Chapter 26*Scarlett's POV*The time had come to go home, and despite Alexander's text asking us to leave earlier, I didn't want to go home with him. So, I hailed a cab and headed straight home."Mom!" My children ran to me as soon as I stepped inside. Oh, how much I missed them.I kissed them on their cheeks, suddenly feeling like a bad mom as I realized how distant I had been. It wasn't just about my relationship with Alexander; it had been like this ever since I started my new job. I had been neglecting them.It had been a month since we moved into this new house, and I was glad to see how happy they were here. They were also enjoying their new school, which Tonia had enrolled them in since their previous school was far away."Mom, you've been working really late these days," Riley said, and I smiled sadly."Yes, I have, and I'm really sorry about that," I said, gently patting her hair. But instead of looking upset, she smiled widely."Of course not, Mom. We're just worried about y
Chapter 27Alexander's POVI watched as Scarlett lay beside me, her breath ragged and her body still trembling from our heated encounter. The room was filled with a haze of desire and the scent of our passion. But as I looked at her, my heart clenched with a mixture of longing and frustration.We had just finished having another round of sex.I shouldn't be feeling this way. I shouldn't be losing myself to her, to the woman who was supposed to be my enemy. She was the one who had betrayed me, who had deceived me with her lies and manipulations. Yet, here I was, unable to resist her pull, drawn to her like a moth to a flame.I closed my eyes and tried to steady my racing heart. I needed to remind myself of the truth, of the reasons why I should hate her. But every time I looked at her, all I could see was her beauty, her vulnerability, and the way she made me feel alive.I should be cold, distant, and unaffected. That was the persona I had crafted for myself over the years. Emotions we
Chapter 28Scarlett's POVI slowly opened my eyes, the morning sunlight streaming through the window, casting a warm glow over the room. As my senses awakened, I reached out, expecting to feel Alexander's presence beside me. But my hand found only an empty space, cold and devoid of his touch.Confusion washed over me as I sat up in bed, searching the room for any sign of him. It was as if he had vanished into thin air. Questions swirled in my mind, and a knot formed in the pit of my stomach. Where had he gone? Why did he leave without a word?A sense of unease settled over me as I swung my legs over the side of the bed, slipping my feet into my slippers. I needed to find him, to understand what was happening. My mind raced with possibilities, my heart torn between hope and fear.As I made my way towards the door, the familiar creak of the floorboards seemed louder than usual. Each step felt heavy with uncertainty, mirroring the weight in my heart. I couldn't shake the feeling that som
Chapter 29Scarlett's POVAs Katrina's greeting lingered in the air, I stood there, feeling a mix of confusion and discomfort. Alexander whispered something to her, triggering a shift in her demeanor. A realization flashed across her face, and I could see a newfound confidence replacing her previous confusion.With a coy smile, Katrina took Alexander's hand and led him away towards his room. I watched their retreating figures, an inexplicable ache forming in my chest. It was as if I had been left behind, cast aside and forgotten in an instant.As they disappeared from view, a heavy silence settled over the house. I stood there, feeling invisible, as if I had become a mere spectator in my own life. Part of me wanted to storm after them, to demand answers, but another part held me back. Fear, uncertainty, and a profound sense of vulnerability kept my feet rooted to the floor.Hours turned into minutes, and minutes turned into an agonizing eternity. I could hear faint laughter and the oc
Chapter 30*Scarlett's POV*"Just someone I met during my jog," I replied, my tone nonchalant. I watched his expression, searching for any signs of jealousy or regret, but his face remained stoic, unreadable.Alexander released his grip on my arm, a flicker of emotion crossing his features. "I see," he muttered, his gaze dropping to the floor. There was a palpable tension between us, the weight of unspoken words hanging heavily in the air.Not wanting to prolong the interaction, I decided to take control of the situation. "Well, it was nice bumping into you, but I have things to attend to," I said, my voice tinged with a hint of finality. Without waiting for a response, I turned and continued walking, determined to distance myself from the confusion and pain that had consumed us.Days turned into weeks, and weeks turned into months. The wounds inflicted by my failed relationship with Alexander slowly began to heal, thanks in part to the newfound friendship I had forged with Aaron. We
Chapter 31*Scarlett's POV*As the morning light streamed through the curtains, we woke up, our bodies still intertwined, the remnants of our passion lingering in the air. I looked into Alexander's eyes, seeing a mix of tenderness and devotion that warmed my heart."Scarlett," he whispered, his voice filled with a newfound vulnerability. "I never want to let you go again. I can't imagine my life without you."A smile graced my lips as I caressed his cheek, feeling a surge of love and gratitude. "And I never want to leave your side, Alexander. We've been through so much, but I believe in us. I believe in our love."He pulled me closer, his arms wrapping around me possessively yet gently. "We'll face whatever challenges come our way, together. Nothing will tear us apart again."In that moment, as we lay there, our bodies intertwined and our souls entwined, I felt a renewed sense of hope and possibility. Our past may have been marred by pain and misunderstandings, but we were determined
