It was peaceful, but I couldn’t help the curiosity bubbling inside me. I glanced at him from the corner of my eye, taking in his relaxed posture and the small, confident smirk playing on his lips. “Why don’t you use your car, Mister Fancy Pants?” I teased, unable to resist poking fun at his polished demeanor. He chuckled softly, turning to look at me. “I like this better,” he said, his voice calm and steady. That response threw me off. I expected him to boast about some eco-conscious decision or a love for walking, but his answer felt... genuine. I clamped my mouth shut, unsure how to respond. The silence stretched between us again, but this time, it felt charged with unspoken words. And then, out of nowhere, Vincent broke it with a question that made my heart stop. “Can I court you?” he asked, his tone serious, though his lips curled into a playful grin. I stopped in my tracks, staring at him in disbelief. “What?” “Well,” he continued nonchalantly, taking a step closer t
The bed felt impossibly soft tonight, like I was lying on a cloud instead of my usual mattress. My thoughts were a whirlwind, replaying everything Vincent had said, every look he had given me. “Why me?” I had asked him earlier, and now, lying in the stillness of my room, I kept wondering the same thing. What did he see in me? What could someone like Vincent—polished, wealthy, and confident—possibly find so captivating about someone as ordinary as me? But then I remembered the way he looked at me, as if I was anything but ordinary. His words echoed in my mind, soothing yet electrifying. “Confidence is hoping you’ll like me back. Certainty is knowing I’ll do everything in my power to make sure you do.” I groaned, pulling the blanket over my head. “What am I supposed to do with that?” I whispered to the quiet room. The truth was, I didn’t know. I wasn’t sure if I could let someone like Vincent into my life, with all his intensity and charm. But at the same time, I couldn’t ignore
“It’s me.” Vincent’s voice came through the door, calm yet uncharacteristically tentative. I quickly got up and opened the door, finding him standing there with his hands in his pockets. He looked slightly disheveled, his hair tousled like he’d been running his fingers through it. “Vincent? What are you doing here?” I asked, surprised. “I couldn’t wait,” he admitted, his voice low. “I know I said you didn’t have to answer me right away, but I’ve been going crazy all day. I just… I need to know what you’re thinking.” I blinked, caught off guard by his honesty. “Vincent, I—” He held up a hand, stopping me. “Wait. Before you say anything, let me just say this.” He stepped closer, his dark eyes locking onto mine. “I don’t care how long it takes. I don’t care if you’re not ready. I’ll wait for you, Kirsten. As long as it takes.” His words hit me like a tidal wave, and I could feel my resolve weakening. Why did he have to be so genuine? So… him? “You’re making this really hard,
Vincent chuckled, his eyes twinkling. “Take all the time you need. I’m not going anywhere.”And in that moment, as he looked at me like I was the only person in the world, I realized something. Maybe this wasn’t just about surviving anymore. Maybe, just maybe, it was time to start living.Vincent's warm smile lingered in my mind even after he left the office to check on the restaurant floor. The realization that I had just confessed my feelings left me a mix of nervous and exhilarated. How could such a simple moment hold so much weight?I busied myself with restocking supplies, trying to distract my thoughts from spiraling. But the truth was, my heart wasn’t racing because of nerves—it was excitement. Vincent liked me, and I had admitted I liked him too.As the restaurant started to fill up for the evening, I caught glimpses of Vincent moving confidently through the space, checking on guests, chatting with the staff, and occasionally sneaking glances at me. I pretended not to notice,
“Vincent—” I started, but he held up a hand to stop me. “Hear me out,” he said, his tone earnest. “You’re talented, hardworking, and capable of so much more. I’ll support you. You can still work part-time at the restaurant while you study. It’s the perfect arrangement.” “Perfect for you,” I teased, narrowing my eyes at him. “What makes you think I’d agree to all this?” “Because,” he said, stepping closer, his voice softening. “I believe in you, Kirsten. And I want to see you chase every dream you’ve ever had. If I can make that easier for you, then why not?” I felt my heart tighten in my chest. His words weren’t just persuasive—they were heartfelt. And as much as I wanted to argue, I couldn’t deny the way his support made me feel like I could take on the world. “I’ll think about it,” I said finally, crossing my arms and trying to look stern. Vincent smirked, leaning down to meet my gaze. “That’s all I ask. But don’t think I won’t keep asking until you say yes.” I rolled my eyes
“Thank you,” I whispered, my heart swelling with emotion as I thought of him. For the first time in a long time, I wasn’t just surviving—I was living. And for that, I hoped this happiness would stay with me forever.—ANTONIUS POINT OF VIEW—When Robert reported back about the gala and all the other updates on Kirsten and Vincent’s whereabouts, I felt something I couldn’t quite put into words. It wasn’t just anger or jealousy—it was deeper than that. Something inside me cracked, like a wound that had been quietly festering but now tore open completely.The way Kirsten looked at Vincent, the way her eyes sparkled when she smiled at him—it was unbearable. She was falling into his trap, and I could do nothing but watch. How I wish I could save her, but here I am, powerless. A loser. She doesn’t even know me—not truly. What chance do I have against Vincent? He’s charming, calculated, and always two steps ahead.For the first time in my life, I felt envy—not for his wealth or status, but fo
