Raymond’s POV“Ugh, work day again,” I mumbled, struggling to get out of bed. I looked around the bedroom and noticed that Elena was up already. "Shit, it's almost 9 a.m.“ I yelled as my eyes met the wall clock immediately. I dashed into the bathroom. The warm drops of water made the tension in my muscles calm. While leathering Dr. Squatch Men's Natural Bar Soap, I could feel a warm sensation soothing my skin as my thoughts raced to the activities of the day.With a contented sigh, I picked up my bath towel, caressing my body and feeling its gentleness till every drop of water was gone.I slid my feet into my bath slippers and stepped out of the bathroom. I found myself tapping my chin in deep thought, trying to decide on the perfect outfit for the day. “Hmm, what would be the chosen outfit of the day?” I mumbled as my fingers rallied around the outfits in my closet. “Perfect! This would do,” I said as I decided on a crisp white dress shirt over a navy blue suit with a fitted blaz
Alana's POVI stood at the threshold, rubbing red lipstick on my lips. I had already styled my hair to what I would call “perfection.”. I slipped into my heels and finally stole one last glimpse of my beauty before I rushed out of the room.Raymond! I called out, trying to find out where we were. I rushed downstairs and called out his name again, but I was met with Mary's grumpy face."Maam,” he left. He mentioned that he had an early meeting, said Mary. “Okay, so I’ll be left alone,” I mumbled, tracing my steps back to my bedroom and mapping out my activities for the day.Immediately, I jumped into the bathroom and was out in no time, rallying around my room for the perfect outfit for the day.The red short gown I wore gripped me tightly in the right place, making the curves look more visible.I slipped into my car, my grip firm on the steering wheel.Just as I was about to insert the key, the buzzing of my phone could be heard.I rolled my eyes as I picked it up and squinted to m
Alana's POVAll the puzzles were coming together, and things turned out to be good.The rain came down in rhythm, running across the screen. I stole a glance at my mother from the rear mirror; she looked lost. She had been cold ever since we met Davon.“Mother!” I called, anticipating a reaction, but all I got was silence. I couldn't help but wonder what was running through Mother's head; I haven't seen her get lost in thoughts.“Mum?” I called her again and jolted her out of her thoughts. This time, my voice was louder than usual.“Why are you being weird?” I asked, curiosity laced in the tone of my voice.“Nothing,” my mom replied, her voice cold as she looked out of the window, observing the trees and humans as they passed by.“I’m not buying that reply, mother. Why on earth do you look worried?” I asked again, already getting frustrated. Is she hiding something from me? I asked no one in particular.“Alana, she began, her voice barely a whisper. “Some things are better left unsai
Alana's POVI smoothed lipstick on my lips as I stood, watching my reflection in the mirror.“You are nothing but a queen, Alana,” I whispered, walking out of the room and into my car. The ride to the office was fun, with different thoughts swirling in my head.I pulled up at the company's garage. Stepping into the office through the glass door, I was welcomed by the hum of productivity from my workers. I flashed them a satisfactory smile as I strode to my office with poised elegance. Today was the first day I was taking over my father's company, even though I had no knowledge of the work's rules and regulations.I stood at the door, looking at my name, which was engraved on it: “Alana Laurence, Managing Director.”I smirked, pushing the door open with a hint of pride in my steps as I walked to my black leather chair.The sun streamed down from the Italian window, casting a warm glow on the interior decor. The sculptures and artworks added to the beauty of the office.Just as I sat do
Alana's POV.My eyes fluttered open, and I squinted, getting my pupils accustomed to the light rays.I say upright, my gaze fixated on the vase flower that stood on the nightstand. Tracing my feet into the bathroom, I turned the shower with its steam, feeling the air, and the water fell on my body, washing away the grime of the night and other thoughts that followed.My gaze swept across the bathroom, my eyes stretching and falling on my favorite deep-cleanse antiseptic beauty soap. I scrubbed it all over my body as its floral fragrance hung heavy in the air, the foam feeling my body as I caressed it gently.In no time, the following water washed off the leather. I walked into my room, my hand moving through the clothes that I hung in the wardrobe.“There you go,” I said, picking out my favorite purple shirt. I found myself deeply enamored with the color purple, almost to the point where it feels like my own personal trademark. I whispered to myself, acknowledging the special connect
Alana's point of viewThe words were deafening, and I was dumbfounded.“That isn't true, Alana. I don't know what he is saying,” my mother said, walking close to me.Davon heaved an audible sigh. “You got to let her know that I am her father,” Davon yelled.My gaze shifted between my mother and Davon. Was this claim true? How was Davon, my father? Had they known each other for a while?I shook my head, trying to shake off the questions swirling in my head. I could feel my knees go weak, and I leaned against a wall, my lips pressed together in a thin line.“I don't want to believe this, Davon,” I said, my voice firm.“The hell? Ask Lucia,” a twinge of frustration laced his voice. “Your mother and I had something in the past, and the result is you, Alana,” Davon said.Something about the words he said sounded true, even though they were venomous to the ear.I felt a little dizzy as I stared at the blank floor, tapping my foot, my hand wrapping around my waist.“Alana, you don't believ
Alana's point of view I got my hands on the paper forcefully, my eyes running across the content and widening. “It’s stated here that you are not my father,” I exclaimed, the joy I felt undeniable by my facial expression. This was it—the news I had been waiting for. The ears that once eloped my mind vanished without a trace. My mother was already in tears, breaking down and sobbing uncontrollably. I couldn't believe I had thought she cheated on my father with Davon. I took a deep exhale and walked over to her, my hand wrapping around her neck as I whispered to her. “I'm sorry for misjudging you, mom. I…” I stammered, unsure of how to fix my words. I raised my head slowly, my eye balls stretching and falling on Davon's face. He stood, confusion running across his face. This wasn't what he expected; claiming ownership of me was his goal; perhaps he wanted to use the medium and get a grip on the Woods company. Well, none of that would happen on my watch. He stepped back a little b
Alana's point of viewI woke up with a pounding headache, and my mouth was as dry as a feather. The morning light filtered through the curtains, piercing my eyes and making me squint.“Fuck!” I groaned as I rubbed my temples. The room spun slightly, my body protesting with every movement.With great effort, I swung my feet over the edge of the bed and attempted to stand, only to stagger and fall down. Pain coursed down my underbelly. Well, my body was right to protest; it was strained and stretched the previous night.I steadied my gaze, and I turned around to see a muscular figure in the curtains, staring at me with a charming smile running across his lips. It was Raymond; he was still in briefs, making his bulge prints visible.With a glance at my shoulder, I could see faint marks on my fair, delicate skin.“What are you staring at?” I asked, frowning a little bit.He smirked as he walked close to me.“Nothing. I'm just admiring your face,” he said, still maintaining the grin on his
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