(Stephen's POV)With irritation after Kendall left, I paced to and fro my study room, remembering the words she hurled at me earlier after ordering her to pack into my mansion within three days. My anger was fuelled more as her words kept echoing inside my head. I wished I could show her her place when she summoned the effrontery to yell at me and call me names. But I did nothing. I just watched her run her mouth like a tap.She called me arrogant. She said I was stupid and that I wasn't meant to be tagged as human. She said I was supposed to be living in the jungle where my mates belonged. F**k!!Not even Antonio had the audacity she had. To avoid unleashing my anger and murdering a mother of three beautiful children, I had to hold myself back from giving her another round of beating.It was her guts for me. Imagine reprimanding someone who would save her life despite her impoverished state. Was she even expecting me to thank her because she added make-up to cover up the injuries o
(Kendall's POV)"You have three days to move in... Wife!" he ordered in his usual harsh tone and for some unknown reason, my head sparked I was pissed up like hell.Who told him I was his wife yet? I felt he was going to apologize to me for acquiring evidence to bail him. I even thought that he wanted to compliment me for the kindness I bestowed upon him even though he did not deserve it if not for Antonio who had pleaded.I was only fuming in anger without saying anything as he left the window and marched forward to me. If not for his cold aura and irresponsible attitude, he could have worn my heart with his built body when I was still younger."Are you done checking me out?" His voice jerked me off my thoughts and I rolled my eyes at him."Who do you think you are?" I blurted out, stepping away from him."Of course, I am Stephen DeLaCruz and you and your family are going to move into this mansion in three days!"Honestly, it was not me moving into this mansion that vexed me. It was h
(Kendall's POV)With my arms outstretched, I ran to my girls and clung to them carefully. At that moment, it felt as though the whole world stood still. Nothing mattered at that moment except my girls. Nothing!!Peace and joy flooded my heart with ecstasy and placidity. This time, it was not a tear that escaped my eyes, but an ocean of profuse salty water. Like prisoners set free, the tears all streamed down my chin as I bent to hug my girls."Mummy, why are you crying?" Claura asked, noticing the wetness on my chin."I'm just happy to see you and your sister," I replied, hugging them a little tighter and dropping a kiss on their foreheads."How is our sister and grandma?" Flora added as I caressed her dark black hair.She was the only one out of the three with long curly black hair. Though Laura's hair and Flora's were also long, they were honey-colored and wavy like mine."Who is ready to go home?" I requested cheerfully."Me! Mommy""Me too, Mommy," Clara and Flora chorused in uniso
(Stephen's POV)In one section of my bedroom where I treat office files, I was working with Antonio when my phone beeped. My instinct told me it was going to be from Kendall and I smiled mischievously with a smirk on my face as I checked my phone and affirmed she was truly the one.She had sent me a text apologizing and agreeing to move in."What is that?" Antonio, who had been going through a file I ordered him to, asked after he caught sight of the devilish smile on my face.I tittered as my lips expanded and I tossed the phone to him. "Take a look, yourself" I responded, touching my chin in total satisfaction.Surprised, Antonio gasped, "She apologized?""She knows fully well I am doing her impoverished self a huge favor," I replied to him, before picking up the bottle of the latest rum on my table and pouring a drink for myself."This is amazing, Esteban!" Antonio complimented.I scoffed at his comment as Antonio inquired rather strictly with a furrow on his face. "What did you do
(Stephen's POV)I rolled up the curtains of my study room as the rays of sunlight flickered through the window slides and a warm breeze flowed in. The breeze which always lightened up my mood coupled with the smell of old books made the private study the third place I loved to be aside from my bedroom and a bar, party, or anywhere that contained alcohol.Relaxing on the rare wooden chair, and enjoying the view of the early morning sun, I sipped a bit of my early morning coffee which was becoming one of my routines after my early morning jog in the garden.Having early morning walks in the garden and sometimes around the mansion was one of the ever-consistent routines with my dad, Carlos DeLaCruz.I could still recall his response when I asked him why he loved to take an early morning walk when I was seven years old."Nature is a natural drug son. Look around, the peace in the early morning wind can cure any troubling headache, boy."Smiling as I reflected on his words, I moved toward
Kendall's POVOpening my eyes, I felt relieved as the sun rose and the day was gradually unfolding. I was very exhausted from the previous day's activities. I had slumped into the bed and slept off after sending Stephen the text message.What time was it? I wondered, yawning as I stretched my body. Slanting my body toward the floor, I picked up my phone and checked the time.What?! Six o'clock!I raised my head and tilted it in the right direction to check up on the girls. Gabriella, who was still beside me, was sleeping soundly and my girls slept on their small bed like there was no problem in the universe.They wore their only colorful pajamas. Gabriella had gotten it for them three years ago at a very cheap price. The pajamas were long when she got them for my daughters.As they slept, I envied them but was heartbroken. Envious that I could no longer take a nap without struggling, and I was heartbroken because when I was about their age, I enjoyed my life to the brim. The bed in m
