Chapter 101Kaitlyn BedroomKaitlyn woke up slowly to the morning sun streaming through the small gaps in her curtains, reflecting a soft glow on her room. She blinked a few times, then stretched her arms lazily. As the memories of the previous night flow back, her heart fluttered. She instinctively placed her fingers on her lips, recalling the tenderness and warmth of Estefan’s kiss. It had been slow, sweet, and passionate, leaving her dazed and conflicted, and in that moment, it felt like nothing else in the world mattered.She also recalled how he had pulled back afterward just enough to look her in the eyes. “Don’t worry about anything,” he had whispered, his thumb caressing her cheek. “We’ll be fine, Kaitlyn. Don’t let it weigh you down.” The thought of him kissing her forehead before leaving her room made her smile involuntarily. Even now, the memory made her cheeks flush. His words, along with that kiss, had comforted her and smooth her inner soul. Kaitlyn shook her head tryi
Chapter 102The past few weeks had been torture for Kaitlyn. While she had been busy with work, Estefan, on the other hand, was becoming too sweet. He had become more attentive and affectionate, leaving her sweet messages in the morning, checking in on her throughout the day, and sometimes surprising her with thoughtful gestures. It was like they were slowly becoming what they had pretended to be—a real couple. But while Estefan seemed comfortable embracing this new feeling, Kaitlyn was struggling.Every time his touch lingered or his gaze softened, she felt a pull toward him—an emotional attachment she wasn’t ready to bear. This isn’t real, she reminded herself constantly. This is still a contract. But Estefan was relentless in his quiet pursuit, and Kaitlyn didn’t know how much longer she could keep up the façade.Salvatore’s Headquarters The grand boardroom of Salvatore Group was filled with silenced conversation as the company’s senior executives and managers gathered for their y
Chapter 103Eminence Studio Lorenzo, the director, and his team were busy reviewing all of Kaitlyn’s shoots and discussing with the production and marketing teams the upcoming release of their special edition. The magazine’s new face, Kaitlyn, had brought a fresh energy to their brand, and they were planning to unveil her as their star at the turn of the year.“Her photoshoots have been flawless,” Lorenzo counted as he flipped through the final portfolio of images. “We’ve struck gold with Kaitlyn. She’s everything we hoped for and more.”Gregor, his assistant, nodded in agreement. “Yes, so the marketing team is finalizing the strategies to release the edition. We’re aiming to make a splash on New Year’s Eve and carry that momentum into the new year.”The marketing manager nodded before adding also. “We need to capitalize on that. A strong campaign across all media—social, print, and digital outlets. We’ll do a teaser first, build anticipation, then launch the full spread just before
Chapter 104At the Dining TableThey sat down at the dining table, the meal spread before them. The soft clink of silverware filled the air as they began eating.“So,” Estefan said. “How did the meeting go? You mentioned marketing strategies?”Kaitlyn perked up slightly. “Yeah, it went well, actually. Evelyn suggested we organize a fashion show to introduce our designs. It’ll showcase everything our models will wear, and we’ll have a magazine to go along with it to highlight the entire collection. The marketing manager suggested a campaign that’ll focus on advertising across various channels, including social media and magazines, to create as much buzz as possible.”“That’s smart,” Estefan nodded with genuine interest. “You’re planning to launch everything at the beginning of the new year, right?”“Yes,” Kaitlyn said, taking a small bite of her food. “In about three weeks. It’s... overwhelming, to be honest. There are so many moving parts. Production, logistics, sales teams, customer
Chapter 105“Kaitlyn, are you even listening to me?” Sarah’s voice jolted Kaitlyn from her thoughts, her concerned face peering down at her friend, seated on the sofa, massaging her temples.Kaitlyn blinked, pulling herself out of the deep well of exhaustion she’d been sinking into. She looked up at Sarah, who had just walked into her office, and sighed. “Sorry, it’s just... everything. The deadlines, the rush to get the company ready for launch—it’s overwhelming.”Sarah nodded, her eyes scanning Kaitlyn’s face with sympathy. “Yeah, I figured something was off when I saw you like this. But it’s more than just work, isn’t it?”Kaitlyn hesitated, then sighed again, rubbing her forehead. “It’s Estefan. He’s been... different lately. Sweet, caring—more than usual. And last week, he told me he wants us to be together for real. No contract. No pretense, and he will wait for me to accept him.”Sarah’s eyes widened in delight, and she immediately sat down on the sofa next to Kaitlyn, grabbing
Chapter 106Michael and Apartment Melissa slipped off her heels and headed for the staircase, her mind already dismissing the man sitting in the kitchen. She was determined to avoid yet another argument with Michael. It had been weeks since they had shared more than a few strained words, and she had no energy left for him tonight. But Michael’s voice stopped her from moving forward.“Melissa,” he called, rising from the stand and walking towards the sitting room. “I need to talk to you.”She paused, her back still to him. She could feel him stop on his heel just behind her before continuing his walk to the sitting room. After a brief moment, she turned around, crossing her arms defensively. "About what? What do you want, Michael?"He ran a hand through his hair, clearly frustrated but trying to keep his voice level. "Just give me a few minutes of your time. Can you sit down, please?"Melissa hesitated, getting irritated. After a moment, she sighed and reluctantly walked back to the s
