Don’t get me wrong; I’m glad she’s making the effort to call me, even though I haven’t been doing the same. I stare at the phone, wondering if I should pick it up.She’s stuck around for so long. She came to our office for training and stayed with me even after she went back to Canada.The phone suddenly stopped ringing, and I pulled my eyes away from it, trying to gather my thoughts. The phone started ringing again.I knew I had to answer because she wouldn’t stop calling until she heard from me. So, I swiped the phone and answered the call.“Nadine,” she breathed out in relief, “you got me so worried.”I could hear the concern in her voice, and it made me feel a bit better. But my voice choked with tears as I realized how she cared for me, even though I hadn't been there for her.“Nadine, are you alright?” she asked as tears started flowing down my cheeks. I didn’t want to say anything because I didn’t want her to know I’d been crying and make her even more worried.“Nadine?” she c
It's the start of a new beginning, and I won't let anything stop me from enjoying the life I intend to build here. So, I open my phone, take out the SIM card, and break it in two. I don't want anything to remind me of the life I left behind.I think about Logan. I know I promised him I wouldn't, I wonder how my life would have been different if I hadn't caught my sister in bed with Jake. Would I have gotten my happily ever after with him?I also think about my strained relationship with Nathalie. More than anything, I wish we could have a healthy relationship as sisters.I also think about my dad. He never showed me love as a child, always taking Nathalie’s side in everything. My mom suffered because of his behavior, especially when he didn’t care for her during her illness, even though he could have easily paid for her hospital bills.My mother’s illness is what pushed me to accept the contract marriage with Logan, and that turned out to be the worst decision I’ve ever made.And t
When I got to my room, I placed my hand on my chest, feeling a rollercoaster of emotions just from seeing this stranger. It felt strange and wrong at the same time. Trying to shake off the feelings, I unpacked my bag. I noticed there were some beauty essentials and toiletries I needed, so I bought them earlier.I took them out and arranged them where they should be. I also bought a new SIM card so I could communicate more easily.Feeling hungry, I went back downstairs, relieved to see that the handsome stranger had left.“Syd,” I called out.“I’m here,” as I followed her voice to a room and knocked on the door.“Come in.”I walked in and was in awe of her luxurious bedroom.The room was stunning, with a large, plush bed draped in soft, expensive-looking linens. “Wow, you’re living a princess kind of life,” as I took it all in. “How come I haven’t met your parents?”“Oh, my parents,” they’re on vacation. They were once divorced, but then my dad realized he couldn’t live without my m
I looked at her, stunned, wondering how she knew I was pregnant. I didn’t want her to see me as a burden because of it.She sensed my hesitation and moved closer, holding my hand. “Nadine, I’m not trying to push you to tell me. I just want you to be comfortable around me.”“Or have I given you any reason to?” I shook my head vigorously. “No, no, and then hugged her tightly, becoming emotional again. “Oh Sydney, you’re just too good to be true.”Sydney hugged me back gently. “I’m glad you feel that way. We’re friends, and I want you to know that you can trust me with anything.”I pulled back slightly, wiping away a tear. “It means so much to me to hear that. I’ve been so worried about how to handle everything.”“I’m here with you every step of the way,” Sydney said. “And that baby is my godson. I won’t let any harm come to him, not even from that guy—what’s his name again?”Through a mix of laughter and tears, I said, “Logan.”“Yes, Logan. And we’re going to make sure he knows he can’
Thankfully, Lily called my attention, giving me a reason to tear my gaze away from him. I quickly made my way to the back to meet her, trying to shake off the unease. Just before I moved completely away from the front counter, I turned back and saw that they were talking to Zoey.Lily handed me another form, apologizing for forgetting to give it to me earlier. "This one is for your account details," she explained.I filled out the form, glad for the distraction. “Thank you,” I said, handing it back to Lily.When I stepped back into the shop, I noticed the two men were still there, chatting casually with Zoey. I tried to focus on my work, arranging flowers and making sure everything looked perfect. Zoey glanced over at me with a small smile as if she could tell I was still a bit uneasy. I smiled back and kept working.Zoey came over to where I was standing, and I couldn’t hold back my curiosity any longer. “Who are those men?” “Ethan and Mason,” Zoey said with a grin. “They’re th
The day at the flower shop went by in a blur, and I was surprised at how easily I seemed to fit in. Ethan and Mason were still hanging around the shop, and I wondered what their deal was. I tried my best to avoid them to keep my first day from getting any more awkward than it already had been.Lily soon came outside and said, “You can leave once it’s five. Someone else will take over from where you left off.” Then she headed towards Ethan and Mason.“Thank you, Lily,” I said as I picked up my bag. My hands were already aching from cutting and arranging flowers. During lunch, I had ordered food to be delivered since I wasn’t familiar with the area. I didn’t want any trouble finding my way back to the shop because, honestly, I’m terrible at remembering directions.As I was about to step out the door, Mason walked closer to me. I took a moment to check him out. He was wearing black jeans and a black T-shirt, with perfectly styled blonde hair. His chiseled jaw and inviting smile, comp
