If Cara had been startled before, now she was completely numb. Jessica and...Chris?! No. It didn't make sense.
She straightened her posture after realizing she'd been standing there with her mouth opened like a log of wood. "Jessica? Chris?" Then she found her courage slowly coming back. Jessica had grabbed the bed spread and covered her body by now. "Jessica? Did he make you do it? Oh my goodness. Why didn't you come to me?" Out of nowhere, tears bursted from Cara's eyes. She had treated Jessica like a younger sister she never had as the lady was four years younger than her. But she was respectful and so damn caring. "Chris? How could you! Did you rape her! You bastard--" the rest of her words never got completed as Cara rushed down towards Chris and began hitting him as hard as she could. "She is only a child, you idiot! Even if you're drunk--how could you!" "Hey, stop this!" Jessica pushed Cara back with all her might. "Are you out of your mind?" "Shut up, Jessica." Anger rested in Cara's eyes. "This is not alright. Get dressed. We're leaving." She knew she was drunk, but now, her eyes were sharper than ever and the sluggishness in her had completely vanished. This was too much of a big news for her to still be drunk. "Stop embarrassing yourself, Cara. I love Chris." Jessica bursted out. Cara did not hear her. Actually, she wished she had not understood her clearly. "Did you hit your head somewhere? Have you lost all your senses that you'll speak to me in this shitty manner?" Cara shot back, but Jessica held her ground. "What are you gonna do? You're gonna kill me? I love Chris, and he loves me back. So what's the big deal with you?" Immediately Jessica spoke up, Cara landed her a big slap, and its impact sent the lady's face turning to the floor. Her jaw clenched as she felt her cheeks burning. "Have you lost your mind, Jessica? What nonsense is this??" Cara snapped. "Okay, stop this--" Chris was saying when he got lucky as his face felt the brush of Cara's palm across his face. If he had not pushed his head back a bit, he too would be feeling the burning face that Jessica felt. He gripped her hand tight as she launched another slap. "Hey, stop this!" "Fuck you, Chris? What the hell is this??" Cara roared out. "How dare you both take me for granted like this!" Jessica scoffed. "You're the one taking yourself for granted." "Excuse you?" Cara revealed the rage in her eyes freely. "It seems you've worn out the thunderous slap just now. Do you need another one?" It still vexed her so much that someone like Jessica would have the nerve to sleep with her husband! And still have the nerves to speak back at her like that. "Why do you act so angry now when this is what you've always wanted?" Jessica ignored her deadly gaze and went on. "You don't love Chris. Every moment we spend together, you use the time to complain about just how immature he acts. How he can never love you the way you want." "You will shut your bloody mouth up right now, Jessica, or else I swear I will--" "You'll what, Cara?" Chris shut back at her, startling her a while. "She's not really telling lies, you know? No matter what I do, I'll just never be enough for you. You complain over every little thing." Cara was highly frustrated that her voice shot high up as she tried to defend herself. She was shouting at the top of her voice now, painful memories seeping through her mind of when she risked it all for Chris. Moments when she gave up on everything she cherished just to be his wife. "I gave it all up for you, you moron! I loved you more than my own fucking happiness that I left my life in the past. My career! Just so you can be happy. Just so you can love me the way I love you." She raged out. "But you took it out on me for so long, Cara. You make me feel bad about myself all the fucking time!" Chris shot back at her. "Chris, you are never around. You head out and come back late at night. And after two days, bam! You're out for a mysterious business trip and won't be back until two weeks later. You're never around, even when we're together. You're always texting and smiling to yourself. I have become boring to you--" "Technically, you've been having all these curves that aren't attractive anymore. Looking older than your age, whereas I'm young and sexy. I mean, you've seen me naked and you even compliment my nice and slender body." Jessica said proudly. Everything was starting to become unbearably painful for Cara now. "So it took you just two years to cheat on me? That's it, you're doing this because I'm no longer as slender as I used to be two years ago??" She was twenty six, same age as Chris was, and he