Andrea Cromwell’s POVMy phone buzzed incessantly as I wrapped up the design I had been working on since morning. As the Founder and CEO of Ratio Architects, I didn’t have a moment of respite! I preferred it that way! Keeping myself busy helped me mend my shattered heart. It took me five long years to achieve my dreams. Yes, I was proud of my achievements! Entrepreneurship was an arduous journey with more bumps than a smooth sail, but I had soldiered on single-handedly. I was grateful to Sebastián Conrad, the CEO of Conrad Architects Worldwide, for giving me an opportunity! The alliance with Conrad got me a regular flow of work, money, fame, and success. When I started, I had nothing apart from a broken heart, tears, and a difficult pregnancy to deal with. It was a fierce battle for me so far, but I emerged as a winner! I could prove to the world that it wasn’t so easy to break me. I glanced at my phone to notice my grandpa Vincent Cromwell’s number flashing across the screen. A se
Andrea’s POVAll eyes were on me, and I had no option but to step into the room. My glance immediately flew towards the far end where he stood, brooding like a dark angel! He still looked the same. Furious, rebellious, and arrogant. How had I expected him to change? My heart sank, and I felt like the rug had been pulled from underneath my feet. His blue eyes locked with mine, making my heartbeats run amok. My posture stiffened as his eyes seared into mine. My breath settled near my collarbone. All the memories flooded my brain at that moment. Those memories left me dizzy, hurt, and numb with longing. So many years have passed between us, yet I struggled to hide the emotions choking my throat. The reason was obvious! I loved him with everything I possessed. Despite his rejection, I hadn't been able to move on from him.Was he really here? The short black hair, the thick dark brows, the long curled eyelashes, the chiseled face, and the full lips were still the same! He was still the mo
Andrea’s POV “Andrea, is everything alright?” Granny Catherine’s voice brought me out of my daze. Ever since that phone call, I hadn’t been able to stop worrying about the next day’s meeting. I knew Zion was upset at seeing my lack of interest. Did he seriously think I would do his bidding? After my rebuff, he had just agreed to meet me tomorrow and disconnected the call. Ever since I had no idea what was going on in his mind. It was strange he didn’t specify a time for the meeting. “Yes, granny!” I blushed under her scrutiny. How did she figure out I was going through mental turmoil? After all, I hadn’t interacted with her for quite some time. Grandpa Vincent married Catherine Shelby six years ago. I left for Athens immediately thereafter. We could hardly bond with one another. Yet she was now an indispensable part of our family, taking care of my boys and Knox’s children, too. With Knox and his fiancée, Danielle Hartford, away on a vacation, I could hide from his relentless inter
Andrea’s POVZion’s eyes glittered as they focused on me, holding my gaze, challenging me to look away. I couldn’t because the memories of the little time I shared with him came rushing into my mind. My emotions were all over the place! I tried hard to keep them at bay, to maintain a cold, professional front, but my heart gave me away. He was the father of my children, after all! ‘You shouldn’t forgive him for what he’s done to you. He doesn’t even accept them as his own!’ reminded my inner mind. I blinked the emotions away. I had to be stronger if I wanted my revenge. “You know me so well, Andrea! Yes, there’s a catch, but don’t worry. It’s not a daunting task to do.” He leaned towards me, but I didn’t back off, facing him bravely. “I will help your business in every way as long as you stay with me in my house here. I want you to move in with me! The moment you leave, I’ll stop providing you with work.” My jaws dropped with shock. “What the f*ck! Why would I do that?” I felt like
Zion’s POV “Damn! Why hasn’t Mr. Robinson arrived here yet? The restaurant project should be ours at all costs.” Charlie Martin, the marketing manager of Conrad Architects, stammered, having to deal with me for the first time. He had no idea how difficult I would make his life if I didn’t get what I wanted. Yes, I wanted to see Andrea accept defeat and bow down to my terms and conditions. She might consider me evil, but I didn’t care. I was helpless five years ago, but not anymore. I wanted her back in my life! “He called to inform us he would be the twenty minutes late, sir.” I punched the desk in frustration. “I hate tardiness. Didn’t you tell him that? What about the other projects? Did you follow up on those?” I had appointed my trusted PA, Steve McGuire, to track down all the projects Ratio Architects took up. I knew I could blindly trust him and he lived up to my expectations, giving me a detailed report on the subject.“All have agreed to work with us except Edward Sterling
Andrea’s POV “Andrea, Michael has emailed you his resignation before leaving! Have you checked?” asked Roberta as I went through the terms and conditions of the Wells Group project. After all the deals went out of our hands, this was my only hope. It was obvious Zion was deliberately trying to force me to surrender to his wishes, but he had no idea about my patience. After raising the twins single-handedly since they were born, I had loads of it. I wasn’t the immature, reckless Andrea I used to be. However much he tried, I wouldn’t rise to the bait. Now, this fresh piece of news shattered my inner resolve. How could Michael backstab me? How could he leave Ratio now, when I needed him the most? “Are you sure? I have received no email from him yet.” Roberta looked uncomfortable while I gave her a suspicious look. No, there were no emails from Michael. “How do you know about this? Did he tell you he will leave Ratio?” I was now sure this was a joke. I trusted Michael even with my eyes
