I stormed out of the conference room, my mind racing with frustration and disappointment. The meeting with the investors had not gone as well as I had hoped. The problems with our sales were becoming a major obstacle for our company, and I couldn't help but feel responsible for it.As I exited the building, the sense of defeat lingered. I had put in so much effort alongside Marcus to establish this company, and witnessing its struggles was disheartening. I needed a moment to clear my thoughts and devise a strategy for a turnaround.Before heading home, I decided to make a brief stop at my mansion. Changing into more casual attire and being in my own space always helped me think more clearly.Upon opening the door to my mansion, I was shocked to find Elijah in my living room. Anger surged within me."What are you doing here?"I snapped, my tone sharp and filled with irritation.Elijah rose to his feet, a smirk dancing on his lips. "Well, well, well, look who we have here. Samantha, my d
"Mommy, daddy, are you awake?"I heard Marco's voice from the other side of the door.I quickly nudged Marcus awake and whispered, "Quick, we need to get dressed. Marco is at the door."Marcus groaned and rubbed his eyes before getting up to put on some clothes. I quickly grabbed my robe and put it on, trying to cover up as much skin as I could. Just as we were both decent, Marcus opened the door to let Marco in."Good morning, mommy and daddy,"Marco said cheerfully as he walked into the room."Good morning, sweetheart,"I replied, trying to act as casual as possible."Did you guys sleep well?"he asked innocently.Marcus nodded in agreement, giving me a subtle smile.I blushed and quickly changed the subject. 'What do you feel like doing today, Marco?'"I want to go to the park!"he exclaimed, bouncing with excitement.I grinned at his enthusiasm. "That's a fantastic idea. We can have a picnic and play some games.""Yay!"Marco cheered, dashing out of the room to prepare.I breathed a sig
The next morning, I woke up early, my mind filled with thoughts of the tasks I had to accomplish at work. I was determined to rectify the situation and prove to everyone that I was more than just a scandalous figure in the public eye. As I prepared for the day ahead, a sense of dread and anxiety washed over me.The idea of facing my employees after the scandal was enough to make me want to hide away. However, I knew I had to confront the situation head-on.Upon arriving at the office, I was met with the usual hustle and bustle of employees going about their work. Ignoring the stares and whispers, I took a deep breath and made my way to my office. I could sense their judgmental eyes on me, but I refused to let it affect me. I had a job to do.Settling into my office, I began reviewing the reports and documents on my desk. It was evident that the company was in a downward spiral and significant changes were necessary.Upon realizing the issues that needed attention, I immediately began
As I woke up the next morning, a feeling of dread consumed my mind. I tried to push away thoughts of work and focus on being a mother to Marco. However, as a CEO, it was difficult to completely disconnect from my responsibilities. I headed to the kitchen to make breakfast.While flipping pancakes, my phone rang. I debated whether to answer, but decided to pick it up. It was my lawyer, Mr. Harper."Good morning, Ms.Monte Verde. I hope I'm not disturbing you," Mr. Harper said calmly.I couldn't believe it. This was the best news I had heard. But is it really true?Elijah even warned me last night that there's next step of his action to ruin my name. But I make myself believe that maybe Elijah changed his mind."That's great to hear. Please proceed with the settlement. I just want this to be over," I said, feeling a weight lifted off my shoulders."I will. I'll keep you updated on the progress. But for now, enjoy your day off and try not to think about work too much," Mr. Harper advised.
"Hey, Sam."Marcus voiced filled with worry."Hey, Marcus," I replied, trying to sound composed.Upon witnessing Elijah's televised apology, Marcus asked, "Are you okay?"I could tell he was struggling to keep his own anger in check."I'm alright," I lied."Just shocked that he would drag your name into this mess.""I get it. It's shameful. But don't let it get to you. You know the truth, and that's what matters," he reassured me.Feeling relieved, I let out a sigh and appreciated Marcus's support."Marcus, your support means the world to me. I am forever grateful for your love and constant presence in my life," he expressed sincerely.A wave of emotions washed over me, and I held back tears. Marcus's words served as a constant reminder of how lucky I was to have him by my side. I knew I could always count on him, no matter what.After we hung up, I sank into the couch, feeling emotionally drained. It was hard to believe that Elijah had the audacity to make such false accusations abou
I felt a sinking feeling in my chest as the color drained from my face. I couldn't grasp the words she was saying."What?!" I cried out."What's happening? Where's Marco, Betty?" Marcus asked anxiously."He was forced to get inside the Van by unknown mens!"Betty panicked.We rushed inside to look for the van. Marcus grabbed the phone and dialed 911, while I tried to compose myself and make sense of the situation."'What happened, Betty? How did this happen?" I asked, my voice shaking with fear.Betty took a deep breath and recounted all the information she had."As I approached the front door to see how Marco was doing while playing, I noticed a black van parked in the driveway. Suddenly, four men appeared, with one of them carrying a weapon. Without wasting any time, they forcefully took Marco and swiftly drove off in the van, leaving me stunned and unable to react."he stated.Her words struck me like a bolt from the blue. It felt like a never-ending nightmare, one that I couldn't e
The resounding reverberation of Elijah's laughter echoed relentlessly throughout his place, a heartless symphony that taunted my despair.When our gazes met, I no longer recognized the man I had once adored, only an unfamiliar figure consumed by malevolence and a distorted fixation."You're a devil!" I exclaimed."Please, my dear, do not test my patience any further," he whispered, his voice filled with a sinister undertone. "Like what I said If you wish to lay eyes on your son again, you will obey my every command."A surge of terror rushed through me as his words echoed in my mind. My precious son had been taken by this deranged man. The mere thought of losing him was unbearable."Alright, fine. I'll do whatever you want," I murmured, my voice quivering.Elijah leaned in closer, his breath warm against my skin."I want you back, Samantha. I want everything to return to how it was before."I recoiled in disgust. "That's impossible. I'm already engaged to Marcus!" I whispered, barel
I heard my phone ring suddenly. I took it out of my purse and saw Marcus's name on the screen."Hello?"I answered."Samantha,"Marcus said urgently. "Marco is home. He's safe."I gasped. "What?"I asked. "How?""I don't know," Marcus said. "He just showed up at the door a few minutes ago. He's okay, but he's a little shaken up."I felt a surge of relief wash over me. "Thank God," I said. "I'm on my way home now.""I'll see you,"Marcus said.I hung up the phone and looked at Elijah."You obeyed me so I give what you want. I told you I will mark my word always,"he grinned."Please Elijah stop bothering me and my family. Please don't do it again,"I begged."I will do what I want"he said firmly."You should,"he grinned.I took a deep breath and spoke," But I'll go ahead now,""Okay. Just Don't forget our agreement. You are only mine now!"he reminded me.As I drove home, I couldn't help but think about Marco.I pulled into my driveway and saw Marcus and Marco standing on the front porch.