MIRABELLA’S POV “Yes, I am.” I responded boldly, putting on a deadpan face. Nicole glared at me, but I wasn’t moved at all by her vicious gaze. “You really are something, Mirabella. After all these years, why did you suddenly come back? If you’re here for Easton, you should just go back and save yourself the embarrassment.” Nicole said, folding her arms across her chest. “Do you feel threatened by my presence, Nicole?” I asked with a knowing smirk. “The fact that I’ve been gone for six years and you still haven’t gotten the title of Mrs. Grey must be really frustrating for you, isn’t it?” I snickered. It felt good to see the defeated look on her face, even though it didn’t last. “You seem to forget your place, Mirabella.” Nicole started clicking her tongue. “You seem to forget the fact that Easton has always and will always be in love with me. You were married to him for three years, but during that period, I’ve always been the one in his heart.” She stated, letting out a scoff. “
NICOLE’S POV I stormed into Easton’s office after watching Mirabella leave majestically. I can’t believe he didn’t tell me about her return, and I had to find out through one of my spies. I came here to ask Easton about it, but I guess it’s already confirmed now that I’ve seen her for myself. Mirabella has always been a thorn in my flesh, and I was more than happy when she left. I don’t know why she’s back all of a sudden, but I’ll definitely find out and put an end to whatever treacherous plan she has. I pushed open the door and froze at the sight that welcomed me. Easton’s gaze was on his laptop, and his face was lit up in a bright smile! It was as though I could hear him humming to imaginary music while he worked on his computer. What the heck?! Easton has never been one to act merrily, at least not for the past six years. He always forced a smile on his lips, but this one right here was a genuine smile, and I could only guess the reason behind it: Mirabella! I stood at akimbo
MIRABELLA’S POV I paced back and forth in my room as thoughts of my discussion with Easton’s parents flooded my mind. It felt as though I was in a crossfire, and I couldn’t think straight. This was the first time they had made such a desperate request, and I could tell it really bothered them to the point of coming to ask me for help.“Mirabella, please help. We had an argument with Easton a few weeks ago, and he hasn’t visited us ever since. We were only trying to talk some sense into him, but he remains adamant on marrying that woman, Nicole. We had the strong feeling that the woman was just fooling him, but he wouldn’t listen to us. Please. Mirabella, could you talk to Easton about this?” Lucia’s eagerness kept resounding in my head.Easton may have been a jerk to me during our marriage, but his parents have always been good to me. They treated me like their very own daughter, and always made me feel loved when Easton failed to. I could never resent them; they’re like my second pa
EASTON'S POV I ransacked my wardrobe for the perfect suit to adorn. All my clothes were made by top-notch designers, and some were even the first of their kind, but today it seemed as though they weren’t good enough. I screamed at myself internally, reminding myself that this was just a simple dinner, and I was taking it too extreme by trying to look my best, but even with that said, I couldn’t help but try to look my best. I just felt I had to impress Mirabella.I admit that I felt a bit nervous to meet her in private. Although we’ve been working under the same roof for close to two weeks now, Mirabella only treated me like a co-worker. Rationally, I knew that it was the best state for us; it was better than her completely ignoring me, but on a personal level, a part of me wanted to be closer to Mirabella.When I had finally clad myself in my finest suit, I checked the mirror once more just to make sure everything was perfect. I brushed back a strand of hair that had left its posit
EASTON’S POVI tried so hard to focus on the steering on my way back, but thoughts of my discussion with Mirabella clouded my mind. I didn’t know how to feel about it all; if it wasn’t Mirabella, I would have concluded that this was all a vicious attempt to ruin my relationship with Nicole.My parents have always been against my relationship with Nicole, right from day one, but I never paid their words any attention, as I assumed their disapproval was due to Nicole’s poor background. I never cared about her background because, to me, she seemed diligent, well-mannered, and ambitious. She also showed kindness to everyone around her, and seeing how much effort she put into her studies contributed to my willingness to help her.I finally got back home, and Nicole was waiting for me as usual. She dashed towards the living room with a bright smile on her face and wrapped her arms tightly around me. “You’re back! I missed you.” She said enthusiastically with a cute pout, and I forced a smi
NICOLE’S POV I opened my eyes the moment I heard the closing sound of the door. A small frown settled on my face as Easton’s question resurfaced. “Would you still want to be with me if I gave up the company and married you instead?” Why would he ask me such a thing all of a sudden? Was he really planning on giving up the company? I can’t let him do that; all these will be for nothing if Easton gives up the company! My phone vibrated, and I picked it up reluctantly. It was a message from Broody. “Tick tock, dear daughter. I’m running out of patience.” I clenched my fist the moment I read the message. It all makes sense now! Easton was not planning on giving up the company; he must have asked me that because he was suspicious of me. It has to be Broody’s doing! My body tensed up immediately. What did Broody say to Easton this time? That old swindler has really become a thorn in my flesh! I stared at the message, thinking of possible ways to deal with this quickly. I need to get ri
