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An Uneven Trade
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2024-10-29 19:42:56Related chapters
Dared to love Airplane Mode
Clay got out of the vehicle and checked his watch. Then, Mark gave him the note from Maia. Clay looked at the note intensely, he could shatter a monk's concentration, trying hard to decipher the flight departure time and number Maia had written. After a while, he could faintly make out her cursive writing. He hurried towards the boarding pass, and the airport attendant was astonished when she saw him. She was used to seeing important people like top executives, artists, and models, but seeing a billionaire as handsome as Clay Winston was not an everyday occurrence."Mr. Winston," the young airport attendant said, star-struck, recognizing him, her eyes lit up and a widened smile instantly appeared. She paused awkwardly for a moment, then returned from her trance and asked, "How can I assist you, sir?" She was quite beautiful, with tousled auburn hair, light makeup, and wearing a white and blue airport uniform with a hat. She seemed to fit Clay's target demographic from his younger day
Dared to love Hold on, I'm Home
Lorraine sat in the backseat of an airport taxi, gazing at the roads of Florida as they unfolded before her. She had arrived in Florida at 1 p.m., and the intense heat made her think Manhattan was cool in comparison. If she thought the heat in Manhattan was hot, Florida was literally a suana. The roads were bustling with pedestrians, angry drivers, and motorcyclists, all trying to maneuver through the traffic and honking at each other in the heart of the city, Amidst the chaos, Lorraine opened the windows, taking in the sight of tall palm trees and renovated coffee shops. A deep breath filled her lungs, and she felt a warm welcome back home. It had been two years since she left Florida, and the realization that she had been away for so long brought a sudden sadness.Yet, witnessing the enchanting spirit and energy of her city, she felt a sense of renewal. Living in the busy metropolis had made her forget the beauty and simplicity of how a small town could be. Now, back in Florida, sh
Dared to love Surprise Visit
As the plane landed in Florida. Clay quickly hot off the plane and walked into an SUV truck waiting for him at the airport. Eager to keep his abrupt visit and its purpose to Florida a secret, he dismissed the driver and grabbed the keys himself. He cranked the engine and adjusted the driver's seat, which had been moved back and raised to accommodate the relatively short driver. Standing at six foot four inches tall, this was not a comfortable car seat height for Clay. He pushed the button and adjusted the seat to fit him better, before heading for the road.The condition of the road was not great, making Clay's mood even worse. He was still actively worried about his wife's family's approval and how Lorraine was fairing. With vehicles congested on one lane, the road only allowed for slow speed. This only frustrated him more, but at least gave him some considerable time to consult the directions to the hospital Maia had written for him and entered it into the car's GPS system.Clay kep
Dared to love Miracle in Room Number 7
The night at the hospital suddenly turned cold. Lorraine's father introduced his son-in-law, Clay, to his wife, Elaine. To everyone's surprise, Elaine warmly welcomed Clay with open arms, which astonished Lorraine. Her father, Ben, was always affectionate, but her mother, Elaine Davis, rarely warmed up to anyone. During the evening, they shared memories of Lorraine's childhood, ordered fast food, and played board games suggested by Clay to lighten the mood of the room.However, Lorraine didn't enjoy the board games much. She might have been upset about losing or still unsettled by Clay's unexpected visit. He had managed to bring some relief to the family during this difficult time, which wasn't a bad thing, but it made her feel like they didn't fully share in her pain. In contrast, her father was a fierce competitor, and after a while, Clay asked for a private moment with his wife. Somehow being called Clay's wife gave Lorraine chills; though, it could've just been the air conditionin
Dared to love Don't Go
"So...Jordan's out of the coma," Clay said awkwardly, trying to make small talk.He walked away to find some privacy and said reassuringly, "I told you everything was going to be alright." As they walked, Lorraine reached her hand nervously for Clay's and held it, they looked like a real couple for the first time.Noticing Lorraine's unusual quietness, Clay asked, "What now?" When they reached the edge of the lobby, Lorraine stopped, and it seemed like she couldn't keep her thoughts to herself any longer. Clay pulled her into an embrace. She hesitated as though she had had enough hugs for the day, and Clay sensed that something was wrong"I'm right, aren't I?" Clay stated, and Lorraine seemed confused. "Right about what?" she finally asked."Something's wrong, right?" Clay replied, noticing her reserved attitude. He felt thirsty and hungry, having relied only on snack bars and energy drinks since arriving in Florida. He thought about asking her to have lunch together but decided she w
