Claire’s povI stride into my office at Nova Designs on Monday morning, feeling that delightful buzz of anticipation. The news over the weekend naming us one of the top two interior design firms in New York is still sinking in. This is what I've worked so hard for - true recognition of my talents and the incredible team I've built."Good morning, Ms. Claire ," Anna, my ever-reliable assistant, greets me with a warm smile as I enter. She takes my handbag and briefcase. "Brian got off to school without any fuss this morning.""Wonderful, thank you Anna." I pause to hang up my coat. "And how are things looking for us this week?"Anna launches into her customary rundown, but her tone carries an extra note of pride. "The Matthews estate project is nearly complete - that's the $6 million contract. And I have inquiries from three billionaires hoping to have you redesign their Manhattan residences."I can't help but smile at the awe in her voice. "You're too kind, Anna. It's our whole team th
Claire’s povLucas's eyes were soft but insistent as he said, "Go. I'll be here when you need me." I gave a small, curt nod, then turned and rushed through the hospital's sliding doors before he could see the sheen of tears blurring my vision. My heart felt like it was clenched in a vice as I made my way to the pediatric ward where the nurse said Brian had been admitted. "Where is he? Where's my son?" I demanded as soon as I reached the nurses' station, my voice terse with barely contained panic.The nurse must have seen a thousand worried mothers, but she gentled her tone as she said, "He's right through here, Ms. Claire. The doctor is with him now."I followed her down the corridor with hurried steps, pushing open the door to Brian's room. He looked so small and pale lying there, though his eyes were open and he seemed fully conscious, thank God. "Mummy!" His face broke into a relieved smile when he saw me.In an instant I was at his bedside, stroking his hair. "Brian, sweetheart
Lucas povI got back to my mansion feeling exhausted after the long day. As I parked my car, my mind kept drifting back to Claire and her son, Brian. The resemblance was uncanny - those eyes, that smile, it was like looking at a younger version of myself. A nagging doubt crept in. Could Brian be my son? Claire and I had that one night of passion years ago. But she said Brian was only five, which would mean she was with someone else when we...No, I shouldn't jump to conclusions.I was still mulling it over when my phone rang. It was Mom. "Lucas! Why on earth did you cancel your dinner date with Chloe?" she demanded. "The poor girl was left waiting at the restaurant like a fool."I pinched the bridge of my nose. "I had a business meeting that ran late, Mother. I was too tired for dinner.""That's no excuse! You didn't even have the decency to call Chloe and let her know?""I was going to message her," I lied, not wanting another lecture."Well, it's too late for that now. You need to
Lucas povI woke with a start, eyes flying open as the early morning sunlight filtered through the curtains. Glancing at the clock, I was surprised to see how early it was earlier than I'd wakened in a long time without being roused by an important meeting or business obligation.But today wasn't about work. Today was about Claire...and Brian. A small smile tugged at my lips as I thought about the little boy who could quite possibly be my son. The resemblance was uncanny, and the more I pondered it, the more I felt that unshakable gut instinct that he had to be mine.With a renewed sense of purpose, I threw off the covers and headed for the shower, thoughts of Claire and that amazing night we shared flooding my mind. As the hot water sluiced over my body, I found myself growing hard just reminiscing about the softness of her skin, the breathtaking noises of pleasure she made as we moved together in perfect rhythm. Shaking my head to dispel the sensual memories before I got too carrie
Claire’s povBreakfast was a lively affair, with Brian chattering nonstop about his design ideas while Lucas listened with rapt attention. The bond between them was palpable, like two kindred spirits connecting on a level I couldn't fully grasp.As we cleaned up and got ready to head to the office, I couldn't help stealing sidelong glances at the pair, my heart doing funny little flip-flops. Lucas looked so at ease around Brian, so genuinely engaged and interested. And my son, in turn, was positively glowing with the focused notice from his new "friend."When we pulled up to the office, I wasn't surprised by the curious looks and whispered murmurs from my employees milling about outside. I'm sure the sight of me arriving with the city's most eligible bachelor in tow was quite the gossip-worthy spectacle.Ignoring the raised eyebrows and not-so-subtle gawking, I ushered Lucas and Brian inside, my son's little hand gripped securely in mine. We hadn't taken two steps through the lobby be
