Jason's recollections of the brief encounter returned, intense and persistent. The night had been forgotten for months, hidden deep within his memories. However, it fought its way back, tormenting him as if it were a spirit. It all began innocently—or so he convinced himself. He had been at the bar, trying to cope with the disappointments of yet another unsuccessful business transaction, another day where he felt overwhelmed by the pressures of life. His typical assurance wavered, traded for a dull pain gnawing at his chest. That’s when he saw her—Kendall. Only, he hadn’t known her name then. She had been sitting alone, her posture stiff and her eyes distant, swirling the amber liquid in her glass like it could somehow solve her problems. Jason, though he had gone by *Damien* that night, had been drawn to her immediately. Something about the sadness in her gaze called to him, an emotion he recognized in himself. “Easy, damsel,” Damien had smirked as he approached her, his voice l
Kendall rested against the kitchen counter, her voice slightly shaking as she talked on the phone. "Alicia, I'm unsure of what steps to take.” I did everything we talked about. I followed the plan to the letter, and now... now Jason’s gone."At the opposite side of the call, Alicia spoke in a gentle yet firm manner, providing a sense of peace amidst Kendall's turbulent feelings. "What happened? Did he—did he react badly?"Kendall's gaze shifted to the few unopened letters resting on the dining table, serving as a vivid reminder of the routine she had attempted to change. “He went ballistic, Alicia. He came home after I’d... you know, set everything up. I anticipated his anger, but his level of rage caught me off guard. He yelled and insulted me with every possible name. And then he simply walked away. A week has passed. An entire week has passed, and he still hasn't returned. Not even a text. Nothing.”Alicia let out a deep sigh filled with compassion. I apologize, Kendall. I underst
Kendall gazed at her phone, feeling her heart race as she dialed Jason's number once more. The ringing call tone echoed, each sound hitting her chest like a hammer. She was filled with thoughts of what she wished to express, trying to find a way to make him comprehend.Upon hearing the voicemail notification, she paused to take a deep breath in an attempt to maintain a steady voice. "Jason, this is Kendall," she said, her voice shaking. I understand you may still be upset, and I don't hold it against you. I simply require a conversation with you.Please call me back. I’m really sorry for what happened.”She ended the call, feeling a cold sweat on her brow. Her fingers fumbled as she redialed immediately, hoping this time would be different. The phone rang again, each tone echoing her desperation. The voicemail picked up once more. Jason, I'm at a loss for words. I acknowledge my mistake, but I would like the chance to explain myself. I apologize for violating our agreement. I was tho
Kendall's hands shook a little while she twisted the doorknob to Dr. Sophia's office. The room was perfumed with the clean smell of antiseptic, mixing with the subtle lavender aroma from the essential oil diffuser in the corner. As she walked, her heart raced with growing anxiety.Dr. Sophia glanced away from her desk, her smile welcoming yet her gaze observant. “Kendall, come in. How are you feeling today?”Kendall forced a tight smile as she sank into the chair across from the doctor, her fingers curling into the fabric of her purse. “Nervous, to be honest. It’s been a rough week.”Dr. Sophia’s expression softened with understanding. "I'm certain that it has." However, we should proceed gradually, focusing on each step individually. Our first step will be to conduct a checkup and assess the progress.The doctor guided Kendall to the medical room, where the familiar process of taking vital signs and listening to the baby's heartbeat commenced. Kendall reclined on the exam table, hand
The sounds of Kendall's footsteps reverberated through the empty hallway, each one filled with the gravity of her recent discussion. The unease from Dr. Sophia's office wrapped around her like a cloak. As she approached the exit, Dr. Sophia’s voice cut through the tension.“Kendall, wait a moment.”“Kendal,” Doctor Sophia called out, her voice tinged with an unusual gravity.Kendall halted abruptly, turning to face her with a weary smile. “Doctor Sophia, what’s the matter?”Doctor Sophia’s expression hardened as she approached. I have something crucial to discuss with you. It’s regarding your IVF treatment.”Kendall’s brow furrowed. “Is there another problem?”Doctor Sophia looked around, as though seeking reassurance from the empty hallway. She inhaled deeply. "The sperm used in your IVF cycle has been confused."Kendall felt a chill down her back. She attempted to comprehend the words, but they appeared to spiral and curve like a maze. "What are you saying, a confusion?” Whose sperm
The words of Doctor Sophia hung in the air, sending a chill of fear down Kendall's spine. She fought to maintain a steady voice, but the words quivered as they barely slipped from her lips. "What are you trying to say?"Sophia's face displayed a profound, pained look, her eyes avoiding Kendall's stare. “I... I paid someone to take your place. To pretend to be you when Thane asked for the lady whose sperm he used.”Kendall's heart pounded rapidly, with each beat intensifying feelings of betrayal. But you just said you didn't have the courage to "What reason do you have for doing that?" She spoke in a barely audible voice, her emotions causing her voice to crack.Sophia paused to take a deep breath, nervously playing with the hem of her sleeve. I felt fear. Worried about the potential consequences if the truth was revealed. A feeling of panic swept over at that instant. I thought... I thought it would be easier this way.”The space appeared to shrink, the atmosphere growing heavier by t
