James’ POV The conference room was heating with energy as the team prepared for a high-profile meeting with an international client. Michael had been relentless in ensuring everything was perfect, and Sophia was tasked with translating for the French-speaking client. I sat at the far end of the room, watching her as she organized her notes and reviewed key phrases. Her confidence was undeniable, but I could see an opportunity to shake her foundation. Today, I’d challenge her expertise and plant a seed of doubt not only in Michael’s mind but also in her own. The client arrived a tall, sharply dressed Frenchman named Monsieur Duvall. He greeted everyone warmly, speaking in rapid French that left most of the team smiling awkwardly, save for Sophia. “Bienvenue,” she said, her tone was smooth and professional as she stepped forward to translate. Michael gestured for everyone to take their seats, his commanding presence kept the room focused. Sophia began the translation seamles
Sophia’s POV I sat at my desk, staring blankly at my screen. My mind wasn’t on the spreadsheet in front of me. Instead, it was replaying the countless times James had inserted himself into my work over the past few weeks. His constant interruptions during meetings, his “accidental” oversights in reports, and his overly helpful behavior with the team,it all seemed too good to be true. Something about him didn’t sit right with me, and I couldn’t shake the feeling that James Wisdom was up to no good. I was trying to connect the dots when a shadow fell across my desk. I looked up, and there he was the devil himself, James Wisdom. “Hey, Sophia,” he said, in a smooth and friendly voice, the kind of tone that would disarm most people. “You’ve been working pretty hard today. How about taking a break and grabbing lunch with me? Luxe Café has this incredible pasta special, and I could really use the company.” I blinked, taken aback. “Thanks, but I’m not sure I” “Come on,” he cut me
James’ POVThe last few days had been a whirlwind of tension and failed attempts. Every move I made to undermine Sophia seemed to backfire, and Cindy’s calls had become an unbearable source of stress. So, I decided to ignore them. That wasn’t working out well either. Sitting in my office, I tried to concentrate on the report I was drafting, but the weight of Cindy’s threats hung over me like a dark cloud. The faint sound of heels clicking down the hall jolted me from my thoughts. I glanced at the time on my computer. It was too early for a scheduled meeting. The door creaked open, and it was Cindy, wrapped in an oversized trench coat,In deep green, cinched tightly at the waist with a matching belt, hinting at its luxury a custom-made piece from a high-end designer. The coat had a dramatic flair, its hem brushing just above her knees, hiding what lay beneath and adding an air of intrigue. Underneath, glimpses of her silk blouse in ivory white could be seen at the collar, softly
Sophia’s POV I decided to indulge in one of my little pleasures,a fruity cocktail during lunch, non-alcoholic but still vibrant enough to make me feel like I was treating myself. Sitting at my desk, sipping my drink, I let my mind wander for a moment. Then it hit me. The file. My stomach dropped as I realized Michael had asked me to submit an important report earlier that morning. A glance at the clock told me it was already past the deadline. My Heart raced, I quickly grabbed the file from my desk and started going toward his office, my heels clicked against the tiled floor as I moved in a flurry. Halfway down the hallway, I stopped abruptly, my thoughts racing. I had forgotten to include one final document in the report. Gritting my teeth, I turned back toward my office. As I approached the door, I saw something that made me freeze in my tracks. Through the glass panel on the door, James was standing at my desk, his back to me. He was hunched over, his hands moving over som
Sophia’s POV I was finally packing up my things, ready to leave. But then, everything went blurry. A wave of dizziness hit me like a truck. My vision darkened at the edges, and the room spun violently. I barely had time to grip the edge of my desk before my knees buckled. The last thing I heard before everything went black was the sound of Laura’s sharp gasp. When they came, faint murmurs filled the air. My body felt heavy, my head was pounding as if someone were drumming against my skull. "Get everyone in here!" Laura’s panicked voice cut through the haze. I blinked slowly, trying to make sense of my surroundings, but the voices around me blurred together. Water splashed on my face, and I flinched, the cool sensation pulling me slightly back to reality. “Someone call Mr. Mahone!” Laura yelled, her voice trembling. I vaguely heard hurried footsteps, then another voice Michael’s deep and commanding tone. “What happened?” he demanded, his sharp words cutting through
Sophia’s POV It had been two days since Michael insisted I stay in his penthouse, and I was still adjusting to the quiet luxury surrounding me. The mornings were peaceful, but I couldn’t help but notice something unusual. Michael hadn’t gone to work since I arrived. Michael Mahone, the workaholic billionaire who wouldn’t miss a day in the office even if the world were ending, was taking time off. It didn’t sit right with me. This morning, I wore a long shirt that hung loosely around my knees. It was one of Michael’s soft, oversized, and surprisingly comforting. I perched on the wide window frame in the guest room, staring out at the expanse of his compound. His luxury cars,Michael’s garage was nothing short of an automobile lover's paradise, a sprawling underground showroom that reflected his wealth and impeccable taste.As I gazed at the collection, I couldn’t help but feel a mixture of disbelief. The garage itself was sleekly designed with polished concrete floors. The walls