Lucas’s pov I walked into my office in a rush, impatience thrumming through my veins. Jason better have a damn good reason for summoning me here on a weekend. "This better be important," I barked as I flung open the door with rather more force than necessary. "What couldn't possibly wait until Monday?"Jason glanced up calmly from where he was shuffling through paperwork at his desk, utterly unfazed by my brusque entrance. "My apologies, Mr. Anderson , I didn't realize it was still the weekend for you."I opened my mouth to fire off a scathing retort when his words properly registered. With a huff, I raked a hand through my hair and forced myself to take a steadying breath. Jason didn't deserve the brunt of my foul mood."You're right, you're right. I'm sorry," I said, the lingering high from my encounter with Claire slowly ebbing. "It's just been an...eventful morning. What's this all about?"Jason regarded me with knowing eyes, one brow quirked. "I could ask you the same. You're n
Claire’s povAfter Lucas left my office, I couldn't seem to wipe the smile from my face or the delicious ache from between my thighs. Just being near him again, drinking in his masculine presence, the memories came flooding back in vivid detail.The way he looked the first night we met, ruggedly handsome in that perfectly tailored suit, wisps of dark hair falling over his forehead as sweat beaded there from the heat of the crowded club. The potent intensity in those brandy-colored eyes when they met mine from across the room. The way his muscular frame moved with raw, predatory grace as he approached, making a beeline straight for me through the throngs of people.That night had been electric, charged with chemistry so palpable I could all but taste it on the air. Just like today when he pulled me into his arms and claimed my lips in that searing, breath-stealing kiss. God, how did he still make me feel like a silly, love-struck girl with just his presence alone?I was only faintly a
Lucas’s pov I watched Claire walk into the cafe, and my heart skipped a beat. Her radiant smile lit up the room, and those deep brown eyes seemed to peer into my very soul. As she approached our table, I rose to greet her, captivated by her effortless beauty."Wow you look amazing Claire," I said, unable to hide the grin spreading across my face. "I hope you don't mind, but I've taken the liberty of ordering for us already. Please, have a seat."She obliged, settling into the chair across from me. "Why, thank you, Lucas. That's very kind of you." The waiter arrived shortly after, placing our meals before us. Claire's eyes widened with delight at the sight of the delectable spread. As we began to eat, I couldn't resist the urge to learn more about this enchanting woman."So, Claire," I began, setting down my fork. "If you don't mind me asking, have you had any serious relationships since... Well, since that night we met?"A slight blush crept into her cheeks, and she averted her gaze
CHRISTABLE’S POVI’ve spent days trying to forget what happened and I still find myself falling for someone I just met. Everything that happened kept playing in my head and I don’t think I will forget it soon. Today’s work, I was very ready for whoever is going to be the victim of saying what should not be said.Unfortunately, they all respected themselves and I didn’t do as planned. The work today was not a good one, Mirabel had spent more time in the office. At some point, I wondered if she was ever going to submit the paper. I don’t know how fond I was of them but I wanted to speak to her about something.“Maybe I should try visiting her, even if she gets mad at least I know I checked up on her.” I thought to myself.With this thought, I left for her office to check on her. I expected these workers to poke their noses in what they can’t smell, but they did the opposite today. I got into the office forgetting to knock.“Shit!” she exclaimed.“Oh, I’m sorry about that ma’am.” I apol
LUCAS' POVThe message I got wasn't something I needed to waste time on before leaving. I left immediately and rushed into the car. The hospital was far from my house so I drove very fast. I need to reach Claire before she does something stupid to herself. "Get out of the way," I shouted at the driver who was in front of me.Why was the man after me? He needs to get out of the way.Just when I was trying to get out of the way, the traffic light showed red. There is no way I’m going to wait for the light to turn green, I am in a hurry. I drove past the traffic light, waiting was a waste of time. I just attracted the cops. It wouldn't be a funny thing though.I got to the hospital, and the cops arrived at the same time. “shit!” I muttered in frustration.“You went against the rule.” The cops walked up to the window.I assumed he didn’t know who he was talking to.I got out of the car and showed myself to him.“0h, I’m sorry for interrupting.” He apologized.“I don’t violate the law.
