Serena P. O. V.What should I do now? Harry and Sarah invited me for an afternoon run in the park, and I foolishly agreed without a second thought. I went as far as buying a set of gym clothes to support my intention to have a healthy body. For the sake of Patrick Star's magic conch, I filled my closet with work clothes, casual clothes, and underwear. Sportswear never made the list because I don't like sweating. Except for sweating in bed with Leopold.Forget that! My dirty thoughts came back to haunt me. “I want to say the worst of the worst,” I said as I did some light movements in the running area. Harry, who was warming up, looked at me with one eyebrow raised. “Meaning?”“One thing I hate most is exercise,” I replied with a yawn. While Harry snorted, Sarah laughed. She raised both hands in anticipation. I returned to Sarah's high five and laughed together. “I only worked out for one meeting and then gave up. My body prefers to lie in bed,” Sarah giggled.I smiled widely, fe
Serena P. O. VI haven't had much work experience. Before Pequira, I only worked for one company. Even then, it was more of a labor of love. Although I didn't have much to compare it to, I liked my job at this company a lot more.There are many things that make me feel at home in Leopold's company. Supportive and fun coworkers are some of them. My coworkers are young, energetic, and so fiery that they encourage me to give my best.The director and his staff were also very supportive. I'm putting aside the fact that Leopold has my heart, but he really is the type of leader I want to be. Despite his annoying face, he's a leader that anyone can feel at home working with. He challenges a lot, doesn't interfere often, and is always available if needed.From day to day, working with him makes his value in my eyes continue to grow. But, it also made me feel further away from the man I knew back in Monaco. I never found Leopold to be miserable while working with him. It was as if the Leopold
Serena P. O. V My steps stopped at the door of the coffee shop when I saw a figure that was very familiar to me. Even though he had his back to me, I immediately recognized who he was just from his back. This is proof of how much he has invaded my mind since I started working at Pequira. No, since I met him in Monaco. The usual Serena would have made a turn. But I'd had enough of Serena, the thinker. I liked the new version of myself. The impulsive Serena. Act first; think later. Now all I wanted to do was enter this coffee shop and approach him. “Morning, sir. I didn't expect to see you here.” I deliberately elbowed Leopold's arm lightly. Leopold gave me a quick glance, and his face turned sour, making it hard for me to hold back my laughter. “I stop by here every day to buy coffee; why haven't we met before?” I leaned against the counter to face him. And I deliberately made a beautiful pose so that the curves of the body he once complimented were clearly visible. And my lu
Leopold P. O. VThe sound of a cat broke my reverie as I sat in my garden chair. I looked around, searching for the source of the sound. Not far away, toward the side terrace, I saw a cat.Serena's cat.Dickypuss.The cat came closer to me. What was he doing here? I didn't realize Serena lived so close to my house. In all my years in Santa Clara, I hadn't seen her once.This black, furry cat circled me. His nose sniffed at my shoes. Faintly, I heard footsteps. My body stiffens as I suspect the footsteps belong to Serena.Yesterday, I was out of control. Listening to Serena babbling and reminding me of what happened in Monaco made me unable to pretend. It's useless because, in the back of my mind, I still remember every second I spent with Serena clearly.That's why I continually try to be cool around Serena, so that my animal instincts don't take over. It was difficult because Serena was deliberately baiting me.I didn't know what game she was playing. I had no interest in getting inv
Leopold P. O. V “I'm in the lobby of your office. Can we meet for lunch together?” This was the first time that a text message could make me feel helpless. I had even forgotten the last time Amanda left me a message. Until this afternoon, when suddenly there was a new message from her. “So, where to eat?” I looked away from my phone and looked at Raymond, who was waiting for me. “Amanda asked me to lunch. You're with Sarah.” Raymond looked at me with a furrowed brow. “Amanda? You're back with her?” I shuddered at the thought of that possibility turning into reality. I wasn't that stupid to restart a relationship with a demon in the form of a beautiful woman. Not after she betrayed my trust. “Never,” I said firmly. Raymond had had enough of listening to me complain about Amanda. He was one of the few people who witnessed my relationship with Amanda. He was even a witness when I got acquainted with my ex-wife. I met Amanda at the party of one investor in my company. She's stu
Serena P. O. V Running at night after work has become part of my routine with Sarah and Harry. Although only Harry really ran, Sarah and I just walked while gossiping. Later, I could smell another reason behind Sarah's invitation to run. On the same day, Mr. Raymond and Leopold were doing their weekly gym schedule. I guess I should have warned Sarah about the no dating rule in the office because I caught her alone with Mr. Raymond more and more often. It sounds hypocritical because I'm indirectly hooking up with Leopold too. It was just an act. And it was often one-sided, only from Leopold's side. I haven't found the right fee for the charade yet. “I'll be right there.” Sarah darted away from me. She ran up to Mr. Raymond, who was just coming out of the gym. Casually, Sarah wrapped her arms around Mr. Raymond's neck, and he wrapped his arms around her waist. I even saw Leopold showing an annoyed expression, to which Mr. Raymond replied with an equally annoyed reaction. Does he k
Serena P. O. V After the kiss that night, it was only now that I met Leopold again. The past two days, he has been to Paris for a conference. It seemed like I was the only one affected by the kiss. Leopold was the opposite. That night, I couldn't sleep. I regretted not inviting Leopold over to my house. If I could turn back time, I would have offered to have him spend the night in my room with me. So I could repeat that passionate night in Monaco. It was all my fault. It riddled me with doubt and unsure of what I was seeing. I interpreted Leopold's gaze to mean that he wanted me, but something was holding him back. Instead, I wasted time hesitating. In the end, I ended up frustrating myself. That moment would never occur again. I should have made good use of it. “Deal. We'll use the Sunrise Tour. Their quotation makes more sense for the price. The reviews are excellent, too.” Leopold's words brought me back to the present, to the center of the meeting room. I'm reminded that I'
Serena P. O. VLeopold pressed the back of my head. I could feel his large palm holding my nape from moving and returning his kiss.I buried my fingers in his hair. My eyes were closed, enjoying Leopold's kiss. He plays with my lips, not giving me the slightest chance of escaping. His kiss is so dominating, there is no tenderness behind it, only the unstoppable demands of lust. His arms wrapped around me and buried me deep.If anyone asked me what my name was, I didn't know the answer. Leopold's figure fills my mind as he carries me into his warm embrace.I gasped when I felt Leopold's hand move to my back. He pulled me closer to his body. The heat overwhelmed me, making my desire even more intense. “Sir…”“Psttt… let me kiss your body, Serena.” Leopold growled lowly. His lips brushed the skin of my cheek, and then he kissed it for a long time.I gasped again when Leopold slipped his hand inside my clothes. The heat burned my body even more. And when I felt his large hands cup my br
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