Raymond’s POV I walked to the event hall and sat next to Violet. Still reeling in thoughts a tiny voice pierced through my ears and interrupted me. “I have been looking for you. Where were you?” she asked while fixing her eyes on the stage’s show. As she said these words to me suddenly my nostrils flared, my cheekbones pushed up to my glaring lower lids, and a furrowed forehead, as my lips curved into a snarling grimace Trying to control my failing emotions I took a deep breath and averted my gaze back to the stage. It was obvious that I wasn't in the mood to talk to anyone, I wanted to be left alone and focus on the queries swirling in my head. “Why did you suddenly go mute?” She asked with a twinge of concern in her voice as she stretched out her right hand and began touching my face. “What’s the matter, Ray?” she questioned as she ran her fingers through my beard. Little did she know that all her showcase of affection towards me was starting to make my blood boil. Immedi
Elena’s POVWith a high head, I confidently entered my first-ever workplace.Hmm.. I sighed, I could sense the feeling of independence gushing all over me as I couldn't contain the excitement of having a job.I got into the reception putting one foot in front of the other and walked past the front desk manager into the office hallway as a warm light up my entire face.I watched other workers murmur in extremely low tones, I didn't mind their tittle-tattle because I was excited that I had finally gotten a job, a proper one at that that would be used to cater for me and my little one.All I wanted was to stand on my feet as a single mother who has the sole responsibility of caring for her baby and this job is an answered prayer to those silent wishes.“You don't have to grin like a Cheshire cat younnoo… else, the people here would assume that you are one weird freak”, a voice said behind me, breaking into my thoughts.I spun around to find who it was and fortunately, it was Raymond! H
Raymond’s POVI stood beside Violet, my face flushed with emotions mixed with anger and frustration.“I’m so sorry. I d-d-didn't mean to.…” she fumbled for words as she tried to explain herself but shut her mouth immediately i gave her a cold stare.“Why did you have to do it here? You’ve ruined my opportunity to get close to Elena”. “If Dad had known that things would turn rancid, he would have left you in the other branch”. I mumbledShe sauntered close to me, lurching her hand into mine, and stared at me deeply.“Raymond,” Violet called softly, searching for a deep sense of connection and understanding in my heart.“You and I know that you don’t love her. You were forced into this marriage.” You didn’t have a say in all these, " Violet said with a barely whisper voice. She ran her fingers across my broad chest seductively as she bit her lips slowly, trying so hard to annihilate the rage burning in my heart.“You are mine, mine alone. I love you, Raymond. I honestly do.” She pleade
Raymond’s POVMy sleek black car pulled up at the company’s parking garage. I noticed the chaos in the air but I chose to stay unfazed.The cops were stationed at every corner, armed to the teeth.“Show off,” I mumbled as I got out of my car.I calculated my steps bit by bit as I strutted towards the detective.I flashed him a smile and shook his hand as we exchanged pleasantries.“Where is she?” I asked, my gaze darting to every corner in search of Violet. “Don’t tell me she escaped from your men?” I raised my brow. “She didn’t,” he said assured me, with a sly smile appearing on his face.“She wouldn’t let us take her unless she sees you. She locked herself in your office.“Really? She’s such a freak” I mocked, dragging my feet into the company. I got to my office and pleaded with her to let me in. “I’ll let you in if the cops don't follow suit”, Violet commanded.I promised to give her a listening ear and agreed to listen to all the gibberish she’d say for the last time.The cur
Chapter 24 Elena's POV“Can we head home now?” asked Raymond, distracting me from the show. I tried so hard to ignore his persistent questions but it seemed like he wasn't giving up.“Elena, haven't you watched enough?” Raymond asked again in a calm tone.“I haven't,” I replied without looking at his direction. The show had completely enticed me and it was worth my attention.“Alright, I’ll head for gents with Hope. Would be back before you know it,” he said, rising to his feet.He left the audition and headed out and, I didn't care. All I wanted was to be possessed by the musical notes.The singer's voice soared, dancing with the notes as his emotions swept through every word he sang. It was like a symphony of the soul. Just as I was humming the lyrics of the music, the lights tripped off and the audition came to a false halt. “Fuck!” I yelled so loud in frustration that everyone looked at me. “I’m so sorry,” I said, trying to free mys
RAYMOND’S POVI sat on the empty chair under the magazine shade, a cigarette dangling from my lips as flickered the lighter, drawing a long slow drag from the smoke.“What the hell is taking him so long?” I mumbled to myself, impatiently waiting for Mike.Another inhale, another exhale, the air around me growing thicker with smoke as I tapped my feet repeatedly on the floor.My eyes averted through the bustling city, in search of him. We planned on meeting at the western park, but why wasn't he here? Was his flight delayed? Then, from the corner of the streets, I could see him. He strode like a peacock, his sense of dressing oozing with a charm that had won him countless hearts in the city, especially the ladies. “What’s up, mate?” He asked, his voice dripping in a black American accent. He stretched forth his hand for a handshake as he gaped deep into my eyes. I reluctantly extended out mine and we shook.“What took you so long?” I asked, raising my brow. My voice was husky, showi
