Chapter: Chapter 73Isabella Aaron's expression turns serious as he absorbs the impact of my words. The tension between us escalates, fueled by our mutual stubbornness. "You know, Isabella," he retorts, frustration tinting his voice, "you're quick to judge without really knowing me. But I won't waste my time trying to prove something to you." I scoff, feeling a wave of anger. "Prove something? Why should I care? You're just another arrogant, spoiled man who thinks he can have whatever he wants." His eyes narrow, a flash of pain crossing his face. "You think you have me all figured out, don't you? Well, let me tell you something. There's more to me than meets the eye. And maybe, just maybe, if you took the time to look beyond your preconceived notions, you'd see that." I shake my head, unable to let go of my resentment. "I highly doubt that, Aaron. Actions speak louder than words, and so far, all I've seen is a man who thrives on power and manipulation." He takes a step closer, his voice low and inten
Last Updated: 2023-12-04
Chapter: Chapter 72Meeting Aaron Reeves and Isabella FerraraIn this vibrant city, where the diverse aroma of kitchens fills the air, I, heir to the prestigious "Sabor de Sofia" restaurant chain, am constantly searching for new inspirations to maintain the exceptional culinary standard set by my mother. And then comes Isabella Ferrara, a talented and passionate chef known for her authentic and innovative restaurant called "Enchanted Gastronomy." I had heard of her before, but... damn! I had no idea she was so beautiful! Big, blue, speculative eyes. A mouth... I would pray to taste. Well-shaped, full, and in a heart shape. And the body. Oh, that body! She's not very tall, but she has curves that left me dizzy. Yes, she definitely shocked me with her appearance.Our paths crossed unexpectedly during a local culinary event, where we were invited to showcase our specialties. However, from the start, there was an antipathy between us, coming from her side. My familiarity with running a culinary empire clashe
Last Updated: 2023-12-04
Chapter: Chapter 71Sofia"Good, but I have another reason for being here.""Tell me, because I'm dying to change the subject!" Laura declares, putting Aaron, still asleep, in the car seat and heading to the kitchen to get two glasses of iced tea. I follow her, leaning on the counter, as she serves us."I have a proposal for you."The girl furrows her brow and peeks at me."Proposal?""Yes. After everything that happened, I realized that my priorities were a mess! Especially after everything that happened at the restaurant. I owe a lot to my husband and son, and that needs to change.""And where do I fit into this story?"I smile, teasing, knowing that it annoys her because she's very anxious."Sofia!" she scolds, stomping her foot. "Spit it out, woman!"I laugh and speak up before the other person has a crisis in front of me."I would like you to be the manager of the restaurant.""Me?""Yes. You. My beautiful friend, whom I trust the most in this world and know will handle the job well.""But I know no
Last Updated: 2023-12-04
Chapter: Chapter 70I have my lips pressed together as I observe Laura's reaction. I've just told her what we've been through in the past few days. She's motionless, her breath held, her restless eyes scanning my face as if processing the information she just received. Then she gives me a brief but tight hug and goes to the baby carrier where Aaron is peacefully asleep, picking him up and cradling him lovingly against her chest. Her eyes are now closed, and I notice a shiver running through her. "By God, Sofia! Why didn't you call me?" Her voice is deep and trembling. "I had no idea what you were going through!""I was already so scared, knowing I was at risk, with my house taken over by a battalion of police. I was terrified at the thought that David might find out somehow, and then I would never see my son again!" I run my hand over Aaron's back, who remains asleep, oblivious to everything that has happened to him. "And, to be honest, I didn't even have the mental capacity to think about anything else,
Last Updated: 2023-12-01
