A month had passed since my father's passing, and just when I thought life couldn't throw any more surprises my way, Elijah dropped a bombshell on me."You will be the new CEO of Monte Verde Corporation ," he announced, a smile playing on his lips.My eyes widened in disbelief. Was he serious or was he just messing with me?"Are you joking, sweetheart?" I asked, unable to hide my skepticism.He shook his head, his smile unwavering. "I'm not kidding, Samantha. You deserve this opportunity. You've proven yourself time and time again."I couldn't fathom accepting such a role. How could I become the CEO of a company I had never even worked for?"I can't accept this. I'm sorry, but I don't deserve it," I declined, my voice filled with uncertainty.Elijah's expression turned serious as he explained, "You can't refuse this. It's not just an offer, it's a provision in Zeus Damian's will. We have to honor his wishes. This is legally binding, granting you ownership of all his assets."He turned
Elijah burst into my office, catching me off guard as tears streamed down my face once again. "Samantha, you can't let yourself be consumed by this all day," Elijah said firmly, his concern evident in his voice. "Please, take a moment to compose yourself. Your father wouldn't want to see you like this," he urged, his words filled with compassion. I poured out my heart to him, sharing all my troubles, and he responded by pulling me into a tight embrace. "I'm here for you, Samantha. Trust me, things will get better," he reassured me, a warm smile gracing his face. "There's a time for everything," he added, his words carrying a sense of wisdom. His words brought a smile to my face, and somehow, I felt a glimmer of hope in what he said. "For now, focus on the company. Distract yourself and find solace in your work," he advised, his voice calm and soothing. "Don't let sadness consume you, because you deserve happiness," he said gently, his words resonating within me. "Honestly, I
"I have something to tell you,'"Elijah began, trying to keep my voice steady. "We're getting married."Marcus's eyebrows shot up in surprise. "What? That's great news! I'm so happy for both of you," a genuine smile spreading across his face.I could see the pain in his eyes, and it made me feel guilty. But i keep reminding myself how he mistreated me before."We've been together for a while now," ELijah explained, trying to sound nonchalant. 'We're really happy and we just decided to take the next step."Marcus's expression softened and he gave me a small smile. "Well, I'm happy for you both. You make a great couple."I couldn't help but feel a twinge of disappointment at his response. I had expected him to be angry or upset, but instead, he was genuinely happy for us. It made me realize that maybe he never loved me at all. But why did I get hurt?As I made my way towards my fiancee, Elijah, and my ex-husband Marcus were engrossed in conversation, I couldn't help but feel a sense of
I approached my son Marco with a heavy heart, my mind clouded with disappointment and anger after catching a glimpse of him with Sofia. Determined to address the situation, I swiftly made my way towards him, my voice filled with concern as I pulled him aside."Marco stay away from that woman!"As I confronted him, I noticed the shock on the face of the woman standing beside him. To my surprise, it wasn't Sofia at all. It was just a girl who happened to resemble her in hairstyle and body language.Feeling a pang of regret, I quickly apologized to the woman for my mistaken identity. "I'm truly sorry, Miss. I jumped to conclusions without knowing the truth. Please forgive me."She responded with understanding, assuring me that she was simply helping my son find me since he had been wandering around lately. Guilt washed over me as I realized the gravity of my hasty judgment.Turning my attention back to Marco, I could see the confusion in his eyes as he tried to comprehend why I had appro
I stared at Elijah, my mind racing with thoughts and fears. It felt as though the weight of the world was resting on my shoulders after he asked me a seemingly simple question."I don't know,"I finally responded, avoiding his gaze.But deep down, I did know. I knew exactly what was troubling me, but finding the right words to express it was a challenge. How could I possibly tell him that I wasn't ready for our wedding? Elijah had been my rock, my best friend, and my partner for the past years. We had weathered so many storms together, and I already loved him.However, as our wedding day approached, this nagging doubt and uncertainty refused to leave me. I didn't want to hurt him or ignite his anger. I knew he had been eagerly anticipating this day for so long, and I didn't want to shatter his dreams.But at the same time, I couldn't ignore my own emotions and pretend that everything was fine.“What's the matter?” Elijah's voice cut through my thoughts, bringing me back to the present
My heart skipped a beat as I heard the voice on the other end of the line. Atty. Chua, my divorce lawyer, was calling me. Instantly, my mind raced with questions. Had something gone wrong? Was there a problem with the settlement?Trying to steady my nerves, I asked, "Our divorce was finalized months ago. Is there an issue?"Atty. Chua's tone remained serious as he replied, "Well, that's what I wanted to discuss with you. I've been reviewing your cenomar, and it appears that you are still legally married to Mr. Marcus Johnson."My eyes widened in disbelief. How could this be? Marcus and I had filed a grueling divorce process, and I was certain it was all behind me."That can't be right. I signed the necessary paperwork. Are you sure there hasn't been a mistake?" I inquired, my voice trembling with anxiety."I'm sorry, Mrs.Johnson, but according to the records, your divorce was never finalized. There was a delay in processing the paperwork, and it seems that the final decree was never f
