorry, but seriously i¡¯m in deep shit. The wedding starts in thirty five minutes. Oh god! Don¡¯t you worry though. I¡¯ll tell your driver to drive to the boutique where you both can pick something out to wear and then from there on we will drive to the wedding together. Does that sound good?¡±

    I nodded my head. ¡°Yes, that sound very chaotic and we will probably bete for the wedding. But, it¡¯s for Ximena.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s for Ximena.¡± Flynn repeated, smiling.

    Flynn Vasilios P. O. V

    The wedding turned out to be a disaster that we didn¡¯t mind, at all. In fact, it made it more special.

    If I knew Ximena would freak out like that when she saw Jill entering the venue, I would have called her instead of surprised her. I should have know that it wouldn¡¯t be a good idea to surprise her.

    Ximena was already walking half down the aisle when Jill entered¡­ with a lot of noise may I add. The door opened loudly that it made everyone turn their heads. Including that from Ximena. She ruined the whole romantic ¡®walk down the aisle¡¯ moment.

    I already stood behind Rodrigo, because I arrived fifteen minutes before Jill did. I was his best man after all. I couldn¡¯t bete.  I told Jill that she should tell the security guard to let her in from the back door, but she probably forgot and just went in through the main door. The main door makes a lot of noise.

    Jill and my little princess looked so adorable and cute in their matching red dresses. I knew the boutique had beautiful dresses, because Ximena loved to shop there.

    I didn¡¯t got enough time to admire them, because Ximena¡¯s eyes widened and before I could even blink she was hugging Jill tightly. I probably should had warn Jill that Ximena would go crazy when she saw her.

    Rodrigo was shocked. Completely and utterly shocked.

    He had missed Jill too. He threw me a couple of well deserved punches when he heard the reason why Jill left. My pretty boy face was ruined for like a few weeks.

    ¡°Is that¡ª,¡± Rodrigo didn¡¯t finished his sentence, instead he ran towards Jill who was still being hugged by Ximena and Ellie, Rodrigo¡¯s sister.

    I walked behind Rodrigo and we both tried to pull our sisters away from Jill. They were literally hugging her so tight, I could even feel that Jill had trouble breathing. ¡°Ximmy stop, let Jill breath.¡± I said as I gently pulled her away. Rodrigo did the same with Ellie, which resulted in him getting a punch in his chest.

    ¡°Let me hug her, I haven¡¯t seen her in years!¡± Ellie snapped and buried her face in Jill¡¯s neck again. ¡°Gosh, I missed you so much! Where were you?¡±

    At this point, everyone in the room was staring at us with questioning looks in their eyes. From the corner of my eyes I saw my parents walking towards us.

    ¡°What is happe¡ª Jill? Is that you? Oh my god, you came back!¡± My mom immediately ran up to her and took her into a bone crushing hug that took Jill totally off guard. She stumbled backwards, but she got hold of the table next to her.

    Women!

    I shook my head and beckoned my dad to get my mom off Jill. They were all suffocating her. I could see Amari getting very ufortable by all the people that were hugging her mom.

    My dad cleared his throat and tried to get my mom off Jill. When my dad finally could get my mom next to him, Jill took a deep breath and lifted Amari. Amari immediately ced her head on her mommy¡¯s shoulder.

    Ximena squealed loudly, making the whole room gasp. ¡°Oh god, is that¡­ Oh my god!! I¡¯m aunty!¡± Ximena openly gaped at Amari and then she turned around and looked furiously at me. ¡°Flynn! You knew!¡±

    ¡°I didn¡¯t!¡± I eximed and put my hand up in surrender. ¡°I just knew a few hours ago that I was a father!¡±

    This wedding was turning into a disaster. The guests were whispering, still wondering what the hell was going on. I felt like I was in a soap serie.

    ¡°Let¡¯s get you two married first and then we will sit down and talk.¡± My dad said as he pointed at Rodrigo and Ximena. ¡°You two. Rodrigo go back to the priest so Ximena and I can walk down the aisle for the second time.¡±

    He shook his head lightly and mumbled something along the lines of ¡®Crazy and family.¡¯

    I looked at Jill and mouthed ¡®are you alright?¡¯

    She nodded her head and gave me a reassuring smile. She was so pretty. This time I couldn¡¯t help but let my eyes roam over her body.

    An angel. A Queen.

 118

    Even after bearing my child, she still looked wless and in shape. She was still the same girl I fell in love with in Mn, during a one night stand.

    Damn, time goes by so fast. Things changed so fast.

    ¡­¡­.

    ¡°I¡¯m hungry.¡± Amari poked me on my leg and looked at me with pouting lips. ¡°Hungry.¡± She looked so much like her mother when she needed something.

    I lifted her up and kissed her nose. ¡°What do you want, Princess?¡±Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.

    ¡°Cake.¡± She said happily. There¡¯s no doubt that she got her cake obsession from Ximena.

    ¡°What kind of cake? Red velvet, chocte, vani?¡± I asked as I showed her all the types of cakes on the desert table.

    ¡°All!¡± Amari looked at me and smiled. ¡°I want all!¡±

    I chuckled softly. ¡°You can¡¯t have it all, princess.¡± I poked her stomach. ¡°Otherwise you will get a stomach ache.¡±

    She pouted. ¡°Dad, I want all!¡± She wiggled and pointed at the floor. ¡°Down.¡± I put her down and before I could stop her she ran towards the desert table. I was about to ran after her when my dad called me.

    ¡°Flynn! Emergency family meeting!¡± he called out as he disappeared in the dressing room. I called my guard to watch over Amari as I followed my dad to the dressing room.

    Jill, Ximena, my mom, and Ellie were sitting on the sofa. They were all firing tons of questions at Jill.

    ¡°Where were you?¡±

    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell us about Amari?¡±

    Jill was very ufortable and I could just sense it. I cleared my throat and they all stopped talking. ¡°It¡¯s better if I can talk to Jill first.¡±

    My dad nodded. ¡°He¡¯s right. I just want to say¡ª¡± Dad paused and gave Jill a small smile, ¡°I¡¯m happy you¡¯re back and blessed us with a granddaughter. We¡¯re very grateful.¡±

    Jill smiled back at him. ¡°I¡¯m happy to be back and that Amari can finally meet all of you.¡± She looked around and panic was written all over her face.

    ¡°What is it?¡± I asked worried.

    ¡°Where¡¯s Amari?¡±

    ¡°Oh.¡± I said. ¡°She¡¯s outside with the guard. Don¡¯t worry.¡±

    Jill calmed down. ¡°Oh thank god. At this age she likes to explore, so she always need someone by her side to keep an eye on her.¡±

    ¡°You know, Jill.¡± Ximena said, smiling. ¡°Before the wedding I told Flynn to get you back. I didn¡¯t know he would literally do it!¡±

    ¡°That was just pure coincidence, Ximmy.¡± I chuckled. ¡°It was just pure coincidence I met her at the bakery shop.¡±

    Rodrigo shook his head and wiggled his eyebrows. ¡°Nah. More like faith. You two are meant for each other.¡±

    I red at Rodrigo and Jill coughed dramatically.

    ¡°I¡ªuhm will go to see what Amari is doing.¡± Jill stood up and walked to the door, but it swung open making Jill take a few steps back.

    My guard was standing at the door half his face covered in cake. ¡°What the hell is going on?¡± I asked my eyebrows scrunched up in confusion.

    ¡°Your daughter threw cake at me because I tried to get her off the table.¡± he answered and pointed at the desert table. ¡°She couldn¡¯t reach the cake, so she climbed on a chair to get to it.¡±

    Oh god! Not even fifteen minutes has passed by and this happens.

    ¡°I told you to watch over her!¡± I said through gritted teeth as I walked out of the room followed by Jill and my guard.

    ¡°I did!¡± He said. ¡°When I tried to get her off the table she threw the cake at me! It was not my fault!¡±

    I facepalmed myself when I saw Amari. Jill let out a loud gasp and her eyes widened.

    In the middle of the desert table sat Amari with Vani frosting on her face and chocte cake in her hand, grinning at us.

    ¡°Mommy, Dad, Cake! She squealed and stuffed her face with a big piece of chocte cake, looking all cute and adorable at the same time.

    How am I supposed to be mad at her?

    Jill Malik P. O. V

    Oh god, seeing Amari on the dessert table was too much. She was covered in chocte and vani cake.

    ¡°Mommy! Cake!¡± She squealed happily. Flynn took her from the dessert table and she smeared the frosting all over his face. Oh my goodness!

    ¡°What happened¡­ Oh my god!¡± Ximena stood behind me, shocked.

    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry Ximmy.¡± I apologized. ¡°I¡¯m really sorry for ruining your special day.¡±

    ¡°Ruining?!¡± She said andughed. ¡°I¡¯m so happy you¡¯re finally here. And Amari definitely got her cake obsession from me. If I was her, I would do the same honestly.¡± Ximena chuckled as she said that.

    ¡°Is there a bathroom here?¡± I asked as I took Amari from Flynn. Rodrigo nodded. ¡°Yes, there¡¯s one in the back. Flynn will you show where. He needs to take a bath too, his whole face is covered in frosting.¡±

    Flynn grunted and grabbed a tissue to wipe it off. ¡°Follow me.¡±

    I followed him and gave Amari a bath. Then I ask Flynn to bring clothes for her. I dressed her up and then we went back to the wedding reception.

    Many of McCallister and Vasilios family were here.

    ¡°Bloody hell, you have child? You never told me about your wife, Mr. Vasilios.¡± A british guy, with a very colorful outfit said in a thick british ent. He was handsome. Not as handsome as Flynn, but on a scale of one to ten he would be a nine and a half.

    ¡°I¡¯m not his wife.¡± I said to him.

    ¡°She¡¯s my girlfriend.¡± Flynn said and put his arm on my shoulders. ¡°She was¡­ oversea.¡±

    My eyes widened. Girlfriend. He really is out of his mind.

    ¡°Ahh, that exins.¡± The british guy said. He then looked at me and smiled. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I¡¯m Harvey Martin. I¡¯m your boyfriend¡¯s business partner. Pleasure to meet you Miss¡ª,¡±

    ¡°Malik. Jill Malik. The pleasure is all mine Mr. Martin.¡± I said smiling at him. Flynn¡¯s grip on my shoulder became tighter. I¡¯m not even his and he acts all possessive.

    ¡°You look stunning and so does your daughter.¡± He looked at Amari. ¡°I should say, she looks a lot like Flynn. How sad that you carried her nine months and shees out looking like her dad.¡± Heughed out loud.

    ¡°She doesn¡¯t mind Harvey. She loves me a lot, right pudding?¡±

    Pudding. He called me pudding. It brings back memories, I try to forget.

    I smiled tightly at him. ¡°Yes, I do. Now, if you will excuse me Harvey. I¡¯ll get some food for my daughter.¡±

    I took Amari from Flynn and walked to the buffet. I was not really hungry, but I just wanted to escape the awkward conversation with Harvey.

    And then I don¡¯t understand why Flynn pretended that we were dating. Why did he do that? He could have just told Harvey something, but not that. I¡¯m pretty sure I¡¯ll see Harvey more often, because he is the business partner of Flynn.

    ¡­¡­.

    I arrived at the apartmentte at night. Flynn came with me, because he held Amari the rest of the night. She was sleeping in his arms and even though I told him he could have put her on the couch, he insisted to hold her.

    ¡°Put her there.¡± I opened the bedroom door for Flynn so he could put the sleeping Amari on the bed. I put the nket on her and quietly exited the room. The room was still pretty empty. Tomorrow I would do some decorating and other stuff.

    ¡°Do you want to stay for a drink?¡± I asked as we entered the kitchen. The apartment was small, just enough for two people. It was beautifully decorated and it was also child-friendly. Just what I needed for Amari. Of course I like the mansion in Jordan better, but for now this should do it. Later on, If I can afford it I¡¯ll buy a bigger apartment or maybe even a house. And then I finally could bring Mn to study in the states.

    ¡°Sure, what do you have?¡± he asked as he settled on the bar stool. ¡°Have I told you that you looked stunning tonight.¡±

    I blushed when he said that. I will probably never get enough of hispliments. ¡°No, but thank you. Uhm there¡¯s coffee. I didn¡¯t do grocery shopping yet.¡±

    ¡°A coffee will do.¡±

    I made coffee for the both of us and when I served it to Flynn, an awkward silence followed. Flynn was the first one to speak. ¡°I¡¯m truly sorry, Jill.¡± His eyes was filled with remorse as he said that.

    ¡°I forgave you.¡± I told him. ¡°A long time ago. Don¡¯t worry.¡±

    ¡°I just don¡¯t know what else to say then. So much happened today, I met my daughter, you came back. It¡¯s so overwhelming. Why did you decide toe back after all these years?¡± He stared at his coffee as he asked me that question. His eyebrows were furrowed in a frown.

    ¡°Amari is getting bigger. She asked about you. I can¡¯t and I don¡¯t want to keep her away from you. You deserve to know her, Flynn.¡± I answered softly. ¡°You have done me wrong, not her.¡±

    ¡°Did it ever crossed your mind to start over again?¡± Flynn looked up at me with hopeful eyes.

    I sighed deeply. Have I? Of course. It happened a million times. I wanted toe back to New York, forgive him and be with him. He was all I will ever need. He was my soul mate. I knew it. And the feelings I have for him, i cannot have it for anyone else.

    He was always the only one. Since the beginning. Since that time in Mn.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know. I thought our love was a fairytale, but fairytales don¡¯t exist.¡±

    ¡°Do it for Amari? We can have our own fairytale. This will be our fairytale.¡± he said quietly.

    ¡°Amari should not be a reason for us to be together. You cheated on me. On our engagement party. You know the saying ¡®once a cheater, always a cheater¡¯. That¡¯s not a fairytale. Fairytales has happy endings. We don¡¯t.¡±

    Flynn scoffed. ¡°Seriously? That¡¯s not true. I changed okay. I realized that I lost my most prized possession, the day you left. You just disappeared. I was lost without you, Jill. We will never have a happy ending Jill. This time, I promise you this, that this time no human being will separate us. Only death will do us apart. It¡¯s a promise.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know what to say. We cannot be together. Or at least not right now. You hurt me badly. It took me forever to get over it.¡± I told him. ¡°It¡¯s not easy to forget what you did to me. You promised me so many things, and you broke all of them. You need to earn my trust back.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry.¡± he apologized. ¡°I¡¯ll do anything so you can trust me again.¡±

    ¡°Can you please stop apologizing? I forgave you already.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know what else to say. I would do anything to get you back. I need you. I made a mistake and I want to fix it.¡± He paused and then continued, ¡°I want my family back.¡±

    Jill Malik P. O. V

    ¡°Dad ising to pick you up, princess. Hurry up!¡± I yelled from the kitchen. I was preparing her breakfast and packed her lunchbox. I packed some sandwiches and her favorite juice and candy.

    I have no idea where Flynn would take her today, the only thing he said to mest night was that I should pack lunch for her. I hated when he gave me a call at the veryst moment. But what else can I do? It¡¯s Flynn we¡¯re talking about.

    In the past few weeks Flynn got really involved in Amari¡¯s life. While I was busy working at home, Flynn brought her to the yground, have lunch with her or meet up with Ximena. He was always trying to n something with her when he¡¯s free from work. It came out really well for me, because Amari requires a lot of attention, especially at this age.

    She wants to do everything I am doing. Even when I¡¯m in the toilet, she stands in front of the doorway, watching me, counting on her fingers for me, and saying the alphabet out loud in the wrong order. She wears my heels and leave them everywhere in the house. One time I almost tripped on one when I wasn¡¯t watching where I was walking.

    ¡°Mommy!¡± Amari entered the kitchen, dragging her doll behind her. ¡°kes.¡± She pointed at the box of cornkes on the kitchen counter.

    ###Chapter 25

    I couldn¡¯t help but stare at her in awe. She was so cute in her purple minnie mouse dress that I bought for herst week. The older she gets the more she looks like a miniature of Flynn. Her eyes, the shape of her face, and her thick eyshes. Definitely a Vasilios.

    ¡°Cornkes,¡± I corrected her as I caressed her head when she walked past me, ¡°But I made you pancakes. You don¡¯t want pancakes?¡± I flipped the pancakes over and put it on a te.

    Her eyes lit up when she saw me doing that. ¡°Yes, pancakes!¡±

    I chuckled and ced a te with a pancake, whipped cream, and strawberries in front of her. She jumped on the chair, letting her doll fall down on the floor making its head detach from the body and roll down the kitchen floor.

    My eyes widened as I watch it happen. Oh god ! And that¡¯s the reason why I never bought dolls for her.

    She got Finny, the name she gave the doll, from Flynn as a gift. The doll looked so alive, it scares the crap out of me. But I guess that¡¯s how dolls are made in this time period. While I couldn¡¯t stand Finny, Amari loved her. She brought her everywhere, much to my distaste.

    While I was cleaning the kitchen, the front door opened. Flynn had a key to my apartment, because sometimes he brought Amari homete and I was already asleep. When Amari heard the front door open and close she looked up at me with whipped cream all over her upper lip.

    ¡°Dad!¡± she squealed and jumped of the chair. She jumped into Flynn¡¯s arms and he lifted her up in the air.

    ¡°Princess, have you miss me?¡± heughed and kissed her forehead. ¡°You are growing up so fast!¡±

    I rolled my eyes and smiled, because thest time he saw her was three days ago.

