Collins’ POVWe sit in the private room of a quiet, upscale café, waiting for the other party to arrive.My client, Mark, shifts nervously in his seat, glancing around, clearly uncomfortable. I wonder why. Maybe it’s because he’s about to face the woman who gave him a solid beating.I tap my fingers on the table, trying to keep my thoughts in check. Finally, the door swings open, and the other lawyer enters, followed by the woman.At first, I think my eyes are playing tricks on me. Aria? After all these years of seeing her from a distance, here she is, just a few feet away. She doesn’t know me—of course, she doesn’t—but I’ve memorized every detail. And now, she’s looking at me for the first time. My heart pounds, and I grip the table, trying to steady myself.What are the odds? Of all the cases, of all the women, it had to be her.I quickly dart my eyes to Mark, who’s staring at his hands, biting his lip, avoiding eye contact. My voice drops, barely controlled. “Did you say you did no
Isabel’s POV“So, you’re saying you did beat him up because he refused to apologize, huh?” I ask, walking towards my office desk, gently placing my iPad on it and sinking into my chair. Since yesterday I got back from the office, Aurora hasn’t let me rest, she keeps following like some child. Ranting about some jerk she came across with when she was out with the kids and Aria. The lady my mom introduced as her friend’s daughter at my welcoming party.I narrow my eyes on her as she starts talking, her voice animated, recounting what happened yesterday and how it happened.“Yeah, me and the kids were out with Aria after you left for the office yesterday,” she begins, pacing as she does so. “Then this jerk from the street thought he could sexually play around with us, you know? I asked him to apologize, but he refused and started mouthing off, calling me weak and throwing disgusting words about my body.” She clenches her fists. “I couldn’t take it anymore, Sis. I had to teach him a less
Isabel’s POVThe door swings open, and as Sabrina steps inside, her presence fills the room.She’s dressed in a tailored black dress, elegant but sharp, the kind that screams power. Her red lips curl into a subtle smirk, the same confidence that her son, Alexander King always carries. She’s the chairman of the King’s Empire, after all.I lean back in my chair, watching her with a cool, calm expression.Aurora glances between us, clearly sensing the tension in the air. She’s not one to start drama, but she certainly knows when to step out of the line of fire. And without a beat, she rises from her seat and starts to head out.“Uh,” she parts her mouth open, pinching the bridge of her nose. “I’ll, uh, be leaving now,” she mumbles, gesturing vaguely toward the door. “I think I got some stuff I need to get done.” She adds, practically sprinting out of the office before I can say anything.As the door closes behind Aurora, I take a breath and turn my attention back to Sabrina. “So, you’re
Aurora’s POVI leave the office, finally stepping into the elevator.As the door closes, I let out a breath I didn’t even know I was holding. The soft “bing” of the elevator signals that I’ve reached the ground floor, and as the doors slide open, I step out into the lobby. It’s filled with executives in tailored suits, striding confidently across the gleaming marble floor, their sharp heels clicking with purpose as they head to meetings or greet clients.“Hello, thank you,” I reply to the greeting of the hundredth person today since I arrived at the office with Isabel. Argh! It’s stressful.As I leave the building, the cool breeze from outside greets me. I stop, gazing out at the skyline, watching the bustle of people moving in every direction.The freedom of being outside hits me, but then, as reality sets in, I frown and kick my foot into the air.“Of all days, she has to show up now…” I mutter, annoyed. Of course, Sabrina makes an appearance earlier than expected—today, of all days
Isabel’s POVI make my way down the stairs, dressed in my silk pajamas. The sound of my flip-flops barely making a whisper against the polished wood. Tea. I need tea.The events of the day wash over me, Sabrina King’s visit still weighing heavy on my mind. Her veiled threats replay in my thoughts, sharp and lingering. But instead of feeling victorious, I’m restless, my nerves stretched thin.As I reach the bottom of the stairs, I spot Aurora coming down as well, a sheepish smile plastered on her face. She seems lost in thought, her eyes sparkling with some hidden amusement.I pour myself a cup of tea and take a small sip, letting the warmth spread through me. I lean back slightly, watching her from the corner of my eye. I wonder what on earth has her smiling like that. “Hey girl,” I call, taking a seat on the couch, crossing one leg over the other as I gently place my teacup on the table. My eyes widen with curiosity, a grin spreading across my face. “You left the office early and c
Isabel’s POVThe morning light streams through the window as I try to wake, stretching before rolling out of bed.Today’s a big day—the kids’ first day at their new school. At first, I’m worried that they might find it hard to adapt, given how much they loved their old school in New York. But to my surprise, they’re bouncing with excitement, as if this is an adventure they’ve been waiting for.I smile to myself as I help them into their school uniforms—Sterling in a sharp pair of grey trousers, a crisp white shirt, and a light pink tie, which adds a soft touch of color to his otherwise polished look. Scarlett, in her matching grey pleated skirt and light pink blouse, completes the outfit with a bow at the collar, her hair neatly done. Their little shoes are also polished.I have to admit, I’m amazed at how well they’re taking everything in stride. I guess I must’ve done something good in my past life to be blessed with such incredible kids.They finish dressing quickly, their faces glo
Cynthia’s POVI step into my office, my heart thudding against my chest, anger already flushing over me. I take a deep breath, sinking into the leather chair, but I can’t seem to calm down.Her face—Isabel’s face—keeps flashing in my mind. That smug look she gave me, like she’s already won, like she’s got everything under control. Who does she think she is?Bluffing, saying her PA would text me? I scoff, tilting my head to the side. I see she’s playing some kind of rich brat game, isn’t she? She’s really starting to get on my nerves. Or should I just do away with her once and for all? My lips twist into something sly.Argh! Relax Cynthia. You are still getting to know this new Isabel. I try to calm my nerves. Besides, this new Isabel seems to have a lot of interesting stuff on her. I blink, letting a smile play on my lips. Again, my mind flashes to what she said. Damn it! I can’t believe I was stupid enough to sign that damn contract without reading it properly. So now what, huh?
