The ocean was bathed in a beautiful golden light as the sun had just started to rise. The sound of the waves lapping on the coast woke Kendall. The villa's tranquil setting brought her a sense of peace she hadn't felt in weeks. She looked over and noticed Jason standing on the terrace in a white shirt and casual shorts, staring at the horizon."Morning," Kendall whispered, her voice still groggy from sleep. Jason looked quickly, a friendly grin appearing on his face. “Good morning. Sleep well?” She nodded, sitting up and stretching. “Better than I expected. This place is... peaceful.” "Exactly," he replied, walking towards her and offering a cup of tea he had made beforehand. I thought maybe we could go for another stroll on the beach today. Fresh air, soft sand—good for you and the baby.” After pausing briefly, Kendall eventually gave a nod. “That sounds nice.” Jason beamed. “Perfect. Don't rush as you prepare yourself; I will be downstairs waiting for you. The beach lived
Thane sat in his car outside Jason's sprawling estate, the engine idling as he drummed his fingers on the steering wheel. His sharp gaze flicked toward the security guard approaching his window. “Good afternoon, sir. With his hands clasped behind his back, the guard asked politely, "How can I assist you?" Thane replied casually, lounging in his seat as if he were the one in charge, stating that he was there to see Jason. The guard examined his clipboard, his brows furrowed. Apologies, sir, but Mr. Carter is not present. He left yesterday for a trip with Mrs. Carter.” Thane’s smirk widened, masking the annoyance brewing within. “How convenient,” he murmured, loud enough for the guard to hear but ambiguous enough to avoid suspicion. “Would you like to leave a message?” the guard offered. “No need,” Thane replied smoothly. “I’ll catch him later.” He closed the window and backed out of the driveway, talking to himself as he left. “Running away again, Jason? Typical.” ---Back
The hum of activity on Carter Enterprises' executive floor seemed endless—phones ringing, muted conversations, and the rhythmic tapping of keyboards filling the air. Amidst the hustle, the cleaner pushed her cart, her pace unhurried but her mind racing. She avoided eye contact with the employees walking past her, their sharp suits and confident strides a stark contrast to her unassuming uniform. She approached Jason Carter’s office with a deep breath, her heartbeat quickening with every step. Jason Carter, the CEO of Carter Enterprises, wasn’t in the building today—a detail she had confirmed twice before even stepping foot in the company. His absence was her window of opportunity, but it was also a risk. Approaching the corner office with glass walls, Jane, Jason's assistant, grabbed her attention. Sitting at her desk, Jane's intense concentration, piercing glare, and frightening presence demonstrated her effectiveness. She had her brown hair tied up in a bun and her glasses highl
The cleaner moved briskly but deliberately through the glass doors of Carter Enterprises. She lowered her head, her face showing no emotion, and she moved at a relaxed pace. Despite the pounding in her ears, her demeanor remained calm as she approached the day as she would any other at work. The busy foyer buzzed with its typical activity, with employees hurrying past and whispered chats filling the room. She received no second looks, just as she desired. Her grip on the cart's handle grew stronger as she neared the elevators. She pressed the button and waited, glancing around casually. As she walked by, a security guard nodded at her, so she responded with a friendly smile. The elevator doors opened quietly with a soft sound, and she entered, finally catching her breath as they shut behind her. As soon as the doors closed, she rested against the wall, briefly losing her composure. The cold steel of the elevator mirrored her conflicted reflection. Her mind was flooded with a millio
The villa was peaceful, except for the steady sound of waves crashing far away. Jason had placed a small dining table on the patio, where a gentle, golden light was shining and creating moving shadows on the stone floor. Kendall stopped at the entrance, her eyes locked on the view in front of her. On the table, there was a bottle of chilled sparkling cider in an ice bucket and a neatly arranged bouquet of white lilies, her preferred flowers. Jason stood next to the table, fixing a candle that was beginning to tilt dangerously. At the sound of her steps, he looked back, his face glowing with a small, contented smile. "You've arrived at the perfect moment," he stated as he pulled a chair out for her. "Jason, what is that?" Kendall asked, her voice tinged with surprise as she approached. “Dinner,” he replied simply, his tone casual but his eyes warm. “I thought we could use a quiet evening.” Her gaze softened. "You didn't need to go to such lengths." "It wasn't a problem," Jason r
The warm golden glow of early sunlight flowed in through the drapes, brightening the room. When Jason opened his eyes, he noticed Kendall curled up on her side. He grinned as he observed her briefly before getting out of bed. He moved quietly, determined to let her sleep a little longer. But as he walked past her to grab a towel, her faint groan stopped him. He turned back, noticing the way her hand clutched at her abdomen, her face drawn in pain even in sleep. “Kendall?” he asked softly, moving closer. Slowly, her eyes fluttered open, briefly looking confused before she managed a small smile. "Morning," she whispered quietly, her voice rough. Jason knelt next to the bed, examining her expression. “Are you okay? You look pale.” She waved a dismissive hand, though her movements were sluggish. “I’m fine. Just… pregnancy stuff. Nothing to worry about.” He frowned. “You sure? You seem—” “Jason,” she cut him off gently, pushing herself up to sit. “I said I’m fine. Don’t start
