Isabel’s POVI stride down the stairs, the sharp click of my heels echoing through the quiet house. The morning light streams through the wide windows, casting long shadows across the marble floors. Aurora has already left with the kids for school, and now it’s my turn to head to the office.As I reach the final step, I notice my mother standing near the foyer, her back turned to me. There’s a stiffness in her posture, her shoulders tensed as she grips her phone tightly to her ear. Her voice is hushed but urgent, words spilling out in quick, clipped sentences.I slow my steps, watching her carefully. Something is wrong.She doesn’t notice me at first, too caught up in whatever conversation she’s having. Her fingers press against her temple as she listens, then she exhales sharply, like the weight of whatever she just heard is pressing down on her.Then, the call ends.She turns, her face set in deep lines of worry. And then, her eyes meet mine.“Claire, there’s a problem,” she says.A
Isabel’s POV“Change that dress, you look awful in it.” Alexander said in a commanding tone.The dress, a red revealing short gown, which hugged my curves, featuring a daring plunging neckline.Glancing through myself and looking back at the mirror, I asked, “what’s wrong with my dress, not like it’s the first time am wearing it.”“I don’t have to give you any explanation or talk further on this, just change it like I said!” He retorted.His tone is cold, but still handsome as ever.He stood at an imposing 6’3”, his height adding to his commanding presence.Alexander used to love me. I want to believe so.He used to be a loving and doting husband. Even though there’s a side of him that I’m yet to understand. He’s sometimes aggressive, tends to be controlling and commanding.I’ve tried to talk to him, but it always ends in arguments, never accepting the fact that he has an issue.It has just been messy.My once loving husband has turned to a stranger.I couldn't even break the news of
Alexander’s POVI sit in my office, my gaze fixed through the large, floor-to-ceiling windows, beyond which the cityscape stretched out in a mosaic of bustling life.It gnawed on me, a memory of my upbringing which I think is affecting my relationship with Isabel.While growing up, I had always seen my mum, Sabrina, command my father, Williams, to do anything she wanted, because she was making more money than him. And I had thought that’s the norm.Having more money than your partner in marriage means you call the shot. You’re in control of whatever goes on or happens in your home. Why would Isabel think I love her less simply because I commented on her dress? I worked hard proving to my mother that I’m capable of running the company, making lots of money, so I won’t have to be like my dad when married.Gosh! I pace my office, running my hands through my hair. I hate it when Isabel gives me those looks, with her shimmering silver gray eyes, which send down a cold shiver down my
Isabel’s POVmy eyes opened to the soft glow of morning light filtering through the room curtains.The unfamiliar ceiling of the room came into focus.Where am I? I asked myself, feeling a slight ache.I groaned softly, pressing a hand on my temple as I tried to piece together the fragments of last night. I furrowed my eyebrows, trying to remember how I got here.What happened? I thought to myself, anxiety bubbling as I pushed myself to sit up.I scanned the room, searching for any clues that might jog my memory, but everything looked untouched, pristine, almost sterile.The mirror across the room caught my eye.Slowly, I stood, wrapping a sheet around me as I walked over.My reflection looking back at me- disheveled hair, makeup smudged.My eyes wide with confusion and fear.I noticed a faint bruise on my shoulder, but there’s no pain, just the unsettling sense of not knowing how it got there.I take a deep breath, trying to steady myself.I need to figure this out, to make sense
Isabel’s POVWalking through the hallway of the King’s Mansion, I feel sad.The hallway Furnished with High ceilings adorned with intricate moldings that creates an aura of spaciousness. The polished marble floors gleam under the soft glow of crystal chandeliers. One can feel the air filled with a subtle scent of fresh flowers.But I sense tension as I walk through the hallway.Why is everywhere so quiet?I thought to myself.Two steps into the big and exotic living room, I was shocked to see Alexander sitting in one of antique furniture pieces near the window.His gaze feels so cold.I can tell he’s mad. Ranging with anger, but trying to keep his cool.“You’re finally home.” He says, giving an icy demeanor.I hesitated.Unable to say anything for a moment. Puzzled and surprised as it’s been a while since Alexander was home by this time of the day.He’s either already at the office, or he traveled for a business trip from work. While I only got to know about it from his assistant,
Alexander’s POVAs the alcohol wore off, reality seeped in.I find myself staring at the ceiling, the weight of my actions settling heavily on my chest.What have I done? I say, covering my face with my hands.My heart is beating inside my chest.Last night was I and Isabel’s anniversary, and instead of spending the night with her, I’m here with her best friend!My eyes widened.Not when I have decided to let go of our marriage. There is no point in celebrating an anniversary. I thought to myself, trying to escape the weight of what feels so heavy to accept.But I shouldn’t have done this.I turned to look at Cynthia, now sleeping beside me, and I felt a pang of regret.Did I really do this?My thoughts were interrupted when Cynthia rolled, placing her hand round my body.I immediately swung it off, feeling irritated by her touch.“What’s it Alexander?” She says, her voice shaky.“You can’t seriously treat me this way, after what happened between us last night.” She ventured out, a f
