Kiara's pov
I stood in the corner of the office, watching the whole drama with amusement. Miriam was clinging to Leo like her life depended on it, for whatever reason; she really did seem incapable of letting go. "Leo, forget about Kiara," she purred with a sweet yet controlled voice. "I will come up with another project, I'll lead it myself and bring Williams & Co. back on its feet." She fluttered her lashes as if to ply him with that, but it only darkened Leo's expression. He did not even attempt to mask his irritation. "That's enough, Miriam," he commanded and brushed her off so forcefully that she stumbled backward. I smirked at the sight of her faltering. Miriam, always acted like she was untouchable. How satisfying it felt seeing her caught off guard. "You know what Miriam," I said with my arms folded. "Your designs are trash just like your ideas. If you worked more and schemed less, probably you wouldn't be making a fool of yourself this way." Her face turned red and anger surfaced. "You!" she snapped, taking a closer step to me. I raised an eyebrow, daring her to do something but Leo stopped her before she could even react. "Leave," he said sharply, his voice cutting straight through the tension. "But babe-" "Don't," he cut off, this tone warning her not to test his patience any further. "Just leave. Now." Miriam stood there for a second with her lips very thinly pressed, but she finally turned and stormed out of the room. "Good riddance," I muttered under my breath before I could also make my exist as well, Leo's voice stopped me. "Kiara." I turned to him with my arms still crossed. "What now?" "We need to talk, just the two of us," he said, softer now. I scoffed, shaking my head. "Look, Leo, I told you before; I am not going to change my mind. And there is nothing to discuss." I was about to take another step but Leo grabbed my wrist. his grip wasn't harsh but It was strong enough to stop me. "Leo, let go off me," I said, glaring at him. But he didn't let go. instead he continued to pull me along with him. "Leo, what are you doing?" I asked, stumbling slightly in an attempt to keep up with him. Not a word came from his mouth. Before I knew it, we were in a small, empty room. He closed the door behind us and faces me with an inscrutable countenance. "Let me go," I said with a yank to my arm. "Kiara," he started in a low-yet-intense voice, "what are you doing? Are you trying to punish me for past mistakes?" I laughed bitterly. "Punish you? Don't flatter yourself, Leo. You're no longer that important to me." He flinched at my words,but he continued. "I've apologized a hundred times. I still want you...my wife." I stiffened, my jaw tightening. "Don't you dare call me that," I hissed. "You're only saying this because of the project. Admit it." "No kiara," he said, eyes locking into mine. "It's not just about the project. I still love you. I came back for you that day, but you were gone. I've been searching for you ever since." "What am I doing with that information? ohhh am supposed to feel good that the Almighty Leo has been searching for me." "And did I hear you mention Love?" I said, the word bitter on my tongue. "That word died long ago, Leo. Just like—" Before I could finish, he closed the gap between us, kissing me passionately. For a moment, I stood frozen, caught off guard by the sheer suddenness of it. But then, reality set in, and I shoved him away with all my energy. "Don't you dare," I spat, wiping my lips as if they'd been tainted by his touch. "Kiara, I-" "Let me go!" I commanded, my voice sharp and unwavering. When he still didn't release me, I raised my knee and stroke him hard on his third leg. He groaned with pain and stumbled back, clutching himself. "It hurts, doesn't it?" I mocked him with a smirk on my lips. "Kiara, what the hell is wrong with you? " he snapped, voice strained. "What is wrong with me?" I shot at him. "And what's wrong with you? Pretending to want me when your mistress is just outside waiting for you?" "Kiara, I--" "Save it," I interrupted, raising my hand, i turned to leave but on reaching the door nob, he rushed to block my exit. "Move," I said pushing him aside. He stumbled but quickly grabbed my leg in a gesture of clear desperation. "What is this?" I snapped, gazing at him in disbelief. "This pathetic, and I haven't even started yet." "Please, Kiara," he begged, his voice low. "Don't give up on the project nor refuse to work with me. I'll do anything you want me to do-anything. Just