"Dad, do you need anything?" I queried, seeing his almost empty plate.
He turned to me before shaking his head vigorously before giving me a small smile. "No, I'm full," I gave him a small nod in response.
"So, Hope, what are you going to wear for tomorrow?" He asked out of the blue. My features instantly morphed into confusion.
What is dad talking about?
"Tomorrow?" I asked, voicing my curiosity.
"Yes, for tomorrow's party?-" There's a party? "-You are going with Xavier, right?" This time dad's tone was laced with uncertainty.
Going with Xavier?
I had no idea there would be a party tomorrow. He didn't even feel the need to mention the party, let alone invite me to accompany him. My heartache at the thought.
When?
When are you going to accept me, Xavier?
"Actua-" I trailed off, trying to come off with an excuse, but dad swiftly cut me off.
"You didn't know?" Judging by dad's tone, I knew it wasn't a question. He just wanted to hear the truth from me....pain and simple.
"I knew I was just busy, it just got out of my head," Ignoring my rapidly pulsing heart, I lied straight through my teeth.
I very well knew what would happen if dad came to know about the truth. I didn't want them to fight, especially because of me. Their relationship is already rocky and I don't want to do the job of fueling a fire. By the way, dad's eyes hardened. I instantly knew he didn't trust me.
His orbs were burning in fury to the point I was sure he was going to shoot fireballs. He aggressively snapped his head towards Xavier. I was surprised he didn't break his hyoid bone.
On the other hand, Xavier was eating without a care in the world. He was laid-back about it all.
"You didn't tell her?" Dad's voice trembled with outrage.
"I'm not taking her anywhere," Xavier utters in a calm, dispassionate way.
"Xavier, your behavior is uncalled for. When are you going to accept her and give her the respect she deserves?" Dad's remark seemed to have infuriated Xavier as he glared back at dad, incensed.
"Why don't you take her? You seem to like her more than mother," I couldn't believe he could say something like that.
I know Xavier is doing all this on purpose but I couldn't help feeling humiliated and disrespected. I have always told myself, I'll not let his words get through my head, but every time they pierce through my head like a bullet. I was barely holding myself not to burst out into tears.
"XAVIER, YOU ARE CROSSING YOUR LINE," Dad yelled.
A loud smack resonates throughout the room as his palm hit the wooden surface of the expensive table.
I jumped in fright at dad's sudden aggressive action. Xavier, on the other hand, didn't even bat his lashes. Instead, he looked bored like the day was wasting his time.
"SPEAK YOU UNGRATEFUL BRAT," Bitterness leaking from Dad's tone seeing his son's disrespectful behavior.
He looked almost like he would pounce on Xavier any moment or in straight words he looked close to snapping. I can't let that happen.
"No, it's okay dad. I'm not a party person. I'll just embarrass myself."
I let out an awkward laugh trying to lighten up the mood, but it didn't seem to have worked since no one cackled. Instead, the tension in the room seemed to have risen. The only thing I wanted right now was the floor to crack open and consume me inside.
Dad let out a series of curses under his breath which I could clearly hear, but let's just pretend I didn't. I could feel someone's stare, drilling a hole in the side of my head and know whose it is very well. Xavier is my husband.
Without intending my head to turn towards him and I was right, he was gawking at me in a strange way. My gaze dropped to the floor feeling intimidated under his scrutinizing.
Why is he staring at me?
The next thing I knew was the sound of the chairs scraping reverberated around the big silent room, making me cringe at the unpleasant sound. My eyes immediately shot up to see Xavier standing. Without wasting a moment. He rushed towards the exit.
"Xavier honey, where are you going? Eat the food," Sandra called him, but Xavier, being the typical him, walked out, shutting her out.
My eye unconsciously traveled to his plate. A defeated sigh escaped me as I saw the half-eaten food.
This wasn't supposed to happen.
I looked towards Sandra, who was throwing daggers with her sharp gaze. "Are you happy now? You are not going to be happy without troubling my son, are you?" Her tone was accusing.
I'll confess her attitude irked me slightly at times, but I refused to be provoked. I have to keep calm at all costs. After all, she is my mother-in-law.
"I-I" I stammer like a fool, trying to come up with an answer that won't put me into a difficult position.
"Sandra, it's not her fault, it's your son's," Dad said, taking Sandra's attention from me.
"Of course, you'll tell me that. Everyone knows how much you hate my son," Sandra's tone dripped with malice. Sometimes I really believe Sandra is nothing more than a hot-tempered child with a woman's body.