Chapter: Chapeter 69Sofia"We have to be careful. He might be armed," one of the officers cautioned the others, reminding everyone of the seriousness of the situation.Unaware of the shadow trailing him, David seemed to be searching for something in that abandoned place. Out of sight, we followed every move with bated breath, eager for any sign that Aaron and Laureen were nearby.Then, a murmur came over the police radio, indicating they had found something. The suspense heightened as we watched the team stealthily approach a rusty door. David, still lost in his thoughts, remained oblivious to the presence of the police.The door creaked open as the agents carefully opened it. The darkness inside swallowed their outlines, but their silhouettes moved with determination. A beam of light from a flashlight cut through the darkness, revealing a dirty and abandoned space."It looks like the scene of a kidnapping," one of the officers informed me."It does?" I asked, confused.Then the man's body camera reveale
Last Updated: 2023-11-30
Chapter: Chapter 68SofiaThe police show us real-time images of what's happening at the location where I left the bag with the money. Hours have passed; David hasn't called again, but he hasn't gone after the money either. Both Brandon and I can't eat anything. Anguish takes over us. The worry about how our son is doing. Our little, fragile baby. I've decided that when I have him in my arms again, I'll dedicate more time to him, even if I have to hire someone to help me with the restaurant. I love what I do, but I love my family even more. It took being in this current situation for me to realize that these are my priorities. Aaron and Brandon. The two men in my life."Look!" One of the police officers calls our attention to the laptop on the kitchen counter. We approached quickly, realizing that a man, covered from head to toe, gets out of a car near the trash can where that fortune I took was. I recognize him, even if I can't see his face. The way he walks is unmistakable. It's David. He walks slowly
Last Updated: 2023-11-29
Chapter: EpilogSeven years later...“Noah! – Alexis called from the kitchen. "Don't try to trick me, young man!" I know you're awake! She smiled and shook her head.Soon her little boy, dark, with beautiful and expressive blue eyes and curly hair, appeared. He was the exact copy of his father. Even the heterochromia in his left eye he had. He came with his arms hanging by his sides, dragging his feet and his head down. It was the picture of defeat. But it didn't move her. Every day was the same. And he looked gorgeous in his Buzz Light"year pajamas ..." Mom, why do I have to go to school today? – he retorted. " It's too early, it's raining, it's cold, and I'm still sleepy...“Noah! She grabbed him by the collar of his blouse, leaning down and showering him with kisses, from his rosy cheeks to his neck, where she knew he tickled. " Stop being lazy, boy!" Stop, mother !" – he scolded, squirming to get rid of her hands, while trying to hide his laughter and keep an angry face.With one last kiss on h
Last Updated: 2023-08-29
Chapter: Chapter 84She nodded in agreement, seeking support in her husband's arms, she braced herself." Now. Come on, it's almost there, Alexis... " encouraged the doctor.Ethan was all agony. He hugged the woman's hard body, holding her tight and praying to heaven that it would all be over soon." Ready! – the doctor exclaimed. – A perfect baby… And with great lungs!And then they heard the little one's desperate cry. And Noah was in the world. Alexis collapsed onto the bed, smiling, her body completely given over to exhaustion now.Ethan, as soon as she was seated, went searching for his little treasure.When his eyes landed on that tiny creature that was now wrapped in a towel by the nurse, he could never put into words what he felt at that moment. It was a feeling that everything in life finally made sense. That everything was complete! And that his love for that tiny piece of people was so immense, so intense, that he would give his life for him, without even blinking.Without realizing it, he had
Last Updated: 2023-08-29
Chapter: Chapter 83Alexis sighed and stroked her enormous, nearly nine"month"old belly. As usual, he couldn't help but smile. She could not even believe that she would soon meet her already very beloved son! And thank heavens for having the smoothest of pregnancies. A little nausea or other, but nothing that bothered her too much. Now that she was heading for the final stretch, she was feeling more uncomfortable, her legs more tired, her back that wouldn't let her sleep, or sit, or walk, but still, nothing could take the smile off her face. I was delighted! And seeing the happiness of her beautiful husband, every time he looked at her or caressed her belly and talked to her little one... She asked herself if she deserved so many blessings!Ethan insisted, as did Godmother Norah, that she stay home and rest, but she just couldn't sit still. Like now, when they finished an arrangement that would be delivered the next day, and they were already closing the office. When she felt that her body was asking for