MIRABELLA'S POV I watched in silence as the old man got rushed into the emergency unit. He had lost consciousness the moment we arrived at the hospital. The police arrived almost immediately, as I had called them prior to our arrival, and Roman had gone ahead to talk with them while I stayed with Alfred. “Who is that old man, mummy?” Alfred asked when we were seated in the waiting room. “I don’t know, sweetheart, but I hope he’s okay.” I responded. Roman joined us shortly. “Any news from the doctor?” He asked, and I shook my head in negativity. “He is still in the operating room. What did the police say?” I asked curiously. “They said they'd look into the case and try to find the man's family.” Roman responded, and I bobbed my head. The doctor finally came out of the operating room, and I stood up immediately, eager to know how the old man was doing. “How is he, doctor?” I asked with a worried expression. “He is one lucky man to have survived after losing so much blood. The
***EASTON'S POV***I felt a gentle tap on my shoulder and slowly raised my head up from the table. A small smile tugged at the corner of my lips when I saw Mirabella's face. She was dressed in just sweat pants and a hoodie and yet she still looked beautiful with her hair parked in a loose bun, allowing some strands to fall at the corner of her face.“Easton, are you alright?” Mirabella asked in a soft tone, laced with worry. I wasn't sure if it was the effect of the alcohol but at that moment, I felt like taking hold of her hand and never letting go. I guess deep down, I knew my greatest mistake was letting her go and now she was far beyond my reach.“Come on, let's get you home.” Mirabella said this and tried to help me up but I held her hand instead, and gave it a gentle caress. Her hand felt perfect in mine, and I realized that this was actually the first time I had held her so tenderly since our marriage. I had neglected her a lot during our marriage, I barely looked her way, and
***EASTON'S POV*** “Sir, are you listening?” Emma's voice snapped me out of my trance and I shifted my gaze to her. "Sorry what were you saying?" I asked with a perplexed expression. “I was just reminding you about your three O'clock meeting with Mr. Alex Chain from Hillgates Company.” Emma replied and I bobbed my head. “Let me know when it's three then.” I responded and she pressed her lips into a thin line. “What is it?” I asked when I noticed she wasn't moving. “It's already three, Sir. I came to remind you of the meeting.” She stated rather hesitantly and I gave her a faint smile. “Oh is that so? I'll be there shortly.” I said and she bobbed her head before leaving my office. I let out a frustrated sigh as I tugged at my hair roughly. I have been zoning out more often these days and I didn't want that to be too obvious. I just couldn't stop myself from thinking about Mirabella and how to make things right between us. I was also worried about her health so far. Was she alri
***NICOLE'S POV***The sound of shattering glass echoed in the room as I violently smashed the mirror on the wall. I couldn't stand seeing my reflection on it. It reminded me of the day I got kidnapped by Logan's men.I was tempted to call Easton and warn him against Logan but his threats stopped me every time. I never got to find out about his history with Easton and why he hated the Grey family so much but I knew that he was back for his revenge. He had been silent all these while, and I had almost forgotten about him.I can't just let him ruin my plans. If he hurts Easton before we're married, then it'll be over. My years of effort will be flushed down the drain just like that.No, I need to find a way to stop him, probably something to blackmail him with but I knew better than to do that. He can have me killed with a single snap of his fingers.“Damn it!” I tugged violently at my hair as I paced my room, ignoring the glass on the floor.What do I do? How can I persuade Easton to m
***ROMAN'S POV***I nervously rubbed my hands together as I awaited Mirabella in the living room. I couldn't understand why I was nervous, this is all I had ever wanted and though I knew it wasn't really a real date, just the thought of spending some alone time with her gave me hope.I heard footsteps approaching and slowly turned towards the stairs and there she was, descending the stairs ever so gracefully, her red heels clicking against the fine blocks.I couldn't take my eyes off her no matter how hard I tried, and it felt like the world had been placed on stand still, leaving only Mirabella and me. She wore a breathtaking, off-the-shoulder red gown made of high quality silk. The vibrant red color was deep and rich, exuding elegance and sophistication. Her neckline was adorned with an emerald red necklace, adding a touch contract. I smiled brightly as I stared at her gorgeous face which had light makeup on it. She was the most beautiful woman I had ever seen and the hard pounding
***EASTON'S POV***I picked up the bottle of tequila and filled up my glass while struggling to keep my eyes open. “Haven't you had enough already?” Kyle asked but he doesn't stop me from drinking it. We are seated at the balcony of my room, under the night sky. I had called him over as I needed someone to talk to, more like vent to cause I felt angry, frustrated and heartbroken at the same time.I heard about Mirabella's father's accident and went over to see him after work but they didn't let me in. I even got to learn from one of the maids that Mirabella had collapsed that same day.I was so worried that I had to see her but they said I was the cause of her stress. Mrs. Martha wouldn't even look me in the eyes anymore, it's like she hates me now for constantly hurting her daughter.Roman gave me a clear warning to stay away from her. I could vividly remember our encounter.