Chapter 28
Michael Walker sat in his office, his eyes glued to the screen of his computer. He had spent the last few weeks distracted, barely able to concentrate on his work. The news had spread like wildfire, and now every media outlet was buzzing with the story: Kaitlyn Dever, the woman he had discarded, was now Mrs. Estefan Salvatore. Michael’s knuckles turned white as he gripped the edge of his desk, the muscles in his jaw tightening with every passing second.“How could she?” Michael muttered under his breath, his mind racing with a mix of anger, jealousy, and a constant sense of regret. He had expected Kaitlyn to crumble after their breakup, to wallow in misery while he and Melissa moved on with their lives. Instead, she had risen like a phoenix from the ashes, aligning herself with one of the most powerful men in the country and his big boss at that.He felt a sharp pang in his chest, a bitter truth of the life he could have had if he hadn’t beChapter 29A few days after the wedding, Kaitlyn found herself nervously adjusting her dress in the mirror, trying to suppress the butterflies flying in her stomach. Today was the day she would meet more of Estefan’s family members beyond his parents and brother, Adrian, whom she had already encountered. The small gathering was meant to officially welcome her into the Salvatore family. Despite the small private gathering, Kaitlyn couldn’t shake off the feeling that she was about to be assessed by Estefan's extended family. The dinner was long overdue; Estefan had postponed it due to his busy schedule before their wedding.A soft knock on her bedroom door interrupted her thought. While she was still contemplating who was at her door, she heard Estefan's subtle voice from the other side."Kaitlyn, we should be leaving any moment for now.""Oh," Kaitlyn muttered to herself."Are you there? Can I come in?There was a b
The previous evening had gone better than she had hoped, and the genuine warmth from Estefan’s family had reduced much of Kaitlyn's anxiety. She felt like she was beginning to truly fit into her new life.As she got dressed for the day, she couldn’t help but think about the role she was playing. She was Kaitlyn Dever, now Mrs. Salvatore, married to one of the most powerful men in the city. A marriage on mutual agreement; a contract designed to serve both their purposes.Another thought about their supposed honeymoon, which was the next expected plan from them as newlyweds, sent a chill down her spine. It has been delayed for a few days, and Estefan had mentioned it briefly last week at the family gathering, and now she couldn’t help but feel a mix of excitement and curiosity at what he had planned.When Kaitlyn went downstairs, she found Estefan in the kitchen, pouring himself a cup of coffee. He looked up as she entered, his expression as unreadable as ever. “Good morning, Mrs. Salva
Chapter 31Kaitlyn and Estefan had been busy finalizing the details of their upcoming honeymoon to Santorini while also maintaining their carefully arranged public appearances. Kaitlyn was trying to fall into place in her new life. Though their marriage was bare for a week, she was longing for a break from the constant fake play she has to put up with because the paparazzi are always at their trail.At this moment, the only person Kaitlyn could think of was her best friend, Sarah. She knew Sarah understood her predicament better than anyone else. They had not had a chance to catch up since the wedding, and Kaitlyn was eager to see a familiar face.Kaitlyn and Sarah were finally able to arrange for a meeting at a quaint café not far from their home. It was a nice and cozy place with large windows that allowed the sunlight to stream in, giving a soft, warm glow to the place. Kaitlyn had chosen this pace because she wanted a place that did not have anything to do with the Estefan lifesty
Chapter 32The long-awaited morning that Kaitlyn seems to dread deep within herself arrived. She stood by the large window in her bedroom, watching as the sun began to rise. This was the time she loves most of the day; the beauty of the sunrise and its beautiful view as it reflects a golden color over the city. Despite this, her mind was preoccupied with the thoughts of the week ahead.Their departure for Santorini was only a few hours away, and while the world saw this as a romantic getaway, Kaitlyn knew the truth was far more complicated. This honeymoon was another part of the grand illusion they were creating; a trip meant to satisfy the public and solidify their image as a happily married couple.Estefan was already dressed, moving through his room with his usual enthusiasm. He was on the phone, discussing last-minute details with his assistant, ensuring that everything would run smoothly in his absence. Estefan opened the door for Kaitlyn, who ha
Chapter 33The morning after their departure, Estefan and Kaitlyn were welcomed to their luxurious villa in Santorini by a warm Mediterranean breeze and the breathtaking view of the Aegean Sea. The villa, located on a cliffside, offered privacy and seclusion; perfect for the romantic escape they were supposed to be enjoying. Yet, as they settled in, Kaitlyn couldn’t shake the feeling that the world outside their bubble was still watching them closely.Back in Los Angeles, the world was indeed abuzz with news of their honeymoon. Unbeknownst to Estefan and Kaitlyn, a few determined paparazzi had managed to breach the tight security at the airport, taking photos of the couple as they boarded their private jet. The images, showing Kaitlyn and Estefan exchanging what appeared to be affectionate smiles and brief touches, quickly spread across the tabloids and social media.The headlines screamed of a fairytale romance: “Billionaire Couple Jet Off to Honeymo
Chapter 34Back in Los Angeles, Adrian Salvatore's Estefan brother was fuming with resentment toward his brother. While the world marveled at the seemingly perfect lives of Estefan and Kaitlyn, he viewed their union with disdain. His resentment towards his brother had been fueled over the years by hatred that only a few people knew about.Adrian believed he had always lived in Estefan’s shadow. From a young age, it was clear that Estefan was the golden child; the one destined for greatness. Their father, Robert Salvatore, had been grooming Estefan to take over the family empire from the moment he could walk, while Adrian was often left to find his own path. Despite the little difference in their age gap, the brothers couldn’t have been more different. Estefan was the picture of responsibility, intelligence, and charm, while Adrian was believed to be the wild card; the one who never quite fit into the family mold.At first, he admired and looked up to his older brother as his role mode
Chapter 34Estefan and Kaitlyn made use of every opportunity to tell the world that they were a happy couple. While Kaitlyn admires the beauty of this place, the reason they were here was making her have a second thought. But she was determined to cease this opportunity as an adventure and enjoy it; she might not have the opportunity to come here again.One evening, as they sat on the balcony of their private villa facing the serene waters of the Mediterranean, Kaitlyn finally muttered the courage to ask the very one question that had been on her mind since Estefan proposed the contract to her.“Estefan,” she began cautiously, her voice barely louder than the gentle breeze that brushed their skin. “Can I ask you something?”“Sure, go ahead. What is it?”“It’s about your brother, Adrian.”Estefan, who had been looking out at the horizon, turned to face her. His expression softened, though a hint of wariness crept into his eyes. “What do you want to know?”Kaitlyn was stunned he had enc
Chapter 35Kaitlyn and Estefan’s return to Los Angeles was the beginning of a new era. They had managed to maintain the façade of a loving couple during their honeymoon, but as they settled back into their life in the city, the reality of their contract marriage became ever larger.The next evening of their return, Isabella, Estefan’s mother, who was so eager to show off her beautiful daughter-in-law and present the newlyweds as the perfect couple, organized a formal family dinner at one of the Salvatore hotels.Kaitlyn, dressed in an elegant evening gown, couldn’t help but feel overwhelmed and anxious. She was aware of the importance of making a good impression, even if their marriage was built on a lie.Estefan’s place firm yet reassuring hands on her waist as he guided her into the hotel’s private dining room. Of course the media made a frenzy at the entrance of the hotel before they were able to make their entry, capturing every moment of the power couple since their return from t
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