Dared to love I Don't Miss You
A week had gone by since Clay returned to Manhattan, and Lorraine went back to her old life. On a drizzly Tuesday morning, she allowed herself to sleep in. She thought she deserved it after a tiring day at work. You see, since she made the rash decision to settle at home, she took up her dad's offer to work from home.Taking up this role made her realize how demanding the life of a corporate CEO could be. Dealing with heaps of paperwork every day was overwhelming, but she accepted it as her life now. She chose to stay in Florida to support her family and make up for lost time. Besides, she convinced herself that there was nothing left for her in Manhattan.This morning, Lorraine was fast asleep when her alarm went off again. Annoyed, her brother Jordan entered the room, looking at her sprawled on the bed."You always miss your alarm, it's unbelievable. You're making clock manufacturers look bad," Jordan said shaking his head. Lorraine mumbled in her sleep."Hey, it's morning, Lorraine
Dared to love New Flame
"Hi Lorraine, it's Grandma Edith speaking," said the frail voice on the phone."How have you been?" Lorraine was surprised but managed to reply, "I'm fine, Grandma," though she felt a bit uncomfortable. Grandma Edith sensed her hesitation."Listen, just because things are awkward between you and my grandson doesn't mean they have to be that way between us. You're still my favorite granddaughter-in-law, and you always will be," Grandma Edith reassured her. Lorraine smiled sheepishly, relieved that the old woman harbored no ill feelings towards her. This also answered her big question - Clay had shared their separation with his grandmother. So, she didn't need to be evasive in their conversation and could speak openly to Edith.There was a significant pause, and Lorraine wanted to ask how Clay was doing but held back. Sensing her apprehension, Grandma Edith decided to share some information, "You know, I was a little surprised when Clay returned without you."Oh yes, Grandma. I had to g
Dared to love Old Romance
Lorraine and Joey drove to the warehouse with an awkward silence between them. Neither of them had what to say after Joey hinted at his possible interest in Lorraine. She admired him as a colleague but never really paid attention to his features. Now with Joey's affectionate expressions, she saw him in a different light and found him attractive; with a strong jawline, dimpled cheeks, brown eyes, and dark curly hair, Joey had quite the looks, but she was tired of relationship problems. Frankly, she did not see herself getting into another one after her breakup with Clay, especially as she was still in love with him. As they reached the warehouse, and walked into the building, Lorraine saw a familiar profile, but couldn't believe it was him. Her eyes had to be deluding her, she thought; he had no reason to be here. But as he turned, she took several deep breaths and gulped, filled with distress. Standing in front of her in a navy blue suit and a firm smile was her ex-husband's assistan
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Dared to love The Memorabilia Gallery
It was a Saturday morning, exactly two weeks after the funeral, the morning air felt blissful as it sieved in through the open windows of their bedroom. Lorraine had moved back in with Clay and finally, they were living together as a couple. Earlier that week, Lorraine and Clay had renewed their vows and had a small ceremony, publicly announcing their marriage to the media. After everything that had happened, they figured that they wouldn't let anything else come in the way of them being together as a family. There was no reason to anymore.Clay had won over his family's affection, and Lorraine had reached the zenith of her career independently without Clay's help. She finally felt fulfilled and no longer felt belittled by being married to a man as famous, wealthy and influential as Clay Winston.Lorraine woke up that morning and found Clay still sleeping peacefully beside her lips parted in a smile.Slowly, she slid out under his arm, stood up and walked towards Edith's crib. Seein
Dared to love Her name will be...
Lorraine was appalled upon hearing her father tell her Jordan's funeral was the next day."Dad what do you mean his funeral is tomorrow?", she asked seeking confirmation "We don't think we should keep it for long, so we're going to do something small and intimate. Only a few friends and family" Elaine interjected sharplyLorraine was not satisfied with the arrangements, but this was her brother's funeral and she did not particularly want to argue. The faster Jordan was buried, the quicker she could mourn him and try to move on.Just then, Clay walked in and when he saw Lorraine, he hurriedly marched towards her and pulled her into a deep hug"How are you? How is she?" He asked with concern, and at this time her parents realized they had not asked about their grandchild"She's fine, she's healthy" Lorraine replied hastily and immediately her mother gasped in shock and covered her mouth, crying softly"Lorraine I'm so sorry I didn't ask. How is my grandchild?" She asked with curiosity.