Isabel’s POVI look at Alexander, my cold eyes piercing through his.His demeanor is icy like it always has been. Looking unsettled.I wonder what could be going through his mind. Who am I trying to deceive? He’s definitely thinking of his night with Cynthia.The thought of what could have gone down between them came crossing my mind.I tightened my jaw.I’ll never forgive them both.He wants a divorce? He gets it. I’m done been the good and understanding wife of an unfaithful bastard.I signed the divorce papers without hesitation, storming into the room to get my stuff and leave the hell outta here.Did Alexander think I’m going to beg for him to not end this marriage? I can't even stand being in the same room with him.He disgust me!Not after what I saw the other night at the hotel.I used to think Alexander loved me, I used to think our marriage could be saved. Tears well up my eyes.To think that I almost told him about my pregnancy, thinking it could bring us back together. I
Isabel’s POVI booked a bolt to Canyonville to see my parents.The drive to canyonville always felt like a journey back in time, each mile taking me closer to the life I’d left behind.As we drive into the familiar gravel road leading to my parents’ house, I can’t help but feel the weight of everything that has happened.My divorce from Alexander was still fresh, the pain sharp and unrelenting, like a wound that refused to heal.I thought to myself, how am I going to face my parents? They had put so much effort into making my life better, they made sure I lacked nothing, even though we weren’t rich.They hustled day and night, to see that I never lacked, and made sure I attended one of the best high schools in LA. I made them proud by getting a scholarship to continue my university education.I had dreamed of a future filled with love and happiness. I had always wished to make lots of money to assist my parents also, but here I am with nothing to show for it.“We have arrived Ma’am,”
Isabel’s POVI stride down the stairs, the sharp click of my heels echoing through the quiet house. The morning light streams through the wide windows, casting long shadows across the marble floors. Aurora has already left with the kids for school, and now it’s my turn to head to the office.As I reach the final step, I notice my mother standing near the foyer, her back turned to me. There’s a stiffness in her posture, her shoulders tensed as she grips her phone tightly to her ear. Her voice is hushed but urgent, words spilling out in quick, clipped sentences.I slow my steps, watching her carefully. Something is wrong.She doesn’t notice me at first, too caught up in whatever conversation she’s having. Her fingers press against her temple as she listens, then she exhales sharply, like the weight of whatever she just heard is pressing down on her.Then, the call ends.She turns, her face set in deep lines of worry. And then, her eyes meet mine.“Claire, there’s a problem,” she says.A
Alexander’s POVI sit in the dimly lit lounge of my family’s hotel, the only place that has ever felt like a sanctuary. The air is thick with the scent of aged whiskey and polished wood, and the low hum of jazz plays in the background. Here, I can breathe—at least, I used to.I gulp down my drink, the burn trailing down my throat before I drop the glass onto the table with a loud thud. It echoes in the silence, but nothing drowns out the memories flooding my mind. Isabel’s face. The way she ignored my presence, focusing on Carl like I wasn’t even there. The way she smiled when she admitted to trying to sabotage the condo project by requesting the material cancellation.I don’t even know her anymore.They say people change when they have money, but maybe it’s not just that. Maybe she found something better—something worth throwing everything we once had away.I take another long gulp, but it does nothing to dull the ache in my chest. It’s ridiculous, really. Like some adolescent boy nu
Alexander’s POVThe sight in front of me stirs something deep and unwelcome.Carl. Isabel. Together.Not just discussing business, but enjoying each other’s company, the kind of ease that speaks of familiarity, of something beyond mere negotiations. I freeze at the threshold, my mind stumbling for a second—before reality snaps back with a sharp, bitter edge.So, it’s true.I scoff, sliding my hands into my pockets, masking the tightness in my chest. “Didn’t realize your office had turned into a home for strays.” My voice is calm, laced with indifference, but the words are aimed directly at Carl. A reminder that no matter what he’s doing here, no matter how much he tries to insert himself into Isabel’s world, he’ll never be me.Carl smirks as he rises to his feet, unbothered. “That’s the thing about business, Alexander.” His voice is smooth, measured, with that infuriating edge of self-assurance. “The best opportunities tend to find their way home.”I catch the meaning behind his words
