Alexander’s POVThe man in a fitted charcoal grey blazer over a crisp white shirt and dark jeans. His demeanor calm and composed, turns to the boy beside her and asked, “And what flavor would you like, champ? Today’s your treat, and after this, we’ll get your toy and have some more fun.”They had to be twins—though not identical, but with a striking resemblance. Such a big family, I thought. The man could pass for their Dad, even though there isn’t any resemblance with him.I couldn’t shake the feeling that I had seen him before. There’s something familiar about his face, but I can’t quite place it. I keep staring, trying to connect the dots, but my mind is a drawing blanks. I’ve met a lot of people in my life, especially in business, so maybe I’m just confusing him with someone else. If we’ve met before, it must have been at one of those corporate events. Now we find a seat, directly across from them. Sophia is sitting next to me with her Vanilla ice cream, but my eyes keep drifting
Isabel’s POV“Hello, Mom,” I greet softly, slipping away from the noise, searching for a quiet corner. “Claire! My dear, I’m so excited.” My mom’s voice comes through, her excitement readable like you could feel it really close. “Your father and I will be back soon for the official ceremony—our flight is booked for tomorrow! I can’t wait to see you free to handle your dad’s business openly, as you deserve.”“I can’t wait either!” A soft smile plays on my lips. “But right now, I’m at the mall with the kids. Can we chat more when I get home?”“Oh, of course! Give Scarlett and Sterling a kiss for me. And tell, Aurora, that crazy daughter of mine to get ready for my coming,” my mother replied, her tone still bright. “Take care of yourself, darling. We’ll talk soon.”I sigh deeply, letting out a slow breath I didn't know I was holding. I walked slowly, closer to the bustling mall— the mall is buzzing with life, every corner filled with people busy shopping, chatting and taking pictures.
Alexander’s POVI watch as Sophia takes steps forward, her expression shifting to one of mock innocence. But before Sophia could take another step closer, the little boy—supposedly her twin—moves forward, placing himself firmly between his sister and Sophia, his small frame stiff with a protective resolve far beyond his years. His blue eyes narrow as he looks up, his face mirroring a determination that catches me off guard.Those eyes—something about them struck me as familiar, a nagging déjà vu that I couldn’t quite place. It’s almost like staring into a mirror— an echo of something I can’t quite place, but that lingers, unsettling.I rush over, stepping between the kids. “Sophia, what’s going on here?” I ask, trying to keep my voice steady even though frustration simmers just below the surface.Sophia’s face shifts to a look of wide-eyed innocence, her lips quivering as she shrugs her shoulders. “Daddy, I didn't do anything! She’s lying! I didn’t touch her doll!”Her words hang in t
Isabel’s POVI step out of the ice cream parlor, idly staring at the hall that seems to fade away, my thoughts drifting far beyond the noise I hear. I flip my phone in my hand, hoping to see Roy’s name flash across the screen. It’s been quite a while since I called, but still no response. I take a deep breath, glancing at the entrance of the mall, as if waiting— waiting for a miracle.“No I can’t keep waiting,” I say to myself. It’s a big mall I know, but since I can’t get through to Roy, then I’ll have to look around, definitely they should be somewhere, probably just having fun. I shrugged, letting my thoughts sink in. Just as I make my way through the mall, checking the possibilities of where they might be, I’m stunned aback by the figure in my eyes. The figure, a replica of someone I know. I can definitely tell it’s her. Cynthia. Wow! Speaking of the devil. She’s here. For a moment, I froze. Not knowing what to feel or how to react. Just as the daze was gone, I felt a wave o
Alexander’s POVI watch as Cynthia strides toward us, her heels clicking against the polished floor, her face lit with anticipation—until she sees us alone. Relief settles in my chest; I’m glad the man with his twins left before she could get near them. No scene today, at least.As she approaches, I see her expression change, her smile dimming. Her eyes land on Sophia, whose small frame shakes as she sobs quietly.Without hesitation, Cynthia kneels beside her, wrapping her in a tight embrace, her voice pitching with concern. “What happened, baby? Why are you crying? Who made you cry?”A few feet away, I lean against the wall, arms crossed, watching the scene unfold. Her questions hang unanswered in the air, underscored by Sophia’s quiet hiccups. When Cynthia turns to me, her eyes flash with accusation.“Alexander, are you just going to stand there and watch our daughter cry? Why is she crying?”I hold her gaze, my expression calm, masking the frustration building inside. “Teach her so