I arrived at work earlier than usual, even though I hadn’t slept well the night before. I could figure out why I was so restless. After Sydney and I had our fun back-and-forth about guys and their body parts, I was laughing so hard. I didn’t know she had such a cheeky side.As I settled into my work, I tried to shake off the tiredness. The office was quiet, so I used the early hours to catch up on tasks and organize my space.Sydney is managing her father's business and doing well. She never ceases to amaze me. She’s decided to avoid serious relationships because of past heartache. Now, she prefers no-strings-attached friendships with men, just to satisfy her lady bit. She has an active sex life.Today, I woke up from a terrifying dream that made my heart race. In the dream, Logan stabbed Asher multiple times while I just stood there, doing nothing. I cried my eyes out in the dream, and when I woke up, I could still feel the tears rolling down my face. It was so unsettling.I tried
Did he have to follow me to work again after I made it clear I didn’t want anything to do with him? It’s starting to get on my nerves. I had to buy a new dress I hadn’t planned and spend extra cash on coffee.Sure, he agreed to pay, but I said no.But I didn’t want to deal with any man right now, no matter what their intentions were. I just want to avoid the whole mess.I needed to stay focused on my work and not let Ethan’s presence throw me off balance. I glanced over at the counter and saw him still examining the flowers, looking deeply focused.But I couldn’t hold back any longer. I walked up to him, and as soon as I approached, he looked up and met my gaze. “Can I help you, Ms. Witte?” he asked.I was taken aback that he even knew my last name. Why did he have to insert himself where he wasn’t wanted? What was his deal?I tried to steady my voice and not let my irritation show. “I just wanted to know why you’re here,” I said. “I made it clear earlier that I don’t want to have an
Logan's POV As Nadine exclaims in joy, "I could kiss you right now!" I feel a surge of desire. I have to restrain myself from giving in to her simple request. My cock twitches in my trousers, responding to her proximity, but I know I must resist.Instead, I slowly lean in and kiss her hair, trying to play it cool. I make my way outside, taking a deep breath to calm myself down. I don't want to compromise our budding cordial relationship.The fact that she accepted the gift is a positive sign, but my mind is elsewhere. I'm worried about the impending danger lurking in the shadows. Ethan is nowhere to be seen, and I don't know what he's planning. I need to be prepared, nothing can go wrong with Nadine and Shawn, not while I'm still alive.I pull out my phone to call Asher, eager to share the good news that Nadine accepted the necklace. But as I walk into my home, my mind starts to wander. I can't shake off the feeling that something is off, but I can't quite put my finger on it.I t
"Ethan," I mutter, my voice shaking with relief as he approaches me. But his face is stone cold, devoid of emotions. "Ethan, thank God you're here. Please, tell Sydney I'm not Isabelle. She's got the wrong person."But instead of helping me, Ethan takes a step closer, with a file in his hand. His voice is laced with anger, making my heart quiver. "Do you think I give a fuck what she does to you?" he growls.I'm taken aback, shocked by his words. "But...but I thought you were here to help me," I stutter."Do you think I'm here to exchange talks with you? I'm here to make sure she finishes you, just like planned."Ethan's words are like a death sentence. I'm trapped, with no escape from Sydney's wrath. "Oh, so you mean to tell me that this was a plan worked out between you two?" I ask, trying to process the betrayal.Sydney's face twists in a snarl. "You still have the mouth to say rubbish? Many authorities want you dead. And it will be with great pleasure to end your life.""Imagine
I struggle to break free, but their grip is like a vice. My heart races like a wild animal, and my mind spins with questions. Who are these people? Why are they doing this?I'm manhandled and pushed into the cab I had stopped to hail, my body flailing wildly as I try to break free. I try to shout, "Leave me the fuck alone!" but my voice is muffled by the cloth covering my face.I attempt to move my hand to pull it off, but I'm shocked to find my wrist bound by a cold metal cuff.My mind races with thoughts of my life being threatened. Fear grips me. I think about all the milestones my son will reach without me. His first day of school, his graduation, his wedding day... I'll never get to see them.Tears prick at the corners of my eyes as I think about my mom. She'll think I'm fine, but how long will it take her to realize something's wrong? Will she ever find out what happened to me?Ethan's face flashes in my mind. How will he feel when he finds out I've been taken? Will he be scared