    I wiped my hand on the towel and walked over to them. ¡°You¡¯re early.¡±

    Flynn put Amari down and walked over to me. ¡°Good Morning pudd¡ª Jill, I brought breakfast.¡± He handed me the Panera paper bag he had in his hand. ¡°There¡¯s Greek yogurt, Mozzare tbread, and Tuna sandwich.¡±

    I took the bag from him and opened it. The fresh smell of freshly baked bread entered my nostrils. ¡°Thank you, but the next time if you decide to bring food over, give me a call.¡±

    ¡°Why?¡± He asked, ¡°Did you prepare breakfast?¡±

    I nodded my head. ¡°Yeah, I made pancakes. Do you want some?¡±

    ¡°Yeah, I¡¯ll eat together with Amari. Right, princess?¡± He tickled Amari who was still holding onto him tightly. She nodded her head and smiled widely.

    I ced the te with pancakes on the table so Flynn could take how much he wanted. ¡°Are you ready for our pic?¡± he asked Amari, who sat next to him, licking her fingers. She dipped them in the whipped cream on her te and licked them clean afterwards. I told her so many times to not do it, but there¡¯s just this much that you can tell a toddler.

    ¡°You¡¯re going on a pic?¡± I asked, stuffing a strawberry in my mouth. I watch how Flynn wiped Amari¡¯s hand on a napkin

    ¡°Yes, a family pic. Do you want toe?¡± he asked casually. ¡°Would be a great way to spend time together with Amari.¡±

    The past few weeks, he had tried to include me in the outings he nned with Amari, but I always found an excuse to not go. He knows the exact reason why I don¡¯t want to go. Besides, Amari is doing just fine with us not being together. Sometimes we do have dinner as a family, but that¡¯s it.

    ¡°And you know what I think about it. It will take more than a couple of sorry¡¯s.¡± I muttered, as I scooped some whipped cream on my pancake.

    ¡°It¡¯s just a pic, Jill. It¡¯s not like we will do anything hanky panky.¡± Flynn grunted. ¡°My parents are going to be there and Ximena and Rodrigo.¡±

    ¡°And that¡¯s what it¡¯s about. Spending time with your family. You know where that will eventually lead.¡±

    ¡°And? I don¡¯t see a problem in that.¡± Flynn raised his eyebrows. ¡°I¡¯m totally fine with that, you know it.¡±

    ¡°You cheated on me du¡ª,¡± I couldn¡¯t finish my sentence, because Flynn interrupted me by loudly putting his silverware down on the table.

    He looked at Amari and whispered something I couldn¡¯t hear in her ear. She giggled and then ran out of the kitchen. Sometimes I wonder what kind of magic words he says to her, it takes me forever for her to listen to me.

    Flynn then turned his attention back to me. The loving and caring expression on his face was reced with a cold one. ¡°Are you always going to bring that up?¡± His voice sounded cold, almost harsh.

    ¡°It¡¯s hard to forget it.¡± I snapped, anger welling up in me. I¡¯m the one that is suppose to be mad and irritated, not him. Everytime and I mean, every time since I move back to New York, this was the topic we would fight over the most. ¡°Having Amari in our life doesn¡¯t mean we should get back together. She would be just fine with her parents not living in the same house.¡±

    Anger and pain shed in Flynn¡¯s eyes. ¡°You think so? God, I don¡¯t want that for my daughter. Our daughter. I want us to be together, because I know I still love you. I always will. And I know you still feel the same way¡ª,¡±

    ¡°Excuse me?!¡± I interrupted him, standing up from the table. ¡°Who the hell told you I still have feelings for you?¡±

    Flynn looked up at me, his eyes glistening. ¡°I just know. I can see it in your eyes.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re so delusional.¡±

    ¡°Amari needs us. We can still be together. It¡¯s not toote. Why can¡¯t we focus on the future Jill? Why can¡¯t we just move on?¡± Flynn asked, his voice soft and pleading.

    ¡°Because¡ª,¡± I stared at the pancakes on the table and continued in a whisper, ¡°I¡¯m afraid that history is going to repeat itself.¡±

    Jill Malik P. O. V

    A couple hourster I found myself sitting next to Flynn, driving to the pic destination. God, how did I end up here? In the back Amari was singing wheels on the bus for the nth time now. I think I might go crazy if we will not arrive soon.

    ¡°We¡¯re here!¡± Flynn announced as he pull up into a parking spot. He turned around and looked at Amari. ¡°Look Princess, Aunt Ximmy is there!¡± Amari immediately looked outside and squealed. ¡°Aunty Ximmy!¡± She fumbled with the seatbelt and tried to unbuckle it. ¡°Daddy! Help me!¡±

    Flynn stiffened and looked wideyed at his daughter.  I didn¡¯t realize why he was shocked, until I reyed what she said in my head. Oh shit !

 119

    I covered my face hiding my embarrassment, this is all my fault. I should have never had called him that. Without saying a word he stepped out of the car and walked to the back seat to unbuckle Amari. As soon as Flynn unbuckled her she jumped out of the car and ran towards Ximena. She grew so attached to Flynn¡¯s family since they pamper her and treat her like a princess.

    I stepped out of the car and walked over towards Flynn. ¡°Yeah, I think you should get over that word.¡± I said as I nudged him bringing him back to reality.

    ¡°Hell yeah! Why did you even call me that in the first ce?¡± He looked at me intently waiting for me to answer. I turned my face to the other side so the heat that was rushing to my face would not show. I just shrugged instead. ¡°We were young, things like that happen.¡±

    ¡°Calling me daddy?¡± he snorted. ¡°Yeah right.¡±

    I rolled my eyes and walked away. ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you didn¡¯t like it.¡±

    I heard him snicker behind me and judging by his footsteps he was following me. ¡°At one point I  did, but now¡­ not really.¡±

    His family spotted us walking towards them and a wide smile appeared on Rodrigo¡¯s face. ¡°Jill!¡± He greeted excitedly. ¡°Didn¡¯t expect to see you here.¡±

    ¡°Took me hours of convincing.¡± I heard Flynn mutter next to me. ¡°Hey mom, hey dad¡­ Geez old man that¡¯s a lot of roses you got there.¡±

    I look at Flynn¡¯s parents and from the looks of it they were still madly in love with each other. His father looked at us and grinned. ¡°Today is the anniversary when your mom and I met. Of course it asked for a celebration.¡±

    I let out a sigh as I watched them. They were so cute. The kind of couple goals everyone wants, but not everyone can get. Growing old with the person you love, how many of us don¡¯t want that? I turned around and looked at Amari who was taking selfies on Ximena¡¯s phone. I walked over to them.

    ¡°Are you having fun with Aunt Ximmy, princess?¡± I asked as I sat down next to Ximena on the grass. Amari nodded her head, but other than that shepletely ignored me. She was too focused on her face on the screen.

    ¡°She¡¯s going to be a social media influencerter. I can just feel it.¡± Ximena chuckled as she brushed a strand of hair out of Amari¡¯s face. ¡°Look at her, she knows exactly what her good angle is. Smart girl.¡±

    ¡°Oh hell no!¡± Flynn butted in as he waved his hand in dismissal. ¡°She¡¯s gonna be a CEO like daddy right princess?¡±

    Rodrigo who stood next to Flynn choked on his soda. He coughed a couple of times before he sputtered out; ¡°Daddy?!¡±

    I rolled my eyes and muttered; ¡°Very mature.¡±

    ¡°Thest time he didn¡¯t even wanted to hear that word. I¡¯m just shocked!¡± Rodrigoughed and patted Flynn on his back. ¡°You are what we call daddy material.¡±

    Flynn gritted his teeth and pped Rodrigo¡¯s hand away. ¡°Shut up will you? How¡¯s it like to be married?¡±

    Rodrigo shrugged. ¡°Nothing¡¯s changed. Only that I get to see her every second of the day. Aren¡¯t you bored of me yet babe?¡±

    ¡°Oh I am veryyy bored.¡± Ximena answered sarcastically. ¡°Can you believe it? He doesn¡¯t even want to spice it up with some handcuffs.¡±

    My eyes widened and I choked on air. ¡°There are kids here!¡±

    Flynn chuckled and shook his head. ¡°You guys are crazy. I¡¯ll go back to mom and dad, they brought a lot of food there.¡±

    ¡°Can you leave the old man alone? He¡¯s trying to earn mom¡¯s forgiveness.¡± Ximena said as she braided Amari¡¯s hair.

    ¡°What did he do again?¡± Flynn asked.

    ¡°He forgot Poker¡¯s birthday.¡±

    Iughed as I remembered that Poker was their dog. Flynnughed too and said; ¡°Mom is always so extra.¡±

    ¡°She has always been like that. Anyways can you bring some snacks over here. I¡¯m starving.¡± Ximena said as she look up at Flynn and Rodrigo. ¡°Please?¡±

    They both shook their heads and muttered something along the lines of ¡®beingzy¡¯ and ¡®such a princess¡¯ before they walked to the pic table where all the food was.

    When they were out of earshot Ximena patted the seat next to her and motioned me to sit. ¡°How is with you and my brother?¡±

    I gulped, but decided to gave her my honest answer. ¡°You know what he did Ximmy¡ª,¡±

    ¡°Oh I do and I hate him so much for it! I don¡¯t know why he can be so selfish and reckless sometimes.¡±

    ¡°But¡ª,¡± I said my voice cracking, ¡°I forgave him, but it¡¯s going to take a while to trust him again.¡±

    Ximena smiled faintly at me. ¡°I¡¯m so happy that you forgave him. He was a wreck you know. After you left.¡± She paused to take a deep breath. ¡°It was heartbreaking to see him like that, but I also knew how you felt after you saw those pictures. Trust me, I¡¯ve been there, I¡¯ve felt it.¡±

    ¡°What are you trying to tell me?¡± I asked quietly. ¡°That I should just go back to him and forget what happened? It¡¯s not that easy Ximmy. He hurt me badly.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t ask you to do that, Jill. No pressure at all. I just want to say that he truly loves you. The past was a mistake. A stupid dumb mistake. What I¡¯m trying to say is that one day I hope you can give him a chance again.¡± Ximena smiled in the distance as if she could already see Flynn and I being together. ¡°And¡­ I want to have more Amari¡¯s. Damn, I grew so attached to her.¡±

    Iughed at thest part. ¡°Why don¡¯t you and Rodrigo make one?¡±

    Ximena stared at me in horror. ¡°What?! Popping a human out of my¡­?! Nope, nope, nope. Not ready yet for that!¡±

    This time Iughed out loud. ¡°Geez Ximmy, you make it seem like it¡¯s that bad.¡±

    She looked confused at me. ¡°It isn¡¯t?¡±

    ¡°Well actually it is.¡± I answered truthfully.

    ¡°See that¡¯s what I mean. But Rodrigo wants a whole ser team.¡± She rolled her eyes as she said that. ¡°The more, the merrier he said.¡±

    ¡°What did you tell him?¡±

    ¡°I asked him if I looked like a make-a-baby machine to him.¡± She answered sarcastically andughed. Then she looked around and leaned into me and whispered, ¡°But honestly I always wanted to have a house full of children.¡±

    ¡­¡­.

    ###Chapter 26

    It was alreadyte at night when we drove back home. The ride home was quiet, because Amari was sleeping in my hands. She looked so tired after a whole afternoon of ying and singing with her aunt, uncle, and grandparents.

    When we arrived home Flynn opened the door for me and took Amari from me. He carried her inside and tucked her in as I was standing in the doorway watching them.

    So peaceful. So perfect even though it wasn¡¯t.

    After he turned the air conditioning on he walked back outside and closed the door behind him. ¡°Thank you.¡± I said as I walked him out. ¡°For bringing us to your family pic.¡±

    He smiled and kissed the knuckles of my hand. ¡°Anything for my Princess and Pudding.¡±

    My heart squeezed when he said that. ¡°Flynn I¡¯m¡ª,

    ¡°It¡¯s okay.¡± He whispered softly, letting go of my hand. ¡°It¡¯s okay. I will take things slowly, but I promise that I¡¯ll get my family back.¡± He walked back to his car and turned around shing me a bright smile.

    ¡°No matter what!¡±

    Jill Malik P. O. V

    ¡°You¡¯re not going back to that douchebag! I don¡¯t approve !¡±

    Aunt Lydia yelled in the speaker, I had to hold my phone away from my ear for a second. Geez, this woman.

    ¡°Tia,¡± I sighed, massaging my temples. ¡°I forgave him and Amari needs her father. I cannot keep her away from him.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t care if you forgave him!¡± She hissed angrily. ¡°He will never get my blessings. Not over my dead body!¡±

    I gasped and covered my mouth with my hand. Amari who was ying in the corner, looked up at me confused. ¡°Don¡¯t say that tia, you should learn how to forgive people. Life is too short,¡± I took a deep breath and continued, ¡°People deserve second chances.¡±Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.

    Aunt Lydia scoffed and in the background I heard the shuffling of chairs. ¡°So you tell me that rapists and murderers deserve second chances. For someone who graduated with a bachelor degree you sure are dumb if ites to love.¡±

    ¡°Tia !,¡± I was so tired of her mocking me. Yes, I get it, she doesn¡¯t like Flynn anymore. She hated him and called him a manwhore. She couldn¡¯t believe what he did to me and she was so close to mutte his balls. Good thing he lived in the states and she lived in Barcelona.

    ¡°You cannotpare a cheater to a rapist or murderer. That¡¯s likeparing a house and a chicken. I know he kissed that woman, but¡ª,¡± I paused for a second, ¡°He¡¯s my soulmate, tia. We are meant to be.¡±

    Theugh that I heard from the other side of the line sounded so false, I wanted to vomit. ¡°Soulmate?! Do you even hear yourself, child! He¡¯s nothing but a cheating bastard. Once a cheater, always a cheater. He will do it again!¡±

    ¡°Be reasonable tia!¡± I yelled through the speaker. Amari looked up at me and there was fear in her eyes. I hurriedly walked over to her and said in a soothing voice: ¡°It¡¯s okay, princess. I¡¯m not mad at you. I¡¯ll be back in a minute okay? Stay in the bedroom.¡±

    I walked outside to the balcony and continued, ¡°When I was younger I did a lot of stuff I regrettedter on and¡ª,¡±

    Aunt Lydia interrupted me. ¡± You said it yourself! When you were younger. Flynn was an adult for god sake! I don¡¯t know when you will realize that, Chica!¡±

    ¡°I believe in second chances,  tia. Life is toplicated to get everything right the first time and I don¡¯t want one mistake to ruin a beautiful thing.¡±

    I heard Aunt Lydia sigh on the other side of the line. ¡°And do you want to know what I believe in? I believe that rtionships should always have second chances. Always, hija.  But the exception is cheating. Never take someone back who cheats.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t believe in that,  tia.¡± I answered stubbornly. ¡°I don¡¯t want to talk about this anymore with you. You don¡¯t understand me. Where¡¯s Mn?¡±

    ¡°No I don¡¯t, chica. You want to go back to a cheater. A c-h-e-a-t-e-r, he broke your heart!  Of course I will not understand!¡± Aunt Lydia sighed and I heard a soft murmur in the background. ¡°Do you want to talk to mommy, Mn?¡±

    There was a pause and then I heard Aunt Lydia¡¯s voice again. ¡°He¡¯s drawing and he doesn¡¯t want to be disturbed. Maybe you can call againter. He miss Pearl.¡±

    Mn called Amari, Pearl. When I was pregnant with Amari I got a seashell with a pearl from Reina. Mn found it so beautiful, that he asked me the meaning of a pearl. I could still hear his demanding voice in my ears. ¡°What is a pearl mommy? It is so beautiful. Tell me mommy, what is a pearl.¡±

    When Amari was born and he saw her, his eyes lit up like fireworks. His lips curled into a smile as he leaned in to kiss her on her rosy cheeks. ¡°She looks like a pearl mommy. The one you have in your room. Can I call her pearl?¡±

    He never called her Amari. It was always pearl or baby sister.

    ¡°Pearl miss him too. I will let you guyse over very soon. Or maybe Amari and I wille to Barcelona. I¡¯ll see if the timees.¡± I said softly.

    ¡°That¡¯s great, hija. I miss you too very much. You know that I always want the best for you.¡±

    ¡°Then why can¡¯t you forgive Flynn?¡± I asked staring down from the balcony. Cars were passing by, it was rush hour.

    ¡°Don¡¯t even mention his name,¡± Aunt Lydia said through gritted teeth. ¡°I don¡¯t want to hear anything about that douchebag.¡±

    ¡°Goodbye tia,¡± Suddenly I didn¡¯t want to talk to her any longer. It hurts that Aunt Lydia cannot forgive Flynn.

    ¡°Bye, chica. Don¡¯t forget to callter to talk to Mn.¡± She reminded me.

    ¡°I will not forget.¡±

    I ended the call and walked back inside the bedroom. My eyes searched for Amari, but I couldn¡¯t find her. Oh god, where the hell did she go?

    I walked out of the bedroom and I heard noisesing from the kitchen. When I entered the kitchen Amari was on top of the table, eating cereal straight out of the box. Milk was dripping from all corners of the box. I looked down at the floor and there was a huge puddle with milk next to a open bottle of milk I bought yesterday.

    Oh. my. god.

    ¡­¡­.

    ¡°What did she do?¡± Reina bursted outughing as I told her about the cereal and milk. I spent the whole afternoon cleaning up the mess Amari made. I couldn¡¯t stay mad at her, not when she was batting her eyshes and pouting her lips at me.

    ¡°It¡¯s not funny.¡± I said as I quietly closed the door of the bedroom. Amari fell asleep half an hour ago and since I didn¡¯t want to wake her up I sneaked quietly out of the bedroom. ¡°Wait until you get yours. You will deal with the same things.¡±

    ¡°Oh please no!¡± Reina yelled out on the other side of the line. ¡°I hope he or she will be a nice sweet baby.¡±

    I chuckled and sat down on the couch. ¡°There¡¯s no such thing as nice sweet baby, Reina. They all cry, poop, and eat.¡±

    ¡°Please don¡¯t start! Anyways how are things going over there? Is everything alright between Flynn and you?¡± She asked.

