Leopold POV Five years have passed quickly, but it feels like only yesterday that I first met my chatty wife. Although we have faced various problems, both small and big, in our relationship, we have always tried to find solutions together. The first three years were a tough test for us. From minor arguments that led to days without talking to a big problem when my branch companies almost went bankrupt because of the actions of my trusted people. At that time, I was forced to leave Serena and our baby in America to deal with issues in various countries. Our relationship almost broke down, and Serena almost asked for a divorce because my busy schedule made her feel neglected, especially when she had the baby blues. Once, when Serena cried and angrily asked for a divorce over the phone, it felt like the world was crumbling before my eyes. Luckily, Serena's family was there to help take care of my son and boost her morale. I can never thank my father-in-law enough for being so unders
Serena P. O. V Fuck you, Jason. I raised my hands high to the beat of the EDM music that filled my ears. The influence of alcohol is enough to make me forget about the problems that led me to run away to Monaco. Today, it's exactly two hundred days since my relationship with Jason ended. My friends took me to Monaco to celebrate 'Two Hundred Days Without That Jerk Jason'. I can live without Jason. On second thought, he wasn't worth crying over. Even though I spent sixty days crying and shutting myself in my room. Jason not only broke my heart, but also made me doubt that there are good men in this world. On paper, Jason met all the criteria my parents wanted in a son-in-law. Jason strengthened my strained relationship with my parents and made it more amicable. He may not be the most handsome man I've ever known. Jason compensated for his physical shortcomings by excelling in other areas. Jason was very polite. He could melt the heart of Mr. General of the Air Force, aka my fathe
Serena P. O. V His reply made my blood boil. I definitely didn't accept rejection. Besides, the reason was really unclear. “What's wrong with me being too young?” I looked up to give him a challenging look. Those sharp eyes glanced at me, then took another sip of whiskey. “Women your age only bring trouble.” I stared at him with narrowed eyes, unable to understand his opinion. “Like what?” Leopold turned his body toward me. My position, also facing him, caused his thighs to touch mine. He looked down for a moment, and I seized the moment to close the distance with him. I deliberately held one side of his thigh with my thigh. He growled softly, but I ignored him. “Nothing.” Leopold used one hand to say that he was uncomfortable with my question. He tried to break away, but I leaned my body towards him even more. I noticed that Leopold looked a little surprised and then kept his distance from me. From the way he looked at me, it was as if I were a parasite. And he didn't hide hi
Serena P. O. V Hands down. Last night was the best kiss I've ever had. Once I'm in a relationship, it usually lasts a long time. It's no wonder that my references to kissing and sex experiences are so few. The last guy I kissed was that asshole Jason. Everything about him was a fatal mistake that I shouldn't have to bring up. Even remembering him made me feel like I had wasted my time. Overnight, Leopold had managed to erase all memories of Jason from my mind. Last night's kiss happened so suddenly. In the slightest, I didn't expect him to erase our distance. It could only petrify my body like a statue. I only realized this when I felt Leopold's palm holding my nape. This was also my first experience. Kissing with a stranger. He's practically a stranger. Last night was my first encounter with him. An encounter that lasted less than an hour but ended with my tongue dancing with his. It would be a lie if I said his kiss was just a passing fancy. He was a great kisser. I could fee
Serena P. O. V Leopold's eyes never left mine as the distance between us decreased. When we were only a few steps away, I saw a lopsided smile spread across his face. He was like a predator in the wild, and I was the easy prey who had foolishly given myself into his hands. “Hi, remember me?” I asked. I put on a big smile to hide my true feelings. All I wanted to do this time was do whatever I wanted without thinking about anything. Including the consequences. I actually wouldn't party intending to finding a sexual partner. I would also never kiss a stranger. And definitely, I would never flirt uncontrollably like this. However, while sitting in front of Leopold, I let his gaze roam over my body. I realized that there was a part of me that I had always kept quiet about, now rebelling to escape. “How can I forget you?” Leopold raised one thick eyebrow with a faint smile that managed to make my heart race. I used this moment to scrutinize Leopold's figure. The sunset light was bea
Serena P. O. V Leopold kicked the door behind him shut before he pushed me against the wall. His lips silenced me, crushing me roughly and passionately. While his hands traced the curves of my body. I opened my mouth to kiss him back. His tongue licked my lips, twisting my tongue relentlessly. My breath catches in my throat as I savor his rough kiss. He takes off the flower-pleated spaghetti strap mini dress I'm wearing. For a moment, I interrupted his kisses as my summer dress passes over my head. After removing the dress, I stood before him in a lacy bra and panties that left my sensitive areas exposed. Afterward, he brought me back into his passionate kiss. His gigantic hands pull off the white lace bra I'm wearing and throw it in a random direction. The swish of the air conditioner brushes against my breasts. Yet, when Leopold cupped his hands there, it felt so warm. “Do you want to continue?” Leopold whispered right in my ear. I nodded slowly. A moan escaped my mouth as he s