always made this joke that he would be more happy being with someone younger than he was. Had he really been serious? Jessica smirked, feeling fully elated now as Cara was sulking in pain. Chris heaved in a frustrated sigh. "Look, I know you're drunk. I mean, we all are. Let me get dressed up and take you home. To, you know? Cool off some steam." Chris quickly picked up his scattered cloth and began to get dressed. "And me? Who's taking me home, Chris?" Jessica pouted. Cara shot her an irritated look. "Okay, stop this madness at once! I deserve an apology for this shameless act of yours! Are you insane?" "Calm down, honey--I mean, Cara." Chris stuttered. He had been avoiding this mess but never in his wildest dreams imagined that that moment would be when he would have to deal with his... situation. "Let's just calm down. Come on, I'll drop you home now." "You see, I don't think there's any other way to calm things down." Jessica said slowly, making every word sound suspicious like it was supposed to be some poetic quote. Everyone was staring at her now. "You keep saying things will be calm. That we can sort things out." Jessica went on. "But there's no other way. Because I'm pregnant!" "What!" Chris spat out. "That's enough. I think you're drunk as well. Damn it, who said dating two women would be easy." He muttered to himself and kept on getting dressed. But Cara stared carefully and waited. She knew Jessica could be telling the truth. "Cara can see through me and she must know I'm not lying. You know what your wife has been working on for the past two years now without any success? I did that so easily in just a few months." Jessica said. She stood upright, shoulders straight and chin up. "I am pregnant, Chris. You're going to be a father soon."Cara wished she had been mistaken! Her next move was to slap Jessica so hard that she would have to fall to the ground and beg for mercy. "Not only did you try to steal my husband by having sex with him behind my back, but you became pregnant for him too??" Cara raged out. "You're pregnant? For me?" For a moment, there was a soft feature on Chris's face that made Cara's insides churn. Was he happy that his mistress--no. His wife's best friend who is his mistress was carrying his fucking child!?"It doesn't make any sense." Cara spoke softly to herself. At first, she thought this would just be a case where everybody said they were sorry, and she and Chris could carry on with their supposedly perfect lives. But now...she feared the outcome of her two years of marriage.She was with Chris because she loved him, even more than her best friend, Romeo. Even more than her career. This feeling was back again and she hadn't felt like that since two years ago when she had to say goodbye to
Chris patiently waited throughout the next day after Cara's sudden disappearance before he had begun to dial her parents' numbers. Of course, no one picked up either! It was Sunday evening with Jessica with him. He had called her over knowing he could run mad without someone by his side with Cara missing.Jessica noticed him pacing around as he dialed his phone over and over again. She couldn't take it anymore. "My love?" She called out in a sweet tone. "Can you come over here for a while?"Chris cut the call and dawdled over to her. She nudged him to take a seat, which he did. "I know you're worried about her. She's my best friend after all. But she's not a kid and I'm sure she'll be fine. You called me over for a reason, and now you make me feel all lonely.""Lonely? Oh no, never. I'm sorry, love. I'm just really worried for her, that's all. Her parents won't pick up!" Chris lamented. He was suddenly looking all haggard and unkempt the more Jessica stared at him. Didn't he say
Cara was enjoying that moment but she quickly reminded herself her true purpose for coming. "Listen, Chris. Just cut the crap. I'll be on my way once Jolina is back with my stuff. Bear with me till Tuesday, and you'll never have to see my face again." She said to him with a stern face."You think this is funny, right? That you can bring a complete stranger into our matrimonial home! Because to me, we're not divorced yet."Romeo had been warned by Cara not to say anything all through but that didn't mean he couldn't chuckle from time to time.Chris walked forward to him, "and what has been funny to you?""Well, you talk all about me being in your matrimonial home and yet, this woman just walked out here from your matrimonial room, or am I wrong?" Romeo said in a playing tone. "How dare you!" Chris spat out but Cara quickly stepped between them."Alright, knock it off, Chris! We're done here." Cara said. "I'm being decent here by letting you two enjoy your happy life together. Don't m
