Three months later.....The morning sun bathes our kitchen in a soft glow as I decide to whip up breakfast, the familiar routine grounding me in the comfort of our shared life. The scent of pancakes fills the air when, suddenly, a sensation unfamiliar sends a shiver down my spine. A warm rush, and I freeze.My water breaks."Jim!" I call, my voice betraying a mix of excitement and anxiety. In an instant, he's by my side, a mixture of concern and joy etched on his face.He guides me gently to the car, the anticipation of the imminent arrival of our little one palpable in the air. The drive to the hospital feels like a whirlwind of emotions, the rhythmic hum of the engine punctuated by the intensity of each contraction.Jim's reassuring presence grounds me as we navigate the hospital's corridors, the anticipation building with each step. The medical team takes charge, their efficiency a comforting backdrop to the rollercoaster of sensations enveloping me.The delivery room becomes a san
Anastasia's POV."Mom, please don't do this to me” I found myself screaming and crying, begging my mom not to leave me with my abusive father again because I knew that the possibility of making it out alive was very slim and, frankly speaking, I would just give up.My dad came out with a gun, pointed it at my head and told my mother that if she didn't leave immediately he was going to kill me, I was only 12.I hugged my mom one last time as she turned her back, and I head a gunshot! I squirmed in fear thinking I was going to die, but I examined myself and I could not see any blood, my gaze went straight to my mother and I could see the blood gush out from her back and she mouthed the word “run” to me.“She did not deserve to die like that” I mournedKendra pulled me into a tight hug as I kept mouthing the words “she did not deserve like that”Nights have been like this since Kendra and I moved in together, I would always wake up sobbing and weeping uncontrollably and Kendra would alwa
“Good morning” I greet Mr. Hemsworth, the owner of the coffeehouse I worked in.“Good morning” he said as he looked up from the papers he was working on, “How was your weekend?” He asks.“It was just what I needed to relax” I smile“Good because we need to make as many sales as we can, else we won't be able to keep this place open”“I'll do my best” I say and walk away to get started for the day.The bell dings as the first customer walks in, he is light skinned and of average height.“Can I get two cups of iced cappuccino, pretty lady?” He smiles.“Good morning, welcome to Jundas coffeehouse, two cups of iced cappuccinos coming right up” I smile dryly at his weak attempt to flirt“Thank you” he says as I hand it over to him“That'll be 10 bucks please”He hands me the money as he leaves the storeCustomers after customers and it was finally time for a break.I decide to take a walk to let the warm air hit my lungs and calm my body that has been taken over by stress, soon after my bre
It's finally time to close for the day, and I check the office to see Mr. Hemsworth working on some papers.“May I take my leave now?” I ask him from the door.“Yes, but before you do, I'm thinking of expanding this business and employing more workers” he says“That would be great sir, we could really use the hand around here.” I smile.“Do have a good night rest” he says as I head out.As I shut the door behind me, I turn to see an excited Stewart smiling at me with vibrant yellow rose flowers.“Hey, you scared me” I say in shock“Well I didn't mean to, sorry about that” Stewart says, handing me the bouquet of flowers. “I got this for you”“Thank you” I say as I collect the flowers and smell them, “it smells nice, thank you. Roses are my favorite” I smile.“Well, at least that makes up for scaring you, want to go for a ride with me?” He asks shyly.“Well, are you a kidnapper? Should I be scared?” I question.“There's only one way to find out, want to hop in?”“That's actually scary,
“Kendra we need to get up else we'll get fired” I say when I realize that it was already morning and Kendra and I had overslept“Alright, I'll be up in a jiffy, give me a little time to reboot my system” she yawns“Okay” I say as I stand up to brush my teeth and decide on making breakfastKendra finally gets up when I'm done brushing, and I decide to head to the kitchen to make breakfast.I decide on making waffles with hot chocolate for breakfast, and I get it done.“Well I'm exhausted, I wish I could just get some fucking ass money to employ cooks and get a bigger apartment” Kendra says as she walks into the kitchen“Well wishes aren't horses baby girl, they just don't come through, we've got this” I reply while I give her a plate of food.“We've got this” she smiles as she takes her plate of food from me and digs into it.“I just love waffles” Kendra says satisfyingly.“I better get dressed for work” I say, heading to my room and getting dressedI look at myself in the mirror and I
“How was work?” I ask an already dozing off Kendra laying on the couch.“Oh you're back, work was fine” she replies in a raspy voice which tells me she has been trying to stay awake a little longer“Kendra my dad called” I say, sitting on the sofa“Are you okay” she asks as her eyes turn wide with concern“I don't know if I can be okay knowing that my father has found me” I stutter“It's going to be okay, he won't be able to hurt you, I promise, I'll be here for you and so would your new friend and Joel will be there too” Kendra says, hugging me close to her chest like the moment she leaves me, I will be taken away.I sob silently into her chest as different thoughts races through my mind.“But what if he comes for me when I'm alone? And there's no one there to protect me?” I mutter.“He won't, trust me”I don't realize when I fall asleep, but the next day I wake up and Kendra is not home. I assume she has gone to work, so I decide to lock the doors and occupy myself with anything tha
