Gina's POV
Julian's eyes locked onto mine, his expression a mix of shock, guilt, shame, and indifference. The woman's face turned toward me, her lips still locked on Julian's.
Lily.
My stepsister.
His hands were wrapped around Lily's waist, his fingers digging into her skin.
I felt like I'd been punched in the gut, unable to breathe. The air was sucked out of the room, leaving only a suffocating silence.
Lily's gaze sparkled with malice, her smile twisting into a cruel grin. Julian's face contorted, guilt and shame mixing with defiance.
My eyes burned, tears welling up, but I couldn't look away. My husband and my stepsister.
Together.
My world crumbled, shattered by the betrayal.
“Alex, why? What did I do to deserve this?” I asked with ashaky voice, refusing to allow the tears drop.
“Enough of the drama! I'm sick and tired of this charade. Julian has always been mine from the beginning. You were used just for the mean time and that time has expired.” Lily sneered.
I stared at them in disbelief, still trying to process what she had just said.
“Julian, are you not going to say anything?” I asked.
“I'm actually surprised to see you back so soon. It seems that the drug wasn't too strong in your coffee. You are lucky that you didn't bleed to death.” Lily said with a smirk.
I remembered Rachel immediately. Scanning the room for any sign of her, I was about to scream her name when Lily interrupted me.
“Don't bother to look for her. I dismissed her. Her time in this house is over. I paid her for carrying out the task swiftly.”
“You poisoned me. You connived with my maid to make me loose my baby!”
I charged towards her, landed a heavy slap on her face and began to pull her thick blonde hair, while screaming curses.
Several hands dragged me away from Lily, with Julian refraining me from behind.
“Let go of me, you Bastard. You connived with her too, didn't you? We just lost our baby! Yet, you have the guts to make out with a bitch!” I screamed on top of my voice, kicking frantically.
Julian released my hands and I slapped him almost immediately. If that is the only thing I can do to get this rage out of my chest.
He touched his left cheek bitterly before proceeding to show me the papers on the table.
“Sign this divorce papers, Gina. This marriage is over.” He said grimly.
“I will. But first, you must explain why you betrayed me like this.”
“It is simply to get you out of the way.” A voice rang out from behind and it was Monica, Lily's Mother, my stepmom.
“When your father died, his will stated that the house would go to either you or Lily, whoever has an heir first.
Did you really think that we would sit by and watch you have that baby peacefully and take all the inheritance to yourself?” Monica quizzed.
It all made sense now. They poisoned me just so that I wouldn't claim the inheritance.
“If you had told me that the money means so much to you, I would have left it for you, Lily. You didn't have to go extreme. Julian, why are you in support of this?”
“Enough of the questions, Gina. Just sign the papers and leave immediately. This is a cheque of one million dollars.
You can use it to help yourself out for the meantime till you secure another life for yourself. Consider it as my compensation and parting gift to you.”
Julian handed the cheque and divorce papers to me, avoiding my gaze.
With a firm resolve, I signed on all the papers and flinged them on the table.
“As for this, I don't need it. You can give it to beggars.” I said, tearing the cheque into shreds and throwing it on Alex like confetti.
“And take back your stinking ring!” I forced the shiny metal out of my middle finger and threw it on the glass table.
“Lana, go upstairs and get my bags. I'm leaving this place immediately.” I ordered, stomping out of the house.
As Lana brought my bags, I took one last look at the one place I have lived in for the past five years. My marriage with Julian had not always been blissful but I never complained.
Julian had been my childhood crush even though Lily had eyes on him. He loved me and we were both happy. But now, it seems that tables have turned.
I am Gina Steven, twenty - eight years old and I came from a polygamous home. My mother died from cancer when I was Ten shortly after she learnt of my father's extra marital affairs with Monica. Lily was just two years old then.
After my mom's death, Monica and Lily moved in to live with us.
Tears welled up in my eyes as I remembered the pains I have been through in the hands of my step family. I quickly wiped the tears, swearing under my breath to make them pay for this.
“Where are we headed, Ma'am?” Lana asked, shaking me out of my reverie.
“Lana, you are already relieved of your duties as my maid. I am no longer the woman of this household. Please you must not come with me.” I said, calmly.
