RaymondThe first time I met Noah was when I came back to take over my family's business. She was only 19 years old then. I grew up in Australia with my mother. My parents got a divorce when I was 6. My mom decided to travel back to her home country, taking me with her.Even though my parents couldn’t stand each other, I kept in touch with my dad over the years. He was rich and successful. He inspired me to study management and start a career in business. I was really good at it and got promoted every few years.On my 24th birthday, my father called me and said he had a special gift for me. “My son, I am retiring in two years. I’d like you to come home to train under me. Once I step away from my position, I want you to take over the company.” He said.I was stunned and felt deeply honored. Of course, this was an opportunity I had to grasp. I quit my job in Australia and made my way back home.At my Welcome Home party, Noah and Owen were standing in a far corner. When I finally made i
NoahAfter a delicious breakfast in the big hotel suite, I started getting my things together. Among the clothes scattered on the floor, I found Raymond's watch under my dress. He must’ve missed it when he gathered his things.As I was about to walk out the door, my phone rang. It was Lisa. “Lisa! Hi! I hope you're calling me with some good news. I could really use it right now.”She told me that a witness came forward last night and told the police that she was innocent. She was free to go.Thank goodness. Josie had kept his promise and got Lisa out. At least all that alcohol last night had been for a purpose.“That's amazing, Lisa.” I sighed. “I'm so glad!”“Me too, what a relief!” She responded. “Where are you, Noah? I really want to come and see you.”I felt so awkward and embarrassed after last night. I made an excuse that I was busy at work and would contact her later.I was painfully aware of Raymond's watch in my purse. I'd have to return it to him soon. But I really didn’t kn
Noah“Noah…? How are you feeling?” Lisa asked after I'd been staring at the letter quietly for 10 minutes. I looked up at her and said, “I'm feeling overwhelmed… But happy to know I still have a living family member!” I smiled. I always used to envy people with parents, and now I was one of them.The next morning, I woke up with new hope for my life. Perhaps this really would be a great new chapter. A new home, a new chance, and a real family.For several days, I thought about what I wanted to say to my father. Should I bring him a gift? Should I ask him about his life, or wait to see what he has to say? I pondered and prepared for the big moment.***On Saturday, I made my way to the restaurant in the early evening. The address was remote. The neighborhood seemed a bit dodgy. I felt on edge for no apparent reason.Suddenly, my phone rang, which frightened me. I looked at the screen and saw it was Raymond. I considered not picking up, but changed my mind.“Hello, Raymond?” I answered
NoahI was frightened by my father’s sudden rage. After our long conversation, I thought we had built some trust between us. And the blood bond we shared as father and daughter - didn’t that count for something?I desperately tried to defend myself. “Bob! Dad! Please… Let me go!” I cried, my voice constrained by his strong hands.He pressed me onto the table and cursed me and my dead mother. I couldn’t believe how aggressive and mean he was. He seemed so friendly earlier. I guess he just wanted my money…Tears were streaming down my face. The physical pain wasn’t nearly as bad as the emotional hurt. I thought I finally had a real family. A father I could count on. Someone whose flesh and blood I shared. Someone who truly cared about me.But instead, my newly found father was a shabby gambler who only wanted my money. He didn't care about me at all. What a nightmare.That's just my luck, I thought. These past few weeks have been nothing but disastrous. I shouldn't have got my hopes up
NoahRaymond was lying on the dirty pavement. He was moaning in pain. Bob froze as he heard the police sirens. They were coming closer. He seemed to consider running away, but couldn’t make up his mind. He was still holding the steel rod.“Noah, I will let this man live if you can promise to get me the money right now.” He uttered nervously. Was he seriously threatening me with Raymond's life?I tried to stall him, “OK, hold on. I will call my ex right now.” I fumbled around with my phone and pretended to call Owen.“Hello? Owen? It's Noah.” I feigned. “I have a huge favor to ask you. You see, I found out my father is still alive.”“Hurry up!” Bob interjected as the sirens got louder and louder.“He has a huge debt and needs $50,000.” I continued. “I don’t ha-”The second the police car came around the corner, Bob dropped his steel weapon and ran away. The car caught up with him easily. The officers jumped out and soon had him cornered. Their guns intimidated Bob. He finally gave up
NoahI knew it was selfish of me to ask him in this way. But I needed to know his true feelings. Perhaps Raymond had been taking care of me just out of sympathy. Perhaps the other night was just a one-night-stand that meant nothing to him. Raymond lifted his head and looked at me. The atmosphere turned tense. I was afraid he might be angry. After all, he could get any woman he wanted. Why would he want someone who wasn't 100% sure about him? He finally spoke. “Noah… I am 31 years old. I'm a successful CEO, mature and sensible enough to know what I want. So please trust me when I share my feelings.” He started. I nodded. “I like you, Noah. Very much. Since the first day we met, I thought you were the most beautiful, kind, special woman I'd ever seen.” He said. I blushed. “I honestly don't care if you still love Owen. I can imagine it's not easy to forget about someone you were so close to all your life. All I want is for you to give us a chance - you and me.”“I… I…” I hesitated. I
RaymondEver since our night together, Noah kept her distance from me. I felt disappointed, but I understood she wasn’t ready for something new so soon.On the surface, my life returned back to normal. But within me, something profound had changed. At work, I just couldn’t focus like before. In the meetings, my mind would drift back to that magical night. To Noah’s green eyes, her soft lips, her long hair… My villa felt big and empty without someone to share it with. My morning espresso didn’t taste the same. I knew I had to give Noah time, but in my heart I just wanted to spend every second of my life with her.On Friday, I had lunch with a client at a new restaurant. It was beautiful and modern. The food was incredible. I knew Noah would love this place. I really hoped she would be open to going on a date with me…I couldn't sleep all night. I tossed and turned, unable to decide what to do. Should I call her, or would that only push her further away? Should I ask her out, or is it
NoahI didn't know what to say to Raymond's invitation.He got injured protecting me, so it was my duty to take care of him. I knew his offer to stay at his home was made with kindness. But since we were both single, moving into his villa would raise some eyebrows. Raymond was the CEO of the biggest company in town. If journalists found out there was a strange woman living with him, they would be all over it. It would make us both get into a storm of public attention and opinions. I tried to think of a reason to refuse. When Raymond said he would feel bad if I had to travel the distance every day, I realized he was right. It would get exhausting to look after him all day and drive back home late at night. It was quite a far drive. I supposed we could find a compromise. “Thank you for the offer, Raymond. I’m considering moving in for a little while. But I don't want the press all over us. They would find a way to turn it into the scandal of the month.” I said.Raymond smiled knowingl