Alexander’s POVI smile faintly as I dress, the cool fabric of my shirt sliding smoothly against my skin. The tie sits perfectly, the cuffs are crisp, and everything feels in place.For a moment, I feel lighter, like I’ve achieved something—though I can’t quite place what. My mind races through the tasks ahead, then I catch myself in the mirror.Why am I smiling? I pause, studying my reflection.Just then it hits me again. My Mother’s sudden decision. It’s strange how easily she handed me the CEO title at King’s Empire after her visit to LM Group. It’s not like her to make choices without a reason. What could she have discussed with Claire Montgomery? I shake my head, pushing the thought aside. I won’t let it gnaw at me. Today is about moving forward, proving that I’m the right choice.I grab my cologne from the counter, the familiar scent filling the air as I spray it lightly—warm cedarwood with a hint of spice. Isabel used to love this scent.Before I can stop myself, I spray a lit
Isabel’s POVThe air in the room feels heavier as my mother shifts slightly in her seat, her gaze following Alexander as he walks deeper into the room. Her face doesn’t reveal much—neutral as always—but there’s a flicker of unease, just enough for me to notice. She’s good at masking her feelings, but I know her well enough to sense her discomfort at seeing him here.Christine, ever efficient, nods almost immediately, slipping out of the room without a second thought. I watch her go, the click of her heels echoing softly before the door shuts behind her.Alexander stops a few feet away from where my mother sits. “Mrs. Montgomery,” he greets her, his tone formal but measured.My mother presses her lips into a thin line, her expression momentarily tightening as if debating what to say or do next. She clears her throat, her voice flat but laced with an attempt at politeness. “Thanks for bringing my daughter right on time to the hospital.” The words feel forced, her tone unable to mask the
Isabel’s POVThe sterile scent of antiseptic fills my nostrils as my eyes flutter open, blinking against the light of the room. My gaze sweeps over the white walls, the bright fluorescent lights, and the dull silver fixtures—it’s unmistakable. A hospital room.I turn my head slightly, the effort pulling a groan from my lips, and that’s when I see her. My mother. She’s seated beside me, her fingers trembling against the edge of the chair, her face a mask of worry and exhaustion.“Mom…” I croak, trying to push myself upright, but the sharp pull of pain in my limbs forces me to pause.“No, Isabel, don’t!” she exclaims, leaning forward, her hands reaching to stop me. “You don’t have to get up. Christine!” Her voice rises, sharp with urgency as she calls for Christine. “You need to rest. I’ll call the doctor now.”“I’m fine,” I manage, though the weight in my chest says otherwise. I push against the mattress again, and this time, I manage to sit up, my head throbbing in protest. Just as I
Cynthia’s POVThe laughter in our small circle drifts around me like meaningless noise as I sip my champagne. I nod politely, feigning interest, but my mind is elsewhere, unraveling threads I can’t quite pull together.Across the room, a flash of movement catches my attention. My gaze locks on Claire and my father, deep in conversation near the far corner of the hall.It’s strange. My father rarely accepts invitations, especially for events like this. He’s always preferred to keep his distance from society’s endless charades. Yet the moment he heard the name Claire Montgomery, he insisted on attending.I push the thought aside, trying to rationalize it. He’s probably just as curious as everyone else, wondering how someone could look so much like Isabel. But deep down, there’s a nagging unease I can’t quite shake.“I know it’s just business,” a voice from our group cuts into my thoughts, dragging me back. “But there’s something in the way Alexander looks at her.”The words land like a
Alexander’s POVThe moment Claire walks into the event, flanked by an entourage of bodyguards, the air shifts. She commands attention effortlessly, her mere presence drawing every eye in the room, including mine. I can’t help but stare. It’s not just her striking resemblance to Isabel—it’s everything else about her. The power she exudes, the confidence in her every step, the way she holds herself as though the world bows to her. Isabel was never like this. Isabel lived in my shadow, content to be the soft-spoken wife, the woman who leaned on me for support.Claire, though—she’s a force of nature. A far cry from the life Isabel led. And yet, despite all the reasons I’ve found to dismiss any connection between them, my gut won’t let go of the hunch. It doesn’t make sense. Why does she interest me so much?Her eyes lock with mine, just for a brief moment. There’s something unreadable in her gaze, but before I can analyze it, she tilts her head ever so slightly and places a soft smile on
