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ROMAN’S POV“I’m sorry about what happened, Roman. It felt like my best option at that moment.” I let out a soft chuckle, not because what Mirabella had said was funny, but because of her cute pout and the puppy eyes she made while saying it. Even if I were mad, which I am not, her expression would have melted my anger away in less than a second. At first, I was shocked by the abrupt revelation, but I immediately understood why she did that. I don’t mind keeping the lie and playing along as long as it makes her happy. I love Alfred, and would be more than happy to be his father if Mirabella would have me. “I understand, Mirabella. You don’t have to be sorry.” I replied, giving her a reassuring smile. “I’m happy to help; that’s what friends are for, right?” I added, and she smiled brightly, nodding her head immediately. “Yes, yes, that’s right.” She replied, still carrying that bright smile. Even though it hurt me a bit how she accepted without the slightest hesitation, it made me mo
MIRABELLA’S POV My pupils dilated as my eyes scanned through the document in my hand. It was a proposal from one of the companies Roman and I were to work with. My gaze went back and forth to the company’s name; Delta-Grey. I couldn’t believe my eyes! Just when I had resolved to keep a fair distance away from Easton, it turned out to be this way. “Is everything alright?” Roman’s voice snapped me out of my thoughts, and I raised my head up to meet his gaze. “This…” I said, showing him the document. “This is Easton’s company.” I added as he received the document from me, his eyes scanned it thoroughly. “I see.” He mumbled, lowering his hand. He smiled slightly, and took a seat next to me. “You don’t have to let this get to you. I’ll go to the meeting in your stead if you want.” Roman suggested, and I smiled brightly. He’s always so considerate, putting my needs and comfort before his. Indeed, I’m more than lucky to have him in my life. I stared at the document in his hand. Running
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
***NICOLE'S POV***“Argh!” I screamed as I smashed the phone on the wall, my anger rising by the minute.Eleven years! Eleven years of hard work flushed down the drain just like that! How could I have been so careless and not seen this coming?! “If you keep breaking my burner phones I might stop giving them to you.” I turned around to see Logan standing by the door.“You knew I was going to get caught that day, didn't you?” I asked through gritted teeth.“Nothing gets past me, Nicole. I already knew Easton was on your tail. I just wanted you to see for yourself that your beloved Easton doesn't give a shit about you.” He responded nonchalantly and I clenched my fist in anger.“Then why didn't you warn me?! It's all your fault that Easton is back with that woman!” I yelled and he let out a scoff.“It's also thanks to me that you're standing here right now and not behind bars.” Logan said and his gaze suddenly darkened. “Don't make me regret my little act of kindness.” He added, his pl
***MIRABELLA'S POV***I stared at Roman in shock, trying to find the right words to say as that was the last thing I had expected him to say. Was he doing this just to keep Easton away or did he really mean it?“Roman,”“You don't have to answer right away. Just think about, and whichever answer you give me, I'll accept it.” Roman said with a reassuring smile as he held my hands and gave them a gentle squeeze.“Roman if you're doing this because of Easton then you don't have to. I can take care of myself, and I'm not going to let Easton hurt me anymore. You don't have to tie yourself down to me simply because you want to protect me, you've already helped me a lot.” I responded and he seemed thoughtful for a while before responding.“Right, of course you can. I'm sorry if that was too forward.” He said before standing up from the bed.“Roman,”“You don't have to say anything or feel bad, Mirabella. This doesn't change anything between us. Should I pick you up tomorrow?” He asked and al
***MIRABELLA'S POV***"You know, when you told me you were moving, I actually didn't think you were serious." Roman joked as he walked into my apartment, followed by Lola who held two bottles of wine.“You should know that I always stay true to my words.” I responded while shutting the door.“Daddy!” Alfred beamed and ran into Roman's arms the moment Roman walked into the living room.“Wow, did I finally get a promotion?” Roman asked as he ruffled Alfred's hair and Alfred bobbed his head.“The place looks amazing, ma'am.” Lola beamed as she glanced around the living room.“All thanks to your help.” I responded with a smile.“Well then, shall we begin the housewarming party?” Lola beamed as she wiggled the wine bottle close to her face.“I'll go get the glass.” I said and went into the kitchen, taking out three wine glasses and a plastic cup for Alfred. I placed them on the table and brought out a bottle of banana milk from the fridge before going back to join them in the living room.
***EASTON'S POV***“Easton, it's not what it looks like.” I clenched my fists at Nicole's words. Did she take me for a fool? What possible excuse could she have that would make me think otherwise of the situation?“Then go ahead and tell me, Nicole. Tell me what it looks like other than you trying to murder your own flesh and blood!” I snapped, unable to keep my anger in check.“Sir, we will have the patient moved now.” One of the nurses said as they both helped Broody onto the wheelchair, then exited the room, leaving just Nicole and myself.“That man is not for father! He abandoned me for his own selfish desires!” Nicole responded as she pointed at the exit as though Broody was there. Her eyes were teary and her tone was filled with rage, all directed towards Broody.“Is that why you tried to kill him? Because he abandoned you? Is that also why you've been sending him money behind my back for years?” I asked coldly, ignoring her tears. I won't be fooled by her pity act anymore.“Th
DISCLAIMER: THIS CHAPTER CONTAINS GRAPHIC VIOLENCE. READER DISCRETION ADVISED. ***NICOLE'S POV*** “And you're certain this would work?” I asked with a frown as I stared at the outfit in the bag. I had asked Logan for help in taking care of Broody and he asked me to meet up with someone in this location. I came here as told and met with a masked man whom I assumed was one of Logan's men since they always made sure to hide their faces. “As long as you follow all procedures. We were able to get your father's check up routine. A nurse comes to his ward three times everyday, four times during the weekend to take him out for fresh air. They keep the wheelchair in the store at the end of the underground hallway.” The man explained and I nodded. “So how am I going to get into the hospital without being noticed? I'm certain those nurses would recognize me the moment I cross those doors.” I said with a frown. “There's a wig in that bag as well to hide your hair. Keep the mask on at all tim
***MIRABELLA'S POV*** “You wanted to talk with us, sweetheart?” Mom said as she settled on the couch next to my dad. He isn't fully recovered yet but he's a lot better than before. “Yes, I wanted both of you to be present.” I responded and they nodded. “So, what is it?” Dad asked. I let out a soft sigh before responding. “I was thinking of getting my own apartment and moving in with Alfred...” I paused to observe their reaction and noticed they both had small frowns on their faces. “But sweetheart, we don't mind having you here with us. You know that right?” Mom asked with a sad expression. “Of course I know that mom, and I don't mind staying with you guys either. I just need my own space for now. Alfred can come visit whenever he wants and you can also come see us whenever.” I responded with a reassuring smile and dad let out a sigh. “Why do I have the feeling that you've already decided this and we can't persuade you otherwise?” “That's because I have, dad. I will still ta
***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