Jason shifted, sensing the chill void on the opposite side of the bed. Instinctively, he extended his arm and his fingers made contact with Kendall's shoulder. Her body felt unnaturally warm. He immediately opened his eyes and his heart raced as he looked in her direction. Kendall was curled up, her face red and covered in sweat. She took quick breaths and shook under the blanket. “Kendall?” He leaned over her, his voice filled with tension. She moved and her eyelids opened slightly, fluttering. In a soft whisper, she spoke with a hoarse voice that was barely audible, saying, "Jason." "You have a fever," he commented, reaching for her forehead. The fear chilling his spine was caused by the heat emanating from her skin. She muttered, trying to push his hand away, saying "It's... it's nothing." "I will be okay." Jason ignored her protest, sitting up and reaching for his phone on the nightstand. “I’m calling a doctor.” “No!” Kendall quickly reached out and grabbed his wrist firml
When morning came, Jason was still there. His body was rigid from remaining in the same position all night, barely shifting. Seeing Kendall wake up and her complexion improving slightly helped relieve the tension in his muscles. “Good morning,” he said quietly, his voice tinged with relief. Kendall blinked up at him, her lips curving into a faint smile. “You stayed.” "Definitely," he stated while removing a loose strand of hair from her face. "What is your emotional state?”“Better,” she said softly, though her voice lacked its usual energy. Jason nodded, his worry not entirely abated but tempered by her slight improvement. “I ran a bath for you,” he said. “Thought it might help you feel refreshed.” Kendall's demeanor became more gentle, clearly showing her appreciation. "There was no need for you to do that." “I wanted to,” Jason said simply. “Come on. Let me help you.” Kendall let him help her, leaning on him while they walked to the bathroom. Even though she had objecte
When he finally opened his door, the heaviness on his chest had transformed into a chilly and unyielding sensation. He threw his tie on the closest chair and collapsed onto the edge of his bed, covering his face with his hands. Memories, arguments, and doubts flooded his mind, each one more overwhelming than the previous. Why is this difficult? Eventually, he was overcome by fatigue. Jason rested against the pillows, his arm casually placed over his face while his breath became calm. The subtle fragrance of her perfume stayed in his thoughts, a poignant indication of what he couldn't understand. In the morning, Jason was rudely awakened by his blaring alarm. He rubbed his eyes, moving slowly and out of sync. The heaviness of the previous night still remained, if anything, it had increased. He hurriedly took a shower, but the chilly water didn't help clear his foggy thoughts. While Jason stood before the mirror fixing his cufflinks, his face showed no emotion, but his reflection re
Jason remained seated in his study, clutching the armrests of his chair tightly, as though desperately grasping his last bit of self-control. A combination of betrayal, confusion, and rage swirled within him as his heart thumped in his chest. "What led to this occurrence?" Thane’s smug voice echoed relentlessly in his mind. “It’s not your child but mine. Did you ever wonder why she hid so much of her past?” The weight of those words settled over him like a suffocating fog. He had trusted Kendall, despite the hurried nature of their marriage. Had that been his mistake? Jason’s jaw tightened as doubt crept in. “But why? What motive does she have to deceive me in such a way?" He looked over at the intercom that was sitting on his desk. With a cold and commanding voice, he pushed the button. “Ensure Mrs. Carter remains in her room. Bring her meals there. No one enters this house without my approval—especially Thane.” "Of course, Mr. Carter," the staff replied quickly, maintaining a s
The living room was filled with a gentle evening warmth, Kendall's light laughter mixing with the soft hum of the central air conditioning. Jason relaxed on the sofa, with one arm casually resting on the backrest and a slight smile appearing on his lips. Jason playfully teased, expressing disbelief that she managed to purchase six pairs of shoes in just one afternoon, as he gestured towards the collection of shopping bags at their feet. “Are you planning to open a store or something?” Kendall rolled her eyes but couldn’t suppress her grin. “I’ll have you know, Mr. Carter, that all six are essential.” She held up her hand before he could interrupt. “Yes, even the sparkly ones. Don’t judge.” Jason chuckled. “Fine. But don’t blame me when I have to build another closet to fit your essentials.” “You? "Construct a wardrobe?" she joked, raising an eyebrow. "I'll trust it once it's in front of me." Their playful conversation filled the room smoothly, a feeling of friendship borderin