    ¡°He wants us back.¡±

    There was a second of silent. Followed by a squeal. ¡°He does?! That¡¯s amazing! Amari will have her dad, you will have your man. Such a happily ever after.¡±

    I rolled my eyes. ¡°Don¡¯t forget that he cheated on me and Aunt Lydia can¡¯t forgive him. I¡¯m so confused Rei, I want to give him a second chance. But I don¡¯t know.¡±

    ¡°What do you want? If you want to give him a second chance, you should. Life is too short, live in the moment.¡±

    ¡°I want too, but at the same time I¡¯m afraid.¡± I answered honestly. ¡°I¡¯m afraid that he¡¯s going to do the same thing again. It will make me a fool.¡±

    ¡°Being a fool is not always bad, you know.¡± Reina said and groaned, ¡°Jesus, the baby is awake and is not giving me a good time¡­. Ah! The baby just kicked.¡± I could hear the happiness in her voice. I can imagine her smiling as she rubbed her belly. ¡°What did I say again? Oh yeah, if he does the same thing again, he is a fool. Not you. Remember that.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know. I really don¡¯t know.¡± I sighed and put my feet on the table. ¡°I¡¯m torn between giving a chance and not giving at all. Will it be unfair to Amari?¡±

    ¡°Unfair? No, of course not. Having a child does not mean that two people should be together.¡±

    ¡°I told him that.¡± I said.

    ¡°Do you love him? Reina asked suddenly.

    ¡°How crazy it may sound. Yes, I do. I actually do.¡±

    Flynn Vasilios P. O. V

    I sat in my office finishing thetest project I was working on. I haven¡¯t seen my pudding and my princess in three days, since I was in Singapore to close a business deal. But tonight, I¡¯m going over to their ce to have dinner. I am so excited !

    The door of my office opened and Rodrigo sauntered in. He wore a navy blue suit, seems like someone just came out of a meeting. ¡°Haven¡¯t you heard of knocking?¡± I said, looking up at him. He sat down across me and put his leg on my table. The nerve. ¡°Get your leg off my table, dumbass.¡±

    He ignored me and just stared at me, dead in the eye. Sometimes Rodrigo could be fucking creepy, just like now. ¡°How¡¯s with Jill? Did she forgive you yet?¡±

    I closed myptop and sighed. Typically Rodrigo to look out for Jill. ¡°Nah, not anytime soon.¡±

    ¡°Good.¡± Rodrigo said, a smile ying on his lips. ¡°I like a stubborn, hard-to-get woman. You broke her trust, what did you expect? Now who¡¯s the dumbass?¡±

    When Rodrigo heard what I had done to Jill he punched me in the face. And after that he didn¡¯t talk to me for a month. A WHOLE month. Talk about being dramatic. ¡°Are you here to rub this in my face? You think she was the only one that suffered.¡±

    ¡°She was the only one that suffered the most!¡± Rodrigo put his feet down and sat up straight in the chair. ¡°If I were her, I would have never forgave you. But at the same time, I know how much you love her. You would give your life up for her. I know it and that¡¯s why I cannot stay mad at you.¡±

    ¡°I still love her. So much. It actually hurts¡­,¡± I pointed at my heart. ¡°Here.¡±

    ¡°What happened to Zoe? Heard anything about her after you ruined her career and reputation?¡± Rodrigo asked,ughing evilly. He was such a happy man when I ruined Zoe. He literally celebrated it for two weeks straight.

 120

    I chuckled. ¡°Bitch is somewhere in Australia I think. Or maybe in some poor neighborhood in India. I don¡¯t know, I don¡¯t care. She should have never messed with me.¡±

    ¡°She was hopelessly in love with you.¡± Rodrigo remarked. ¡°Damn, you two were once inseparable.¡±

    Inseparable. ¡°Haha, you think?¡± Iughed. ¡°Friends can turn into snake. Tssk. Tssk. She turned into the biggest one.¡±

    ¡°Leave Zoe. Hell, what happened to that Sera chick? The one you cheated¡ª,¡±

    ¡°I know which one you mean,¡± I grumbled annoyed. ¡°Probably with her sugardaddy somewhere in the middle east. I don¡¯t know, I don¡¯t care either. Both their personalities are ugly as hell.¡±

    ¡°But still you couldn¡¯t¡ª,¡±

    I didn¡¯t let Rodrigo finished his sentence, because that means another insult. This guy cannot get enough of insulting me. I almost wanted to stab him in the face and then rush him to the hospital.

    ¡°Can we stop talking about the past? I cannot change anything. I¡¯m still thinking about ways how to win Jill¡¯s trust back.¡± I looked out of the window. ¡°She¡¯s such a precious thing. Do you know how much I hate myself right now? God, I sound like a pussy.¡±

    ¡°You sound like a man.¡± Rodrigo corrected me. ¡°A man who wants his woman back.¡±

    Rodrigo phone went off. He checked it and sighed deeply. ¡°I don¡¯t regret to be a married man, but damn your sister can be such a goddamn tease.¡±

    I scrunched my face. ¡°Disgusting. Don¡¯t talk about your nightly adventures with me.¡±

    Rodrigoughed out loud. ¡°Seriously? You¡¯re the one with the daddy kink.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t do it anymore. I just realized how fucked up it sound. Geez, why did Jill even called me that.¡±

    Rodrigo stood up and ruffled his hair. ¡°Well, I will see youter. Wifey wants pizza.¡±

    ¡­¡­.

    What colors roses do Jill like? Pink? Red? Why are there even so many? Damn it. I gave up and picked out a pink bouquet with roses for my princess and a red one for Jill. Yeah, both for my girls. They deserve it.

    I paid for the roses and went back to the car, driving to Jill¡¯s apartment. I couldn¡¯t wait to see them. I have missed them so much, especially Amari. She¡¯s growing up so fast.

    I parked my car and grabbed the roses from the passenger seat. I got the key from her apartment and opened the door. Jill insisted that I should have a key, because I often brought Amari homete. Sometimes she didn¡¯t wanted to get disturbed since she had to work the next day.

    When I closed the door behind me a squealing Amari jumped on me. ¡°Daddy! You¡¯re home.¡± She looked up at me excitedly and smiled. ¡°I missed you.¡±

    I squatted down and hugged her tightly. ¡°I missed you too, princess. I brought you roses and candy? Do you like candy.¡±

    She shook her head. ¡°I love cake.¡±

    Oh of course, how could I forget that. ¡°Well,¡± I said. ¡°Maybe we can get some cake after dinner.¡±

    Amari¡¯s eyes lit up and her cheeks turned pink. So cute. ¡°Yes! Mommy, mommy!¡± She grasped my hand and dragged me to the kitchen. ¡°Mommy! Daddy says cake.¡±

    Jill wiped her hand on a table cloth and looked up at us. ¡°Oh, hey there. Did he brought cake?¡±

    Amari shook her head. ¡°No, he said¡ª,¡±

    ¡°We will get caketer. Right, princess.¡± I said smiling, as I looked down at my little princess. ¡°Why don¡¯t you go y? I brought you a new toy.¡± I handed her the gift bag and she immediately ran to the living room.

    ¡°You¡¯re spoiling her.¡± I heard Jill say next to me. ¡°Food, toys, outings. She doesn¡¯t need that, she just needs your time.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m a busy man, Jill. I was in Singapore for three days, you didn¡¯t want toe.¡±

    ¡°Of course not.¡± she said frustratingly. ¡°I¡¯m not going to give up my work just for you.¡±

    ¡°And you don¡¯t want us back. I don¡¯t have a choice. I cannot wake up next to Amari every morning.¡±

    She sighed and continued setting the table. She wore a pink dress that reached her thighs. So beautiful, even after she gave birth to my daughter. She had a kind of understated beauty. In her presence I felt showered with love and in her eyes shone a gentleness that told me that, atst, I was home. She was home.

    ¡°What are you thinking about?¡± She asked softly, her beautiful eyes looking up at me. ¡°I¡¯m not ready yet, you know that.¡±

    ¡°When will you be ready then?¡± I was getting impatient. I just wanted toe home. Not to an empty mansion. But to her. I loved her so much. I don¡¯t want one stupid mistake to ruin everything. Communication is the key. And I¡¯m trying to use it for once, but it¡¯s only killing me.

    ¡°When I¡¯m ready, I¡¯ll tell you. If you think it¡¯s easy, then you¡¯re wrong. I don¡¯t even want to think how many girls were in your life when I wasn¡¯t.¡±

    When she said that my eyes darkened and a piece of my heart broke. Is that how she thinks of me? My woman thinks that she¡¯s receable. She thinks that I was dipping my dick in some other girls¡ª

    Goddamn it!

    I walked over to her and grabbed her by her upper arm. I turned her around so she could look in my eyes and see the truth. The pain.

    ¡°I have hurt you, Jill. Damn it, I even admit I did it! But do you even realize how much your disappearance affected me? Have you? ¡± I gnashed. ¡°I want us back, I would do anything to have us back. Why are you making it so hard!¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re hurting me.¡± She squeaked and I immediately let go of her arm. Goddamnit! I haven¡¯t even realized that my grip on her was so strong.

    ¡°Think about it, Jill. I¡¯ll keep and keep on trying. I¡¯ll not rest until I get my family back. Forgive me, pudding. Please.¡±

    ¡°I told you so many times.¡± She hissed angrily. ¡°I already forgave you, Vasilios. A long time ago. I mean I knew you wouldn¡¯t change, I was just stupid to not see it.¡±

    ###Chapter 27

    That was thest drop.

    After everything, this is how she thinks of me. Yes, I¡¯m a man, but I do have feelings. If someone else would say it, it wouldn¡¯t even faze me. But hearing it from Jill, it hurts. She doesn¡¯t realize how much her words affected me. She doesn¡¯t see it. Because I don¡¯t show it.

    Hurt flickered in my eyes, but I blinked it away before she could see it. I took a deep breath. ¡°It hurts that you still think about me like that. You say that you forgave me, but you haven¡¯t. You still hold a grudge against me¡ª,¡± I pointed with my finger at her chest. ¡°Here. And for your information, I have been celibate the entire time you were gone. Yeah I basically became a fucking nun, male version. I couldn¡¯t do you dirty like that, Jill.¡±

    I took a step back, leaving her speechless. I grabbed the roses on the table and gave them to her, before walking out of the kitchen.

    Suddenly I didn¡¯t feel hungry anymore. I was just angry and sad. Guess there¡¯s only one thing left.

    Going back to an empty mansion¡­. Again.

    Jill Malik P. O. V

    ¡°Ethan¡­¡± I sobbed as I held my phone close to my ear.  My hands were shaking and I felt a headacheing up. ¡°I¡¯m so confused, I yelled at him and he walked out on me. I still love him, but at the same time¡­. I¡¯m so lost.¡±

    ¡°Hush, Calm now. It¡¯s alreadyte at night over there. You should be in bed right now.¡± Ethan said in a soothing voice. ¡°You were not harsh to him. Maybe a little. But you are broken Jill, don¡¯t expect everything to go perfect and smooth.¡±

    I wiped away my tears and sniffed. ¡°But Ethan. I¡¯m so confused, I don¡¯t know what to do. I thought it would be easy , but it¡¯s not.¡±

    I could feel my heart crumble when Flynn angrily walked out of my apartment. I wanted him to hug me, soothe me, convince me that he changed. But I don¡¯t feel like he¡¯s doing enough. Or do I just have high expectations?

    I heard Ethan sigh on the other side of the line. ¡°He wille around, okay? Flynn wille around. He loves you, he¡¯s not going to stay mad at you.¡±

    ¡°But I was so mean to him.¡± I sobbed again, more tears flowing on my cheeks. ¡°I can¡¯t stay like this. It¡¯s too painful.¡±

    ¡°Go to sleep. Tomorrow is a new day, everything is going to be alright.  Goodnight, Jill.¡±

    ¡°Goodnight, E.¡±

    I put my phone down and looked at the sleeping Amari. She was sleeping so peacefully, her hair covering half of her face. I should have braided her hair before she fell asleep. I carried Amari inside the bedroom andyed down next to her. My eyes were puffy from crying and my heart was aching, but I managed to fall asleep.

    Under the covers I cuddled with Amari to keep the nightmares away. Amari was my peace, when she was close to me I slept peacefully. No nightmares, but a very restful sleep.

    ¡­¡­.

    I sneezed.

    I sneezed again.

    What the hell? I felt sunrays kissing my face. Did I left the curtains openst night?

    I opened my eyes and blinked twice before I saw a pair of ocean blue eyes staring at me. My eyes grew wide and I woke up instantly. ¡°AAAHHHH!!¡± I yelled as loud as I could before punching the person in front of me in the face. I was still not fully awake. My eyes were open, but my head was somewhere else.

    ¡°Ah fuck, Jill!¡± a familiar voice groaned in pain. ¡°Jesus, why are you so violent?¡±

    ¡°Flynn?!¡± I yelled out half surprised, half in shock. Now that my vision cleared I saw that the person I just punched in the face was Flynn. ¡°What the hell are you doing here?¡±

    ¡°I made breakfast for you.¡± he said, rubbing the side of his face where I¡¯d punched. It turned red and damn I felt so sorry for him. Flynn was dressed in his suit, ready to go to work. He looked so freaking damn handsome.

    ¡°Wha¨CWhat?!¡± I was so confused right now. I thought he was mad at me. ¡°You were mad  at me yesterday.¡±

    He chuckled lightly. ¡°Pudding, you know I cannot stay mad at you. If you think I gave up  on us, you¡¯re wrong.¡± Flynn looked at me lovingly and then took a deep breath. ¡°I had to walk out, because I needed time for myself. I didn¡¯t want to take my frustration out on you.¡±

    I opened my mouth to say something, but next to me Amari moved. ¡°Daddy!¡± She instantly woke up and crawled towards Flynn. There she goes, stealing him from me again. The corners of my lips curled into a smile.

    Flynn smiled at her and took her into his arms. He peppered her face with kisses and she giggled.

    I do feel jealous of Amari sometimes. She¡¯s so carefree, she has nothing to worry about. At least not at this age. She doesn¡¯t know anything about what happened between her mommy and daddy. In her head we¡¯re the perfect parents.

    And I want to keep it like that. I want us to be the perfect parents for her.

    ¡°I made breakfast for you, princess.¡± Flynn handed her a bowl with sliced bananas and strawberries. ¡°Sit next to mommy and don¡¯t spill it on the sheets yeah¡­ Oh look, I also have cake.¡± Flynn opened the white box on the tray and showed her the red velvet cake.

    ¡°She cannot have cake so early in the morning.¡± I said and closed the box again. ¡°Later, after lunch.¡±

    ¡°Mommy!¡± Amari and Flynn yelled out in unison.

    I shook my head and chuckled. Like father, like daughter. ¡°You know the rules, babygirl.¡±Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.

    ¡°I also made breakfast for you,¡± Flynn handed me a te with a sandwich, scrambled eggs and bacon. ¡°I made you coffee and tea, because I don¡¯t know which one you prefer.¡±

    My heart was so full. This was so sweet. Even though he sneaked into my apartment and I should be mad at him for that, he did make breakfast for us which basically makes up for it. ¡°I¡¯ll have coffee. Aren¡¯t you going to have breakfast?¡±

    ¡°I already had breakfast, I¡¯m just going to watch my girls eat.¡±

    When Amari saw that her dad was not eating she insisted on sharing her fruit bowl with him. Flynn had to convince her that he already ate and if he would eat too much he would get a stomach ache.

    After we were done eating, Flynn yed with Amari on the bed. He chased her on the bed, making her jump on me and pulling my hair in the process.

    I literally saw unicorns and stars passing by. That¡¯s how hard her grip was on my hair.

    ¡°It¡¯s enough now, you two!¡± I grabbed Amari and ced her on myp while massaging my scalp. ¡°It¡¯s time to go take a shower. Aren¡¯t you supposed to be somewhere Flynn?¡±

    Flynn was dressed very formal. He wore his business suit so that means he needs to be somewhere. I don¡¯t think he would make breakfast for us dressed in a business suit. And if he did¡­ well then, that would be a whole new level of being extra.

    ¡°Yeah, I need to be at work at¡­,¡± He looked at his watch and frowned. ¡°Right now.¡± He stood up, straightened his suit and ced all the empty and dirty bowls and cups on the tray. He then turned to us and ced a kiss on both, my and Amari¡¯s forehead.

    My body tensed when he did that. It felt so right yet wrong. I want to run towards him, yet stay away. I want to be strong and nonchnt but I cannot be.

    I want him. I miss him so goddamn much. Despite what he had done, I still love him as much as I did in the beginning. And that was since the day in Mn. Since the one night stand.

    ¡°See youters girls.¡±

    I snapped out of my trance and saw that Flynn was almost at the door. ¡°Flynn!¡± I called out. He turned around and looked at me with raising eyebrows. ¡°Yes?¡±

    I gulped and took a deep breath. I thought so long about this. It¡¯s the right thing to do. For me, Amari, and our future. Sometimes I just have to take a chance. And right now, I¡¯m going to do it.

    ¡°I¡­ uhmm, I thought about it and¡­¡± I bit my bottom lip to stop it from quivering. ¡°I want to give us another chance.¡±

    Flynn Vasilios P. O. V

    I cannot believe it ! Fuck, finally ! I don¡¯t think I could live another day without my girls. The happiness I felt when she said that she wants to give us a chance. Damn, it was indescribable. I immediately ran towards her and hugged her tightly. She stiffened when I did that, but rxed afterwards. It felt so weird yet amazing to hold her after so long. I forgot how perfectly she fitted in my arms.