don't walk away." His touch still has an effect that it used to have over me back then but I quickly shook it off, kicking his hand off me. "You think you have the right to ask for help from me?" I said, my voice filled with anger. "After everything you and your mistress put me through? Do you even know how close I came to dying five years ago " His face paled and guilt clouded him. "Kiara, I... I'm so sorry. I never-" "Save your apologies," I spat, shoving him aside. "I don't need them. I don't need you. Stay away from me." I turned to leave but he stopped me with his next words. "I'll do anything you want," he said again, voice trembling. "Anything at all. Just name it." I stopped, a slow smile creeping on my face as I turned to face him "Anything?" "Yes," he said; with a desperate-sounding voice: "Just don't make them remove me from the contract." "Fine," I said, folding my arms. "If you're serious, you'll transfer to me 55% decision-making rights and shares in Williams & Co. for the duration of this project." His eyes widened in disbelief. "You can't be serious!" I smirked, stepping closer. "Oh, I'm dead serious. Take it or leave it, Leo. Your choice."Leo's povI could hear the door slamming after her, leaving a heavy silence in its wake. I was unable to move, her words playing inside my head. Fifty-five percent?The next voice I heard,made my skin crawl."Isn't this pathetic ?"Miriam.I could bet my last buck that she was standing arms folded, her face twisted in a cruel smirk and the chuckling accompanied by that annoying drawl of her voice said, "Leo Williams," dragging it out like it was some kind of hilarious joke. "The mighty CEO, crawling on the floor for his ex-wife's approval. Gosh! I wish I had a camera."I forced myself to stand, brushing off my pants as I turned to face her. "Miriam, not now.""Oh not now?" she said, her voice rising in mock disbelief. "Not now? Leo, do you have any idea how ridiculous you look? Crawling to her after everything we've done to build this company?""Everything we've done ?" I let out a dry, humorless laugh. "You mean everything you've done to destroy her? Don't act innocent here."She smi
Kiara's pov "Why didn't I think of this earlier?" I muttered to myself as I paused my walk. "Miriam..I should have added her to the list. Just imagine her in my office running all the major errands and swallowing down all the insults I will dish out to her. That would be hell for her. I can imagine her face right now"The thought of it was so satisfying that I couldn't resist to smirk. But no, it wasn't too late. I was in charge here. Leo needed me more than I needed him, and I fully intend to get every ounce of power out of this situation.I turned back to Leo, who was already sitting down but looking at him, he looked so sad but that shouldn't bother me."There's one more thing," I said, folding my arms across my chest."What could that be again, Kiara?" he grunted."Don't give me that look," I said, arching a brow. "You didn't think this was going to be that easy, did you?"His glare didn't scare me at all. I leaned against the desk, letting my voice drip with sarcasm for maximum
Leo's povA sleek black car had pulled up, and a man stepped out, a man I recognized instantly. Alex Carter.I froze, watching as he walked around to greet her, his face lighting up in a way that made me clench my fists. Kiara's laughter rang out faintly as she hugged him, her arms wrapping around him in a way that felt too intimate, too natural.He also went ahead to open the car door for her, his hand sliding lightly across her back as she entered with a smile.I stood at the window watching the vehicle drive away. My chest was tight, the anger and regret stirring in me was something I had never learnt to control.Alex Carter. Of course, it was him. The man she always referred to as just a friend, just a childhood friend. Could it be he is the one who picked up the pieces I broke?Before I could process it, the door to my office flew open with a bang.Miriam stormed in, the sound of her heels against the tiled floor was like a warning siren. The expression on her face was a mixture
