Knoxville My dad clapped his hands together, the sharp sound echoing through the room as he stared at me with an expression of genuine admiration. His eyes sparkled, and a wide smile spread across his face."I am so impressed," he exclaimed, his voice filled with warmth and pride. "I can't believe you put those people in their place."I scoffed, feeling a surge of satisfaction knowing I had finally earned his approval. It had been years since I'd seen that look of genuine admiration on his face."Dad, I didn't do much," I said nonchalantly, sinking deeper into the plush sofa, my back resting comfortably against the cushions. "I just let them know their place and when not to discuss business and rivalry."My dad's smile never wavered. "That's exactly what I'm talking about, son," he said, walking closer to me. "You're showing the kind of strength and leadership I knew you were capable of."He paused, his eyes locked onto mine."You're beginning to understand the importance of assertiv
Knoxville POV I slowly opened my eyes, groggily taking in my surroundings. The sterile hospital room came into focus, and my gaze landed on Henry's worried face beside me. His eyes, red-rimmed showing tiredness, sparkled with relief."Thank God you're awake, sir," Henry exclaimed, his tone filled with concern. He grasped my shoulder, helping me sit up."How many hours have I been here?" I asked, my voice rough from sleep.Henry smiled weakly. "Just four hours."I shot him a wry glance. "Just four hours?" I repeated, swinging my legs over the side of the bed. A wave of dizziness washed over me, and Henry quickly steadied me."Easy, sir. You should take it slow."I stood up, testing my balance. "Did anyone aside from you know I'm here?" I asked, already knowing the answer.Henry shook his head. "No, sir. I made sure to keep it private.""Great. Don't tell anyone, including my father," I instructed, my voice firm.Henry's brow furrowed. "But, sir—"I raised a hand, silencing him. "No di
Weeks later Knoxville sat alone in the lavish restaurant, rented by his father for this ill-timed date. Despite his reservations, he had no choice but to be there. The elegant decor and soft lighting did little to ease his apprehension.He checked his wristwatch for what felt like the hundredth time, wondering why his mysterious date was running late. To pass the time, he pulled out his phone and began scrolling mindlessly.Suddenly, the sound of heels clicking on the marble floor caught his attention. He didn't bother looking up, indifferent to the woman's arrival.That was, until she sat directly across from him.Knoxville's eyes lingered on his phone for a moment before he took a deep breath, pocketed his device, and raised his gaze.His eyes locked onto the woman's, and his jaw dropped in stunned silence."Electra?" he whispered, incredulous.Electra's smirk was radiant, her piercing green eyes sparkling with amusement."So, it's you, ex-husband," she purred, her voice dripping w
Maxwell settled into the plush couch, his gaze locking onto Electra's. Her piercing green eyes sparkled with curiosity as she wondered why he was giving her that intense look."Electra," Maxwell began, his deep voice filled with sincerity. "I want you to be my girlfriend. Let's date."Electra's laughter burst forth like a sunlit splash, her cheeks flushing pink. "I guess you joke a lot," she said, trying to compose herself.But Maxwell's expression remained serious. "I mean it, Electra. I want us to date, and if possible, get married soon."Electra's eyes widened, surprise etched on her face. "When did you start thinking about this?" she asked, her voice laced with intrigue.Maxwell's eyes softened, his voice vulnerable. "Recently. To be sincere, I don't get drawn to girls easily. They've broken my heart in the past... but something about you is just unique."Electra's lips curled into a gentle smile, her voice tinged with empathy. "I must admit, you're a nice and good-looking guy...
As I sat behind my mahogany desk, staring out the floor-to-ceiling windows, memories of Electra flooded my mind. Our chance encounter had reignited a flame I thought was long extinguished. My newfound resolve to make amends was tempered by the knowledge that she now resented me deeply.Henry's entrance broke the spell, his sharp knock on the doorframe announcing his arrival. I swiveled my chair, facing him with an air of anticipation."What did you find out?" I asked, my voice low and urgent.Henry's expression turned skeptical, his eyebrows arching. "I found out five years ago, after you threw her out of the house, she got into an accident. But she narrowly escaped, lucky to be alive." His pause hung in the air like a challenge.I felt a pang of guilt, my conscience pricking.Henry continued, his tone measured. "She moved to England and has only just returned. She and her brother are now handling their parent's company."My curiosity got the better of me. "Is that all you found out?"