The car journey was peaceful, yet not uncomfortable. Jason reclined, casually swiping on his phone as Kendall stared out the window. She slightly angled her head, and her mouth slightly opened in a gentle gasp. "Jason, check this out!" she whispered, her voice filled with unusual enthusiasm. Jason immediately looked up and followed her gaze. A grand fountain came into view, its sparkling water catching the sunlight in mesmerizing arcs. The flowing water appeared to be dancing, while the peaceful garden enhanced the overall charm. "Isn't it lovely?" Kendall remarked, her voice filled with nostalgia. Jason didn’t reply right away, captivated by the look on her face. It wasn’t often he saw her so visibly delighted by something. He tapped the driver’s shoulder. “Stop the car.” The driver pulled over smoothly, and Jason stepped out, walking briskly around to Kendall’s side. He opened the door and reached out his hand. "Surprised, she asked, 'What are you up to?'" "Bringing you to v
The sales assistants and the driver helped load everything into the car. Jason held the door for Kendall as they exited the store from the boutique. Just as she started walking, Jason's stomach let out a loud growl. Kendall suddenly halted in her steps, turning her head quickly towards him as she chuckled. "Was that... you?" she questioned, disbelief evident in her tone. Jason shyly rubbed the back of his neck, causing his ears to blush slightly. "What else can I say? Shopping takes energy,” he replied, giving her a small grin. Kendall shook her head, still chuckling. “Jason Carter, starving after one hour in a boutique. Who would’ve thought?” "Hey, I never mentioned being famished," he joked, although his stomach rumbled again, proving otherwise. "Maybe I am, alright." “Let’s find a place to eat before this turns into a medical emergency.” Kendall smirked, linking her arm with his. “You’re impossible. Fine, breakfast it is.” Jason noticed a charming café nestled in a corn
As Jason led Kendall toward the car, the bright morning sun filled the lobby, with her hand securely in his. She moved at a leisurely pace, with slightly uncertain steps, yet her smile exuded warmth. Jason sneakily looked at her every few seconds, his spare hand poised to support her if she fell. "Jason," Kendall said with a hint of playfulness in her voice, "I believe I can walk by myself." Jason arched a brow. “Oh, is that so? Because yesterday, you could barely stand without wobbling.” “That was yesterday,” she countered, tilting her head at him. "And I'm still complaining today," Jason responded with a smirk. He held the car door open for her and assisted her as she got in before getting in himself. While the driver placed the bags in the trunk, Kendall smiled and shook her head, with amusement shining in her eyes. Are you aware that you are doing too much? I’m fine, really.” Jason reclined in his chair, securing his seatbelt. "I prefer to go overboard than to wish I had
Jason carefully opened the door, trying to make as little noise as possible, and immediately looked at Kendall. She was nestled on her side, breathing evenly, with a calm expression on her face. The warm glow in the room was created by the setting sun filtering through the half-drawn curtains in shades of gold. Jason paused briefly, observing her, feeling his heart grow with an unnamed emotion. "He thought she appeared very calm," his lips formed a slight smile. “After everything today, she deserves this rest.” Still, the persistent concern eating away at the recesses of his thoughts remained relentless. Jason glanced around the room. The partially filled suitcase by the closet grabbed his attention, quietly reminding him of their impending journey. He sighed while pulling up his sleeves. "Okay, time to finish this," he quietly said, moving closer to the task. While grabbing one of Kendall's carefully folded shirts, he noticed the lingering fragrance of her beloved lavender perfume
Jason watched as Kendall ate the rest of her lunch with little enthusiasm while sitting by her bedside. The chef had excelled with the spread, but Kendall hardly ate any of it. Jason refrained from commenting, as he didn't want to push too much, but her diminished appetite worried him. She appeared improved from the previous night, yet he couldn't overlook the fragility in her. Her typically lively skin tone appeared pale, and although her eyes stayed friendly, they held a hint of darkness, as if she was concealing something. His phone vibrated on the bedside table, breaking the silence. He glanced at Kendall. “I’ll just take this. Be right back,” he murmured, brushing her hand gently before stepping into the hallway. While he departed, Kendall absentmindedly traced patterns on the blanket with her fingers. After the door closed with a click, she released a quiet breath, a hint of unease appearing on her face. She felt another jolt in her stomach. She shifted, adjusting her positio
When morning came, Jason was still there. His body was rigid from remaining in the same position all night, barely shifting. Seeing Kendall wake up and her complexion improving slightly helped relieve the tension in his muscles. “Good morning,” he said quietly, his voice tinged with relief. Kendall blinked up at him, her lips curving into a faint smile. “You stayed.” "Definitely," he stated while removing a loose strand of hair from her face. "What is your emotional state?”“Better,” she said softly, though her voice lacked its usual energy. Jason nodded, his worry not entirely abated but tempered by her slight improvement. “I ran a bath for you,” he said. “Thought it might help you feel refreshed.” Kendall's demeanor became more gentle, clearly showing her appreciation. "There was no need for you to do that." “I wanted to,” Jason said simply. “Come on. Let me help you.” Kendall let him help her, leaning on him while they walked to the bathroom. Even though she had objecte