“Ma'am, please don't dismiss me. I want to go with you. I have served you for years now and you have been so good to me. I can't leave you now, Ma. I can't remain here and serve those cruel people.” Lana pleaded.
“Alright, Lana. Let's go.”
The only destination I had in mind was my maternal home. My grandfather was still alive and strong. A smile crept on my lips as I remembered how happy he would be to see me.
I flagged down a cab right in front of me.
“Where are you headed, Ma'am?” The cab driver asked.
“Take us to Saxton Villa.”
“Ma’am, did you just say Saxton Villa? Is that not where the founders of “Saxton Luxury homes” live in? Will they allow us go in? Or do you know anyone there?” Lana asked.
“Don’t worry about that, Lana. My grandfather will welcome us with open arms.” I said with glee.
The cab glided through the city streets, carrying me away from the shattered remains of my marriage.
Finally, we turned onto a private drive, lined with towering hedges and ornate lamps. The cab wound through the manicured landscape, revealing Saxton Villa in all its glory.
The villa's front exterior shone with light-colored stone, decorated with curved arches and balconies. Sparkling chandeliers hung from the ceiling, shining colorful lights onto the driveway through tall windows.
A majestic fountain danced in the center of the circular drive, surrounded by impeccably groomed gardens.
Lana's eyes widened as we stepped out of the cab. "Ma'am, this is... breathtaking."
I smiled, memories of my childhood flooding back. "Welcome to Saxton Villa, Lana."
A guard approached, his eyes locked on mine. "Miss Gina, welcome home."
Lana's jaw dropped as the guard bowed slightly, his voice dripping with deference.
"Your grandfather's staff has been notified of your arrival. We've prepared your usual suite."
I nodded, accustomed to the luxury and respect.
Lana's gaze darted between the guard and me, her expression awestruck. "Ma'am, who...who are you?"
I smiled, a hint of mystery playing on my lips.
The guard's expression remained neutral, but his eyes flickered with understanding.
"Shall I escort you to your quarters, Miss Gina?" he asked.
I nodded, and he led us toward the villa's grand entrance.
As we stepped into the opulent foyer, Lana whispered, "I had no idea that you are related to such a wealthy family, Ma'am."
I smiled.
No one did.
Gina's POVI stepped into Grandpa Wilson's chambers, and his warm smile enveloped me. Six years had passed since I'd last seen him, but the sparkle in his eyes remained unchanged."Gina, my dear," he said, opening his arms.I rushed into his embrace, feeling a mix of joy and sadness. He was looking so frail; his once-strong shoulders now stooped, and his skin was pale and thin. I noticed the subtle signs of illness and age etched on his face. His movements were slower, his voice weaker."Grandpa," I whispered, tears pricking at the corners of my eyes.He held me at arm's length, examining my face. "You've grown more beautiful, Gina. But I see shadows under your eyes. What troubles you, child?"I took a deep breath, hesitant to burden him with my troubles. But something in his gaze reassured me."Julian and I...we're divorced," I said, the words still feeling foreign.His expression turned stern, but his eyes softened. "I'll deal with him. You're safe now."The familiar scent of old bo
Gina's POV My eyes widened, disbelieving."What?" I whispered, my voice barely audible.Mr. Jenkins nodded. "Yes, Gina. You are now the sole beneficiary of your grandfather's vast wealth and business empire."All of it? To me?I thought of the countless charities, the employees, the business partners... How could Grandfather leave it all to me?Lana's gasp echoed my shock."But...why?" I stammered.Mr. Jenkins consulted the will. "'To my beloved granddaughter, Gina, I leave my legacy, trusting she will continue my vision and make me proud.'"Tears welled up in my eyes. Grandfather's faith in me was overwhelming.The weight of responsibility settled upon me like a mantle.Saxton Enterprises. The mansions. The philanthropic endeavors.It was all mine now. I felt both honored and terrified.Mr. Jenkins handed me a folder. "The details are all here, Gina. Your grandfather's team will assist you in the transition."As I took the folder, a sense of purpose began to stir within me.Grandfat