    My queen.

    ¡°Your smile is creepy. Stop it man!¡± Rodrigo snapped me out of my thoughts. His hair was disheveled when he arrived here, probably because he did a quickie with Ximmy. Gross if I think about it. ¡°Care to exin why you invited me to have coffee with you? Did you close another deal?¡±

    I usually invited Rodrigo to have coffee or dinner with me when I close another sessful business deal, but this time it was something more important than that.

    ¡°Jill is giving me another chance.¡± I said casually, but inside I was jumping in joy. I couldn¡¯t help but smile a little when I said that. I felt like a hormonal teenage boy who just talked to his crush.

 121

    ¡°You¡¯re not serious.¡± Rodrigo stared at me wide-eyed. He was also surprised.

    ¡°Dead serious.¡±

    ¡°Lucky asshole.¡± Rodrigo muttered underneath his breath, but I could hear the relieve in his voice. When Jill left me, he saw the condition I was in. I know how worried he was, but he never showed it. Instead he punched me in the face and called me names that I definitely deserved.¡±Be thankful that Jill is so soft hearted. You would have never got another chance if she was another female.¡±

    I nodded in agreement. That¡¯s so true. I should never take Jill for granted. She¡¯s an angel from heaven. I¡¯m pretty sure that any other girl would have never forgive me. I mean who would forgive a cheater? Someone who has a big fucking heart.  ¡°I¡¯m not gonna mess it up this time. It¡¯s a promise. I¡¯m going to keep her happy until myst breath.¡±

    ¡°Good.¡± Rodrigo took a sip of his coffee. ¡°Because I¡¯m not going to spare your face this time.¡±

    I gave him the finger and heughed loudly. ¡°I mean it. Don¡¯t think that because I¡¯m your brother-inw I¡¯m going to spare you.¡±

    ¡°I got the warning. Chill that ass down.¡±

    The rest of the afternoon we spent talking about our business and the people we work with. Rodrigo wanted to start a business in Greece, but I told him about the disadvantages about starting a business in Greece. Since I¡¯m more experienced, he took my advice and said that he would think about it and discuss it with the rest of the team.

    Tonight I promised Jill and Amari that I would take them out. Have fun, like a normal family. What I didn¡¯t tell them was the surprise I had nned for them. Nothing big. Just a trip to another country.

    Now that Jill finally gave me a chance, it was time to prove to her that I would make a great dad and husband. I know it¡¯s too early to think about that, but it¡¯s progress. I want my girls happy and smiling as long as I¡¯m in their lives.

    I couldn¡¯t wait for them to see the ce I had rented for them. It was so beautiful with a big backyard, something me nor Jill had in New York. I was contemting on inviting Aunt Lydia and Mn, but Jill told me that Aunt Lydia needed time to ept me back in the family.

    I couldn¡¯t me the woman, I screwed up. I do miss Mn though, I haven¡¯t seen him in so long. I wonder if he still remembers me. I can¡¯t wait to meet up with him again.

    I dialed Jill¡¯s number and when she picked up I asked; ¡°Are my girls ready?¡±

    I heard her sigh. ¡°Yes, but can you please give us a hint except packing our suitcases?¡±

    ¡°You will see, pudding.¡± I said chuckling. ¡°My driver is going to pick you up. I¡¯ll see you in a bit.¡±

    I ended the call and walked inside the ne to see if everything was ready. I was actually supposed to pick my girls up. But I figured that the entire ride they would question me about the destination we were going. And since it¡¯s hard to keep secrets from them I gave orders to my driver to pick them up.

    ¡°Is everything ready?¡± I asked the new Flight attendant, Theo. He nodded his head. ¡°Yes, sir. We¡¯re ready to leave.¡±

    ¡°Good, if my girls arrive bring them to me. You know where to find me.¡±

    He nodded his head like a good schoolboy. ¡°Yes, sir.¡±

    He just graduated as a flight attendant and this was his first time flying to another country. So far he¡¯s doing a good job. I hope he stays like this, maybe I can give him a permanent position here.

    I sat in the leather seat waiting for Jill and Amari to arrive. I was so excited to see them. I brought them flowers, cupcakes, and Amari¡¯s favorite red velvet cake. My little princess got a serious ¡®eating cake¡¯ issue. She could devour boxes after boxes of cake.

    ¡°Daddy!¡± Amari jumped out of Jill¡¯s arms and ran towards me. My girls have arrived. Jill looked around and a smile formed on her lips.

    ¡°Princess!¡± I chuckled as I kissed her nose. She smelled like flowers and strawberry.¡±How are you?¡±

    Amari was growing up so fast. I hate it. I want her to stay my little baby girl and not grow into a teenager. Before I know I¡¯ll have to deal with boyfriends and all that stuff. Maybe I should tell Amari about the advantages of being a nun. I might consider doing that.

    ¡°Good! Where are we going?¡± She asked happily and jumped on the seat across me. She sat there waiting for my answer.

    ¡°Yes Flynn, where are we going?¡± Jill put her hands on her hips and raised her eyebrows at me. She looks so pretty when she does that. Makes me want to go up to her and kiss her, but it¡¯s just too early for that. One step at a time. Take things slowly.

    Does she even know that she¡¯s the most beautiful woman I have ever seen? I should probably tell her that. She needs a reminder.

    ¡°Somece fun.¡± I answered mysteriously and motioned for her to sit down. She sat down next to Amari, across me.

    ¡°Let me guess. To another state?¡±

    I shook my head. ¡°Wrong. More like to another country.¡±

    Jill¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°Are you serious? Which country?¡±

    ¡°Scond.¡±

    Flynn Vasilios P. O. V

    ¡°What?!¡± I yelled out bewildered at the flight attendant. Theo just smiled apologetically at me. He just brought me the news that it was impossible to enter the UK let alone Scond, because of the heavy snow storm.

    ¡°Ssshh.¡± Jill rocked Amari who was sleeping in her hands back and forth. ¡°What happened?¡± She whispered.

    ¡°We cannot enter Scond. There¡¯s a heavy snowstorm going on. It¡¯s impossible.¡± Theo exined to Jill. He then looked at me. ¡°Didn¡¯t you check the weather in Scond?¡±

    ¡°It was good earlier today. Even the pilot agreed that it was possible to make it to scond.¡± I sighed frustrated and walked to the cockpit. This could not be happening. I was so excited to go to Scond with my girls.

    I knocked twice and entered. ¡°Man, what happened?!¡±

    ¡°Heavy snowstorm boss.¡± Jonathan, my personal pilot said. He was my personal pilot for four years now. He was more family now than an employee. ¡°I¡¯m afraid we cannot fly to Scond tonight. Maybe you can stay in Amsterdam for the night, because I¡¯m going to stop there to refuel the ne.¡±

    ¡°What about the next day?¡± I asked with a hint of hope in my voice. ¡°Do you think it will be possible to enter Scond.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t think so. There¡¯s heavy snowfall. I just got the message. Maybe you can stay in Amsterdam or we can return home?¡±

    I sighed and waved my hand in dismissal. ¡°No, no, we¡¯re going to South-Africa. I know a friend there who has a castle that I can rent. The whole Scond n failed.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry boss, but safety goes first.¡±

    ¡°Yeah yeah that¡¯s true. Our next stop is Eden, South Africa.¡± I grabbed my phone out of my pocket and called Harvey up. Once he told me that he owned a castle in South Africa where he stayed every Summer and Winter.

    He picked up after the third call. In the background I heard a girl¡¯s voice. ¡°What¡¯s up man?¡±

    ¡°Harvey can you do me a favor?¡±  Who are you talking to, Harvey? The high pitched voice of the female hurt my poor ears. I don¡¯t know how Harvey could have a conversation with her.

    ¡°Hurry, speak up.¡± He whispered. You¡¯re always on the phone! Female said in the background. I¡¯m sorry baby, it¡¯s just a friend. Harvey said in a soothing voice to her. ¡°I¡¯m on a date now, man.¡± he scowled at me.

    ¡°I feel sorry for you. But I really want to rent your castle in south-africa.¡±

    ¡°Of course, of course.¡± He answered. ¡°I¡¯ll make a call to the butler there, so he knows you¡¯reing. There¡¯s also a private airport there, so you can fly straight to the destination.¡±

    ¡°Thanks man, I appreciate it!¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re wee.¡± Are you talking to one of your side chicks? Ugh I¡¯m out of here! I heard the shuffling of chairs and Harvey yelling: Wait baby! And then the line went dead.

    I shook my head and put my phone back in my pocket. Guess someone is not going to getid tonight, thanks to me.

    I walked back to Jill and she immediately started firing questions at me. ¡°Is everything alright? Are we going back home?¡±

    I shook my head and sat down across her. Her hair was messy and she had put it in a messy bun on top of her head. ¡°We¡¯re going to stop in Amsterdam to refuel the ne, you can buy something to eat for Amari and then afterwards we¡¯re going to South Africa.¡±

    ¡°South Africa?! What?¡± Jill yelled out surprised. ¡°Seriously, was this already nned?¡±

    ¡°No, it was ast minute n.¡± I sighed deeply. ¡°We will go to Scond another time. When there¡¯s no snowstorm.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s okay. This is already too much. Amari only needs your time and attention, Flynn. She doesn¡¯t need expensive trips.¡± Jill said softly, her eyes scanning my face.

    ¡°What about you?¡± I asked. ¡°What do you want? This is not only about Amari. It¡¯s also about you. About us.¡±

    Jill took her eyes off me. Instead she stared out of the window. ¡°I don¡¯t want anything Flynn, I just want you to win my trust back.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m working on it. It will take time, but I can promise you this. I will never ever do something that will hurt your or Amari¡¯s feeling.¡±

    The corners of Jill¡¯s lips curled into a smile. ¡°The biggest and most priceless gift you have ever gave me is Amari.¡±

    ¡°I can give you another replica of Amari.¡± I said smirking.

    Jill scowled at me. ¡°You didn¡¯t just say that.¡±

    ¡°But I did.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not ready to be weed in the mile high club¡± She shook her head and smiled.

    We stopped in Amsterdam for two hours and spent some time walking around in the airport. Amari was jumping from joy when she finally could get out of the ne. We went to the nearest McDonalds and did some shopping in the many airport shops.

    Afterwards we went back to the ne and continued our journey to South Africa. Earlier Harvey texted me again that everything was arranged and the butler and maids were expecting us. To kill the time we yed different family games.

    I gave Jill her favorite Dfee chocte and her eyes sparkled. I knew they were her favorite.

    Finally, we arrived in South Africa, Eden. It was early in the morning and Jill and Amari just woke up from their hour long sleep. I stretched out as I walked down the stairs of the ne.

    ¡°What is this, daddy?¡± Amari stepped out of the ne and tugged on my hand. ¡°Where are we?¡±

    I lifted her up and kissed her cheeks. ¡°South-Africa, princess.¡±

    ¡°Flynn? Where are we? Is that a¡ª,¡± Jill¡¯s voice came from behind me.

    ¡°Castle.¡± I finished for her. I turned around and smiled. ¡°Yes, it is. A castle for my little princess and you, my queen.¡± I stopped to realize at what I just said. ¡°Future queen.¡± I corrected myself.

    Jill let out a loud gasp. ¡°Oh. my. god. You didn¡¯t !¡±

    ¡°I already did, pudding. Let¡¯s go have breakfast.¡± I took her hand in mine and together we walked to the entrance of the castle.

    I look at Amari who was beaming in my arms and at Jill who was walking right next to me.

    A blessing.

    That¡¯s what they were.

    Jill Malik P. O. V

    It¡¯s not hard to let Flynn back into my life. I never realized how much I still loved him until I saw him again. I love him in the way a puppy loves ¨C devoted, yful, trusting. I guess I should be ashamed of that somehow; He betrayed me once upon a time. Yet I prefer to be strong; strong enough to risk being broken all over again, to love again, full knowing my own fragility. I¡¯ve known heartbreak enough to shatter my mind, to leave my soul feeling like dust in the wind and my body unwilling to live.

    But, my love for him, is unconditional. Despite what he had done to me, I still want to forgive him and start all over again. I have so many mixed feelings about this, it¡¯s like my heart wants one thing, but my mind says something else.

    ¡°What are you thinking about?¡± Flynn nudged me from the side. He put the napkin down and waited for my answer. There was jam in the corner of his mouth.

    I just shook my head and smiled warmly. I leaned over to wipe the jam off his face. ¡°Nothing, the food is delicious. And the ce is amazing.¡±

    And that was true. The castle was beautiful and modern. It felt like a fairytale minus the talking animals and pumpkin carriages.

    ¡°Have you tried the cheesecake? It¡¯s delicious.¡± Flynn sliced a piece of cheesecake and brought it to my mouth. I haven¡¯t tried it yet, since I was still finishing the boerewors that they also served us. ¡°Here, try it! It¡¯s so good!¡±

    I took a small bite of the cheesecake and licked my lips. It tasted really good, it was like a piece of heaven. ¡°The chefs here are wonderful. Everything taste so delicious, I hope there¡¯s a gym here.¡±

    Flynnughed. ¡°Actually there isn¡¯t. You have to wait until we get back.¡± He turned towards Amari who was sitting next to him. She was eating maize pap that was prepared especially for her. I thought she wouldn¡¯t like it, but she¡¯s already on her second bowl.

    After breakfast Flynn showed us around the castle. The castle was situated in its own manicured private garden which provides direct ess to secluded Noetzie Beach. It has every conceivablefort for discerning guests including a heated rim flow pool, a thatched gazebo perched on the rocks, and huge terraces with panoramic views of the beach and ocean.

    The magnificent private residence provides the ultimate luxury with 2 living rooms with wood-burning fireces, a 10 seater dining room and 3 spacious suites with sumptuous bathrooms and magnificent views of the Noetzie Beach and Indian Ocean. There are king-size beds, walk-in wardrobes, individual climate control, ts screen TV, DVD yer and Wi-Fi Inte connectivity.

    Bathrooms have walk-in wardrobes, heated marble floors and towel rails, double vanities, separate WCs, free-standing baths and showers.

    All suites lead out through double doors onto private terraces withfortable seating and loungers to soak up the sun and the views.

    We settled in one of the masters bedroom. The view from the window was breathtakingly beautiful. The view was from the botanical garden. There was a wide range of nts such as cacti and other sulent nts, herb gardens, nts from particr parts of the world, and so on. There was also a greenhouse with special collections such as tropical nts, alpine nts, and other exotic nts.

    Amari was so eager to go for a walk in the botanical garden. One of the maids decided to take her for a walk so Flynn and I could have some ¡®adult¡¯ time together. The people in the castle were so nice and when we arrived they immediately took a liking in Amari. She was like the little princess and they would serve her everything she wants.

    When Amari left the room with the maid whose name was Agatha, the sexual tension between Flynn and I suddenly rise. I never realized how ufortable it made me when I was alone in a room with him. It was like he was a me and I was the moth that was drawn to him.

    Flynn cleared his throat after a long awkward silence. ¡°Uhm do you want to go for a walk at the beach?¡±

    I nodded my head, I loved the beach. ¡°Yes, sure.¡± I grabbed my phone and slippers and headed out with Flynn following behind me. It was a five minute walk to the beach. I knew the way, because earlier the butler showed us the stone path that would lead us straight to the beach. Even though you could see the beach from the bedroom on the other side of the hallway, it was still a little bit away from the house.

    ¡°Howe no one is here?¡± I asked as I looked around the empty beach. The ce was beautiful, I wonder where all the people are. Especially since the sun is about to set now, it¡¯s a perfect time to take pictures and have a romantic walk or pic.

    ¡°It¡¯s a private beach.¡± Flynn told me. ¡°No one cane here unless they are staying in the castle or have permission from the owner.¡±

    ¡°Oh.¡± I said. That exins why we were the only ones here. The beautiful, big blue ocean¡¯s waves are crashing against the cliffs as I watch the beautiful birds joyfully fly around in circles in the air. The warm, golden sand runs between my toes with the gentle breeze.Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.

    As I walk along, I find gorgeous, shiny shells that have been washed into the shore by the rippling of the water. Flynn watched my movements with a smile.

    I turned around scanning if we were still the only people around. The sun is about to set and I wanted to do my favorite thing. I quickly slip out of my clothes and from behind me I could feel Flynn¡¯s eyes burning in my back.

    ¡°What the hell are you doing?¡± I heard him groan from behind. I knew it took all of him to not jump on me right now. I turned around, now only in my bra and panties, and gave him a teasing smile.

 122

    ¡°Skinny dipping.¡± I said and with that I turned around, unhooked my bra and pull my panties down before dashing into the water.

    ###Chapter 28

    Jill Malik P. O. V

    ¡°Are youing? Don¡¯t stand there like a wimp.¡± I yelled at Flynn. I saw the sour look on his face. I snickered, it feels so good to torture him. I swim further into the water and I could feel Flynn¡¯s eyes burning on my back.

    ¡°Are you on your period?¡± I continued taunting him from afar. Even from here I could feel how annoyed he was.

    His lips formed into a scowl and he narrowed his eyes at me. ¡°If you want another baby, just say so !¡± he yelled at me from the shore. I rolled my eyes and stuck my tongue out at him. ¡°You can keep your hands to yourself, Vasilios. C¡¯mon the water feels so good.¡±

    ¡°Do you know how hard it is for me to stand here knowing so well that you¡¯re totally naked there? It takes all of my will power.¡±

    Poor Vasilios. But then again it feels so good to torture him.

