Chapter 28

Alexander approached his mother, noticing the faint lines of fatigue etched on her face. "Mom, you haven't slept yet," he said, concern lacing his voice.

Victoria turned to him, her eyes narrowing slightly. "You too didn't sleep, son. What kept you awake?"

Alexander shrugged. "I had some work to catch up on. Tomorrow, I have to leave for Paris on a business trip."

Victoria's interest piqued; she leaned forward. "Are you going alone?"

Alexander shook his head. "No, Tyler's coming with me."

Victoria's expression transformed, her voice taking on a persuasive tone. "Why don't you take your wife along? The business trip will provide an opportunity for you both to spend quality time together and rekindle the spark."

Alexander hesitated, knowing Roselyn needed rest after their recent vacation. "We've just returned from a short break, Mom. Maybe she's tired and needs to rest."

But Victoria persisted, her voice dripping with fake concern. "Nonsense, Alexander. She needs to accompany you. It's essential for your marriage. Think of it as a chance to reconnect, to strengthen your bond."

Alexander sensed his mother's ulterior motives but couldn't quite put his finger on them. "What's bothering you, Mom?"

Victoria's mask of concern slipped for an instant before she regained composure. "I just want to see you happy, dear. And I fear... if you don't make an effort, things might drift further apart between you and Roselyn."

Her words struck a chord, Alexander's thoughts drifting to the tension between him and Roselyn. "Maybe you're right, Mom. I'll ask her."

Victoria's face lit up with a triumphant smile, her eyes gleaming with satisfaction. "That's my son. Now, go ask Roselyn to pack her bags. You leave tomorrow, after all."

Alexander left the room; a sly smile spread across my face, masking the calculating thoughts racing through my mind. I had manipulated him perfectly, concealing my true intentions beneath a veneer of maternal concern.

My goal was never to reunite Alexander and Roselyn or strengthen their marriage. No, my objective was far more sinister. I wanted Roselyn out of Alexander's life forever, and this Paris trip was the perfect opportunity to set my plan in motion.

By persuading Alexander to take Roselyn to Paris, I had cleverly orchestrated the circumstances to expedite their downfall. The city of love would become the backdrop for their destruction, and I would be the puppeteer pulling the strings.

My smile grew wider as I contemplated the impending chaos. Alexander's blind trust in me would be his undoing, and Roselyn's naive nature would seal her fate. I had carefully laid the groundwork, and now all I had to do was wait for the dominoes to fall.

With each passing moment, my anticipation grew. Soon, Alexander would realize his mistake in marrying Roselyn, and he would come crawling back to me, grateful for my guidance.

As I gazed into the darkness, my resolve hardened. Roselyn would not return from Paris as Alexander's wife. I would ensure it.

The silence of the night was broken only by my soft, menacing chuckle, a cold, calculated sound that sent shivers down my own spine. This was my chance, and I would not let it slip away. Roselyn's days as Alexander's wife were numbered.

***************************************

Roselyn's voice filled with warmth as she spoke to Chris over the phone. "I'm doing great, Chris. Thanks for asking."

Chris's friendly tone echoed through the line. "That's wonderful to hear, Roselyn. What's behind this newfound happiness?"

Roselyn's smile was audible. "Alexander and I... we've been working through our issues. I've given him a second chance."

Chris's surprise was palpable. "That's fantastic news! What made you change your mind?"

Roselyn's voice softened. "He's changed, Chris. He's become the man I always desired. He's attentive, caring... and I love him."

Chris's delight was evident. "I'm thrilled for you both! You deserve happiness, Roselyn."

Just as Roselyn was about to respond, a pair of strong arms enveloped her from behind, hands resting on her waist. Soft lips grazed her shoulder, sending shivers down her spine.

Roselyn's cheeks flushed as she turned to face her husband, her eyes locking with Alexander's. She hastily ended the call, her voice barely above a whisper. "Chris, I'll talk to you later."

Alexander's eyes sparkled with amusement as he took the phone from her hand, his fingers intertwining with hers. "Who was that?" he asked, his breath whispering against her ear.

Roselyn's smile lingered. "Just Chris. He was checking in."

