"Kinsey," Olive called out Kinsey's attention as she didn't spare her another glance."Kinsey, the woman is calling your name," Taylor said as she noticed Olive. "Who is she?""Just an acquaintance," Kinsey said, not giving so much importance to Olive. "Go ahead, don't wait for me. We're on a different route anyway," she added.Taylor nodded and immediately went ahead and took a taxi."An acquaintance, huh?" Olive repeated Kinsey's words, her voice filled with irritation."Don't talk to me, Olive. We're done!" She said nonchalantly. "If you think you can blackmail me again about my mom's relic, don't bother. I already have it," she added, showing her bracelet.Olive was shocked that Kinsey already had it and had no idea how she escaped Harold and his thugs. But that's not why she's here, so she dismissed the topic."Good for you, Kinsey," Olive said like she cared. "But that's not why I'm here.""I'm not interested in why you're here. After everything you've done to me, I don't have t
Gordon stumbled as he walked closer to Kinsey, and she couldn't help but notice his disheveled state. His usually neat appearance was marred by tousled hair and rumpled clothes, and the smell of alcohol hung heavy in the air around him. His eyes were glazed over, and his movements were unsteady as he staggered into the backyard.Kinsey felt a pang of discomfort as she took in Gordon's appearance. She had never seen him like this before, and seeing him in such a state only deepened her unease."Gordon, you're drunk," Kinsey stated bluntly, her voice tinged with exasperation as she stepped back from him.Gordon let out a drunken laugh, swaying slightly on his feet as he looked at Kinsey with bleary eyes. "So what if I am?" he slurred, his words coming out in a jumble.Kinsey shook her head, her frustration mounting. She had hoped that Gordon would have some semblance of sobriety, but it was clear that he was in no state to hold a coherent conversation. "What are you doing here, Gordon?
Sensing Kinsey's confusion, Brandon rephrased his words. "Pleased me, Kinsey.""You want me to please you?" Kinsey said questioningly, her voice filled with disgust. She felt humiliated and disappointed by Brandon's request. "In your dreams!"Brandon's demeanor darkened to Kinsey's refusal of his request. This woman dared to disobey her so many times. "I told you to never cheat on me," he snapped. "We have rules, Kinsey," he reminded her.Kinsey stood her ground, her frustration evident in her voice as she confronted Brandon. She wouldn't allow this man to control her all he wanted. "I'm tired of you constantly accusing me of things I haven't done," she exclaimed, her hands trembling with anger. "I have never cheated on you, and I never will. But you refuse to believe me!"Brandon's expression hardened, his jaw clenched with frustration. "How can I believe you when I see you kissing another man right before me?" he shot back, his tone laced with bitterness. "You can't expect me to tru
Kinsey couldn't shake the unease that settled over her as the presentation began. She couldn't help but steal glances at Amelia, wondering what she thought of her ideas.She nervously presented her marketing plan for expanding Quantum Shop's reach. With each slide she clicked through, she explained her strategies for leveraging social media platforms, partnering with influencers, and implementing referral programs to attract new retailers and consumers.Despite her nerves, Kinsey found herself gradually relaxing in Amelia's presence, her initial apprehension giving way to a sense of connection. Amelia listened intently, nodding in approval as Kinsey outlined her well-thought-out ideas. When Kinsey finished her presentation, she held her breath, waiting for Amelia's response."Kinsey, that was truly impressive," Amelia said with a genuine smile. "Your marketing plan is both innovative and strategic. I can see why Karl recommended you for this project."Kinsey felt a wave of relief wash
Jacob would never let the night end without taking revenge against Kinsey's rejection of him. He was not the type who takes rejection so quickly; as a Simons, he presumed everyone should bow down to him. With that, he was fast enough to form a plan to retaliate against Kinsey. And two waitresses had agreed to be his accomplice.As Kinsey fixed her makeup in the comfort room, she was approached by one of the waitresses, who engaged her in conversation to distract her. Meanwhile, the other waitress stealthily slipped Jacob's watch into Kinsey's purse.Kinsey was unaware of the deceit around her until Jacob suddenly swooped in and snatched her purse away as he exited the comfort room. Shocked and confused, she was momentarily speechless."What are you doing?" Kinsey exclaimed, her voice tinged with alarm as Jacob accused her of stealing his watch.Jacob's face twisted into a smug grin with a watch on his hand, holding it up for everyone to see. "So, the thief is caught red-handed but sti
Kinsey stood in the doorway, her heart heavy with a mixture of emotions as she gazed upon Brandon, sprawled out on the sofa. Despite the tension that lingered between them, a pang of concern tugged at her conscience."Brandon," she called out softly, her voice tinged with frustration and worry. "What are you doing here?"Brandon stirred slightly at her voice, his eyelids fluttering open as he attempted to focus on her figure in the dimly lit room. "Kinsey?" he mumbled groggily, his words slurred from the effects of alcohol. "Is that you?" He asked sternly. His voice changed instantly, and his demeanor turned sour."Yes, I'm home," Kinsey replied, her tone laced with a hint of reproach. "But why are you drunk, Brandon? You should have gone to bed. You shouldn't be drinking like this. It's not good for you." Her voice was gentler now as she approached him cautiously.Brandon attempted to sit up, his movements clumsy and uncoordinated as he struggled to gather his thoughts. "Where have y