Serena P. O. V *Two months later.* The past two months have been hell. Jason got married to his girlfriend in a highly extravagant building in L.A. Their wedding was so lavish that it even made it to the business news as one of the most opulent weddings of the year. His new bride's glowing face made me sick. It was the last spark that made me even more eager to find a new job. After going through the interview process in many places, I finally landed in Pequira. Pequira is a tech company specializing in innovative software, AI, IoT solutions, and sustainable technologies. There are few employees, as they only started operating two years ago. Yet, if I look at the background and achievements of the owner, it's a very promising place. I got a positive impression during the interview. So when the headhunter made this offer, I accepted it immediately. Moving from a large corporation to a small company is certainly a new challenge. As a senior human resources officer, I had to run the d
Leopold P. O. V Without caring, I got up. But first I said, “Raymond, I want to talk to you outside.” Serena was still looking at me with a shocked face. Luckily, I was still able to control myself, even though I was just as surprised as she was. Why was she in Pequira? Without waiting for Raymond's response, I preceded him out of the meeting room. I made my way to the pantry, out of Serena's reach. “I'll hit you on the head if the subject isn't essential.” Raymond snorted as he crossed his arms over his chest. “How did she become our new employee?” I hoped Raymond had made a mistake in hiring. And that I had misunderstood his explanation earlier. He gave me lazy eyes that made me impatient. “I told you, a new employee is coming to Pequira. She should be your responsibility,” he replied sharply. In building Pequira, Raymond and I shared responsibilities. He handled the internal technology management issues. Meanwhile, I was responsible for the business aspect. Hiring people wa
Leopold POV Five years have passed quickly, but it feels like only yesterday that I first met my chatty wife. Although we have faced various problems, both small and big, in our relationship, we have always tried to find solutions together. The first three years were a tough test for us. From minor arguments that led to days without talking to a big problem when my branch companies almost went bankrupt because of the actions of my trusted people. At that time, I was forced to leave Serena and our baby in America to deal with issues in various countries. Our relationship almost broke down, and Serena almost asked for a divorce because my busy schedule made her feel neglected, especially when she had the baby blues. Once, when Serena cried and angrily asked for a divorce over the phone, it felt like the world was crumbling before my eyes. Luckily, Serena's family was there to help take care of my son and boost her morale. I can never thank my father-in-law enough for being so unders
Serena POVAfter the blessing, it was time for the after-party in another hall. The night was peaceful, with a gentle breeze rustling the leaves and the distant sound of crickets chirping. The tranquility of the evening enveloped everything in a sense of calm and serenity. We both stepped into another hall that had been prepared for the after-party. The party was a blast! The decorations were spectacular, with Mickey and Minnie Mouse balloons, a Cinderella castle centerpiece, and a life-sized cutout of Goofy. The music playing in the background added to the magic of the evening, with classic Disney tunes filling the air. Leopold really went all out, and I felt like a kid again. I couldn't wait to join in the fun and celebrate in this enchanting setting. It was the perfect choice to bring fun and magic to our special moment.Colorful lights hanging from the ceiling have decorated the hall, creating a magical atmosphere just like in Disneyland. The decorations were stunning: colorful b
Serena POVI can hardly believe it. Today, I got married at 23 to a 37-year-old man. He's not just any man. He's Leopold, the former CEO of my workplace and also my former one-night stand.During the proposal that came so suddenly and the surprise wedding outfit fitting, Leopold surprised me again. He calmly stated that he had already arranged our wedding with his family.My mouth dropped open, and my mind raced. I almost shouted, “What?!” But I could feel a tremor of excitement creeping up inside my chest.Speaking of Leopold's family, they all came all the way from Sweden to California.At first, I was afraid they would reject me. I was worried they'd make a big deal about Leopold siding with me to be my guardian and my father's successor. However, they welcomed me warmly. Leopold's mother was so considerate. That beautiful woman gave me a lot of advice on how to be a good wife and told me how to divide my time fairly between my husband and children. I may not have fully believed
