(Anastasia's POV)"My apologies for the Chairman's decision but we will never continue this project." Disappointment and haze plastered on each of their faces. Even though I, was heartbroken by my grandfather's conclusion, he never looks to the effort, he focus on the outcome. If he does not like it, he calls it trash, but if it is to his liking, he will call it a great job.He never listens to his subordinate. Well, he is the Chairman, why would he listen to the people below him? He did not even listen to my reasoning, and I stopped myself from persuading him not to cancel the proposal we have."What happened, Madam?" Mina asked with a haze on her face.I deeply sigh, "He already knew that we were scammed. I won't blame any of you if ever someone in here tattles it to him but, let us just hope for the best.""Can you at least persuade him?" Elise muttered and I can sense the annoyance in her tone. Through my peripheral vision, Mina gives her an eye.I smiled, "He has the power, while
(Anastasia's POV)I was woken up by a tap on my leg, I yawned and shielded my eyes cause of the light coming in through the windows.The tap on my leg continued, and I could hear Lily's voice, one of our servants, calling my name as slowly regained consciousness."Good morning, madam Anastasia," she said, smiling at me.I did my normal yawning and moaning waking-up routine until finally, I was fully awake, I rubs my eyes to fully see Lily beside the bed wearing a worried face."Good morning, Lily. I'll skip breakfast today." I started, yawning."Uhmm, Madam, the wedding organizers have arrived for the wedding gown fitting." My eyes widened and abruptly jerk off the bed, I feel like Lily had just thrown freezing water on my face as blood started to drain my face."W-What?"A knock on the door resonated in my ears. Are they really here?Is it already the end of the week?Why was it so fast?Lily opened the door and heaps of wedding gowns, hung on different five clothing racks with whee
(Anastasia's POV)I gape up at the ceiling in deep thought. What the hell did I get myself into? My life is going to take a drastic turn from this point if I would not do something to prevent this so-called wedding.Enough thinking, I don't want to think anymore. I grab my grey sleeping robe and put it on without tying it. While walking to the bathroom, I tie my hair into a messy bun and wash my face.I just realized I haven't washed my face when the wedding organizers entered my room earlier. That was one embarrassing scene to start my day.Why did they have to walk inside just for the wedding gown fitting? Well, it's pretty obvious that it was Grandfather's doing.Sighing while staring at the mirror, I have had this thought running through my head since this morning.Should I run away with Caleb?I mean... I can still reach out to Alice through social media. She's into social media these days. That was possible. So, why not?Running to my bed and reach for the laptop on my bedside t
(Anastasia's POV)I waded in a pile of clothes, half-bohemian, half-sophisticated socialite. The former, I felt compelled to buy but never wore. Mother seemed quietly disapproving of anything yellow and nonconformist, and I took peace signs seriously.Until now, apparently, I packed colors brighter than the sun into a new medium size bag. I dressed the part in a loose blouse, checker-print cigarette pants, and white ankle boots. I caught my reflection in the mirror: an emotionless and distressed woman.On my way to the door, I stopped to unclasp my pearl necklace and dropped it into my jewelry box. Then, I wound up the ballerina, setting her on a lonely pirouette, before I tiptoed down the stairs at three in the early morning.Passing Mom's bedroom door, I tiptoed, trying to not create a single creek in the floor, to not wake her soul, and found out my escape plan.My nerves played havoc as I disabled the home alarm, expecting Lily and the other maids to hear the quiet beep and come ou
(Anastasia's POV)Caleb check in another hotel as he was not sure if the place I got was secure. We decided to stay here until when will we reached our plan.As soon as we entered the room. His lips pressed against mine, and his hands roamed my body before settling down on my lower back. My arms snaked around his neck, holding firmly before moving my lips to meet his rhythm. We were in sync.Following his lead, securing my legs around his toned waist. His arms hold on to me, keeping me locked into him while supporting my weight. He turned, pivoting us in the direction of the bedroom. A squeal slipped through my lips at the sudden movement, breaking the kiss. In turn, my grip on him firmed up even more, my fear of falling leading me to do so."Relax, love," he laughed before kicking close the door. I turned my head to assess the room. It was massive, with a king-size bed sitting in the middle. It had floor-to-ceiling windows but they were covered with a curtain. The furniture was modern
(Caleb's POV)Opening my eyes they instantly settled on the head of tangled hair laid upon my chest.I smiled at Anastasia's body, wrapped around mine. Her arms curled around my chest and our legs were intertwined.She wore my discarded dress shirt, but it rose to give me the perfect view of her round ass and silky legs. My dick hardened at the sight.I carefully maneuvered myself from underneath the woman on top of me. She let out a soft groan and instantly turned over cuddling up to the pillow next to her. Smiling at the sight, I went to my dresser to throw on some boxers and sweatpants. Looking back to Anastasia on the bed, I've longed for this feeling, waking up every day to the sight of her in front of me.I deeply sigh, remembering the night I got the call from Moris, the guy I appointed to watch Anastasia for a year in Italy, up until now.She escape from her mansion and headed straight to the airport. I was relieved that she decided to go to Miami, while I was investigating in