Cindy’s POV Michael hadn’t been home for five days, and I was wondering. It wasn’t unusual for him to disappear into his work, but this time it felt personal. He hadn’t answered my calls or texts, and Theo had become annoyingly tight-lipped whenever I tried to pry for information. To make matters worse, James Wisdom had gone completely silent. It had been weeks since I paid him to handle Sophia, and I’d yet to see the results I was promised. The lack of communication from him was infuriating. If Sophia was still working at Mahone Group, I’d be dealing with that failure today. The combination of Michael’s absence and James’s incompetence had me seething. If I wanted answers, I’d have to get them myself. When I walked into Mahone Group’s headquarters, I was met with the usual whispers and stares from the staff. My presence always turned heads. I had dressed for power today, opting for a fitted red blazer over a sleek black dress that clung to my curves just enough to command att
Sophia’s POV The past few weeks had been nothing short of a holiday for me. Michael had kept me away from the office and all the chaos that came with it. I stayed at his luxurious penthouse, a place where stress seemed to melt away. He ensured I was pampered and cared for in ways I’d never experienced. But it wasn’t just the special treatment that left me feeling different,it was Michael himself. The man who had once been cold and detached was now showing glimpses of fervor, even vulnerability. His care wasn’t just transactional anymore; it felt real, and I couldn’t help but fall for him. And then there was that night. For the first time in years, I had a proper, intimate moment with Michael. It wasn’t just about dominance or control,it was different. There was a tenderness to him that made my chest tighten, and the memory of his touch played on a loop in my mind. This morning, I finally resumed work, refreshed and focused. Michael had a big business trip planned and had as
Sophia’s POV“Drive faster, please.”My voice was shaky, my breath uneven as I sat curled up in the back seat of the taxi. My entire body trembled, my hands gripping my lap so tightly that my nails dug into my skin.I couldn’t go home.Cindy’s men would find me. They knew where I lived. If I went back to my apartment, I would be walking straight into a trap.So there was only one place I could go.Crystal.She was the only person I trusted. The only person who had been by my side through everything.I gave the taxi driver her address, and the moment he started driving, my emotions crashed down on me like a tidal wave.My chest felt tight, my stomach twisted in knots. I replayed everything that had happened tonight, and with every passing second, my rage grew stronger.Cindy had taken everything from me.She had trapped me in that disgusting club, turned me into a stripper, humiliated me in front of strangers… and then, as if that wasn’t enough, she had tried to sell me off to a monste
Sophia’s POVFor a brief moment, I thought I had won.When I stormed off the stage, refusing to let Cindy humiliate me any further, I believed that was the end of it that they would let me go, that I had broken free from whatever twisted game she was playing.But I was wrong.So wrong.“That was quite the stunt you pulled on stage,” Cindy said, her tone slow and calculated, her sharp eyes watching me like a predator watching its prey.I clenched my fists. “I’m done, Cindy. I’m not doing this anymore.”Her smirk widened. “Oh, sweetheart. You don’t get to decide that.”I glared at her. “You can’t force me to do this.”Her eyes darkened.“I don’t need to force you, Sophia. You already signed the contract. You belong to me now.”“I don’t belong to you!” I snapped, my voice rising.She sighed dramatically, rolling her eyes. “I really hate when people make things difficult.”Then, without warning, she turned to the guards and waved a lazy hand. “Take her upstairs. She has a guest to attend
Sophia’s POVAs I stepped onto the stage, my heart pounded so loudly that it drowned out the heavy bass of the music playing in the background.Bright neon lights flashed across the room, casting shades of red and blue over the crowd. The air smelled of alcohol, sweat, and expensive cologne. The atmosphere was thick and suffocating, trapping me in a world I didn’t belong in.I wrapped my trembling fingers around the cold metal pole, my grip unsteady. My legs felt weak beneath me, and my stomach twisted painfully.I could feel hundreds of eyes on me.Watching. Waiting. Expecting.Men filled the front rows, leaning forward, their faces full of excitement. Others lounged in the VIP booths, drinks in hand, their expressions smug and predatory.Then, I saw them.Stacks of dollar bills.Being thrown at my feet. Being waved in the air. Being offered to me like I was a product for sale.A cold shiver ran down my spine.This wasn’t me.This wasn’t who I was supposed to be.I swallowed hard, tr
