***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
***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.
***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
***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 blankly at the file in my hand, still trying to wrap my head around it. It’s a divorce document sent to me by my beloved husband. At first, I thought he was joking when he first mentioned it to me, but now that it is in my possession, it is crystal clear that my husband meant it. He had already signed his part before having the documents sent to me. How did we end this way? After three years of marriage and three years of my consistent effort to get him to love me back, my efforts remained null and void. Was it wrong for me to want to be with the man I love? I know I forced Easton into this marriage, knowing fully well that he was dating someone else at that moment, but I only did it because of the love I have for him. I’ve always been in love with Easton Grey, right from the day we first met. I was at a dinner party that my father had asked me to attend on his behalf, and just as I was about to take another glass of wine, my gaze locked wi
(SIX YEARS LATER) EASTON’S POV I checked my watch for the third time as I made my way to the airport’s entrance. I had cut my meeting short so I could get here in time to pick up Nicole, despite her suggesting she takes a cab. Thankfully, I made it just in time. As I awaited her, my eyes suddenly caught sight of a woman. She stood some distance away from me and had her gaze glued to her phone. Her long, silky, dark hair covered the side of her face, preventing me from seeing it fully. Something about her seemed familiar, but I couldn’t wrap my head around it since I was yet to see her face. I attempted to break my stare, but it seemed as though my eyes had developed a will of their own and were refusing to comply with my mental commands. The woman swiftly turned around and walked away, but in that swift movement, I was able to catch a glimpse of her face. I suddenly felt uneasy and curious about this woman, and my legs started moving on their own in an attempt to follow he
MIRABELLA’S POV I exhaled heavily, bracing myself for what’s to come. It’s been six years since I last saw my parents, and I’m certain they’ll be furious at me for ghosting them for so long. I didn’t even know how long I stood at the entrance until I felt two tiny arms wrapping around my legs. I lowered my gaze, and a bright smile crept up my face as I watched my five-year-old son embrace me in a comforting hug. He must have sensed my uneasiness and did that to reassure me that all was alright. Alfred may appear as a naïve five-year-old to others, but he’s way smarter than any five-year-old I’ve ever met. He’s not only independent, but he takes care of me more than I take care of myself. He was a gift from heaven sent to mend my broken heart after my divorce with Easton. I could never have asked for anything more. He’s my joy, my sole purpose in life, and my everything. “Are you scared granddad won’t be happy to see us, mommy?” Alfred asked, his hazel-green eyes glitte
EASTON’S POV “Who was she?” I asked Nicole, eagerly awaiting her response. We had arrived at her place and were heading towards the building. “Charlotte Benson! Can you believe it?!” Nicole exclaimed and I unknowingly put on a deadpan expression. Charlotte isn’t even someone I know personally; she’s an old acquaintance of Nicole from our college days. “It’s okay if you don’t remember her since it’s been years since we last saw her.” Nicole said, and I let out a sigh, disappointed that the woman didn’t turn out to be Mirabella. “Are you certain you wouldn’t like me to accompany you?” Nicole asked when I was about to head back to the car. “You should get some rest; I’ll see you tomorrow.” I replied but she held onto my arm. “How about staying over tonight? We haven’t seen each other in two weeks, and-” “I have work to take care of Nicole.” I diligently turned her down. I just wanted to take a long nap after the stress of the day and to stop thin
***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