As Kinsey delved deeper into the news reports, she uncovered a web of deceit and betrayal that had ensnared Brandon in the aftermath of his parents' tragic demise. The more she read, the more precise the picture became, and her heart ached for him.It was revealed that Brandon's uncle, whom he had trusted to look after his interests in the family business, had instead seized the opportunity to exploit his vulnerability. Under the disguise of offering support and guidance, the uncle systematically manipulated Brandon and orchestrated his removal from the company.The realization hit Kinsey like a physical blow, filling her with a potent mixture of pain and anger. She couldn't fathom how someone could be so cruel and selfish, especially to a grieving young man who had already suffered so much loss.Tears welled up in Kinsey's eyes as she thought about the injustice Brandon had endured at the hands of his own flesh and blood. The betrayal certainly cut deep, leaving a wound even though i
Brandon sat in his office, his mind still grappling with the business card Kinsey had given him. He couldn't shake the feeling of unease that lingered within him, wondering how she had come across a card from the best hack organization.As he pondered this, his assistant, Max, entered the room, breaking his train of thought. Max's presence drew Brandon's attention, and he turned to face his assistant with a questioning look."Max, what's the latest update?" Brandon inquired, his voice laced with a hint of curiosity.Max approached Brandon's desk, holding a file in his hand. "Sir, I wanted to inform you that the top hacker who disappeared long ago has logged in again," Max reported in his tone grave.Brandon's eyebrows furrowed in response to the news. The reappearance of the elusive hacker was significant, and he couldn't help but wonder about the individual's motives."Have they accepted their mission?" Brandon asked, his voice tinged with anticipation.Max nodded in confirmation. "Y
Brandon and Kinsey slowly cut into the cake, and as the slice was pulled away, a collective gasp filled the room. The inside of the cake was a brilliant blue."It's a boy!" shouted Taylor, throwing her hands up in celebration.Those who had bet on a boy cheered, while those who had hoped for a girl joined in the joyous laughter. Cooper lifted Connor into the air, both of them laughing with excitement. "I have a playmate," Connor shouted.Brandon laughed and then turned to Kinsey, his eyes misty with emotion. "We’re having a son."Kinsey's smile was radiant. "Yes, we are. I can’t wait to meet him."Amelia clapped her hands, beaming with joy. "Congratulations! A little boy is going to bring so much happiness into your lives."Chelsea hugged Kinsey tightly. "I'm so happy for you both. This baby is going to be so loved."Grandpa Benjamin's eyes twinkled as he motioned for everyone to gather around. "I have a special gift for Brandon and Kinsey," he began, his voice warm with affection. "I
"If you ever look at her like that again, I will make your lives here like hell. Don't test me," Brandon said as he stepped forward, his voice low and menacing.Thomas and Johnny exchanged a wary glance, the threat in Brandon's tone cutting through their bravado. They knew all too well the reach of Brandon’s power, even within prison walls."Alright, alright," Johnny said, raising his hands in mock surrender. "No need to get all worked up. What do you want, Brandon?"Brandon took a deep breath, trying to control the anger boiling inside him. "I want to know why. Why did you kill my parents?"Thomas's face twisted with bitterness. "Elliot was always the golden child, wasn’t he? Dad’s favorite, the one trusted with everything. And what were we? The leftovers. We had to scrape by while he got it all handed to him."Johnny nodded, his expression mirroring Thomas’s resentment. "We hated him. We hated how he looked down on us, how he had everything we wanted. But we never meant to kill your
In the morning, Brandon gently caressed Kinsey’s scars, his fingers tracing the faint lines left by Blair’s brutal whipping. His jaw tightened as he thought about the pain his wife must have endured. His heart ached, a mix of anger and sorrow. He would make sure Blair paid for what she had done."Good morning, beautiful," Brandon whispered as he noticed Kinsey slowly flickering her eyelids open.Kinsey smiled, her cheeks flushing pink at the memory of the passionate night they had shared. They had both been insatiable, rediscovering each other most intimately. "Good morning," she replied softly, her voice filled with contentment.Brandon’s eyes softened as he looked at her. "How are you feeling?" he asked, his tone gentle."Better," Kinsey said, her smile widening. "Especially after last night."Brandon chuckled, leaning down to kiss her forehead. "I’m glad to hear that. What do you want for breakfast? I can have anything you like brought up."Kinsey’s face turned serious as she propp