    I never thought it would be so easy for me to let Flynn into my life again. I thought that I would y hard to get, throw tantrums, ignore him, or even worse get back at him for what he did to me. Luckily, none of that happened. It all went so smooth and I¡¯m actually d about that. I¡¯m happy that everything is behind us and that we can start fresh.

    The only thing that we both need to work on ismunication and trust. And who knows how long that will take.

    ¡°So you say that you can¡¯t resist me huh?¡± Iughed derisive as I sputtered in the water. I know I was ying with fire, but I just could not let it. And besides, I knew he would note into the water. Since I came back I saw so many changes. And the first change that I saw was that he had much more respect for me.

    If we were in this situation three years ago he would not even think twice to jump into the water. Now, however he¡¯s taking things slowly especially in situations like this. I really do put him on a test.

    ¡°I¡¯m a man, Jill. I don¡¯t think any man could resist a body like yours.¡± Flynn said as he sat down in the sand, next to my clothes and phone.

    ¡°So tell me about you being celibate. I¡¯m¡­ surprised.¡± I couldn¡¯t help, but giggle at thest part. Flynn being celibate totally caught me off guard. I could not believe it that the womanizer turned into a nun.

    Big change.

    ¡°I know right, but my hand does a pretty good job.¡±

    ¡°And when are you nning to dip your dick again in some¡­ juice?¡± I asked, raising my eyebrows. The sun was almost under and the waves were starting to get higher.

    Flynn bursted outughing. ¡°Seriously?¡± And then he turned serious. ¡°Until you let me back into your life, pudding.¡±

    ¡°What if I would nevere back Flynn? What if we are not going to be a thing anymore?¡± I wanted to hear what he has to say about that. It could happen. I¡¯m not obligated to blew new life into our rtionship that ended three years ago.

    ¡°But what If we do?¡± He asked, looking into my eyes. I could feel the chills all over my body and it was not because of the water. ¡°You need to think positive. I believe in us. I know that we will be a thing again.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re so optimistic.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m trying to fix what I broke. I want to have you in my life, pudding. I don¡¯t think I can live another year without you.¡± His voice was soft, almost pleading.

    My phone rang and Flynn looked at the Caller ID. ¡°It¡¯s Aunty Lydia.¡± He said and wanted to pick up the phone.

    ¡°Wait, no!¡± I yelled out just in time. My heart was beating so fast. ¡°I¡¯ll pick it up. Turn around so I can change.¡±

    Aunt Lydia still didn¡¯t forgive Flynn and she would flip out if she knows I¡¯m on vacation with him. Oh my god, thinking about her makes me so anxious. I don¡¯t like to keep secrets from her, I¡¯m not a teenager. And even if I was a teenager I seldom kept anything from her.

    Flynn turned around like the gentleman he was and I hurriedly put on my panties and bra and picked up the phone. ¡°Hey Tia.¡± I answered a little out of breath.

    There was a long pause followed with a loud cry. My heart immediately started racing. What the hell is happening? All kinds of scenarios were ying in my head. ¡°Tia, talk to me! What happened?!¡± I yelled out frantically. Flynn turned around and crouched down next to me. He took my hand in his and caress it softly.¡±Is everything alright?¡± He mouthed worried.

    I heard sobbing in the background and then Aunt Lydia finally spoke. ¡°Mn is in the hospital !¡±

    Jill Malik P. O. V

    One moment we were in South- Africa enjoying the beautiful sunset and the next we were back in the private jet on our way to Barcelona. My whole body was shaking and all kinds of thoughts were crossing my mind.

    Mn is in the hospital.

    Aunt Lydia didn¡¯t say anything except that he was in the hospital, which made me even more concerned. Aunt Lydia could barely talk during the phone call, the only thing I heard were loud sobbing noises. What could happen to Mn? An ident? The flu?

    I hated to stay so far away from him. I wished he could live with me like Amari. But I can¡¯t be so selfish and drag him from one country to another. He already had friends at school in Barcelona and I didn¡¯t want him to move to another country only for him to make new friends.

    And now he¡¯s sick. I hated moments like these.

    I needed more information, but I will only get that when I will arrive in Barcelona. After we boarded the private jet Flynn took Amari to the bedroom, because she was getting fuzzy. We have been traveling for so long in the ne and she¡¯s not used to that. She was enjoying the castle in South Africa and even cried when we boarded the ne again.

    ¡°Pudding, don¡¯t think about it too much. I just called the hospital, I send one of the best doctors to treat Mn.¡± Flynn snapped me out of my thoughts as he walked out of the bedroom. He wore a navy blue shirt with ck pants. I love seeing him dressed casual, it makes him so much more attractive. His muscles, sixpack, v-line. It was swoon worthy.

    ¡°Do you know what happened to him?¡± I asked averting my eyes from his sexy as sin body to his devilishly handsome face. But Flynn just shook his head. ¡°No, the doctor¡¯s on his way to the hospital. He will call me in twenty minutes or so.¡±

    I sighed deeply and rested my head on my hands. The pain in my chest didn¡¯t disappear. I just wanted to know if Mn is alright. ¡°You shouldn¡¯t have done that. The medical bill will be so high for Aunt Lydia and I.¡±

    Flynn gave me a disapproving look. He sat across me and folded his arms and stared at me. ¡°Jill, don¡¯t worry about the medical bill. I¡¯ve got it all covered. The only thing you should worry about is Mn.¡± His voice was stern, but gentle.

    ¡°Flynn, you don¡¯t have to do everything for me. I can manage it on my own.¡± I mumbled, tapping my fingers on the table.

    ¡°I know you can, pudding. But I care for Mn too. So don¡¯t worry.¡± He said softly. ¡°I haven¡¯t seen him in so long, you may not know it, but I actually missed him.¡±

    A small smile appeared on my face. I never thought that Flynn would miss Mn. I knew he cared for him like an actual father, but it just never crossed my mind that he would miss him. I thought he just liked Mn to impress me.

    ¡°Where¡¯s Amari?¡± I asked after a short silence.

    ¡°She¡¯s sleeping in the room. Princess is so tired.¡±

    ¡°I bet she is. We only have been for a couple of hours onnd. I¡¯m so sorry we couldn¡¯t stay in the castle. I really loved that ce. I hope you get your money back for it.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s nothing. ¡± Flynn said, waving his hand in dismissal. ¡°We can go back anytime we want, besides Mn is way important than our mini vacation.¡±

    ¡°True.¡±

    ¡­¡­.

    Finally we touched down in Barcelona. Amari  woke up two hours ago and watched barbie on Flynn¡¯s tablet. He couldn¡¯t get any work done and Amari even identally send a barbie video link to one of his investors through whatsapp.

    ¡°There¡¯s a ck car waiting outside to bring us to the hospital.¡± Flynn said as we made our way to the exit of the ne. ¡°Are you going to sleep at your aunt¡¯s house?¡±

    I nodded my head. ¡°Yeah, I really want to invite you over, but I¡ª,¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s okay,¡± Flynn said, he opened the door for me and motioned for me to step in. ¡°I¡¯ll stay in a hotel.¡±

    We stepped in the car and drove to the hospital. ¡°Where are we, mommy?¡± Amari asked as she pressed her nose on the car window.

    ¡°In barcelona, princess. We¡¯re going to visit Grandma Ly and Mn.¡±

    ¡°Granny and Mn?¡± She pped excitedly in her hands as she made cheering noises.

    A couple minutester we arrived at the hospital. I lifted Amari up and walked inside the hospital followed by Flynn. At the front desk Flynn asked where Mn¡¯s room was and the nurse guided us to the room. It was a private room in the second floor with all the amenities one needed. When we entered the room I heard the sound of a videogame and I immediately felt so relieved.

    He was alright.

    ¡°You¡¯re here!¡± Aunt Lydia jumped off the bed and walked towards me. She gave me a tight hug and then squatted down to pick up Amari. ¡°How¡¯s my little be doing?¡±

    Amari smiled cheekily. ¡°I want Mn.¡±

    Aunt Lydia brought her to Mn who was sitting on the bed ying a video game. He looked really pale from thest time I saw him. ¡°He got a food poisoning.¡± Aunt Lydia said. ¡°It was so bad, he had to be rushed to the hospital.¡±

    From the corner of my eyes I could see Mn hugging Amari. He was such a caring big brother. I turned towards him and caressed his thick lustrous hair. ¡°Hi mi amor.¡±

    ¡°Hey mom.¡± Mn smiled at me. ¡°I have missed you.¡±

    He was so big now. Nine years old. My big baby boy.

    ¡°I have missed you too, mi amor. As soon as I find myself a bigger house, I¡¯ll bring you over to America okay.¡±

    ¡°But you said that thest time already.¡± He pouted.

    ¡°This time it is for real.¡±

    Mn shrugged and continued ying his video game. He gave Amari a controller and my poor baby girl had no clue what to do with it.

    ¡°Talking about that,¡± Aunt Lydia ced her hands on her hips as she gave me a skeptical look. ¡°We went from a regr room to a private room. How?!¡±

    I bit my lip contemting if I should tell her the truth or not.

    And right at that moment, Flynn decided to walk in. Well, I guess there¡¯s now only one way out. The truth.

    ¡°You!¡± Aunt Lydia yelled out as she stared at Flynn with anger visible in her eyes. Flynn took a step back. ¡°Uhm¡­¡± He looked at me with a questioning look on his face. I haven¡¯t told him that aunt Lydia was mad at him.

    ¡°Tia,¡± I held her by her upper arm so she would not run to Flynn and possibly murder him. That would be so bad. Who would pay the medical bill? I shook my head. That was such a stupid thought. I really need Aunt Lydia to forgive him. Everyone deserve a second chance.

    ¡°I forgave him.¡± I answered curtly.

    She looked at me with a disapproving look on her face. ¡°You what?! Are you stupid?! I don¡¯t want to have him in this room.¡±

    She was seething from anger. Damn, how much did she actually hate his guts?

    ¡°He¡¯s actually the one paying for this room.¡± I told her, my heart stammering wildly in my chest.

    Before Aunt Lydia could say something, Mn spotted Flynn. His eyes widened in surprise and he smiled widely. ¡°Papa!¡± He squealed and jumped off the bed and ran towards Flynn.

    Mn hasn¡¯t seen Flynn since I moved to Jordan. He often asked about him, but my answer always stayed vagued. I was shocked when he called Flynn papa. Even after three years, he still remembers and loves Flynn.

    Aunt Lydia face turned red from anger and she walked out of the room without saying anything.

    My chest tightened in pain again. Now it¡¯s not about Mn, but because I couldn¡¯t stand seeing my two favorite people like this.

    Jill Malik P. O. V

    ¡°I can¡¯t believe you hija.. You brought that cheater here! You will get hurt again, you never listen!¡± Aunt Lydia paced back and forth in the living room. She was angry, her eyes were basically spitting fire. I was d that Flynn took Amari for dinner, because that gave me some time to talk with Aunt Lydia alone.

    ¡°He changed Tia. He¡¯s not like any other man that cheated.¡± I massaged my temples, because I am so tired of convincing her that Flynn changed. ¡°You should give him one more chance, please Tia. For me and for Amari.¡±

    Aunt Lydia let out a deep sigh and sat down next to me. ¡°The things I do for you hija. I will do what makes you happy, because I know that¡¯s what your parents want. You to be happy. If you¡¯re happy with Flynn, then I cannot keep you away from him.¡±

    ¡°Thank you Tia. Gracias!¡± I hugged her tightly and hot tears rolled down my cheeks. The happiness I felt deep inside me was indescribable. ¡°I¡¯m so happy that you forgive him. You have no idea how relieved and happy I am now.¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s a good father for Amari.¡±

    I let go of Aunt Lydia and nodded my head. ¡°He¡¯s an amazing father for her. I should have known by the way he treated Mn. He loves kids.¡±

    A small smile appeared on Aunt lydia¡¯s face. ¡°That¡¯s the one thing I like about him. The way he treated Mn. He was too good.¡± She paused and continued, ¡°But, if he¡¯s going to hurt you again I will not hesitate to chop his balls off. I swear Jill, this time I will do it!¡±

    I calmed Aunt Lydia down and chuckled. ¡°It¡¯s okay, don¡¯t worry. It will not happen again.¡±

    ¡°He better not let it happen again.¡± She treated and stood up from the couch. ¡°I¡¯m going to prepare dinner. Is heing over to eat.¡±

    ¡°No, he and Amari went out for dinner.¡±

    She nodded and walked to the kitchen. I stayed behind in the living room to call Flynn up.

    ¡°Hey¡­ it¡¯s mommy, Amari.¡± I heard him say. ¡°Hey, whats up?¡±

    ¡°Everything is settled. You cane bring Amari now.¡±

    There was a short pause when I heard his voice ask, ¡°Is she still mad at me?¡±

    ¡°No,¡± I answered. ¡°She forgave you, actually.¡±

    ¡°Really?!¡± I heard the relief and excitement in his voice. ¡°Damn, I¡¯m so d! I think I should buy her a trip to an exotic ind. What do you think of Bora Bora or Maldives¡­ Or no, no Santorini is beautiful¡ª,¡±

    ¡°Flynn!¡± I cut him off. ¡°Jesus, why do you want to buy a trip for her? Are you out of your mind?¡±

    ¡°Am I out of my mind?¡± he repeated, ¡°Of course not! Your aunt forgive me. Do you know how happy I am right now? I don¡¯t know what I would do if she would not forgive me. I know how important she is to you. So yeah, what do you think pudding? Santorini, Bora Bora, or wait.. wait..- Bali, that¡¯s a pretty ¡ª,¡±

    ¡°Miguelitos.¡± I interrupted him.

    There was a short silence and then Flynn spoke again,¡±Is that a new Ind, because I have never heard of it before.¡±

    I bursted outughing. ¡°No, it¡¯s a pastry. Aunt Lydia loves it a lot. If you want to buy her something buy her a box full of Miguelitos and not a ticket to an expensive Ind.¡±

    ¡°But, I want to spoil her.¡± Flynn whined on the other side of the line.

    ¡°You¡¯ll have your entire life to spoil her.¡±

    There was a long silence and I thought he ended the call. ¡°Hello?¡±

    ¡°Did you hear what you said?¡± Flynn asked, ¡°Jesus, Do you mean it?¡±

    ¡°I know what I said and yes I mean it. If I was not serious of getting us back together, do you think I would let Tia forgive you?¡±

    ¡°Right, of course. What does she like again? Mamamitos?¡±

    ¡°Miguelitos.¡±

    ¡°Oh okay, got it.¡±

    ¡°Where¡¯s Amari?¡± I asked, I haven¡¯t heard her voice. ¡°What did you guys had for dinner?¡±

    ¡°She¡¯s ying in the game arcade. We had burger and chicken wings.¡±

    ¡°So unhealthy.¡±

    ¡°Come on, mommy.¡± Flynn mimicked Amari¡¯s voice. ¡°This time only¡­¡± And then he went back to his normal voice and whispered. ¡°The woman next to me looks at me like I¡¯m crazy.¡±

    I chuckled and said, ¡°Anyways, I will see you twoter.¡±

    ¡°Bye, pudding. I miss you so much.¡±

    I rolled my eyes and shook my head. ¡°Bye.¡±

    ¡­¡­.

    ###Chapter 29

    ¡°I made pae enough for a whole ser team. I hope you¡¯re hungry.¡± Aunt Lydia said as I walked in the kitchen.

    ¡°Wow.¡± My eyes widened at the amount of Pae on the dinner table. ¡°If you had told me that you would make so much food, I could have told Flynn not to buy dinner.¡±

    ¡°Well, at that time I was not sure If I would forgive him,¡± Aunt Lydia said as she ced two tes on the table. ¡°C¡¯mon dig in, I¡¯m hungry. I have been in the hospital the whole day.¡±

    Mn was currently still in the hospital. His favorite nurse came in the room and told us that we could go home and have a good night¡¯s sleep. After all it was his job to watch over Mn. But Flynn protested and said that he wants to spend the night with Mn.

    The nurse then told him toe back at nine pm, because that¡¯s the time parents cane back to spend the night with their kid.

    After we ate the delicious pae, Aunt Lydia cleaned up the table and I put the leftovers in stic containers. ¡°I¡¯ll put pae for Mn, in case he gets hungry tonight.¡± I said as I was about to scoop some pae for Mn.

    Aunt Lydia shook her head. ¡°He¡¯s not allowed to have food from outside. For now, he can only eat hospital food.¡±

    ¡°Oh.¡± I said.

    When we were almost done cleaning the kitchen, there was a soft knock on the front door. ¡°Must be Flynn.¡± I wiped my hands on the kitchen towel and walked to the front door. When I opened the door an exciting Amari jumped on me.Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.

 123

    ¡°Mommy!!¡± She squealed. I lifted her up and kissed her cheek. ¡°Mommy, mommy, I went on a slide and then.. and then we ate burgers¡­ and then we had tiramisu.. and then¡ª-,¡±

    Flynn chuckled from behind her. ¡°I think mommy heard enough, princess. Hey pudding.¡± Flynn walked towards me and ced a kiss on my forehead. ¡°I have missed you.¡±

    ¡°You saw me three hours ago, Vasilios.¡± I chuckled as I closed the door behind him.

    ¡°That was enough to miss you.¡± He stated. ¡°Where¡¯s your aunt? I brought her the Mamacitas.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s Miguelitos.¡± Iughed and showed him the way to the kitchen. Aunt Lydia stood there with a wide smile on her face. ¡°Amari, mi preciosa.¡±

    I put Amari down and she ran towards Aunt Lydia. Herugh echoed through the whole house. My little baby angel.

