"What are you doing here, Rosa?" Grayson asked, pulling her up.
"Let her be. I invited her," Judah said, making everyone turn to him."It’s time Colton knew the truth." He pointed at Colton. "Rosa has been crushing on you since childhood. We all know it—except you, of course."Grayson lunged at Judah, but Roosevelt and Rosa held him back."What? Why can’t she date him? Is it because she’s your sister?" Judah challenged.The room fell into suffocating silence. The tension was thick. Only the heartbeat of both men could be heard as they stared at each other.Just then, the door opened.Andrea walked in, carrying a tray filled with drinks. She placed it on the table and stepped aside, waiting for further orders.Colton was shocked to see his wife working in the bar. His fists clenched. He didn’t know much about her, but he had never expected this."You should give your girlfriend a chance," Grayson urged.Colton carried Rosa to her car and called his driver. “Take her to the hospital and drop her home afterward,” he instructed. But Rosa wouldn’t have it. She stepped out of the car and grabbed Colton by the chest. “Please, don’t leave me. This... is...” she murmured before collapsing against him. “Rosa! Rosa!” Colton shook her repeatedly, but she didn’t respond. Without wasting any time, he quickly carried her back into the car and ordered the driver to take them to the hospital. Meanwhile, the men had stopped fighting and were about to check on Rosa when Steve received a text message from Colton. “What’s that? Why do you look so serious?” Roosevelt asked. “Rosa fainted. She’s been taken to the hospital,” Steve replied. “Why?” Judah asked, suddenly filled with regret. He wished he hadn’t called Rosa over—it was all his
Andrea froze. Deep down, she knew this wasn’t good news. Mr. Miller never called anyone into his office unless something was wrong. Panic gripped her as her mind raced through the events of the night. Was this about the fight and the broken glasses? Or was it about Rosa? Dread filled her—she couldn’t afford to lose this job. It was her only means of survival. “Sure,” she replied, following him to his office. As soon as she closed the door, Mr. Miller handed her an envelope. “What’s this?” she asked hesitantly. “This is your payoff check. It’ll cover your expenses for six months until you find another job.” Tears welled up in Andrea’s eyes. “Why is this happening? What did I do wrong?” she asked, her voice trembling. “This isn’t about the fight,” Mr. Miller reassured her. “Someone who knows about y
The next morning, Andrea got ready for school. Her lectures were becoming more intense as finals approached. Just as she was leaving the lecture hall, her phone beeped. It was an email notification. Andrea opened it—and her heart nearly stopped. The jewelry company had accepted her application! Not only that, but they had requested she come in for an interview at 3 PM. She checked the time—1 PM. She barely had two hours. Luckily, she had just finished her last lecture for the day. Hurrying home, she changed into something appropriate and rushed to the interview. At exactly 2: 52 PM, Andrea stepped into the company building. Just as Mr. Miller had described it, was newly purchased and had been transformed into a luxurious workspace. She could hardly believe a new company could look this grand. Two security guards stood at the entrance. She greeted them and walked into the vast reception hall, elegantly furnished with high-end décor and polished marble floors that reflected he
“Come on, let me show you your office,” Mr. Wilson said. Quickly, she stood and followed him. To her astonishment, her new office was even larger, more well-equipped, and more comfortable than Mr. Wilson’s. “What’s going on? Is this… my office?” she asked, still in disbelief. “It will be yours once you sign this document,” Wilson said, sliding a folder toward her. Andrea took the document and sat down. It was only a single page, outlining the company’s rules, working hours, benefits—including her salary—and a clause stating that she couldn’t leave the job for at least a year unless the company decided otherwise. She exhaled in relief. The terms were reasonable, and she had no intention of quitting anytime soon. Without hesitation, she signed. “Now it’s officially your office,” Wilson said, taking the document from her. “When do I start?” she asked eagerly. “Whenever you’d like.” “Would tomorrow be okay?” “That’s perfect.” Andrea could hardly contain her excitement. She didn
Steve stopped at the upscale Glandular Garden, where Colton lived, and parked the car. One of the security men took the boxes and carried them inside the villa. Andrea, still annoyed, looked at Colton.“What are we doing here? This, isn't your family house,” Andrea said, her irritation was evident.“If you want, we can go back to the family house. I'm sure Melissa would be glad to see you.”“Never mind." Andrea said in horror. The last thing she wants is to face Melissa and her terrible grandmother Veronica." But don't try anything stupid, or I'll leave the next minute.”“Then I won’t divorce you.”“You're impossible,” Andrea muttered before stepping out of the car.Steve chuckled. “I have a feeling Ms Thompson loves you,” he said.Love? No, she would never dare—not after what she’s been through with her ex-boyfriend. She only agreed to marry me because she wants stability, and once that's done, she’ll leave.Colton’s heart clenched at the thought. Andrea had been eager to move in wi
