Sophia was scrolling through her phone when it buzzed with an incoming call from her younger brother."Hello Ethan, is Mom okay?" She asked, worried."Hey, Soph, Mom is okay for now, but the doctor said the surgery can't be delayed any longer. What should we do?" Her brother's voice came, and she could tell how worried he was.Sophia panicked too, but still managed to compose herself. "How many days do we have to schedule for the surgery?" She asked."We have 3 days, or Mom can't make it past that. Soph is Marcus not going to help Mom?" he asked, his voice hopeful."I'll try to talk to him again. Don't worry Ethan, we will find a way." She comforted her brother even if she didn't know how they could raise the money. After ending the call, she stood at the massive window of Marcus’ villa, looking out over gardens so pristine and endless they looked surreal. The perfectly trimmed hedges and the sparkling marble walkway all screamed of wealth and power. But to her, it was all just a bea
As the sun cast its rays into the sterile hospital room that was filled with the smell of medicine, Sophia woke up by her mother's side. She came here last night with the excuse of taking care of her mother. She didn't want to be alone as her heart was shattering into pieces and only by being with people who mattered to her could make her feel better. She couldn't look back to that cold lifeless house She had been in for 3 years. Not after the decision she had made. Every corner of that house reminded her of the marriage that never existed and she couldn't go back there again. With this thought, she exhaled sadly, before looking at her mom, who was sleeping peacefully, her face pale and weak. She had been sick for a while now and her surgery was postponed since they didn't have enough money for it. Her mother opened her eyes slightly as if feeling her emotional turmoil. The surgery was very important yet the funds seemed impossible to gather. Her mom, Catherine, pinned her hope on M
“I have sent you some pictures, it's not much, but they clearly show them entering hotel rooms,” Maya replied calmly. Sophia checked her phone and saw the photos. She thought she would react to them, but her heart was calmer. Maybe the phone call from Lila gave her the last blow. She stuffed her phone back in her bag, stood up, and said, “Thank you for this information; I'll know what to do with it.” Maya nodded as Sophia turned around and left. Sophia checked the phone, it was almost the time they agreed to meet with Marcus. She headed towards the Cafe opposite the hospital, her decision now clear. It's time to end this once and for all. When she arrived at the cafe, she found Marcus sitting at the corner scrolling his phone and a cup of coffee on the table. It seems he had been waiting for a while. When he saw her, he stood up like a gentleman pulling a chair for her, “Sophia, here you are.” Sophia looked at him with doubt. This behavior of his was way back before they got m
The quiet man’s eyes burned with intensity, though his lips remained sealed. An underlying storm was brewing just below his carefully crafted facade, each unspoken word thickening the tension that hung heavily in the air.His assistant broke the silence again, visibly rattled. “Sir, what should we do? You know your grandfather’s will. The deadline for submitting the marriage certificate is today, or the company falls into someone else’s hands. Your uncle Gerald won’t waste a second exploiting this opportunity.”The mention of Gerald sparked something within him; a flash of barely contained anger hardened his face as his jaw tightened. But he said nothing, eyes distant as if weighing options that only he could see.Unbeknownst to them, Sophia was nearby and had caught every word. She hadn’t meant to eavesdrop, but the urgency in their voices drew her in. "Marriage certificate?" The phrase echoed in her mind, a strange spark of desperation flickering to life. What if…?An idea—reckless
Sophia stared at her phone, watching it buzz repeatedly on the table. A wave of exhaustion washed over her, the weight of everything pressing down hard on her shoulders. The last thing she wanted was to deal with the Hawthornes, but she couldn’t ignore the call. With a heavy sigh, she answered."Mrs. Hawthorne, this is the butler. Old Master Hawthorne requests your presence at the family house immediately," came the familiar voice, so stiff and formal.Sophia winced. I can't deal with them today. She rubbed her temples, trying to muster the energy for one more interaction. “Please tell Mr. Hawthorne I’m sorry, but I can’t make it today. I’m very tired.”There was a brief silence, then the butler’s voice returned, softer but insistent. "Mrs. Hawthorne... I must insist. Old Master... well, he won’t take it well."Sophia leaned back against the couch, closing her eyes, letting the quiet of the room settle around her. I don’t owe him anything. I don’t owe any of them anything anymore. She
Mark stepped out in a black suit and a professional expression addressing her politely.“Good morning, Miss Blackwell. Mr Evans sent me to pick you up. He wants you to go to his Villa where you will be staying.”Sophia nodded, turning back to her apartment to get her suitcase. She came back and Mark escorted her towards the waiting car. Before she got in, she turned back, glancing at her small apartment. She had no idea what kind of life awaited her on the other side. Taking a deep breath, she got into the car comforting herself. She made the deal herself and now it was her responsibility to honor it.The drive took longer than Sophia expected as she watched the city gradually fade into the distance. As the landscape continued to change, Sophia got more nervous and she could feel the tension in her body just by looking at her sweating hands.The car finally stopped in front of a grand estate. It hid in a quiet corner of the world, surrounded by a serene lake and thick woods. The Villa