    Aunt Lydia then looked at Flynn. She cleared her throat and gave him a small smile. ¡°Wee back, Flynn.¡±

    He walked towards her and took her into a big hug. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry I hurt Jill, It will never happen again.¡±

    ¡°The past is the past. Let¡¯s not go back there.¡± Aunt Lydia soothing voice said. ¡°Be happy that I forgive you and not want to strangle you anymore.¡±

    Flynn¡¯s eyes widened in fear. ¡°Well, I think I¡¯m happy that you don¡¯t want to strangle me anymore.¡± He chuckled. ¡°Anyways, I brought you your favorite pastries. Margaritas!¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Miguelitos, Vasilios! Miguelitos!¡± I corrected him as Iughed out loud.

    Jill Malik P. O. V

    Today was Mn¡¯sst day in the hospital. I was so happy he could finally go home. Flynn had promised him that when he got better, he would bring him to Disney Land Paris. They kept it a secret for a long time, until yesterday when Mn got too excited and spilled it.

    After Disnend and Paris rolled out of Mn¡¯s mouth I red at Flynn. Damn, I was mad. He¡¯s spoiling the boy rotten. But for how long could I stay mad at my boys? Instead I smiled kindly at Mn and ruffled his hair. ¡°Are you excited, mi amor?¡±

    He nodded his head eagerly. ¡°But I want to live with you mommy and with pearl and papa.¡± When he said that my chest tightened. I had promised him I would bring him to the states. Flynn looked over at me and then smiled back at Mn. I was speechless, I didn¡¯t know what to say. I knew how much Mn missed me, every time we were on the phone he asked me about how life is over there. He¡¯s getting older and knows a lot more than when he was six.

    ¡°We will bring you to New York very soon. But first, you need to recover and finish middle school here.¡± Flynn said and pinched Mn in his cheeks. ¡°You¡¯ll start high school in the states. Are you excited?¡±

    ¡°Then I¡¯m here all alone.¡± Aunt Lydia pouted. She sat in the corner of the room ying with Amari. Amari was so excited to see her, they haven¡¯t seen each other sincest year christmas. Aunt Lydia spoiled Amari with sweets. Right now they were eating chocte cupcakes in the corner of the room, thinking that I haven¡¯t noticed.

    ¡°You can move to the states too. There will be plenty of space in my new house.¡± I say genuinely to Aunt Lydia.

    ¡°You will buy a new house?!¡± Aunt Lydia and Flynn eximed both in surprise.

    ¡°Of course,¡± I said. ¡°My job is paying really well, I think I can buy a house in one or two years.¡±

    Flynn walked towards me and caressed my cheeks. ¡°Pudding, you know I can do it in one phone call. Do you already know what type of house you want?¡±

    I shook my head. ¡°Thank you, but no. My new house will be a treat to myself.¡±

    ¡°But you will be living in my house.¡± Flynn said.

    I rose my eyebrows up at him. ¡°Excuse me ?¡±

    Flynn cleared his throat. ¡°I¡¯m moving to fast, aren¡¯t I?¡±

    I chuckled. ¡°Yeah, but for your information I want to buy a house. I don¡¯t care if it¡¯s for vacation or only for the weekend. Buying a house is one of the things I want to get off my bucket list.¡±

    ¡°You have a bucket list?¡± He asked in surprise.

    ¡°Yeah I actually do.¡±

    ¡°What are the things that still need to get crossed off the bucket list?¡±

    ¡°Mmhh.¡± I thought about it for a while. I already graduated, have a job, two beautiful kids.. Mmh, family and house still needs to get crossed off. But I¡¯m pretty sure with Familyes Flynn and I already made ns to buy a house. Then the only thing that needs to get crossed off is a tropical wedding and a vacation to St. Lucia. Oh my god, St. Lucia is my dream vacation.

    ¡°I think that a tropical wedding and a vacation to St. Lucia still needs to get crossed off. I want to go to St. Lucia probably like next year or so when I get my promotion.¡±

    ¡°Interesting.¡± Flynn kissed my forehead and then looked at his watch. ¡°I need to go meet an investor. Can I take you out for dinner tonight?¡±

    ¡°Aren¡¯t you on vacation right now?¡±

    He let out a deep sigh and nodded. ¡°Actually our meeting was scheduled in two weeks in the Philippines. But since he¡¯s here I decided to meet up with him so I don¡¯t need to travel so far.¡±

    ¡°Oh well, I¡¯ll see you tonight then. What time?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll pick you up at eight.¡±

    I nodded and he gave me a quick peck on my lips.

    Suddenly I remembered Disnend. ¡°When are we going to Disney?¡± I asked.

    ¡°Tomorrow.¡±

    I watched Flynn walking out of the hospital room. Then I turned my attention to Amari and Aunt Lydia. ¡°If you two think I haven¡¯t noticed the cupcakes, then you are so wrong.¡±

    ¡°Crap! We have been caught Amari!¡±

    ¡­¡­.

    ¡°Mommy, where are you going?¡± Amari waddled into my room. She wore a pink fluffy pajama and right now she looked just like boo.

    ¡°I¡¯m going out with daddy, princess.¡± I said as I applied mascara on myshes. Amari had long fullshes. She got it from Flynn. I would be lying If I said that I¡¯m not jealous of them.

    ¡°I wanna go to mommy.¡±

    ¡°No, princess. You¡¯ll stay home with Mn and eat pancakes with strawberries and whip cream.¡± I kissed the tip of her nose and she nuzzled her head in my chest. ¡°I wanna go to daddy.¡± she murmured. She¡¯s such a daddy girl. But then again, daddy was the one who spoiled her.

    ¡°Daddy can¡¯t spend time with mommy?¡± I asked as I fake pouted my lips at her.

    ¡°No, daddy is my daddy.¡± she said and hopped off myp and walked out of my room. Well, I don¡¯t mind her stealing my man from me.

    ¡°Flynn¡¯s here!¡± Aunt Lydia yelled from the living room. I hurriedly grabbed my clutch and slipped on my heels and walked out of the room. I¡¯m curious where he¡¯s going to take me.

    When I walked into the living room Amari and Mn were both surrounding him. ¡°What did daddy bring for you?¡± I asked as I saw them with paper bags.

    ¡°Candy!¡± they both yelled out.

    I looked at Flynn and he gave me an apologetic smile. He knows that candy is not allowed at night. ¡°Mommmyyy!¡± he said imitating Amari when she needs something. ¡°It¡¯s only this time.¡±ConTEent bel0ngs to N?v(e)lD/rama(.)Org .

    ¡°You are spoiling them.¡± I said as I walked over to him. I ced my head on his chest and the fresh smell of aftershave entered my nostrils. His big arms held me firmly against his body. ¡°I missed you.¡± He whispered and a small smile appeared on my face. ¡°I missed you too.¡± I whispered back.

    I turned around and Aunt Lydia was sitting with Mn and Amari on the couch opening the paper bags with candies.

    ¡°Tia, are you going to be alright with those two? Are you sure I should not call a babysitter to help you?¡± I asked.

    Aunt Lydia gave me a disapproving look. ¡°Silly girl, of course not. I can handle these two just fine. You two go have fun.¡±

    ¡°Thank you, Tia. Behave yourself kids.¡± I said before we headed out.

    When we were outside I turned towards Flynn who was holding the car door open for me. ¡°Where are we going?¡±

    He gave me a mysterious smile and said, ¡°We are going to have tapas.¡±

    Flynn Vasilios P. O. V

    I don¡¯t like tapas. Maybe not all of them, but the ones I already tried. Those were horrible. The cheese and olives. I just find it disgusting.

    But I know how much Jill loves tapas. Thest time we were in Spain we went to the ca de Catalunya and I remembered how much she enjoyed it. She was glowing and she had so much fun. Even though I couldn¡¯t stand the crowd and the pizza, her happy face was all that mattered.

    I love her. A lot.

    ¡°Where are we going?¡± Jill asked. She sat next to me looking like a goddamn goddess. Someone like her deserves more than what I can give her. She deserves the finest treatment. I shouldn¡¯t bring her to go eat tapas, but instead dine with her in Al Dawaar, one of the finest restaurants in Dubai. The restaurant is amazing and the quality of the food is so great. A million times better than tapas.

    But Jill would feel very ufortable. I know my girl. She likes the simple things. Yes, she loves to go out sometimes and dine in a fine restaurant, do some shopping in Gi and Louis Vuitton, and pamper herself with jewelry from Tiffany¡¯s, but most of the time she enjoys the simple things.

    A pic, a movie night, a date at McDonalds. She loves it. It¡¯s the little things that makes such a big difference.

    So, for tonight I nned out the perfect date for us. First we¡¯re going to Cerveceria Catna to get some tapas. I can¡¯t let my princess starve, can I? Girls need to eat before you bring them out and about, because otherwise they will be moody. Read that somewhere on google. After having tapas we will go to visit Casa M. And we will end the night by visiting the Magic Fountain of Montjuic.

    ¡°First things first.¡± I parked the car and Jill looked outside. The ce must be familiar to her, because a small smile appeared on her face. I saw the little spark in her eyes and that¡¯s when I realized that I brought her to the right ce. Screw Al Dawaar, if this ce makes my girl happy, who cares about a first ss restaurant?

 124

    ¡°Tapas.¡± She said happily and turned to look at me, ¡°How did you know about this ce? The tapas here are delicious.¡±

    ¡°Google, pudding.¡± I grinned. ¡°Google.¡±

    ¡°Oh em gee! C¡¯mon let¡¯s go. I really want you to try all the different tapas they have here. Have you ever had Cmares?,¡±

    I shook my head. C-what?! What the hell are those? ¡°Is it like a drink? Pepsi?¡±

    Jillughed out loud. ¡°No, not even close. But I promise you they are so good. You should really try it.¡±

    The way sheughed, the way she talked. I never realized how much I missed this until now. I have missed her voice and presence. ¡°You look beautiful.¡± I blurted out.

    ¡°Thank you, Vasilios.¡± She answered, smiling. ¡°You look handsome yourself.¡±

    I stepped out of the car and walked to her side to open the door. ¡°Mydy.¡± I said, stretching my hand out at her. Jill smiled at me and ced her hand in mine. She better do to, because I¡¯m positive all the men inside will be gawking at her. But what can I say? She¡¯s beautiful.

    ¡°So,¡± I said when we entered the restaurant,¡±What do you want?¡±

    ¡°A cmares. Two cmares.¡±

    ¡°What is a cmate-what?¡± I asked, confused. I know everything about finance, business, and trade, but don¡¯t ask me about food. Especially foreign food. I¡¯m not an expert in that.

    ¡°Cmares,¡± Jillughed, ¡°It¡¯s fried squid rings. Oh, oh and you should also try the patatas bravas, steamed prawns, and the beef tenderloin. I have heard the beef tenderloin is so delicious.¡±

    We sat down at the nearby table and I went to order the food. When I came back Jill was looking at her surroundings.

    The ce was crowded. I didn¡¯t expect anything less, because the reviews about this ce were insane. Everyone loved it. The food, the people, the ambiance. It¡¯s an amazing ce.

    ¡°So, are you enjoying it so far? I¡¯m sorry this whole trip didn¡¯t go as nned.¡±Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!

    Jill turned her attention back at me. ¡°Are you crazy? This is probably like the first time in forever I feel so happy. To finally see Mn and Aunt Lydia¡­ And of course you meeting Amari. I have never felt better.¡±

    ¡°I can say the same. You have no idea how happy I am to sit here with you. I thought I would never see this day anymore.¡± I ced my hand on Jill¡¯s. She didn¡¯t pull away, thank god. ¡°You have no clue how much I have missed you, pudding.¡±

    ¡°I know exactly what you¡¯re talking about.¡± She said softly. ¡°I have missed you too¡­ A lot.¡±

    I look up at her pretty face. Plump lips and beautiful eyes. That small smile that was ying on her lips. And that¡¯s when I realized that I lost myself in her. All mistakes I have ever made, and there have been many, are gone. I know her eyes can see through me, I know she can see how sorry I am. How much I regret everything I have done to her in the past. I know that I do not deserve her, but screw it ! She¡¯s the greatest treasure of my life, the one, and the only one. Nothing is going to change that.

    To me Jill is the world itself and without her I cannot enjoy a simple flower or the rising sun. I have realized that in the past few years when I thought that I had lost her forever.

    But here she is again. Sitting right in front of me. Looking like an angel. Gosh, you have no idea how much I love this woman.

    ¡°Vasilios, are you alright?¡± Jill pinched my hand. ¡°You¡¯re so deep in thought.¡±

    ¡°You have no idea.¡± I mumbled softly.

    ¡°I have no idea what?¡± Jill asked confused. She looked so cute when she was confused.

    Right at that moment our food came. The delicious smell of all the dishes entered my nostrils. Mmmh, after this I definitely should hit the gym. Not only did it smell good, but it also looked good.

    Jill fed me cmares. It was good. Delicious even.

    Most of the dishes were really tasty and I enjoyed all of them. I do actually like tapas, I just didn¡¯t like the pizza I had thest time. That was disgusting.

    After we had dinner we visited Casa M where had to take a thousand selfies. She looked so good in all of them, but she wanted to retake it twenty times again just because she wanted to have choices.

    I don¡¯t understand girls.

    Casa M was beautiful at night. Jill told me that she came here with Aunt Lydia when she was little. It was boring then she told me, but now that she¡¯s older she could stay hours here.

    After we were done admiring Casa M we went to the the Magic Fountain of Montjuic to end the night. Tomorrow we had an early ne to catch to Paris.

    The magic fountain was indeed magical.

    ¡°Have you been here before?¡± I asked Jill.

    She shook her head. ¡°No, never.¡± She stayed silent for a while, all her attention on the fountain. ¡°It is so beautiful.¡± She whispered.

    I wrapped my arms around her waist and pulled her closer to me. I inhaled the scent of strawberry shampoo. The one that she always uses. It¡¯s called Suave. Her favorite.

    ¡°Just like you, pudding.¡± I whispered back in her ear. ¡°It¡¯s beautiful, just like you.¡±

    Jill Malik P. O. V

    ¡°Do you want wine Tia?¡± I asked as the flight attendant served us nuts, chocte, juice, and wine. We were currently on our flight to Paris. Fun fact, it will be Amari¡¯s third birthday in three days.

    Aunt Lydia nodded her head at my question. She is so at ease, leaning casually backwards on thefortable leather seat of Flynn¡¯s private jet. ¡°Yes, please. Your private jet is very luxurious, Flynn.¡±

    ¡°Yes, this is one of the most expensive ones. Do you like it?¡± Flynn asked as he gave Mn his tablet to watch youtube videos. Amari was sitting on hisp and yed with a puzzle.

    ¡°I love it, it¡¯s veryfortable.¡± Aunt Lydia took a sip of her wine and closed her eyes enjoying the taste.

    Flynn became silent after that and I knew immediately what he was thinking about. I just know him so well. ¡°Don¡¯t even think about it, Vasilios.¡±

    He looked at me questionably. ¡°What?¡± he asked innocently.

    ¡°I know exactly what you¡¯re thinking about and the answer is no.¡± I said firmly.

    ¡°But I just want to¡ª,¡±

    ¡°Vasilios, you¡¯re not buying an private jet for Tia.¡± I let out a exasperated sigh. ¡°You just don¡¯t.¡±

    ¡°What?¡± Who¡¯s going to buy a private jet for me?¡± Aunt Lydia snapped her eyes open and looked at both of us.

    ¡°No, it¡¯s just¡ª I know what Flynn is thinking and I know he¡¯s making arrangements in his head about buying you a private jet.¡± I rified to her.

    ¡°Don¡¯t spoil the surprise, pudding.¡± He wailed.

    ¡°No, no¡­ Vasilios, can you be normal for a day?¡±

    He sighed at my question. ¡°No private jet then.¡±

    The flight attendant came back with more juice and chips.

    ¡°I don¡¯t want a private jet either. You know what I do want Flynn?¡± Aunt Lydia asked, sipping her wine. She looked at Flynn from over her ss.

    ¡°Tiaa¡ª,¡± I groaned. Flynn is not a bank I wanted to say.

    ¡°I want¡­,¡± Aunt Lydia paused for a second. ¡°I want you to treat Jill the way she deserves to be treated and to be a good father to Amari.¡±

    ¡°And Mn.¡± Flynn added and smiled. ¡°I will Tia, it¡¯s a promise.¡±

    She nodded her head and smiled contently. ¡°Good and if you break that promise, I know where you live rich boy.¡±

    ¡°Tia!,¡± I facepalmed myself. She did not just call Flynn rich boy.

    ¡°What?,¡± She asked innocently.

    We arrived in Paris and a cousin of Flynn came to fetch us at the airport.

    ¡°Mommy, I want cake.¡±

    Amari tugged on my dress and pouted her lips. ¡°We are at the airport, princess. They don¡¯t sell cake here.¡± I told her as I lifted her up. ¡°Come on, we are in Paris. Aren¡¯t you happy?¡±

    ¡°I want cake.¡±

    Flynn turned around and raised his eyebrows. ¡°What happened?¡± He help with carrying our bags to the car that was waiting for us.

    ¡°She wants cake.¡± I said sighing.

    ¡°Did I hear cake?¡± The voice of Roger, Flynn¡¯s cousin, came from behind me. He had two bags in his hand. ¡°Zhoya made plenty of cakes today.¡± He said smiling.

    ¡°Your wife is a baker?¡± I asked surprised.