Chris’ eyes widened. “What? What nonsense are you spilling from your mouth?”Jessica snorted a laugh. “You might be an Armani but Mr Michael Knowles is Chris’ dad and who do you think he will listen to? A stranger or his own son?”“We'll have to find out, won't we?” Romeo's brow arched. His lips curved into a taunting smirk as he led Cara away from Chris and Jessica. “Let's leave them alone, Carina.”Cara nodded and followed him into the car like a child being led by her father.Jessica's hand formed into a tight grip, her nails digging into her palm as anger swallowed her entire body. “My love,” she tried to keep her voice calm even though she had lost her grip on coolness on the inside. “Your dad will definitely do as you say, right?” Her thin brow twitched skyward.Chris paced about with uncertainty causing his heart to race. “He will! I mean he has to, I am his son after all.”Jessica gripped his hands suddenly and stared into his eyes. “My love, you have to make sure he listens t
The Knowles building was large and extravagantly detailed. Cara felt a choking sensation in her throat as they– she and Romeo– walked into the company.Her hands fiddled together nervously as they walked side by side, her throat tightened and a bead of sweat trickled down her face. Romeo, on the other hand, was all smiles as he walked. Not even an iota of worry was apparent on his face.The handsome young man strolled confidently with his hands in the depth of his pocket and his shoulders and head held up high just like he was the CEO of the company.If he were the CEO, then she was the low and unnoticed staff that was about to get fired for looking at him in the wrong way.But she swallowed her fear and managed to keep her head up.The secretary rose to her feet and gave a deep bow to Romeo as she saw him. “Mr Armani, welcome.” Her brown hair almost touched the floor at the depth of her bow.“Michael Knowles, is he in?” He plainly asked.The secretary seemed to be shuddering or maybe
Mr Knowles swallowed hard. How could such an absurd favor be asked of him? And he wasn't even asking like a favor, he was stating it like he was telling him what he must do!“I am not asking for a favor here.” Romeo stated, as if he had read the man's thoughts.Mr Knowles remembered that his son had called him and told him not to even think about investing in Cara's father's business. His son didn't explain anything to him about their divorce and Romeo. ‘What a fool!’ He cussed. ‘He could have at least mentioned the fact that she had an Armani on her side!’He cleared his throat. “I– I uh understand that Mr Armani–”“I don't think you do.” Romeo cut him off. His voice was stern and firm. He had been sitting in a relaxed position before with one leg on top of the other and his back pressed against the comfortable sofa but he sat up straight and uncrossed his long legs.Mr Knowles seemed to shift back in seat, like there was an infinity around Romeo that kept them from being even a litt
Jessica chewed subconsciously on her nails as she paced back and forth. She paused and stared at Chris who was sitting without uttering any word. He was usually the one pacing about.She walked up to him and sat down next to him. “Why do you think your dad hadn't called to say anything?”He shook his head slowly. “I don't know.” He responded dryly.Jessica grunted. “Ugh, the anxiety is killing me! Why can't we just call him?” She asked with widened eyes. “Huh? What if something has happened already?”“He said he would give me feedback later, remember? So let's just wait.” His tone was just as dry as before.“Wait? Wait! What if something has already happened but he forgot to call you because of work or he can't even call you because he is ashamed he let you down? My love, we have to know! We will never really know if the cat in the box is dead or alive if we don't open it.”“Jessica.” He suddenly turned to look at her. “Do you think Cara is really dating that man, what was his name? S
As much as she insisted that it was okay if she took a bus alone to her parents house, Romeo refused and told her he would drive her himself.“There seems to be more important things than our trip now.” He remarked.She smiled briefly. Her head was lost in a series of thoughts. Why was her father suddenly retiring? She knew the company was not doing well but with enough hard work, they could stop it from going bankrupt.Was he feeling like he was too old for business hassle? All of a sudden? Did her step mother consent to the decision? Why would they think such a decision was a wise one to make?She had so many questions written down in her head to ask them once they arrived there which wouldn't be long anymore.Arriving at their family house, she decided to invite Romeo inside. Since he was intelligent business wise, maybe he could chirp in a few words to back her up.Miranda, her step mother, served both of them tea. “You hardly come home these days. We miss you.” She had a warm smi
