Chapter: Chapter 69Jake's POV The knock at the door lingered in my mind as I stood there, my hand still gripping the doorknob. Behind me, Reyna was pressed against the wall, her chest heaving, her lips swollen from the kiss we’d just shared. The heat of the moment was still coursing through my veins, but I had to pull myself together.“Jake?” John called again, his tone sharper this time.I exhaled slowly, glancing over my shoulder at Reyna. Her wide eyes met mine, and for a moment, neither of us moved.“I’ll handle this,” I whispered to her, my voice low but firm.She nodded, biting her lip as I turned and opened the door just enough to step outside. John was standing there, arms crossed, looking impatient.“What’s so urgent?” I asked, keeping my tone neutral even though my mind was still spinning from what had just happened.“We need to finalize the plans for the moonlight party,” John said, his eyes narrowing slightly. “You weren’t at the briefing earlier.”“I was... preoccupied,” I replied, glancin
Last Updated: 2025-01-08
Chapter: Chapter 68Reyna's POV The dress was breathtaking a flowing silver gown that shimmered with every movement, hugging my figure perfectly. Two makeup artists fluttered around me, adding the finishing touches to my makeup and styling my hair into elegant waves. Their chatter faded into the background as I stared at my reflection in the mirror. For a moment, I almost didn’t recognize myself.“Perfect,” one of them said, stepping back to admire their work. “You’re going to be the star of the party tonight.”I smiled politely, though my mind was elsewhere. Tonight wasn’t just about beauty or elegance it was about navigating a night filled with uncertainty and hidden motives.The door opened, and Stephanie walked in, already dressed in a sleek emerald-green gown that complemented her complexion perfectly. She looked stunning, and I couldn’t help but smile.“Reyna,” she gasped, placing a hand on her chest as she walked closer. “You look incredible.”I laughed softly. “Look who’s talking. You’re glowing
Last Updated: 2025-01-07
Chapter: Chapter 67Marcus’s POVFrom my office window, I watched as Jacob stepped out of his car. His usual confident gait was evident, but there was an urgency in his stride that piqued my curiosity. He wasn’t the type to come unannounced unless there was something pressing.My fingers drummed against the desk as I waited for him to appear. Moments later, the door swung open, and Jacob strode in, his face tense.“Where’s Sarah?” he demanded without preamble, his tone sharp.I raised an eyebrow and leaned back in my chair, feigning indifference. “You don’t have the right to question me about Sarah. And besides,” I added, my voice lowering, “shouldn’t you be more concerned about getting your men ready? You’ve got a bigger problem at hand—your precious daughter, Reyna.”Jacob’s jaw clenched, but he didn’t back down. “I’ve heard rumors that Reyna has been spending time with Stephanie,” he said, his voice cutting through the tension. “And since Stephanie is Sarah’s sister, I need to know if you’ve been in c
Last Updated: 2025-01-06
Chapter: Chapter 66Jake’s POVThe amber liquid swirled in my glass as I stared blankly at the bar counter. The mansion was quiet, save for the distant hum of activity as the staff prepared for tomorrow's moonlight party. I brought the glass to my lips, letting the alcohol burn its way down, but it did nothing to dull the storm in my mind.How did I get here? A few months ago, I didn’t care about anyone least of all any woman. Life was simpler then. No distractions, no attachments. But now? I couldn’t go a day without thinking about her.Reyna.Her name haunted my every waking moment. The way she laughed, the way her eyes lit up when she was happy, and even the way she frowned when something didn’t sit right with her. It all consumed me, and I hated myself for it.The door to the bar creaked open, and I glanced up to see Diane and her assistant step inside. Great. Just what I needed.Her sharp eyes landed on me immediately. “Jake,” she said, her voice laced with a mix of curiosity and disapproval. “Drink
Last Updated: 2025-01-05
Chapter: Chapter 65Jake’s POVThe twilight air was calm as John and I sat on the porch, the sky streaked with hues of purple and orange. The clan had been unusually quiet lately, and for the first time in months, it felt like we could breathe. It was a rare moment of peace, and the upcoming moonlight party seemed like the perfect opportunity to celebrate.John leaned back in his chair, arms crossed behind his head. “Feels good, doesn’t it? No threats, no unnecessary drama. Just peace.”I nodded, my gaze fixed on the horizon. “Yeah, it’s been a long time coming. Let’s hope it stays this way.”He chuckled lightly. “Don’t jinx it, Jake. Trouble has a way of finding us when we least expect it.”We shared a laugh, but my thoughts were elsewhere. The party wasn’t just a celebration; it was a time for significant decisions. Decisions I wasn’t sure I was ready for.After a few moments of silence, I cleared my throat. “So… have you decided?”John raised an eyebrow. “Decided what?”“Who you want your mate to be,”
Last Updated: 2025-01-04
Chapter: Chapter 64Reyna's POVSitting on my bed, I pulled my knees to my chest, staring out the window as I spoke to Stephanie. She was lounging on the chair near the dresser, brushing her hair but listening intently.“I know Diane set me up,” I said, breaking the silence. “She’s been waiting for any opportunity to embarrass me, but thankfully John didn’t give her the satisfaction.”Stephanie smirked and set her brush down. “You’re lucky John handled it so quickly. Diane’s schemes are getting ridiculous, but she won’t stop. You need to be on guard.”“I know,” I replied with a sigh. “I can’t let her get to me, though. That’s what she wants—to push me out of the way.”Stephanie tilted her head, studying me. “You’re stronger than her, Reyna. And let’s be honest, she’s desperate. It shows.”I smiled faintly at her encouragement, but my thoughts quickly drifted elsewhere. “By the way, have you seen Jake today?” I asked, trying to sound casual.Stephanie raised an eyebrow. “Not since dinner last night. Why?”