Alexander raised his eyebrows slightly, putting his hands in his pants pocket as if waiting for her to continue.Sophia's heartbeat increased, knowing he would not take it well, and she was ready for him to react or even divorce her. Divorce? Her heart sank at the thought of another divorce.She bit her lower lip, avoiding his eyes, but she could feel his sharp eyes focused on her face. He didn't say anything, and his silence didn't make Sophia's heart calm, so she continued."I was together with Marcus Hawthorne for 3 years but we never did….I mean we were never close." She said with her face blushing. "It was just complicated."Alexander's lips curved slightly, "how efficient." "Huh?" Sophia was surprised. She expected him to be annoyed or maybe not show any interest. "You dropped a fish and hooked another on the same day?" his neutral voice came again but there was no humor in his eyes.Sophia's face flushed deeper. His words stung but it was the truth anyway. "I-I didn't plan it
Sophia stood at the door to her mother's hospital room, taking a last look at her resting figure. Ethan had left a few minutes ago, promising to check in later, but she lingered a moment longer, watching her mother's chest rise and fall with every breath. Relief washed over her, knowing the worst of the surgery was behind them."Goodbye, Mom," she whispered, as though the words could reach her. She glanced back one last time and then quietly stepped out, her heart still heavy from the news she hadn't yet shared. The divorce was a chapter she'd managed to keep quiet, not out of shame, but out of the desire to protect her mother from more worry than she could bear. Sophia had lost so much, but now, in her mother's recovery, she felt a small piece of herself begin to mend.Outside the hospital, the air was warm with a gentle breeze, and for the first time in a while, she felt like she could breathe. As she walked down the busy street, her mind wandered to Alexander. Their arrangement was
Sophia stood there for a moment, her mind filled with thoughts she couldn’t quite figure. Finally, she sighed and began wiping down the table, her heart feeling both heavy and strangely light at the same time.***The next morning, Sophia stirred awake as the first light crept into her room. She blinked, momentarily disoriented, until she remembered what day it was. Today was significant! Her mother was finally getting discharged from the hospital. Relief flooded through her as she stretched, savoring the fleeting tranquility of the early hour. But a glance at the clock reminded her she couldn’t afford to be late.She hurried through her morning routine, tugging on a comfortable blouse and jeans before heading downstairs. Passing the large bay window, she noticed Alexander’s car was gone. A frown tugged at her lips. When does he ever sleep? she wondered. Lately, he seemed to be everywhere and nowhere at once. Shaking the thought away, she entered the kitchen to whip up a quick breakfa
“Mrs. Evans did exceptionally well,” Mark said with a nod. “She impressed the panel...but...” He trailed off, looking unsure.Alexander’s sharp gaze fixed on him. “But what?”“There was one-panel member who seemed to be targeting her. I looked into it and found out something. It’s personal. She was Mrs. Evans’ senior in college and seems to have had an issue with her ever since. Most likely jealousy.”Alexander’s jaw tightened. “Make sure she doesn’t interfere with the hiring process,” he said coldly. “If she’s causing trouble, remove her. If necessary, fire her.”“Yes, boss,” Mark replied, though his eyes widened slightly at the directness of the order. “She was just standing in for her superior, so it won’t be a problem.”“That’s all for today,” Alexander said, rising from his chair and grabbing his suit jacket.Mark frowned. “Boss, what about these documents?” He gestured to the pile on the desk.Alexander threw his suit jacket over his shoulder without looking back. “Bring them wi
Sophia felt heat rush to her cheeks. She didn’t want to admit it, but the thought had crossed her mind. The price tags were enough to make her heart race.She quickly laughed it off. “Of course, I believe you! Why else would I follow you? I just think it’s better not to buy too many at once. Tomorrow, they might have even nicer dresses since fashion keeps changing.”Elena nodded thoughtfully. “You’re right, my dear. But this old woman rarely goes shopping. I spend most of my time at home.”Sophia smiled, appreciating Elena’s honesty. “Then let’s make sure today is worth it.”The young attendant chimed in. “You have such a good eye, madam. This one will look stunning on you,” she said, holding up a royal blue dress.Elena beamed. “Thank you, dear. You’re very kind.”As they moved from one section to another, their conversation flowed naturally.“So, Madam Elena,” Sophia said, holding up a soft pink dress, “do you have a favorite shopping buddy?”Elena laughed. “Oh, yes. My late husband