Gina's POVOur kiss deepened, as Alex ran his hand through my hair, letting the full wavy length fall on my shoulders. My mind clicked, reality setting in at once. I pulled back from Alex, staring at him in both disbelief, shock and disgust.“I'm sorry. You…I…didn't…shouldn't have…Oh my God, what just happened?” I said, running my hands through my hair.“You're drunk? Why are you drinking?” He asked gently.“It's none of your business.” I breathed out, staggering to the door. I lost my balance for a moment and almost tripped but he gripped my arm carefully.“Be careful. You might injure yourself. Come on, let me help you.” He put his arm around my waist, pulling me close to his body as we walked out of the restroom until we were outside the building.His fresh scent of lavender filled my nostrils as we walked. I couldn't help but stare at his facial features. He is strikingly attractive.His sharp jawline could cut glass and his ever deep blue eyes seemed to bore into me. His lips…so
Gina's POVWe lay on separate beds on our supposed wedding night. I'm not even worried about that because I have no plans of falling in love with Alex.The only thing I need him to do is to act like we're madly in love whenever we are in public. In due time, Julian will find out about my new marriage. I intend to use Alex to get my revenge. While hatching plans in my head, I drifted off to sleep.The next morning, I woke up to my phone ringtone. It was Lawyer Jenkins.“Good day Ma'am. I'm sorry to interrupt your honeymoon. I thought it wise to come with the agreement papers today, so that you can sign the with your husband. Probably within the week, You'll be introduced to the Board of Directors at Saxton Empire as their new heiress. What do you think?”“We can do it all today. Come over to the house at once, before 10am. Fix the meeting with the Directors, by 12pm, we'll be with them. Thank you.” The call ended while I stretched lazily on the bed.“We're heading to the company this
Gina's POV I clasped my hand over my mouth in an attempt to stop myself from making a sound. Tomorrow night?Usual place?It's not like it mattered to me what he does at his spare time anyways. But I felt so infuriated and hurt gnawed deep down.Well, let's see if he will carry out his plans tomorrow night.I walked back to the living room, wearing the brightest smile and acting like nothing ever happened. “Mrs. Gina, how is everything going? Hope your marriage to Mr. Blackwood is not threatening your peace of mind?” Mr. Jenkins asked, after some minutes of awkward silence.“Not at all. We are coping just fine.” I replied curtly.“If you ever need someone to talk to, I'm here. I was a close friend of your grandfather. I'll be glad to assist you in any way that I can.” He said again.Hmmm. Since he is willing to assist in anyway…“I think I'll need your help with something. I need someone who will help me look into something. Can you refer me to anyone that is good in hacking and st
Gina's POVI took in a deep breath, closed my eyes for a second.The doors split open and I stood. A new surge of confidence overpowered me, then I began to stride inside. Slowly at first, then majestically.“Don't forget Regina; you're the boss here. They are your subjects.” Alex's voice ringed in my ear as I walked on.Bruno and other men walked behind me, with Lawyer Jenkins and Alexander coming behind.Walking up to the stage, I flashed a little smile for the camera. There were so many reporters as expected, taking as many photos as possible.I felt so important and impressed with myself.This is just the beginning, Regina.****When the noise died down, I gave my inaugural speech, one that I have been rehearsing for days.After taking pictures, it was time to go to the fourth floor where the meeting room was. This was where we would have our private meeting with the Board of Directors.Alex and I left first, heading to the elevator.“You did well. I'm impressed. It appears that a
Gina's POV Just before we arrived home, my phone beeped and it was an email from Daya. The young lady that Alex had been in touch with turned out to be “Antoniette Braxton.” Toni.“She is well known as Toni Braxton. I have attached her photos below. She is Alexander Blackwood’s girlfriend. There are several photos of the two of them which I have also attached.” I scanned through the texts, scrolled down to see the photos.She was a young brunette, apparently not more than 25 years old. She had a killer smile and her photos exuded the aura of a ‘sassy girl’.I downloaded the photos and saved them on my phone for evidence sake.*****We pulled up at the house and when we got down from the car, Alex extended his arm for me to hold but I ignored and walked past him.“Are you okay?” He asked, striding beside me.“Yes.”“I know that our displays of affection is meant only for the public eyes to see but at least, holding my hand is not a crime.” “Alex, I really don't wish to argue now. I