I take a step back, trying to create some distance between us, as Logan’s face inches closer to mine. He notices my movement and hesitates."I'm sorry, I didn't mean to...you know," he trails off, his eyes searching mine for understanding.“I just wanted to say thank you...for choosing to have Shawn, despite everything between us before you left.”“He's my boy too, and I don't regret...any of it," I sayLogan nods, with a small smile on his lips. "Thank you anyway.”I study Logan's face, trying to read his intentions. I kinda like this new, softer side of him, but I wonder if it's just an act for Shawn’s sake. Either way, it's a welcome change."So..." I draw out the word, curious about what he's going to say next.Logan’s hand slips into his pocket, and he pulls out a small box. He holds it out to me, his eyes hopeful.I shake my head, hesitant to accept whatever is inside. "No, Logan, I don't want anything from you."He takes a step closer, his hand still extended. "Just take it, Na
"Wait, sorry, my bad," I say, moving the phone away from my ear to double-check the number. I was expecting Ethan's call, but this number is unfamiliar. Yet, the voice on the other end is unmistakable - Logan.I try to sound civil, for Shawn's sake. "What's up?" attempting to keep the tone light."Nothing much, Nadine. Did you sleep well?" I'm not interested in small talk, so I cut to the chase. "Yes, I did. Why are you calling?" The pause is brief, but I sense he hesitates before Logan speaks again. I wait, wondering what he wants to discuss."I was wondering if I can have my time with Shawn today," I recall Shawn's excitement earlier, asking to see his buddy today."Okay," I say, and I can almost hear Logan's sigh of relief on the other end of the line. I'm taken aback - I know he thinks I'll say no. But I'm done fighting; all I want is what's best for my son."What time are you coming?" I ask."I'm right outside your mom's house," his voice is a little stronger now. I glance out
As I turn to face him, my body stiffens, and my mind races with thoughts of what he might say. I hope it's not something that will break my heart. I try to compose myself, thinking of Shawn's needs first. "Please, I'll need to take care of Shawn, then I'll be back," I say, trying to sound calm."Can I carry him in my arms?" he asks, with emotion in his voice."Yes," I reply, but as I try to hand Shawn over, he clings to me like a lifeline. I couldn't force him to let go."I'm sorry, I'll need to go now, but I'll be back," I tell him, trying to reassure him as I make my way to take care of Shawn. I can feel his gaze on me, but I know I need to prioritize Shawn's needs right now.Part of me wants to turn back and confront whatever it is he wants to tell me.I focus on Shawn's tiny hands wrapped tightly around my finger, his big brown eyes looking up at me. I take a deep breath and push aside my worriesAs I care for Shawn, my mind swirls with a hundred thoughts. After finishing with his
I glance around the room, my heart pounds as I shift my gaze between Mum and Gabriel, trying to make sense of their argument or the secret they’re hiding.“Mum, please,” I say, my voice trembling. “What is going on? Can you just say it?” I gesture toward Gabriel. "I don’t even know this man, but if he can donate a kidney for you, he must mean something. Who is he? What does he want?"Mum meets my eyes for a second, then looks at Gabriel. Her lips press into a thin line as she squeezes her eyes shut. For a long moment, she’s silent, shaking her head slowly, as though wrestling with thoughts she can’t bring herself to say aloud.“Mum, what is this? Can you just say it and get it over with?” my patience wears thin. I can feel she has a secret she’s holding onto tightly.Before she can respond, a sharp, piercing scream echoes through the house. Shawn. He’s awake, and the absence of anyone around has startled him.Without a second thought, I dash to his room. He’s sitting on the bed, his
Nadine’s POVI toss and turn, barely getting a wink of sleep last night. But today is Saturday, and all I want to do is curl up in bed with my boy by my side. The thought of going back to my apartment exhausts me - I don't have the strength to face it. And honestly, I'm scared of unwanted guests showing up unannounced. My mind still reels from the near-attack at my apartment. All I crave is a peaceful day with my son, in the comfort of my mother's home. I need my coffee, so I quietly make my way downstairs to the kitchen, trying not to wake my son or mother, who I'm sure is still sleeping soundly in her room. Just as I'm pouring myself a cup of coffee, a sudden knock on the door startles me. I wonder who it could be, so I cautiously make my way to the door and slowly open it. On the other side, I see a well-dressed man around my dad's age, with a kind face and a warm smile. "Hello," I say nervously. "Hello," he replies, "I'm Gabriel, the kidney donor." His words take me by surp
Logan's POV As I watch, Ethan storms out of the house, his face thunderous. I know exactly what that means - the discussion between Nadine, and him in the backyard didn't go well. My mind starts racing with thoughts, each one tumbling over the other in a jumbled mess. I know I need to act fast, to be there for Nadine and Shawn. I can hear the panic in Nadine's voice, and my heart aches for her. In this moment, I wish we were a family - Nadine, Shawn, and me - united in our love for our child.But I know that's not possible, at least not yet. What I can do is make time for Shawn, to build a connection with him. I'm determined to make co-parenting work, no matter what it takes.I look at Nadine, I know I need to be careful. I shouldn't reveal too much to her, not yet. I'm not sure how well she can take it, and I don't want to add to her stress. So I'll bide my time, waiting for the right moment to share my thoughts and feelings with her. For now, I'll just be here for her, supporting