"Don't speak nonsense, he's my son too."
"Well, then act like one," Sandra flushed angrily as she abruptly rose from her seat before walking towards the entrance.
Stung by Sandra's mockery, dad shook his head in disbelief. "Sandra, I'm not done-"
"Dad, I'm sorry for cutting you but I really don't want to go," Dad didn't look convinced, he looked ready to protest. "Please," I added desperately.
His gaze softened at my words. "I'm sorry, Hope it's all my fault," He almost sounded defeated.
"Dad I'm fine," I straightforwardly lied to him.
Dad's expression clearly said he didn't believe a thing, but fortunately, he didn't push the matter forward.
"I don't know why can't Xavier see how wonderful you are?" He said, rubbing his right temple using his middle and index fingers.
"Because not everyone has good taste," I joke, wiggling my brows.
Dad, fortunately, let out a little cackle at my lame joke. The skin of his forehead wrinkles as he laughs. I know I've mentioned before, the situation we all are in is pretty much dad's fault, but he doesn't have to live in remorse. That was never my intention nor ever will be.
"Why are you standing? Come eat with me," She said, patting the empty site beside him.
"Actually, dad, I'll take some food for Xavier first get he didn't eat properly."
"Xavier doesn't deserve you," he said with a sad smile.
"I know," was all I said.
Even though I never felt like that, dad doesn't need to know that, right?
Dad rose from his seat and headed towards me until he was standing inches apart from me. My brows knitted in confusion.
I was about to inquire if he needed anything but before I could, I was pulled into his warm chest as his long limps encircled around me. For almost a minute, I just stood there trying to process what happened before I found my hand wrapping around dad.
I won't lie, it really felt nice to have a fatherly figure in your life. I never knew my biological father. My mom got pregnant with me when she was just fifteen. She was stupid and careless, but who isn't at that age?
His warm and lovely embrace gave me a sense of comfort and security which I hadn't found after my mom. I really miss her. I do a lot. After all, she was the only person I had in my life.
"You are such a kind child. You don't deserve this," he said, gently unwrapping his limbs.
He stared at me with his sad and kind orbs for a moment and, in a swift motion, he turned around and walked out of the room. I grabbed another plate and filled it with food and began to head to Xavier's room.
Taking a deep breath to steady my racing heart. I lifted my hand and stopped right at the midway, suddenly feeling nervous and scared.
Relax, he is not a ghost. Hope, he's your husband. You can do it.
After the small self-encouraging speech, I struck with a series of rapid soft yet audible blows on the door to attract Xavier's attention. I waited for him to respond or answer, but nothing even after two minutes passed by.
I was about to knock again when the door creaked open. Xavier stood at the other side of the door on his white T-shirt and grey sweatpants. He looked bewitching even in casual clothing.
"What are you doing here," I flinched at the acidity in his voice.
"Your food," was all I managed to answer.
His eye flickered to the plate in my hand for a brief moment before returning to my face.
"Why are you acting like you care about me," Did he really think I don't care about him and all my concern and care is just a mere act?
"I do care about you," My voice surprisingly came out firmly.
Xavier almost looked surprised by the use of my tone before he went back to his usual stoic expression. He grabbed the plate from my hand and, without another word, he shut the door right in my face.