Kiara's povI had barely settled into my new office, when I heard the sharp click of heels, next was the sound of a door slamming shut with force. I smiled mischievously knowing that Miriam had just arrived in her new office.She went on opening drawers and slamming it with force. Papers were shuffled aggressively. I can feel her frustration from my office. I just leaned back in my chair letting the sounds of her rage fill the space as I prepare for the morning meeting. It's very clear that she wasn't taking her demotion lightly, and honestly, I wouldn't have expected anything less.A knock on the door interrupted my thoughts. "Yes, come in," I called out while neatly adjusting my posture.The door opened, and Jane, Leo's assistant, came in with a beaming smile. In her hands was a steaming cup of coffee."Ma'am your coffee," she said and carefully put it on my desk.I blinked in surprise, "But I didn't ask for coffee."Jane hesitated for a moment before saying, "It's from Mr. Leo. H
Leo’s povI went back to my office after Kiara left, sank back into my office seat, loosened my tie, and let out a long breath. The weight on my chest was heavier than usual and it wasn't really about the project, rather it was Kiara that occupied my thoughts.I leaned back in my seat, faced my head to the ceiling and then I shut my eyes closed. memories of her flooding back into my mind. Her laughter at my jokes, the many lazy Sundays she would curl up beside me, the way she used to look at me as though I was her entire world. How had I allowed that to slip away?I opened my eyes and glanced through the window, Where I had a clear view of her office. She was pacing inside, with her phone pressed to her ear, having an animated conversation. She was so engrossed in the conversation.What if she was talking with Alex? The thought struck me. The thought of Alex made my jaw clenched. Seeing them together that very day, the way she laughed with him and hugged him so tight. It felt like a
Kiara's povI walked into the office building with a sense of determination, as if I was ready to take the world. Although I remembered Miriam's little stunt yesterday but I'm always ready to remind her who was still in charge. The team was very much busy-some were sketching layouts, some were discussing colors, and a few others were reviewing lists of vendors. It was just the sort of energy one is expected to find in any professional environment.But as I went closer to my office, my eyes fell on Miriam. She slouched in her chair, completely glued to her phone, her fingers lazily scrolling while a faint smile played on her lips. Every other person looked focused and was working hard to see to the success of this project, but Miriam sat there like it wasn't any of her business.The sight of her small office was a total mess. Papers lay scattered all over her desk, an empty coffee cup was also at the edge of the table. I shook my head,let out a breath, squared my shoulders, and strol
Alex POV I finished work earlier than usual today, so I decided to surprise Kiara at her office. she loves surprises and I know that the bouquet of red roses in my hand will earn me one of her heartwarming smiles "I'm here to see Miss Kiara," I told the receptionist, as i adjust my blazer. I was wearing a clean white button ups shirt tucked neatly into a navy-blue trousers, paired with a fitted charcoal-grey blazer which gave me a perfect look. My black leather loafers shoe shunned under the office lights and my expensive Rolex wristwatch adorned my wrist. The fragrance of the roses, mixed with my cologne, creating an aroma that I know Kiara would love. The receptionist glanced up at me with a curious expression. "Is she expecting you sir," she asked. "Uhmm not really," I admitted with a sly smile. "It's a surprise." She smiled a knowing smile, seeing the bouquet on my hand. " You can go right in, sir. First door on the left." "Thank you", I replied nodding politely wi
Kiara's povI was preparing a cup of coffee for myself in the kitchen, my mind already thinking about the long day ahead. I decided to go sit at the dining table, when I turned, I saw Alex leaning against the door frame. I almost threw my cup of coffee. I didn't know he spent the night at my place after the incident yesterday, so I wasn't expecting anybody. "Jezzz! you scared me.""Sorry,I didn't mean to." he said, stepping aside.I walked past him and sat at the dining table.He came and sat next to me,there was a silent tension between us."About yesterday—" he finally said, breaking the silence.I raised an eyebrow, sipping my coffee. "What about it?"He cast his gaze downward and raised it up almost immediately."I didn't expect Sandra to show up like that, I was just as surprised as you were, and I'm sorry if I didn't handle the situation well." "It's fine. You couldn't have done anything more than what you did and it's not your fault she behaved like a mad dog.” I let out a dry