Raymond's POV My fingers continuously drummed an agitated rhythm on the steering wheel, a clear expression that I was growing impatient.“What on earth are they still doing in the hotel?” I mumbled, my voice was heavy in anger.I stole a glance at my wristwatch and realized that two hours had passed since Elena and my father had disappeared into the hotel.“Fuck it!” I exclaimed as I swung open my car's door and climbed down, shutting it angrily.I stormed into the hotel as if I were chased by a wild goose.I walked over to the receptionist, ignoring the piercing eyes of the hotel's staff.“The Laurence. Where did they head to?” I questioned, my voice hoarse.The receptionist; a young beautiful girl, stared at me for a brief moment, as if scrutinizing my features.“You’re Raymond, I guess,” She said seductively while looking me in the eyes.I was thrown off balance by her lack of emotional control. Couldn't she notice my grim face? I was in no mood to flirt with her.“Are you seriou
ELENA’S POVThe rays of the sun crept down the window blinds and rested on my eyelids. I woke up to greet one of the most important days of the Lauren family; Ralph's wedding. My eyes fluttered open, only to realize the other side of the bed was empty. Raymond didn't return from the bachelor's party. I sat upright and my eyes scanned the room for nothing in particular. “Today is going to be a big day,” I whispered as I dragged my feet off the bed and into the bathroom.I turned on the shower and the warm liquid cascaded down my body, enveloping me like a warm embrace; Just what I needed to start my morning.With a towel wrapped snugly around my waist, I stepped into the bedroom, the rhythmic rustle of fabric against my skin as I slipped into my clothes signaling my readiness to join the Laurence household in the buzzing excitement of the day.From the mezzanine, I looked out over the bustle of activity below. Every servant and steward moved with purpose, their feet tapping a steady
Elena's Point of ViewI stood in the poorly illuminated room, tears streaming down my face as I recounted everything I'd been through—the loss, the pain, the gain… everything.I hugged myself, memories of my son flashing before my eyes. I could still see him running toward me and planting kisses on my face. I shut my eyes, letting the tears fall freely, hoping that maybe the pain would go away if I just admitted that I was hurt. I could still hear Ralph's deep voice speaking to me:“Elena, stay strong. Raymond might be a jerk, but once you understand him, you'll be cool with him,” he would tell me each time he saw me drowning in pain.Now, they were all gone. The building made me feel a little uncomfortable with its tranquil state. Raymond, on the other hand, had always been moody, unwilling to discuss anything with me.I wiped my tears with the edge of my palm and stood up. Today, my father-in-law would be buried at the cemetery.I glanced at the mirror. I was dressed in a dark gown,
Raymond's point of viewThe sitting room was filled with laughter and sift clinging of glasses, particularly from my friends. I had invited only a few friends; we didn't want to make it known to avoid the prying eyes of the journalists.My father sat on the stool like a king with a warm smile, watching my friends drink to their satisfaction; it was his birthday.“Where is the baker?” I asked, my mom's eyes scanning the room as I searched for her. Just then, she walked in with the cake cradled in her hand. Her face was covered with a veil; she was an Indian, and maybe she was respecting her culture. I knew little about Indian culture. She had tattoos on her hand, which I observed as she slowly dropped the cake on the table.“I should be taking my leave,” she whispered, her voice tiny.“So early?” Elena asked, walking up to her.“Yeah, I've got some unfinished business to attend to,” she replied, her voice firm.Elena tried protesting, but I stopped her just in time with a kiss, which
Alana's Point of ViewI sat in the corner of the room, my eyes stretched wide as I focused on the window. Cadwell Psychiatric Hospital could be defined as hell. My hair was unkempt and untangled, resting on my pale face, and my clothes were loose, hanging on my shrugged shoulders. I had spent two months in this hell, and no one bothered to reach out to me.I dragged my hair and groaned, my eyes reddening as I thought about Elena. Her life was fixed, and mine was damaged.Just then, a lady walked into the room with a guard, her face pale.“Alana Laurence, you have a visitor,” she said. Visitor? That sounded like a word foreign to my life.I stood from the marble floor and strutted out of the room with her. My heart sank as I stared at Violet on the other end of the table, a smile crawling up her lips. Her hair was tinted, her lips crimson, and she wore a long red gown. She stole my breath away at that moment.She picked up the phone at the other end, her eyes urging me to do the same.
