Zeke's POVWe boarded our different cars and they trailed off after me. I decided to make a stop at the mall to get what the kids would need. As we entered the mall, Zane and Fletcher followed me closely as we made our way through the aisles, searching for the perfect items for the kids.“Alright, boys, let's get down to business.” I declared with a grin, scanning the shelves for anything that might catch my eye. The excitement of shopping was different.I was shopping for my kids and the woman who made my heart flutter. Zane and Fletcher exchanged a knowing look before diving into the racks of clothes and shelves of toys with gusto. “Hey, Fletcher, since you're such a ladies' man, maybe you should be the expert on kids too.” Zane teased, holding up a tiny onesie with a playful smirk. “You can learn a thing or two from Zeke here before your own little bundle of joy arrives.”Fletcher rolled his eyes, feigning offense at the suggestion. “Please, I'll have you know that I am a natura
Ellen's POVAs I groggily opened my eyes to the soft light filtering through the curtains, my mind slowly emerging from the depths of sleep, I reached for my phone on the nightstand. I unlocked the screen and my heart sank as I read the message from Martha the maid I planted at Zeke's place.Mr. Reid is in town, but did not sleep at home.A sense of unease settled over me like a heavy fog as I assimilated the information. Where could Zeke have gone? What could have kept him away all night?As I sat up to gather my thoughts and make sense of the situation, the realization dawned on me with a jolt of apprehension. Zeke never slept out. It simply wasn't his style. The only time he stayed away from home overnight was when he was out of the country, and even then, he would use his private jet to return home as quickly as possible.So where could he have gone? And why hadn't he returned home?A thousand possibilities raced through my mind, each one more troubling than the last. Had he been
Kamille's POVAs I woke up, grogginess clouded my mind, my thoughts immediately turning to Royer. I gave him an affectionate pat before dragging myself out of bed to clean him up and ensure he had enough food.Once Royer was sorted, I tended to myself, moving through the morning routine in a haze. The next thing was to check in with Amanda and Belle. I dialed Amanda's number. “Hey Amy. How are you all holding up? Have the kids eaten?” I asked, my voice etched with concern.“Hey girl. We're good and are on our way to the hospital.” She revealed. “That's good.” I replied, releasing a breath I didn't notice I was holding.“For breakfast, Zeke sent a private chef over.” She added, her tone filled with gratitude for his thoughtful gesture. “Alright then. I'll be expecting you guys soon.” I replied, then we hung up.In that fleeting moment of reflection, I couldn't help but marvel at Zeke's meticulous care. Despite his usual fussing yesterday, his unwavering support and consideration for
Zeke's POVI watched as Tyris giggled and babbled excitedly about her toys, I couldn't help but smile. Her joy was infectious, filling the room with warmth and laughter.Zane and Fletcher were easy going with Kamille and her friends. The atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming. Moments like these make me realize how far I've come.Growing up as an only child, I often felt isolated and lonely. My parents' strict upbringing left little room for friendships, and I struggled to connect with others. But now, surrounded by their happy laughter and chatter, I feel a sense of belonging that I have always longed for my entire life.For the first time, I felt like I've found my place in this world, like I'm part of something greater than myself. At that moment, surrounded by so much love, I felt complete.I turned just in time to notice Zane's lingering gaze on Belle. She was engaged to be married. Whatever Zane's plans were, he would have to suspend it or kill it.She was off-limits, and I woul
Kamille's POV As Zeke left, I couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment wash over me. I was happy everything was going well. Except for Belle's sullen attitude.Turning to Belle, I couldn't shake the feeling that something was amiss. “Are you really okay?” I asked, my voice filled with concern.Belle met my gaze with a reassuring smile. “Yeah, I'm fine.” She replied, though there was a hint of weariness in her eyes.With a nod of acceptance, I chose not to press further. Belle was strong and capable, and I trusted that she would confide in me if she needed to.“How bout I drop the kids off in school, while you stay here with Royer?” She suggested.I felt a surge of gratitude. It was a small gesture, but it meant the world to me. “Thank you so much Belle. Zeke had some security ready to follow them to school, but with you there I'm most grateful.” I smiled.“It's alright Kamille.” She smiled back. I turned towards the kids. “Time for school guys.” I said hoping to get excited squ
Ellen's POV As I sat in the car, I remained lost in my own thoughts. My mind was still consumed with thoughts of what Liz had said.Was Liz truly losing her mind, fractured by the turnout of events? I couldn't deny the chill that ran down my spine at the thought, the hairs on the back of my neck standing on end as I considered the possibility of Kamille's vengeful spirit lurking in the shadows, biding its time until it could exact its revenge upon us.But no such things exist. Kamille's spirit was dead with her and there is nothing that could be done to change that. I turned to Ava who had positioned herself at the extreme corner, away from me.“Why are you there?” I asked, my tone unconvincingly calm and gentle.“Uhhh…. Nothing Ma'am.” Ava stuttered as she repositioned her glasses to suit her eyes better.“Good.” I replied. Suddenly the ringing of my phone startled me.Ava, my assistant hesitated for a moment, clearly taken aback by the tense atmosphere in the car, before tentativel
Kamille's POVGlancing at the clock, I realized that time was running late, and I needed to prepare the promised cookies for the kids before they returned from school. But who to look after Royer was my concern. Belle was not yet back, Zeke too had not appeared since he left with his friends. I felt an urge to call Zeke tug at me. He may say he's busy. I reasoned, and I didn't want to burden him with unnecessary concerns.Instead, I reached for my phone and dialed Belle's number. “Hello bestie.” I greeted warmly as she answered the phone. “I hope I'm not interrupting anything, but please I could use a bit of help.”“Hello Kam. It's fine.” She replied. “What do you need?” She asked.“I'll send it to you. Just a couple of items I'll need for the cookies.” I replied.“Alright Kam. I'll be there soon.” She replied warmly.“Thank you so much, Belle.” I expressed, genuine appreciation coloring my voice. “I really appreciate your help.”“It's no problem at all Kam.” Belle reassured me, he
Zeke's POV I watched as Kamille took the cookies out of the oven and waited for a few more seconds before turning to face me. But even as she turned her eyes were everywhere but on me.“I will be going then. I just wanted to see you and be sure you are good.” I said, my eyes not leaving her as I watched her every movement.“Okay, Zeke.” She replied, raising her head to me but still avoiding my eyes.I walked out of the kitchen. The tension that clung to the air was suffocating, so I adjusted my necktie to give me a little breathing space.As I walked outside, my mind twirled as it replayed the last few hours since I arrived at the penthouse. Fuck! What was I thinking?Was I too forward? Was she still angry with me? Or was it the damn oven that chimed at the wrong time? I tried to make sense of what could have gone wrong. But I was definitely sure that she felt the same way I did. She kissed me back, she grabbed my hair, and she felt it too. Arriving outside, I heard the door slam s