Adele’s PovJay talked excitedly as we headed to school that morning.It was his last day at the school and he was excited about it, and about a lot of things.I had sat him down the day we returned and explained to him that we would be moving to Fresno soon, and I was going to get married and he was going to have a new Dad.He had jumped for joy. I was glad he hadn’t remembered how hostile my family had been. Maybe in time my family would accept him. But I was more concerned with the Richards family. Chris and Zoey seemed nice, but what about Dan? Would he accept to be a father to Jay?“Mommy! Mommy,! Are you listening?” He asked impatiently.His small voice jolted me out of my thoughts.“Yeah honey?”“What is my new daddy like?” He asked for the hundredth time.“He is nice.” I stammered.“When can I meet him?”“When we get to Fresno.”I breathed a sigh of relief as we reached his school and I kissed him goodbye.I would be free from answering questions for a while.Since I wasn’t wo
Adele's Pov Chris Richards smiled at me. “Well since you live here I guess I came to see you.” He said. “Wait, how did you know where I live?” “You told us the name of the interior design company you work for at dinner the other day. So it wasn’t hard. I had a little trouble because I was looking for Adele Turner instead of Clair Taylor. You took your mom's name?” “Yes. Sorry if it made thing difficult.” “That’s okay.” He looked down the long corridor. “This is a very nice corridor but I would prefer to come in.” I flushed in embarrassment and stood aside to let him in. “Your son is asleep?” He asked looking round the untidy room. I nodded. “Sorry for the mess I was packing.” I guessed why he had come and decided to go straight to the point. “I know why you are here. It is because of the photo that’s all over the net. I am really sorry. I never meant to embarrass you and it isn’t what you think but it doesn’t matter. Your son deserves better. All I ask is
“No way!” Dan exclaimed. “I am not marrying that whore! What the hell are you thinking dad? A photo of her kissing some random asshole is all over social media and you expect me to just forget about it, act like nothing happened and marry her? No fucking way!” “I am not asking you to marry her son.” Chris Richards said patiently. “I am telling you to marry her!” “But why? Why are you so determine for me to marry into this family? And why her? She has a kid and is a whore. Why not her sister instead?” “I am not arguing with you Dan. Do as you are told and stop complaining.” “But Dan has a point Dad.” Zoey, who had been watching them argue, said. “This photo tells us the kind of person she is. Marrying her would be a mistake.” “I didn’t ask your opinion Zoey!” Chris snapped. “ And it was your party that caused all this.” “No it wasn’t. I only invited her over to be nice. I didn’t expect her to start acting a slut.” “Enough! Adele Turner is going to be my daughter in- law
Adele’s Pov It was my wedding day. I was in my bedroom with a professional makeup artist and hairstylist, both of whom were getting me ready to walk down the aisle. “You look really amazing!” The makeup artist said after she was done. She held a mirror in front of me so I could confirm it. I nodded. “Yes.” I said quietly. “Now it is my turn.” The hairstylist, who had been patiently waiting for her to finish, said coming forward. She styled my hair then held the mirror in front of me again. I was stunned to see how different I looked. “I look really good. Thank you.” I said and meant it. Both women surveyed me proudly. They had done a great job, not surprising considering the huge sum they were being paid, thanks to Chris who had a spent a fortune on the wedding without blinking. Jay skipped into the room. He had been downstairs with Marie. He stopped when he saw me and a smile lit up his handsome face. “You look really beautiful mommy. Just like a princess.”
Adele’s Pov. “What is wrong with you?” I asked shaking with fear. His cold, hate filled eyes scared me. “Shut up!” He leaned over me and reached for my dress. “Stop! Dan please!” I screamed. This wasn’t what I had expected on my honeymoon night. “Shut up you whore! You think you can make a fool of me again like last time? You have given it to enough guys. Now it’s my turn!” I cried and struggled while he tried to rip off my dress. From the crazy look in his eyes and the huge ball in his pants, I knew if I let him have his way I won’t walk for a week. We struggled like sworn enemies. He was determine, I was desperate. Looking at us no one would believe we were a newlywed couple on our honeymoon night. My struggle seemed to turn him on. Then he grabbed my throat with one hand and squeezed it until I became dizzy. If I was scared before I was now terrified. I didn’t know how far he would go, so I stopped struggling. He ripped my dress right in the middle. His eyes lit up e
Breakfast that morning was awkward. They sat across each other in the hotel restaurant, pretending to concentrate on their food as a way to avoid looking or talking to each other. Dan had spent all morning racking his brain, trying to remember what had happened last night. He had awaken from a deep sleep with a hangover and no memory of anything. When he’d knocked on the bathroom door he had assumed Adele was in there taking a shower, but when he had seen her torn dress, wild hair , bruised neck, and frightened eyes he knew he had done something wrong. This wasn’t the first time he had been drunk and violent. It had happened may times before. Thanks to the power of Chris Richards it had been hushed up. But he had never attacked a woman. Now he had attacked a woman who was now his wife and on their wedding day. He had a lot of questions but was scared to ask. He didn’t want to hear the answers. He had to get this problem under control. He had done it once he would do it again,