Alexander’s POVThe tension in the room is suffocating, as though the very air has thickened with the weight of everything resting on my shoulders. My mother’s stare is like fire, burning holes through me as I scramble for something—anything—to say. But the words don’t come. My mouth is dry, and my mind races, but nothing coherent forms. Cynthia stands off to the side, watching with that same cold expression she always wears when things start falling apart. I clenched my fist at her look, and for a split second, I wonder if she’s enjoying this—seeing me under the scrutiny of my mother, my power and control slipping through my fingers like sand. She thrives in chaos, always has. But this… this is something else entirely.“Alexander!” My mother snaps, her voice pulling me back to the moment. “Are you going to stand there and gawk like a child? Or are you going to explain what the hell is happening with the investors?”I grit my teeth. This wasn’t the way I wanted to handle things. I
Anonymous’ POVI sit back on the chair, crossing my legs with a casual elegance, my fingers drumming lightly on the armrest as I let out a low whistle. A faint smile plays on my lips as the two men drag the trembling figure in, forcing him down onto his knees in front of me, his head bowed in shame—or is it fear?Leaning forward, I reach out, gripping his chin and lifting it just enough to meet his gaze. His face is already bruised, smeared with blood, and his eyes, wide and desperate, lock onto mine. There’s a flicker of something in his eyes—terror, submission, and just the faintest glimmer of regret.“So, you planned to meet up with him…” I pause, drawing out the tension, savoring every agonizing second, “Alex… Alexander King. Huh?”He flinches, his head shaking frantically, his face a mask of terror. My mouth twitches, an amused scoff slipping through my lips before my hand swings in a sharp slap across his cheek. He crumples sideways from the blow, but the two men are quick, yank
Isabel’s POVI woke up with a groan, my head spinning from last night’s chaos. But the comforting smell of something familiar, something warm and inviting lingers in the air. My eyes fluttered open, and I inhaled deeply, recognizing the scent almost immediately—mom’s cooking. That unmistakable blend of spices and flavors. My favorite. A smile creeps across my face as I kick off the covers and follow the delicious aroma down the stairs.I reached the dining room, and there it was—my favorite dish, front and center, surrounded by an array of other assorted meals. The whole table looked like a feast, and the cooks bustled around, placing finishing touches here and there. My stomach growled in approval. “Well, look who’s up!” Mom’s voice cuts through, and I turn to see her standing by the table with another dish in her hands. Her smile is warm, and her eyes twinkle like they always do when she’s in her element. Sometimes I wonder how a billionaire’s wife still cooks for her family, eve
Isabel’s POVI let her words hang in the air, savoring the weight of her audacity. Slowly, I take a step closer, the corner of my mouth curling into the faintest hint of a smile. Her confidence wavers—just a flicker, but enough for me to notice.“Cynthia,” I say evenly, my tone as smooth as silk. “What a surprise.”Her face remains composed, but her posture stiffens. “I thought I’d come and celebrate your success,” she says, her voice laced with mock sincerity. “It’s quite the achievement.”I tilt my head, studying her. “I appreciate the gesture,” I reply, letting my voice dip slightly, enough to make her uneasy. “But if I wanted your congratulations, I would have asked for it.”Her smile falters, her lips twitching as though searching for the right response. I don’t give her the chance.“Especially not from someone who almost ruined this project,” I continue, my voice dropping lower, sharper.Cynthia’s eyes widen, and for a moment, the mask slips. The confidence she wore like armor c
Isabel’s POVCynthia strides into the room with calculated grace, her entrance commanding attention as if the entire event were curated solely for her. Her eyes lock with mine, and for a moment, the air between us feels heavy, laden with unspoken tension. Her lips curve into a faint smile, but it’s not one of warmth—no, it’s deliberate, sharp, meant to cut. Then, as though dismissing me entirely, she glides toward Alexander. With a practiced elegance, she loops her hand around his arm, her fingers curling possessively, her head tilting just slightly as she flashes a radiant smile for anyone who might be watching.I laugh softly under my breath, swirling my drink as I watch him. The tension in his shoulders, the clench of his jaw—it’s all too familiar, a silent plea to escape her grasp. There was a time when I might’ve pitied him. Now? I savor the sight, every ounce of his discomfort a vindication I didn’t know I needed.”Just then, My mother leans in close, her voice low but pointed.
