Sophia’s POV A message from Michael arrived in the Morning, Theo had dropped it off before going to work.I wasn’t surprised by the request for dinner. It was typical for him to call meetings at odd hours, always under the guise of “business.” What was surprising, though, was the accompanying package delivered to my apartment ,an elegant black dress that was both understated and breathtaking. I held it up, marveling at the silky fabric. Was this really necessary for a business dinner? The restaurant was one of the most exclusive in the city, with its dim lighting, soft music, and a quiet hum of refined conversation filling the air. Michael was already seated when I arrived, his usual commanding presence tempered by a weariness that caught me off guard. “You look stunning,” he said simply, standing as I approached. “Thank you,” I replied, sliding into the seat across from him. “Shall we get straight to it? What’s this business discussion about?” But before I could dive in
Michael’s POVI had just returned from an early morning sightseeing and was trying to settle down in my office when the door swung open. Without even looking up, I already knew who it was, the heavy steps, the overconfident air,it could only be Fred George because he informed me earlier that he was going to come around.“Michael Mahone,” Fred’s deep voice boomed, his grin widened as he walked in. I set down my pen, leaning back in my chair. “Fred,” I said flatly. “Good to see you again” Fred George was a long-time business partner and one of the most influential men in the state. He was powerful, wealthy, and insufferably nosy. Fred adjusted his tie, settling back into the chair opposite my desk.“So,” Fred began, crossing one leg over the other, “I’ve been working on something big, and I think it’s the perfect opportunity for us to collaborate.” I leaned back in my chair, my fingers steepled. “I’m listening.” Fred smirked. “I’ve been negotiating with Harstone Industries. Th
Sophia’s POV I was at my desk, focused on a report, when I noticed Cindy gliding toward me. Her heels clicked sharply against the floor. “Sophia,” she said sweetly, resting her manicured hand on the edge of my desk. Her tone dripped with faux kindness, but her eyes gleamed with malice. “Cindy,” I replied cautiously, setting my pen down. “I was going over the recent transactions for my company,” she began, leaning closer. “And I noticed your last payment,two thousand dollars, wasn’t it?” I froze, the hairs on the back of my neck standing up. Cindy’s smile widened, her voice lowering to a mockingly sympathetic tone. “Out of two hundred fifty thousand dollars, I must say, I’m... unimpressed.” I clenched my fists under the desk, willing myself to stay calm. “I know you’re trying your best,” she continued, her tone sharper now, “but let me remind you of the terms you signed. If you don’t keep up, you know what happens next. And I think we both know you don’t want that.” He
Cindy’s POV I stood in front of my mirror, adjusting the Gold necklace around my neck. It complimented my light gray silk blouse and tailored trousers perfectly, a sophisticated yet approachable look, exactly what Mrs. Mahone appreciated. Today was important, not just for me, but for my family. My mother, Mrs. Berlick, was accompanying me to visit Michael’s mother, and I needed everything to go flawlessly. “Cindy, have you picked up the wine yet?” my mother’s voice carried down the hallway, sharp and commanding. I grabbed my bag and joined her in the living room. She looked as elegant as ever in a navy dress.“No, Mother,” I replied. “I was about to head to the wine store now.” “Good,” she said, smoothing her gloves. “Make sure it’s from Viña El Cielo. Three bottles, at least. Anything less wouldn’t be appropriate for Mrs. Mahone.” “Of course,” I said, already making a mental note. “And don’t forget,” she added, her tone dropping slightly, “this visit is about solidifying
Sophia’s POV I was leaving Michael’s office late in the evening after finalizing a report when I noticed a small piece of paper tucked under my windshield wiper. At first, I thought it was some sort of flyer, but as I unfolded it, my heart sank. “Be careful who you trust.”There was no name, no context, just those five words scrawled in a messy, almost frantic handwriting. I glanced around the dimly lit parking lot, half-expecting someone to jump out of the shadows. But there was nothing. Shaking off the unease, I crumpled the note and tossed it into the nearest trash can. “Probably some weirdo,” I muttered to myself, trying to convince myself it meant nothing. The feeling of unease didn’t go away. A few nights later, I was working late again, organizing files in the translation department. The office was quiet, the usual hum of activity replaced by silence. I was so absorbed in my task that it wasn’t until I looked up that I noticed the shadow. It flickered just beyond t
Sophia’s POVThe morning started like any other day . I decided to distract myself with chores, starting with organizing the paperwork cluttering my dining table. Bills, notes, and work documents were strewn everywhere, and I carefully stacked them into neat piles. That’s when I saw the balance statement from Cindy’s debt company. I froze, my eyes fixating on the bold print: *$248,000.* It mocked me, a constant reminder of my entrapment. Cindy’s manipulation had turned my already dire situation into a waking nightmare. No matter how much I paid, the balance never seemed to shrink. With a deep breath, I shoved the paper to the bottom of the pile. There was no use dwelling on it now. A knock on the door startled me. I wasn’t expecting anyone, and for a brief moment, my mind flashed to the black roses and the shadowy figure from the grocery store. Cautiously, I approached the door. “Who is it?” “It’s Crystal.” Relief flooded through me as I opened the door. Crystal stood th
Sophia’s POVThe mall echoed with the chatter of shoppers and the murmur of soft music playing overhead. Michael and I had come to restock some office essentials that had run out, and, as always, he was all business. His movements were brisk, while I followed a step behind, juggling a basket overflowing with notebooks, printer cartridges, and enough pens to last a year. “Is that everything?” Michael asked as we stood near the stationery hall. “I think so,” I replied, glancing at the list on my phone. “Good. Let’s pay and get out of here,” he said.We began walking toward the checkout counter when a familiar voice stopped me in my tracks. “Sophia?” I turned sharply, my eyes widening as I saw a man standing just a few feet away. He was tall and lean, with kind eyes that crinkled at the corners when he smiled. It took me a second to recognize him, but when I did, I couldn’t stop the grin that spread across my face. “Charles?” I gasped, dropping everything I was holding. The b
Sophia’s POVAs I prepared for the day. A text notification popped up on my phone just as I finished dressing. It was from Charles. Charles: "Hey Sophia, looking forward to catching up! The café’s called Roastery Bliss on Easton Avenue. See you at noon."I stared at the message, a wave of warmness spread through me. It felt surreal to reconnect with someone who knew me before life became so... complicated. I glanced at the clock. It was only 10 a.m., but I had taken the morning off to ensure I’d be on time. It wasn’t like me to prioritize anything over work, but Charles is just someone who I would like to speak to over and over again forever if I have to.The café was a quaint, cozy spot nestled in the heart of Easton Avenue. Its glass walls reflected the bustling street outside, while the inside exuded calm a mix of warm wooden furniture, hanging plants, and the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee. I spotted Charles immediately. He was seated by a window, his tall frame slightl
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