Last Updated: 2023-08-29
Chapter: Chapter 82But I knew something was missing. Even though her adoring husband didn't push her, it was no secret how much he wanted a baby. Alexis also avoided talking about this subject, as he was still too afraid to go through that situation again. But every time she saw how much love he treated his little godson, son of Eric and Eileen, the more her heart sank.So, a few weeks ago, without telling him, she had stopped taking the contraceptive… And then came the main gift she planned to give him.Grasping the handle, Alexis bit her lip and slowly opened the door.Ethan looked up at her as she walked in and leaned against the closed door, hands deep in his coat pockets. With that so beautiful, sensual and beloved sexy smile in the corner of his lips, he examined her completely and slowly:"Hmm... Especially... And those red shoes..." His pretty white teeth showed as he widened his smile. "Can I take my clothes off now?"Alexis bit her lip again, throwing her head back, in a short sensual laugh, s
Last Updated: 2023-08-29
Chapter: Chapter 81" Excellent! " and headed for the stairs. "Because all I want is to take care of you!" You must be exhausted! " already in the bedroom, he placed it carefully on the sheets. "You've had a surgical procedure, you shouldn't be walking around!" He feigned an angry expression as he freed her from her shoes.Alexis laughed and stretched out her arms, beckoning him with her hands:" It's because I needed to see you today!Ethan also quickly got rid of his shoes and went to her side:" All you had to do was call me, and I'd be back on my own axis, to you!They stared at each other for a long moment, as if memorizing each other's faces. Arms wrapped around each other, bodies very close together. As if they were one." I love you! Alexis whispered, lost in his blue eyes. "And I would give anything to be able to make love to you…" She nibbled lightly on his lip.Ethan closed his eyes, holding a sigh in his chest.“What's a few weeks? " he himself seemed not to feel firmness in his words. "And t
Last Updated: 2023-08-29
Chapter: Chapter 80'It wasn't your fault, Alexis!' Ethan stated, exasperated to see her in that state, reaching for his hand. “It was natural. The doctor told me..."But I rejected him one day!" " she interrupted him, excited, fleeing contact. "And God punished me by taking him away from me!" And I'm sorry if I let you down... " he added in a thin voice, lowering his head."You didn't let me down!" He softened, this time clasping her hands in his."But you wanted this baby so badly!" She looked at him, dejected."Yes, but that wasn't in your hands!"Alexis raised her teary eyes to him. They looked desperate, anxious. And then the words came out:"Ethan, I love you!" So much! His voice was serious. " You have become the reason for my life! But even feeling this way and feeling this way,” she subtly released her hand from his. "I can't impose myself on you...Wow! What was going on there? Alexis Morgan had just confessed that she loved him? Ethan was stunned for a moment. He couldn't believe his ears!But
Last Updated: 2023-08-29
Ties of a Contract
Sophia Carter has spent her entire life sacrificing her dreams to support a family that never valued her. With a terminally ill narcissistic mother and a selfish brother who sees her only as a source of support, she is on the brink of financial and emotional collapse. When every door seems to close, an unexpected proposal arises: a marriage of convenience with Alexander Hawthorne, the ruthless magnate who embodies everything she fears… and everything her heart insists on desiring.
Alexander is known for his coldness and relentless mistrust, especially towards women. To him, everyone has a price, and Sophia is no different. She will be just another piece in his game: the perfect wife to maintain appearances and ensure the stability of his business. He doesn’t want love, nor intimacy. Much less does he intend to share a bed with her.
But as Sophia and Alexander become entangled in this dangerous agreement, lines are crossed, secrets are revealed, and the desire they both struggle to deny threatens to ignite the icy facade they’ve built.
In a world where everything seems to be a transaction, how far will they go to protect what’s left of their souls?
A story of passion, power, and unyielding boundaries, where even the coldest hearts can be broken… or saved.
