Lily's POVI sat on the edge of the bed, looking into empty space. My mind was blank yet filled with noises. I kept hearing whispers, shouts but above all, the sound of a crying baby.Not just any baby, my baby!Hot tears rolled down my cheeks, blurring my vision. I had envisaged how I would take good care of my child, the joy of seeing a mini version of myself was the only thing I could think about.But now, it's all gone. Like the wind, in the twinkle of an eye. It hurt so much. I could still feel pangs of pain at the corners of my lower abdomen.I groaned as I clutched the bed covers with my hands. I was in pains, partially from the miscarriage but mainly from the heartbreak.That child was my hope, my happiness. When I remembered my father's will which stated that either Gina or I must have a child in order to secure the inheritance, I shed fresh tears.I was almost there. I remembered how Julian and I tried so hard to make this baby. Now, she's gone.Our hope was that we'd have t
Lily's POVAs I screamed out for help in my dream, my eyes flew open. I looked around the room in panic, the environment looking strange to me.I rose quietly from the floor and headed into the bathroom. As I removed my clothes, I turned on the shower faucet and allowed the warm water to pour on me.It was both refreshing and soothing. I remained there for a long time, wondering about the relevance of this dream I just had.When I finally came out of the bathroom, I slid into a loose fitting gown and lay down quietly on the bed. I don't know how long I remained in that position, but I soon drifted off to sleep. I was a bit subconscious when Julian came into my room and sat by my bedside.“Hey Baby. You look so tired. I wish there was anything I could do to help you out of this situation.” He took my hand in his, caressing my fingers.I was wide awake but I shut my eyes so that he would think I'm still sleeping. If only he would let go of my hand and go away. His presence makes me ups
Julian's POVIt's been three days since Lily returned from the hospital. She has been avoiding me for reasons known best to her. She has refused to leave her room nor interact with anyone.All she does each day is to lock herself up inside, sleeping and crying. She barely eats nor accepts any gestures from anyone. I was beginning to get worried about her because this is totally different from the Lily I got married to.I called the doctor to inform her of Lily's condition this past days.“Hello, Sir Julian. How is your wife, Lily doing?” The doctor asked.“Not good. I don't understand my wife at longer ever since she returned. She has been avoiding me as though I'm to blame for the incident that occured.” I said.“Have you tried speaking to her and know why she is avoiding you?” She asked.“She has refused to speak to anyone. Not even me. She locks herself inside her room most of the time. I'm really worried. Is this how she'll heal?” I scratched my head in utmost confusion.“I can't
Julian's POVLily sprag up, like one who was stung by an ant.“Excuse me? What the fuck do you mean by ‘all you do is sleep’?” She asked, anger creeping into her voice.Great. We are finally going to have this conversation.“Is that not what you do? You lie on bed, sleep, eat, bathe, rinse and repeat for three straight days now. How long do you plan to continue like this?” I insisted.“What else do you want me to be doing?” “You're not the first to loose a child. Your stepsister suffered a miscarriage too, remember? And the funniest part is that you orchestrated it. She was still strong enough to return from the hospital and keep living. But you…Oh my goodness.”“So you're comparing me to Gina now? Isn't it? Her body is different from mine in so many ways. Besides, why must you almost rub it on my face that I caused her miscarriage?”she asked.“Did you not?” I intercepted.“Julian, you're unbelievable. I didn't expect this from you.” she said, shaking her head.“Find something and ma
Gina's POVWhen I ended the call with Elena, I began to make preparations for my next plans. At first, I have to go to the clinic this time.I changed from my casual shirts into a long black gown and slid into my sandals.“Going somewhere? A date perhaps?” Alex asked, suddenly popping up at the door.“A date? Dressed like this? You amuse me often. Well, yeah, I have something that I need to attend to. It's quite urgent.” I said, picking my black handbag and sunglasses.“You need me to drive you to this important place?” Alex asked, coming closer to adjust my collar which I didn't remember to do.“No, I'll just take a cab.” I said. Alex wound his arms around my waist, running his hands towards the upper part of my body.“Honey, now is not the right time.” I said, expressing discomfort when he began to fondle with my boobs.“There is never a wrong time for some quick romance.” He said, kissing my neck.“Alex, please allow me to go. I'm running late. Don't worry, when I return, we'll hav
Elena's POV(That same evening)Since Monica came, she has been in the guest room with Lily. I brew a cup of coffee and was about to carry it into the room.I knocked, waiting for a response when Monica's harsh voice rang out, “who is it?” “It’s Elena. I have a cup of coffee for my lady.” She opened the door and I came inside. Lily looked worse than before. Her hair was unkept, her eyes puffy and red with dark circles beneath. Her face looked swollen and her cheekbones were so visible.“Here you go Ma'am.” She carried the saucer with shaky hands, barely taking a sip. Her hands were shaking so bad that before I could take the cup back from her hand, it fell and squashed on the floor.“What is wrong with you? You clumsy oaf! You can't even hold a cup well, do you want the shards to injure her?” Monica shouted, spanking my butt.I glared at her with anger before removing my face.“It wasn't my fault, Ma'am. I had wanted to…” I was still trying to explain but she interrupted me, almos
Elena's POV“So, Lily, what do you think led to your miscarriage? We need to get to the root of this so that it won't occur again. We also need to know if we must get rid of some people.” She said, not looking in my direction but something told me that she was referring to me.“You asked me not to involve myself with your conversation, remember? I choose to remain silent.” Lily said defiantly.Monica bent her head for a while, using her hand to ease out the wrinkles on her face.“You're just difficult, Lily.” Monica muttered.“Elena, you can go now. In the future, I'll still ask further questions. Mind you, I'm watching your every moves, even when you think I'm not.” She said to me, dismissively.“Okay, thank you Ma'am.” I got up from the stool and left quietly, still feeling Monica's gaze behind me.As I got back to my room, I began to ponder on the fast and easy way to handle this situation. I really need to speak to Gina about this. There is never a convenient time in this house
Elena's POV My heart was drumming relentlessly. They can't be suspecting me now, it's too early. Not when I haven't dealt with Monica or even Julian yet.“If she is still alive, why then have we not heard from her ever since? You know Gina, she always loves to show herself.” Lily said.“I have speculations. I'm not sure yet, but when I am, I'll tell you of my findings. For now, we need to go to the hospital for confirmation.” Monica reaffirmed.“Alright, let me get dressed. We have less than an hour left.” Lily said, I could hear her footsteps as she headed to the bathroom.“What hospital is that again? Where you were admitted?” Monica asked.“Johnson's Hospital at Fifth Avenue. The driver knows the place anyways, he'll just drive us to that place.” Lily answered.That was all I needed. I tiptoed back to my room and picked up my phone to inform Gina.“Hello Ma'am.” I whispered, my voice laced with urgency.“What's wrong again this time?” Gina asked.“Change of plans. They're heading
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