Electra strode into the company, her stilettos clicking against the polished marble floor, echoing through the hallway. Her new personal assistant, Joyce, kept pace beside her."What's my schedule for today?" Electra asked, her authoritative voice commanding attention.Joyce consulted her tablet. "After leaving the office, your parents want you to meet them at Mr. Richardo's place. They'll be waiting for you."Electra's steps halted abruptly, and she turned to face Joyce, her piercing gaze scrutinizing. "Why didn't you inform me earlier? What's the occasion?" Her tone dripped with annoyance, her perfectly shaped eyebrows furrowed.Joyce's eyes widened slightly, her voice apologetic. "I'm sorry for not informing you earlier, ma'am. It won't happen again."Electra's expression remained stern. "That's not all that matters now. I'm asking you, why did Mom want me to come there?" Her voice rose, a hint of frustration seeping in.Joyce's eyes darted nervously around the hallway before focus
Mr. Richardo's curiosity got the better of him. "How did you two meet?"Maxwell's eyes never left Electra's. "Dad, this is the girl I was telling you about – the one I plan to marry."Knoxville's face darkened, his anger palpable. "Did you just say the woman you want to marry?" he spat.Maxwell's expression remained nonchalant. "Yes, any problem?"Knoxville's laughter sent a chill through the air. "You're joking, right? That must be a joke." He took a menacing step closer to Maxwell.Electra sprang to her feet, her voice firm. "What are you doing, Knoxville? Want to attack my boyfriend now? Didn't I tell you I'm not interested in you?"The room fell silent, with all eyes on Electra.Mrs. Scofield's eyes widened in shock. "Electra, dear, what's going on?"Mr. Richardo's face turned stern. "Knoxville, calm down. Let's discuss this civilly."Maxwell's gaze locked onto Knoxville's, a silent challenge.Knoxville's fists clenched. "You think you can just swoop in and steal her? She's mine.
Electra POV I stood frozen, my mind reeling from the shocking revelation. Knoxville and Maxwell, brothers? I never saw that coming. Their contrasting personalities baffled me - Maxwell's calm demeanor versus Knoxville's explosive temper.Memories flooded my thoughts. When I first met Knoxville, he seemed just like Maxwell - composed, charming. But that facade crumbled, revealing a manipulative, cheating heart. He used me, betrayed me with my friend, and discarded me like trash.A chill ran down my spine. Their family's history painted a disturbing picture. Knoxville's father, a philandering man who cheated on his mother with his secretary, spawning Maxwell. Was this toxic behavior ingrained in their DNA?"I made a mistake calling him my boyfriend," I muttered.My lips trembled, bitten hard to stem the emotions.I had lied, of course. Knoxville was my ex-husband, a secret I dared not reveal. Better to keep it hidden, avoid the messy truth.My eyes wandered, lost in thought. Had I esca
"Mr. Knoxville, the blood on the cloth matches yours," the doctor announced, his voice measured.Knoxville's eyes widened as he took a long, deep breath, processing the revelation."I knew I was right," he whispered, his voice trembling. "She actually had my child."His mind reeled, memories flooding back.The doctor's expression turned curious. "Did you have a child, Doctor Knoxville?" he asked.Knoxville's gaze snapped up. "Steve, I've told you to stop referring to me as 'Doctor'," he corrected. "I stopped practicing surgeon a long time ago."The doctor's smile faltered. "Sorry, old habit,"Dr Steve said. "And, by the way, we used to be colleagues. You didn't bother inviting me to your wedding."Knoxville stood, his movements deliberate. "That's because I didn't have one," he replied, his tone even.Steve's eyes widened. "You're still married to your work, I see," he quipped."I think you should mind your business," Knoxville said, his voice firm, as he stood up, ready to walk out o
As they waited anxiously, the hospital staff rushed the little girl into the operating theater. Electra slumped against the wall, worry etched on her face.Knoxville stood beside Henry, his voice low. "She called her her daughter. Are you sure she's her niece, like you claimed?"Henry's expression turned cautious. "That's the information I found. Did you suspect something was off?"Knoxville's brow furrowed. "Why did I feel a connection with the girl? And she said 'we will lose her'... It sounded like more than just concern for a niece."Henry's eyes narrowed. "I'll investigate further.""Did you think I should ask her?" Knoxville wondered aloud, his brow furrowed in contemplation. "Why did I have the feeling she has a daughter for me?"Henry's expression turned thoughtful. "The little girl has the same eyes as you, even though she looks like Electra. I clearly saw it before she closed her eyes. It was as if I was looking at you."Knoxville's gaze intensified, his mind racing. "I shou
Author POV "Gosh! What's this?" Knoxville asked Henry, his voice laced with incredulity as he gazed at the unusual location."That's where he chose, Sir. And Maxwell refused to go," Henry explained, his expression neutral. "So your dad insisted you take his place."I couldn't help but clench my fist together, frustration simmering beneath my surface."What type of human would choose such an important meeting to happen at the Zoo?" Knoxville asked, shaking his head."He's a client, an investor, for that matter," Henry replied, his tone measured. "We should respect his decision, Sir."Knoxville's eyes narrowed. "Respect? This is unorthodox, Henry. What's the logic behind meeting at the reptile house?"Henry's expression remained composed. "Mr. Jenkins has a fascination with exotic animals, Sir. He believes the unconventional setting will foster creative thinking."Knoxville snorted. "Creative thinking? Or is he just trying to ruffle our feathers?"Henry's gaze flicked to Knoxville befo