Alexander's lips curved into a gentle smile. "I'm glad you're happy, Roselyn."

As he drew her closer, Roselyn's heart swelled with emotion. This was the Alexander she had always wanted—loving, attentive, and devoted.

"I'm happy, Alexander," she whispered, her voice lost in the warmth of their embrace.

Alexander's fingers deftly untied the strap of Roselyn's robe, sliding it off her shoulder. His lips grazed her skin, sending shivers down her spine.

As he removed the robe, Roselyn's breath caught in her throat. She was left standing in only her short nightwear, her skin vulnerable to Alexander's gaze.

His mouth trailed kisses along her shoulder, his hand gently sweeping her hair aside. His fingers caressed her belly, slowly ascending to explore the curves of her body.

Roselyn's resolve wavered, her body melting into his touch. She wanted to stop him, but her traitorous heart yearned for more.

Summoning her last ounce of willpower, Roselyn grasped Alexander's hand, turning to face him. Her eyes locked with his, a mixture of desire and reprimand sparkling within.

"Mr. Valtor, you need to stop," she whispered, her voice husky. "Today's your flight to Paris. You should sleep and take rest."

Alexander's eyes cleared, his expression transforming from passion to memory. He had almost forgotten his true intention.

"Actually, that's why I came here," he said, his voice low and persuasive. "I want you to come with me to Paris."

Roselyn's eyebrows arched in surprise. "But it's a business trip."

Alexander's gaze held hers, his voice filled with conviction. "That's exactly why I need you there—as my companion. Your presence will make this trip unforgettable."

Roselyn's resolve crumbled beneath his words. No one had ever made her feel so desired, so needed.

"Okay," she whispered finally, her voice barely audible.

Alexander's face lit up with triumph, his lips curling into a captivating smile. "Pack your bags, Roselyn. We leave today."

**************************************

She packed her bags, and Roselyn's mind whirled with questions. Why did Alexander suddenly want her to accompany him to Paris?

"Alexander, what's going on?" She asked, turning to face him. "Why do you want me to come with you so badly?"

Alexander's expression turned serious, his eyes shining with sincerity. "There's an invitation to Paris Delicats' 100th anniversary celebration. It's a prestigious event, and I need to attend."

Roselyn's curiosity piqued. "And why do you want me to come along?"

Alexander's gaze roamed over her, his voice filled with adoration. "Because I want to show the world who Alexander's wife is—the most beautiful girl in the world. I want to introduce you as my partner, my companion, and my love."

Roselyn's heart skipped a beat at his words, her doubts melting away. No one had ever made her feel so cherished.

"You want to show me off?" she teased, a smile playing on her lips.

Alexander chuckled, his eyes crinkling. "I want the world to see what I see every day—a stunning woman who captivates my heart."

Roselyn's cheeks flushed, her pulse racing. She couldn't resist the charm of his words.

"Okay, I'm packed," she said, snapping her luggage shut.

Alexander grinned, rising from the bed. "Let's conquer Paris together."

"Alright, let's get moving," Alexander said, his voice filled with excitement. "We need to leave soon."

Roselyn nodded, her hands flying as she packed the remaining essentials.

"Don't forget warm coats and clothes," Alexander reminded her. "Paris can be chilly this time of year."

Roselyn tossed a few sweaters and scarves into her luggage. "Got it."

Alexander chuckled, watching her efficient packing. "You're quite the pro."

"Someone has to keep up with your spontaneous plans," Roselyn teased.

Within minutes, their bags were packed and zipped. Alexander grasped Roselyn's hand, pulling her close.

"Ready to take on Paris?" he asked, his eyes sparkling.

Roselyn smiled, feeling a thrill of adventure. "Born ready."

With their luggage in tow, they hastened out of the mansion, bound for the airport and the City of Love.

*******************************************

Roselyn's gaze burned with frustration as she stared at her husband, Alexander, who was engrossed in his laptop and phone, oblivious to her presence. They were on a private jet, soaring through the skies, with still two hours to go before landing in Paris.

