As I sat in the passenger seat of Elijah's car, the exhaustion from the long day at work weighed heavily on me. We had just attended a company event together, and what was supposed to be a fun evening turned out to be quite stressful. All I wanted now was to kick off my heels and unwind.Breaking the silence in the car, Elijah turned to me and asked, "How was your day, love?"Letting out a sigh, I replied, "You know how these events can be. Long and draining."Elijah chuckled, his eyes filled with admiration. "But you looked absolutely stunning tonight. I'm sure everyone was captivated by you."His compliment made me blush, and I couldn't help but smile. "Stop it, you're making me blush."Reaching over, Elijah gently squeezed my hand. "I can't help but be in awe of my beautiful fiancée."Feeling grateful for his love and support, I smiled at him. However, a pang of guilt washed over me as I thought about the mistake I had made with Marcus. Every time I looked at Elijah, the guilt weig
As we ventured into the next exhibit, where the captivating bird show was about to begin, I couldn't help but notice a remarkable change in Marcus. He had shed his inhibitions and was wholeheartedly embracing the experience. With enthusiasm, he eagerly pointed out various animals to Marco, sharing intriguing facts about each one. In that moment, it felt as though we had been transported back to a time when our family was filled with happiness and unity. It evoked a sense of nostalgia for the cherished memories we had before our marriage took a tumultuous turn."Mommy, that was absolutely amazing!" Marco exclaimed, his face beaming with delight."Yes, my dear," I replied, a genuine smile gracing my lips."Perhaps, after this, we can head to the lion king," Marcus suggested, his voice filled with anticipation.As we arrived at the lion enclosure, I couldn't believe how much fun I was having with Marcus. We were laughing, cracking jokes, and playfully teasing each other, which was a star
As I read the message, my jaw dropped in shock. How could my fiancé ask another woman out to dinner when I clearly mentioned I needed some rest? And why Hannah of all people?I swiftly typed a response, my hands trembling with frustration. "Why are you planning to dine with Hannah? I thought we agreed on a peaceful evening at home." I pressed send and eagerly awaited Elijah's reply.My phone buzzed once more after a few seconds."I understand you're exhausted, but Hannah is a valued client. Strengthening our professional relationship with her is important. I assure you, it's purely business."I didn't want to come off as a possessive and insecure partner. I truly wanted to believe in Elijah and his loyalty.With a forced smile, I assured him, "Alright, I trust you. Enjoy your meal."Setting my phone aside, I couldn't help but dwell on the situation. Why did Elijah have to invite Hannah? Couldn't he have picked a male friend instead? Despite my uneasiness, I tried to push those thought
My jaw dropped in disbelief as Elijah let out a hearty chuckle. He leaned in closer and began to unravel the mystery behind his connection with Hannah's father."You see," he began, "Hannah's father and I go way back. He's been a close friend of mine for years, and he genuinely believes in our company."Though his explanation eased some of my suspicions, I couldn't help but feel a twinge of doubt lingering in the depths of my mind. Elijah sensed my unease and gently grasped my hand, his eyes filled with sincerity.Are you absolutely certain that your relationship with Hannah is purely business?" I inquired, casting doubt on him."What are you implying? Do you doubt me?" he questioned."I'm not sure what to believe anymore. I can't help but wonder why she decided to invest millions in the company again. Are you really that persuasive to her?" I probed."No, it's simply a wise investment in our company and she reaps the benefits," Elijah explained."Alright," I responded curtly."Sweet
I breathed a sigh of relief as I glanced over, thankful that it was simply a result of my son's typical four-year-old energy."What's going on?"I inquired, making an effort to conceal any frustration in my tone."He accidentally tipped over his toy chest, but he's okay," Betty responded, her eyes filled with concern.I let out a laugh and tousled Marco's hair, "You really scared me for a moment there, buddy. Let's tidy up this mess, alright?"Marco flashed me a mischievous grin, his bright blue eyes sparkling. "Sure thing, Mommy!"As we gathered the toys strewn across the room, I couldn't help but be amazed at how fast my little boy was maturing. It seemed like only yesterday he was a tiny baby in my arms, and now he was an inquisitive and daring young lad."Mom, can we go to the park now?" Marco asked eagerly.Checking the time, I noticed it was still early in the day. A visit to the park sounded like a wonderful idea to kick off our morning. "Of course, we can go after we have break
"It's Hannah,"Elijah responded with smile.I inhaled deeply, attempting to banish those pessimistic thoughts from my mind. Elijah's rendezvous with Hannah was strictly professional, I reassured myself. Yet, a tiny fraction of me couldn't shake off a hint of envy.However, I refused to let those feelings spoil our day, so I plastered on a smile and remarked, "I wish you success in your meeting with Hannah."Elijah flashed me a comforting grin and leaned closer, planting a swift peck on my lips. "No need to fret, it's just a brief gathering."I observed the car departing, carrying Elijah along. Letting out a sigh, I shifted my focus back to the lovely flowers in my grasp. A delightful blend of lilies and roses, my favorites.Lost in contemplation, I failed to see Sofia's car approaching until her voice brought me back to reality."Marcus?" she called out, her voice laced with astonishment.I pivoted to meet her gaze, only to find her stepping out of the car and striding towards Marcus.
My mind was in a whirlwind of disbelief. How could this be happening? Our wedding was just around the corner, and now this. I rushed downstairs, my heart pounding, only to find Marcus sitting in front of the TV, clearly taken aback by my sudden appearance. "Where have you been? It's late," he exclaimed. "Elijah had an accident," I managed to say, my voice trembling with fear. "What? Which hospital? I'll come with you!" he exclaimed, concern etched on his face. "But Marco needs you more," I insisted. "Betty will take care of him," he assured me. Without wasting another moment, we hurriedly got into the car and made our way to the hospital. As we drove, my mind was consumed with worry for Elijah. Finally, we arrived and I dashed towards the entrance, desperately searching for answers. I approached the nurse station, my voice filled with urgency. "I'm looking for Elijah Carter!" I exclaimed. "Room 101, ma'am," the nurse replied calmly. I wasted no time and rushed towards his ro
My anger simmered as I watched Marcus seemingly happy in the presence of his comatose fiancé. However, his response caught me off guard. With a chuckle and a shake of his head, he revealed his true intentions."No, Sam. I just wanted to lighten your load a bit. And I know how much you adore flowers."A wave of guilt washed over me, and I let out a heavy sigh."I'm sorry, Marcus. It's just... everything feels overwhelming. I don't know if I can handle it all."Understanding filled Marcus's eyes as he spoke gently, "I understand, Sam. But you're stronger than you realize. You've faced countless challenges before and emerged even stronger. You can get through this."His words brought comfort, and deep down, I knew he was right. I had to summon my strength for Elijah's sake.Marcus's demeanor shifted to a more solemn tone."While I may not be obligated to you, I still have genuine concern for you, Sam. And I also care deeply for Elijah. He's like a second father to Marco, and I'll do ever
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