Andrea’s POVA sense of dread spread over my mind as I watched Mrs. Hamilton approach the door. No, I couldn’t face him. “Please deal with him, Kathy. Tell him I’m busy!” I dashed off towards Adrian’s room to avoid Zion at all costs. The therapist had completed his work and got up to leave. I could hear the main door close. So Zion had left! Granny Catherine was arranging Adrian’s duvet and cushions, so I followed the therapist out. “Call me if he faces any discomfort. Otherwise, I’ll come over after two days to check up on him.” “Thank you so much for coming over at such short notice.” He smiled and nodded at me.“It’s my job.” As we walked out of the room towards the main door, I froze at the sight of Zion, sitting in the living room, maybe waiting for me. What was he doing here? Didn’t he know I was busy? The therapist took his leave while I walked over to Zion, glaring at him all the while. “What brings you here, Zion? There is nothing to discuss. I’m busy!” I continued to glar
Andrea’s POV I felt relaxed, rested, and much better! The soft bed I was lying on didn’t seem mine! Where was I? I remembered falling unconscious in the office! After that, everything was hazy. I had no memory of anything whatsoever. Immediately I opened my eyes with a start as a feeling of dread clutched at my heart. I looked around the tastefully done-up room. Where was I? This wasn’t my room or Cromwell Mansion! With its neutral shades of beige, it looked more like a man’s bedroom. My heart constricted with fright. I dreaded accepting the obvious. Did Zion bring me over to his house? After all, he was the only one present near me when I lost consciousness. No, I had to escape. I didn’t want to stay here a second longer to confront him. My head swooned as I tried to get up. It was a futile effort, and I fell back on the bed. I knew I was burning with a fever, but I had to leave. If I stayed here, I would go crazy. I made repeated attempts at getting up on my feet. At last, I sto
Andrea’s POV There was excitement in the air as we drove down to Zion’s beachside villa in the Athenian Riviera. The twins and their pups couldn’t contain their exuberance. The prospect of meeting Zane and Angel after so long excited them beyond words. My pregnancy hormones had settled down and, apart from a little fatigue, I had no other symptoms of the first trimester. Zion took good care of me and employed lots of help to organize our dream wedding. Despite the short notice, I wasn’t stressed at all. Our event coordinator, Ms. Pappas, was extremely efficient and handled everything well. My wedding dress was perfect, just the way I wanted, and so was the decor. Despite my hectic work schedule, she completed every task effortlessly. Ever since she took over, even Zion could relax a lot. “Mom, when will Zane and Angel come over? Tomorrow?” asked Adrian hopefully. “No, after two days.” “Why can’t they come tomorrow? We’ll be bored,” said Zayden. “There’s so much to do, you won’t
Andrea’s POV The next morning, Zion took me to the gynecologist for a proper checkup. We found out I was two months pregnant! “How can that be possible when I felt no symptoms of pregnancy?” “Sometimes the only symptom is the missed monthly cycle. Since you have an irregular cycle, you might not have realized it. There might be subtle signs that you didn’t notice.” I nodded, agreeing with the doctor. “Yes, I had been a little preoccupied with work!” “It’s quite normal not to have symptoms. Don’t worry, the fetus is growing well. Follow the diet chart and folic acid supplements and you’ll be fine.” Zion released a sigh of relief and insisted I took the day off. With the twins at school and Zion at work, I was bored all morning. A call from Grandpa Vincent brought a smile to my lips. “So, how is everything going?” I smiled, knowing what he wanted to know. He wanted to know when we were planning our wedding! “Everything is fabulous here, Grandpa. The twins have settled down at s
Andrea’s POV The music slowed to a romantic number, and the twins walked away to watch a lighthouse near the coast. I wrapped my arms around Zion’s shoulders and swayed to the music. The temperatures had dipped after sunset, but the heat radiating from his body kept me warm. “This is what I wanted!” he whispered, planting a kiss on my neck as we caught a moment with one another. We were the only couple dancing on the deck. Anacá escaped Eros the moment the romantic music started. Although I was curious about what was going on between them, I kept mum. “This is the best part of the day!” I admitted, resting my head on his shoulders. His arm around me drew me closer, and it felt like bliss. The mesmerizing location, the gentle movement of the yacht as it cut across the bay, surging ahead, the moonlight above and the sparkling lights all around heightened my emotions. The day’s exhaustion diminished a little, and I felt better. “No, the best part is yet to come!” I looked up to see