Cara slid on her blouse, a shade of green, fitting tightly around her bust and small waist. She pulled her pants up her slim legs and buttoned it properly around her waist. “Don't forget your jacket babe.” Romeo remained her as he dressed himself up properly. She smiled and nodded her head. Throwing her jacket around her shoulders and sliding her arms through the arm holes, she was done dressing and ready to leave. Romeo stopped by the door, his hand resting on the door knob. He sucked in air through his lips and turned back to face Cara. “Are you sure ice cream is really what you want to have for breakfast? You have thought deeply about it? I mean I don't mind, I can whip up something fast and delicious for you if you would like.”“Ice cream will do just fine.” Cara responded with a soft smile. “It's not like I wouldn't enjoy a meal with you, I'm afraid of what might happen.”His emerald eyes sparkled as he squinted. “Happen?” “Men look extra hot in an apron and I might not be a
Chris arched his brow at his woman. "What is that supposed to mean?"She turned back to look at him and her lips spread into an even wider and grimmer smile. “You had an audience at your own show, it's only right that I get one too.” She rose slowly and dramatically to her feet. “Of course, your father is much of an audience to me, loving, supportive, not to mention rich and handsome, oh Sarah doesn't know what she has. Or shall I call you mother in-law? Whichever you'd prefer.”Michael blushed generously. “You are too kind with your words.” He stood up straight and adjusted his buttoned up shirt. “I see you have taken your time to study me,” a somewhat irritated side glance was casted at his wife, “unfortunately, some people don't appreciate me enough.” Sarah scoffed. “Are you foolish or just plain dumb?” She frowned at her husband. “She has you wrapped around her finger, just the way she wants it!” “Oh dear no, mother in-law, you have got it all wrong.” Jessica faked politeness. “
Chris stared dumbfounded at his father, confusion and surprise burning in his gaze. Had he heard the man right? Loss control and financial accounting duties? To Jessica? Sarah burst into a loud guffaw. Everyone stared confusedly at her but she kept laughing anyway. "What's so funny, my dear?" Michael finally asked. She wiped a tear from her eyes and finally stopped laughing. "Oh dear, you crack me up sometimes." Michael was confused. "How so my dear?" He arched a confused brow at her. She looked at him as if he was the one acting weird. "What do you mean how so? Jessica? This is more than a joke!" Michael shook his head with a soft sigh. "My love, I am being serious--" "Nonsense!" She barked, cutting him off. "What an outrageous prank this is! You are trying to tell me that this girl will take over my position?" She squinted her eyes softly as if trying to see the sense in what he had just said. "Care to tell me why you are referring to our daughter in-law as this girl?" Mich
Cara turned in her bed as she began to wake and landed in the strong arms of her beloved Romeo.She let out a soft gasp, hoping not to have startled him awake. But he was still sound asleep. Thankfully. She smiled.She stared at his godly face, wondering how long it must have taken to make a man as fine as that. She felt her cheeks flush red as memories of the past night resurfaced in her mind.She was so sure of it, she had never screamed like that before. Not with any man. Romeo was the first to ever make her wish her body could take more than it originally could. More than it was legal for any body to!'Damn! This man is everything and more!' She bit down on her lips as she thought to herself.Her eyes trailed from his face down to his bare chest and broad shoulders. It wasn't like she was comparing them with each other-- there was nothing to compare about-- but Chris wasn't half the man Romeo was.He wasn't on the same level with him, not in body and skill. Romeo had some impossib
