Breathlessly, I emerged out of my hiding place. My cheeks burning in humiliation. I wonder how he was able to know I was there. Lucas Nicholas, as if he read my thoughts, gestured to my foot which was still wrapped with a bandage. "Your toe was sticking out." He supplied the information for me. The remark turned the color on my cheeks even brighter. If the situation were a bit different I could have laughed at my own stupidity. But instead of laughing I found myself swallowing hard by the way he looked at me. His melting gaze was turning my knees into jell-o that if it weren't for the crutches supporting me, I would have fallen to the floor. "Come here." He ordered, patting the space beside him on the long Victorian sofa. "We need to talk." He added with a dangerous glint upon his black onyx eyes. I swallowed hard and ignored my increasing heartbeat. Slowly, I made my way to the sofa where he sat while I silently wish for some kind of miracle to happen and save me from an impendi
The moment my gaze landed on the raven-haired boy, my heart lurched forward. Tears welled my eyes while my chest tightened until I had difficulty breathing. "Mumm. " He said, in his soft, childish tone. His large eyes locked to my own. "Niall." His name sprung out of my lips. This was the child I brought with me the night I ran away with my lover. And this child—I almost got him killed. The thought filled me with indescribable anguish that for a moment I found myself unable to say a word. How could I do that to an innocent child?Intense guilt ate me inside as I looked at him. As if a button had been pushed, I remembered the mistake I committed and I realized that I will never forgive myself for dragging a child's innocent life into danger. The fact that I nearly lost him from the accident made the pain in my chest unbearable… It was indeed a miracle that we are both able to survive. I cleared my throat and pulled the door wider, allowing him to enter the room before closing it
The gentleness of his fingers moving against my skin nearly made me close my eyes. His fingers traced the outline of the tattoo on my naked flesh which I wasn't aware of until he told me about its existence. "A beautiful rose and a rosary," He mumbled absentmindedly, his breathing heavy against my back. He was so near to me that I suddenly became aware of my nakedness. I pressed the shirt he just handed to my chest to cover my bare breasts. I tried to ignore his presence but it was impossible. It was hard to ignore an overly six feet tall demigod, packed with rippling muscles and irresistible charm. Especthat he's caressing my back in a gentle way I never knew he's capable of. "If you didn't love me, why did you need to put my name on your skin?"Before I could even respond, he lifted me up from the floor as if I weighed no more than a feather and turned my body to his until I was facing him. His dark midnight eyes caged mine.I blinked rapidly, shocked by the sudden shift in his
Lucas opened his mouth as if to say something but changed his mind at the last minute and closed it again. The flicker of tenderness I thought I saw crossed his face was nowhere to be seen. Instead a face masked with a paper blank expression is what was staring back at me. "You must be tired. You can go back to your room and rest. I'll take good care of my child. " He told me in a tone which was filled with a chilling civility. He was right, I need to go back to my room. I have no reason to stay in his room any further. My gaze stared back at Niall. There was a dull ache in my chest as I wiped the wetness at the corner of his eyes. I still wanted to stay, to hold him in my arms like a mother should but I felt that Lucas didn't want me there at all. I couldn't blame him for hating me. I've done something unforgivable and no matter how much regret I have now, It's impossible to make him forgive me, especially that the wound was still raw. "Goodnight Niall." I whispered to the chil
Lucas Nicholas sat into his throne—his swivel chair with forehead crumpled in disgust as he glared at the report he held in his hand. "So it was confirmed? It was Brix—your illegitimate brother—which Alexandria ran off the night of your wedding anniversary?" It was his loyal best friend Ace Carter Greyson seated into the swivel chair opposite him with a glass of brandy in his hand. "The man's body couldn't be identified since the car was fatally wrecked by the explosion but Brix's ring which was engraved with his family initials was found on the scene. There was no doubt in my mind that it was him." He replied grimly, not taking his eyes off the report. "It was fortunate of him to not survive the accident for I would have killed him myself if he did escape the clutches of death." He added coldly, a dangerous gleam crossing his inky eyes. Brix was his father's illegitimate son and he was older than Lucas by a year. If it happened that his father married Brix's mother then Nichola
A soft knock sounded on the door of the library. From looking at the newspaper in my hand, I lifted my head and stared at the door, waiting for it to open. When it did, Thompson came in. "Good day, Mrs. Alexander you have a visitor." He announced in the same formal tone he uses when talking to me. "A visitor?" I repeated. Surprised. "It was your friend, Miss Hamilton." He said. The frown that scrunched my forehead quickly disappeared. The news of a visitor managed to revive my glum spirits. 'Miss Hamilton'. I repeated the words in my mind but completely failed to recognize her name. I tried recalling how she looked but I failed in that aspect too.Disappointed, a sigh broke from my lips. I raised my head at Thompson who was still waiting for my response. "I will meet my visitor downstairs." I told him and quickly rose from the sofa. I don't want to keep my visitor waiting. "Miss Hamilton was informed about your heel injury. She volunteered to meet you here in the library." Thomp