Thane's steps echoed through the deserted parking lot, each footfall a sign of his unwavering chase. As he walked towards the hospital entrance, the gloomy skies reflected his somber mood.His thoughts were a storm of anger and worry, driven by the disturbing rumor he needed to confirm. He had briefly seen Kendall from afar, just a silhouette, which was enough to make him feel uneasy.He rushed through the hospital's clean hallways, his expression filled with resolute seriousness. The hospital was strangely silent, with the usual noise and activity dampened, as though the structure itself understood the importance of his task. As he reached Doctor Sophia’s office, he didn’t bother with formalities. He pushed the door open sharply and entered, his eyes narrowing as they locked onto the woman behind the desk.Doctor Sophia looked up from her paperwork, her expression shifting from surprise to a carefully managed calm. Her hands, resting on the desk, tightened slightly, betraying a moment
The lock clicked familiarly as Jason turned his key, the sound resonating in the vacant house. Entering the house, he was welcomed by a quietness in the dimly-lit interior that felt eerily unnatural. The quietness was noticeably different from the turmoil in his head, a whirlwind of thoughts spinning as he moved through the rooms.He shouted, his voice sounding tense and empty. “Kendall? Are you here?”The only response was the hollow echo of his voice. He walked around the living room, searching the areas he remembered she often visited, feeling his heart drop at each vacant spot. He checked the kitchen quickly, barely looking at the clean dishes, before heading upstairs.Jason paused outside Kendall's door at the top of the staircase. His fingers made contact with the wooden surface as he gently pushed it open, the sound of the hinges creaking cutting through the quietness. The room appeared exactly as he recalled - tidy, yet giving off an abandoned atmosphere. The bed was made, but
Jason woke up to the soft light coming in through the curtains, creating gentle shadows in the room. Looking at Kendall next to him, he glanced over and saw her resting peacefully with a relaxed expression on her face. Her being there soothed him unexpectedly, providing a peaceful reassurance that was both fresh and recognizable. He briefly observed her, feeling warmth in his chest, surprised by the sudden appearance of this feeling. Kendall awoke, her eyes opening slowly, and when she looked at him, a faint smile formed on her lips, showing how tired she still was. She whispered "Good morning," in a gentle and sleepy voice. "Jason responded, his smile soft, mirroring the warmth in his eyes, saying, 'Morning!'" “How are you feeling? Still tired?”Kendall paused to breathe, moving a piece of hair from her face. "She actually admitted she was doing better, stretching out her arms." “I think I just needed a good rest… and maybe some company,” she added with a light laugh, though her e
Jason’s laughter filled the cozy living room as he poured two glasses of champagne, his smile easy and unguarded. Kendall observed him, feeling a warmth envelop her as she noticed the uncommon, easygoing side of him. Their festive dinner was a modest yet sincere event, filled with soft dialogue, exchanged looks, and a tacit comprehension lingering in the atmosphere. "To fresh starts," Jason remarked, raising his glass in her direction. Kendall raised hers in reply, locking eyes with him, and they tapped their glasses together. "To new beginnings," she repeated, a gentle smile dancing on her lips. While they drank, Kendall started to sense a slight wave of tiredness washing over her, more intense than normal. She dismissed it, not wishing to spoil the moment. Jason inclined his body forward, his eyes fixed as he observed her expression. “Are you okay?” he inquired, his tone reflecting a hint of worry. “You seem… tired.”Kendall shook her head, smiling reassuringly. “I’m fine, just…
Jason’s office hummed with subdued anticipation, his team moving restlessly in the background, gazes glued to the phone as they waited for the official announcement. Jason was at his desk, attempting to look composed, yet his fingers drummed a constant beat on the edge, revealing his eagerness. Kendall faced him, her gaze supportive and kind as she observed him. A sharp ring cut through the room. Jason’s assistant, Jane picked up, a hint of excitement flashing in her eyes as she turned to him. “Mr. Carter, it’s the call.”He nodded, inhaling deeply to calm himself. Kendall offered him a supportive smile, silently saying, "You can do it." Jason felt a surge of comfort from her being there. He lifted the receiver, his voice calm, yet there was a hint of something else—a subtle assurance. “Hello, yes, speaking.”The conversation began with formalities, and Jason’s responses remained professional, yet Kendall noticed how his shoulders gradually relaxed, a subtle shift in his expression