Later that evening, after dinner, Colton walked into her room, without a knock, Andrea was puzzled, is that how it would be, entering her space without even a knock.Andrea gaze cautiously lifts to his, and she watches as those dark brown irises become even darker. Something akin to amusement flashes through them like a bolt of lightning. The kind of amusement a cat has while playing with a mouse.He pulls his hand back. "Seeing as we'll have become a family, let's discuss our terms and conditions." Cotton’s thick sexy voice sounded into her ears.Yes there will be terms and conditions, she has almost forgot about it. So she nodded.But before she could take another breath, Colton’ hands grip hold of her bare shoulders, and she was tugged against his solid chest. She thought he would air kiss her cheeks, but instead his lips singed on her skin.Rich and woody with notes of spice, raw masculinity, mystery... and something edgy, his scent fills her nostrils.Probably the scent of citru
At Samantha Hospital, Andrea was anxiously waiting in the sonographer’s office, her fingers gently twisting the strap of her bag. The walls, which were painted a calming shade of blue, should have helped calm her nerves but it never did. It was an inviting backdrop for the emotions bubbling within her.After weeks of tracking, worrying, and hoping, she was finally here for yet another scan.Dr. Evans Hood, a kind-faced man in his late forties, welcomed her with a warm smile as he set to work with the ultrasound probe. Within a few minutes, he was done. He set down the probe and began to clean it up.“You’ve been monitoring your ovulation perfectly,” he said, his voice both gentle and encouraging as if celebrating her diligence. “ As you can see, your egg has ruptured, which means it’s ready for fertilization. If you meet your boyfriend within 24 hours, there’s a good chance you could conceive and probably have a son”A momentary wave of excitement washed over Andrea, pushing aside
The Rivers were among the influential families in Bloom Valley. Though they didn't belong to the great echelon of Hillsdale Town, they were still considered one of the wealthiest families among the Bloom Valley Citizens.A maid answered the door in no time, and after a brief greeting, she left the door open, allowing Andrea access to the house.Stepping into the Rivers' lavish living room, Andrea smiled, taking in the magnificent space.This wasn't her first time here, but each visit left her awestruck by the exotic décor. Most of the furnishings were imported from top-tier interior design companies outside the city, showcasing both wealth and taste.Andrea entered Anthony's room, and paused, her eyes fixed on his gorgeous figure. He stood by the window, shirtless, his handsome features illuminated by the soft afternoon light. Andrea's breath hitched, and for a moment, her thoughts strayed into forbidden territory. This was the first time she'd seen him like this, and the sight stirr
Later that evening, after dinner, Colton walked into her room, without a knock, Andrea was puzzled, is that how it would be, entering her space without even a knock.Andrea gaze cautiously lifts to his, and she watches as those dark brown irises become even darker. Something akin to amusement flashes through them like a bolt of lightning. The kind of amusement a cat has while playing with a mouse.He pulls his hand back. "Seeing as we'll have become a family, let's discuss our terms and conditions." Cotton’s thick sexy voice sounded into her ears.Yes there will be terms and conditions, she has almost forgot about it. So she nodded.But before she could take another breath, Colton’ hands grip hold of her bare shoulders, and she was tugged against his solid chest. She thought he would air kiss her cheeks, but instead his lips singed on her skin.Rich and woody with notes of spice, raw masculinity, mystery... and something edgy, his scent fills her nostrils.Probably the scent of citru
Steve stopped at the upscale Glandular Garden, where Colton lived, and parked the car. One of the security men took the boxes and carried them inside the villa. Andrea, still annoyed, looked at Colton.“What are we doing here? This, isn't your family house,” Andrea said, her irritation was evident.“If you want, we can go back to the family house. I'm sure Melissa would be glad to see you.”“Never mind." Andrea said in horror. The last thing she wants is to face Melissa and her terrible grandmother Veronica." But don't try anything stupid, or I'll leave the next minute.”“Then I won’t divorce you.”“You're impossible,” Andrea muttered before stepping out of the car.Steve chuckled. “I have a feeling Ms Thompson loves you,” he said.Love? No, she would never dare—not after what she’s been through with her ex-boyfriend. She only agreed to marry me because she wants stability, and once that's done, she’ll leave.Colton’s heart clenched at the thought. Andrea had been eager to move in wi
“Come on, let me show you your office,” Mr. Wilson said. Quickly, she stood and followed him. To her astonishment, her new office was even larger, more well-equipped, and more comfortable than Mr. Wilson’s. “What’s going on? Is this… my office?” she asked, still in disbelief. “It will be yours once you sign this document,” Wilson said, sliding a folder toward her. Andrea took the document and sat down. It was only a single page, outlining the company’s rules, working hours, benefits—including her salary—and a clause stating that she couldn’t leave the job for at least a year unless the company decided otherwise. She exhaled in relief. The terms were reasonable, and she had no intention of quitting anytime soon. Without hesitation, she signed. “Now it’s officially your office,” Wilson said, taking the document from her. “When do I start?” she asked eagerly. “Whenever you’d like.” “Would tomorrow be okay?” “That’s perfect.” Andrea could hardly contain her excitement. She didn