    Heughed and shook his head. ¡°Oh no, even though I have told her numerous times to open her own shop. Today is one of the days she has that baking spirit you know. And let me tell you, they are delicious.¡±

    ¡°Have you heard that, princess?¡± I cuddled Amari. ¡°Aunty Zhoya made plenty of cake. Are you happy now?¡±

    Flynn opened the door of the Rolls Royce for us. ¡°Mommy,¡± Mn squealed. ¡°The car has stars on the ceiling. That¡¯s so cool.¡±

    I chuckled. ¡°Really?¡±

    He nodded his head wildly. ¡°Yes, it¡¯s so cool. Dad, why don¡¯t you have a car like this?¡±

    ¡°Do you want something like this?¡± Flynn asked as he sat in the passenger seat. ¡°I¡¯ll buy you one for your next birthday.¡±

    I cleared my throat loudly. ¡°I hope you mean a toy Rolls Royce.¡±

    ¡°Mom, I want a real one.¡± Mn said.

    ¡°For that, you are still too young. You are not even allowed to drive yet.¡±

    ¡°Then I will assign a driver for him.¡± Flynn said in a matter-of-fact.

    ¡°Flynn!¡±

 125

    Roger¡¯s mansion was amazingly stunning. It had a ground-floor entrance hall that had ess to the magnificent living room and a dining room opening onto the garden. Thendscaped garden directly overlooks the Champ de Mars andmands panoramic views of the Eiffel Tower and les Invalides.

    ¡°Zhoya, darling. I brought guests.¡± Roger¡¯s voice boomed through the whole mansion. We walked through the beautiful hallway and ended up in a equipped kitchen with dining facilities.

    Roger walked up to his wife who was wearing a purple apron. ¡°It smells good in here darling.¡±

    ¡°Hello,¡± Zhoya greeted us. She wiped her hands on her apron. ¡°I¡¯m sorry I can¡¯t hug you guys. My fingers are still sticky with flour. I¡¯m not done baking yet¡± She smiled apologetically at us.

    ¡°Mommy, I wanna cake.¡±

    ¡°Amari.¡± I said sternly. ¡°Go greet aunty Zhoya first. ¡±

    ¡°Hi Aunty Zhoya.¡± Amari greeted shyly.

    ¡°Hello sweetheart. Do you want to have a slice chocte cake or pumpkin spice?¡±

    ¡°Chocte!¡±

    ¡°Good choice,¡± Zhoyaughed as she sliced a piece of cake for Amari.

    ¡°What do you say Amari?¡± I said as Zhoya handed her the cake on a te.

    ¡°Thank you, aunty Zhoya.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re wee, sweet heart.¡±

    Roger showed us our rooms. ¡°I hope you will have a pleasant stay here. I¡¯m just so excited that he finally decided to stay over at mine.¡± Roger patted Flynn¡¯s back. ¡°No more hotels, cousin.¡±

    Flynn chuckled. ¡°I should have taken your advice from the beginning.¡±

    After Roger left, Aunt Lydia opened her room and let out a loud gasp. ¡°This is so fancy.¡± She said in a hush tone. ¡°I feel like Kris Jenner.¡±

    Iughed and helped her bring her stuff inside. ¡°Get use to thisvish lifestyle, Tia.¡±

    ¡°I should say that to you, hija.¡± Aunt Lydia closed the door behind her. ¡°Are you happy?¡±

    I gave her a weird look. ¡°What do you mean?¡± Iughed. ¡°Of course I¡¯m happy.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t mean that. I mean are you happy with this life?¡±

    ¡°I am, Tia. With or without Flynn, we would still lead a very luxurious life.¡±

    ¡°Your parents would be so proud of you.¡± Aunt Lydia smiled. ¡°Anyways, I will freshen up, I think you should too. Are you going to sleep in Flynn¡¯s room?¡±

    ¡°I guess so. My stuff isn¡¯t here.¡±

    ¡°Well then, I¡¯ll see youter.¡± Aunt Lydia let me out and I walked to Flynn¡¯s room that was across hers.

    I opened the door and Flynn was busy unpacking his stuff. ¡°Where are the kids?¡± I asked as the room was so quiet.

    ¡°They are in their own room.¡±

    ¡°What?¡± I asked astonished. They have their own room.

    ¡°Come on, pudding.¡± Flynnughed. ¡°They cannot sleep with us. Besides we need some mommy and daddy time.¡±

    ¡°Of course. Whatever you say Vasilios.¡±

    He grinned and walked over towards me. He grabbed my waist and pulled me closer to him. ¡°My sweet pudding.¡± He murmured, his mouth close to my lips. I could feel his hot minty breath fanning my face.

    He ced a soft and gentle kiss on my lips. It totally caught me off guard.

    ¡°I love you.¡± He whispered.

    Jill Malik P. O. V

    ¡°I hate you!¡±

    Flynn tried to grab the tablet out of my hand, but it was already toote. Order cancelled.

    ¡°Pudding!¡± he cried out as he tapped furiously on the screen. ¡°What did you do? You were not even supposed to know.¡±

    ¡°I told you already. Amari is turning three not twenty three. You cannot buy a diamond ne for her that cost over five million. Normal fathers don¡¯t do that.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not a normal father.¡± Flynn put the tablet back on the nightstand and turn around to face me. ¡°I¡¯m a cool father.¡±

    ¡°Yeah right.¡± I muttered.

    ¡°She could have use it forter you know. It could have been an investment. She would own one of the most expensive nes and when she goes to kindergarten she can brag about it, oh and she can also say that Jessica Alba wore that ne to the golden globes.¡±

    ¡°Really, Flynn?¡± I stared at him, shaking my head. ¡°Those kids only care about toys. No one would be interested in a ne¡ª,¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not just a ne.¡± Flynn interrupted me. ¡°It¡¯s a $5. 8 million ne.¡±

    ¡°Well they wouldn¡¯t care either. And they wouldn¡¯t even care about Jessica Alba.¡±

    ¡°Then what do you suggest me to give her, mommy?¡± Flynn asked emphasizing thest word.

    ¡°Well, an intable castle, toys¡­ I don¡¯t know, but something for a three year old.¡±

    ¡°A bentley.¡±

    I red at Flynn and heughed out loud. ¡°I¡¯m kidding. I will buy a grand victorian mansion for her.¡±

    ¡°A what?!¡±

    ¡°Chill, pudding. It¡¯s a yhouse. It will be in the garden. Amari will love it.¡± Flynn said, stroking my bare upper arm.

    ¡°I don¡¯t have a garden.¡±

    ¡°In my garden of course, I mean you will live with me eventually.¡±

    ¡°Flynn.¡± I grunted and stood up from the bed. ¡°I¡¯ll take a shower.¡±

    ¡°Are you mad?¡± He asked. ¡°I was just stating the obvious.¡±

    I rolled my eyes and opened the door to the bathroom. ¡°I¡¯m not mad. Just be a normal father.¡±

    ¡°I am a cool father, normal is boring!¡± I heard him yell out.

    ¡­¡­.Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!

    ¡°Breakfast was delicious. Thank you Zhoya.¡± I said as I helped her clean the table.

    ¡°Oh it was nothing, I feel so happy that you guys are finally here. I could not make it to Ximena¡¯s wedding.¡± she said, putting the dirty dishes in the dishwasher.

    For breakfast we had croissant filled with chocte, tartes, and some sort of buttery pastry with icing sugar. Zhoya made all of it. She was a real kitchen princess.

    And of course Amari had to have a piece of red velvet cake that Zhoya made yesterday.

    ¡°You can leave the cups there. The maid willeter on today and she will do the rest. Let¡¯s go change before we keep the others waiting.¡± Zhoya said as she dried her hands on her apron.

    I nodded and went back upstairs. The others were in the living room ying a game. Flynn dressed both Amari and Mn while I was busy in the kitchen with Zhoya. I¡¯m really curious to see if he did a great job.

    I had already put my dress on the bed. It was a simple blue dress with flower embroidery that reached right above my knee. The perfect outfit for a day at disnend.

    When I came back downstairs everyone was already waiting even Zhoya. ¡°Are you guys ready to go?¡± Roger asked.

    We all nodded our heads and headed outside where the car was waiting for us.

    We drove to disnend and the closer we got the more exciting Mn and Amari got. They actually look pretty good. Flynn did a great job at dressing them up even though Aunt Lydia had to help him here and there.

    ¡°We¡¯re going to have so much fun pearl.¡± Mn said excitedly as he smiled at his baby sister. Amari nodded her head eagerly, her ponytail swinging from left to right, hitting the side of Flynn¡¯s face.

    ¡°I wanna see ddin.¡± Amari said, ¡°Do you wanna see ddin?¡±

    ¡°But ddin is boring.¡± Mn pouted. ¡°Right dad, it¡¯s boring right?¡±

    ¡°ddin is not boring.¡± Amari said, her voice raising a little. My feisty little girl. I chuckled.

    ¡°Peter Pan is better. I love Peter Pan.¡±

    ¡°No!,¡± Amari yelled, ¡°Wendy is not nice.¡±

    ¡°What do you mean, pearl? Have you ever seen the movie?¡±

    ¡°Okay, okay¡­ We will visit both okay?¡± Flynn said in a soothing voice.

    ¡°I want cake too.¡±

    That was Amari asking.

    ¡°You already ate so much cake, babygirl. It¡¯s not good.¡± I said caressing her chubby cheeks. She gave me the puppy dog eyes. ¡°Mommy..!¡±

    ¡°No, Amari. You will not have anymore cake. Tomorrow it¡¯s your birthday then you can have all the cake you want.¡±

    Her eyes lit up and she smiled widely at me. ¡°Cake, cake, cake!¡±

    Aunt Lydia sat next to me,ughing at Amari¡¯s facial expression and happiness. ¡°Such a bundle of joy.¡± She muttered softly.

    ¡­¡­.

    ###Chapter 30

    ¡°I¡¯m hungry, mommy.¡± Mn whined after we exited the Peter Pan attraction.

    ¡°I know a good spot to eat. Let¡¯s go to Ate¡¯s Dinner, they serve the most delicious burgers and milkshakes.¡± Zhoya said.

    We went to Ate¡¯s Dinner, it was such a beautiful ce. The kids felt so at ease and it wasn¡¯t so crowded, so we could eat and talk in peace.

    ¡°Was it fun today?¡± I asked Amari and Mn as they took a sip of their milkshake.

    ¡°Yes.¡± they both yelled out in unison.

    ¡°I love candy cotton.¡± Amari said happily.

    ¡°Cotton candy.¡± I corrected her. ¡°What about you Mn?¡±

    ¡°Peter Pan was so fun¡­ And oh when I saw Mickey. He¡¯s even better in real life mom.¡± Mn¡¯s eyes sparkled from excitement as he said that.

    ¡°I like the ice cream.¡± Flynn said and Roger nodded his head at that. ¡°Yes, the ice cream was so good. It was worth the wait.¡±

    The line for ice cream was so long, they had to wait thirty minutes. Luckily in the end it all paid off.

    We talked a little more and then we were ready to go home. It was such a fun day at disnend. We all had a good time and I got to know Zhoya and Roger better.

    When we arrived home, Mn and Amari showered, and then they could watch a movie before going to bed. It took fifteen minutes to choose a movie. Moana it was.

    Flynn and I sat on the balcony in our room gazing at the stars and the moon. It was a beautiful night.

    ¡°Did you had fun today?¡± Flynn asked, sitting down next to me.

    ¡°A lot of fun.¡±

    ¡°Mmh, me too.¡± He said. We stayed silent for awhile until he let out a deep tiring sigh.

    ¡°What?¡± I asked as I studied his expressionless face.

    ¡°You¡¯re here.¡± He whispered softly.

    ¡°Huh? What?¡± I was confused.

    ¡°I said you¡¯re here.¡± he repeated.

    ¡°Yes, I am.¡± I furrowed my brows in confusion.

    ¡°I still can¡¯t believe it.¡±

    ¡°Well¡ª-,¡± I didn¡¯t know what to say. The only thing I could do was stare at him, waiting, until he says something else.

    ¡°I¨C You have no idea how much I missed you. How sorry I am. Like, you just have no idea.¡±

    ¡°Of course I do.¡± I said, ¡°Flynn, I think mine was even worse. I cried for days. I couldn¡¯t get over you. Like ever.¡±

    ¡°No you don¡¯t pudding. You don¡¯t. Do you have the feeling that even though the person is next to you, you are still afraid. Because I do. I¡¯m afraid that I¡¯ll lose you again and that you¡¯ll nevere back. I always think about the what if¡¯s. What if you would nevere back? I would probably go insane.¡±

    I stayed silent for awhile and sighed deeply. ¡°I¡¯m here to stay, Vasilios. And I know what you feel. I know exactly what you feel. Come here.¡±

    I opened my arms and hugged him tightly.

    ¡°Please stay forever.¡± He mumbled softly.

    ¡°As long as you don¡¯t do stupid stuff.¡±

    ¡°Does buying a High top sneaker for Amari count as stupid?¡± He asked, still hugging me.

    ¡°Tell me it¡¯s not the Giuseppe one. Those cost almost five hundred bucks.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s the one.¡±

    ¡°Vasilios!¡±

 126

    Jill Malik P. O. V

    ¡°Happy birthday, Amari!¡±

    I can¡¯t believe that my baby girl is three years old today. She¡¯s growing up so fast.

    She looked so beautiful in her pink dress that Aunt Lydia bought for her as a present. She even wore heels. Zhoya and Roger bought those for her. They were so cute, pink heels with fluff in the front. I was so against it in the beginning, butter on I insisted. It¡¯s her birthday after all and I wanted her to feel special.

    Zhoya made a threeyers red velvet birthday cake with a lot of whip cream. She and Roger decorated their house so Amari could feel extra special today.

    Early in the morning Flynn and Mn went out. They are still not back yet and it was already nine. In a half hour we would have breakfast.

    I was worried. Both of them were so suspicious this morning. Flynn tried to sneak out of the room, but when he opened the door I immediately woke up.

    ¡°We¡¯re home.¡± I heard from the living room. Amari immediately ran towards them while I followed her. I let out a loud gasp as I saw what was now in the living room. Unicorn balloons, roses, and a whole bunch of designer bags.

    I was about to say something when my eyes caught a movement outside. ¡°Is that a¡ª,¡±

    I couldn¡¯t finish my sentence, because of how shocked I was. Completely and utterly shocked. I can¡¯t believe my eyes.

    ¡°A pony?¡± Flynn finished my sentence for me and grinned sheepishly, ¡°Yes, it is. Isn¡¯t she beautiful?¡± He looked outside the window and stared at the pony in awe. ¡°Her name is rainbow.¡±

    ¡°You¡­ you bought a pony for her?¡± I stuttered, I was still shocked.

    ¡°No, I mean do you want me to buy it for her? I just rented this one for a couple of hours.¡± He said nonchntly. As if normal dads would do that for their daughter¡¯s third birthday.

    ¡°Oh god, no. And are those Gi bags?¡± There were at least fifteen Gi bags on the floor. And the roses. And balloons. Oh and also the pony.

    ¡°Yes, pudding. You will totally like the clothes on her. It¡¯s the from their new collection.¡±

    I let out a deep sigh and shook my head. It¡¯s not like I could do anything about it. ¡°She will be so spoiled. Look, she¡¯s already wearing heels.¡±

    Flynn chuckled and walked over towards me. He nted a kiss on my forehead. ¡°You are a great mommy. Thank you for everything you do for her.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s my duty. But oh my god, is it really necessary to buy her all these expensive stuff?¡±

    Flynn ced his finger on my lips to silence me. ¡°Shh pudding, let¡¯s go have breakfast. Amari baby girl, let¡¯s eat.¡±

    ¡°But I wanna y with the pony.¡±

    ¡°You can y with the ponyter, baby girl.¡± Flynn said and carried her to the kitchen. Zhoya had already prepared breakfast for us all. Croissants and Toasts.

    ¡°I also made scrambled eggs and fried eggs.¡± She said, ¡°Dig in guys.¡±

    Breakfast was delicious. Zhoya was a really great cook.

    We went back to the living room to open the presents. Even Mn got a present from Flynn. He got an Xbox. Amari got clothes, dolls, and an intable castle.

    ¡°Thanks daddy.¡± She jumped on Flynn and hugged him tightly, burying her head in the crook of his neck.

    I watched them inplete awe. They were so cute and perfect and¡­ oh how I wished I had told Flynn earlier about her. He wouldn¡¯t had to miss her first birthday or her second. And he would be there when she said her first word, which bytheway wasn¡¯t mommy or daddy, but cake. Her first word was cake.

    ¡°Mommy?¡±

    I looked at Mn who was sitting next to me. My handsome little boy. ¡°Yes mi amor?¡±

    ¡°If i¡¯m in High school can Ie live with you?¡±

    I nodded my head at him and ruffled his hair. ¡°That¡¯s what I promised you. You will attend High school in America.¡±

    He smiled widely. ¡°Yes!! I¡¯ll see Ariana grande and I¡¯ll marry her!¡±

    Flynnughed at that. ¡°Ariana grande? She¡¯s way too old for you, bud.¡±

    ¡°No,¡± He said, shaking his head, ¡°She is twelve. She looks like it.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know how to tell you this.¡± I said,ughing nervously. ¡°But uhm, she¡¯s already engaged.¡±

    ¡°What?!¡± Mn¡¯s eyes widened in shock and surprise. ¡°To who?!¡±

    ¡°To some guy. I don¡¯t know his name.¡±

    ¡°Well,¡± Mn shrugged his shoulders. ¡°That doesn¡¯t mean that I don¡¯t have a chance. A goal has a goalkeeper, but that doesn¡¯t mean that I cannot score.¡± Mn said, making the whole roomugh. He¡¯s way to smart for his own good.

    ¡°Mom,¡± He said. ¡°Do you know I¡¯m the best defender in the football team? I want to be a professional footballer. I would be the best defender ever and Ariana Grande would love me.¡±

    Iughed. ¡°Well, it doesn¡¯t matter what you want to be in the future. As long as you¡¯re happy.¡±

    ¡­¡­..