Adele’s pov Dad was standing in the living room staring out the window when I came to get the last bag. “That bitch needs to mind her own business.” He said angrily. I knew he was talking about Rachel. “She is. I am her business. She cares about me, unlike some people I know.” I said bitterly. He ignored the remark. “We need to talk.” He said. “If you are going to talk about my son then don’t! He isn’t going anywhere.” “Calm down. Okay fine. You and Dan can sort it out.” He lowered his voice. “ All I need from you right now is to make Dan really fall for you. I hope you made a good impression last night?” He smirked.. Last nights horror suddenly flashed before me and I felt sick and angry. I turned away from him. “I can’t do this with you right now Dad.” I said struggling to control my emotions. “You are right. Walls have ear. Just keep making him happy. We will talk soon.” He saw himself out. I tried to calm myself, then took the bag and headed upstairs. As I cl
Adele’s Pov I sank into an armchair and buried my face in my hands. How the hell had I ended up with this cold, cruel, son of a bitch? Well at least he hadn’t tried to force himself on me, yet. I sighed and went to the kitchen to see if they was any food. The fridge was stocked, thanks to Rachel. I made lunch and went to wake Jay. We ate lunch then explored the house. It had six bedrooms, a large living room, kitchen, library and study, a gym, and swimming pool. Jay loved the swimming pool, but I made him promise not to go near it till he had gotten swimming lessons. I also made a note to install a mini playground for him. Dinner was just the two of us. Dan was locked away in his room, I guessed he was drinking again. It scared me but I told myself he was just responding to the stress of the whole wedding. It wasn’t a habit, I tried to convince myself. “Why isn’t daddy eating with is?” Jay asked at dinner. “He is asleep. He’s so tired.” I said evasively. “Can I go se
They turned. Adele was standing at the door. “What do I have to be told?” She asked looking from Chris to Rachel. “That i got the DNA result changed to confuse the cops.” Chris said quickly. Adele knew instantly she was being lied to. “Is that so?” She asked. “Yeah,” Chris said, “well now you know I better get going. Bye.” “Are you going to tell me what that was really about?” Adele asked Rachel after Chris walked out. “Chris told you already.” “Rachel, what is going on?” “Nothing. Come on let's not keep Jay waiting.” Still frowning suspiciously, Adele followed her to the living room. ** Dan was getting back into his car when Chris pulled into the car park. “Dad! I've been to the house Zoey told me you were here; I'm just coming from your office. Your secretary said you hadn't come in yet.” “Yeah, I stopped at your house. I was about to call you. I wanted to see you.” They rode the elevator to his office. “What's going on with Craig? Why was he arrested for Hal's mur
Chris was still in his office trying to make sense of his discovery, when his thoughts where interrupted by his ringing cell phone. He frowned when he saw Zoey was the one calling. “Hello? Slow down Zoey I can’t understand you, Craig has what? Arrested? Why?” He sighed. “I am on my way.” He called his lawyer and asked him to go to the police station, then went to join them. He first spoke to the cops, before he was taking to see Craig. “Dad! Tell this your dumbass lawyer to get me the fuck out of here.” Craig said angrily. “I haven't done anything wrong.” The lawyer rolled his eyes. Chris asked to speak to Craig alone and the room was emptied. “Get me the fuck out of here dad! Now!” “The cops said you were seen a few times, going to Hal Daniel’s room.” Chris said ignoring him. “What is the big deal? He is my friend. We have known each other from college.” “Before or after you dropped out and started being a pain in my ass?” Chris snapped. “Dad!” “If he is your
“Dad, do you have something to do with this?” Dan asked Chris when the detective had left. “Me? Of course not.” Chris said. “Really? Because I noticed you didn't show any surprise when the result was read.” Rachel said suspiciously. “Because I knew in my heart Adele was innocent.” “Really? Or is it because you did something like forging the result.” “Stop it Rachel. I didn't do anything. I swear.” “But this doesn't make any sense.” Adele said confused, “Hal is Jay’s father. I am sure of it.” Chris shrugged. “Well maybe there was a mistake with the DNA. Anyway, forget it. You are off the hook. The cops can look elsewhere for their suspect.” He stood up. “I have to go, see you guys later and don't worry about anything, I have it handled.” “Sure you do,” Rachel sneered. Chris left grinning. “He changed the results,” Rachel said, “I know him too well.” “Why won’t he admit it?” Adele asked. “Because he wants to keep you in the dark. So you don't get into trouble if he gets caug