Read
Chapter: Chapter 45 – Olivia’s FurySophiaThe afternoon sun softly filters through the wide windows, bathing the living room in a golden light. I’m sitting on the couch, with a book open on my lap, but I can’t focus on the words. I also tried writing, but nothing comes to mind. My fingers instinctively move over my belly, trying to calm the anxiety that never fully goes away.Alexander left early for a series of important meetings. I told him to go without worrying, assuring him I would be fine. And I am. At least, I was until now.The intercom rings, breaking the silence. I get up slowly and walk over to the device.“Mrs. Hawthorne?” The doorman’s hesitant voice comes through. “There’s a woman here saying she wants to speak with you. She introduced herself as Olivia Sinclair.”My heart stops for a second. Olivia.“She said she’s here in… peace,” the doorman adds quickly.Part of me screams to send her away. Not to let her set foot inside here again. But another part, more rational, thinks maybe she really has come to
Last Updated: 2025-01-12
Chapter: Chapter 44 – ConfrontationChapter 44 – ConfrontationSophiaThe silence in the penthouse is almost comforting. For the first time in weeks, I feel like I can breathe without the weight of the world crushing my chest. I’m sitting on the couch, holding a cup of hot tea in my hands, while Alexander works in the next room. He insists that I rest, but my mind won’t stop. I’m still getting used to being back here, to the familiar smell of this place, to the memories it holds.I place one hand on my belly and close my eyes. There are two of them. Two little hearts beating inside me. The responsibility scares me, but it also gives me the strength to keep going.The sound of the doorbell echoes through the living room, and my tranquility vanishes like smoke.“I’ll get it!” I call out, before one of the security guards can interfere.I walk over to the door and open it, but I regret it the instant I do.Leo.He’s there, his face flushed, his eyes red with anger and perhaps something else. Alcohol? He looks different, mo
Last Updated: 2025-01-11
Chapter: Chapter 43 – Between Wounds and PromisesChapter 43 – Between Wounds and PromisesSophiaAlexander stands in the middle of my tiny living room, a displaced figure in this cramped and simple space. He looks like a giant in a world not made for him. His broad shoulders slump, his eyes are tired, and there is a weight of guilt so heavy on him that I can almost touch it.I cross my arms over my chest, more out of instinct for self-protection than anything else. My belly is already starting to show under my loose T-shirt, and I feel an extra burden as I try to stand firm before him.“So you needed proof, Alexander,” I say, my voice coming out firmer than I expected. “You needed to investigate, seek documents, confront people… to believe me. When from the start it was so obvious who was behind everything.”He lowers his head, his shoulders drooping even further. The image of the powerful, relentless man he has always been crumbles before my eyes.“Sophia, I…” He lifts his head, and his blue eyes meet mine, filled with regret. “I w
Last Updated: 2025-01-10
Chapter: Chapter 42 - Two Hearts, One DestinySophiaThe sound of dishes clattering echoes through the small café kitchen. Steam rises from the pans, and the heavy aroma of grease mingles with the sweet scent of freshly brewed coffee. My white T-shirt, already tight due to my growing belly, is smeared with tomato sauce, but I barely notice. My fingers tremble as I try to balance two cups of coffee and a tray of pie slices."Sophia! Table three has been waiting for five minutes!" shouts my boss, Mr. Garret, a man in his fifties with a thick mustache and a stern look."I'm coming!" I reply, trying to keep my voice steady.Sweat drips down the back of my neck as I weave between the cramped tables, a practiced smile plastered on my face. With every step, I feel the tension in my belly beneath the apron. I'm only a few weeks along, but it already feels like I'm carrying a heavy weight. Maybe it’s the worry. Maybe it’s the fear.Earlier today, before my shift started, I went to the doctor for a routine ultrasound. The doctor's words st
Last Updated: 2025-01-09
Chapter: Chapter 41 – Between Broken LinesAlexanderThe silence in the penthouse is deafening. The panoramic windows reveal the city outside, bright and bustling, but inside everything feels stagnant, dead. My only company is the echo of my own thoughts and the nearly empty whiskey bottle beside me.Every sip that burns down my throat feels like acid, but not enough to erase the image of Sophia walking away, her eyes filled with tears and her voice breaking as she said, "I know this baby is yours. Even if any damned test says otherwise."Those words haunt me. They’ve clung to my skin like scars that will never fade.The ultrasound she left on the bed is now in my hand. The blurred image of the small being who was supposed to be our child consumes me from the inside out. I close my eyes and press my forehead against the cold paper. I failed her. I failed the baby. I failed myself.A soft knock on the door interrupts my torment."Alexander?" It’s Dominic. His voice is full of caution but also firm."Go away, Dominic," I say, my
Last Updated: 2025-01-08
Chapter: Chapter 40 - Divided PathsSophiaThe result is still engraved in my mind, like an immutable sentence that echoes endlessly. The cold, direct words on the paper, followed by Alexander's devastated look, still burn on my skin like a branding iron."Another mistake, Sophia? In how many of these mistakes will you be the innocent one?"Each syllable was a blow. Each pause, a knife digging deeper into my chest. I never, never had been with another man besides him after we got married. But now, doubt has poisoned everything we built, and there's nothing more I can do to convince him otherwise.My fingers tremble as I close the zipper of my suitcase for the last time. The room that was once my refuge now feels like a prison. The walls oppress me, the scent of his perfume is still on the pillow, on the clothes, in every corner of this space that, for a brief moment, was our home.A tear runs down my face as I look around one last time. It's funny how, in just a few seconds, a place can transform from a home into a fare
Last Updated: 2025-01-07
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