***FLASHBACK***I rushed out of the car and walked over to the front porch, ringing the doorbell somewhat de
***NICOLE'S POV***I clicked my glass with Charlotte's before taking a sip. We were celebrating my successful mission in tying Easton down to me. “I knew you had it in you. Now all you have to do is make the public aware. The Grey family cares a lot about their reputation. Once you make it known that you're carrying his child, his parents would have no other choice but to let you two get married.” Charlotte said with a knowing grin and I smiled in satisfaction.“And then once we're married, I can fake having a miscarriage and win Easton's sympathy once more. We'll eventually have another baby along the way but even before then, I'll officially be Mrs. Nicole Grey.” I beamed and sipped my wine, letting out a soft giggle.The thought of finally being married to Easton, I just couldn't wait!But now here comes the hard part, getting the news online. “How do you suggest I go public with our relationship?” I turned to Charlotte with a curious gaze.“It's simple, have him invite you to a
***LOGAN'S POV***I stared at my phone for a while waiting for her response but then it became obvious she wasn't going to respond. I let out a soft chuckle as I placed the phone on the table and leaned back on my chair.“Mirabella Brookwood, you still remain a mystery to me.” I said while tapping my fingers on the table. I heard a slight knock on the door and then it got pulled open, revealing my right hand man, Eduardo.“Boss, I have the information you requested.” He said as he made his way to my table and placed an envelope on it.“Wonderful.” I said with a smile as I opened the envelope and brought out the documents and the attached photos.“Easton was able to secure a huge partnership with Hillgates Company and Delta G's chats have skyrocketed ever since then. Also, his ex-wife was present during the trip and it seems they've been spending a lot of time together too.” He explained as I glanced through the photos.“It does appear so. The kid seems really attached to Easton too.”
***MIRABELLA'S POV*** I slowly opened my eyes and was greeted by three familiar faces, Mom, Roman and Lola. “What happened?” I asked slowly as I tried to sit up. Roman helped me up immediately. “You almost gave me a heart attack, that's what happened.” Mom said, her tone was a bit harsh with a mix of sadness in them. “I told you to take it easy, ma'am. The test results are not out yet but I'm certain you collapsed from exhaustion.” Lola said with a sad expression. At that moment, the door came open and the doctor walked in. “How are you feeling, Ms. Brookwood?” He asked with a warm smile. “I feel fine doctor. Can I get discharged today?” “Of course but can you tell us what happened before you collapsed?” He asked while staring at me keenly. “I had a killer headache and the next thing I knew I was waking up here.” I replied and he hummed a response. “What's your sleeping routine? Do you work late hours?” He asked and I slowly bobbed my head. “And have you been under a lot o
***MIRABELLA'S POV***“He's injured pretty badly. He got into an accident on his way home.” Lola responded and my heart skipped a beat.“Send me the address of the hospital. I'll be there—”“He's actually home, ma'am.” Lola responded, cutting me off and I furrowed my brows.“What?! Didn't you just say he got into an accident?” I asked with a frown.“He is being treated by the family doctor.” She replied and I let out a sigh.“Take me home.” I instructed the driver and he maneuvered the vehicle, taking a U-turn.We got home minutes later and I dashed out of the car, instructing the driver to take Alfred to his room. I met Lola pacing in the living room and she let out a heavy sigh the moment she saw me.“How is he? Where is he?” I asked, my voice laced with panic.“He is in his study.” I bobbed at Lola before heading to the study and a frown settled on my face when I saw Dad sitting on his chair and going through some documents.He had a light bandage on his head and a few scratches
***MIRABELLA'S POV*** I quickly pulled away from his hold and created a distance between us. “Mr. Grey, what are you doing here?” I asked, staring at him intently. “You haven't been picking my calls, and you haven't been home for a while. I was worried —” “So you tracked me down to my court hearing?” I asked, cutting him off. “Mirabella, please can we talk?” Easton asked, his gaze pleading for me to hear him out. I was tempted to give in but quickly snapped out of it. I turned to Logan who was still standing behind me as he observed Easton keenly. “Where did you say we were having lunch?” I asked and he turned to me with a smile. “Anywhere you like. I know a fine restaurant downtown but if you have somewhere else you want to go—” “Let's go then.” I said with a smile and Logan bobbed his head while stretching out his hand to me. I was about to take his hand when I felt another hand pull me back slightly. “Mirabella, if you're doing this to make me jealous —” “Make you jealo