Gina's POVI watched him stiffen at my question. I still laid on his body, gently stroking his hair with a permanent smile on my lips.“What…why…what is this all about?” He stammered.“That's not the answer to my question Honey.” I cooed gently,“Gina, I have to get up. This appointment…” he tried to stand up, but I resisted him by pressing him back on the bed.“Relax. We're just having a friendly conversation. Don't try to run. So tell me…”“I don't know who you're talking about.”“I thought you'd say that. So I brought my phone. Thoughtful of me, isn't it?” I smiled brightly at him.“Too bad you had to lie about it. I thought we were supposed to tell each other nothing but the truth.” I said, feigning a frown.“Anyways, I have quite a few photos of the lovely time you spent with her. Care to see? I'll just show it to you.” The whole time I spoke, Alex kept staring at me in disbelief, his eyes widened with shock.I clicked on the photos on my phone gallery and he kept staring at the
Five years later, the estate is no longer just a retreat. It’s a sanctuary—a living, breathing testament to the resilience of love, family, and legacy. As I stand by the grand oak tree in the heart of Seraphina’s Garden, I can hear the laughter of children echoing through the estate. My daughter is among them, her golden curls bouncing with every step as she runs around with her friends, her infectious giggle carrying on the breeze.Seraphina. The little girl who was born during a storm and who now, in the light of day, flourishes as a beacon of joy and hope. She’s everything I ever dreamed of and more. Every day, she reminds me of the strength I had when I thought I had none. And every day, she teaches me that the future is always worth fighting for.I watch as Alex kneels on the grass, helping her with the butterfly she’s carefully cupping in her hands, showing her how to let it go, how to trust the world outside. His love for her is something more than I ever imagined. A father’s l
Gina's POV There’s something sacred about peace—not just the absence of chaos, but the quiet fullness of a life hard-earned. I used to wonder if I would ever know such a feeling. Now, sitting in the sun-drenched solarium with my daughter giggling in my lap and Alex stretched beside us on the chaise, I know I’ve found it.I’ve found home.And it didn’t come wrapped in the perfect package or with a roadmap. It came in storms and secrets, in compromise and conflict, in tear-streaked nights and breathtaking mornings. It came in the arms of a man I never expected to love. And in the eyes of a child who showed me how to live without fear again.That’s why I decided to write it all down.My story.Our story.At first, it started as therapy. I needed a way to untangle the knots left behind by everything that had happened—the contract marriage, Victor’s threats, the courtroom battles, Evelyn’s truth, and the secrets buried deep within the Saxton legacy. But the more I wrote, the more I realiz
Gina's POV We named her Seraphina.The moment I held her in my arms, I knew there was no other name that could ever fit. She was born from fire and softness, from struggle and grace. And as she blinked up at me with those curious hazel eyes, so much like mine yet startlingly like Alex’s, I felt my heart permanently tether to hers.“Seraphina,” I whispered against her soft cheek, brushing a kiss there. “You’re going to change everything.”****Weeks passed in a blur of midnight feedings, lullabies hummed through tired lips, and soft coos that echoed down the estate’s halls. Alex and I were exhausted, but blissfully so. Our world had narrowed to a singular, perfect focus—her.The estate, once a symbol of looming uncertainty and painful inheritance, had become our sanctuary. But I didn’t want it to be just ours. My grandfather’s name had been dragged through courtrooms and sullied by lies. I wanted something different—a legacy rooted in healing, not conflict.That’s how the idea for the
Gina's POV The nursery smelled like fresh paint and baby powder, soft sunlight streaming through the white lace curtains that fluttered slightly in the breeze. I sat on the rocking chair near the window, my hand resting over my growing belly, which had become more prominent with each passing week. I was just seven months along, and though I felt constantly tired and achy, I also felt an overwhelming sense of love swelling inside me—more than I thought was humanly possible.Alex had just left for a quick meeting with our lawyer to finalize some estate documents. Evelyn was downstairs preparing her herbal tea mix that she claimed would "bring me peace of mind and smooth sleep," and Lana was folding tiny baby clothes in the corner of the room. It was a quiet morning. Too quiet.I shifted in my seat, rubbing my belly as a sharp ache shot up my spine. I winced but brushed it off. Pregnancy was full of strange sensations—this had to be just one of them. But a few minutes later, the ache r