Last Updated: 2025-01-02
Chapter: Chapter 40Chapter 40: A New PerspectiveChelsea paced the living room, her mind racing after Liam's visit. The rose sat in a vase on the coffee table, a quiet reminder of the whirlwind of emotions she was experiencing. She turned at the sound of the door opening. Reese walked in, her face lit up with an unmistakable grin.“Spill it,” Reese said, dropping her bag and heading straight for the couch.“What are you talking about?” Chelsea asked, feigning ignorance.Reese crossed her arms and gave Chelsea a knowing look. “Don’t play dumb. I was standing outside. I heard everything.”Chelsea’s cheeks flushed. “You were eavesdropping?”“Of course I was!” Reese admitted unapologetically. “How could I not? Liam Southwick, the man every woman in this city would kill to be with, just confessed his feelings for you! And you’re acting like it’s no big deal?”Chelsea shook her head, sighing. “It’s not that simple, Reese. There’s Aria. She’s pregnant with his child. How can I possibly—”Reese held up a hand,
Last Updated: 2025-01-08
Chapter: Chapter 39Chapter 39: A Step Towards ResponsibilityLiam adjusted his tie as he entered the café where he was meeting Aria. The afternoon sunlight poured through the large windows, illuminating her as she sat at a table near the corner. She greeted him with a warm smile, her hands resting delicately on the table."Liam," she said sweetly, standing up as he approached.“Aria,” he replied, his tone even but guarded. He took a seat opposite her and folded his hands on the table.Aria tilted her head, studying him. “You look tense. Is something wrong?”Liam let out a controlled sigh. “I’ve been thinking. If you’re carrying my child, then we need to ensure everything is handled properly. I want to meet your doctor and get you registered at a hospital where you’ll receive the best care.”Her expression faltered for a moment, but she quickly recovered. “That’s very thoughtful of you, Liam. I’ve already been seeing a good doctor, but if you insist, I’ll set up an appointment for us to visit together.”
Last Updated: 2025-01-08
Chapter: Chapter 38Chapter 38: The night of the gala The morning of the gala arrived, bringing a whirlwind of activity at the estate. Staff bustled about, ensuring everything was perfect for the evening’s event. The kitchen was a hive of movement, trays of hors d'oeuvres being prepared, while waitstaff rehearsed their routines. The air was filled with a mix of excitement and tension.Chelsea stood at the window of her modest apartment, staring at the red dress hanging from her closet. The matching silver heels and jewelry sparkled under the morning light, a stark reminder of Liam's intentions. Her heart raced at the thought of being his date, a mix of exhilaration and apprehension coursing through her.Reese walked in, holding two mugs of coffee. “Still staring at it?” she asked, handing one mug to Chelsea.Chelsea sighed, taking the coffee. “I don’t know if I can do this, Reese. It feels so… overwhelming.”Reese plopped onto the bed, smirking. “Overwhelming or exciting? Come on, Chelsea, this isn’t ju
Last Updated: 2025-01-08
Chapter: Chapter 37Chapter 37: A Decision to make.The following morning arrived with an air of anticipation, the gala looming ever closer. Chelsea spent the early hours at work, attempting to avoid Liam’s gaze and focus on her responsibilities, though her thoughts kept drifting to the red dress waiting for her at home.By mid-morning, the kitchen was abuzz with activity. The head chef moved through the room, issuing orders as the staff prepared ingredients and practiced recipes for the gala menu.“Focus, people! This event will define us. If one plate leaves the kitchen looking less than perfect, it’s on you!” he barked, his tone both motivational and intimidating.Chelsea kept her head down, concentrating on her assigned task of arranging appetizer trays. Despite her efforts, whispers filled the air whenever she passed by. The rumors about her connection with Liam had clearly spread among the staff, making her an unintended centerpiece of gossip.“Chelsea,” the head chef’s voice broke through her thou
Last Updated: 2025-01-08
Chapter: Chapter 36Chapter 36:A kiss of warmthIn the bustling kitchen, the clatter of pots and pans filled the air as the head chef gathered everyone around for a meeting about the upcoming gala. It was a high-profile event, and each of them was expected to be on their A-game. Chelsea listened intently, though her thoughts drifted to Liam more than she liked to admit.“All right, everyone,” the head chef announced, commanding their full attention. “Tomorrow’s gala is an important event. We need to make sure everything runs smoothly. Each of you will have specific tasks, and I don’t want any surprises. Understood?”A murmur of agreement rippled through the staff, but as the head chef continued his briefing, the phone rang, piercing through the noise.The head chef glanced at the phone, then picked it up. “Yes, Head Chef speaking,” he said briskly. His eyebrows shot up in surprise before he lowered the phone and looked directly at Chelsea. “Chelsea, Mr. Liam wants to speak with you.”Chelsea’s heart skip
Last Updated: 2025-01-08
Chapter: Chapter 35CHAPTER 35: MEANT TO KNOW EVERYTHING The next day dawned gray and chilly, a reflection of the mood hanging over Chelsea. She was still processing what she had learned about Aria’s pregnancy, and her thoughts churned as she went about her routine. The morning had barely begun, but the weight of what she had discovered felt overwhelming.At work, Chelsea focused on her tasks, hoping they would distract her. But her mind kept circling back to Liam, to his reaction, and to her own conflicted feelings. When she arrived at his office later that morning, the tension in the air was almost tangible. Liam was sitting at his desk, his expression unreadable, yet there was an unmistakable resolve in his eyes. Chelsea felt a pang of sympathy—whatever he was dealing with was clearly just as challenging for him.“Chelsea, come in,” he said, his voice steady. She stepped inside, shutting the door quietly behind her. “Thank you for bringing me that document yesterday. I appreciate it.”Chelsea nodded,
Last Updated: 2025-01-08