Zion’s POV The entire week, I was busy planning our getaway to the Schinias Bay area on the eastern shores of Athens. I had been there almost twenty-five years ago when my mom was alive. The place was secluded then, but Eros informed me about the development of snorkeling activities around Nea Makri and the hidden bays of the Marathon Cape Area. He wanted to accompany us with Anacá, and Andrea willingly agreed. I didn’t mind too, as he was more knowledgeable than I was. “Are we going to the beach with Blaze, Chase, and their mom?” gasped Zayden in disbelief. Anacá’s pet golden retriever, Lucy, their mom, would obviously accompany us too since she never went out without her pet. “Yes, Uncle Eros and Aunt Anacá will accompany us also!” I added, making them grin. “I love the plan. You’re the coolest dad!” said Adrian. “I’m glad, buddy! Now help your mom pack up!” They rushed to the kitchen to force Andrea to pack while I smiled at their enthusiasm.Despite living in LA, it was surpr
Andrea’s POV Zion helped to expedite the shifting of Ratio Architects to Athens in twenty days. With his experience, the move happened so smoothly; I was impressed. “Mr. Lazarus will educate you about the work permits and visa process. I’ll see you at lunch.” I smiled, but couldn’t thank him for his efforts in front of his lawyer. After Zion left, I was extremely busy with the visa process. Afterward, I had a meeting with Mr. Aetos, the GM of ZC Architects, followed by a meeting with Mr. Barlos, the GM of Conrad. With both companies doing well, I was still considering a merger for ease of operation. I would have to consult Zion before making a final decision. My new PA, Cora Adamis, was an intern and fumbled with the work. As such, I missed my efficient PA, Roberta, back in LA. It was just a matter of a month. She would be here to handle my schedule like before. I couldn’t wait to connect with my old team of Ratio! We had grown into a family! Cora came in and handed me the folder
Andrea’s POV The next morning, I was in the brightest of spirits, eager to go to the twins’ school and then to the office. The twins were more excited than I was at the prospect of being alone at home. With their charm, they had Jenna and Melinda dancing to their tunes in such a brief span of time. Their pets were no less, and I panicked at the thought of the mayhem the quartet would create at home. “Don’t worry about them. It’s just a matter of a few days. When their school starts, they would need to leave with us.” I nodded, and we soon left. Zion’s eyes swept over the entire length of me and I blushed at his lust-filled scrutiny. I was still getting adjusted to this horny side of his nature that he had effectively kept hidden from me for so long. How? I had no idea!“Did you have to wear that skirt? I’m getting an erection just at the sight of you!” he chuckled as he drove on. I rolled my eyes at him, glancing down to check the bulge growing at an alarming rate. “Tomorrow onwar
Andrea’s POV I tucked the twins into bed and walked out of the room, only to find Blaze and Chase following me out as well. “Where do you think you’re going? It’s sleepy time for you too. Go, sleep!” They trotted off to their cots, disappointed that their playtime was over.At last, I heaved a sigh of relief and walked over to our bedroom, where Zion had been waiting for me for over an hour. Surely, he would be annoyed with me. I wondered what he had planned for us! I couldn’t wait to see. The moment I walked into the bedroom, Zion grunted with frustration. “I thought you were planning to sleep with Blaze and Chase tonight!” I chuckled as I closed the door. “They were planning to follow me here. I swear these pups have more energy than the twins.” I turned around and gasped to see him right in front of me. He picked my hand up and led me towards the coffee table in one corner. How had I not seen it before?It was decorated with heart-shaped balloons and a white drape over which lay
Andrea’s POV We walked hand in hand into the cozy café at the clubhouse. With the twins eager to start practice immediately after enrolment, we were free to enjoy ourselves. He led me to a corner seat, and we poured over the menu card, excited to be on an outing together. It wasn’t an outing in the actual sense of the term, but for me, it was like a surprise date with the man I loved. “What do you want to have?” I asked, only to find him gazing at me instead of the menu card. “You.” I blushed yet rolled my eyes. “I’m not available right now. Choose between coffee or drinks.” He groaned as if he didn’t know it already. “Shall we have a coffee date, then?” My heart skipped a beat on hearing something I was dying for. Yes, for the last seventeen years, I had been dying to go on a date with him. This time, as his fiancée, when I had started dreaming of a life together with him, he was abducted. “Are you sure? I don’t know if you want a date with me. You have always left me hanging!
Zion’s POV The water cascaded down our naked bodies as we stood wrapped up in each other’s arms under the shower. This was a dream I had been wanting to fulfill since the day I met her! I hadn’t expected it to be fulfilled after seventeen years when I had almost given up hope! My hands roamed freely on her delicate skin, feeling her curves. “Mine!” I whispered hoarsely as I trailed my mouth to her neck, her throat, and down to her breasts. My fingers inched towards her slick pu*sy and plunged in. “Oh! Zion, please!” She begged me to please her, but the pain in my leg disturbed me. I couldn’t do justice to my dreams in this position. “Let’s continue in the bathtub! It’s more comfortable!” She groaned when I released her, leading her toward the bathtub. I felt a little disappointed that I couldn’t please her the way I wanted to. “Are you in pain, Zion?” She turned to glance at my injury as she filled the tub. I wondered how she knew. “A little. It’ll be fine once we’re in the tub