Gina's POV The courtroom was colder than I remembered, its marble walls echoing the low murmurs of conversation, the clicking of heels, the scratching of pens. I wasn’t physically there—I was still confined to my bed—but through the live stream set up on my bedside table, I watched everything unfold.Alex sat at the front beside our lawyer, composed and confident in his tailored navy suit. Beside him, Evelyn, dignified in a modest beige dress, clutched a worn leather folder tightly in her lap. Her hands trembled slightly, but her eyes held the strength of someone ready to face the ghosts of her past.I pulled the blanket tighter around me, my heart pounding. This was it.“Court is now in session,” the bailiff announced.I gripped the edge of my blanket. This wasn’t just about reclaiming the estate anymore. It was about reclaiming the truth—our family’s truth. It was about protecting our baby’s future from a man who had threatened everything we held dear.Victor sat across the room, a
Gina's POV The room was silent except for the steady ticking of the antique grandfather clock that stood tall near the window. I lay in bed, propped up with an array of soft pillows, my hands gently resting on my growing belly. The sun had barely risen, but I hadn’t slept. My mind buzzed with anxiety, thoughts turning in endless circles.Alex had been pacing the hallway since dawn, talking to lawyers and strategists, his voice hushed but urgent. I could feel the weight of our reality pressing down harder with each passing day. The threat Victor posed wasn’t just legal anymore—it was dangerous, personal. And with each letter from Evelyn, each scrap of evidence we uncovered, the stakes only grew.I had never imagined a world where my family’s legacy could turn into a battlefield, or where protecting my unborn child would mean playing dangerous games of deception and strategy.When Alex finally stepped into the bedroom, his face was pale but determined. His suit was pressed, his tie per
Gina’s POV The morning sunlight filtered gently through the gauzy curtains, wrapping the living room in a soft golden glow. The sound of waves crashing against the distant shoreline was like a lullaby to my anxious heart, and for the first time in days, I allowed myself to relax. I stretched slightly on the couch, my swollen belly cradled by pillows, and let my eyes drift lazily across the pages of the book I was reading.Lana sat just behind me, carefully running a wide-tooth comb through my tangled hair. She was gentle—always had been. Her hands worked through the knots in slow, practiced strokes, humming quietly as she did so. It reminded me of childhood days, when my mother would brush my hair and talk softly about her dreams and regrets. It brought a strange sense of comfort, even amidst the chaos of recent events.“Lana,” I murmured, closing my book and glancing over my shoulder, “would you mind getting me a glass of water?”“Of course,” she replied warmly, setting the comb dow
Alex's POV The courthouse smelled of polished wood, nerves, and freshly brewed coffee. A place where truth was supposed to hold weight—but truth, I’ve learned, is fragile in the face of men like Victor Wells.The judge’s voice echoed in the courtroom as the proceedings began, stern and unwavering. I sat at the front bench beside our attorney, Mr. Langdon, a seasoned man with sharp eyes and a mind like steel. Beside Victor, his legal team looked smug—too smug for someone who hadn’t even seen the real documentation yet.Gina should’ve been here with me. She would’ve sat tall and poised, even in fear. But the doctor’s orders had been clear: strict bed rest. No exceptions. Not when her life and our baby’s were on the line.Just the thought of her curled up at home in bed while this circus played out made my jaw tighten. I was here not just as a husband—but as her voice, her shield, her sword.Victor looked every bit the conman he was, wrapped in a tailored gray suit and arrogance. He sat
Gina's POV “He claims to be Martin’s son,” Evelyn said. “My grandson. Your cousin, Gina.”The room tilted slightly.“Claims? You're not sure?” Alex asked, cutting in.“That’s why he’s claiming the estate,” I said slowly. “Because he believes it’s rightfully his.”“Yes. But he doesn’t know the full truth. He doesn’t know what Wilson planned. And he certainly doesn’t know that I kept every letter. Every piece of proof.”“And yes, I'm not sure”, Evelyn continued, throwing us into further confusion.My son, Martin, never told me about his son. I know he had a child some years back but I never met him. Surprisingly, this Victor Wells, has the resemblance of Martin. I suggest you carry out a DNA test to be sure if he's from our lineage. That will give you all the answers that you need, because if he isn't, a court case wouldn't be necessary.’She slid a box across the table toward me. “It’s all here. Letters, photographs, even legal documents Wilson sent me but never filed. They’ll be enou