Julian's POVI got home after hours of waiting in the traffic. I was famished, and the only thing I needed was good food and sleep.I had gone to see the manager of Blackwood Industries for financial aid. I was already running short of funds in my business. My store was already on the brink of crumbling.Not to think of the fact that Lily is four weeks pregnant, an extra mouth to feed. Ever since things stated going badly in my finances, I have lost my sources of happiness.As I parket my rickety vehicle at the driveway, my mind drifted back to my ex-wife, Gina. If she was still my wife, I wonder if things would be any different.I wonder how she is faring now. Maybe she must have relocated because I have not seen her nor heard anything about her ever since our divorce, two months ago.The previous week, I had gone to Saxton Empire to seek an audience with the company manager but I was denied. Back when Mr. Wilson Saxton was alive as the Chairman, I had intended to run to him for fina
Chapter 31Julian's POVI woke up the next morning, feeling so drained and unwilling to get up. I had slept on an empty stomach because Lily refused to make dinner. She bought some food and ate alone in her room. At this point in my life, the only thing I need is money, lots of it.If Gina was here with me, at least she would offer emotional support. She wouldn't make me worry about it so much.I remembered back then when we were still courting, I had lost my job where I worked as a computer operator.I was so despondent because that was my only source of income. Gina stayed in my house for weeks, paying our bills, catering for our meals out of her own purse. There and then, I decided I was going to spend my life with her. She was so lovely and kind, never raised her voice at me. So many good things I remembered about Gina left me teary.Tears welled up in my eyes as I thought of how I had betrayed her. What was I even thinking? She must hate me so much now. She must think I'm a dev
Julian's POV“Just that? Is that why you are going to pay me any amount of money?” I was visibly bewildered. I was expecting her to ask for a bigger favor, not some stupid relationship issue.“It's not as simple as you think it is. The lady in question is wealthy even wealthier than I and my boyfriend put together. I believe she has the right connections too that will give her power.” She explained.“Well, that shouldn't be difficult. Besides, you have a lot of money, you've got the body and looks, why will you chasing a man desperately? Can't you just choose someone else?” I suggested but she glared at me.“No one else can fit into my life if not him. I love him with everything I have amd I'm not letting go of him, even if he is now married to someone else.” She said firmly.“He's even married? This doesn't make sense to me. I'm sure there are thousands of guys out there that will give up the world to have you.” I said.“It doesn't have to make sense to you, Julian. Just do as I say.
Gina's POVI sent for Lana and she came into my room seconds later. “Lana, I need your help with something very urgent.” I was still thinking of how best to carry out my plans. They said two heads are better than one, right?“Anything I can help with, Ma'am.” She replied, our eyes locking together.“I want to send someone to Julian. She'll offer all the help that I’ll need in bringing Julian and Lily to justice. Recommend someone.” I said.“You mean you need someone to act like a spy in their house?” She asked. Sensing the excitement in her voice, I rose from my seat and walked over to her.“Exactly! I haven't forgotten what they did to me. I plan to deal with them in ways they can't even imagine. I have been waiting patiently for moments like this.” I replied.“I thought you removed the idea of revenge from your mind. Oh, please, allow me to go! I'll kill that Lily with my bare hands.” Lana said firmly,“No, not you. You're very much useful to me here. I can't allow you to go there.
Julian's POV(A week later)Ever since the new house maid came, things had been a lot easier for us. Lily and I had been living blissfully, enjoying the money which Toni paid me.I was getting ready for work when Toni called. I was quite surprised because ever since that day, she hadn't said anything about the deal we had.“Hey, cousin, It's time.” She said, her voice laced with excitement.“Okay, so what do you need me to do?” I asked.“Our victim is going on a trip, I want her to be murdered on her way.” She said blankly.“Noted, but how do I come in? Surely you don't want me to kill her by myself, whoever this your victim is?” I asked impatiently.“Most times, I wonder if your head is empty. I need you to send men that will intercept her, the men will end her life instead. I need it to be a neat job, leave no traces. Of course, if you leave traces, it will be traced to only you.” She threatened.“But then, what if…” I was about to object but she cut in.“Don't forget our deal. I on
