Chapter 60 Dismissal, Fired!REMINGTON HOSPITAL, NEW YORK.“Is there anyone here for the pregnant lady?” A nurse walked towards the reception to ask.Xander hurried forward to respond. “Yes, please. I am her friend. How is she doing?.”“I can’t tell you it would be best if her husband, boyfriend, or mother is here.” The nurse said.“She is an orphan and a divorcee. Where do you expect her to get all of those listed attributes?” He raised his voice at her.Carla rubbed at his back. “Calm down, Xander. The young lady is only doing her job.”“Then she should do it bloody right.” He growled.The older woman turned to the nurse, who looked pale. “I am sorry, my dear. Just as he said, she does not have a direct family. Xander here is the closest family she has. Let him see the doctor.”“Yes, ma’am.” The nurse replied meekly and urged Xander to come with her.“Hello, doctor,” Xander said in a calmer voice when he entered the office. “I am Xander Jackson, Nina Ruiz’s guardian.” He said.“Welc
Chapter 61 Out she goesREMINGTON HOSPITAL, NEW YORK.Carla furrowed her brows a bit after getting off the phone call she was on. Her eyes lingered on Nina, who seemed engrossed by her phone. Without warning, she snatched it off her hand.“My phone!” Nina protested.“No, young lady. What did the doctor tell you? You must rest. Why are you so adamant? Work can wait.”“It can’t. There is a lot I should be doing.” She groaned inwardly at a slight discomfort in her back.“Do you think the work wouldn’t remain if your condition becomes critical? At least for the sake of your child. Don’t you want them alive?”Nina bowed her head slightly, feeling embarrassed. “As much as I need my child to stay alive. I need this job for our future. It is the only thing we have to help us through this world of chaos.”“Well, you are in luck. Your boss is someone who would find every means to protect you, and from what I know, you work very hard.”She sneered at the mention of Xander. The sight of him yeste
Chapter 62 Who did itXANDER’S HOME, NEW YORK“Will you stop tormenting that phone already,” Jace said with a groan. “You were the same person who gave her a break. Yet you keep calling like she is in some trouble.”Xander rolled his eyes and dropped the phone. “She just got discharged. I am just trying to know how she is doing.”“Let her be for just a day, bro. I promise it won’t kill you. Stop making yourself appear so desperate.”“Why don’t you just say to my face that I am desperate.”“Well, you said it yourself.”Xander picked up the throw pillow next to him and tossed it at him. Jace dodged it, smirking. “Best bet I will have your neck broken.”Jace cackled, rubbing at his nose. “I must say, how you acted recently had me wondering where my actual brother is. I have never seen you so livid.”Xander shook his head. “I was expecting you to be like that. How can you be comfortable with the company going into flames like that? Do you know letting it hold on for too long could have pu
Chapter 63 Reflex or Real?NINA’S HOME, NEW YORK.“So, he didn’t send it?” Tania asked on the other end of the phone.Nina shifted in her seat. “I am just as surprised as you are. He promised to find the culprit. But I told him there would be no need to. I have had enough of having my name on everyone’s lips.”“You didn’t deserve to be treated like that.”“No one deserves to be bullied and maltreated. Love should be universal. But I get it. Not everyone has much love to give, making them very spiteful.”“I wish I could be there with you, Nina. It is the time you need me the most. I am so sorry.” Tania lamented bitterly.Nina managed to hold up a smile. “I know how hard it is navigating through school, Tania. It would help if you didn’t try to carry my burden when you have much to deal with. I am rooting for you, and I will, for your sake, take excellent care of myself so you won’t have to worry.”“Please take care of yourself. I almost had a heart attack when I heard of your admission
Chapter 64 The Bitter TruthDAWN’S HOME, NEW YORK. Dawn chewed helplessly on her nails as she kept calling Xander’s contact. He seemed to have put his phone on Do Not Disturb. The line kept saying the user was busy. She gripped the phone hard and screamed at the top of her voice. She can’t seem to get over the embarrassment he had put her through sending her out of his house in front of his brother. She feels bothered about his sudden change of behavior. The Xander she knows would never ask her to leave his house unless they were to do so together. Dawn couldn’t help but think that Nina had snitched on her and made him turn his back on her. At the same time, Xander isn’t the type to hide away when he finds something displeasing. Standing up, she let out a shaky breath, pacing the room back and forth. Dawn tapped on her phone and redialed his contact; he eventually answered, causing her to let out a long breath of relief. “Xander! What happened to your phone? Why haven’t you been r
Chapter 65 Not who she is! X&J EMPIRE, NEW YORK.Xander exhaled when he tried Nina’s line again, but she didn’t call back. He didn’t need anyone to tell him she was trying to avoid him because of the kiss. A smile settled on his face at the reminder. It kept his heart jumping every time. It felt like he could die and be peaceful knowing he got a chance after such a long time to kiss Nina again. His entire body was practically floating when their lips met. He wasn’t surprised that Nina called the kiss a mistake. Her denial hurts him, but he doesn’t care much. Mistake or not, Xander intends to make it happen again. A message notification popped up on his phone; he checked it and shook his head, grinning. Nina had sent a text saying she was busy and couldn’t speak to or see him as he requested. The hiding game was too familiar to him. He would only give Nina until the end of the day before showing himself again. Feeling satisfied with his decision, he returned his attention to work. B