Chapter 32**Alexander's POV**As I sat in my study, reflecting on the past weeks, a whirlwind of emotions swirled within me. It seemed like only yesterday that I had stumbled upon Scarlett and Aaron together, igniting a fire of jealousy and longing within my heart. The pain of witnessing them together had been unbearable, but it had also forced me to confront my true feelings for Scarlett.In the days that followed, I had struggled to understand the depth of my emotions. The walls I had built around my heart after our painful separation began to crumble as I spent more time with her, getting to know her on a deeper level. Her kindness, resilience, and unwavering support had captivated me, pulling me back into the depths of love that I had buried for so long.When Scarlett confronted me about my anger, I realized that it was not simply jealousy that consumed me. It was fear, fear of losing her again, fear of being vulnerable and opening my heart to the possibility of hurt. But her unw
Chapter 33*Alexander's POV*My gaze was fixated on her enticing figure, completely captivated by her nakedness. I couldn't help but take my time, savoring every curve and contour of her body as she lay there, exuding a seductive allure."Are you going to join me or just stand there?" she taunted, a mischievous smirk playing on her lips. I remained silent, unable to form a coherent response as she took my hand, guiding me towards a nearby chair. I followed her lead without uttering a word, allowing her to push me gently into the seat.She gracefully settled into the chair opposite mine, her legs spreading wide apart, revealing her intimate desires. My breath hitched at the sight, a mixture of anticipation and desire coursing through my veins."Watch," she commanded, her voice laced with a hint of excitement, as she sensually bit down on her lower lip.With a deliberate and tantalizing movement, she brought a finger to her moist lips, tracing the outline as a shiver ran down my spine.
Chapter 56Bonus Scene: A Day in the Life of Alexander and ScarlettThe morning sun bathed the room in a warm glow as Alexander and Scarlett stirred from their slumber. They were greeted by the excited giggles of their children, Emilia and the twins, James and Olivia, who had already risen and were eagerly awaiting the start of the day.As the couple made their way to the kitchen, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air. Alexander skillfully prepared breakfast while Scarlett set the table, their movements synchronized from years of shared routines. Laughter filled the room as the children chatted animatedly, eager to share their dreams and aspirations for the day.After a hearty breakfast, Alexander and Scarlett took turns getting the kids ready for the day. Alexander tied James' shoelaces while Scarlett helped Olivia choose her favorite dress. Emilia, still a toddler, toddled around in her own little world, her laughter filling the house with infectious joy.With backpacks
Chapter 55Tonia's POVThe room buzzed with excitement and happiness as Alexander and Scarlett shared their joyous news of engagement. Tears of joy streamed down my face as I witnessed the love that enveloped them, filling the room with an undeniable warmth. The significance of this moment wasn't lost on me, as I reflected on the unexpected turns life had taken to bring us all together.As the cheers subsided, Aaron's hand found mine, his touch grounding me in the present. His eyes met mine, sparkling with affection and a touch of nervousness. It was a look I had grown to cherish, one that conveyed a deep connection and a shared understanding of our journey."Tonia," he began, his voice steady but filled with emotion, "from the moment I first saw you, my heart recognized its match. You have brought light and joy into my life, and I am grateful for every moment we have shared."My heart swelled with anticipation, knowing what was about to come. The air crackled with electricity, and ti
Chapter 54Scarlett's POVThe journey of pregnancy had brought about significant changes in my life. As I entered the fifth month, my growing belly served as a constant reminder of the precious life growing within me. Every kick and flutter filled me with awe and anticipation, deepening the connection I felt with my unborn child.But along with the joy and excitement came the realization that I needed to take extra care of myself and the baby. Alexander, ever the doting and protective husband, had taken it upon himself to ensure my well-being. He insisted that I abstain from any strenuous activities and delegated household chores to hired help, determined to shield me from unnecessary exertion.I found myself in a constant battle of emotions—grateful for his love and concern, yet at times feeling a sense of restlessness and longing for my usual independence. It was a delicate balance, as I navigated the newfound vulnerability and the desire to remain strong and self-sufficient.Days m
