Someone's death shouldn't be something I should be glad about. It wasn't my intention to kill him. And if I were to express how sorry I am that he died, I would let my life be taken instead of his. Regrets aside, a part of me felt relieved at the thought that even though I did not intentionally want to take a life, it saved someone's life, Sara Donovan's life in particular.Hearing her abused story, and seeing the anguish written all over her miserable countenance as she spilled everything to me gave me an overwhelming relief that at last the burden she carried over her fragile shoulders for a long time, was finally gone and she can finally live her life at peace."I know I shouldn't be saying this but after his death I never shed a tear. All I could feel as the news sank in was relief that the man who made my living hell was gone." Sara wiped the tear off her cheeks. "I didn't even feel sadness even though he's gone because I know that it would not make any difference, he's still gon
"Have you swallowed your tongue?"Quite taken aback at the sight of Lucas in front of my very own eyes I was unable to say a single word resulting in his thick eyebrows almost meeting halfway in annoyance."I'm talking to you, Bella." He regarded me warily, waiting for me to speak my mind."Well…." I tried to explain but nothing came out. There was no doubt in my mind that no matter what I say won't change his grim mood.As I survey the lines etched in his forehead, I wonder if he was indeed worried about me or just plain annoyed that I left the mansion as soon as he did.Filling my chest with air, I finally summoned all the courage I could muster to speak up. "I'm sorry about leaving without giving you notice.""You should be," He mumbled under his breath. The grim look in his countenance didn't change a bit. "Thompson had called me in panic and I had to cancel my next business appointment just to look for you."Guilt washed through me. But had I told him my whereabouts in advance, he
“Mama… Dada….”Niall came rushing at us the moment I emerged from the car. Happy as a clam, the little boy jumped into my arms and wrapped his little arms around my neck. Lucas now standing besid me ruffled the child's hair. Tenderness shone in his eyes as he did so. I could see every time he looked at his son how much he loved him. And even though I wasn't Niall's biological mother, my heart swells with overwhelming joy as I watch them.Never once in my life did I experience envy towards another person. However, I couldn't help but wish now that I'd been born as Alexandria and had the ideal family she has. Had I been given the chance to be her, I would never ruin the family she almost shattered.Niall and Lucas were too precious to me. I couldn't believe that Alexandria had the strength to hurt them with her actions.“Have you been good today, Niall?” Lucas asked, taking the wiggling child from my arms.“Uh huh.” Niall energetically nodded his head. And in his small voice replied, “
"I was supposed to greet you a good day, Sir but I would rather not." I spoke, looking at the gun he pointed in my direction."You damn well should." Peterson said without taking the gun off my direction.I took a deep breath before approaching Peterson. I knew he was furious with me, and rightfully so. His fiancée had left him because of a lie I had told her. I had made up a story about us being in a relationship, and she had believed it. But now the truth was out, and Peterson was understandably upset."Look, Peterson, I know you're angry with me," I began, trying to keep my tone even. "But I want you to know that killing me won't solve your problems.""But it would eliminate the one who caused it," He spat bitterly, his eyes hard and menacing as they bore on me.Taking in a deep breath, I raised my arms in the air. "I can talk to your fiance and tell her the truth."Peterson scoffed. "The damage has been done and nothing you say will make the situation any better. You lied to my fi
Lucas was gone as fast as lightning but I was still fuming inside while resisting the strong urge to storm out of the room and run after him so we could finish what he started.My legs ache for standing too long and demanding that I sit down so I did."Cheers Mrs. Alexander." Peterson spoke, lifting his glass in the air as though he hadn't just threatened to shoot me moments ago. "That was entertaining." He added with a twinkle in his eyes.I rolled my eyes heavenward, "I'm glad you find it entertaining, Mr. Peterson." I bit back irritably."Why can't you just admit he was right?" He inquired."Do you think he was right?""Well he is." He replied."So you're telling me it's right to just come into the room after we agreed that I could handle this?""Mrs. Alexander, I think you have no idea how men's minds work." Peterson was surprisingly polite as he spoke and I almost couldn't believe he'd been the same man threatening to shoot me a while ago."I certainly had no idea." I grumbled un
As I opened my eyes, the gentle light of the morning sun filtering through the window and casting a warm glow across the room greeted my vision.I stretched my limbs and let out a contented sigh. However, as I turned my head to the side, I felt a sudden jolt of surprise. Lucas was still asleep next to me, his arms wrapped tightly around my body. A blush crept up my cheeks as I realized the intimacy of our position. But before I could even process my emotions, Lucas stirred and opened his eyes."Good morning, beautiful," he whispered, his voice still husky with sleep.I couldn't help but smile at his words, feeling a flutter in my stomach at the way he looked at me. "Good morning," I replied, my own voice soft and warm."I trust you slept well?"My smile widened "Yes, thank you. And you?""Like a baby," he replied with a grin. "I slept with a goddess so no wonder.""Enough with your sweet talk. I have to make Niall's breakfast." I untangled his arms and I got up but Lucas playfully pu
Suddenly, as though a play button had been pushed, the memories from the night I had an accident — the one in particular which I failed to remember — came rushing back to me."Do just what I say. Open the door and get out of the car. Now." Those were the man's exact words as he pointed the cold metallic weapon on my neck.I swallowed the lump in my throat and pressed my cold, trembling fingers together. My heart began racing, and my palms became slick with sweat. There was a scar above his left brow, and the other one on his nose. There was no denying it, he was the man who tried to kill me not once but twice. I remember the first time he tried ending my life was the day I attended my twin sister's wedding and the last was after I returned to the city.I could feel the fear and anxiety rising within me, as I tried to remain calm and composed. I knew I had to stay calm for Lucas's sake, but the fear was almost overwhelming.Lucas was busy scanning the menu, completely unaware of my d
"She did?" I asked, unable to hide the surprise in my tone."Yeah," Lucas confirmed. "I thought you two knew each other. "I'm just surprised she did not talk to you.""Don't you think her voice sounded familiar?"He frowned. "Now that you mentioned it, I do agree her voice sounded familiar. It's just that I can't remember where I heard it before.""Same here." I murmured under my breath, agreeing with him."Look Bella, I don't know what's keeping you uncomfortable during the meal but I could lend you an ear." He gently spoke.I shook my head and met his gaze with pleading eyes. "Please… I don't want to talk about it for now… I just want to get home."Lucas looked at me, ready to argue. But then as though he changed his mind at the last minute, he sighed. "Alright, I'll drive us home." He whispered and laid a soft kiss on my temples.Sighing, I leaned my head on the leather seat. I couldn't wait to get home and rest. However, a short while later, as my gaze shifted on the rearview mir
"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