CHAPTER 25SOPHIA’S POV I sat at my desk, trying to focus on my writing, my mind kept betraying me. It replayed the memory of that passionate kiss with Henry. The sensation of his lips against mine, the warmth of his embrace—it all felt too vivid to be just a figment of my imagination. I scolded myself, convinced that no such thing had happened. I was an adult, and my fantasies should stay in the realm of fiction.My internal struggle was interrupted by a knock on my bedroom door, followed by Henry's entrance. I looked up at him with a frown, ready to fend off another scolding. "What do you want now? Another lecture?" I asked, my irritation seeping into my voice.Henry shook his head, his expression earnest. "No, Sophia, I'm not here to lecture you," he replied calmly. "I came to apologize."I raised an eyebrow, surprised by his unexpected admission. "Apologize? For what?"He sighed, clearly choosing his words carefully. "Look, Sophia, I know you're an adult, and you have every right
CHAPTER 26SOPHIA’S POVI sauntered into the dining room, the morning light dancing across the table, and found Henry already seated, lost in thought. His furrowed brows and distant gaze made me wonder if it was too early to ask for a favor. But I couldn't let that deter me. With a cheerful smile, I greeted him."Good morning, Henry," I began, trying to set a positive tone. "I've got a little favor to ask."He looked up, his eyes meeting mine with a mixture of curiosity and caution. "Sure thing, Sophia. You know you can ask me anything."Encouraged by his response, I leaned in slightly, my voice tinged with enthusiasm. "I want to intern at your company."Henry's response came quicker than I expected, and it was not what I wanted to hear. "No."My smile wavered for a brief moment as I tried to process his answer. "But you said I could ask you anything."He let out a resigned sigh, his expression unwavering. "I did, but this is something I can't agree to."My determination flared, and I
CHAPTER 27HENRY’S POV Layla and I strolled hand in hand through the serene corridors of the aquarium. The soft blue glow of the tanks bathed us in an otherworldly light, and the mesmerizing dance of fish captured our attention."Look at those angelfish," I pointed to a pair gracefully gliding through the water. "They look like they're wearing evening gowns."Layla laughed, her eyes sparkling. "They certainly do! I've always found the underwater world fascinating."We moved on to the next tank, home to a school of neon tetras. Their iridescent bodies shimmered as they darted around, creating a vibrant spectacle."These little guys are like nature's disco lights," I remarked.Layla nodded in agreement. "It's incredible how such small creatures can bring so much color and life to the world."As we continued our exploration, we found ourselves in front of a tank filled with clownfish. One of them, with its vibrant orange stripes, caught Layla's attention."Hey, check this out," she said
CHAPTER 28 SOPHIA’S POV I woke up that morning with a silent prayer on my lips, hoping that the day wouldn't bring another clash with Henry. It was like a never-ending cycle, one minute we were all smiles, and the next we were locked in heated arguments. I longed for a peaceful day, devoid of tension and drama.As I descended the stairs, I couldn't help but wonder what the day had in store. To my surprise, Henry wasn't alone in the living room. My heart leaped with joy when I spotted my father standing there, looking as distinguished and loving as ever. Without a moment's hesitation, I rushed to him, engulfing him in a bear hug."Daddy!" I exclaimed, feeling an overwhelming surge of affection. "I've missed you."His warm embrace enveloped me, just as I remembered it from my childhood. "I've missed you too, Sophia," he replied, his voice filled with genuine affection.But before I could savor the precious reunion any longer, Henry chimed in with a teasing grin, "Ah, a real daddy's gi
CHAPTER 29SOPHIA’S POVI took a deep breath, mentally preparing myself for what lay ahead. I had made a decision, one that was challenging my pride and stubbornness. I needed to give Kayla a chance, not only for my father's sake but for my own peace of mind. I sought out my dad and found him in his study, engrossed in some paperwork. He looked up, his eyes lighting up when he saw me."Hey, sweetie," he greeted, his smile warm and inviting."Dad," I began, trying to keep my voice steady, "I... I'm sorry for the way I reacted earlier. I want to make an effort to get to know Kayla."His smile widened, and he stood up, coming over to hug me tightly. "That's wonderful, Sophia. You won't regret it."With a sigh of relief, I went up to my father's bedroom, steeling myself for the next part of my mission. I opened the door, and there she was—Kayla, sitting on the edge of the bed, looking perfectly at ease in our home.I walked up to her, my expression stern, and she glanced up, her eyes mee
CHAPTER 30HENRY’S POVThe next day, Collins and I sat in my living room, sipping on our glasses of whiskey. The evening was calm, and the amber liquid in our glasses seemed to be doing its job in relaxing our weary souls."You know, Henry," Collins began, his voice slightly slurred from the whiskey, "I really think Kayla might be the one."I raised an eyebrow, intrigued by his sudden declaration. "The one? You mean like the one you'll marry?"Collins nodded, a goofy smile spreading across his face. "Yeah, man, I mean it. She's different, you know? She's got this charm that just draws you in."I couldn't help but chuckle at his lovesick expression. "Well, that's great, Collins. I'm happy for you."He took another sip of his whiskey and then turned the conversation in my direction. "So, Henry, what about you? Why aren't you dating anyone?"I sighed, not entirely sure I wanted to delve into this topic. But Collins was persistent, and he knew me well enough not to let things slide."Look