Serena POVI frowned as Renesmee stopped the car in front of a luxury boutique building specializing in wedding dresses. From afar, the sunlight reflected off the boutique's windows, giving off a hypnotizing impression of luxury. “Renesmee, what did we come here for?” I protested, my hesitant voice clearly audible in the afternoon breeze that swept through my hair. She said she was taking me somewhere nice, but it turned out to be this luxury boutique.She laughed lightly, her bright-green eyes flashing. “You're curious, aren't you?”Renesmee glanced at me with a mysterious smile on her lips as we walked into the courtyard of the boutique building in Beverly Hills.I sighed, knowing for sure that she had a plan behind all this. I knew this boutique, a place only the elite could afford. It belonged to a renowned designer who used to make clothes for top celebrities and the rich.“You're getting married?” I asked Renesmee as we entered the boutique building. The fragrant smell of fresh
Leopold POV I sat in the center of the living room that I had carefully designed. Nervousness struck, though I tried to hide it behind my broad smile. Tonight was the night I had been waiting for—the night I would propose to Serena, my true love, to become my wife.Looking around, I couldn't help but smile at all the simple designs I had prepared. I adorned the living room with vibrant roses, their fragrance evoking memories of Serena’s alluring presence. I deliberately chose colors to reflect the joy and happiness that we will share together as a married couple.I wasn't an interior designer, but I tried my best to create something special for Serena. The walls of the living room were full of photos of Serena that I had secretly taken. It brought back memories of the special times we had spent together. The shapes were mostly hearts, representing my deep affection for her. I might not care if some find it tacky. What truly matters is expressing my love for her.On the table were v
Serena POV I stared at him fiercely, my eyes shining with my newfound courage. “Maybe for you, it was a mistake, dad. But for me, it was the right choice. I love Leopold, and I will not leave him.”There were no more words from my father; there was only a pressing silence in the room. The debate over the terms of becoming part of the Alexander family would never end.After all, how could I sacrifice my love? I will defend my choice, no matter what.“I realized long ago that you never considered my presence. I struggled to find my own happiness. Then, when I found a man who accepted me sincerely, you suddenly asked me to break up,” I said disappointed.“Serena, I know what's best for you.” Dad growled as he squeezed the sofa.I shook my head. “You never knew about me, dad. All you know is the family image.”“When you regret your choice, don't come here. You're such an unreliable daughter!” He exclaimed loudly, startling Uncle Frederick, who had just entered the room.I may look wild t
Serena POV I sat on a comfortable garden chair, looking out over the rose garden in front of me. The air seemed to be guiding me to bring all the courage I had. Here I was, in the garden of my father's house, with my heart pounding. I had considered everything carefully beforehand, and now I needed to ask for his blessing.“Dad, I'm sorry I came without telling you first,” I said, trying to compose myself.He turned to me with a serious expression, his eyes staring intently at me. I knew he was going to ask me the gist of what I wanted to talk about. That's how my father was—always straight to the point.“What do you want to talk about, Serena?” He asked, his voice sounding stiff, as if reflecting how difficult it was for him to express emotions.I swallowed, trying to organize the words properly in my mind before speaking them. I wanted my father to understand; I wanted him to support me.“I've come to talk about Leopold,” I said slowly, trying to construct my sentences carefully s
Serena POVThe heat of the setting sun left an orange color on the western horizon, creating a dazzling silhouette of Leopold before me. But, even though he was there, a darkness filled my mind, filled with worries about Eloise that hovered in the back of my mind.Leopold gently touched my flowing hair, giving me goosebumps from his warm touch. However, underneath his gentleness, there was anxiety shackling my heart.“Babe, is something bothering you?” his voice hissed, easing the chaos in my mind.I looked up at him, searching for answers in his warm eyes. Our arms embraced each other, and I buried my head in his chest, feeling the calm beat of his heart. “I'm still thinking about Eloise. You know how close we were. It's painful to recall all the wonderful memories we created together.”“Can a loyal friend hurt her friend?” asked Leopold in a soft voice, but his words pierced my heart. “No,” I replied softly, letting the silence envelop us.For some people, it might be easy to sugge
Serena POV Silence stretched between us, only the rustling of plates and the soft sounds of songs from the restaurant's speakers trying to break the ice at our table.Renesmee was still looking intently at Eloise, as if trying to find an answer from that gaze. Meanwhile, Eloise was silent, trapped in her own world created on her phone screen.“I'm finishing it here and today, because I no longer want to deal with anything that involves Eloise,” Renesmee said firmly, her voice piercing the air with disconcerting certainty.I could feel the tremor of firmness in her intonation, as if she had prepared her plan well in advance.I looked at Eloise, attempting to catch a speck of emotion behind her rigid facial expression. My hand touched her arm, trying to grab her attention from the virtual world that was sucking her in. “What about you, Eloise?” I whispered softly, as if feeling the darkness that enveloped her mind.Eloise looked up, her eyes still glued to her phone screen, though the