(Third Person POV)Anastasia woke up, she squinted her eyes when she felt someone tapping her arm, continually. She shielded her eyes using her arms, cause of the light coming in through the windows.The tap on her arm began again, and she could hear a familiar voice, as if she'd heard that voice before, calling her name as slowly regained consciousness.As Anastasia slowly began to regain consciousness. She finally fully opened her eyes, looking at the owner of the woman's voice. It's Caroline, the wedding organizer.Her brows creased, confused about where is she and why is she here.Her eyes wander around, confused at where she was sitting. She was inside the car, sitting in the long chair that she believe, it's a Limousine. Headache struck her again, and she was about to massage her temple when she finally noticed her arm, her clothes, her shoes... 'Why... Why am I wearing a wedding gown? Where's Caleb? Am I back in Italy?'All her memories started coming back to her slowly. The
--After two years-- (Anastasia's POV)It's my wedding day. Of course, Caleb is the groom.I'm getting married to Caleb for the second time, with our one-year-old angels, Lia and Leo. The Carter twins.I am already wearing my wedding gown which Aunt Susan and Ally helped me into and was currently retouching my makeup which I didn't find necessary but Ally insisted. And this time, I was wearing the Pnina Tornai A-line gown with a floral long sleeve, keyhole back, and long chiffon skirt with no slit in the middle. You don't know what face Caleb made when he saw me wearing the original Pnina Tornai gown, that's why I decide to alter it since he was also against the idea of me wearing a sexy dress."Oh my God, Ana! you look gorgeous!" Samantha exclaimed.Remember the girls from the camp, they're all here, showing their support for my big day.However, on my second happiest day, my family's presence is still a question to me. They're not answering any of my calls. Although Ally is here, A
THALIA I was panting and out of breath when I finally reached Damon's hotel room. I did my best to get here as fast as possible.We have not seen each other for two days and I'm worried he might ditch me again without a word.I pressed the doorbell, but still… no response.I'm starting to get panicked inside as I don't know what I should feel: anger or worry. He's really making me mad–The door suddenly opened and a man with wet hair, wearing only a bathrobe, leaned at the door with a frown.“Miss, what brings you here?” “I want to see my groom.”He scoffed. “You can… tomorrow and after tomorrow and for the rest of your life.”I smirk as I'm glad he's still alive and kicking my patience.“Why are you so hot right now?” I asked and tried to get inside his room but he blocked me.“I'm always hot as hell, baby.” His comment didn't impress me. I crossed my arms with a jaw clenched because he stopped me from getting in. “It's almost curfew. I'll take you back.” Curfew? What curfew?
THALIA“Are you able to look after her? Also, she is incredibly costly when it comes to food–”“I am not!” I yelled at Leander's tease. This is actually not the right time to open his mouth and spout nonsense.Damon is true to his words. He really went to see my family tonight just to ask for my hand.Even though I just graduated, I didn't stop him as I didn't want to let him go.“Manners.” Dad sternly said. “She doesn't have that either.” He continued, which made my jaw drop.“Dad!”“Don't yell in front of the food, sweetie.” This time, I gaze at my Mom with pleading eyes. Those two are– “If you can't handle her, feel free to return her.”I chuckled with disbelief at my mother's words. Why is my family like this? They are talking about my bad side instead of my good. Is that how painful it was for them to let me go and live with my man? They are hilarious–“I have too much patience when it comes to a child.”I gasped in surprise at Damon beside me. Is he thinking the same?“You–” I
THALIA Warm tears escalated at the back of my eyes as I held my breath for a second. Lots of words and thoughts came across me, but I didn't know how to react to this, I didn't know how to face him, and I didn't know how I would feel.Fury and longing lingered in my chest as I turned to him with tears welling up in my eyes.There… a man standing three feet away from me, staring at me intently, lovingly, as if he hadn’t left me and made me miss him for a month.He looked the same. “Damon…”His eyes and lips formed a smile before saying, “Congratulations.”I scoffed as I held back my tears.He's really something.“Thanks.” I blankly responded.At least I'm thankful he showed up today, or maybe he's just visiting me, then begone again for a month.As he sensed the intense stare I gave him, his smile faded, and he sighed. “Did you stop waiting?” He said almost a whisper. “What do you think?”He remained silent as his eyes locked on mine using his soft, day-dreamy look, which I hate th