CHAPTER 31SOPHIA’S POVI couldn't shake the whirlwind of emotions and complications that had become my life recently. So, I did what I always did when I needed a reality check, a laugh, or just some good old-fashioned advice – I called Kylie.As soon as she picked up, I dived right into the drama. "Girl, you won't believe the mess I'm in right now. Remember Henry? Well, he's been giving me those judgmental, 'I know what's best for you' lectures, and it's driving me insane."Kylie chuckled on the other end. "Oh, dear. What did he say this time?"I groaned dramatically. "He's upset because I've been pretending to date Jason. Can you believe it? And the worst part is that he's right. I can't keep lying to my dad like this, but I don't know how to fix it without making everything more complicated."Kylie's laughter was infectious. "Well, well, well, Sophia, you've gotten yourself into quite the telenovela, haven't you?"I rolled my eyes, even though she couldn't see me. "Yeah, yeah, laug
CHAPTER 32SOPHIA’S POVI had barely set foot inside the house when there he was, like a guardian of the threshold, waiting for me with that all-too-familiar stern expression."Now that your father is gone," Henry began, his arms crossed defiantly, "I don't want to see Jason in this house."I sighed, dropping my bag unceremoniously on the floor. "Henry, we've been through this. You know Jason is my friend and we are pretty close he also advise me on my course, he could basically be my boyfriend , not just some random guy."He shook his head, his frustration palpable. "Sophia, you and I both know that Jason is just a pretend boyfriend you lied to your dad about. This charade has gone on long enough."I bristled at his accusation, my defenses going up like a fortress. "It's not a charade, Henry. Jason and I are talking about being together , and I care about him." I knew I was lying about the being together part but I wanted to spice things up a bit especially with all the headache he h
CHAPTER 74SOPHIA’S POVThe poolside was awash with vibrant hues of twilight as we continued our celebration. Laughter and joy lingered in the air like a sweet melody. Then, unexpectedly, my father and Kayla, who had been exchanging glances filled with unspoken understanding, dropped to one knee simultaneously.I blinked, my eyes darting between them. "Wait, what's happening here?"My father, wearing a grin that could rival a Cheshire cat, spoke first. "Well, Sophia, it seems that Kayla and I have been sharing a little secret. What do you think about becoming a part of our little alliance?"My jaw dropped. "Wait, alliance? Are you guys starting a secret society without me?"Kayla chuckled. "Not exactly. Your dad and I have been conspiring to make this official for a while now." She held out her hand, and on her finger glittered a ring—a symbol of the partnership they were proposing.My father, ever the eloquent one, added, "Sophia, would you do us the honor of having Kayla officially
CHAPTER 73HENRY’S POVThe hospital cafeteria was a strange setting for what I anticipated would be a heart-to-heart with Collins. As I sat there, nursing a lukewarm cup of coffee, I couldn't shake off the feeling of awkwardness that hung in the air. Then, out of the blue, Collins appeared, his gaze meeting mine with a mix of weariness and curiosity."Mind if I join you?" he asked, a hint of hesitation in his voice.I gestured to the empty chair opposite me. "Be my guest. I could use some company that doesn't involve hospital gowns and sterile hallways."Collins chuckled, a sound that resonated with the camaraderie we once shared. He took a seat, and for a moment, the silence lingered, each of us seemingly lost in our thoughts.After a sip of coffee, Collins cleared his throat, breaking the quiet tension. "Henry, I owe you an apology."I raised an eyebrow, genuinely surprised by his admission. "Apology? I never thought I'd hear that from you."He nodded solemnly, a seriousness settlin
CHAPTER 72HENRY’S POVThe sterile scent of the hospital room began to fade as laughter and chatter filled the air. Sophia and I were seated on the bed, sharing a moment of solace, when the door burst open, and in came Kylie, a whirlwind of energy and excitement."Sophia!" Kylie exclaimed, rushing over to hug her friend. "I've been trying to reach you for days. What happened? Are you okay?"Sophia's eyes sparkled with surprise and joy. "Kylie, you're here!"I smiled, realizing how much Sophia needed her friend at this moment. "Hey, Kylie. I'm Henry, by the way."Kylie turned toward me, extending a hand with a warm grin. "Oh, Henry! Sophia's told me so much about you. It's a pleasure finally to meet the man who's captured her heart."I chuckled, shaking her hand. "Likewise, Kylie. I've heard a lot about you too."Sophia, now sandwiched between us, looked genuinely happy. "Guys, this is amazing! I can't believe you're both here."Kylie pulled a chair closer, joining us in our little cir