Gina's POVAs I pressed the elevator button to take me down to the last floor, I checked the time on my wristwatch and it was half past seven pm.I had just rounded the meeting with our associates and was about. The only thing on my mind was to go home, have a warm bath, eat good food and snuggle up in bed with the love of my life, Alex.The thought brought a little smile to my lips. I had several missed calls when I took a look at my phone. Five missed calls from Elena and three from Alex. I wonder why they were calling.I was so exhausted after how many hours of sitting and listening to talks. I dipped my phone back into my handbag, my mind trying to know why Elena called.Maybe she had information to pass to me concerning Julian or Lily. I'll call her when I get home, or maybe tomorrow morning. The elevator door opened up to the last floor and I stepped out. Bruno and the other guys were already waiting. After last handshakes and camera poses with other associates, I slid into t
Gina's POV“You don't have to apologise. You just saved my life. Thank you very much!” I said, hugging Simon impulsively.The smoke had almost cleared by now but then I saw a figure staggering from a distance.I waited patiently for the figure to show up and it turned out to be Bruno.“Bruno! You're safe!” I shrieked in gladness.“The other guys were shot and they died at the spot. I was lucky to escape alive. I'm glad that you're fine, Ma'am. I'm sorry that we have failed in protecting you.” Bruno went down on his knees before I could say a word.“You're injured already. Please get up. It's not your fault.” I walked over to him and helped him rise to his feet, carefully avoiding the injury on his arm.“Ma'am, we need to leave now. Most of your men are fatally ill. Let's take them to the hospital immediately so that they can get medical care.” One of Simon's men said.We got into the big black truck which they came with and drove off to the hospital.On our way to the hospital, Alex f
Gina's POVJulian! Again! The realization that Julian could be the one behind my attack tore me apart. Why would he try to kill me? After everything he did to me, to hurt me? After leaving me devastated? I was shaking from both anger, frustration and being heartbroken.Alex slung his arm over my shoulders when he noticed my shaky hands.“Alright, Thank you Elena. Goodnight.” I said, ending the call abruptly. When I dropped my phone, I broke down in tears.“All I ever did was love him. I loved Julian with my whole heart, Alex. I never treated him like trash, I was very loyal to him. That is my only offence.” I paused to catch my breath. This is how he has chosen to pay me back for everything. Not only did he betray me, he killed my child. Our child, Alex! Then he sent me away from his house. Alex, this is the height of it.” I wailed but Alex gripped me tighter as I shuddered against him.I cried for minutes which seemed like eternity until my head began to ache. I paused to clean th
Elena's POV I was packing my bags, my mind racing with thoughts of Asia and the new life that awaited me. But just as I was about to zip up my suitcase, my phone rang."Hello?" I answered, expecting it to be Gina."Hi, is this Elena?" a deep voice asked."Yes, it is. Who is this?""My name is Mark. I'm Gina's associate. She sent me to drive you to the airport."I nodded, even though he couldn't see me. "Okay, thanks. What time should I be ready?""How about we meet at the coffee shop on 5th street at 2 pm?" Mark suggested.I agreed, and we hung up. But as I continued packing, I couldn't shake off the feeling that something wasn't right. I had an ulterior motive, one that I couldn't reveal to Gina or Mark just yet.I finished packing, but instead of taking my suitcase with me, I left it behind. I dressed up in a sun hat and glasses, concealing my face. I made my way to the coffee shop, my heart racing with anticipation.When I arrived, Mark was already there, sitting in a black sedan.
Gina's POV I walked into my house, dropping my bag on the floor. I was exhausted from a long day at work. As I made my way to the kitchen to grab a glass of water, I remembered that I hadn't spoken to Elena in a while.I quickly grabbed my phone and dialed her number. She picked up on the second ring."Gina! Oh my god, it's so great to hear from you!" Elena exclaimed.I chuckled. "Hey, Elena. I'm sorry I haven't called you in a while. How have you been?""I've been good, Gina. But I've had some trouble," Elena said, her voice serious."What kind of trouble?" I asked, my instincts on high alert."Julian and his friends sent some men to capture me," Elena said, her voice shaking.I gritted my teeth. "Those bastards. I'm so sorry, Elena. Are you okay?""Yeah, I'm fine. I managed to escape," Elena said.I took a deep breath. "Elena, I think it's time for you to get out of the country. I want you to fly to Asia."There was a pause on the other end of the line. "Asia? But why, Gina?""Beca
Elena's POV Some Days Earlier***I trudged wearily back to my apartment, my arms laden with groceries from the market. It had been weeks since I'd last spoken to Gina, and I was starting to feel like a ghost, invisible and forgotten.After leaving Lily's house under Gina's instructions, I'd gone into hiding, always looking over my shoulder, waiting for the other shoe to drop. I'd rented a small apartment a few months ago, and it had become my refuge, my sanctuary.But I couldn't stay there all the time. I had to keep moving, had to keep changing my routine, just in case someone was watching. So, some nights I'd lodge in a hotel, paying cash and using a fake name.It was a lonely, isolating existence, but I knew it was necessary. I'd seen what Gina was capable of, and I knew that if she wanted to find me, she would.As I approached my apartment building, I noticed something that made my heart skip a beat. Two men, dressed in black and wearing masks, were snooping around the entrance.