Dared to love Home
Leaving a letter for Mrs Hughes was a lot easier to do, but here Lorraine was standing face to face with DeAngelo and couldn't find the words to say goodbyeDeAngelo sat on the stone bench outside, gazing at her quizzically, wondering why she had showed up unannounced after ignoring his calls and messages.After a few moments of uncomfortable silence, he asked with concern "Lorraine what's going on? Did you have a safe delivery?" "No, I mean yes, I did. The baby is fine, she's with the girls now" she replied sharply and then sucked in a quick breath and said"I came to say goodbye""Goodbye?" DeAngelo asked reflexively, stunned "You're leaving?" He added still in shockLorraine glanced at his face and said meekly "Yes. My family needs me" She said vaguely and paused. Shifting her gaze to DeAngelo's face, she saw that he still needed more context and hesitantly she said "My brother died yesterday. I'm going back home for the funeral and to be with my parents through it""I don't thin
Dared to love First Goodbye
The next day, Lorraine woke up to the sound of her beeping alarm. Opening her eyes, she groaned in exhaustion and the reality that her brother was now dead sank in again and the weight of it kept her under her sheets.Today was going to be her last day in Italy, and she never imagined this was the feeling she'd be leaving with.Having always known it would be tough to leave, she always believed it wouldn't feel that hard when she finally got back home to see the faces of everyone she loved. But now Grandma Edith was gone, and so was her brother.Lorraine tried so hard not to cry, but could no longer hold the tears that stifled in her eyes and at that time, she heard a faint knock on her door.Quickly, she got up, wiped the tears away and said "Come in" The doors swung open and revealed Caterina leaning pensively against the wall with a tired look on her face"Good morning" she uttered softly. The girls had spent all night taking turns to watch over the baby and as a result did not ge
Dared to love Grief
Lydia and the girls were outside the hospital when Dr Ivan approached them. Elena was the first to spot her and immediately hurried towards her "Is she alright doctor?" She asked frantically A small smile plastered on the doctor's face as she replied "Yes, she is. They both are""Why don't you go in? A nurse will come to take the baby away soon" She nudged and walked away. Instantly, the girls rushed inside the delivery room and saw Lorraine with a baby carefully wrapped in her palms. At first sight, they were all in awe by the view, but then when they moved closer, Caterina noticed that she was crying.At first, she assumed that Lorraine was just excited to have her baby. Slowly, with light footsteps, Caterina approached Lorraine and when she saw the baby, she gaped in awe."She's so beautiful," Caterina said softly. Lydia and Elena were on the opposite side of the bed staring at the baby, but suddenly they noticed Lorraine's sullen expression."Lorraine?" Caterina called on seein
Dared to love Giving Birth
"What?!" Caterina exclaimed I'm excitement. Immediately, she stood up and went over to Lorraine, helping her to her feet, and grabbed their papers "Ladies, what is going on here?" Mrs Hughes said authoritatively, seeing the girls disrupt her examination atmosphere."Ma'am Lorraine needs to go to the hospital, she's having a baby" Caterina replied helping Lorraine down the stairs. At that time, Lydia and Elena instantly got up and followed.When they reached the front of the hall, Mrs Hughes walked over to them and got the papers. She then leaned towards Lorraine and said with a gleeful smile "Congratulations. Do not worry about the examination, I'll take care of it" The girls rushed to the SUV and brought it around immediately. Caterina helped Lorraine into the backseat and in a few moments, they were off to the hospital.The engine roared through the highway. Luckily, Lorraine already had the number of the doctor who attended to her when she was pregnant, Lydia quickly retrieved he
Dared to love Final Papers
It was a week after the Art Convention ended. When Lorraine returned to the school, she was graced by a grand welcome, while some people were not happy that her honest speech could ruin the chances of their school winning, they ultimately admired her courage and what she did for them.That morning, Lorraine woke up and for the first time ever, she didn't feel the need to conceal her pregnancy. Pretty much, the entire school knew of it by now and it felt free.Spring was almost over, and it was hard for her to bid it farewell, much harder cause this was her last semester in the Art School before she'd have to return home.Lorraine had fallen in love with the city and its people, the different lovely personalities, their food, boat rides and most especially, the friends she had made.The thought of going back home was not quite as exciting as she thought it'd be. Over here, she felt like she was with people who spoke her language, people who understood the struggles of what it means to
Dared to love Lorraine, You're Art
The judges settled around 9:15 that morning, and shortly after the second round of the competition began. As usual, Davio Art School went first, their representative was a girl who was already shaking in her boots when she was called to the stage.Lorraine sat pensively, observing and studying the reactions, expressions and patterns which the judges used to examine artworks. In her head, she had cooked up a plan, but this would only work if she could find their emotional trigger and find a way to use it against their rules."Next up, Faun's Art School!" The announcer called. Grace was sitting beside Lorraine trying to trash talk and put her out of her game. She smirked as she stood up and walked to the stage. At that point, Lorraine's confidence was too high to be threatened. There was something more important at stake to be disturbed by what some posh art school girl thought of her.Grace took the stage and the timer began, thirty minutes! Thirty minutes to come up with something d
Dared to love A Way Out
The day was bright and sunny. However, Lorraine woke up feeling clouded in her head. She had made a bold decision yesterday night to forfeit the award and the certificates that came with it, but now she wasn't so sure anymore.Her career's future and everything she ever wanted and worked hard for hung on that decision. She sat up and shook her head, dismissing the thoughts then walked into her kitchen and made herself something to eat.She needed a clear headspace to think, but just then she was interrupted by a knock on her door. Groaning in frustration, she marched towards it and opened it aggressively "What?!" And immediately regretted gee outburst"Mrs Hughes..." she blurted in shock"Good morning Lorraine," the lady said and brushed past her, entering her room. Lorraine remained frozen at the door for a few moments, then closed it and turned to Mrs Hughes. "Sorry ma'am, but what are you doing here so early?" She asked Mrs Hughes turned to her with a proud smile and said, "I c