Chapter 66 Suicidal ThoughtsNINA’S HOME, NEW YORK.Nina’s nose was basking in the perfume Xander had on before she snapped back to reality and pushed him away from her gently. She was still wearing her clothes and had just returned from work. Nina thought she was dreaming when she felt his comforting arms wrap around her. The same feeling she got when they dated in college still enveloped her. “What is going on?” She asked while looking back and forth between him and the bag in his hand. Xander pushed past her gently and shut the door before ushering himself into the couch. “Well, first things first. It would help if you welcomed me. I will be your new roommate starting from now.” Nina frowned at him. “What do you mean by that?” “It's the same thing it means in general, Nina. Now sit; we need to talk.” But she remained standing. “Nina, please.” He urged. She finally settled stiffly on the couch. “Why are you here?” Nina asked, avoiding his eyes. Xander inhaled deeply. “So, abou
Chapter 67 Suicide Mission Accomplished? NINA’S HOME, NEW YORK.Nina dragged her feet on the floor while rubbing at her sleepy eyes. She yawned loudly at the sight of Xander whistling a tune while flipping pancakes. “Wow, I didn’t realize you could cook. Good morning.” She mused, settling into a stool cautiously. Xander grinned, serving her a plate. “Majorly breakfast. As for the rest, I can only do the basics. Thankfully, I have enough money to order meals.”He said with a wink. She chuckled. “Thank you.”“You are welcome. And if you are craving for anything. Do not hesitate to let me know.” Nina smiled to herself, staring down at the whole plate. “I don’t know why you do all this for me, Xander. But thank you.” “How many times do you intend to keep thanking me? I am doing this because I want to. So let me stop thinking you owe me. I will get ready for work now. You can take your time.” He said while hanging the apron. “Why? You haven’t eaten anything.” “I am not much of a br
BONUS CHAPTER“Are you ready for tonight, Mia?!” Xander smirked as he sat beside Nina, watching a movie on Netflix and chewing on popcorn. “What’s happening tonight?” She asked, looking at him and pretending not to understand.“Well, why did we ask my mom to care for our baby?” He grinned sheepishly.“Did we plan to do that?” Nina grinned, too.“Well, put this aside.” He took the popcorn from her thighs and placed it on the table. Nina rolled my eyes, hiding her smile. “Oh, not today,” she tried to escape, but Xander quickly grabbed her. “Don’t you dare!” He laughed, tickling her that she laughed so hard. His hand reached for her bare thighs. And before she knew it, Xander grabbed her and pushed her down on the couch. It was fast! He pulled her legs apart and gave her breasts a rough squeeze. He positioned Nina just like he wanted. He yanked off his belt and tied her hand above her head. “Nasty, isn’t it?” Nina giggled.“Wait till I’m in full mood!” Xander removed her pants and sh
Chapter 95 Sex With XanderEPILOGUE: ONE YEAR LATERXANDER’S HOME“Are you sure I look okay?” Nina asked Tania again while analyzing the dress she had on. She had come in to change after Winter doused the other dress with candy juice as they were due to take pictures. Tania huffed tiredly. “How else do you want the dress to look on you, Nina? You look beautiful enough. Come on now, Winter would be waiting, wondering what her dearest mama is still doing hidden away.” Venus peeked into the room. “We are waiting for you. Nina, Winter is eager to cut her cake.” She called out. “Yes, Mum, I am coming.” She replied. Nina’s face fell as she stared at herself intensely. Tania walked up to her and rubbed her back slowly. “I wish he was here.” “You know he would have loved to be here. It would help if you stayed strong for you two. I believe better days are closer than expected.” Tania comforted. Nina smiled, glancing at Tania’s bulging belly. “Jace looks elated these days.” She laughed l
Chapter 94 The MotorcycleREMINGTON HOSPITAL, NEW YORK.The hospital building almost felt strange to Nina, even though she had been by the place a few months back. The section she is heading to must be the reason why. However, Nina has decided, knowing she is doing what suits a great cause, that she doesn’t mind whatever she has to do. “Hello.” She greeted the receptionist. “Hi, ma’am. Welcome. Who would you like to see?” “Uncle J.R. Oh, pardon me, I mean Dr Jason. Is he in? He is expecting me.” “You must be Miss Nina Ruiz?” “Yes, please.” “Alright, please come with me.” Jason was on a call when they walked into the office. At the sight of Nina, he smiled heartily. “Let me call you back, Dr Smith. My daughter just walked in.” He mumbled and hung up. Nina blushed at his referral. “Hello, Uncle J.R.” “How are you, my darling? Feels like ages.” He laughed, embracing her. “I am good. How are you, too?” “Great. Please sit.” He motioned towards the couch. “Thank you. So, I am yo