Chapter 53*Tonia's POV*Five months had passed since the day Aaron and I discovered that we were betrothed to each other, bound by a twist of fate that neither of us could have foreseen. In those months, our lives had transformed in ways we could have never imagined, as love blossomed amidst the uncertainty and challenges we faced.The initial shock of our betrothal had given way to a profound understanding of the connection we shared. It was as if the universe had orchestrated our meeting, weaving the threads of our lives together with an invisible hand. With each passing day, our bond grew stronger, transcending the boundaries of circumstance and surpassing the expectations we had once held.Aaron and I had embarked on a journey of exploration and discovery, uncovering the depths of our hearts and learning to trust in the power of love. We had navigated through doubts and insecurities, allowing vulnerability to pave the way for profound connection. With each shared conversation, ea
Chapter 52*Tonia's Pov*I was still lost staring at his beautiful home when he walked over with a glass of coffee."Here..""Thanks" I said, collecting the cup from him and he settled beside me.He watched me gulp down a little content of the cup before starting a conversation."So.. you found my house coincidentally?..or you decided to give me a visit or ..I'm confused" He said with a little chuckle."Neither of that" I responded and he raised his left brow."So..what?..""I live here, the neighbour next door, it's me" I said and his mouth made an 'oh" shape and his brows twitched in shock."Really?" He asked, his eyes wide open in shock and I nodded."Did you.. ""Yeah, saw you on my first day here" I said and his brows fell."Then why didn't..""Well, I felt like you didn't feel the same way and I was the only one and you know, showing up in front of you again as your neighbor, that might seem you know, like a pain in your ass" I said laughing at my own joke while he was quiet."Y
Chapter 51*Alexander's POV*Scarlett's words hung in the air, creating a momentary silence that seemed to stretch into eternity. My mind whirled with a mix of emotions—surprise, excitement, and a tinge of nervousness. The possibility of expanding our family filled my heart with both joy and trepidation.I took a deep breath, trying to steady myself. "Are you serious?" I asked, my voice filled with a mix of anticipation and uncertainty.Scarlett nodded, her eyes shimmering with a mixture of hope and uncertainty. "I took a pregnancy test earlier today, and it came out positive. I wanted to be sure before sharing the news with you."A surge of elation washed over me as I gathered Scarlett into my arms, holding her tightly. "That's wonderful, Scarlett! I can't even put into words how happy I am right now. We're going to have another child!"Tears of joy welled up in Scarlett's eyes as she hugged me back. "I'm so glad you're happy. I was nervous about how you would react."I smiled, brush
Chapter 50*Alexander's POV*As Scarlett and I stood side by side in the kitchen, preparing a meal for our children, the air was filled with laughter and the comforting aroma of spices. It was a cherished family moment, a time when we could come together and create something delicious as a team.But in an instant, the atmosphere shifted. Scarlett, who had been bustling around the kitchen with energy and enthusiasm, suddenly slumped onto a nearby chair. Concern flooded my senses as I rushed to her side, placing a hand on her shoulder."Scarlett, are you okay?" I asked, my voice laced with worry. Her face was pale, and beads of sweat had formed on her forehead.She looked up at me, her eyes filled with a mix of exhaustion and discomfort. "I... I don't feel well, Alexander," she whispered, her voice trembling.Worry gripped my heart as I quickly assessed the situation. "Kids, go to your playroom for a moment, please," I instructed our little ones, their eyes wide with concern as they obe
Chapter 49*Tonia's Pov*I sat down with Scarlett, ready to pour out my frustrations and share the rollercoaster of emotions that had consumed me since the day I found out Aaron was living in the same compound as me. Taking a deep breath, I began recounting the series of events that had unfolded."Scarlett, you won't believe what happened," I said, my voice filled with a mixture of disappointment and sadness. "Remember when I told you about the mansion I rented? Well, it turns out Aaron, the guy I met at the bookstore, is the owner of the other mansion."Scarlett's eyes widened in surprise. "No way! What are the odds of that?"I nodded, a bitter smile tugging at the corners of my lips. "I know, right? It felt like fate had brought us together, but things didn't go as I had hoped. Despite living so close to each other, Aaron seemed completely oblivious to my presence. It's like we were living in two different worlds."I went on to tell Scarlett about the moments of longing I experience
Chapter 48*Tonia's POV*As I settled into my new role as the official CEO of my dad's company, a mix of excitement and nervousness filled my heart. The responsibility that now rested on my shoulders was immense, and I was determined to make my mark.I sat down with Scarlett, eager to share the details of my first day on the job. We sipped tea in the cozy living room, the familiar surroundings offering a comforting backdrop to our conversation."Scarlett, you won't believe how surreal it felt to walk into the office as the CEO," I exclaimed, my voice filled with a mixture of pride and disbelief. "The employees greeted me with such respect and warmth. It was truly humbling."Scarlett smiled, her eyes shining with genuine happiness for me. "That's incredible, Tonia. I knew you would excel in this role. Your passion and dedication are truly inspiring."I blushed at her kind words, grateful for her unwavering support. "Thank you, Scarlett. I have big shoes to fill, but I'm determined to l