Miss Hamilton was gone and yet I was still on my feet shaking from shock and utter disbelief. I didn't expect the situation to escalate from bad to worse. Just reliving what took place moments ago sent shivers down my spine. The ugly mask of rage I saw lit her face up told me that if she's holding a gun she could have shot me in the head and feel no remorse afterwards. Not that I could make an excuse to defend myself, I knew all too well that I deserve to get punished after the ruination she went through alone because of my ploy. My strength escaped my body and I slumped on the sofa still in daze. Perhaps Miss Hamilton was right, I told myself with reluctant resignation, I'd been a terrific lightskirt, villainous bitch and that set of adjectives wasn't even enough to sum up my unholy bitchiness that sent countless lives to their doom. I was still there on the sofa contemplating my disastrous life when an urgent knock sounded on the door. Then a few seconds later it opened and Thomp
I swallowed hard, as I watched hatred and fury played a tug of war in her eyes. "Lover huh." Emery repeated the words, bitterness shone on her eyes. Slowly, she made her way towards my direction with her jaw clenched and fist turned into a ball in her side. If looks could kill, I had fallen on the floor, bleeding to my death while she glared at me as though her eyes were made of daggers."Emery, let me explain… please… It's not Alexandria's fault. It's entirely my fault. " Clifford said. The shock he felt finally subsided. Almost immediately, he flung himself in between me and Emery in an attempt to stop the situation from escalating before one of us ends up with an injury. "It takes two to tango so shut up. We will deal later, Clifford. For now Alexandria and I have to settle something." Emery told him firmly, there was a detectable threat in her words as she said it out loud. The palpable warning he heard on her tone made him hesitant for a bit but when he recovered Clifford tried
"Are you still leaving?" Lucas asked me after a moment of pause. Sadness shone in his eyes. At that moment he looked like an adorable puppy melting my heart. "I have important matters to attend to, being the CEO of AA Cosmetics," I replied, my tone apologetic. I couldn't help but feel sorry for him. "If only I don't have to attend to my responsibilities then I could just stay. However, I will lose not only millions but the company I worked hard for if I don't take care of it. I have responsibilities that I can't neglect."He sighed, running a hand through his tousled hair. "I understand," he murmured under his breath, his eyes never leaving mine. "But will you come back?" he asked, hope shining in his eyes. I paused, taking a moment to gather my thoughts."I promise I'll be back in a month," I told him, trying to give him some reassurance. "I won't let our time together end like this." Lucas cleared his throat. "What if you find someone else while you're away?" he asked, his brows f
I gazed at the necklace in awe, tears fell down my flushed cheeks. Hastily, I wiped it away before the child could notice and inquire about my tears. I didn't want Niall to witness my sorrow, fearing that he might feel the same way. It was too painful for me to bear.I took the necklace from the velvet box and held it up, admiring its beauty carefully. The child is so thoughtful, remembering to give me a gift. It makes me more guilty to explain to him that I'll be gone from the house and will probably never return.Gently, I put it around my neck. The cool silver chain rested against my skin, the stones creating a dazzling display of color in the soft light of the room. It was the first and probably the last gift I received from him and I will forever treasure it."It looks perfect on you, Mom." he said softly, his eyes shining with pride. "I knew you would like it."I reached up to touch his cheeks and whispered, my voice thick with emotion. "Thank you, Niall….This is so beautiful. I
When Sam and I parted ways, I didn't head straight home, wanting to have a moment to myself. Deep in thought, I realized that with my twin sister gone, I have to go back to my old life as Arabella Angelstone, the CEO of AA cosmetics to fulfill my responsibility.It's been a long time since I've handled the company on my own. But with everything finally back in its place it's clear that I have to take over.I experienced a twinge of sadness thinking about leaving the Alexander mansion and saying goodbye to the cherished memories and loved ones I hold dear. Lucas and Niall, in particular, hold a special place in my heart. Although Niall may not be my biological child, as my twin's son, he feels like my own.I had a strong desire to remain in the mansion, creating more memories with Niall and Lucas. Sadly, I couldn't find a valid reason to stay. The relationship between Lucas and myself is unclear. I am unsure of where I stand in his life and know that one day he will find the woman he w