Moments passed by so slowly, Cara took more than enough time to stare at the image of perfection staying on one knee right in front of her.When she realized that her heart was about to explode from all the excitement that was traveling through her body, she jerked her hand from his face with an abruptness and her elbow went straight for her glass.She drew back a breath of shock upon noticing what she had done, "oh dear!" She exclaimed and tried to catch the glass but its content ended up spilling on the table. "Ah! I'm so sorry..." Jerking back to avoid the wine from spilling on her dress, she knocked her chair over with a loud clatter and reached for that one too but it had already touched the ground."Sorry, for that, I'm so sorry for ruining dinner." She instantly apologized, her eyes taking up the mess she had created around her.She heard a muffled laughter and she looked up from the mess, only to realize Romeo was now on his feet as well, staring at her with a hand over his
"I think Romeo feels like he can truly breathe again thanks to you." Camilla said with a smile on her face.Cara felt her cheeks redden and she smiled softly."Okay. So that's what we are going to do. Now, let us share our duties. I will work on the decorations, what's left is cake, drinks, appetizers and presents. You all should decide on which one you feel capable of doing." Andrew said."I'll take the cake!" Camilla exclaimed excitedly. "The caterers in charge of our wedding makes the best of the best cakes. She is very talented and I think she will be able to make a good iron man cake."Do you think it should be a statue of him? I mean Iron man. I think that will look very cool and mature!""Sure, you're on cake. Just make sure it's perfect and more than one please." Andrew ordered."I'm on appetizers." Jastrow said. "Although the caterers should do that too but it's cool, I know someone anyway.""That girl you have been dying to hook up with?" Andrew asked. "I can't believe you a
Cara had a smile on her face. Winter had come and the weather was perfectly chill. Days had gone by in peace and she could finally escape from the stress of her work and meet up with her new friends who treated her no differently even though she wasn't rich like either of them.Andrew tossed her a can of chilled coke and sunk into his soft sofa. "You know I had a feeling that those two lovebirds would be the last to join us." He said to Cara."It's always them." Jastrow added."Hey, you can't blame them," Cara said with a smile. "They have a wedding to prepare for.""True but the wedding isn't today so why aren't they here yet? Just one day to plan the perfect surprise, we are all busy with our jobs so they should not use the wedding as an excuse." Andrew explained.Cara simply smiled. Wedding preparation was always more grand than outsiders thought. They couldn't know the stress unless they were the ones getting married.So she didn't bother to raise an argument to contradict Andrew'
Days had gone by and silence was proudly dominating the home of the Knowles family. Sarah Knowles had not spoken to her husband ever since he took Jessica's side and not hers while Jessica herself walked around the house like a ghost no one could see.She didn't pretend to be nice to her mother in law, the woman was of no use to her. She smiled at her father in-law, acting nice to him just to get into his head like a parasite and feed on his brain.It was working, that was the only reason she kept it up.And to Chris, she ignored him like he was the ghost. A ghost she didn't see or cared less about. To her, he was just as insignificant as their plant to her. Less insignificant even.She found herself thinking of a man before falling asleep though, a handsome man, suit and tie yet underneath he was like Superman.He was handsome, impossibly good looking for that matter. With eyes that seduced just about anyone and a smile that was even more beautiful than a sunset and a sunrise.Romeo
Chris rose to his feet under the watchful gaze of Cara. His body shook with anger and he clenched his fist. With a glare, he warned Romeo through gritted teeth. "This isn't over yet, pretty boy. I promise you."Cara scoffed a laugh, trying not to find it unbelievable that Chris was going to such extents. Didn't he boast on the day of their divorce that she would be the one to beg him to take her back? Why was he so desperate now?She watched him storm to his car and drive off, leaving them with nothing but his dust. Her eyes landed on Romeo and sorry flickered across them as she scanned his body for any sign of injury."Are you okay? Were you hurt?"Romeo smiled softly. He had been the one that landed the blows yet she was worried about him. His eyes lit up like an excited puppy. "I'm alright." He took her hand in his. "As long as you are."She nodded her head with a weak smile. A soft sigh escaped her mouth and Romeo cupped her cheek.He looked into her eyes, his emerald balls of mag