Alexander’s POVThe condo is finally complete, and here we are—my mother and I—seated in the expansive lounge of the building that now symbolizes one of our company’s greatest achievements. The room hums with energy as executives begin to file in, their excitement palpable. Today is the launch, and it feels monumental.One of our senior executives approaches me, his stride confident and composed. “Congratulations, Alex, for pulling this off,” he says, extending his hand. His grip is firm, his eyes steady, radiating assurance as he holds my gaze for a moment before turning to exchange pleasantries with my mother. The interaction is brief, but his confidence feels like a nod of approval, a reminder that this project has made an impact.As more executives take their seats, the room begins to buzz with conversation. The flashes of cameras go off at every angle, capturing this significant moment. I settle into my seat, only for my gaze to lock with Roy’s across the room. His expression is
Isabel’s POVThe day hums with energy as we pull up to the luxurious condo. The internet has been in a frenzy these past few days, with every teaser and announcement stirring excitement for today’s unveiling. Promotional clips of the condo’s sleek interiors and panoramic views have been everywhere—trending across social media, featured in business news segments, even flashing across the billboards we passed on the way here.Stepping down from the limo, I take a breath, smoothing the fit of my dress—a sleek, off-white gown with delicate embroidery, elegant but understated, just right for the occasion. Beside me, my mother exudes her usual grace in one of LM’s signature power suits, the bold navy fabric tailored perfectly to emphasize her commanding presence.Roy is already waiting with his team, a brief smile exchanged between us as our eyes meet. The clicking of cameras surrounds us, a constant hum of the AD media at work. To the side, a live broadcast is in full swing, one of the rep
Isabel’s POVThe hospital air feels stale, but my senses sharpen the moment Cynthia, Roy and Susan step into the room. My gaze briefly locks with Cynthia’s before she turns her attention to Alexander. He sits stiffly on the hospital bed, his expression tight, like he’s been cornered.Cynthia’s scoff slices through the tension as she says, “I didn’t know your allergy could be cured by making a woman rest on your chest.”The absurdity of her words almost makes me chuckle, and despite myself, a small laugh escapes. It’s faint, but loud enough to draw attention. I clear my throat quickly, masking the amusement, and move closer to Roy, who stands stiffly beside me. He looks like he’s unsure whether to stay or speak.Alexander’s jaw tightens visibly, and he turns his gaze away, irritation etched into every muscle of his face. I wonder to myself, Oh, Cynthia, you’re starting to lose your hold on him, aren’t you? How much longer before he begins to despise you?My thoughts swirl with satisfac
Alexander’s POVThe hospital room is colder than I expected. The soft hum of the AC does little to soothe the ache in my head or the dull itching on my arm. I’m finally lying on a narrow hospital bed, the crisp white sheets barely wrinkled beneath me. After some initial checks, the doctor—a middle-aged man with salt-and-pepper hair and a calm demeanor—finally attends to me. His voice is steady as he assures me, “The reaction isn’t severe. You were fortunate to come in early.”I nod absently, though my mind is barely in the room. The sting of the incident is still fresh. The only thing I can focus on is the discomfort in my chest—the kind that isn’t physical.The door creaks open, and my eyes flick toward it. Claire steps in, her expression a mix of guilt and unease. Annoyingly, Roy is right behind her, his presence already grating on my nerves. My gaze narrows instinctively, but the doctor keeps talking, oblivious to the sudden tension.“Glad it wasn’t worst,” the doctor says, slippin
Isabel’s POVThe drive to the hospital is quiet, save for the occasional hum of Roy’s engine and the faint sound of my own thoughts whirring like a storm. Once we arrive, we step into the cool, sterile air of the lobby and inquire about Alexander King. A nurse directs us to his room, and I let out a breath I didn’t realize I was holding as we head toward it.When we enter, Alexander is lying on the bed, looking much better than when they’d rushed him out of the restaurant. Relief washes over me. I knew it was a mild allergy, but I can’t lie—I worried. What if his allergy had worsened over the years? What if I’d unknowingly caused him serious harm? But seeing him now, steady and breathing fine, the weight lifts.Good, I think. He’ll need his strength for what I have planned next.The doctor explains the situation. “Luckily, it wasn’t severe—just a mild reaction. But you should be careful next time about consuming any dish with hazelnut,” he advises, scribbling on a notepad. Alexander n
Isabel’s POVI knew he was going to do this. The Alexander I know thrives on challenges, and now that he’s beginning to grow feelings for Claire Montgomery, he’d stop at nothing to ruin my date. So I agreed to this place—my little sanctuary. It’s a quiet, dimly lit restaurant nestled in the heart of the city, with dark wooden furniture, soft amber lights, and the faint aroma of lavender in the air. This place has heard more of my sadness than my joy, an escape from the pain he’s caused me.A quiet scoff builds in my throat as he gestures for me to make the order. Typical Alexander, always playing games. And now he wants me to choose the meal? Could it be that he’s walking right into my plan, or is the universe finally favoring me? A smile curves on my lips as I say, “Alright, if you all want me to handle the orders, I will. This is the least I can do for everyone, considering how hard you’ve all been working.”I wave the waiter over, giving him clear instructions. “Bring your chef’s s
Alexander’s POVThe room hums with low chatter, the staff’s hushed voices mingling with the clinking of glasses. Claire sits close beside Roy, their chairs just slightly angled toward each other, while I’m seated opposite them. The tension at the table is palpable, like a taut string ready to snap. My gaze fixes on Claire, tuning out the faint murmurs around me. She seems relaxed, her soft laughter carrying as Roy leans in to whisper something to her.Let’s see how perfect this dinner date turns out for you both, I think, smirking to myself. Satisfaction bubbles quietly within me. I’ve already won by ensuring your little evening didn’t go as planned.But a voice in my head murmurs, What’s gotten into me? Why did I insist we all have dinner together? I shift in my seat, forcing a casual shrug. Well, since we’re here, I might as well enjoy dinner. Why let her go off and leave the rest of us hungry? I nod inwardly, convincing myself this was about consideration for the team.My gaze dri