I asked, my tone steady but cold, my eyes narrowing at his hesitation. He shook his head, and that was all I needed to know. It wasn’t good. I let out a heavy sigh, already bracing myself for the worst. "Go on," I gestured, leaning back in my chair, my fingers drumming against the armrest. Robert shifted nervously, avoiding my gaze. "I heard... that the two are in a relationship. Officially." The words hit me like a freight train, knocking the air out of my lungs. I stared at the floor, my mind racing. Relationship. Already. The word echoed in my head, each syllable slicing through me like a blade. My shoulders slumped as if the weight of the world had settled on them, and for a moment, I couldn’t speak. The room felt suffocating, the air thick with an unspoken tension. My thoughts spiraled, each one darker than the last. Vincent. That bastard. He had won. Or at least, it seemed like he had. He’d managed to wrap Kirsten in his web of lies, and now she was his. My fists clenched a
If Kirsten was happy, if she truly loved Vincent, what right did I have to interfere? But then again, how could she love someone like him? He was selfish, manipulative, and incapable of genuine care. He was using her—just like he used everyone else. And yet... what if she didn’t see that? What if she fell for his charm the way so many others had? I gritted my teeth, the frustration boiling over. I wouldn’t let that happen. But I had to tread carefully. Vincent was expecting me to lash out. He wanted me to lose control. If I confronted him now, it would play right into his hands. No, I’d wait. I’d be patient. Because when the time came, I wouldn’t just win—I’d make sure Vincent had no pieces left to play. And Kirsten... I closed my eyes, picturing her smile, the one I used to see when she brought me lunch every day. I didn’t deserve her. Not after everything. But that didn’t mean I’d stop fighting for her. Even if it broke me. For weeks, every report Robert brought me f
Anton reached for my hand, his fingers curling around mine in that reassuring way that always made me feel safe. “I’m right here with you.” Together, we made our way to the venue—a small, private room in a government building. It wasn’t extravagant, but it felt right. The judge greeted us warmly, and after a few moments of formalities, we stood facing each other, the weight of the moment settling around us. Anton’s eyes never left mine as the judge began to speak. I could feel the anticipation building in my chest, my emotions swirling. This was it. This was the beginning of everything. When it was time to exchange vows, Anton went first. “I promise to love you, cherish you, and stand by your side in every moment, no matter what comes our way. You are my heart, and I am yours.” Tears welled up in my eyes as he spoke, his words so genuine, so full of meaning. I could feel the sincerity in his voice, and my heart swelled with love for him. When it was my turn, I took a deep breath,
As we stepped through the door, our hands still intertwined, the world outside seemed distant. The comfort of our home wrapped around us like a warm blanket. Anton pulled me close, his arms slipping around my waist as he held me from behind. I could feel his breath against my neck, soft and warm, as he kissed me slowly, tenderly."Mrs. Rockwell," he whispered, his voice teasing, sending a shiver down my spine. His words were full of promise, of a future that, no matter how uncertain, felt like it was finally within reach.I let out a soft laugh, the sound light and carefree. "Not yet," I replied, glancing back at him, my eyes meeting his with a playful glint.His lips curled into a mischievous grin, the kind that made my heart race. "Oh, you will soon," he said, his voice low and intimate, as he tightened his hold on me just enough to make my heart flutter. "And I want you to practice a new signature with my surname in it soon."His words hung in the air, heavy with significance. It w
I smiled, a warm glow spreading through me. "I'm glad we took the chance. I can't imagine my life without you now."As we shared a tender kiss, the fire crackled once more, as if celebrating our newfound love. The sofa, witness to our passionate encounter, seemed to sigh contentedly, its cushions inviting them to stay a while longer. And so they did, wrapped in each other's arms, lost in a world where only they existed, a world filled with love, passion, and the promise of a future together."When did you fall in love with me, Anton?" I asked, my voice soft as I looked up at him.He smirked, his fingers lightly tracing patterns on my arm. "I fell for you when you were just a delivery girl," he admitted with a chuckle.I giggled, remembering those days. "I was so naive back then. I only wanted to get your attention so you would hire me. That’s why I started sending those special meals to your office. I thought if I impressed you enough, you’d give me a job."Anton smiled as if recallin