Sophia chose 5 nice dresses and 2 pairs of shoes for her Mom. She called a nearby attendant. “Excuse me.”The attendant approached with a forced politeness. “Yes?”“Please help me with these dresses and shoes, I'll get them.”The attendant was surprised and looked at Sophia for a while before saying, “Are you sure you want to buy all of them?”It was Sophia's turn to get surprised, “Didn't I make myself clear? Of course, I want to buy them.” She was getting irritated by the services of this store.The attendant, a short woman, sneered at her, looking at her outfits before saying, “It doesn't matter what you say, but can you afford them? You should know we're busy here, Miss, don't ask for things you can't afford.”Sophia gave the other woman a cold glare before asking, raising her voice, “Are you selling to me or not?”The attendant was intimidated by her cold eyes and immediately obliged. She took the items and walked towards the counter.As Sophia followed behind, she noticed an eld
“Mom, stop,” Ethan said. “It's not your fault. I’m happy to help.” Sophia chimed in, her tone softer. “Don't worry Mom, once I secure a job, Ethan won’t have to juggle work and school anymore. I promise things will get better.” Ethan gave her a grateful smile. “I appreciate that, but for now, I’ve got this. Besides, you’ve already done so much for us.” Catherine wiped away a tear. “I don’t deserve such wonderful children.” Sophia leaned over and kissed her mother’s forehead. “You deserve the world, Mom. Now let’s eat before the food gets cold.” As they shared their meal, the room was filled with warmth and laughter. For a brief moment, the weight of their struggles seemed to lift. *** In the evening, Sophia entered Valmere, her heels clicking against the polished floor. She glanced at her watch, knowing Alexander would arrive soon. She hurried to the kitchen, rolling up her sleeves to prepare dinner. The warmth of the home wrapped around her like a comforting blanket. Des
Sophia walked out of Allure Fashion clutching her file folder tightly. Her heels clicked against the pavement, echoing her hurried steps. The meeting with the panel had gone well, but her mind churned with nervous anticipation. She did her best and will leave the rest to God. She had to walk past a few blocks since she had her driver drop her far to avoid drawing much attention. “Well, well, well, Sophia,” Lila’s shrill voice echoed, causing Sophia to pause mid-step. She turned her head, and her heart sank when she saw Lila. She was standing a few feet away with Marcus, who looked equally surprised to seek off her. Her eyes immediately darkened with anger. Memories of that night when he drugged and tried to force himself on her came flooding back, making her clench her fists. This bastard... How could I have ever loved him? I must have been blind to trust him, let alone fall for him. She took a deep breath and turned away, intending to ignore them and move on. “What are yo
When the door closed behind him, the woman muttered under her breath, "What’s there to panic about? Unless you’re not qualified." After 20 minutes, the employee returned, calling out, "Samantha LeClerc?" Samantha stood up with a prideful smile, but there was something in her posture that suggested she already had the job. "Wish me luck," she said to no one in particular, then followed the employee into the interview room. Sophia was left alone for a few more minutes, her nerves returning in full force. She stood up and paced slightly, trying to calm herself. Finally, the door opened 20 minutes later, and the same employee called her name, "Sophia Blackwell?" Her heart jumped in her chest. "Here goes," she whispered under her breath. *** Meanwhile, somewhere in the city, Marcus lay on the bed, his arm loosely around Lila as she nestled against his chest. The weight of his family’s crisis should have sobered him, but old habits die hard. Lila traced circles on his shoulder,
After a while, she gathered her courage and broke the silence. “I’m… going for an interview tomorrow,” she said softly, glancing up. “At Allure Fashion.”Alexander looked up, his expression unreadable. “That’s good,” he said, his gaze steady. “Do you need my help?”Sophia’s heart skipped a beat. The thought of him, Alexander, using his influence to help her was… tempting. She remembered how he’d handled the Hawthornes. It had taken him mere hours to dismantle an entire corporation. She hesitated, torn between the easy road and her pride.“No,” she finally said, shaking her head. “I want to do it on my own. Only my efforts should help me.”Alexander studied her for a moment, a glimmer of admiration in his eyes. He didn’t press her, just nodded slightly, as though respecting her decision. But there was a hint of expectation in his gaze, as if waiting for her to ask him anyway.She faltered under his intense gaze, then added with a shy smile, “But… can you pray for me? Wish me luck? That
"Oh, please, since when is love boring?" Her mother gave her a knowing look, gently patting Sophia’s hand. "But fine, I won’t pry. Go on then, leave me here with nothing but doctors for company."Sophia laughed, giving her mother a playful hug. "Ethan should be here soon. He’ll keep you company. Just… be patient, okay?"With a playful wave and a final hug, she left the room, unaware of the crisis the Hawthornes were facing.As she left the hospital, a slight smile played on her lips. She was about to hail a cub when the driver from earlier hurriedly called her.“Mrs Evans.” He nodded at her and motioned for her to get into the waiting car. Sophia was surprised to see him.“Why are you here…? Wait, you didn't leave?” She asked, raising her eyebrows as she observed that the car was packed exactly where she had left it hours ago when he dropped her off.“I was waiting for you,” he responded professionally. “Mr. Evans assigned me as your driver from now on.”“What?” Sophia's mouth was aga