    Several hourster

    ¡°Flynn, oh my god. Slower. Slower¡­ Why did you go faster?! Are you crazy, I was so close!,¡± I cried out, trying to keep my voice down. It was alreadyte at night and everyone was already asleep.

    ¡°Pudding, sshh, you¡¯re making so much noise.¡± He whisper yelled, cing one hand on my mouth.

    ¡°Vasilios!¡± I cried out silently, removing his hand from my mouth. ¡°Please let me. Pleaaasee¡­¡±

    ¡°Pretty please?¡± He asked with a smirk, still not slowing down. Oh god, I was getting so frustrated.

    ¡°Yes, yes¡­ Pretty please. I¡¯m tired already and I want to sleep.¡±

    ¡°Fine, I¡¯ll let you win¡­ Just this one time.¡± he said, as he slowed down his car on the screen.

    ¡°Yes, thank you!¡± I said as my car easily passed his. Momentster it passed the finish line and I jumped on the bed from joy. ¡°Yess! I finally won!¡±

    Flynn who sat down next to me watched me with an amused expression on his face. ¡°Does it feel good to win after fourteen losses?¡±

    I red at him. ¡°Shut up. You¡¯re such a jerk.¡±

    ¡°What?!¡± He yelled out offended. ¡°I let you win.¡±

    ¡°After fourteen losses. Yeah.¡±

    Heughed and stood up to put the Xbox back in the right ce, which was Mn¡¯s room.

    After everyone went to bed, Flynn and I got the Xbox out of Mn¡¯s room to y with it in our own room. It would be so much fun, if I actually knew how to y.

    Flynn was just silentlyughing at me the whole time instead of teaching me how to y with that goddamn thing.

    Flynn came back from Mn¡¯s room and crawled under the covers with me. It was already three in the morning. We only had a couple of hours to sleep.

    ¡°Pudding?¡± He suddenly asked.

    I turned around to face him. I couldn¡¯t see him, but I could feel the warmth of his body. ¡°Yes?¡±

    ¡°Do you want to go on another a date?¡­ With me¡­ obviously.¡±

    ¡°Only if you will teach me how to y on the Xbox.¡±

    I heard himugh. ¡°Sure, totally.¡±

    A smile crept on my face. I don¡¯t think that he could see it since the room was so dark. ¡°Then the answer is yes.¡±

    Jill Malik P. O. V

    I took onest look at my outfit in the mirror and I couldn¡¯t help but feel proud of myself. It was a long red satin dress with a high slit that Flynn bought for me as a gift. It fitted me like a glove and I wondered how Flynn knew my size even after all these years.

    Amari was sleeping over at Ximena and Rodrigo¡¯s tonight. Three weeks ago we came back from France. We dropped Mn and aunt Lydia in Barcelona and then we immediately flew back to the states, because Flynn had a lot of meetings to attend.

    Even I had to catch up on work. We were both very busy the following weeks. asionally Flynn came over for dinner after work or I dropped Amari at his to spend the night. We haven¡¯t really talked yet about ¡®us.¡¯ Simply, because we didn¡¯t got the chance to.

    My phone buzzed on the nightstand and I walked over to see who it was.

    Flynn: Open the door, pudding.

    A smile appeared on my face and I walked over to the living room to open the door. Flynn stood there, dressed in a ck suit, with a big smile on his face. What a handsome man he is. ¡°Hey gorgeous,¡± he greeted, hugging me and kissing both of my cheeks. ¡°I brought you red roses to match that pretty dress of yours.¡±

    Iughed. ¡°Thanks, Vasilios.¡± I took the flowers from him. ¡°So where are we going?¡±

    ¡°I thought of staying at home tonight. I brought dinner, wine, and dessert. We will have a fancy stay-at-home date night. What do you think?¡±

    ¡°Sounds like a n.¡± I moved out of my way so Flynn could step into the living room. Thank goodness I cleaned the house earlier. ¡°What do we have for dinner?¡±

    I followed him into the kitchen and he ced the stic bags on the table. He turned around to face me and said,¡± I broughtsagna, ravioli, and meatloaf. For desert there¡¯s chocte cake.¡±

    ¡°That sounds delicious. Did you made all of it yourself, Vasilios?¡±

    He let out augh and shook his head. ¡°I wish I could, but i¡¯m not Rodrigo.¡±

    I sat down on the bar stool and watch as Flynn moved around the kitchen to set the table. ¡°Do you need help?¡±

    ¡°No, I¡¯m good. You should sit and watch the boss do the magic.¡±

    I chuckled. ¡°Whatever you say, Vasilios.¡±

    I watch him light a candle and cing tes on the table. He then opened the wine and beckoned me to sit down at the table.

    ¡°So,¡± He said, sitting down in front of me. ¡°Are you impressed?¡±Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!

    ¡°Actually yeah. It¡¯s better than I imagined.¡± I answered honestly, taking a sip of my wine. It tasted delicious. Just what I needed after a busy week. ¡°So, how was your day?¡±

    Flynn stayed silent for a while. ¡°Uhm, it was great.¡± He said after a moment of hesitation. ¡°Actually¡­ Sera came by today¡­ at my office.¡±

 127

    My heart stopped for a millisecond. I stared at Flynn, waiting for him to continue. He probably saw the horrified expression on my face, because he shook his head.

    ¡°No, I made a promise to you and I will keep it until myst breath. Actually, Sera came to apologize.¡±

    I raised my eyebrows up at that. ¡°And? An apology will not excuse the things she did.¡±

    ¡°But I was also at fault, pudding. I admit it. What happened three years ago wasn¡¯t only her fault. We both know it. But that¡¯s not the point.¡±

    ¡°Then what is the point, Vasilios?¡±

    ¡°Sera¡¯s pregnant.¡±

    ¡°And?¡±

    ¡°She got raped. She¡¯s carrying the child of a rapist.¡±

    My breath got stuck in my throat. Now I was the one that was speechless. I would never wish rape or dead on my enemy or someone who did me wrong. It¡¯s horrible and disgusting.

    Flynn continued, ¡°She came to ask for my forgiveness so that she and her unborn child can live in peace. She told me that after the rape incident, she realized that money is a dangerous thing. The guy who raped her was a rich man. Her whole case got dismissed, because of money. She didn¡¯t get justice and the man who raped her is walking around freely.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re not serious.¡± I said shockingly.

    ¡°I am. This is not something new. Rich people always tend to get away with illegal things. I can do it too, but I prefer not. Anyways, she¡¯s moving to Georgia to live with her sister. She came by to ask me for forgiveness and told me that she got what she deserved for tearing us apart.¡±

    ###Chapter 31

    I shook my head. ¡°Rape is a fucked up thing. I would never wish that upon her, or anyone.¡±

    ¡°I told her that. But, yeah well, she said that it was karma¡¯s way of dealing with her. She doesn¡¯t want our pity.¡±

    I let out a deep sigh. ¡°I really feel bad for her. Is that weird?¡±

    Flynn gave me a small smile. ¡°Not at all. You¡¯re the most sweetest and caring person I¡¯ve ever known.¡±

    ¡°Aw, thanks Vasilios.¡±

    ¡°Now, let¡¯s eat. The food is getting cold¡­. I just uhm¡­ felt the need to tell you so that there¡¯s no mimunication. This time I want to do everything right.¡±

    I smiled warmly at him. ¡°As I already said Vasilios. Communication is the key.¡±

    ¡­..

    After dinner Flynn suddenly decided that it is a perfect night to go stargazing. I didn¡¯t had a problem with it. I don¡¯t care if we were at home or out, I just wanted to spend some quality time with him.

    When we arrived at the stargazing spot, a man was already waiting there for us. I guess Flynn had called him earlier.

    ¡°Hello,¡± He greeted. ¡°My name is Jason Kendall. You must be Mr. Vasilios.¡±

    Flynn nodded his head. ¡°Good evening Mr. Kendall. I brought my woman to watch some stars tonight.¡±

    Mr. Kendall gave me a small nod and look back at Flynn. ¡°Amazing. I have two telescopes for each of you and you can find a spot to watch the stars.¡± He handed Flynn and I each a telescope. ¡°Be careful with it.¡±

    ¡°Thank you.¡± Flynn said. He grabbed my hand and we walked around the park to find a spot. We decided to sit under a blossom tree.

    ¡°If we sit under a tree, we cannot see the stars.¡± I said, sitting down next to Flynn.

    ¡°Yes you can. Look, if you hold it like this¡ª,¡± Flynn held my telescope and showed me what he meant. ¡°Then you can see everything perfectly.¡±

    I followed his example and I was amazed that he was right. I could see everything clearly. I have never actually realize how beautiful the night sky is. Seeing it from a telescope is a whole new experience.

    ¡°Is it beautiful?¡±

    I nodded my head and put my telescope down. ¡°It is.¡±

    ¡°Look at me, pudding.¡±

    His voice held so much authority as he said that.

    I hesitantly looked up at him. The swirls of emotion I saw there made me gasp.

    Lust and desire.

    However, before I could ponder about it further, he yanked me closer to him and covered my mouth with his in a hungry kiss.

    His insistent mouth was parting my trembling lips, sending wild tremors along my nerves. Then, I kissed him back, the kiss getting deeper, deeper than all the gxies in the universe. I forgot how it was to kiss him. It has been so long, but his lips are definitely not a foreign touch to mine.

    As we parted I saw his eyes sparkle and lips curve up into a smile and I couldn¡¯t help but smile back. Finally, after a long time I feltplete again.

    ¡°I love you.¡± I whispered breathlessly.

    Epilogue

    Jill Malik P. O. V

    ¡°I, Flynn Vasilios take Jill Malik, to be mywfully wedded wife, secure in the knowledge that you will be my constant friend, my faithful partner in life, and my one true love.

    On this special day, I give to you in the presence of God and all these witnesses my pledge to stay by your side as your faithful husband in sickness and in health, in joy and in sorrow, as well as through the good times and the bad.

    I promise to love you without reservation,fort you in times of distress, encourage you to achieve all of your goals,ugh with you and cry with you, grow with you in mind and spirit, always be open and honest with you, and cherish you for as long as we both shall live.¡±

    Tears of happiness were streaming down my face like the Niagara Falls. I didn¡¯t care if my makeup was ruined, this was so perfect. Everything was so perfect. Flynn saw the tears on my face, wiped them away and then smiled at me. He cupped my cheeks, leaned in a little and kissed me fully on my lips.

    I now pronounce you husband and wife.

    Everyone pped and cheered as the priest said that. I looked at the crowd and couldn¡¯t help but smile at Aunt Lydia who was bawling her eyes out. She was crying even before I made the walk down the aisle. Flynn¡¯s mother and Ximena, who was my maid of honor, were all wiping away a tear.

    ¡°I can¡¯t just stand here. I really need to hug you.¡± an emotional Reina said from behind me as she wrapped her arms around me. She was one of my bridesmaids and she flew all the way from Italy to attend my wedding.

    ¡°Mommy, Millie Billie ate my cake.¡± Amari walked angrily over towards me. My baby girl looked so stunning in her white dress and flower crown. Even when she¡¯s angry, she¡¯s cute. Ximenaughed silently and picked her up. She gave Amari a kiss on her cheeks. ¡°It¡¯s mommy and daddy¡¯s wedding day, princess. Come, I will get you more cake. Where did Mn go?¡±

    Amari was our flower girl, but after she was down she immediately ran away to the dessert table instead of waiting until the ceremony ended. Mn, who was the one who brought our rings, followed his little sister after he had done his part.

    Only to tease and annoy her.

    ¡°He¡¯s hiding behind uncle GoGo. Millie Billie!¡±

    ¡°Stop calling me Millie Billie!¡± Mn yelled from behind Rodrigo.

    I shook my head at those two and Flynn chuckled. He took my hand in his and together we walked towards the reception followed by our guests.

    Flynn fulfilled my dream. I wanted a tropical wedding and he arranged it. It was perfect to say the least. Here, in the Maldives, it felt like everything was just a dream. A fairytale.

    It has been two years.

    Two years since we decided to start over, to give our rtionship a new chance. And I should not lie; it has been the most amazing two years of my life.

    Flynn was the best father I could have ever asked for Amari and Mn. He taught Amari horse-riding, ser, ballet, and he even brought her to clubs and sleepovers when I was in Barcelona to visit Aunt Lydia and Mn.

    Mn always came over during the holidays and Flynn, being the amazing boyfriend he was, brought him everywhere. Flynn loved Mn and vice versa. Both of them were always for hours behind the Xbox or they  simply watch an action movie while Amari and I were in the kitchen baking cookies.

    To trust Flynn again was not easy. It seemed easy in the beginning, but I had a lot of trust issues. There were times when I got so mad at Flynn especially when he came homete or he had to travel to another country for business.

    There were even times when I was so close to just walk away from him and everything.

    But all those fights and arguments, they all just turned out to be for the best. Flynn kept his promise. It was me and him; till death do us apart.

    He fought for me, he apologized even when I knew that I was at fault, and he simply never gave up on me. He was truly a changed man.

    He went out of his way to make me happy. He knew he had to win my trust back and he fully seeded in that.

    I trust him again. Now even more than before.

    And, I couldn¡¯t have been happier when he finally proposed to me¡­ again.

    It was like a dreame true¡­ again. I knew that this time everything would be pitched perfect. I knew that this time it was happening for real.

    ¡°Pudding.¡± Flynn squeezed my hand and I looked up at him. He looked so handsome in his tuxedo. Finally I could call this handsome man, my husband.

    ¡°Yes?¡±

    ¡°You look beautiful, Mrs. Vasilios.¡±

    The way he said Mrs. Vasilios made my heart melt. ¡°Mrs. Vasilios sound so perfecting out of your mouth.¡± I chuckled as we entered the reception room.

    I was stunned by how beautiful it was.

    ¡°Did you do all of this?¡± I asked Flynn bewildered as I looked around the room.

    He just shook his head andughed. ¡°I wished I could. I hired a wedding nner, pudding.¡±

    ¡°Here¡¯s Aunty Jill and Uncle Flynn.¡± Reina walked over towards us with a little girl in her hand, followed by her husband Luca. ¡°Say hello.¡±

    ¡°Hello.¡± The little girl said shyly. Her beautiful eyes blinking rapidly. I guess she just woke up from her nap.

    ¡°Hi Angelica, you look so beautiful.¡± I said smiling at her. Like Amari, she also wore a white dress and flower crown. The only difference is, is that she¡¯s three years younger than Amari.

    Angelica looked at her mother, frowning. Reina cleared her throat and said in Italian: ¡°Sei cosi be.¡±

    ¡°She¡¯s speaks Italian?¡± Flynn asked surprised.

    ¡°Yeah, we are trying to teach her both, English and Italian.¡± Luca said and smiled proudly.

    ¡°And when she gets older, she can also learn Portuguese, as that is my mother tongue.¡± Reina added and kissed Angelica on her cheeks. ¡°Isn¡¯t that right, Principessa?¡±

    Iughed. ¡°Angelica is so lucky to have international parents. She will be multilingual.¡±

    ¡°You should make Amari Multilingual too. It will benefit her in the future.¡± Reina suggested.

    ¡°Yes, she¡¯s good in English and Spanish. When she¡¯s older she can learn morenguages if she wants, but for now it¡¯s enough.¡± I said with a chuckle. ¡°Anyways, where¡¯s Amari? She can take Angelica out to y.¡±

    ¡°Ximmy!¡± I yelled as Ximena walked passed me with a tray of food. ¡°Did you see Amari?¡±

    Ximena pointed at the dessert table. ¡°She¡¯s eating cake, there.¡±

    I should have known.

    I turned back towards Reina and smiled at Angelica. ¡°Hey Angel, Amari is at the dessert table. You see¡­ there¡­ You two can both have dessert.¡±

    Angelica nodded her head eagerly. Dessert definitely sounded good to her, because in no time she was jumping out of her mom¡¯s arms and immediately walked over towards Amari.

    ¡°I hope they are going to be best friends.¡± Reina sighed as she stared dreamily at the two girls, who were now stuffing themselves full with cake.

    ¡°They need to be best friends.¡± I said with determination.

    ¡°Yes.¡± Reina repeated. ¡°They need to be. It will be our mission to make them best friends.¡±

    We bothughed heartily.

    ¡°It¡¯s time for the dance.¡± A voice said through the microphone.

    Reina squealed and pped excitedly in her hands.

    Flynn took my hand in his and he guided me to the dancefloor. Everyone was standing around us, staring at us inplete awe.ConTEent bel0ngs to N?v(e)lD/rama(.)Org .

    Aunt Lydia, Flynn¡¯s Parents, Ximena and Rodrigo, Reina and Luca, and Ethan and Irina, they were all here. From all the guests, they were the most important ones. Oh, and also Mn and Amari. My pride and joy.

    Flynn kept me close to his body and when the music began to y we slowly began to move our body to the rhythm.

    The slow music twirled like thread around us. I rested my head on Flynn¡¯s  chest, and let him sway my body ¡¯round and ¡¯round again.

    The violins came in, then the piano, and then the slow and sure beating of a drum. I love this man. My soulmate. My husband. I can¡¯t believe that once upon a one night stand I fell in love with a stranger and now¡­ now I¡¯m marrying him. The same man who imed that I had stolen his heart, but little did he know he had stolen mine too¡­ since the beginning. Since that night in Mn. The ce where it all begun.

    And suddenly the music slowed, and we met at the hands. I looked up into his ocean blue eyes, and cried tears of happiness¡­ again.

    We finally had our happily ever after.

    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and

    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!