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.
Marcus recoiled, his eyes a mix of fury and pain. "Why would you betray me like this?" he demanded."I trusted you.""I know I let you down. But I had no other choice. I had to protect Marco.""Protect Marco?"Marcus inquired.After a brief pause, I mustered the courage to reveal the truth."Elijah is the mastermind of the kidnapping, Marcus,” I confessed."He's been threatening me. He promised harm to Marco one again if I didn't obey,"Marcus fell silent, his complexion turning ashen. "I should have know this," he murmured at last."I should have seen it coming.""No," I interjected, shaking my head."It's not your fault. Elijah is desperate. He's capable of anything."Marcus let out a sigh and embraced me tightly."I swear I won't allow him to harm you or Marco again," he assured me.The weight of my betrayal lingered in the air as I whispered to Marcus, my voice trembling."I'm really sorry. I didn't intend for it to happen. I was desperate. Elijah had Marco."Marcus had forgiven me
As I woke up, my body was sore and I noticed Elijah sleeping next to me without a shirt. Swiftly, I grabbed my clothes and put them on. Quietly, I opened the door and slipped out. My heart felt heavy as I drove back home. I felt incredibly foolish and vulnerable in that moment.Just a few moments ago, I made it back home. A huge sigh escaped my lips as soon as I pulled the car to a halt. My phone rang, but I just watched it ring until it stops. I got out of the car and went inside the house. The darkness immediately greeted me as I walked in, which only means that Betty had already put Marco to bed. With another sigh, I went upstairs and into his room. Indeed, he was already fast asleep when I entered."Hey, baby," I whispered as I caressed his forehead although I know he wouldn't hear me.I planted a soft kiss on his cheek and watched him sleep.The sight of him is enough to ease the heaviness in my chest. Had it not been for him, I would've given up a long time ago. "Samantha..."
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