I was awakened by a faint glimmer of the sunbeam that streamed from the window. My eyelids unrolled but instantly pinched shut as harsh streaks of the sunray descended straight to my iris, irritating and blinding it.Letting out an irritating sigh, I hunched myself into a sitting position, my back pressed against the bedpost. I feel feeble and lousy. Rubbing my still tired eyes, I tried to get rid of the little sleep still left on them.My eyes flickered at the digital clock hung on the wall opposite read two thirty-eight pm in large orange numbers. My eyes widened into a saucer and panic settled inside of me.Oh! God, I am late making snacks.I am two hundred percent sure Sandra and Soniya are going to murder me. The image of their angry faces made me involuntarily shudder. I mentally shook my head, to blot out the image.I shot out of bed and bolted towards the bathroom. I splashed cold water on my face before re-entering my bedroom. Not flattering my steps, I further dashed out of
I hastened my lagging steps and the breath escaped my lungs in a quick sigh of relief as the market came into my line of vision.Finally...I headed towards the entrance but before I could enter, I crashed into a body. I stumbled a bit but balanced myself before I could fall straight on my butt.I craned up to gaze at the person who almost made me fall. My eyelids stretched wide seeing an otherworldly creature with full lips, large luminous eyes.Even the way she wore her hair, with those braids wrapped around the top of her head like a crown and long shiny red curls falling around her shoulders and her back.Her slender form was enhanced by the tight black dress. She looked painfully beautiful."Are you blind," She said in her shrill, harsh voice. Bitterness slithered through her as she pinned me with her sharp glaze."I'm sorry," I was quick to apologize. "Are you okay," I took a few steps towards her just to make sure she wasn't hurt.Before I could reach her, she retreated a coupl
"Where are you coming from?" Startled, I turned to face the voice, recognizing it was my husband.My heart skipped a beat when I saw Xavier on the sofa. I couldn't make out his face as the room was dark, but I could only see the outline of his form.What is he doing here?Wasn't he supposed to be at the party? Maybe the party was at noon. Yes, that must be it.The light was flipped on. The sudden brightness blinded me and I shielded my sensitive eyes.Xavier was settled comfortably on the couch that was at the distance of ten feet, pinning me with a withering look. A sense of power swirled around him. The man radiated power and control, even in a simple T-shirt and sweatpants.My eyes flickered at the nearly half-empty pint of vodka on the table next to him.Did something happen?Why was he drinking?"Where were you?" His voice took me out of my funk."Groceries," was all I said. His eyes traveled down my hand before returning to my face."Who was he?" His voice was calm, too calm for
Hope...The words have great significance in my life.First, it's my name.Second, because it is the only thing I have been doing for two years. HopeThe hope of getting my husband's love. Hope to have normal relationships with my in-lawsI always used to think, why my mom kept my name hope when I am hopeless. Maybe she saw me as her hope for new life and a better future, but I wasn't her hope, I was destruction. My mom lost everything she had when she got pregnant with me.Her dreams, her family, her happiness. Everything. I wasn't planning. It was a mistake that my mom made. But she didn't let me ever fall. She never complained about anything. Not once. And I'm very grateful for that.But it's not the same with Xavier though. He is bold, upfront, and blunt. He has always been a person who doesn't hesitate to vocalize what's on his mind. A part of me admires him for that, but another part doesn't, because sometimes he can be too straightforward and honest.I know I'm being selfish; I
My sense of dread and agitation filled me, replacing all the excitement I had as I started at the door. Don't be afraid, he's your husband. He won't hurt you. I just hope he doesn't get angry at my appearance in his office.Taking a deep breath, my fingers curled up into a fist. My hand flew up before hesitantly pounding my fist softly against the door. Even waiting for a minute, I heard no response from inside. My brows furrowed in confusion.Why isn't he answering?Has he gone somewhere?Just when I concluded Xavier must have gone somewhere, I heard a small "come in" from the other end. Grabbing the knob, I twist it before pushing the door open.My eyes widened as I saw the scene unfold in front of me. Xavier stood there in the room along with a woman whose brown hair ruffled all over the place. Her blood-red lipstick was smudged.She was dressed in a revealing top. Her breast almost spilling out of her dress and extra tight and small skirt as if she'd just come from some club, her
My eyes traveled to the man before, who was supposedly my husband. I'm surprised to see him out here. This is the first time in these two years he has entered my room. I never thought this day would come.Similar to before, there was no remorse in his face, and my throat tightened. Looks like he's incapable of empathy or remorse.I watched as his wandering gaze traveled down to my chest and the light of lust flared in his gaze. Realization crossed upon me about my half nudity. I instantly crossed my arms, making an attempt to conceal my nakedness from his two sets of shape gaze staring at me.Upon my action, his gaze shifted momentarily back to my face and his gaze met mine with the same lust-filled eyes that made my heart flutter.On the other hand, seeing him here unleashed the dark memories of Xavier and of that woman rapidly and clearly, which lingered like smoke after a fire as I couldn't stem the image of them flooding my mind. I felt the wound of Xavier's betrayal reopened wide
