After trudging along for about 15 minutes, Henry finally spoke up, his voice laced with exasperation. "Aren't we supposed to take a taxi? We can't continue walking like this," he said, wiping the sweat from his forehead.Knoxville chuckled, a low, husky sound, and continued walking without breaking stride. "I told you to let me be, you should have gone with them," he replied, his tone dismissive.Henry's concern deepened as he struggled to keep up with Knoxville's brisk pace. "How many miles are you going to go? You're going to get tired," Henry said, his breathing growing heavier.Knoxville didn't slow down, his eyes fixed on some point ahead. "That's my business. It's all my decision," he said curtly, without waiting up.Henry stood there, mopping the sweat from his brow before taking off after Knoxville. "I need water! I'm thirsty," Henry said, his voice tinged with desperation.Knoxville finally stopped and turned around, his eyes narrowing as he gazed at Henry. "What kind of PA a
Gladys's eyes sparkled with excitement as she tugged on her mother's hand. "Mum, please let's go to the park! I want to see what it looks like. I want to know if it's comparable to the ones we visited in England," she asked, her voice filled with curiosity and enthusiasm.Electra raised an eyebrow, a hint of annoyance flickering across her face. "We can go there some other time, Gladys," she replied, her tone dismissive.But Gladys was insistent. She shook her head negatively, her ponytail bobbing behind her. "No, Mum, please let's go today. You promised me we'd spend quality time together today, and we have plenty of time left. I don't want to go back to the house now," she pleaded, her voice rising with determination.Gladys's eyes locked onto her mother's, her gaze unwavering. She could see the hesitation in Electra's expression and knew she had to persuade her. "Please, Mum? It'll be fun, I promise!" she added, her smile charming and irresistible.Electra's expression softened, he
"Alright," Knoxville said, rising from his seat with a casual air. He strode away, Henry trailing closely behind. The moment they departed, Gladys darted into the vacated spot, her bright eyes shining with excitement."Mum, I love this place!" she squealed in her signature baby tone, bouncing up and down. Electra's gaze lingered on her daughter's joyful face, but her thoughts drifted elsewhere. Memories of how she had once chosen this very spot with Knoxville resurfaced, flooding her veins with a surge of anger and resentment.Her eyes narrowed, the tension in her body palpable. "Baby, we can't stay here," she said, her voice laced with a forced calm. "Let's find somewhere else. There are plenty of other places to have fun." With a gentle tug, she grasped Gladys's hand, her fingers tightening around her daughter's as she steered her away from the painful reminder.Electra's eyes flashed with a mix of emotions - hurt, anger, and betrayal - as she navigated the crowded space.Gladys's e
Few days later Knoxville stormed into his father's office, his eyes blazing with fury as he took in the scene before him. His father, Mr. Richardo, sat behind his massive mahogany desk, a calm and collected expression on his face. Maxwell sat in one of the leather chairs, a smug look on his face, his arms crossed over his chest."What's going on here?" Knoxville demanded, his deep voice dripping with hostility as he glared at Maxwell. His fists clenched at his sides, his jaw working with suppressed anger."Have a seat, Knoxville," Mr. Richardo instructed, his voice firm but measured, gesturing to the empty chair beside Maxwell.Knoxville's eyes narrowed, his gaze darting between his father and Maxwell. "Why? You know I can't be here with him," he insisted, his voice rising in indignation. "What is he doing here, anyway?""Are you saying I can't talk to my two sons at the same time?" Mr. Richardo asked, his voice rising in surprise, his eyebrows shooting up in incredulity."You should
Electra had finally resumed work, and her diligence was evident in the stack of files and documents scattered across her desk. The soft hum of the air conditioner and the gentle chirping of birds outside created a soothing atmosphere.Matthew walked into her office, his footsteps quiet on the plush carpet. He closed the door behind him, his eyes locking onto Electra's as he settled into the chair opposite her desk."Hey, little bro?" Electra said, her voice warm and teasing, as she raised her head from the papers. "Why are you here?"Matthew's expression turned serious, his eyes holding a hint of secrecy. "I came here because I want to tell you something," he said, his voice low and measured.Electra's curiosity was piqued, her eyes sparkling with interest. "What's that?" she asked, her pen hovering over the paperwork.Matthew leaned back in his chair, a mischievous glint dancing in his eyes. "You must love gossip; see how serious you are," he teased, his voice laced with amusement.E
Mrs. Scofield's gentle voice cut through the tension. "Why are you raising your voice, Electra?"Electra's response was laced with anguish, her anger palpable. "Why wouldn't I raise my voice, Mum?" she asked, her words trembling.Her eyes, brimming with unshed tears, locked onto her mother's. "You're planning an arranged marriage for me without consulting me first, knowing what I endured in my previous marriage."The pain Electra had thought was long buried rose to the surface, her voice cracking under the weight of her emotions.Just then, Mr. Scofield re-entered the study, his brow furrowed in concern. "What's going on here? Are you both fighting again?" he asked, his deep voice a calming presence.The room seemed to pause, the air thick with unspoken emotions. Electra's shoulders sagged, her body language screaming defiance and hurt.Mrs. Scofield's expression transformed, her voice dripping with venom. "You're talking about what you passed through? Was it my fault?" she spat, her
Electra POV From my stool at the bar, I gazed into my drink, my mind reeling with the impossible decision my parents had just presented. Marriage to a complete stranger? The thought sent my heart racing, and my palms grew slick with sweat.I knew better than to argue with my mother; her resolve was unshakeable once she'd made up her mind. And I couldn't bear the thought of my parents fighting because of me.As I scanned the dimly lit bar, the sounds of clinking glasses and muted conversations blurred into the background. My anxiety spiked, making my chest feel tight.Just then, a familiar figure emerged from the crowd, and a wave of relief washed over me. I smiled, my tension easing."Sorry I'm late, I was a bit busy," Maxwell said, sliding onto the stool beside me, his apologetic eyes crinkling at the corners."I actually didn't think you'd come," I admitted, my smile widening as I took in his disheveled hair and worn jeans.Maxwell's presence was a comforting anchor, a reminder tha
Knoxville POV I lounged on the plush couch in my villa, immersed in the latest episode of my favorite show. The soft glow of the TV illuminated the dimly lit room, casting a cozy ambiance. Suddenly, the door swung open, and Henry walked in, shattering the tranquility.I pretended not to notice him, hoping he'd take the hint and leave. But Henry was relentless. He cleared his throat, and when I still didn't acknowledge him, he scoffed.I finally turned to face him, frustration etched on my features. "What again?" I exclaimed, tossing the remote control onto the coffee table. "Today's a weekend, and I told you to go home and rest."Henry shrugged, his nonchalant demeanor igniting my irritation."Well, I don't have a home," he said, his voice laced with a hint of mischief.My growl was low and warning. "You have a house, Henry. This is my home. Go to your house and leave me alone." I spoke in a measured tone, striving to maintain calm.But Henry wasn't deterred. "I know today was suppos
"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