Isabel’s POVMy heart races, pounding against my ribs like a desperate drumbeat as I strain to make sense of the suffocating dark. My fingers claw at the air, searching for something, anything, but it’s too dark to see. Too dark to breathe. And then I hear it—or think I do—a steady, deliberate breath. It’s close. Too close. A man’s breath, growing louder with every second, each sound a knife against my sanity.Panic grips me like a vice, my throat tightening as I suppress the urge to scream. Who could feel sane in a moment like this? The imagined sound grows heavier, impossibly near, and my mind spirals into chaos. Is he standing in front of me? Watch me? Waiting? My heart slams against my chest as if it’s trying to break free. The darkness feels alive, pressing in, trapping me.Then, like a cruel twist of fate, the lights flicker back on. My vision adjusts, and the room reclaims its reality. He isn’t too close: there’s no breath on my neck. It was all in my head. But there he is—
Isabel’s POVFelix Castillo approaches me with the kind of calm confidence that only someone of his stature can carry. His glass of champagne catches the light as he raises it in a mock toast, his lips curling into a small smile. “Miss Montgomery,” he greets, his tone smooth, polished, almost theatrical. I respond with a curt nod and a polite smile, masking the unease bubbling beneath my composed exterior.“Finally, I get the chance to talk to you,” he says, letting a soft laugh escape. “I think I should feel honored.”I don’t get the joke, but I force a cheeky smile, hoping it’s enough to mask my confusion. He leans in slightly, his dark eyes sharp yet unreadable. “You’re quite interesting,” he remarks.My brow furrows ever so slightly, though I quickly smooth it out. “What do you mean by that, Mr. Castillo?” I ask, keeping my tone professional, unwilling to let him see that his words have put me on edge.His lips lift in a softer smile, one that doesn’t quite reach his eyes. “Simply
Isabel’s POVThe applause is polite, the kind that fills the void but lacks sincerity. Cynthia stands on the stage, the perfect picture of poise. Her smile is calculated, her words carefully chosen as she speaks about the partnership.“This foundation,” she begins, her voice smooth like honey yet edged with steel, “is about creating opportunities for those in need, and I can’t do it without our incredible partners. And, of course, a special volunteer who so graciously dedicates her time to this cause—Claire Montgomery.”Her words hang in the air, drawing a wave of approving murmurs from the crowd. I know exactly what she’s doing—painting me as the willing participant in her grand narrative, carefully crafting the story she wants the world to see.When she gestures toward me, I plaster on a polite smile and move toward the stage. The applause swells as I climb the steps, the weight of every camera in the room pressing down on me. The event host’s voice booms, welcoming me with an enthu
Isabel’s POVThe sound of my mother’s worried voice pulls me back into the present as she says softly, “If you want, I can go with you to the event.”I shake my head gently, offering a faint smile. “You don’t have to worry about me, Mom. I’ll be good.”Aurora, my ever-outspoken sister, immediately interjects. “Now that’s a lie. How can you be okay? Sis, this is Cynthia we’re talking about here. You, of all people, should know how cunning and evil she is. She betrayed you, remember? And had an affair with your husband! She can literally do anything just to get what she wants.”Her words hang in the air like a blade, slicing through the tenuous peace of the room. My eyes flick to Aurora, and she immediately clamps her hand over her mouth. “Sorry,” she mumbles, her voice subdued. “I didn’t mean to bring that up. It’s just… you’re getting too close to them, and I’m worried.”I glance at my mother, who nods solemnly, her agreement written across her face.A sigh escapes my lips, long and w
Cynthia’s POVThe night hums with energy as I stand near the entrance, a practiced smile on my face. The gown I chose—a sleek, emerald-green number that hugs my figure and flares slightly at the hem—glimmers under the soft amber lights. Diamond earrings dangle from my ears, catching every flicker of light, while my hair is swept into a perfect chignon, leaving no strand out of place.Guests arrive steadily, each greeted with my charm and poise. Alexander is off to the side, mingling with a group of well-dressed individuals, his expression unreadable as always. My father’s presence, though, is the real surprise tonight.I recall our earlier conversation. He hadn’t been interested, his disinterest as familiar as the cold indifference I grew up with—until I mentioned my partner. His response had been subtle, his face betraying nothing, but I felt the shift. Something about Claire Montgomery intrigued him. And here he is tonight, standing among the city’s elite. I purse my lips, half-smil