When we reached home, the first light of dawn pierced through the dark sky. Lucas and I quickly went to Niall's room to check on him. Finding the little boy peacefully asleep relieved my anxiety. Afterwards, we headed straight to bed, craving a few hours of rest.The night had been intense, unforgettable. While Lucas drifted into a deep slumber, I stayed awake, observing the steady rhythm of his breathing, thinking I'm going to miss him when I'm gone.I tried to push the thought out of my mind but I couldn't. My time in this house was limited. I couldn't stay here forever, this isn't my home. Eventually, I would have to go back to my old life as Arabella Angelstone, a businesswoman accustomed to being alone.I gently brushed a strand of hair away from his face, feeling a pang of regret. But if Lucas were to express a desire for me to stay, I would consider it. But the reality was, that was not an option as he harbored no feelings for me.I couldn't find the courage to confess my feeli
"I have a gun, Bella. If you make so much as a scream, I'll kill Niall next door."I froze, my heart sinking to the pit of my stomach "No you won't." I gasped, "He's your son.""Do you think I won't kill him?" Her laughter filled the air with chill. "I once killed you… I won't hesitate to get rid of my son for the sake of revenge.""You're evil!" My teeth clenched."Is that a compliment?" Alexandria giggled. "Turn around, I want to witness the fear in your eyes when I get rid of you."I obediently did what she told me. She was wearing a servant's uniform, and concealed her hair color behind a brunette wig. No wonder no one noticed her sneak in, she blended well with her disguise."You won't get away with this." "Oh, really? I've done this before Bella. I was never caught and I'm sure not this time."Her lips curled into a smug smirk. "Lucas will take time to return, by the time he reaches here, you'll be dead."Shock reverberated through me. Panic threatened to consume me, but I ref
Three days later.I took a deep breath and strode inside the study, clutching the DNA result which arrived from the lab this morning.What I have to say to Lucas would change everything.As I approached him, I noticed a furrowed brow and a slight hunch in his posture. He was completely engrossed in the papers scattered across his desk, and seemed oblivious to my presence. It was as if the world around him had faded away, leaving only the task at hand to capture his attention.I didn't want to interrupt him, but what I have to say can't wait.""Lucas."With a lift of his gaze, he met my eyes. His frown, which had been etched on his face just a moment prior, vanished in an instant."Is there anything you need?" he inquired, rising from his chair and striding purposefully in my direction.I shook my head and handed him the envelope which I had already read."A DNA result?" His frown returned and he unfolded the paper. As he finished reading, a look of indescribable shock washed over his
"I just want to talk to you," I replied, trying to keep my voice steady. "I know you're angry with me, but I think we need to clear the air.Ms. Hamilton crossed her arms and shot me a murderous glare. "And why should I talk to you? You slept with my fiancé.""No, we never slept together. I lied to you because I was envious of your relationship and I wanted to destroy it but after I learned you're pregnant I felt guilty and wanted to correct my mistakes.As the conversation between us started to heat up, Peterson finally got in between."Alexandria is telling the truth, Lily....Nothing happened between us!" He exclaimed, his thick brows almost meeting halfway in frustration.Peterson continued on, " She made everything up! She lied to everyone, trying to ruin my reputation!""I cannot believe what you have done," she said, her voice trembling with anger, her eyes never once leaving my face.I took a deep breath, aware of a countless pair of eyes watching us like a freak show. "Ms. Ha
As I walked down the stairs, I felt the soft rustle of my cocktail gown brushing against the polished wooden steps. I had spent hours getting ready for this moment - carefully applying makeup, curling my hair, and choosing the perfect dress - all to impress Lucas, who was waiting for me at the bottom of the staircase.He looked up as I approached, a slow smile spreading across his face. "You look stunning," he said, his eyes drinking in the sight of me. "Absolutely breathtaking."I couldn't help but blush at his words, feeling a rush of excitement and anticipation fill me. "Thank you," I mumbled.Lucas took my hand and led me towards the door, his touch sending shivers down my spine. "Are you ready to go?" he asked, his voice low and husky.I nodded, feeling a sudden burst of confidence. This was it - the moment I had been waiting for. With Lucas by my side, I knew anything was possible.As we stepped out into the night air, I felt his hand slip around my waist, pulling me close. "You
"Eros was so worried about you, Bella. He thought you're dead.""Oh my god. I felt so terrible. " I bit my lower lip. "How was he doing?" Sam took a deep breath. "Well, before I explained to him what had happened to you, he was utterly devastated. Somehow he was relieved to know you're doing fine.""Phew... I hope he understands that I can't just show up without knowing the situation there first. I wouldn't want to spoil our plans by revealing to Alexandria that my memory has returned.""Don't worry Bella, Eros understands. In fact he said it's better you stay here for a while until Alexandria is caught."Feeling a pulsing ache in my head, I begin to gently rub my temples. "She's as elusive as a fish," I mutter to myself, "I wonder where we should even start looking for her.""You don't have to search for Alexandria. Eventually, she will come to you to finish on her own accord."I raised an eyebrow in confusion, "What exactly do you mean, Samantha?"She leaned back in her chair, tak