(Stephen's POV)Waking up from slumber was hell for me as my head banged from the effect of the alcohol I drank last night. I wriggled myself out of bed and stretched myself out, balancing on the floor. Somehow, my stomach started to make uncomfortable sounds and I knew nature was calling.I went to the toilet to empty my bowel and after flushing, I washed my hands and cleaned them with one of my favorite short towels on the towel rack. Swiftly, I changed from my pajamas into one of my armless sportswear and took a walk in the garden first. After that, I went to exercise a bit in the gym and did some routines on all of the equipment. As my eyes darted to the large clock I had placed as an antique on the entrance, I remembered I had not gotten back to Kendall after her last message.Getting off the treadmill, I gulped a mouthful of water and picked up my phone to text her. I already pinned her message so it was not difficult for me to find her and reply to her."Be ready at noon, my
(Kendall's POV)Wide awake by five in the morning. I could barely sleep, rolling and tossing back and forth. I was anxious about the new life Gab, my girls and I were about to forge. I was anxious and scared I was going to live with a man after four good years.The thought about the part of the contract I had to fulfill made me shudder. I had not and didn't intend to meet any man in that way after the one I had poured out my entire soul and body smashed and trampled on like it meant nothing to him.The reflection of the incident flashed through my mind quickly but I shrugged it off. This was not a time to think and dwell in the past Kendall. There was a new chapter for you for me and what I needed to do was how to keep the secret of Frederick being alive because I had lied to Stephen and Antonio that he was long gone.Mulling about my girls, Laura, Clara, and Flora. I wondered if they would be comfortable enough to blend in quickly. The girls I know were quite playful and energetic,
(Stephen's POV) - A YEAR AFTERMy wife and I stood side by side in front of the full-length mirror, a flurry of excitement in the air. Tonight was a momentous occasion; the event we had been planning and looking forward to for weeks. The merging of our companies was a significant step forward, and this party was our chance to celebrate with colleagues, friends, and loved ones. I adjusted my tie, glancing at my reflection, my heart racing with anticipation and nerves. "How do I look?" I asked, half-jokingly.Kendall turned to me, a playful smile on her lips. "You clean up pretty well, I must admit."Chuckling, I gave her a mock bow. "And you, my dear, look stunning." And she did — her red silk gown cascading elegantly to the floor, a perfect match for the occasion.She blushed and turned back to the mirror, fussing with her hair. "I hope I'm not overdressed. Isn't this jewelry a little too much?"I stepped closer and placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder and a soft kiss on her neck
(Stephen's POV)A few months after our wedding took place, my wife rested her head on my thighs as I caressed her protruded belly while watching our favorite family show.The doctor said her due date was just two days from now according to the gynecologist, and I was doing my best to ensure she witnessed no pain.The show's opening scenes played out, and the triplets wriggled and giggled between us, seemingly just as eager to enjoy the film.Suddenly, a hushed gasp escaped Kendall's lips, her hand instinctively reaching for her belly. I felt her tense against me, and then it happened, a rush of warm liquid and soft pop. Panic surged through me as her water broke right there on the couch."Ken, are you okay?" I asked, trying to hide my alarm.She managed a weak smile, her breathing becoming uneven as her contractions started. "I think... think it's time."My heart raced as I scrambled to my feet. Gab sprang up immediately too.My eyes darted between my wife and the kids, who were now
(Kendall's POV)My eyes sprung open, welcomed by the warm greetings of my little darlings as I exited the dreamland.Each of them held a unique bouquet and my all-time favorite chocolate bars, their faces beaming with smiles, reflecting the love and excitement that filled the air.I rubbed off my eyes and sat upright. "Good morning, my babies. How was your night's rest?""It was nice," they chorused.What's the occasion, little angels?" I asked after seeing the boxes of pizzas and strawberries beside me too. "Are these all for mummy?""Yes, mummy, look! I picked these sunflowers for you because they're as bright and beautiful as you!" Laura replied, her voice clear and smart as always."And I brought these roses for you too, Mummy. I want you to always be happy." Claura gently added."And what do we have here?" I asked, my gaze turned to Flora."Wildflowers, Mom," she responded, smiling as she stretched it towards me. "We picked them from the garden."Taking the flowers from each of t