I stopped, turning my head slightly, but I didn’t let go of Anton’s hand. “Yes?”He hesitated, his lips parting and closing as though he couldn’t quite find the words. Finally, he spoke, his voice quieter now. “Do you think I even deserve peace? After everything I’ve done to you… to both of you?”I sighed, glancing at Anton, who gave my hand a small squeeze. He didn’t intervene, allowing me to face Vincent on my own terms. “It’s not about deserving it, Vincent,” I said gently. “It’s about whether or not you want it. Whether or not you’re willing to change and work toward it.”He leaned back in his chair, his cuffed hands resting heavily on the armrests. His gaze fell to the floor as if searching for answers in the patterns of the tiles. “I don’t know if I can live with the guilt. Every time I think about what I’ve done… it’s like it’s eating me alive.”“Then stop running from it,” I said firmly. “Face it. Own your mistakes and make amends where you can. That’s the only way you’ll ever
He looked down at his cuffed hands, his voice lowering to a whisper. "So, I took advantage of it. Out of jealousy, out of spite. I wanted to take away something he cared about, something he might love, just to prove I could. I wanted to hurt him the way I thought he had hurt me... and you became the collateral damage."His words hit me like a tidal wave, and for a moment, I couldn’t breathe. All this time, I had thought Vincent’s actions were about me, about control, about possession. But now I realized—it was never about me. It was about his insecurities, his bitterness toward Anton, and his need to win a game only he was playing."You used me..." I whispered, the hurt evident in my voice.Vincent’s eyes met mine, and for the first time, they weren’t filled with arrogance or anger. They were filled with regret. "I did," he confessed. "And I’ll regret it for the rest of my life.""I can’t believe you..." I whispered, my voice trembling with disbelief and pain.Vincent nodded slowly, h
"Anton..." I hesitated, my fingers twisting nervously in my lap as I searched for the courage to voice what had been weighing on my mind. "Can I meet him?"The room fell silent, the air suddenly thick with tension. Anton’s jaw tightened, his usually soft eyes hardening as they locked onto mine. "Why do you want to meet him, Kirsten?" His voice was calm, but there was an unmistakable edge to it.I took a deep breath, steadying myself. "Because I feel like I need to," I said softly. "To free myself from him completely—for real this time. I need closure, Anton. I need to look him in the eyes and tell him that we’re done. And... I want him to ask for forgiveness."Anton’s gaze didn’t waver, but I could see the conflict brewing behind his eyes. For a moment, I thought he’d argue, tell me it was unnecessary, that I didn’t need to reopen that chapter of my life.But then, to my surprise, he nodded. "If that’s what you need," he said quietly, his voice firm but filled with understanding, "I’l
The days passed like a dream—soft, fleeting, and almost unreal. I hadn’t been counting them because, for the first time in years, I was truly happy. But that happiness was laced with an edge of unease, especially when Anton told me what had happened.Vincent had been captured. By Anton’s men.The news left a strange weight in my chest, and though I tried to push it aside, it lingered."What are you going to do to your brother, Anton?" I asked, my voice quiet but firm as I sat across from him in the spacious living room.Anton leaned back in his chair, his sharp features illuminated by the soft glow of the chandelier. His brow arched slightly, a smirk tugging at his lips. "You sound like you’re worried about him."I hesitated, unsure how to answer that. Was I?Despite the cruel way Vincent had treated me, a part of me couldn’t deny that he had once been a significant part of my life. But worry? Love? Those feelings had long since faded."I’m not worried about him," I said, shaking my h
I learned from him that Vincent had resorted to sending death threats, demanding Anton leave the country. My stomach turned at the revelation. It was a side of Vincent I hadn’t fully understood until now. Anton, however, seemed unfazed, stating firmly, “He’ll pay for that. I’ll make sure he does. Threatening me gives me the leverage I need to put him behind bars.”The thought of Vincent—once the man I thought I loved—going to prison left me torn. A part of me felt justice was inevitable, but another part still struggled to reconcile this side of him with the man I had once known.And then there was Anton. The man who had been a stranger not so long ago but now felt like a lifeline. It was surreal to think back to the days when I would deliver lunches to his company, never once imagining that the CEO himself was aware of me. And now, here I was, living under the same roof with him."Can you believe this?" I murmured to myself one evening as I stood by the window, looking out at the exp
His eyes narrowed, and for a moment, I thought he might lash out. But instead, he turned away, laughing bitterly. "We’ll see about that," he muttered, disappearing into his bedroom and slamming the door behind him. I exhaled shakily, my entire body trembling. This wasn’t living. This was survival. I picked up my phone and opened Anton’s message again. Without overthinking, I typed: Me: I need your help. I hit send and waited, my heart pounding in my chest. Within seconds, his reply came. Anton: I’ll be there in the morning. I stared at the message, a mix of relief and fear washing over me. Tomorrow, things would change. Whether for better or worse, I didn’t know. But one thing was certain—I couldn’t keep living like this. The morning light filtered through the curtains, and I sat on the edge of the bed, staring blankly at the floor. My heart felt heavy, weighed down by everything that had happened the night before. Vincent’s words still echoed in my mind—his possessiveness, hi