Chapter 62“Have you heard from Estefan?” Lydia asked in a small yet inquisitive voice.Kaitlyn and her friend didn’t allow Melissa's drama to affect them as they resumed their discussion. Kaitlyn couldn’t help but feel confident in herself; she had stood her ground, and Melissa had been the one to back down. It was a small victory for her.“Not today,” Kaitlyn replied in a light tone. “Though he’s out of the country on business. But he’s been checking in regularly. I think he’s just as eager for this project to succeed as I am.”Evelyn nodded in agreement. “I’m sure he is. You both make a great team, and it’s clear that you’re more than just a power couple. You’re a real couple."But Lydia noticed the distress look on Kaitlyn's face, though she was trying to hide them. “Are you okay?” Lydia asked, her voice pulling Kaitlyn back to the present.“Yeah, I’m fine,” Kaitlyn replied, forcing a smile. “Just thinking about everything we need to do for the charity event next week.”Evelyn nod
Chapter 63Adrian OfficeAdrian was typing off from his computer at the office. He was determined to prove to his family that this part of the Salvatore subsidiary group that he was managing will flourish more than they had expected. If Estefan's motive was to prove that he was not capable of anything, he was determined to prove him wrong.While he was busy working on the document laid on his table and contemplating the best possible course of action, a soft knock on his office door pulled him from his thoughts. “Come in,” he called out.The door opened to reveal his assistant, Laura. “Mr. Salvatore, there’s someone here to see you at the reception,” she said as calmly as ever.“Do I have an appointment I was not informed of?”"No, sir, she didn’t have an appointment with you. But she said you will be willing to meet her.” Adrian looked at her with curiosity.“Her? Who is she?”“It’s Melissa.”Adrian’s brow furrowed slightly. She hadn’t mentioned coming by, and he wasn’t particularly
Chapter 64“You’re back earlier than I expected,” he remarked, his voice casual.Kaitlyn nodded, setting her purse down on the table. “Yeah, we wrapped up early. The event planning is coming along nicely.” Kaitlyn had just gotten back from a meeting with the planner for the event she is hosting for Grandma Elena. She was shocked to see Estefan sitting in the living room, a glass of whiskey in his hand as he looked up at her as she walked in; his expression was unreadable as usual.He had returned from his trip two days ago, but she wasn’t expecting him to be home early from work.Estefan studied her for a moment, his gaze moving on her face. “That’s good to hear. Let me know if you need any help with it.”Kaitlyn offered him a small smile. “I will, thanks.”There was a brief, awkward silence before Kaitlyn turned to head to her room. But before she could take a step, Estefan spoke again, his tone softer this time.“Kaitlyn… How are you doing? I mean, with everything that’s going on.”
Chapter 65The day of the charity event had finally arrived, and the grand ballroom of the Salvatore Foundation was busy with various activities. The elegant space had been transformed into a warm, inviting environment, decorated with soft lights and delicate floral arrangements, and an exquisite décor that flowed with the occasion's significance. Kaitlyn had spent weeks meticulously planning every detail, and now, as she surveyed the room, a sense of accomplishment flowed over her.She had planned this event on behalf of Grandma Elena, who is deeply committed to philanthropic work, especially causes related to children. This particular event was aimed at raising funds for a local orphanage that had long been close to Elena’s heart. The cause was dear to Kaitlyn as well, and she had thrown herself into the preparations, determined to make it a resounding success, taking in Elena’s every detail.As guests began to arrive, Kaitlyn moved gracefully through the crowd, greeting each one wi
Chapter 66The success of the charity event had taken the city by storm. The media buzz surrounding the event was pronounced, with headlines praising the Salvatore Foundation’s dedication to the community. But more than anything, they were captivated by the grace and poise of Kaitlyn Salvatore, the newest addition to the Salvatore family, who had so flawlessly executed the event.The event was hailed as one of the best in recent years, with numerous articles and segments dedicated to its impact. The generosity of the donors, the heartwarming performances by the children from the orphanage, and the overall atmosphere had been perfectly captured and shared across all media platforms. However, the person who drew the most attention was Kaitlyn. The way she carried herself, her heartfelt speech, and her evident passion for the cause made her an instant media darling.“Salvatore Foundation’s Charity Gala a Grand Success, Thanks to the New Mrs. Salvatore,” one headline read.Another article
Chapter 67A few days later, Melissa decided to distract herself by going on a shopping spree. She invited Vanessa, who shared her interest in luxury and gossip. The two women met at one of the city’s most exclusive shopping malls, a place where only the elite could afford to spend their afternoons.The mall was a well-laid, elegant space filled with high-end boutiques and designer stores. Crystal chandeliers hang from the ceiling, and the marble floors shine under the soft lighting. It was a place where the wealthy came to indulge, and Melissa was no exception. She had made her way to this phase of her life to enjoy the luxury it brings.“Vanessa, darling,” Melissa greeted her friend with a smile that didn’t quite reach her eyes. “I’m so glad you could join me. I needed a break from all the madness.”Vanessa, who had perfectly styled hair and was a fashionista that could rival any fashion icon, smiled back. “Of course, Melissa. I wouldn’t miss it. Besides, we could both use a little
Chapter 68Back at the Salvatore estate, the mood was much more lively. Grandma Elena was still basking in the success of the charity event, her heart warmed by the positive reception it had received. Estefan had cleared his schedule to spend time with Kaitlyn one afternoon, and the two of them were enjoying a rare moment of peace, lounging in the garden with cups of tea.Kaitlyn was smiling, her face glowing with the satisfaction of a job well done. She had worked hard on the event, and seeing how much it had meant to Grandma Elena had made it all worthwhile.“Grandma called earlier today,” Estefan paused to study Kaitlyn's reaction. “She still praises you for doing an amazing job,” Estefan said, reaching over to take her hand. “I’m really proud of you.”Kaitlyn’s smile widened as she tried to hide her shock at how he had held her hands. She tried to slowly retrieve her hands, but Estefan held them tighter, and she slowly relaxed as she sque
Chapter 69Kaitlyn paused mid-step, a surge of resolve tightening her chest. Michael’s words echoed in her ears, the venom in his voice clear—he was convinced their marriage was a sham. For a fleeting second, she considered ignoring him, walking away, and letting him stew in his own bitterness. But something inside her; the part that had spent months reclaiming her self-worth, demanded she stand her ground.Slowly, she turned back to face Michael, her eyes sharp with confidence. “You think you know me, Michael? That I’m incapable of moving on? That I can’t love anyone but you?” She stepped closer, her chin held high, her tone firm. “Well, let me clear something up for you; I love Estefan.”The words hit Michael like a physical blow, his expression shifting as her declaration cut deep within him. He swallowed hard, trying to keep his composure, but the hurt in his eyes was undeniable.Kai
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