I wake up on an overly comfortable bed and realize that it was not my bed, and it was not my home. My eyes shoot open in fear that he has found me, and I look around to see Joel and Kendra sleeping on one of the chairs and Stewart on the other side.Then the memories of last night comes running back to my head and I realize “they know my secret” they know about my panic attacks and maybe Joel finally knows about my family. I close my eyes hoping I could reset the night and change the question that landed me in this hospital bed, but of course, my brain decides to do the opposite. To remind me of the exact reactions of everybody, and I sit up.I decide to take a picture of my new family, as seeing them wanting to be there for me just fills my heart with warmth and love.The doctor walks in and the sound of the door disrupts everyone's sleep and I could see the excitement in Kendra's eyes that said, "you didn't give up on me” and I smile back at her.The doctor walks over to me saying “
Jim's POV“So how many times do I need to make you understand we can't run both businesses in this manner, one of us has to leave the country to be able to take care of the other company in New York, and I'm not ready to leave, so it has to be you” I yell at Jonathan, my elder brother, but he seems unbothered by my shouts.“Just because you've been introduced into the Dan Business does not give you the entitlement to ever speak to me in that manner. If you want me to hear whatever you have to say, then you need to get rid of the attitude because you can't keep talking to me in that manner” Jonathan says calmly and walks away from the office.“What does he mean that I should speak to him calmly? The business would literally fall down if he doesn't take charge and all he cares about is my attitude and tone. I should have been the elder son and maybe then would I have been in charge of the businesses” I yell across the empty room trying to pour out my frustrationI leave the office and h
Three months later.....The morning sun bathes our kitchen in a soft glow as I decide to whip up breakfast, the familiar routine grounding me in the comfort of our shared life. The scent of pancakes fills the air when, suddenly, a sensation unfamiliar sends a shiver down my spine. A warm rush, and I freeze.My water breaks."Jim!" I call, my voice betraying a mix of excitement and anxiety. In an instant, he's by my side, a mixture of concern and joy etched on his face.He guides me gently to the car, the anticipation of the imminent arrival of our little one palpable in the air. The drive to the hospital feels like a whirlwind of emotions, the rhythmic hum of the engine punctuated by the intensity of each contraction.Jim's reassuring presence grounds me as we navigate the hospital's corridors, the anticipation building with each step. The medical team takes charge, their efficiency a comforting backdrop to the rollercoaster of sensations enveloping me.The delivery room becomes a san
It’s been two weeks since Jim proposed, and we finally decided to get married.Our families are present here in New Zealand, and my growing stomach a revelation to the family that were about to build together.Jim’s mother and my father insisted that the wedding be done in one of the biggest churches…It’s a night to the wedding and I’ve been too eager to sleepAs the night wraps its comforting arms around us, Kendra and I find ourselves in a room, surrounded by the soft glow of fairy lights. The air is filled with a mix of excitement and tranquility, a prelude to the significant day that awaits us tomorrow, my wedding day."Anastasia, can you believe it's finally here? Your wedding day! I mean if we were to have this conversation years back, there’s no way I would have believed that you’re going to get married before me, but here you are sissy, and I can’t lie, I am so proud of you and of how far you have come in this journey of life, despite the setbacks… I’m always rooting for you,
We freshen up, the anticipation of an evening of elegance and gastronomy adding an extra beat to our hearts.In the soft glow of our bedroom, Jim and I stand facing our wardrobe, selecting the perfect attire for our evening at Le Paragon. I run my fingers over the silky fabric of a deep burgundy dress."What do you think of this one?" I ask Jim, contemplating my choice of outfitJim, a black suit in hand, smiles appreciatively, "it’s Stunning princess, It'll complement the ambiance of the restaurant perfectly.""And what about you, Mr. Dan? Going for the classic black?""Always a safe bet, don't you think?" He teasesAs I slip into the dress, Jim takes a step back, his eyes reflecting admiration."You look incredible, Anastasia." Jim compliments.And the one thing about Jim is that he never forgets to compliment me…. He never forgets."Thank you, Jim. Now, let's make sure you're equally dashing." I say, blushing.We share a moment of laughter as Jim adjusts his tie, the meticulous car
