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 33I glanced around the room that we had ended up in, and for a minute I wondered why the place even had a room, but before I could think too deeply about that completely irrelevant fact, Henrys hands were back on me, long slender fingers running through my skin leaving a wake of fire burning through my body. "Which room is this Henry?" I asked and he smiled at me. "Let's just call it my secret room,"This was the second day in a roll we would be fucking and I was excited that he didn't have much of a regret after the first day. He pulled me to him his mouth was covering mine again, kissing me hungrily and I could feel all other thoughts being pushed to the side, my entire focus centered on the feeling of his lips against mine, his tongue sweeping over them making a heat pool at her entrance. I felt myself being lifted off my feet and I wrapped my legs around him, pulling him closer into the kiss. Our masks remained on our faces and the mysterious air that it gave made me
CHAPTER 34HENRY’S POVWhat the hell have I done? I can't believe I let myself give in to this... this temptation. She's my best friend's daughter, for God's sake. I promised myself I'd be a guardian, a mentor, not a damn fool. I pound the pavement beneath my running shoes, each step feels like a punishment for my own weakness. I should have known better, resisted those tempting lips, those eyes that seem to see right through me. Sophia deserves better than this.And what about Collins? My oldest friend, a brother almost, entrusting me with his daughter's well-being, and I go and betray that trust. How can I even look him in the eye again?I never wanted to be that guy, the one who messes everything up. I've always prided myself on being responsible, dependable, and now... I've turned into a cliché. The older man succumbing to the charms of a younger woman, crossing lines that should never be crossed.But she's not just any woman, is she? She's Sophia, with her quick wit, her intelli
CHAPTER 35SOPHIA’s POVFlashback lastnightI stormed into the house, my frustration at yet another argument with Henry still simmering beneath the surface. My heart raced as I tried to put some distance between us, heading for the stairs and my room, desperate for some alone time. But, as usual, he wasn't about to let things slide."Wait, Sophia," he called after me, his voice tinged with irritation.I paused, my hand on the banister, and turned to face him. "What is it now, Henry?"He took a deep breath, his jaw clenched as he chose his words carefully. "Look, I know things have been... tense lately, but I just need to say this."I crossed my arms, steeling myself for whatever he was about to throw at me. "Fine, go ahead."He took a step closer, his eyes locking onto mine with an intensity that sent a shiver down my spine. "Now that your dad's gone, I don't want to see Jason in this house anymore."My anger flared up, and I couldn't help but lash out. "Oh, and who appointed you as t
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