Sophia’s POVThe blonde-haired woman stood in front of me, arms crossed, her lips curled into a smirk.“Follow me,” she said, turning on her heels.I hesitated for a moment before forcing my legs to move. My entire body was tense, and my stomach twisted painfully as I followed her down a dimly lit hallway. The air smelled of cheap perfume, sweat, and alcohol, making it harder for me to breathe.She led me to a large room, filled with women who were practicing on poles. Some moved with effortless grace, spinning, flipping, and twirling around the metal bars as if they had been born to do this. Othersnewer ones, I assumed struggled, their hands gripping the poles shakily as they tried to mimic the more experienced dancers.The room was covered with bright red lights, casting a soft, seductive glow. A loud, bass-heavy song played in the background, setting the rhythm for the women who swayed their bodies in sync with the beat.I felt completely out of place.I didn’t belong here.This w
Sophia’s POVThe sound of my phone ringing pulled me from my restless sleep. My eyes fluttered open, and for a moment, I forgot where I was. Then reality crashed into me.The debt. Cindy. The legal action.I quickly sat up, my heart pounding as I reached for my phone. My fingers felt clumsy as I swiped to answer.“Hello?” My voice came out hoarse.“Miss Sophia?” The voice on the other end was firm and professional.“Yes?”“This is Mr. Thompson, the legal representative of the debt company. You are required to come to the office immediately to discuss the terms of the action being taken against you.”I swallowed hard. “I… I understand. I’ll be there soon.”The call ended abruptly.I sat on the edge of my bed, gripping my phone tightly. My chest felt tight, and I could feel the familiar wave of anxiety building up. This was it.Cindy wasn’t playing games anymore.I took a deep breath and forced myself to move. I couldn’t afford to waste time.The building looked even colder than before
Sophia’s POVThe sound of my phone ringing pulled me from my restless sleep. My eyes fluttered open, and for a moment, I forgot where I was. Then reality crashed into me.The debt. Cindy. The legal action.I quickly sat up, my heart pounding as I reached for my phone. My fingers felt clumsy as I swiped to answer.“Hello?” My voice came out hoarse.“Miss Sophia?” The voice on the other end was firm and professional.“Yes?”“This is Mr. Thompson, the legal representative of the debt company. You are required to come to the office immediately to discuss the terms of the action being taken against you.”I swallowed hard. “I… I understand. I’ll be there soon.”The call ended abruptly.I sat on the edge of my bed, gripping my phone tightly. My chest felt tight, and I could feel the familiar wave of anxiety building up. This was it.Cindy wasn’t playing games anymore.I took a deep breath and forced myself to move. I couldn’t afford to waste time.The building looked even colder than before
Sophia’s POVThe pain in my stomach wasn’t going away, and I was starting to panic. I didn’t know if it was because of stress, exhaustion, or something more serious. I had ignored my health for too long, and now my body was punishing me for it.I grabbed my phone with shaky hands and dialed Charles’ number. He was the only doctor I trusted. The phone rang for a few seconds before he picked up.“Hello, Sophia?” His voice was calm but concerned.“Charles… are you at the hospital?” I asked, my voice barely above a whisper.“Yes, I’m here. What’s wrong?”I took a deep breath, pressing my free hand against my stomach. “I’m having really bad stomach pain. I don’t know what’s wrong, but it’s not stopping.”There was a pause before he said, “Come to the hospital now. I’ll check on you.”I nodded, even though he couldn’t see me. “Okay. I’m on my way.”Crystal, who had been watching me the whole time, immediately stood up. “What did he say?”“He told me to come now,” I said, my voice unsteady.
Sophia’s POVMy phone buzzed, and a strange fear gripped my chest.For a moment, I didn’t want to look. I already knew what it was about. My debts. My failures.Slowly, I picked up my phone, my hands trembling. It was from Cindy.“I see you haven’t been meeting up with your debt lately. Legal actions will be taken tomorrow.”A cold shiver ran down my spine. I felt like the air had been knocked out of my lungs.This couldn’t be happening.I had tried my best. I had been paying whatever little I could, just enough to cover the interest, hoping it would buy me more time. But Cindy wasn’t willing to wait any longer.Legal actions.The words made my head spin. What did that even mean? Would they take me to court? Would they freeze my accounts? Would I be arrested?I jumped to my feet, my heart pounding. I needed to go to the debt company. I needed to beg.I rushed to my closet, pulling out the first clothes I could find. My hands were shaking so much that I struggled to put on my jeans. I
Sophia’s POVI gripped the steering wheel tightly, my heart hammering against my ribs as I drove towards Michael’s penthouse. The city lights blurred in the distance, but my mind was sharper than ever.Enough was enough.For weeks, I had endured his mood swings, his cold indifference, and his unexplained anger. But this wasn’t just about him anymore. I had to tell him the truth.I rested my hand against my stomach, barely registering the subtle changes in my body. The nausea, the fatigue all signs of life growing inside me.I needed to know where we stood.Would he accept this child? Would he push me away?Would he finally acknowledge that what we had whatever it was meant something?I shook my head. There was no point in thinking about it now. I just needed to tell him.As I reached his building, I stepped out of the car, my legs trembling slightly beneath me. The elevator ride to the penthouse felt like an eternity. My heart pounded so violently that I thought I might throw up again