CHAPTER 71HENRY’S POVI sat at my desk, trying to focus on the paperwork before me, but my mind kept drifting to Sophia. It had been days since we last spoke, and a heavy cloud of worry hung over me. The door to my office creaked open, and Lynda, my ever-curious assistant, sauntered in."Hey, Henry. Any news from Sophia?" Her voice carried a note of concern, mirrored by the furrow on her brow.I sighed, my eyes betraying the distress within. "No, not a word. I'm starting to get really worried."As if on cue, my phone buzzed, a glimmer of hope sparking in my chest. I answered, only to be met with Kayla's trembling voice. "Henry, it's Sophia. She's in the hospital. She overdosed."My heart sank, the weight of those words pressing down on me like a ton of bricks. "What? I'm on my way," I stammered, scrambling to grab my coat.Lynda, ever the pragmatic one, tried to hold me back. "Henry, rushing there might not be the best idea. You could complicate things."I shot her a sharp look, my d
CHAPTER 70 COLLIN’S POV The morning sun cast long shadows in the kitchen, but the atmosphere was shrouded in an uneasy silence. Kayla and I sat at the table, the clinking of our utensils against the plates the only sound in the room. Sophia's absence hung over us like a heavy cloud. "Why isn't Sophia joining us?" I finally asked, my concern creeping into my voice. Kayla looked up, her eyes reflecting the same worry I felt. "I tried waking her up, but her door's locked, and she won't respond." My heart quickened as a sense of foreboding settled over me. I rushed upstairs, calling Sophia's name with increasing urgency. The air felt thick with tension as my knocks turned to desperate pounding. The door finally gave way, swinging open to a scene that froze the blood in my veins. I rushed upstairs, the fear gripping my chest like a vice. The silence that met my calls sent shivers down my spine. "Sophia! Sophia, open the door!" I pounded on the wooden barrier, my heart racing in tandem
Chapter 69 Collin’S POV The room felt suffocating, the weight of the truth bearing down on me. My daughter, Sophia, entangled with Henry, my so-called best friend. How could they keep this from me? Betrayal was a bitter pill to swallow, and the echoes of their secret liaison reverberated in my mind. Just as I was wrestling with these thoughts, Kayla, my girlfriend, entered the room. She approached me cautiously, sensing the storm brewing within. "Collins, we need to talk about this. Sophia and Henry might deserve a chance." I shot her a look that could melt steel. "Kayla, this is my family we're talking about. I don't need your input on how to handle it." She crossed her arms, her eyes reflecting defiance. "Collins, I'm your girlfriend. I care about you, and I care about Sophia. Maybe you should consider giving them a chance to explain." I scoffed, bitterness seeping into my words. "Explain what, Kayla? That they've been lying to me? That they've been sneaking around behind my ba
CHAPTER 68 SOPHIA’S POV The morning sunlight streamed through the window as we sat at the breakfast table—my father, Kayla, and me. The atmosphere, however, was far from sunny. I pushed the scrambled eggs around my plate, appetite absent, my mind occupied with thoughts of Henry. "Dad," I finally mustered the courage to speak, "when can I go back to school?" He looked up from his newspaper, his brows furrowing. "What's the rush, Sophia? You just got back." I sighed, a heavy burden on my chest. "I need to get back to my life, Dad. I can't stay cooped up here forever." He exchanged a glance with Kayla before addressing me. "Sophia, I'm making some calls to have you transferred back here permanently. It's for the best." My fork clattered against the plate as I shot up from my chair, frustration bubbling within me. "Transfer me back? Dad, you can't do that!" "Why not?" he replied, his tone stern. "Because it's my life, Dad! I'm an adult. You can't control every aspect of it," I ret
CHAPTER 67 HENRY’S POV The apartment felt emptier than usual, shadows of loneliness dancing across the walls. I hadn't been to work for days, the daily grind suddenly feeling meaningless without her infectious laughter echoing through the halls. Sophia had left, and the silence left in her wake was deafening. The incessant buzzing of my phone had become a painful reminder of her absence. I'd avoided answering, unable to face the reality of her not being there. It took Lynda, my ever-persistent secretary and friend, to knock some sense into me. She appeared at my doorstep, determination in her eyes. I opened the door to find Lynda with a look that was a mix of concern and frustration. "Henry, you've been MIA for days. Ignoring calls, neglecting work. What's going on?" she demanded, pushing past me into the apartment. I sighed, a heavy weight settling on my chest. "It's Sophia, Lynda. She's gone." Her eyes softened with understanding, and she gestured for us to sit. "Tell me everyt
CHAPTER 66 SOPHIA’S POV The wheels screeched against the runway as the plane landed, bringing us back to a reality I wished was just a bad dream. The car ride home was a silent ordeal, each passing mile carrying with it the weight of unspoken words and shattered dreams. As we entered the house, the imposing silence felt like a dark cloud hanging over us. My father's disappointment was palpable, and I couldn't escape the harsh reality of his gaze. Kayla, awkwardly caught in the crossfire, tried to diffuse the tension. "Sophia, sweetheart, let's sit down and talk about this," my father suggested, a futile attempt to bring order to the chaos that had become our lives. I couldn't look at him; the disappointment in his eyes was a mirror reflecting my own shattered expectations. "Talk? What is there left to talk about, Dad? You've made it clear how you feel." Collins sighed, his patience wearing thin. "Sophia, I thought what you had for Henry was just a phase, a childish infatuation. B