Julian's POVI bent over and ripped the blindfold off the girl's face, my heart pounding. The dim light of the warehouse flickered over her tear-streaked cheeks, but as soon as I got a good look at her, my stomach twisted. It wasn’t Elena. Lily gasped beside me, her hand flying to her mouth. "Julian… this isn’t her."Monica, standing a few feet away, erupted into laughter. "You idiots," she scoffed, shaking her head. "You fools are always being deceived."My jaw clenched so tight I thought my teeth might crack. Rage surged through me like wildfire. I spun around and locked eyes with one of the men who had captured the girl. Without a second thought, I drove my fist into his face, feeling the satisfying crunch of bone against my knuckles. He staggered back, blood dripping from his nose. "You had one job," I snarled. "One fucking job! And you couldn’t even do that right."He groaned, holding his face, but I wasn’t done. I stepped forward, grabbing his shirt, yanking him close. "Go fin
Julian's POV The next evening, we got our confirmation. Bill’s men had eyes on Elena. She had just returned to the apartment after being out all day, and she was alone. “This is it,” Monica said, pacing excitedly. “We need to act now.” I glanced at Lily, but she was avoiding my gaze. “Bill’s men are in position,” I told them. “They can handle the grab. But once we have her, what’s next?” Monica grinned. “We make her talk. One way or another.” Lily shifted uncomfortably but said nothing. I nodded. “Alright. Let’s do this.” I made the call. Lily finally looked up, her eyes wide with unease. “Julian…” I reached for her hand, squeezing it gently. “Trust me.” She hesitated, then gave a small nod. I looked back at the message on my phone. Take her to the warehouse. We’ll be there soon.*******I paced the length of the warehouse, my shoes clicking against the cold concrete floor. The dim light barely illuminated the figure tied to the chair in the center of the ro
Gina's POV As Alex led me to the bedroom, I felt a sense of relief wash over me. The events of the past few days had been overwhelming, and I was grateful for the comfort and safety of Alex's arms.We stepped into the bathroom, and Alex turned on the shower, adjusting the temperature to just right. We stood under the warm water, letting it wash away the stresses of the day. Afterwards, Alex gently towel-dried my hair and applied a generous amount of hair oil, working it through my tangled locks with a gentle touch.As he combed out my hair, I felt my eyes grow heavy, the soothing motion lulling me into a state of relaxation. Alex helped me slide into my nightgown, his fingers brushing against my skin, sending shivers down my spine.We climbed into bed, and Alex wrapped his arms around me, holding me close. I felt safe, protected, and loved."Gina, I want you to promise me something," Alex said, his voice low and serious."What is it?" I asked, my voice barely above a whisper."I want
Gina's POV As the violins played a soft, romantic tune, Alex pulled me close, his arms wrapping securely around my waist. I let out a breathless laugh as he swayed us gently, our feet sinking slightly into the cool beach sand. “Dancing barefoot on the beach?” I teased, gazing up at him. “Who knew you were such a romantic?” He smirked. “You bring it out of me.” I shook my head, smiling. “I still can’t believe all of this. The dinner, the music, the stars…” I sighed, resting my head against his chest. “It’s perfect.” He pressed a kiss to my temple. “That’s all I wanted—for you to be happy.” I closed my eyes, letting the moment wash over me. The rhythmic crash of the waves, the warmth of Alex’s embrace, the feeling of being utterly and completely loved. It was everything. After what felt like forever, he pulled back slightly, his hand still gripping mine. “Come with me. There’s one more thing I want to show you.” I arched an eyebrow. “Another surprise?” He chuckled. “Tru
Gina’s POVAlex led me inside the penthouse, and the moment I stepped through the door, my breath hitched. It was stunning. Soft, golden lights illuminated the spacious living room, casting a warm glow over the polished marble floors. Floor-to-ceiling windows offered a breathtaking view of the ocean, the waves shimmering under the moonlight.A plush white sofa sat in the center of the room, surrounded by sleek modern furniture. In the corner, a grand piano rested near a collection of candles flickering gently, filling the air with a subtle vanilla scent. I turned to Alex, my eyes wide. “This place is incredible.” He grinned, watching my reaction. “I hoped you’d like it.” “Like it?” I spun in a slow circle, taking everything in. “Alex, it’s—” I shook my head, speechless. He walked up behind me, his hands resting gently on my waist. “Only the best for my wife.” A shiver ran through me at the way he said it. I turned in his arms, looking up at him. “You didn’t have to do
Gina’s POVAs the credits rolled on the screen, Alex stretched and turned to me with a mischievous glint in his eyes. “The night’s not over yet,” he said. I raised an eyebrow. “Oh? There’s more?” He smirked. “Of course. You didn’t think I’d settle for just dinner and a movie, did you?” I chuckled. “Honestly? I was already impressed.” “Well, prepare to be amazed.” He took my hand and led me back to the car, opening the door for me like a true gentleman. As I slid inside, he leaned in slightly, his lips brushing against my temple before he shut the door. The simple touch sent warmth rushing through me. When he got into the driver’s seat, he started the engine and turned to me. “Comfortable?” I nodded. “So where are we going?” He grinned. “Patience, my love.” With that, he pulled out of the parking lot and started driving. As we cruised along the countryside, the city lights faded behind us, replaced by open fields and the soft glow of the moon. The radio played sof