Electra POV Arriving home, exhausted from the long day, I pushed open the door and was immediately enveloped in the warm glow of the living room. My gaze fell upon the most precious sight - my baby, peacefully sleeping on the sofa, her tiny chest rising and falling with each gentle breath.I walked softly towards her, not wanting to disturb her serene slumber. Her tiny hands were curled into fists, and her soft, pink lips were slightly parted, emitting tiny puffs of air." Why did you let her sleep on the sofa?" I asked her nanny, trying to keep my voice down. "Why didn't you take her to her room?"Nanny looked up from her seat beside my baby, a sympathetic smile on her face. "She just fell asleep, and she insisted on waiting for you because you promised to spend the night with her. But she fell asleep before you came home, and I didn't want to move her."I felt a pang of guilt and regret, scooping up my baby into my arms. "There was traffic, that's why I'm late," I explained, feelin
Maxwell's eyes sparkled with curiosity as Electra settled into their table for two at the upscale restaurant. The soft glow of candlelight danced across her face, illuminating her radiant smile."You seem positively electrified today," Maxwell observed, his voice tinged with amusement.Electra's eyes shone like stars, her enthusiasm irrepressible. "I am! Today, I finally get to meet Rachael Lee."Maxwell's eyebrows shot up in surprise. "You mean the Rachael Lee?" he asked, his tone incredulous.Electra nodded vigorously, her ponytail bouncing with the motion. "The one and only – Rachael Lee, President of KT Company."Maxwell whistled softly. "That's a big deal. What's the meeting about?"Electra leaned in, her voice filled with excitement. "You won't believe the news. She's investing in our project, taking a whopping 25 percent share."Maxwell's eyebrows shot up in incredulity. "KT, of all companies? They've been unresponsive to our messages despite being above them, let alone investi
Electra and Matthew stood outside the company, flanked by their employees, who were all buzzing with anticipation. They awaited the arrival of the esteemed Mrs. Rachael Lee, a business magnate renowned for her shrewd acumen and impeccable taste.Suddenly, a sleek convoy of three cars glided into the company's parking lot, coming to a halt directly in front of the building. The employees straightened, their faces set with respect.A burly guard swiftly exited the lead vehicle and hastened to open the door for Mrs. Lee. As she emerged, her poised figure commanded attention. Her tailored suit accentuated her confident stride.The employees bowed slightly, their heads dipping in unison, before respectfully lifting their gazes to meet hers.Electra and Matthew stepped forward, warm smiles spreading across their faces."Welcome, Mrs. Rachael Lee," Electra said, her voice infused with sincerity. "It's an honor to finally meet you."Matthew echoed Electra's greeting, his handshake firm.Mrs.
Aunty Rachael had asked me to meet her and my mother at their usual spot, a place filled with nostalgia and cherished memories. Despite not having been there in a long time, I felt a surge of excitement as I made my way to the location.As I pulled up to the area, I was taken aback by its transformation. The once-familiar landscape had undergone a stunning metamorphosis."Are you sure it's this area?" Henry asked, his brow furrowed in confusion. "This place looks so modernized."I smiled, nostalgia washing over me. "It's my mum and aunt's holiday resort," I explained. "I couldn't forget this place, even if I tried. The area was just renovated, that's all."Henry's eyes widened as he took in the sleek, contemporary buildings and lush greenery. "Wow, it's unrecognizable," he said.As we stepped out of the car, the warm sunshine and gentle breeze enveloped us, carrying the sweet scent of blooming flowers.I led Henry through the resort's elegant entrance, where a sparkling water feature
Knoxville POVI sat at my desk, surrounded by stacks of files and documents, my eyes scanning the papers as I worked. Henry stood beside me, his helpful presence a welcome respite from the chaos of the day."I've been wondering," Henry said, his voice low and thoughtful. "Are you absolutely sure your dad didn't know about the KT company?"I looked up, meeting Henry's inquiring gaze. "Of course not," I replied, my tone confident. "It was registered under my name and my mother's."Henry's eyebrows furrowed. "But what does KT stand for?"I leaned back in my chair, a mix of emotions swirling within me. "K stands for Knoxville, my name, and T stands for Tiana, her first name."Henry's eyes widened. "It's a family legacy, then?"I nodded. "Yes. It's actually a foundation started by my mother. She wanted to tell Dad about it, but..." My voice trailed off, memories flooding my mind."She found out something, didn't she?" Henry prodded gently.I sighed. "Yes. She discovered something that mad
Knoxville's face darkened, his eyes blazing with intensity. He took a deep breath, his fist clenched together, as if restraining himself from lashing out. "I don't believe you can win," he growled. "Once a loser, always a loser. You've always been a loser, and I won't watch you win."Maxwell burst into laughter, his eyes sparkling with amusement. "I guess I should have known who I'm dealing with," he said, chuckling. "I forgot you're a stone that can't be broken easily."Knoxville's jaw clenched, his anger palpable. "It's good you remember," he warned, his voice low and menacing. "I'll give you my last warning: don't joke with her. Electra's off-limits."Maxwell's grin widened, his eyes glinting with defiance. "I'll do more than joke with her," he challenged. "I'll marry Electra, and you'll do nothing about it."The air thickened with tension as Knoxville's face twisted in rage. His fists trembled, and for a moment, it seemed he might lunge at Maxwell."You're pushing your luck," Knox