She couldn't help but feel a pang of regret for agreeing to this trip. The excitement had worn off, replaced by boredom and annoyance. Why had she let Alexander persuade her to join him?

The luxurious cabin, once a symbol of luxury and adventure, now felt suffocating. Roselyn felt trapped, stuck with a husband who seemed more interested in his work than her.

She crossed her arms, her eyes never leaving Alexander's focused face. His fingers flew across the keyboard, his phone buzzing intermittently as he responded to messages.

The silence between them was oppressive, punctuated only by the hum of the engines and Alexander's occasional murmurs to himself. Roselyn's mind wandered, wondering what she could have done instead of accompanying Alexander on this trip.

She should have stayed home, enjoyed some peace and quiet, and avoided this frustrating scenario. But Alexander's persistence had worn her down, and now she was stuck on this plane, feeling like an afterthought.

Roselyn's sigh was audible, but Alexander didn't flinch, too absorbed in his work to notice his wife's growing discontent.

I scroll through my phone; my eyes keep drifting back to Alexander. Our marriage may have lacked passion, but his loyalty has never wavered. He's never cheated on me, and that means everything.

Memories of our early days resurface, and I feel a flutter in my chest. Maybe this trip is exactly what we need—a change of environment to reignite the spark.

Our marriage was built on mutual respect and trust. Now, I dare to hope that love can blossom. Alexander's dedication, his smile, and his gentle touch—it all feels new again.

I sneak another glance at him, our eyes meeting briefly. Maybe this trip to Paris will be our second chance at love. Perhaps, just perhaps, our marriage will finally be filled with love.

*************************************

The flight attendant approached, her friendly smile a welcome respite from the monotony of the long-haul flight that had been dragging on for hours. "Do you want anything? Mrs. Valtor?" asked with genuine interest.

Roselyn's gaze drifted lazily from her husband, her eyes sparkling with amusement as she settled back into her plush seat. "No," she replied, her voice laced with a hint of boredom.

The attendant's brow furrowed slightly; her curiosity piqued. "But you pressed the button, ma'am," she pointed out gently.

Roselyn's smile deepened, her lips curving upward mischievously. "Oh yes, can you get me a drink?" she requested, her tone playful.

The attendant's curiosity was palpable as she asked, "What would you like to drink, Mrs. Valtor?" her eyes scanning the options on her tray.

Roselyn's eyes locked onto Alexander's, a mischievous glint dancing in their depths. "Whiskey," she replied, her voice husky and confident.

The attendant's eyebrows arched slightly, surprise flickering across her face. "Are you sure?" she inquired, her tone cautious.

Roselyn's tone was laced with playful defiance. "Yes, because I need sleep, and it's better to sleep than endure this boring journey," she explained, her words dripping with sarcasm.

Alexander's gaze flicked up from his call, his eyes crinkling at the corners as he suppressed a smile at his wife's antics.

The attendant nodded, disappearing to fetch the drink, and when she returned, Roselyn accepted the glass with a gracious smile.

"Thank you," she said, her voice sincere.

Roselyn took a tentative sip of the whiskey, her face contorting at the bitter taste that assaulted her senses. She quickly set the glass aside, plugged in her headphones, closed her eyes, and let the soothing music wash over her.

Before long, her eyelids drooped, and she drifted off to sleep, exhausted from the journey. Alexander watched her, his expression softening as he gently covered her with a blanket to ward off the chill of the cabin.

Time passed, and the plane began its descent into Paris. Alexander gently shook Roselyn awake, his voice gentle. "We have to get down now."

Roselyn's eyes fluttered open, disoriented and groggy from her nap. "Have we reached?" she asked, her voice laced with sleep.

"Yes," Alexander replied, his smile warm and reassuring.

She sat up, peering out the window at the breathtaking Parisian landscape unfolding before her, and her face lit up with excitement.

"We've reached!" she exclaimed, her voice bubbling with enthusiasm.

Alexander smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners.

Roselyn composed herself, a blush rising to her cheeks. "I mean, wow," she said, her tone more subdued.

Alexander's eyes crinkled further. "Let's disembark, shall we?" he suggested, his voice filled with anticipation.

************************************************