Serena POVI had to drive Leopold back to the office. Our steps halted before the open entrance, greeting us with the usual aura of bustle. The surrounding air was tense, reflecting the commotion that had just taken place.The wound on Leopold's face glowed a red color that contrasted with his tan skin. The fight with Uncle Frederick made him look fragile, even though his body was still upright.Love can be an intoxicating poison, making people do things beyond reason. And love in the wrong place transforms into a disaster that destroys everything.Like others, I also got entangled in the same web of emotions. I should have been able to stay away from Leopold, but seeing his injuries made my heart tremble, forcing me to stay by his side.Uncle Frederick was waiting in the office lobby. Despite my hesitation, I couldn't avoid this meeting. When I arrived, the scene I encountered was unexpected: Uncle Frederick angrily attacked Leopold.“Why didn't you hit him back?” I asked, trying to
Leopold POV“Goddamn it!” I yelled, hurling the glass across the kitchen island, watching it shatter into a thousand pieces upon hitting the floor. It joined the shards of a beer bottle already broken from my previous outburst.Why do we have to mess everything up?I can't shake Serena from my mind. Her wounded expression was haunting me, her confession echoing in my head, refusing to be pushed away.“Argh…” I punched the wall, ignoring the blood oozing from my bruised knuckles, just another casualty of my rage. How did it come to this? I yanked at my hair, hoping desperately that this chaos was nothing but a nightmare from which I'd soon wake.Of all the people in the world, Serena was the last one I wanted to hurt. Yet tonight, I've managed just that.I never wanted Serena to love me. She shouldn't have fallen for me. She despises cheaters, and she knows I've been toying with Erna behind Amanda's back. Whatever the reasons, it still amounts to betrayal. It should have been enough t
Serena POV “Serena, I can never understand why you never want to exercise.”“Lazy,” I replied and shook my head, leaving Harry to roll his eyes in annoyance before finally leaving me alone.I really didn't have the energy to run. Even just getting through the day was too much for me.I wanted so badly to just curl up in bed, ignoring everything that required me to go to the office or do anything. But even lying in bed would only make me think of Leopold.Every corner of the room, every single thing in it—everything reminded me of him. I hated him. But ironically, I also missed him. It hurt me even more that he left like that, leaving me with a broken heart.“Come on, let's wait for Harry at the coffee café.” Sarah, coming over, tried to pull me out of my reverie.Nevertheless, in that instant, I regretted agreeing to Sarah's invitation. This park in the city center—every corner of it reminds me of Leopold. As I passed by the gym, I remembered the time Leopold helped me work out.No m
Leopold POVGabriel and Gracie, the twins, dominated my life from the moment I arrived at my parents' house. They became the center of my attention, drawing me into their busy routines. Take them to school, accompany Gracie to ballet lessons, and watch Gabriel play basketball. They were my savior from loneliness, my solace from the troubles I'd let slip away in California.But as time passed, the image of California haunted me more and more. The nights alone and the silence only invited memories that I wanted to hide. Nothing could prevent my mind from drifting to California, remembering Serena, and longing for her presence.As my eyes closed, Serena appeared in my mind. Even though distance separated us, her presence felt so real and so close.I couldn't ignore her piercing words, calling me a coward. That's right. I ran away, leaving her without a word. A cowardly act that is imprinted in my memory.“Can I sit here?”The stern voice broke the silence, and I looked up. My father pull
Serena POVI could hardly believe my eyes when I saw Maximus standing in front of my house. A quiet curse escaped my lips as soon as our eyes met. If only I had the courage to jump into a taxi and drive away from here.“Good evening, Serena,” he greeted, his voice calm yet igniting the embers of anger within me.Hearing his voice, I snorted in annoyance. “What is it again?”It is unclear to me why I was so fiery. Maybe later, when my heart was calmer, I would apologize to him for being the target of my anger.Maximus opened the car door, and I couldn't believe that my father was there waiting for me. “Let's get in. We have no more time,” Dad said in a stern tone, without looking at me.I wished I could change my clothes first, but Dad's gaze shot through me like an arrow.“No, you don't have to. No matter what you do, you're still like that,” he said, his voice full of judgment.Dad was supposed to be my source of strength, but this time, he'd only weakened me further. Reluctantly, I
Serena POV “What the hell are you doing?” Hardin looks at Dad. “Do you believe what he says?” “Kevin already explained the chronology of what happened. But why did you go so far?” My father asked Hardin back. “Because all I heard was a bullshit excuse. Kevin has been harassing Serena. And as an older brother, I am entitled to beat him to death if necessary.” I'm stunned on the spot, not in the least expecting Hardin to defend me. He's been so cold all this time. Hardin has never shown his feelings, not even to me. Even as a child, my father molded Hardin into a strong, eldest boy. He forced Hardin to do physical training to qualify as the best army graduate. He also forbade Hardin to show his feelings because, in his eyes, affection was a symbol of weakness. “We cancel this engagement plan. I don't want Kevin to marry Serena,” said Aunt Fany, who approached Kevin and gave me a hostile look. “Good because I wouldn't allow Serena to tie the knot with Kevin either,” Hardin replied i
Leopold POVIn my family, the tradition of exchanging gifts on the eve of our parents' wedding celebration has become part of our unforgettable childhood memories. The focus may now be on Gabriel and Gracie, but the memory of the rivalry between my sister and me lingers.It brings back memories of how we used to compete for the best, biggest, and most expensive gifts. Even though our parents were always fair and gave the same gifts. However, it's all just sweet memories that are imprinted in the mind.Spending a whole day seeking gifts was like tracing a trail of memories that flowed fast. My twin niece and nephew had written their wish lists clearly, like directions for a guardian angel. And that task fell to me.My younger sister, with all confidence, appointed me as the “guardian angel of the year” and entrusted me with the twins' wish list. So, without hesitation, I went from shop to shop, through the cold Swedish air, to collect the gifts they had been dreaming of. Despite the c
Serena POV“Carefree life. Happy with solitude!” I exclaimed as I raised my glass of white wine to cheers from Renesmee and Eloise. This was a new beginning for me. A new status as a single woman, free from relationships with any men.Eloise firmly persuaded me to go to the Eros Pub, trying to forget all the turmoil that was poisoning my heart. Renesmee, who was always spontaneous, unhesitatingly, agreed to Eloise's invitation. At first, I wasn't interested. Clubbing was boring. It was more comfortable for me to stay at home, cuddling my favorite cat.However, my two friends didn't allow that to happen. They pulled me out of bed, even waiting outside the bathroom door until I was done.Eloise forced me to wear one of the fancy dresses from my collection: Lorie Red Lace Cocktail Party Gowns Mini Glitter. It's a maroon mini dress that's extremely uncomfortable, as it reveals off my curves.But Eloise is busy polishing my face with alluring, glamorous makeup and applying a seductive red
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