My disbelief was palpable as I listened to his words. Sitting across from me, he made an outrageous proposition."What?!" I exclaimed, my brows furrowing in disbelief.He trembled as he spoke, his voice filled with desperation."I'll only sign the divorce papers if you agree to stay here with me and our son, pretending that we are a happy family."My jaw dropped in shock. This was not the conversation I had anticipated. I had come here hoping for closure, to finally move on from our failed marriage. But now, he was suggesting something entirely unexpected.A mix of emotions swirled within me - confusion, anger, and sadness battled for dominance. How could he even think I would agree to such a ludicrous idea? After everything I had endured with him, how could he expect me to play the role of a contented family?"Marcus, what on earth are you talking about?" I asked, struggling to maintain composure."We both know our marriage is over. Why would you want us to pretend otherwise?"Avoidi
He declared, "I allow you to give him with what he wants."As I sat across from Elijah, gazing into his eyes, I couldn't help but marvel at his unwavering commitment."Are you absolutely certain about this?" I asked, my voice filled with both gratitude and concern.Elijah let out a deep sigh, his hand reaching out to hold mine, offering a comforting squeeze."I understand that it won't be easy, but if it means your ex-husband finally signs those divorce papers and we can begin our new life together, then I'm more than willing to endure it."Guilt washed over me, knowing that it was my past mistakes that had led us to this complicated situation."Just negotiate with him," Marcus had suggested, but it was Elijah who had stepped up, showing incredible understanding and compassion.I embraced him tightly, expressing my gratitude for his understanding. "I can't wait for the day we can finally get married," he whispered, his voice filled with hope."Thank you, my love," I whispered back, ov
After days had gone by, Marcus had fully recovered from the car accident. Samantha's promise to stand by him had filled him with a sense of warmth and comfort. She had vowed to never believe Elijah's lies again, after he had cunningly framed Marcus and made him believe he was the father of Sofia's child. This revelation had caused Samantha and Marcus to break up, but now they both realized that Sofia and Elijah had manipulated their lives out of an unhealthy obsession.One evening, as Marcus and Samantha sat together in their old house, the doorbell rang. Samantha got up to answer it, and when she opened the door, she was met with the sight of Elijah standing on the doorstep.“What do you want?” Samantha asked, frowning.“I need to talk to you,” Elijah said, his voice filled with desperation.“There's nothing to talk about,” Samantha replied.“You've already caused enough damage.”“Please, just give me a chance to explain,” Elijah pleaded.Samantha hesitated, her eyes fixed on Elijah
AUTHOR’S POVSamantha's face twisted in a mix of confusion and anger as she stormed out of bed towards the door, her heart pounding with emotion. When she laid eyes on Sofia, a sharp word escaped her lips."What brings you here, Sofia?"she demanded, her tone dripping with frustration.Sofia met her gaze, her eyes betraying a sense of remorse."I came to talk to Marcus," she murmured softly."I know what went down."Samantha's anger flared even more."Why are you even here?" she pressed, her voice rising."You know exactly why. You and Elijah orchestrated that whole mess, making Marcus think he cheated on me and got you pregnant. How could you do something like that?"Sofia's gaze dropped, tears welling up."I'm truly sorry, Samantha," she whispered, her voice trembling."None of this was supposed to happen. Elijah and I just wanted to split you and Marcus up. We never imagined it would spiral out of control like this. I never wanted to cause you or Marcus any pain."As Samantha absorb
As I diced onions for dinner, my thoughts drifted to the day's events. The presentation went smoothly, and I couldn't wait to celebrate with Elijah over a delicious meal. The scent of garlic cooking promised a tasty dinner.Just as I grabbed the salt, my phone rang, interrupting my focus. The unknown number made me pause, expecting a sales call. But a gut feeling urged me to answer.“Hello?”I answered cautiously.“Is this Mr. Johnson’s wife ?” a woman's voice inquired urgently.“Marcus Johnson?” I clarified, feeling a sudden unease.“Yes. I'm calling from Mercy Hospital. Your husband, Marcus Johnson, was in a car accident and is in critical condition.”The news hit me like a ton of bricks. 'What?' I gasped, barely able to speak. “Marcus?”“Yes, Ms. Johnson. He's in the ER with serious injuries. We stabilized him, but he needs surgery.”Tears welled up as panic set in. 'I'll be there,' I managed to say, my hands trembling.“Third floor operating room. Come to the front desk,” the nurse