THALIAAFTER A MONTH“After Michael Scott was found dead a week ago, Alfred Laverde was found dead in Whiteface Mountain in the town of Wilmington in Essex County.”Wilmington… That's where Cassie's accident occurred years ago.I avoided my eyes from the TV as my heart suddenly pounded frantically. Anyway, I continue tying the lace of my sandal while trying my best not to react as best as I can at the news.Since Frederick's father was found dead, I'm having a hard time forgetting that news. It breaks my heart to see Fred in tears while mourning for his deceased father.He actually didn't deserve it because he didn't actually kill anyone. Well, almost, and that's us. Still… Fred was a great friend and we noticed he's turning his back on us. Maybe he's blaming us for his loss.And now… my granduncle is also dead.I gaze at my mother, who doesn't even show any emotions while listening to the news. I don't feel the sorrow of losing him. He killed my grandfather, and to be honest, I shou
THALIAMy eyes began to well up with tears of conflicting feelings. Anger, worries, and longing came out all at once. He disappeared without a trace after saying he would come back, and God knows if he’s alive or not. He made me fucking worried for nothing!“Where were you?” That was the only thing I asked.“I have to take care of something–”“Then why did you have to vanish like that?” My voice cracked up in the end as I failed to control it.He avoided my eyes with guilt lingering all over his face. I don't know what to feel. But there's only one thing I could figure out after seeing him again.“To protect you from harm.”I firmly shut my eyes, tears streamed down my cheeks as his words were like hitting my chest with a knife. All he could think was to be my protector, whereas here I am thinking he might have chosen the others over me.Am I being too selfish?I wiped my face as I looked around. Good thing my bodyguards are outside the university. “What happened to Uncle Michae
THALIAI flinched as I was startled when my phone suddenly rang. I got up in bed, sighing as soon as I saw the time. It's almost three, but my eyes won't even close just a bit.My attention was switched to my phone, which still kept ringing. Who would call at this hour?I answered it without looking at the caller.“Wha–”“Thalia.”My brows furrowed at the familiar voice in the end. I checked the number, but it's unregistered.“Ca-Cassie?”“I'm sorry for barking at the wrong tree.” My jaw fell as soon as I confirmed it was her. I jump off the bed and gaze outside the window.“Where are you? Who's with you?” I desperately asked.However, I heard her chuckle and sighed deeply.“I intentionally took the chance that my mother used to work with Laverde and got in as their so-called illegitimate family member.”Her words left me baffled. So… she's not a real Laverde?“What's your reason?”“I have found evidence and took a chance to get closer to the enemy.”“Evidence of what?”“I only want
THALIAI inhale sharply as soon as I exit the building. My chest feels heavy and tightened, and I don't know how to cope with the pain deep inside of me.My fingers firmly curled around the handle of my handbag.It's just my hunch. It's just my guts. It's just my suspicion that it was Damon. But why don't I feel this suspicion is real?I hate it.My phone rang, and Damon's secretary was plastered on my screen.“How was it? Is it Damon?”“No.”Then why did that jerk get Damon's phone?I scratched my temple as I walked to my car. I entered my car with a frown.“Where did that robber find it?”“He said a woman came and sold the phone.”I paused and confusedly thought about who that woman could be.“Woman? Who?”“He couldn't recognize her because she covered almost her face.”Why do people love covering their faces? Scared of the sunburn or hiding from the authorities?Since it's a woman, there's no way Damon is in trouble. So, I don't give a fuck with that woman who stole Damon's phone a
THALIAMom and Dad quickly went to Paris last night. Leander and I left here in New York so that we wouldn't be embroiled in the quarrel with Laverde.It's my mother's family, so I'm afraid Mom will break down. I heard her screaming to Uncle Adam on the phone before they left. I sighed as I put down my spoon on the table. I glanced at Leander, who was also in deep thought in front of his breakfast.“What's gonna happen now?”“What else? Mom possibly cut her ties with them.” I tightly shut my eyes in frustration. Why are there traitors in our lives? “Are we just going to stay here and wait? Mom might break down.”Leander let out a frustrating sigh. “Dad is with her. Also, they won't let us tag along with them.”It's been two decades since that happened. Doesn't the grandfather's case have a statute of limitations? I wonder how they found evidence despite the long period since it happened. Anyway, if it really proves my granduncle was the suspect of my grandfather's death, I hope he
THALIAOne week.It's been one week since Damon went missing. I even helped in looking for him but to no avail. Not even the authorities could find Damon Kane. There's no body or anything that can lead to his whereabouts. It was as if he vanished into thin air.I was depressed and cried every night while I had this hope every day of finding him together with the authorities.My parents and Leander didn't complain about how I poured everything into this search and rescue. They can see through me how desperate I am just to find him and I was hoping he's alive and in a safe place.Uncle Michael, who caused all of this, was on the run and hiding somewhere. Where's his courage to kill off my father's happiness now? Maybe he was also the reason why Leander's secretary was abducted and injured. Leander poured his soul into finding her but was also abducted by Uncle Michael. As of now, I don't know why Leander's secretary was abducted.I refused to talk to Frederick. Not because I hate his