The soft hues of dawn filter through the curtains, coaxing us into wakefulness. As I open my eyes, Jim stirs beside me, his gaze meeting mine in the gentle morning light."Good morning my Prince Charming.""Morning, beautiful." Jim yawns“How was your night?” I ask“It was good, slept like a baby and that’s only possible when I’m with you” Jim replies, making me smile.Our dialogue begins, setting the tone for the day ahead. The idea of a relaxing morning unfolds, and a spark of spontaneity lights up our conversation."What if we start the day with something different? How about a soak in the hot tub?" I suggest"That sounds like a fantastic idea. Let's do it." Jim saysOur dialogue turns into a playful exchange as we make our way to the inviting warmth of the hot tub. The bubbles swirl around us, and the aroma of fresh coffee mingles with the crisp morning air."This is bliss. We should do this more often. Plus it’s so relaxing for myself and for the baby” I say."Agreed. It's the pe
“So pretty, what do you have for me?” Jim asks and I rest against his chest,"Jim, do you ever think about how we got here? It feels surreal." I ask"Absolutely, princess. Remember the uncertainties at the beginning? Now, look at us.""The twists and turns were worth it. This place, this moment, it's a testament to us." I say, my mind racing back to the memories that we shared together.Jim's fingers trace patterns on my back, his touch a silent acknowledgment of the intimacy between us."Every step led us to this. From uncertainty to a haven far from everything." Jim says and I smile because I know it’s true.So much uncertainty from the beginning, but we never gave up on each other, we we’re always with each other, every step of the way, despite the situations that embraced us."It's like we're in a different world here." I say, and I’m happy about it"Our world, away from it all."The dialogue dances between us, revisiting milestones and deepening our connection."Our shared advent
“Oh no!” I say, squealing in excitement.“Do you think you’re ready to spend the rest of your life with me?” Jim asks“I’m ready to spend the rest of my life with you Jim, I’m so happy…. I really am” I say, and I’m unaware of the time the tears flow out of my eyesI give him my finger and he inserts the ring into it, the warm arm and the setting sun bathes the landscape in warm hues, casting a golden glow over our skin, sealing this moment in the skies.“I love you my princess” Jim says, placing a soft kiss on my head, and he uses his fingers to wipe the tears out of my cheeks.“This is a testament of our love and the love that has sealed is even till this very moment” Jim says“I love you so much Jim, thank you for making my life brighter” I say, tears streaming down my faceHe engulfs me in his warm embrace “it’s okay princess” he whispersAs we walk hand in hand, the sand beneath our feet tells tales of our leisurely stroll along the beach. The setting sun paints the sky in hues of
Touching down in New Zealand, the air carries a crisp freshness that hints at the natural wonders awaiting exploration. As we disembark, the airport buzzes with a mix of languages, creating a vibrant tapestry of cultures.Jim grins, his excitement contagious. “Anastasia, welcome to New Zealand! Ready for the adventure of a lifetime?”I mirror his enthusiasm, feeling the thrill of being in a new land. “Absolutely, Jim! The air here is invigorating.”We gather our belongings, exchanging glances that echo the shared anticipation of discovering this picturesque destination. The airport becomes a stage for our initial impressions and conversations about the cultural nuances we notice.The car that has been assigned waits at the entrance and we place our luggage into the car.Arriving at our vacation house, the car door swings open, revealing the picturesque landscape surrounding our temporary home. Jim takes a moment to absorb the scenery. "Anastasia, can you believe this view?"I join him
As we step into the bustling airport, the air is charged with the anticipation of the journey ahead. We navigate through the check-in process, ensuring our bags are properly weighed and boarding passes in hand. The familiar hum of airports surrounds us, a symphony of travelers embarking on their own adventures.After completing the necessary procedures, we make our way to the gate. The overhead announcement signals the impending departure, adding a sense of urgency to our steps. Jim, ever the calm presence, leads the way, his hand reassuringly intertwined with mine.As we board the airplane, I expect the familiar rows of seats that define economy class. However, to my delightful surprise, Jim directs us towards the front of the plane, first class. The realization dawns on me, and my eyes widen in astonishment. "Jim, is this...?"He grins, "A little upgrade for a more comfortable journey. Thought we could use some extra pampering."My heart swells with gratitude, and I can't help but
The next morning, the sun rises on a day filled with final preparations. Conversations about the excitement ahead punctuate the air as we pack our bags and double-check our checklist.As we descend the stairs, the sight of Jonathan in the living room catches us off guard, his eyes lighting up in welcome."Morning, you two! Ready for the journey ahead?" Jonathan exclaims, a cheerful grin on his face."Absolutely," Jim replies, mirroring Jonathan's enthusiasm. "What's the plan?"Kendra joins the conversation from the kitchen, "I thought we'd start the day with a hearty breakfast to fuel up for the trip."Anastasia chimes in, "Sounds like a plan. But Jonathan, any hints on what you're up to today?"Jonathan winks playfully, "Ah, that's a secret for now. But trust me, it'll be a day to remember."As we gather around the table, conversations flow effortlessly. Jim and Jonathan exchange stories from their childhood, reminiscing about shared experiences that evoke laughter and camaraderie. K