Chapter: Epilogue: Riding the Edge of ChangeRei's Point of ViewI yearned for the freedom and exhilaration of riding on the back of Xavier's motorcycle, but ever since we found out about my pregnancy, he insisted on taking the car whenever we went out together. While I understood his concern for my safety and that of our unborn child, I couldn't help but feel a sense of loss for the rush of wind in my hair and feeling like I was flying with him. This baby was a surprise blessing for us, one we both cherished deeply, yet I couldn't shake off the lingering longing for our carefree rides on his bike.Shiloh had kindly offered to take care of Onyx and Salem while Xavier took me out for a date. Life had been hectic with moving into a new house and the kids starting at a new school. Though we didn't live in our small hometown anymore, we were still close by. It was a chance to start fresh, something we all needed. The kids had finally found their place and made friends who often hung out at our house, enjoying bonfires and stargazing
Last Updated: 2024-12-05
Chapter: Chapter 104: Beyond the ShadowsRei’s Point of ViewTwo weeks passed by in the blink of an eye. It was strange adapting to our new normal. The kids were pulled from school so that we could have a proper funeral for my grandfather and we could find new living arrangements. Saying farewell to a man who played such an influential role in my life yet remained unknown until his last moments was an incredibly surreal experience.As the casket was closed, Shiloh and Onyx remained silent as they said their final goodbyes. I couldn't help but notice Xavier, Aamon, and Salem standing together. Both men reached for one of Salem's hands, causing him to straighten his back and take a deep breath. It was almost as if he acknowledged someone or something only he could see. I tried to look in the same direction but saw nothing. However, recent events have taught me not to discount the possibility of there being something more beyond our physical world.Since our last moments together, I hadn't sensed X's presence. However, not long
Last Updated: 2024-12-04
Chapter: Chapter 103: Navigating New WorldsRei’s Point of ViewMy choice. This time, it would be my choice. The words echoed in my mind as I stared at my three sleeping children. I couldn’t recall a time except when Xavier came into my life when I was truly given a choice—when the decision was entirely my own.“You have a lot to think about. Why don’t I give you some space to do that?” my brother said as he patted my head and walked out of the room.My brother. I have a brother who is dating my best friend. I’m still trying to wrap my head around that. Wait, Aamon just patted my head as he walked out, much like Onyx would do to Salem. I smiled to myself at the thought.Honestly, I had no desire to return to the house. It held too many painful memories of my grandfather's death and Lillianna's betrayal. Every room felt haunted by the life I once shared with Greg. Starting fresh in a new place with Xavier and the children sounded like the best option.However, relocating my children from their current school and leaving behind th
Last Updated: 2024-12-01
Chapter: Chapter One Hundred and Two: Future Plans and Family DecisionsAamon’s Point of ViewAs Xavier left the room, the office fell into a heavy silence. Rei's nervous eyes darted around, taking in each of our faces."Chloe, were you paid to be my friend?" she asked hesitantly.All eyes turned to me, and I let out a sigh."I hired Chloe to protect you and Grace to become your friend. But Chloe, Grace, and Iris genuinely care about you, Rei. It may have started as a job for them, but their feelings for you are real," I explained."Ladies, Rei and I haven't had a chance to talk alone as siblings yet. Could you give us some privacy for a few minutes? Maybe check on Xavier and contact Sam to make sure she's okay. With our new circumstances, it would be best if Alex, Tom, and Matt knew what we were dealing with. If we're going to change how we operate, we'll need the support and understanding of our loved ones," I suggested.Grace squeezed my hand in support and kissed my cheek softly."I can stay if you need me to," she whispered discreetly.I smiled at her
Last Updated: 2024-11-26
Chapter: Chapter One Hundred and One: Wise Words and Whispers of IntrigueXavier’s Point of ViewOn my way back to the office, I passed by the kids playing in the game room. Salem noticed me and studied me intensely as if he was trying to figure something out. His face showed his frustration, and I couldn't help but wonder what was going on. Then, he looked past me and gave me a disapproving look. I turned around, expecting to see something or someone that had caused Salem's reaction, but there was nothing there. Just as I was about to continue on my way, Salem spoke up and caught my attention.Salem looked at me seriously and asked, "Can I talk to you, Xavier?""Absolutely," I replied. I noticed him looking over my shoulder and then sticking his tongue out. It was strange behaviour, but considering all that Salem had been through recently, it could have been his way of coping. At least he felt comfortable enough to come to me when he needed to talk."Can we go to your room to talk? Unless you and Mom didn't clean up, and it's too messy in there," Salem aske
Last Updated: 2024-11-25
Chapter: Chapter One Hundred: Begin AgainGrace’s Point of ViewAs I opened my eyes, I realized that the bed was empty. Aamon was not there, and I could feel the coldness of the sheets where he had been laying. He must have left a while ago. I sat up quickly, pulling the sheets closer to my body for warmth. I let out a sigh, hoping that everything was alright. This was something that I needed to get used to once again, especially now that Aamon was in charge of the organization.As I dressed, I realized Rei had no clothes to change into. I rummaged through the bag of unpacked clothing and found a pair of jeans, a t-shirt, underwear, and a bra that would fit her. This would suffice for now; we could find a more permanent solution for Rei and Xavier's clothing later. Xavier had left everything behind at his apartment to get Rei to the hospital on time, so he also needed some clothes. Fortunately, I found a T-shirt and a pair of grey sweatpants that should fit him well enough. Aamon and Xavier had similar builds, which worked out
Last Updated: 2024-11-24