(Kendall's POV)I returned to our master bedroom after checking up on the girls, my body heavy with the weight of the pregnancy and I felt relieved that Gab was already taking care of their baths.Since we came back to Mexico, putting things in order has been my hobby and a way of releasing the stress that comes with additional lives in the belly. Moreover, this was like an exercise.After the room felt just right, I decided it was time for a bit of relaxation and the idea of a warm bath was too tempting to resist, given the ache in my back and the swelling of my feet.Slowly, I undressed and stepped into the soothing embrace of the bathwater. The gentle lap of water against the sides of the tub created a calming rhythm, and soon I stepped out of the bathtub, feeling rejuvenated.Wrapping myself in a soft towel, I moved back to the room and began applying fragrant body cream to my skin. Just as I was lost in the soothing sensation, the door creaked open. I turned, surprised to see St
(Stephen's POV)After Kendall finished hurling the words she couldn't say when she caught them together, we left and prepared ourselves back to Mexico.A few weeks after we flew back to Mexico, I stepped into the gym, and the soft glow of the overhead lights illuminated the sleek exercise equipment that lined the room. The rubber mat beneath my feet was cool to the touch as I climbed the treadmill. With a flick of a switch, the machine hummed to life and I adjusted the settings.As I started jogging, the steady rhythm of my footsteps matched the beat of my heart. The view outside the floor-to-ceiling windows revealed my tranquil garden, still shrouded in the morning mist.The gentle whirring of the elliptical machine in the corner called out to me. Transitioning smoothly, I moved to the machine, gripping the handles as I began to pedal. The low hum of the machine and the focused burn in my muscles created a serene sense of accomplishment.Sweat began to form on my brow as the minute
Kendall's POVI woke up to the sound of a familiar voice, a voice that had become a comforting presence in my life."Arise and shine, Mrs. De La Cruz."As I blinked my eyes open, I saw Stephen humming one of my favorite songs delightfully, a song he knew I loved as he placed a tray of food on the stool close to the bed. Awwwn!."Behold the queen of the empire. Mrs. De La Cruz is awake," he uttered dramatically.I watched as he approached, his eyes never leaving mine, his love and care palpable in every step he took.The morning light filtered through the curtains, casting a warm glow on his tousled hair and the gentle smile on his lips. The aroma of freshly cooked breakfast wafted through the air, making my stomach growl in anticipation.With a gentle chuckle, he leaned over me, planting kisses all over my face as his fingers brushed against mine in a tender caress."What do we have here? You cooked?" I asked, surprised, butterflies dancing in my heart as I chuckled shyly."Just for t
(Kendall's POV)It's been over two weeks since I had been in the hospital and we're ready to leave as Gab folded my things into a packing bag. Staring out of the glass window, my heart leaped with joy that the gloomy days were over. The thought that I had forgotten who my triplets, Gab and even Stephen were caused a crack in my happy heart.I wondered why I'd be waking up uttering Fred's name. I hoped Stephen wasn't sad about it at present because I'd have flared up if he had to be in my shoes and he began to clamor Jessica's name.Also hearing the information about Antonio, I was devastated. Stephen held him in high esteem and I felt very annoyed knowing that he had ulterior motives for all he did. Very sad."Forget the past, Kendall, it's a new start now. Life has given you another chance. Don't contaminate it with the past." I cautioned myself as I rubbed my baby bump that was beginning to shoot out."Oh! You're set," the doctor voiced immediately as she entered the room, almost s
(Stephen's POV)What! I glared intensely with my mouth slightly opened as the prosecutor revealed that Antonio was in communication with Frederick and Antonio.Why didn't Jeff mention when he called me about the kids earlier?As I sat down, I wanted to yell out to the world, my heart sinking in betrayal. I suspired and managed to comport myself so as not to disturb the stillness of the courtroom."Why did you not tell me about the third party?" I growled at the prosecutor's attorney, who was smiling in victory at the way he handled the case immediately after the court session was over."I am sorry, Mr. De La Cruz. I found out, just a few minutes into the court session.""You still should have…"Just then, I was interrupted by the dinging notifications of my phone buzzing and it was from Jeff.My heart skipped a beat as I read the message. "Found him. Arrested. At the NYPD's 23rd Precinct. I will give you details when I see you."Adrenaline surged through my veins as I walked hurriedly
(Frederick's POV)I sat behind the well of the courtroom, hovering my eyes around as I floated in the turmoil of sad emotions with the depths of guilt and regret pressed down on me.All evidence was clearly against me, although there were no witnesses in the murder case. My notebook, the fingerprints, everything pointed to me.While I sank in my misery with sadness written all over my face, a few inches beside me, Anna also sat in the dock, her face void of any remorse. She looked ready for anything that came up as her arms crossed against each other.On the other end of the docks was a lady named Jessica and two young ladies I leaned were her spies both at Stephen's workplace and home. They had been orchestrating some evil plans toward Stephen and Kendall.I switched my eyes back to the jury. Their eyes bore into me, a mix of curiosity, judgment, and perhaps even a hint of pity. The courtroom felt suffocating as if the air itself was tainted by the terrible deeds I had committed."OR