A loud and impatient knock awoke me, and I blinked groggily. A flash of irritation crossed my whole being.Which idiot is disturbing me at this moment?Covering my eyes with my hand, I buried my face into the pillow with a groan. Despite my irritation, I had no option other than to respond to whoever was continuously banging on my door like a mad person.With another frustrated groan, I shrugged out of the sheet to stand but before I could. A familiar voice shrieked from the other side of the door. "Hope, open the goddamn door,"My eyes enlarged in what felt like panic as I realized it was none other than my mother-in-law Sandra.What is she doing here at this time?Jumping from the bed, she dressed quickly and went to open the door. The instant I opened the door, I was met by Sandra, who was standing on the other side of the door. The annoyed expression on her face changed in a way evidently into harshness and acidity."What the hell were you doing?""I'm so-sorry, I didn't realize I
When I woke up, the room was dark, except for the low light of the lamp. Who turned the lamp on? Maybe Xavier did. Why am I even thinking about this? Letting out a deep breath, I rubbed my eyes briskly to remove any trace of sleep left.I tried to sit up but my movement was restricted. Confused, I turned my head to the side only to find Xavier's arm was draped across me protectively.I couldn't help but stare at him. His other hand was on his chest, his warm plump lips parted. His eyelids pinched shut. His chest rises and falls in rhythm. The aura around him was as calm and peaceful, unlike the intimidating and dominant Xavier he usually is. He looked rather at ease and at peace.A smile blossomed on my face as I remember how he held me the entire night. It was like a dream come true. A part of me still doesn't understand why he did that.Is he starting to accept me? Or maybe like a little too. I could feel the warmth of the blush as it crawled up my neck at my own thoughts.I was pro
As soon as Lucas was out of my sight I swiveled around directing my gaze towards Kandel who was now struggling to get herself in her feet.I instantly rushed to her side and draped my arm around her shoulder supporting her battered and weak body. Her swollen and red eyes flickered upon me at the contact."Let me help you," I said with a forced smile on my face.She stared at me before passing a forced smile of her own. Once I helped her on her feet and led her towards the bed. Before we could reach there her ankle twisted. She almost tripped down but thankfully my reflex kicked in and my hold tightened."Careful," I softly utter."I'm sorry," she croaked out.I threw a small smile wordlessly reassuring her everything was okay before laying her in the middle of the bed. I looked at the bedside table but found the jar empty."I'll go get some water for you" Saying I bend down do grab the handle of the empty jar. My movements were restrained as a hand latched mine.Drawing my eyes toward
I absolutely hate being in his presence and here I'm kissing him. It took everything in me not to jerk away from him. Somehow, I managed to gather courage to touch my lips with his but I froze after that. Our lips were touching each other but were completely immobilized as if .I am not even exaggerating, this has to be the most awkward thing I have ever experienced in my entire life.The absence of emotions from Elijah had self-doubt creeping in once again. How did I even think I would be able to seduce him? I know I look much better than what I used to a few years back, but am I attractive? I don't think so.Feeling absolutely hopeless, I decide to drop this seduction act. It's not working anyway. I just hope I am not in trouble. This was such a bad idea in many ways. I wanted to slap myself for being so stupid.Right when I was about to retract a step back. He snaked his buff arms around my hip and jerked me forward, making me collide with his toned body. A yelp escaped me, taken a
My eyes clouded, blurring my vision as a wave of dizziness hit me.Not again....I internally huff in vexation.My stomach felt upset and a wave of nausea came over me.I wanted to pull my hair in frustration. As if my life didn't have enough problems, now I am sick too and it's been a week and there is no sign of any improvement. Instead, it's getting worse with each passing day. I am struggling to find happiness in my life. God I am being too dramatic these days. Yes, my life is a mess, but I don't have to replay misfortune when something happens.I was just thinking when someone entered the kitchen. Upon looking behind, I found one person. I had almost forgotten the whole existence of the person.Andrea.Her eyes instantly locked with mine. She seemed satisfied to see the shock in my eyes. Lowering my head, I tried to concentrate on the boiling pork meat which I was craving so badly. Even though I don't work as a maid anymore. I cook something for myself."My my I see you are still