Chapter 93 Two peas in a pudXANDER’S HOME, NEW YORK.Nina saw how nervous he was and felt bothered that she might have said something she shouldn’t. Relaxing her shoulder, she sat on the couch and faced him. Xander held up a weak smile. “Why don’t you tell me what you must say first?” He urged. She exhaled slowly and took his hand in hers. “We are not kids, Xander. Neither are we immature. Even though my first marriage was a wreck, I believe life continues. Being heartbroken does not mean one's life has to come to an end. Ever since you came into my life, I have been able to see things differently. I am learning to love and embrace life as it should. One thing I promised myself after being betrayed by Asher and Andrea was never to trust anyone. Also, I vowed off men, telling myself all I needed to do was work hard and get back on top. What mattered was getting back at the people who made my life a living hell.” Nina chuckled, still caressing his hand, “But I was wrong. I couldn’t
Chapter 92 Court OrderXANDER’S HOME, NEW YORK.“It doesn’t feel right for me to stay home,” Nina whined behind Xander as he dressed. He turned to her, stopping halfway with his shirt button. “Why not?” “Because it's been two days. I need to get to work.” “Do it from home. Also, Tania would be coming today. Aren’t you excited to see her?” “I am, but…” She pouted, exiting the bed and wrapping her arm around him seductively. “Come on now, what happened last time will never happen again. I will defend myself no matter what.” “That right there is the problem. I don’t want you defending yourself no matter what. I have it covered. Please stay put here until Asher signs the court order, Nina.” Nina huffed in resolve, knowing there was no way out anymore. “Fine, I will just stay back.” She yawned loudly and sat at the edge of the bed, staring at his broad back. For the past few days, she has laid in Xander’s bed. He works until late at night, and she finds his arm wrapped around her wh
Chapter 91 Terrible FatherNINA’S HOME, NEW YORK. Gripping the phone tightly, Nina let out a long hiss. Xander does have a wrong side to him. Despite his promise to meet with her two days back to celebrate her unexpected promotion, he didn’t show up and gave an excuse for being busy. She thought he would reach out afterward, but he still hasn’t called. Her hand trailed Winter’s sleepy face absentmindedly. She brought her to the office to take her around the place like the little one would understand what was happening. Regarding Xander, her inability to get angry at him is the most annoying thing for her. Instead, she is worried that something might be wrong; at the same time, her ego prevents her from calling him. Her eyes roamed her new office space, and it felt surreal. They made the immediate move of X&J Foods into the M&M building. Nina occupied the same office Asher had sat in as the CEO but with a significant redesign. She was more than happy to see Asher and Andrea beneath
Chapter 90 The SwindlerTAYLOR’S HOME, NEW YORK.Asher struggled to sit up from the couch drowsily. He had gotten drunk and slept lazily without a bother in the world. In his distorted state, Asher noticed Andrea rushing out to her car. He let out a hiss, wondering what spa she had an appointment with again. He still can’t get over the fact that Nina holds the rein of a company he had dreamt of for years. She walked in without doing anything to reap where she didn’t sow. He let out a wince at the ache that struck his head. Suddenly, the door opened, letting in an angry-looking Leila. “Have you seen what your stupidness has caused?” She hollered. He held his aching head down. “What is it this time?” Leila screamed into her palm. “I told you to control yourself and not do anything stupid. But I don't remember you listening. Now everyone knows we have been humiliated by Nina. Everything that happened was written in the tabloids, every bloody thing.” Asher let out a slight cough. “Ca
Chapter 89 Why won’t you make love to meX&J EMPIRE, NEW YORK.“I can’t believe this. So, M&M Foods is all yours now?” Jace asked for the umpteenth time.Xander laughed amidst the celebration going on in the lobby. “Yes, Jace. X&J foods will only get bigger and better from here on.”“Nina must be so happy.”“I am sure she is.” He mused while staring at her sweetly among the crowd. “That reminds me, Dawn should be here to celebrate with us. Where is she?”Jace shifted on his legs; Xander hadn’t checked his mail. “She must have informed someone of her absence.”“That is strange,” Xander said, checking his phone for any message she must have dropped.“Why not check your mail?”“Mail? Dawn hardly uses her mail unless it is for work. But then, let me check.” His brows furrowed when he indeed found a message from Dawn. It happened to be a resignation letter. “Take a look, Jace. She resigned. How am I just getting to know about this now? We still spoke a while back, and she didn’t mention an
Chapter 88 The Naive OneM&M FOODS, NEW YORK.Nina stared anxiously at the building and suddenly felt an intense pressure in her bowel. She thought about what might be going through Xander’s head for the rest of the weekend. He had constantly evaded any means of them getting intimate beyond foreplay, and Nina was beginning to think he might not have as much interest in her as she did. Either that, or she is pushing too fast.Thinking about that alone had her on the edge, now returning to the same place where she had experienced so much humiliation it made her feel suffocated.Inhaling sharply, she gripped Xander by the arm. He turned to see her pale face.“Hey baby, are you okay?” He asked in a worried tone.Nina managed to put up a smile. “Yes, I am. I need to get to the restroom. I will join you soon.”“I will wait for you then.”“No, don’t do that. I know my way around here, remember?”Xander looked skeptical, but he chose to respect her privacy. “Alright, just call me if you need