The next morning, Andrea got ready for school. Her lectures were becoming more intense as finals approached. Just as she was leaving the lecture hall, her phone beeped. It was an email notification. Andrea opened it—and her heart nearly stopped. The jewelry company had accepted her application! Not only that, but they had requested she come in for an interview at 3 PM. She checked the time—1 PM. She barely had two hours. Luckily, she had just finished her last lecture for the day. Hurrying home, she changed into something appropriate and rushed to the interview. At exactly 2: 52 PM, Andrea stepped into the company building. Just as Mr. Miller had described it, was newly purchased and had been transformed into a luxurious workspace. She could hardly believe a new company could look this grand. Two security guards stood at the entrance. She greeted them and walked into the vast reception hall, elegantly furnished with high-end décor and polished marble floors that reflected he
Andrea froze. Deep down, she knew this wasn’t good news. Mr. Miller never called anyone into his office unless something was wrong. Panic gripped her as her mind raced through the events of the night. Was this about the fight and the broken glasses? Or was it about Rosa? Dread filled her—she couldn’t afford to lose this job. It was her only means of survival. “Sure,” she replied, following him to his office. As soon as she closed the door, Mr. Miller handed her an envelope. “What’s this?” she asked hesitantly. “This is your payoff check. It’ll cover your expenses for six months until you find another job.” Tears welled up in Andrea’s eyes. “Why is this happening? What did I do wrong?” she asked, her voice trembling. “This isn’t about the fight,” Mr. Miller reassured her. “Someone who knows about y
Colton carried Rosa to her car and called his driver. “Take her to the hospital and drop her home afterward,” he instructed. But Rosa wouldn’t have it. She stepped out of the car and grabbed Colton by the chest. “Please, don’t leave me. This... is...” she murmured before collapsing against him. “Rosa! Rosa!” Colton shook her repeatedly, but she didn’t respond. Without wasting any time, he quickly carried her back into the car and ordered the driver to take them to the hospital. Meanwhile, the men had stopped fighting and were about to check on Rosa when Steve received a text message from Colton. “What’s that? Why do you look so serious?” Roosevelt asked. “Rosa fainted. She’s been taken to the hospital,” Steve replied. “Why?” Judah asked, suddenly filled with regret. He wished he hadn’t called Rosa over—it was all his
"What are you doing here, Rosa?" Grayson asked, pulling her up."Let her be. I invited her," Judah said, making everyone turn to him."It’s time Colton knew the truth." He pointed at Colton. "Rosa has been crushing on you since childhood. We all know it—except you, of course."Grayson lunged at Judah, but Roosevelt and Rosa held him back."What? Why can’t she date him? Is it because she’s your sister?" Judah challenged.The room fell into suffocating silence. The tension was thick. Only the heartbeat of both men could be heard as they stared at each other.Just then, the door opened.Andrea walked in, carrying a tray filled with drinks. She placed it on the table and stepped aside, waiting for further orders.Colton was shocked to see his wife working in the bar. His fists clenched. He didn’t know much about her, but he had never expected this."You should give your girlfriend a chance," Grayson urged.
"I'm sorry. I didn't know you were keeping it a secret," Steve mumbled, lowering his head. "Wait, wait. You actually have a girlfriend?" Judah asked, intrigued. "Don’t be shy, man. Talk to us," Grayson added. "Yes, he does. He is even m—" Steve began but stopped when Colton's icy stare silenced him. "I’m sorry," Steve muttered again. "Come on, we're all here. Colton won’t bite you. And if he tries to fire you, we’ll make sure he doesn’t get away with it," Roosevelt said. "And I’ll personally hire you," Judah added. "You?" Steve scoffed. "I’d rather stick with your cousin. Even though he’s hot-tempered, at least he’s not an asshole like you." The men burst into laughter. Judah was Colton's cousin from his mother’s side, so he hadn't been there when Colton introduced Andrea to his grandfather. None
The fifth man was Colton Hudson, the grandson of Charles Hudson, one of the billionaires of Halides Town. "Come on, Colton, don't be so serious. It's not my fault you made that stupid promise to your Grandpa last year. Did you really think he’d die before his 80th birthday?" Judah, Colton’s cousin, teased. Judah was the son of Colton’s aunt, Annabelle from his mother's side. The others burst into laughter, but Colton remained silent. He picked up his glass of wine and took a slow sip. He had no idea what he had been thinking when he made that useless promise to his grandfather, and now he was trapped with a woman he barely knew. Worse still, his grandfather wouldn’t stop asking about Andrea after the introduction. "Look, Colton, getting married isn’t that bad. Or do you want the old man to transfer everything to your stupid stepsister?" Grayson, Colton’s best friend, asked. None of them knew about hi