CHLOE'S POV My mom was still around; I mean, this time, I was fed up and needed to be alone. She was never going to understand the language, Especially now that she thinks she is winning whatever battle with Lucas. Unknown to her that Lucas wouldn't give up easily, Lucas would never give up easily.I have seen and given more threats to him but he risks his life for Claire.This morning, I needed to walk out to find peace but the weather wasn't favourable in any way.I made warm tea and stood outside to drink it.“Chloe, how are you doing?” Mom came out of the room wrapped with her blanket.“Mom,” I answered without looking behind.“Good morning,” I greeted with a forced smile.“You know it's cold and you choose to take that outside,” she pointed at the cup in my hands.“Ohh, o just needed some air.” I waggled my eyebrows and entered the house.She followed me in and closed the door behind me.“This is warmer, and that's the air you should be seeking for.” Mom pulled out the blanket
Christabel PovIt was the second day of my job and I was happy working there already. I loved the fact that everyone concentrated on what they had to do. No one had the time to talk about people."There will always be people," I smirked when I passed some set of humans.They used their eyes to communicate. That is something I always do so I can detect it within a minute."Hey." I greeted them anyway even when I knew they wouldn't answer me.“why does she always want to show off where she isn't needed?” One of them whispered.“She's trying to get the attention of the boss, or probably her husband.” She grinned.“Shut the fuck up. No one says that's her husband.” Another warned.“What!”I heard all this conversation and acted like I heard nothing; my hearing was perfect and sharp. I mean, I've worked for a Mafia boss as a spy; I'm good at these things.“Hey, Miss.” I knocked at Mirabel's door twice.Until I got the permission, I didn't go in.“How are you doing today?” She smiled with
CLAIRE'S POVI was still in shock, trying to recover from Chloe's looks. Her eyes were worse than that of a killer.When she stared at me I almost fell to the ground. My heart raced for seconds before Lucas gave me a warm hug.I don't know what to do anymore. I was still confused about everything even when Lucas told me to go home.I found myself several times talking about the whole issue.“Wait…” I halted my car and leaned backwards with a sigh.“Am I falling for Lucas again? I mean, I fought this feeling for months, and now, here it is all burning like it's a new love.” I sighed.I started my car recklessly without looking behind.The trailer from behind horned like they were about to fall into the gutter “What is going…. Oh shit!” I was quick enough to put my car to the side.“You piece of shit, watch where you are going.” The passenger shouted through the window.I held my chest from the shock. I hope I don't die before I get back home.I checked my back before moving my vehicle
LUCAS POVThe whole scene wasn't clear to me enough.I needed an explanation for all the shit that was happening. I mean, Dad would just sit there and watch these people lie against me.It is a new day and I expect everyone in the house to forget about everything that happened. I don't see myself forgetting about it very soon but I wish my parents would forget about it immediately.“I have to get to work.” I sighed.My head is not in a good state to go to work. I had stayed away from work, trying to prove some stupid points to people.My father had been silent since the day that issue was addressed. I know very well that he would talk about that, he just needs time and something to remind him of it.I got up from the bed to the kitchen as tired as I was. I could barely think of something to say to anyone.“Good morning, mom.” I greeted her with a low tone.She snubbed and continued with what she had to do. My strength wasn't enough to greet her twice or ask what the matter was.I assu
CHLOE'S POVMy mom was my savior, but that didn't last for long.I had to defend myself at some point and I had to follow my mother's rules."Let the victim defend herself." When Lucas said that, my heart sank.I was shivering already, the man wasn't frightening but his looks and body movements says it all.I don't know how observant he was but I had to be careful so that he doesn't detect the lie.After the whole shouts and screams and argument. The father came to a conclusion that didn't favour Lucas. He was annoyed at this but his father...? He is the same to everyone including his sons.Lucas didn't give up, he shouted at us and did whatever he wanted but our decision stood firm."Before I leave, this is to remind you that if you don't accept my daughter after being a traitor to her...I will call the police into this case and her father..." My mom scoffed."You wouldn't love to see his madness here." With these words we walked out.I could tell that Lucas was mad. He kept stutte
LUCAS POVIt was a pleasure to see Claire. I mean, I didn't expect to see her, but here she was anyway.She looked like one who had been running a helter-skelter to look for me. Chloe's mother made a threatening Sentence that made her almost lose control. I don't see any reason why she should be Afraid."Go home," I instructed her and I made sure she drove away before I joined them in my house. "Who do we have here?" My mother came out to welcome her supposed daughter."Hold those greetings to yourself." Chloe's mother interrupted.My mom stood there shocked; She was probably trying to process why she would act that way."You might want to have a seat mom," I said to her,I fell on the sofa and took a deep breath. "Mom, where's dad?" I asked while looking around.I found him coming downstairs."What is going on here?" My dad stepped inNow I was certain the so-called meeting should start; at least I have someone who doesn't support them in any way."Chloe came over." Her Mol pulled
CLAIRE'S POVI don't know how things were going with Lucas and that fool. I lost concentration at work, especially when he came to me in the morning and asked where I found her.He was so impatient that before I could get out of my office to meet him he was gone."Ma'am, the files you requested are here." One of the new workers said to me, I just kept staring at the papers without having in mind what I wanted to do with it."Ma'am, we have to leave with this immediately, so please, I would need you to finish with it...." I interrupted her before she finished speaking."Just leave," I said to her,"Ma'am?""Am I stuttering? I said you should leave." I raised my voice at her.I wasn't comfortable with that after some minutes but I didn't have a choice."Shit! What is going on with me?" I hit the table in anger.There was no way I would have to leave the company papers unsigned. Even when I shouted at the lady, I knew that I couldn't deny my work. I still have to do itI began with the