Alana's Point of ViewThe distant hum of machines could be heard, the strong scent of antiseptic evident in the air. I tossed and turned on the bed, pain coursing down my abdomen. I was at the hospital; even without opening my eyes, I knew it.The low, distant chatter of patients and doctors added to my unease, and I had no other option but to let my eyes open.“Damn it,” I cursed, sitting upright. Sweat raced down my forehead as I stared at the doctors and nurses running around me.“She is awake, Doctor,” one of the nurses said, signaling the attention of Doctor Lucas.Maintaining his friendly demeanor, he walked over to me, a smile spreading across his lips.“Alana, welcome on board,” he teased, trying to lighten the tense atmosphere. Honestly, his sense of humor sucked. I couldn't believe that I had come to the hospital after being pushed down by Elena.“How do you feel?” he asked, a hint of concern in his voice.“Better,” I grumbled. To be honest, I felt that he should shut up and
Elena's point of viewEver since my stepmother's burial, Alana's health has deteriorated. She had handled her departure like a grown woman, but now she acts like she lost it. Her change of behavior was secretly causing an alarm. I don't mean to use the word, but she acted insane.“You awake this morning?” Raymond's voice sliced through the air, startling me from my thoughts. A smile tugged beside my lips as he leaned in, his hands cupping my boobs. He pressed my nipples, and I let out a soft moan.“What's bothering my angel?” He asked, his voice hoarse.“Nothin’.” I replied, relaxing on his chest, his cologne dominating the air.“Alright, if you say so,” he whispered, biting my ear, and I giggled in response.“You going to jog today?” I asked, playing with his darkened nipples, which were perched on his muscular pecs.“The only exercise I want to do is with you,” he whispered, rolling me over and staying on top of me. I could feel his bulge harden on my stomach, our gaze fixated for
Alana's point of viewMy eyes were weary as I stared on a pillar, trying to avoid everyone's attention from my direction. The hot, steamy chocolate coffee enveloped the air. I reached out and took a sip, my eyes still fixated on the pillars. It wasn't easy acting like I was grieving my mother; well, I was good at what I did. It was obvious I was better than I had given myself credit for.Raymond stared at me from a distance as he played with Hope. I wasn't a telepath, but I was sure whatever was going on in his mind was clearly not good. The news felt unbelievable in his ears. It was pretty obvious that he wasn't convinced that my mother died so fast, even after he demanded an autopsy.I got up from the couch, walked over to the table, and dropped the coffee cup. I could notice his gaze trailing behind me as I walked out sobbing. I had requested an emergency burial for mom; the authorities had their doubts, but I seventy had my way after so many pleadings from my lawyer and my surna
Alana's point of viewI could feel anger course through my veins as I paced back and forth.My mother had one job to do, and now she screwed it up. If she was as smart as she claimed to be, I wouldn't be stuck in this mess.My knuckles collided with the pillars, and my brows arched as I stared at the mirror in front of me. The beating of my heart quickened as I bit my lips. I rolled my eyes in anger, sinking into the soft mattress. I was torn apart between seeing my mother's face and staying back at home. With a frustrated sigh, I rose, dragging my feet across my spacious room. Striding gracefully with a poised elegance, I walked down the stairs, Elena's gaze trailing behind. She had halted her lively conversation after she saw me. My shoulders shrugged, and I walked outside the sitting room and into my car. The car swerved through the streets, and I got to the police station in no time.The harsh fluorescent light of the prison visiting room flickered slightly as I walked in, my f
Elena's point of viewThe afternoon sun streamed down the window, casting warm glows on the floor.My hand grasped the baking pan as I carefully grazed butter on it, humming my favorite song ‘Bad Guy by Billie Eilish.’ It was Hope's birthday; he just turned six, and we decided to throw a little party. I had chosen not to allow my dad's condition to take a toll on me for now.The scent of freshly baked chocolate cake wafted through the atmosphere, perching on my nostrils. I stood erect as my eyes scanned the kitchen for any other thing that needed to be done; thankfully there was none.Quickly, I dropped everything I was holding and walked into the shower cubicle to wash away the day's exhaustion and grimness. As the cool liquid ran down my spine, I felt a sigh of relief engulf me. Seconds stretched into minutes, and I was done with my bath. Just as I was about to select a gown from the vast collection of clothing in my wardrobe, my eyes rested on the CD, which stayed lazily on the n
Elena's Pov.I was seated by the balcony and delighted in the refreshing cool breeze and invigorating fresh air, which provided much-needed comfort for my stressed body.Been pretty stressed lately, and I was advised by Doctor Lucas to have enough rest. The sweet melodies of the birds nearby transferred a calm sensation into my soul.So lost in thoughts, I jerked upon hearing the shrill sound of my phone ringing. I got back into my bedroom to check who the caller was. On realizing that it was my father's doctor, I picked it up instantly.“Good evening, doctor, please, how is my father doing?” “I am so sorry to break this news to you, Elena; your father passed on in the early hours of the day,” he explained with sadness evident in his voice. What! How!“This isn't happening, W- What happened?” I stuttered with short breaths. My heart raced rapidly as my fears began to resurface. I could feel sweat beads forming on my forehead even with the cool breeze that filled the air.“I have in