Zoey was on the phone as she entered the dining room. “-I am glad you are okay. Don’t worry Dad will make sure everything is okay…yeah, I read the news on the blog, don’t worry they can only talk, everything will be fine. Don’t mention it, take care.” She hung up giggling. Craig, who was at the dining table picking at his food. looked at her suspiciously. “What is going on?” He asked. “I read Adele was arrested, then I read she wasn’t but was only invite for questioning. What’s the truth?” “The first one. The second is Dad trying to do damage control.” She laughed sitting down. “Spill, what is going on?” He asked impatiently. “Adele was arrested for Hal Daniels murder.” “Why?” He asked alarmed. “The murder weapon was found hidden in her office.” “Shit! Seriously?” “Yeah. The cops want to run a DNA test on her kid. For some reason they think Hal is the dad, which may give a motive. Crazy right?” She noticed Craig looked scared. “What's wrong?” “Nothing.” “Don’t
Dan watched helplessly as Adele was taken away by the police. “What the hell is going on! A gun in the office?” Zoey asked shocked. Dan didn’t answer. He rushed out and almost ran to Chris’ office. Zoey was right behind him. Hee burst in, startling Chris. “Dad the cops have arrested Adele!” “When? Why” Chris asked standing up quickly. “Just now. They found a gun in her office! I know she is being framed. We have to call a lawyer!” “A gun?” “Yes. The one used to kill Hal Daniels. We have to do something!” Dan insisted. “Calm down, I’m on it now.” He called his lawyer and picked up his coat. “Let’s go, the lawyer will meet us there.” He told Dan. “I am coming too.” Zoey said. “No. It’s okay, you stay here.” Chris said. She watched them walk into the elevator, then when the door closed, she began laughing. Yes! It had been so easy to plant the gun. She had waited until she saw Adele leave for a meeting, then she snuck in and put the gun behind the filling cabinet, before m
Adele's PovAter Zoey left, I sat staring at the blank screen of my computer. In my mind I was going over what I would tell Dan this evening. I wanted to tell him the truth without upsetting him so much. I sat there for hours, worrying and sweating. I wondered if my dad had heard about what had happened. I didn't think so because Chris had made sure the press kept my name out of it, but even if I had been arrested and sentenced to death, I knew my dad won’t care. He was still mad at me. My phone rang and I nearly jumped out of my chair. “Calm down,” I told myself as I picked up the phone. It was Dan. “Babe I am stuck in a meeting, you’ll have to have lunch without me. Sorry about that.” He said. “It’s okay, I understand. I love you.” “Love you too, see you later.” I hung up and swallowed nervously. I knew he couldn’t wait for this evening, but i was dreading it. I was happy he couldn’t take me to lunch because I wasn’t even thinking of food. The thought of it made me ill. I was
Zoey stared at the note. There was no return address. She turned it over and saw an address written on the back. The address looked familiar but she wasn’t sure. Then she looked at the key. It was clearly a key to a storage unit. That’s it! The address was a storage unit. Was this some stupid prank? Or was it for real? Whatever the case, who was responsible? Chris? Or maybe Craig? She put the note and key back in the envelope and put them in her drawer, but she kept thinking about it. If it was for real and would put Adele in jail, and maybe even destroy Dan, why not? But she had to be careful. If Chris found out she was still plotting he would throw her out for good. She went home for lunch, hoping Craig would be at home. She wanted to ask his advice without giving too much away. She found him slumped in a chair, staring into space, biting him lower lip. He jumped startled when she called his name. “What the fuck is wrong with you?” She asked annoyed. For the past few days Cr
“Are you sure you want to come in today?” Dan asked Adele the next morning, as she stepped out of the shower. “I do. I have gotten over the shock of yesterday. I am fine.” He nodded but he wasn’t convinced. Everything wasn’t fine. In his office yesterday he had thought about Adele’s story and it didn’t make sense. If Hal wasn’t able to attend the meeting, why didn’t Adele let his company know? They could have sent someone else. Driving all the way to see him was suspicious, he remembered the way she had looked when he had come into her office, the afternoon she’d first met Hal. Dan had guessed something was wrong but she denied it. He was so worried that he went to meet his Dad. Chris was on the phone when he came in so he waited. “The news has already gone round about the murder.” Chris said when he hung up. “I’m going to make sure I keep Adele’s name out of it.” “Don’t you think it’s strange?” Dan asked. “No. It was a public place, and the victim works for a big compan
Adele's Pov. I was still sitting in the hotel lobby, when Dan rushed in with Chris behind him. “Are you okay babe? Are you alright? What happened?” He asked anxiously. I had called him five minutes ago, as soon as I'd managed to pull myself together. I had almost fainted after seeing Hal on the bed, a bullet hole in his chest. My scream had attracted a passing housekeeper who rushed in, and when she saw the body, led me to the lobby, then called the cops. I was still shaking and scared as Dan hugged me. “I am fine. Really.” I said. “What where you doing here honey?” Dan asked. “Yeah, why are you here? What is going on?” Chris asked. I stared at them, tongue tied. I hadn’t thought about what I would say when this question was asked. “I found a dead body. Hal Daniel’s body in his hotel room.” I stammered. “Yeah but why were you there?” Chris asked. “He asked me to come and talk about the contract.” I said. “In his room?” Chris asked confused. “Yeah he said he