When the long-awaited day finally came, the big hall was filled with happy chatter and the sound of youngsters laughing blended with soft background music. Bright balloons, animated streamers, and tables brimming with toys adorned the location. Kendall strolled next to Jason, her eyes absorbing the vibrant scene with a gentle, caring look.A little girl tugged on her dress, drawing her attention. She bent down, meeting the child’s curious eyes. “Hi there! What’s your name?”The girl blinked shyly, hiding her face for a moment. “Lily.”Kendall’s smile brightened as she offered her hand. “Well, Lily, I’m Kendall. “Could you please show me which toys are your favorites?” The girl's expression brightened as she agreed, grasping Kendall's hand and guiding her to a table filled with stuffed animals and vivid blocks. Jason observed the situation from a short distance, his face relaxing as he noticed Kendall laughing and conversing effortlessly with Lily. “You’re really good with kids,” Jas
The vibrant lights of the toy shop shimmered on the racks, creating a cozy illumination as Jason and Kendall entered. The atmosphere was infused with a mix of exhilaration and reminiscence, and Kendall's eyes sparkled as she surveyed her surroundings, beaming. Jason found himself captivated by her enthusiasm, even while reminding himself that their purpose was for the children, not for his increasing intrigue with her. “So,” he started, observing her gaze scanning the aisles in amazement, “where do we even begin?” Kendall gazed at him, determination shining in her eyes. "Okay, let's examine this." We need to pick things they’ll genuinely enjoy. Not just the fancy stuff, but toys they’ll have fun with.”Jason nodded, a small grin tugging at his lips. “Practical yet fun. Got it. "You seem like you have experience with this." She chuckled, tucking a piece of hair behind her ear. "I've gained some experience, whether you believe it or not." Furthermore, I desire for them to sense that
Following a lengthy day filled with meetings, Jason closed his laptop and rubbed his face with a hand while letting out a deep sigh. His phone vibrated on the table, drawing his focus. He grabbed it, noticing an email alert from “Mason & Blare Industries,” one of the top firms he had been chasing for several months. They’d sent him a formal invitation to a charity event—an opportunity he knew could solidify his company’s reputation. Yet, as he scanned the details, a line caught his eye. He needed to attend with his wife. Jason exhaled, drumming his fingers on his desk. Kendall didn’t enjoy being in the limelight. The last thing he wanted was to pressure her. The idea of going alone was appealing, but the collaboration relied on it, and he was aware they would anticipate both of them attending. When Jason got home, he discovered Kendall snuggled on the couch, a book held in her hands. She glanced up when he entered, her expression melting into a smile that, in a way, seemed as inviti
"Thane?" Dr. Sophia’s voice hardly exceeded a whisper as she observed his formidable figure, her astonishment transitioning into a slight trace of anxiety. She attempted to compose her expression, but the fear in her eyes was unmistakable. Thane's stare was icy and sharp as he moved ahead. "Surprised to see me, Dr. Sophia?" His tone had a sharpness capable of cutting through steel. Sophia's hands shook as she brought them together, trying to steady herself. "I… I wasn’t expecting you without an appointment.""I didn't believe I would require one," he answered sharply, crossing his arms over his chest. His gaze stayed fixed on her, observing, anticipating. "I thought you’d be eager to see me, considering how… closely involved you are in my personal matters."Sophia swallowed, the words hitting her with a bitter irony. "Thane, if you’re here to discuss a medical matter, we should… schedule a time, maybe arrange some privacy."Thane’s lips twisted into a sardonic smile. "Oh, I believe
A cold, stony silence settled between them as Thane processed her words, his face frozen in a mixture of disbelief and dawning comprehension. “Some other Kendall… or the Kendall I know?” he demanded, his tone sharp and biting. “Jason’s wife?”“Yes,” Felicia replied, her voice barely more than a whisper, though her eyes glinted with a fierce satisfaction. “Kendall Gomez… or rather, Kendall Carter.”The name hit Thane like a blast of cold wind, the implications tearing through him with merciless clarity. Jason’s wife, “Kendall”. His mind raced, replaying past encounters, scrutinizing each one in this new, blinding light. His expression darkened, jaw clenching as anger flared behind his eyes, fists tightening at his sides. It wasn’t possible… but the details Felicia offered, combined with the smug certainty on her face, made him realize it was exactly the truth he’d feared. A tidal wave of frustration surged within him, stinging his pride, mocking his oversight.He took a step forward, l
Felicia’s heart hammered as she sat restrained in the dimly lit room, her gaze locked on the cold, calculating man who stood before her. Thane’s expression was unreadable, though the intensity in his eyes spoke volumes. She knew better than to look away; he had an intimidating power about him, the kind that commanded attention and demanded absolute respect."So,” Thane began, his voice low, dangerous, “this game you’ve been playing, Kendall—or should I say Felicia?”Felicia swallowed, but forced herself to stay calm. She knew this moment was her only chance to make him see her as something more than a pawn. "I was never Kendall," she said carefully, her voice even, though her pulse raced beneath her skin. "My name is Felicia Gina."Thane arched an eyebrow, his expression shifting slightly. “Felicia Gina,” he repeated with a faint scoff, studying her with renewed interest. “And why should I believe anything you say? All I see is a woman who’s dug herself into a pit so deep, she’s scram