"Relax babe she didn't mean it. I am sure she was scared," Kendal made up trying to control the situation."No, I meant each and everything, trust me," The words fell out of my mouth in a confident tone. I don't know where I was getting the courage from, but I was proud of myself even knowing my action could be lethal.Kandel's eyes enlarged for a split second before narrowing, seemingly pleading me to shut up and let her speak. I appreciated her concern for me, but I wasn't in a mood to back down. At this point, I didn't even care that I was crossing my line. I was sick and tried of people treating me like dirt and using me as their wish.My remark was followed by Luca's humorless laugh, but for a moment before he grew serious once again. "See this bitch. I'll strip out all her attitude today,""Lucas, relax please," Kandel pleaded. She sounded close to crying."I would like to see you try," I threw back. I knew I was acting stupid, but like I mentioned, I didn't care anymore.Having
Drawing a frustrated sigh out of me, I snuggled into the comforter. It was already two in the morning and I was feeling restless. For the past five hours I have been trying and twisting, deriving no sleep. Despite the tiredness I feel, I can't sleep at night.Facing up towards the ceiling, I began thinking about my life. My life has drastically changed in a matter of a few months. Not even in my worst nightmare did I imagine I would be stuck in such a surreal situation. I somehow have to survive in this dark world and I have no idea how long I'll manage to survive.After several minutes, the sudden sound of the door creaking open had my neck twisted on its own to the direction of the door. My eyebrows drew together in confusion. How could it be sneaking inside at this time?My ear picked up an unsteady footstep entering the room. Out of the corner of my eyes I saw was a figure. The room was pitch dark, which made it impossible for me to identify the person. From the blurry bulky frame
I looked up at her. Worry lines formed on her forehead, making her gorgeous face look a bit more mature than she normally does. No matter how much her habit of constantly wanting to know my business irritates me. I have to admit this girl is an epitome of beauty and kindness. They fact she bothered to ask say what a kind soul she is."I fell?" My tone was unsure as I came up with a ridiculous excuse which screamed a lie to my own ears and on top of that, it didn't even come as a statement but rather a question."You fell?" Disbelief evident in her tone and face, suggesting she'd caught me out in some misdemeanor.Involuntarily, my eyes went to Elijah. Surprisingly, his gaze was already on me. No concern or regard, no ounce of empathy. As if nothing had happened and he had done nothing wrong. Suppressing the urge to punch him, I turned back to Kendal.God, I am so done with being interrogated every time."Yes, I fell," I answered with a short, awkward laugh.My reaction had her frown d
My eyelids fluttered in an attempt to open it but I couldn't. My eyes felt like they were carrying the weight of an elephant. After a few attempts, I successfully opened them but clenched them back instantly, when the warm and bright sunbeams fell directly on my eyes, burning them.A brief moment after, I pried my eyes open. With my blurred vision, I was incapable of distinguishing anything more than their vague shapes.I slowly hoist my tired body up into a sitting position, leaning my body against the headpost, rubbing my eyes at the same time in an endeavor to clear my cloudy vision. This time my vision was very clear but still a bit dim, so blinking rapidly, I tried to adjust to a bright ray surrounding the room.My lips parted as an unladylike yawn threatened to float out of my lips, but instead a hiss escaped my lips at the sharp pain that hit me. My jaw felt like it had been dislocated. For a second I thought I must have slept in an odd position, but then the vivid memory of y
I averted my attention back to Elijah, only to find his unwavering gaze was lingering on me. There was no gentleness in his eyes, rather annoyance.'Oh god he seems livid'Before I could apologize for zoning out, the loud ringing of Elijah's cell phone intruded the room, cutting off the tense atmosphere. Letting out a groan, he produced his phone from his jacket's pocket, checked the caller ID.Lazily swiping the screen to the left, he sticks the gadget to his left ear. "Speak," is all he says, in an impassive tone."I don't have time for it," Elijah replied after a brief second. His tone was nonchalant as always.Whatever the person on the other side of the line said had him mumbling something under his breath, seemingly pissed. It was beyond obvious he was beginning to lose his calm, judging from the ticking of his muscles."I said I don't have time," This tone was crisp.This time the calmness in his tone wavered slightly, yet he managed to shake my heart. This man scares me to my
Elijah touched her bruised cheek, making her smile fade. Her eyes dropped down for a split second as if she had been busted doing something wrong. When she looked up again, she had recovered and put on another smile, but this time it wasn't genuine. Her eyes clearly reflected her inner state, regardless of an attempt to mask it."He, did it?" Although it came across as a question, something told me he just wanted confirmation from her.And who is this he?Who is he?Brother?Father?"What do you mean?" She feigned unawareness, fidgeting her finger.She was clearly disinterred in having conversation or more like this specific discussion. Her whole behavior screamed that whoever he was, he successfully sowed deep terror in her."You know what I mean. Stop trying to dodge my question, answer before I lose my shit,""Please don't."This time she made no effort to hide the hint of gloom in her eyes. Elijah chuckled humorlessly, his eyes gleaming with a fierce frenzy."Yes, or No?" He growl