Chapter 107The grand entrance of Estefan and Kaitlyn into the event was nothing short of spectacular. As their car pulled up to the red carpet, cameras flashed, and reporters gathered eagerly. Bodyguards paved the way for them as they stepped out, hand-in-hand, radiating elegance and confidence. Kaitlyn, dressed in the crystal golden gown, looked radiant, and Estefan exuded his usual air of authority, but with a softer gaze reserved only for his wife.Sarah, walking just behind them, beamed proudly, her own vibrant dress turning heads as she was flanked by their security team. The red carpet seemed endless, with flashing lights reflecting off the sequins of Kaitlyn’s dress.As they moved forward, reporters clamored for their attention. One finally managed to get close enough to ask a question.“Mr. Salvatore! How does it feel to have your beautiful wife by your side tonight?”Estefan glanced at Kaitlyn with a warm smile before turning to the reporter. “It feels incredible. Kaitlyn ha
Chapter 108The evening was in full swing as the party officially kicked off, the buzz of conversation dying down when the moderator called for everyone’s attention. The ballroom became quiet as the spotlight shifted to the stage, where the Salvatore family was poised for the next part of the event.“Ladies and gentlemen, it’s time to recognize the outstanding achievements of some of our company’s brightest stars,” the moderator announced. “We begin with the award for the best manager and most productive subsidiary division of the Salvatore Group.”Adrian, who had been absently sipping his drink, barely registered the words until he noticed the spotlight on him and the sudden murmur and movement at his table. He looked up, only to see his name and division displayed on the large screen in bold letters. His jaw dropped slightly, his body freezing in place as the screen detailed the statistics of his division’s performance. It was the best across all subsidiaries, a feat he had not even
Chapter 117Melissa sat across from Michael cold and with a rigid posture, her arms crossed tightly over her chest. She had waited long enough, and now it was time to lay her cards on the table. In a calm yet resolute manner, she uttered those words that would change everything between them.“I want a divorce, Michael.” Her wavering eyes were locked onto his, as she declared. “And I don’t expect you to fight this.” She waved a hand at him.Michael sat motionless as he blinked, trying to process what she had just said, slowly letting her words sink in. Divorce? They had their issues, sure, but he hadn’t expected this. Not now, though their relationship was heading in that direction, but he wasn’t expecting this so abruptly.Melissa continued; her voice was strangely calm, as if she had rehearsed the lines many times before. "I don’t want anything from you. No money, no property—nothing. I can take care of myself." She exhaled sharply, as if relieved to get it off her chest.He tried to
Chapter 116Michael and Melissa Apartment Melissa’s heart raced as she watched Michael, waiting for his response. The room seemed to grow colder; the sound from the television was barely audible at the moment amidst the tension between them. She had put everything on the line with her question, and now she needed the truth, no matter how painful it might be.Michael leaned back on the couch, rubbing his face with both hands. His mind was spinning as his heart conflicted. He wanted to be honest with Melissa, but even he wasn’t entirely sure of the answer. How could he explain the complicated feelings he still harbored for Kaitlyn while trying to build something real with Melissa?Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Michael spoke. “Melissa, I can’t lie to you,” he began, his eyes meeting hers with regret and frustration. “I’m trying to move on. I really am. But Kaitlyn... she was such a big part of my life. It’s hard to just... erase that.”Melissa felt her heart sink. Though sh
Chapter 115“There’s something I’ve been meaning to say for a while now,” Melissa began, her voice shaking slightly. “I know things between us haven’t been... easy.”Michael set down his wine glass, turning to face her, fully curious at what was bothering her so much that she was struggling to say. “What do you mean?” he asked. He had been through enough drama lately, and the last thing he needed was more, at least not today.Melissa looked away, her fingers tapping nervously on her knees. She wasn’t sure how to begin or if she should even say it, but she knew she had to. “I think,” she started, “we’ve been avoiding the real issues between us. The truth is... ever since Kaitlyn...” She hesitated as she saw the tension and anger in Michael’s eyes at the mention of her name.Michael interrupted her with a sharp tone. “This again? Melissa, for God’s sake, how many times are you going to bring up Kaitlyn? She’s not the problem. We are.”Melissa bristled at his words, feeling her frustrati
