The words echoed in Jeremy's mind like a relentless drumbeat. "Did Elena deserve what she got when she was trying to protect you?" He couldn't escape the haunting question. Thoughts of Elena consumed him, leading him down a path of self-destruction, just as he had experienced when she died. His focus at work was slipping, and he found himself constantly losing his temper. It had been three days since Drake Lockman's call, but Jeremy could vividly recall every word that had been said. The memory of Drake's annoying voice replayed in his head, amplifying his frustration. Jeremy knew he had to handle Drake Lockman, no matter the cost. He reminded himself to be patient and find him. He wouldn't allow the threats to overpower him. Yet, beneath all the turmoil, Jeremy recognized the true source of his distress. It wasn't just Drake Lockman and his menacing words. It was the guilt that gnawed at his core, an unshakeable burden he carried within his heart. The weight of it all felt unbeara
Chapter 47: Pool Party Steve, Melissa, and Nicky arrived at Steve's magnificent house, a sprawling two-story building that left them in awe. The compound featured a central fountain and a charming park adorned with vibrant flowers and lush greenery. It was a sight to behold. "Is this really your house?" Nicky asked, her amazement evident. This was undoubtedly one of the most beautiful homes she had ever laid eyes on. Steve, pleased with her reaction, confirmed that it was indeed his house, conveniently omitting the fact that it was his family's vacation home. Whenever they visited the States, they stayed there. However, for the time being, he called it his own. As the girls stepped into the house, Melissa couldn't help but agree with Nicky's sentiment. The interior was equally breathtaking. Upon entering, their eyes were immediately drawn to an exquisite chandelier hanging from above. Elegant lamps adorned the ceiling, casting a warm and inviting glow. With white ceramic tiles and
Jeremy and Tony arrived at Steve's house, greeted by the butler who escorted them upstairs to where Tony was already seated, enjoying his pre-party drinks. "Hey, you made it," Steve exclaimed, a warm smile on his face. "Yeah, we did. Seems like we're a little early, though," Tony replied. "The party doesn't start until ten, but join me and have some drinks," Steve suggested enthusiastically. "Sure, why not? But remember, you still owe me big time. It was a real challenge convincing Jeremy to come here with me," Tony reminded him, a playful tone in his voice. Steve chuckled, brushing off Jeremy's presence. "Still haven't figured out what's bothering him?" he asked, seemingly oblivious to Jeremy standing right in front of him. "No, not yet. You know how he is, stubborn as a rock," Tony replied, shaking his head slightly. Steve joined in on the laughter, understanding Jeremy's nature all too well. Meanwhile, Jeremy chose to ignore their banter, finding solace in removing his jacket
Chapter 49: Pearl Earrings It was ten o'clock, and the party had kicked off downstairs. Melissa and Nicky were getting ready in the guest room, adding final touches to their outfits. Nicky looked stunning in a sleek black bikini that accentuated her figure. She let her luscious hair down and wrapped herself in a towel and bathrobe. "I'm ready to go," Nicky announced, slipping on a pair of stylish flip-flops. "Me too," Melissa replied. She had opted for a chic white dress, not wanting to reveal too much skin or join the pool activities. Her plan for the night was to socialize, enjoy some delicious food, and savor refreshing drinks. She believed that would be enough. The plain dress seemed fitting for her purpose. "Oh, come on, Melissa, at least put in some effort," Nicky playfully nudged. "What? You don't like the dress?" Melissa asked, raising an eyebrow. "Yes." Nicky replied, eliciting an eye roll from Melissa. "Can you at least add some accessories. How about a black belt? Oh,
Melissa walked out of the party, feeling overwhelmed and in need of some solitude. She decided to retreat to the gardens, away from prying eyes and potential embarrassment. She would return to the party later to search for Nicky's pearl earrings, but for now, she wanted to gather her thoughts. What was wrong with her? How could she forget she was still under the table, and why did she stare at Jeremy as if he were some irresistible dessert? It was all so foolish. As she tried to calm herself, she heard footsteps behind her. She turned around and was surprised to find Jeremy standing there. He was the last person she wanted to see at that moment, and she could feel her face reddening again. How silly. "Are you following me?" Melissa asked, her tone laced with rudeness. She didn't appreciate being followed, especially by someone who she was trying to hide from. "Calm down. We wouldn't want your face to change colors now, would we?" Jeremy replied, his voice tinged with teasing amuseme
Melissa woke up with a contented smile on her face, her heart still brimming with the memories of last night. She snuggled the pillow next to her, relishing in the warmth it provided. As she wondered about the time, she reached for her phone and discovered it was already noon. She had slept like a baby, despite staying up late with Jeremy in the garden. Feeling refreshed, Melissa got out of bed and made her way to the bathroom. It was then that she realized Nicky wasn't in the room. In fact, she hadn't been there the previous night either. Curious, Melissa pondered about Nicky's whereabouts when a soft knock on the door interrupted her thoughts. "Come in," Melissa called out. Ruth, the kind-hearted housekeeper, entered the room with a warm smile. "You're awake, and judging by the smile on your face, you must have slept well," Ruth remarked sweetly. "Yes, I did," Melissa replied with a smile of her own. "By any chance, have you seen Nicky? She didn't spend the night here." "Oh, ye
Melissa gracefully stepped out of the sleek black Rolls-Royce that Jeremy had thoughtfully sent to pick her up. It had been weeks since she had expressed her desire to paint him, drawn to his unique facial features, and today he had finally found the time to make it happen. Jeremy had invited her to his magnificent house, where she now found herself. As Melissa entered the villa, she was immediately captivated by its distinct charm. The space exuded elegance, with its tastefully chosen furnishings and a subtle undertone of mystery. The walls, adorned in shades of grey and black, were like abstract works of art in their own right. She was led into a cozy and inviting living room, complete with plush white sofas, and was asked to wait there while Jeremy concluded a video conference. Initially, Melissa sat patiently on the luxurious sofa, but her artistic spirit soon yearned for exploration. She couldn't resist the urge to acquaint herself with her surroundings. Taking a leisurely strol
Chapter 53: Drake Lockman and his wifeDrake Lockman sat in his penthouse in Switzerland he was laying low for a while. After his little stunt with the Woods family he was now under police investigation, Jeremy must have tipped them off. No suprises there. He wasn't happy about his current situation. His lawyers assured him everything would be fine, He just had to lay low. He hated the feeling of powerlessness. He paced around the room for a while. He could just send a message to one of his insiders to just walzs in and shoot Jeremy in the head but being the man that he is he didn't just want Jeremy dead he wanted him to suffer, just like he had suffered when Jeremy took his brother away from him, the only family he had left in the world. He groaned in pain as he grabbed his forehead, he wasn't in any physical pain but an emotional one, no could possibly understand what he had been through. The rage in his heart had intensified at that very moment, but then, his beautiful wife wal