Bill's POVThe shareholders are listening closely, nodding as I walk them through the progress we’ve made — new training programs, leadership initiatives, and the early signs of a stronger company culture.“We’ve seen a measurable improvement in employee engagement,” I say, clicking to the next slid
Bill's POV“Alright, Calvin,” I say, keeping my voice steady, but firm. “What's your deal?”I watch him closely, trying to read his expression, but it’s like a blank slate. No smirk, no raised eyebrow — just an unreadable mask.Calvin never does anything without a reason, and right now, I’m left gue
Serena's POVThe summer collection has been a huge success. I can hardly believe it, but we sold out everything in just three days. The shop has been packed since the launch, and our online orders have been through the roof. Every piece we worked so hard on is now in the hands of excited customers,
Serena's POVStevie and I walk into the meeting room, feeling excited and nervous. The anticipation has been building ever since Marjorie hinted at something big during our last conversation. Now, we’re about to find out what it is. Taylor and Marjorie are already seated at the table, both of them
Bill’s POVThe numbers on the screen blur as I stare at them, my mind racing with a dozen different scenarios. Calvin’s next move is coming, and I’m not about to be caught off guard. I’ve been reviewing every angle, tightening the company’s defenses, and making sure there are no weak spots he can e
Serena’s POVIn her usual high-energy mode, Stevie is pacing around the shop, hands waving as she describes her vision for the party. It’s impossible not to get caught up in her enthusiasm.“So, here’s the plan,” Stevie says, her eyes sparkling excitedly. “We’re not just throwing any party. We’re in
Serena’s POV"I'll cut straight to the point," Fabiana begins. "I'm really interested in working with you. Your summer collection has caught the eye of several of my celebrity clients — they're eager to wear your pieces."“Oh, wow,” I say, stunned. “That’s incredible! I never imagined when we starte
Bill’s POV"Who's in charge over there?" I ask, leaning back in my chair, phone pressed to my ear. It’s been a long day, but Serena asked for a recommendation, and I’m not about to let her down.There’s a pause on the other end of the line before a voice responds, “That would be Greg Larson, sir. He
Stevie’s POVThe ride to the clinic is quiet. Calvin’s hands are steady on the wheel, his focus fixed on the road. I know he’s trying to make this feel normal, like he’s not driving me to an appointment that confirms the biggest change in my life. It doesn’t work.“You didn’t have to drive me,” I sa
Stevie’s POVThis has to be the fanciest kidnapping in the history of bad ideas.I’m standing in the foyer of Calvin’s penthouse, staring at the polished marble floors, the towering windows, and a chandelier that looks like it could fund a small country. Everything about this place screams luxury—to
Calvin’s POVHospitals always feel the same—like time slows down, stretching every second into an eternity. I’m standing outside Stevie’s room, staring at the door, willing myself to move. My hand hovers near the handle, but I can’t bring myself to push it open.I can hear her voice faintly through
Serena’s POV“Stevie, stay with me,” I mutter, my voice shaking as I keep one arm wrapped around her shoulders. Her weight sags against me, and I feel the panic rising in my chest.“I’m fine,” she whispers weakly, but her pale face and unfocused eyes say otherwise.“You’re not fine,” I snap, flaggin
Serena’s POVThe office feels quieter than usual. Maybe it’s the late hour or the fact that most people have already gone home. But as I glance across the room at Stevie, hunched over her laptop, I know something’s off.She’s always had a way of pushing through, of pretending everything’s fine when
Calvin’s POVFatherhood.The word keeps bouncing around my head, refusing to settle. It feels foreign, heavy. Like trying on a jacket that doesn’t fit but knowing you’re stuck wearing it anyway.I stare out the window of my office, watching the city buzz below. Cars honk. People hustle. Life moves o
Stevie’s POVI’m pacing my living room, muttering to myself like a lunatic.“Calvin, listen—no, that’s too polite.” I stop and shake my head, trying again. “Look, Calvin, I don’t owe you an explanation. That’s better. Straight to the point. No room for debate.”I glance at the mirror above my couch
Calvin’s POVI see her before she sees me.Stevie’s stepping out of the building, her bag slung over her shoulder, sunglasses perched on her nose. She looks like she’s trying to blend into the crowd, which is almost funny considering Stevie Malone doesn’t exactly do subtle.“Stevie,” I call, walking
Serena’s POVI spot Stevie slipping out of the ballroom as I’m finishing up a conversation with a PR exec. She moves quickly, almost like she’s trying not to be seen, but I know her too well. The slight wobble in her steps, the way she clutches her bag like it’s holding her together — it’s a dead gi