As the sun's rays gently filtered through the curtains, the room was bathed in a comforting warmth. Slowly awakening from my slumber, I couldn't shake off the heaviness in my chest. The absence of my son, Marco, was a constant ache that lingered within me. However, today was a new day, and I was determined to mend things with Sofia.Quietly slipping out of bed, I made my way to the kitchen, where the enticing aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air. Sofia was already there, her lustrous dark hair flowing over her shoulders as she poured herself a cup."Good morning," I greeted her softly, stepping closer.She turned towards me, her eyes reflecting a mix of concern and warmth."Good morning, Marcus.""I've prepared breakfast," I announced, motioning towards the table."I hope you have an appetite."A smile graced Sofia's lips. "That's incredibly considerate of you."We took our seats at the table, and I observed her as she savored her meal, her eyes gleaming with pure satisfactio
1 month laterAs we arrived at our new home nestled in a charming countryside town, a mix of emotions flooded my heart. I had taken a leap of faith, leaving behind my painful past to embrace a fresh start in this unfamiliar land, accompanied by Elijah and my son.I couldn't help but notice a change in Marco's demeanor - a distant gaze and a loss of appetite. As he stepped out of the car, his small hand reaching for Elijah's, a wave of concern washed over me, gnawing at my thoughts."Are you alright, my love?" I asked, gently running my fingers through his hair.He looked up at me, his eyes holding a glimmer of sadness."I miss Daddy Marcus," he whispered.My heart sank at his words."I understand, sweetheart," I replied, trying to offer reassurance."But remember, Daddy will come to visit us soon, alright?" I fibbed, hoping to ease his longing.Marco's slow nod indicated that my attempt to console him had fallen short. Unloading the car, the contrast between our new home and the one
SAMANTHA POVFrom my veranda, I observed Marcus's car starting up outside the gate. A pang of envy hit me when I remembered he was staying at Sofia's place.Feeling bitter, I walked to my son Marco's room. He was sitting at his desk, deep in thought."Marco, honey," I started, "Did your daddy leave already? Are you finished playing?"Looking at me with his innocent eyes, Marco replied, "Yes, Mom. Mommy Sofia is sick in the hospital. That's why Daddy had to go."I was taken aback by a sudden wave of astonishment. "In the hospital? Why? What happened?"Marco nonchalantly shrugged his shoulders. "I have no idea," he replied."Daddy didn't give me any details. But he assured me he'll be back soon."The gravity of the news hit me like a ton of bricks. Sofia, in the hospital? What could have transpired? Could it be a grave matter? Countless thoughts raced through my mind. Is the baby safe and sound?With a hint of uncertainty, Marco added, "He promised to call me later."The days stretched
As I hunched down, fingertips brushing against the edge of Marco's bed, the muted chuckles of my son resonated in the room, a melody of happiness in our modest abode."Marco!" I shouted, excitement coursing through me as I awaited his reply.The game of Marco Polo commenced, each call and response a ballet between father and son, a fleeting moment of joy amidst life's chaos.Suddenly, My phone buzzed persistently in my pocket.“Hello, who’s this?”I inquired."Mr.Johnson?" The voice on the other end was composed, yet tinged with urgency."This is Doctor Thompson from St. Michael’s Hospital. I’m calling about your wife, Sofia."Dread twisted in my stomach, a frigid wave of fear washing over me as I prepared for the worst."She’s not my wife but what happened? Is she okay?" I demanded, my voice betraying the turmoil within."She’s in the hospital. Your baby is unstable now," Doctor Nurse Thompson explained."Sofia was brought in a short while ago. We’re still evaluating her condition, bu
And now, as I watched Marco cry in anguish, I questioned whether it was right to uproot his life just to keep him away from his father. I’m so very confused at those times, torn between my anger and resentment towards Marcus and love for my son.Marcus had no right to be Marco's father after he impregnated Sofia. The words echoed in my mind, a bitter reminder of the pain and betrayal that had torn our family apart.I trusted him so much that he won’t going to cheat but he betrayed that trust, destroying everything we had built together.But even as I grappled with my anger and resentment, a part of me couldn't help but wonder if forgiveness was possible. Could I ever find it in my heart to forgive Marcus for his indiscretions? Could I let go of the pain and anger that had consumed me for so long, and move forward with my life?"It's okay, baby," I murmured, my voice trembling with emotion. "We'll figure this out together, I promise."Marco looked up at me with tear-filled eyes, his sm
Elijah's concern lingered in the air, weighing heavily on my mind as I sat at the migration office, diligently completing the necessary paperwork for myself, Marco, and Elijah. The pen felt like a burden in my hand, each stroke of ink a testament to the life-altering decision I was making.Leaning against the counter, Elijah observed me with a mixture of worry and curiosity. His voice pierced through the silence, cutting through my thoughts like a sharp knife."Are you absolutely certain about this, Sam?"His question hung in the air, laden with implications. Was I truly sure? It was a question that had plagued me for the past week, ever since I discovered that Marcus had impregnated Sofia. I couldn't bear the thought of him being near Marco while harboring a child with another woman."Yes, Elijah. I am sure," I responded, my voice unwavering despite the uncertainty that swirled within me."This is something I need. It's something we all need."I could see the worry etched on Elijah's