Isabel’s POVAlexander strides in, frustration carved into his features. Christine rushes in after him, trying to stop him, her expression tight with unease. “Sir, I told you—“But he’s already inside, his stormy gaze flicking between Carl and me. I relax my shoulders, turning toward him with quiet amusement. He looks ready to burst at any moment, and it’s almost entertaining. I catch Christine’s gaze and give her a curt nod. It’s fine.Alexander scoffs, slipping his hands into his pockets. “Didn’t realize your office had turned into a home for strays.” His voice is laced with something sharp, something simmering just beneath the surface.Carl smirks, rising from his seat. “That’s the thing about business, Alexander. The best opportunities tend to find their way home.” His tone is light, but there’s no mistaking the underlying edge.I sense the flicker of unease in Alexander, and I savor it. I stand, crossing my arms over my chest. “Didn’t expect to see you here,” I say smoothly. “B
Isabel’s POVIt’s been days since the shoot, and today’s meeting with the committee in charge of our fashion line’s new collection launch has finally wrapped up. I slip into the backseat of the car, exhaling softly as I lean into the leather seat. Travis pulls away from the building, the tinted windows reflecting the city’s skyline as we head toward LM Group’s headquarters. Moments later, the car rolls to a stop at the entrance, and I step out, smoothing the crease on my dress. Christine follows closely behind, her heels clicking against the pavement. As we make our way through the glass doors, the cool air inside brushes against my skin. The marble-floored lobby stretches ahead, modern chandeliers casting a warm glow. My steps are steady as I head toward the elevator, but Christine closes the gap between us and leans in, her voice a whisper.“Ma’am, Sir Carl Edwards is in the waiting room.”I pause mid-step, his name ringing through my mind. A slow, knowing smile tugs at my lips. So
Isabel’s POVI take a deep breath, my shoulders rising high as I glance at Aurora. It’s a subtle signal—I had no idea this was coming. She reads the unspoken message in my eyes, but her face stays unreadable.Turning to face Richard, I manage to say, “Wow, I didn’t know you model.”His face softens, a faint smirk tugging at the corner of his lips. He glances at Aurora, but she doesn’t flinch, her expression neutral.“Oh, it’s just a side gig. Something to mix things up now and then.” he says, his voice casual yet confident, as if he’s used to keeping things light.I feel my shoulders drop, my arms folding instinctively across my chest. “Right. I see.” My voice is even, but inside, the awkwardness churns. How do I navigate through this?The silence stretches, thick with unspoken tension. Richard clears his throat, breaking the stillness. “So, can we begin?” His gaze darts around until it locks briefly with Roy’s. Richard chuckles softly, a smile playing on his lips, before looking away
Isabel’s POVLooking at Nadia, I can tell she’s deeply worried about something. Her grip on the clipboard is tight, her expression pinched with stress.“I’ll be right back,” I say, excusing myself from Roy and Aurora. Nadia follows me as I step aside, already bracing myself for whatever bad news she’s about to deliver.When we reach the corner, I turn to face her. “What’s wrong?”She exhales, shifting uncomfortably. “The main models for the shoot—both of them—aren’t coming. Last-minute emergency.”My stomach drops. “Both?”She nods grimly. “The female lead model canceled first, and then her male counterpart followed. I reached out to the agency, but they don’t have replacements available today.”I pinch the bridge of my nose, swallowing the frustration rising in my throat. The main models were supposed to be the face of this collection—the ones leading the campaign. Without them, the entire vision we planned is compromised.“And you’re just telling me this now?” I ask, keeping my voic
Isabel’s POVMy heels click sharply against the polished tiles as I stride into the shooting scene, commanding attention without a word. Aurora trails behind, her steps lighter but equally poised. Heads turn as we pass, and the air shifts, a ripple of greetings and smiles flowing through the crew.“Good morning, ma’am.”“Welcome, Ms. Montgomery.”They nod and smile, but something feels… off. There’s a tension, a subtle hum of unease in the air. Murmurs ripple like a secret thread weaving through the room. I catch fleeting glances, the way their eyes dart back to their phones, then quickly flick up to meet mine before they school their features into polite expressions.I stop, crossing my arms, my gaze narrowing as I glance at Aurora. She shrugs nonchalantly, feigning ignorance. “Don’t look at me,” her expression says.Flipping my hair to the side, I turn back to the crew. “Is there something I need to know?” My voice cuts through the air, calm but commanding.They fidget, exchanging u
Isabel’s POVThe moment I open my eyes, the weight of yesterday crashes down on me. The school event was supposed to be a celebration, but instead, it became a battlefield, thanks to Sophia and Scarlett. My head pounds as the scene replays in my mind: Sophia shoving Scarlett, Scarlett retaliating, and Alexander stepping in to demand Scarlett apologize. A scoff escapes my lips, bitterness tightening my chest. Seriously? Even when Sophia started it, he still sided with her? Is that the kind of father he is? Is that how he raises his child—to believe she can do no wrong?My eyes widen at the thought, and my pulse quickens. Glad he’s nowhere near my children. If he were, they’d grow up demanding, controlling, and belittling others just like him, thinking the world revolves around them because they’re dripping in wealth. I push my hair back, exhaling a breath I hadn’t realized I was holding. The tension in my shoulders barely eases as Roy’s voice from last night surfaces in my thoughts.