For a moment, time seemed to stand still. Brandon's eyes widened in surprise, then filled with a joy so intense it took his breath away. "A baby?" he repeated, his voice choking with emotion.Kinsey nodded, tears of happiness welling up in her eyes. "Yes, Brandon. We're going to have a baby."A broad smile spread across Brandon's face, and he let out a joyful laugh, lifting Kinsey off her feet and spinning her around gently. "We're having a baby!" he exclaimed, his voice ringing with excitement. He set her down carefully, cupping her face in his hands and kissing her deeply.Kinsey melted into the kiss, feeling the warmth of his love and the reassurance of his touch. She wrapped her arms around his neck, pulling him closer. "I was so nervous to tell you. I thought you wouldn't like to have a baby yet," she admitted, her voice soft against his lips.Brandon pulled back just enough to look into her eyes. "Nervous? Kinsey, this is the best news I've ever heard. You've made me the happies
The soft murmur of conversations and the clinking of champagne glasses filled the elegant ballroom where Taylor and Daniel’s wedding was in full swing. Brandon couldn’t take his eyes off his wife, Kinsey. She looked stunning in the custom gown he had arranged, a delicate creation that seemed to shimmer under the soft lights. Brandon himself was dressed in a tailored suit that complemented her dress perfectly, a symbol of their unity and love.As they stood together, Kinsey glanced up at him, feeling his gaze. "You look absolutely beautiful," Brandon murmured, his voice filled with admiration and love. "I can't believe how lucky I am to have you by my side."Kinsey blushed, a warm flush spreading across her cheeks. "Thank you, Brandon. You look incredibly handsome too. This suit... it’s perfect."Brandon smiled, his eyes twinkling with affection. "I wanted us to look our best tonight. It’s a special day for Taylor and Daniel, and I wanted to make sure we could celebrate it fully, as a
As Brandon and Kinsey stepped through the door of the Simons' Mansion, the last person they expected to see was Cooper. The man stood in the foyer, his posture tense but his eyes determined."Cooper?" Kinsey's voice trembled with shock. "What are you doing here?"Brandon’s initial reaction was fury. "What the hell are you doing in my house without any prior notice?" His voice was hard, filled with protective anger.Cooper raised his hands in a gesture of peace. "Please, Brandon, Kinsey. I know this is unexpected, but I need to talk to both of you. It's important."Brandon crossed his arms, his jaw tight. "You've got five minutes. Make it quick."Cooper took a deep breath, his eyes meeting Kinsey’s. "I'm here to tell you the truth about Connor. He’s my son, Kinsey. Alexa and I... we were together."The words hung in the air like a bombshell. Kinsey’s knees buckled, and she stumbled back, leaning against the wall for support but Brandon was quick to help her. "What? Connor... your son?"
Olive paced back and forth in the living room, her eyes blazing with fury as she glared at her husband, Jonathan, who sat calmly on the couch. The tension in the room was palpable, a storm of emotions ready to burst.“How could you, Jonathan?” Olive’s voice was sharp, almost a hiss. “How could you not let me talk to Brandon when you met him? Do you even care about Blair? She’s our daughter, and she’s been rotting in jail with no bail for days now!”Jonathan sighed heavily, running a hand through his thinning hair. He looked exhausted, a man burdened with too many troubles. “Olive, it’s not that simple. Blair has committed serious crimes. Kidnapping, detaining, whipping, and attempting to murder Kinsey… She’s lucky she’s even alive.”Olive’s eyes filled with tears of frustration and anger. “I know she’s done wrong, but she’s our child! I can’t just sit here and do nothing. We need to beg Brandon to drop the charges. It’s the only way to get her out.”Jonathan shook his head, his expres
Kinsey lay awake, Brandon's words echoing in her mind. "Jealous" Was she jealous? She couldn't deny the pangs of hurt and anger that had surfaced when she saw Chelsea with Brandon, and the thought pissed her off.Another thing that's bothering her is Taylor's wedding. She had promised Taylor and Daniel that she would bring Brandon to their wedding, but her pride kept her from asking him. Her mind churned with conflicting emotions, preventing her from finding peace.Morning came too soon, and with it, a heavy sense of unresolved tension. Kinsey dragged herself out of bed, her eyes heavy from lack of sleep. Determined to resolve things, she decided to talk to Brandon about the wedding. She steeled herself and walked to their room, only to find it empty.Her heart sank a little. "Where could he be this early in the morning?" she muttered.As she headed to the dining room for breakfast with Connor, she felt a mixture of disappointment and anxiety. Sitting across from Connor, who was cheer
Kinsey stood among her colleagues, her emotions a turbulent mix of anger, hurt, and embarrassment. As Brandon introduced himself with his usual charm and confidence, her mind replayed the memory of Chelsea in the elevator, each repetition stoking her resentment.Brandon tried to catch her eye, his smile warm and inviting, but she turned away, her face a mask of indifference. Internally, she was seething.The memory of Chelsea's face haunted her. "I’m visiting a friend on the top floor," Chelsea had said, the implication clear. Kinsey had been so naive, so stupid to trust Brandon, to confess her feelings to him. She felt a deep sense of betrayal and embarrassment.Kinsey felt insecure in every way possible. Chelsea is more fitting for Brandon. They match in status, in every way that counts. Unlike her, poor and stupid, abandoned by her own family.As Brandon spoke to the employees, detailing his vision for the company and his plans for the future, Ki