Kiara’s POVI got back home so tired. I quickly showered and changed into my fine silk nightwear. As I lay on my bed, I exhaled heavily, my thoughts still racing from earlier. “I will make sure such doesn't happen again and I will protect my baby with everything in me. It doesn't matter if Leo has seen her” I muttered to myself.I quickly reached for my phone and dialed Alex’s number."You wouldn’t believe what happened today?" I blurted out the moment he picked up.Alex’s tone sharpened with concern. "What? Tell me."My hand landed on my forehead as I bit my lips. "Sophia came to my office today.""What?! How did her nanny allow that?""Long story," I sighed, rubbing my temple, "Amelia explained to me everything, and I get her reasons, but that's not the main issue here. Guess what happened next?”There was a beat of silence. Then Alex's voice dropped. "Leo saw her.""Exactly!" I exhaled sharply, pacing the room. "That was my biggest fear all this time. I didn’t want him to see her,
Leo’s POVI walked out of Kiara’s office, gripping the file in my hand, but my mind was already far from the damn paperwork.My thoughts were filled with Sophia, her smile, and most especially, her eyes. Those eyes appeared to be so familiar that they sent some indescribable current through me. Her long, dark hair framed her small face and when she blinked up at me I felt an odd recognition that I could not explain. I walked back to my office, feeling my grip tighten on the file.I slammed the door behind me as I cursed under my breath upon entering my office. The noise echoed throughout the room, doing nothing to calm the storm that raged within me.I threw the file onto my desk and yanked my tie, loosening the suffocating knot around my throat. Frustration pulsed through my veins.I did a quick calculation in my head…”I'm sure she's not more than four or five” I murmured.The time I took a closer look at her, I felt this connection between us.The way her nose scrunched slightly wh
Kiara’s POVMy heartbeat was beating so fast, after what had just happened earlier between me and Leo.My lips tingle from where his finger had brushed against them; my mind was a mess of frustration. “Why did I even allow him to get hold of me like that?” I muttered to myself.I shook my head, running a hand through my hair. Damn him!Leo had always been good at getting under my skin, but I wouldn’t let him win this time. I wouldn’t fall for his charm again. I inhaled a deep breath, putting my focus back to work, when suddenly, my office door swung open.“Mummy!”On looking out, Sophia already flew into my legs, wrapping her small arms around me.I froze. My eyes widened in shock.“What… Sophia?” My voice came out in disbelief.I quickly glanced up and saw her nanny, Amelia, standing at the door, looking apologetic.“Ma, please don’t be offended,” Amelia said breathlessly. “She was crying so badly and wouldn’t stop saying she needed to see you.”I was still in shock. Sophia had never
Kiara's povI was preparing a cup of coffee for myself in the kitchen, my mind already thinking about the long day ahead. I decided to go sit at the dining table, when I turned, I saw Alex leaning against the door frame. I almost threw my cup of coffee. I didn't know he spent the night at my place after the incident yesterday, so I wasn't expecting anybody. "Jezzz! you scared me.""Sorry,I didn't mean to." he said, stepping aside.I walked past him and sat at the dining table.He came and sat next to me,there was a silent tension between us."About yesterday—" he finally said, breaking the silence.I raised an eyebrow, sipping my coffee. "What about it?"He cast his gaze downward and raised it up almost immediately."I didn't expect Sandra to show up like that, I was just as surprised as you were, and I'm sorry if I didn't handle the situation well." "It's fine. You couldn't have done anything more than what you did and it's not your fault she behaved like a mad dog.” I let out a dry