Chapter 114Estefan Penthouse Kaitlyn stirred awake as the early morning light flowed through the curtains, giving a warm glow over Estefan's bedroom. Her mind was still foggy, but as she blinked herself awake, the events of the previous night came flooding back. She had once again found herself in Estefan’s arms and in his bed, after their return from the glamorous launching gala. The intensity of their connection, the way their lips found each other, how their bodies intertwined, and the emotions that followed were still fresh in her mind. She buried her face deeper into the blanket, feeling embarrassed yet excited as the memories replayed in her mind.After lying still for a while, Kaitlyn decided she needed to get up. Slowly, she tried to inch her way out of the bed, careful not to disturb Estefan. But just as she was about to slip out, she felt his arm tighten around her waist, pulling her closer. She frozen, thinking he might wake up, but when his grip loosened slightly, she re
Chapter 113The crowd’s whispers filled the grand hall as Estefan and Kaitlyn made their way toward the stage. Their striking entrance had left an indelible mark on the room. All eyes were on the power couple as they walked magnetically full of radiant and effortless grace that demanded attention.Kaitlyn tried to steady her nerves, aware of the scrutinizing gaze of the audience. Though she was used to being the center of attention, the significance of tonight, coupled with Estefan’s bold move to escort her publicly, had made her emotions swell. He hadn’t told her he was going to walk her.She couldn’t deny the comfort she felt as she felt his warm hand resting lightly on her back, guiding her forward. She had been avoiding him lately since the passionate night they shared together and couldn’t believe he would be there for her tonight.Estefan leaned in as they approached the stage and said in a low and intimate whisper. “You’re doing great, Mi Reina. This is your night, and I wouldn
Chapter 112The next morning at the hospital, Melissa was lying in bed; she hadn’t sustained any physical injuries from the accident, but the shock of the impact was still taking a toll on her. Both Michael and Melissa shared a private room in the hospital because of Melissa's status as a high-class model; the tension between her and Michael was still there. Vanessa sat beside her, too focused on slicing the fruit she had brought with her earlier; she was trying to distract herself from an uncomfortable situation in the room.Michael, meanwhile, was seated on his bed; his arm was bandaged and there were a few visible bruises on the side of his head. His friends had come to check on him immediately; they had received the news. They chatted together, but Michael’s mind was elsewhere. His eyes darting between Melissa and the door, nervous about the potential fallout of last night’s crash, and more so, the aftermath of his encounter with Kaitlyn from the night before was still much there.
Chapter 111As Melissa stood outside the hotel, grumbling under her breath, she tapped her foot impatiently, glaring at the valet. Her frustration was bubbling over, and she let it all out on Michael as soon as they got in the car."I can’t believe you’re still chasing after Kaitlyn like some love-struck puppy, even after she’s married," she spat in anger. "You’re pathetic, Michael. She doesn’t want you, and she never will. You’re nothing but a puppet, her puppet!"Michael kept his eyes on the road, one hand gripping the steering wheel, the other propped on the window, supporting his head. His mind was far from Melissa’s insults. He was deep in thought, replaying the evening’s events in his head. The last time he had a confrontation with Kaitlyn, Estefan had scheduled an emergency inspection at the subsidiary division he was managing and didn’t later show up as he had scheduled, which he believes was a clear message of warning. Michael had brushed it off then, but tonight... tonight,
Chapter 110Before anyone could dwell too much on the unease, the lights dimmed as the moderator returned to the stage, signaling the next phase of the evening. “Ladies and gentlemen, it’s time for the grand toast to the future of Salvatore Group. Please raise your glasses as we celebrate the legacy and the bright future ahead.”Glasses clinked all around, and Estefan’s arm tightened around Kaitlyn’s waist as they stood together, lifting their glasses in unison with the room. The atmosphere shifted to one of celebration, and Kaitlyn allowed herself to relax a little, the earlier confrontation fading as she focused on the positive energy around them.Adrian was occasionally stealing glances at Estefan and Kaitlyn, his mind still processing everything. He hadn’t missed the brief tension that had unfolded earlier when they returned from wherever they had been. His sharp eyes moved toward Melissa, who was seated with Michael now, her face set in a smug, satisfied expression. She had clear
Chapter 109Kaitlyn squared her shoulders, refusing to be intimidated by Melissa’s malicious smirk. “Steal your husband?” she said slowly; her voice was firm and clear. “Let me make one thing very clear, Melissa; I don’t want Michael. I never did, and I never will. So, don’t make this about me trying to take something that isn’t even worth having.”A huge blow was given to Melissa's face as her smirk faded at Kaitlyn’s words. Melissa narrowed her eyes dangerously as she opened her mouth to retort, but Kaitlyn wasn’t finished.“You might want to ask yourself why your husband has been lurking around me instead of standing by your side tonight,” Kaitlyn added coldly. “I didn’t seek him out. He’s the one who can’t seem to let go of the past.”Michael flinched, caught in the crossfire, but he still didn’t speak. His guilt was written all over his face, and Melissa saw it. She knew Kaitlyn would never approach Michael first, but she couldn’t admit that to Kaitlyn.“Oh, please,” Melissa snee