Alex POV I finished work earlier than usual today, so I decided to surprise Kiara at her office. she loves surprises and I know that the bouquet of red roses in my hand will earn me one of her heartwarming smiles "I'm here to see Miss Kiara," I told the receptionist, as i adjust my blazer. I was wearing a clean white button ups shirt tucked neatly into a navy-blue trousers, paired with a fitted charcoal-grey blazer which gave me a perfect look. My black leather loafers shoe shunned under the office lights and my expensive Rolex wristwatch adorned my wrist. The fragrance of the roses, mixed with my cologne, creating an aroma that I know Kiara would love. The receptionist glanced up at me with a curious expression. "Is she expecting you sir," she asked. "Uhmm not really," I admitted with a sly smile. "It's a surprise." She smiled a knowing smile, seeing the bouquet on my hand. " You can go right in, sir. First door on the left." "Thank you", I replied nodding politely wi
Kiara's povI walked into the office building with a sense of determination, as if I was ready to take the world. Although I remembered Miriam's little stunt yesterday but I'm always ready to remind her who was still in charge. The team was very much busy-some were sketching layouts, some were discussing colors, and a few others were reviewing lists of vendors. It was just the sort of energy one is expected to find in any professional environment.But as I went closer to my office, my eyes fell on Miriam. She slouched in her chair, completely glued to her phone, her fingers lazily scrolling while a faint smile played on her lips. Every other person looked focused and was working hard to see to the success of this project, but Miriam sat there like it wasn't any of her business.The sight of her small office was a total mess. Papers lay scattered all over her desk, an empty coffee cup was also at the edge of the table. I shook my head,let out a breath, squared my shoulders, and strol
Leo’s povI went back to my office after Kiara left, sank back into my office seat, loosened my tie, and let out a long breath. The weight on my chest was heavier than usual and it wasn't really about the project, rather it was Kiara that occupied my thoughts.I leaned back in my seat, faced my head to the ceiling and then I shut my eyes closed. memories of her flooding back into my mind. Her laughter at my jokes, the many lazy Sundays she would curl up beside me, the way she used to look at me as though I was her entire world. How had I allowed that to slip away?I opened my eyes and glanced through the window, Where I had a clear view of her office. She was pacing inside, with her phone pressed to her ear, having an animated conversation. She was so engrossed in the conversation.What if she was talking with Alex? The thought struck me. The thought of Alex made my jaw clenched. Seeing them together that very day, the way she laughed with him and hugged him so tight. It felt like a
Kiara's povI had barely settled into my new office, when I heard the sharp click of heels, next was the sound of a door slamming shut with force. I smiled mischievously knowing that Miriam had just arrived in her new office.She went on opening drawers and slamming it with force. Papers were shuffled aggressively. I can feel her frustration from my office. I just leaned back in my chair letting the sounds of her rage fill the space as I prepare for the morning meeting. It's very clear that she wasn't taking her demotion lightly, and honestly, I wouldn't have expected anything less.A knock on the door interrupted my thoughts. "Yes, come in," I called out while neatly adjusting my posture.The door opened, and Jane, Leo's assistant, came in with a beaming smile. In her hands was a steaming cup of coffee."Ma'am your coffee," she said and carefully put it on my desk.I blinked in surprise, "But I didn't ask for coffee."Jane hesitated for a moment before saying, "It's from Mr. Leo. H
Leo's povA sleek black car had pulled up, and a man stepped out, a man I recognized instantly. Alex Carter.I froze, watching as he walked around to greet her, his face lighting up in a way that made me clench my fists. Kiara's laughter rang out faintly as she hugged him, her arms wrapping around him in a way that felt too intimate, too natural.He also went ahead to open the car door for her, his hand sliding lightly across her back as she entered with a smile.I stood at the window watching the vehicle drive away. My chest was tight, the anger and regret stirring in me was something I had never learnt to control.Alex Carter. Of course, it was him. The man she always referred to as just a friend, just a childhood friend. Could it be he is the one who picked up the pieces I broke?Before I could process it, the door to my office flew open with a bang.Miriam stormed in, the sound of her heels against the tiled floor was like a warning siren. The expression on her face was a mixture