“Have you planned all of this, Reas?”
Bryan's accusation elicited a smirk from Andreas. He raised his glass and took a sip with a relaxed demeanor, as if he were enjoying an international opera performance.
“Of course, I had planned it,” replied Andreas nonchalantly. He then turned to Vlora by his side, reaching out his hand and gently squeezing her slender fingers. “It would be impossible for me not to consider the possibility that you would reject Vlora. I didn't want to take any risks, and you can't do anything about it now. It's already too late.”
Andreas did not exaggerate what he said. And as for Bryan's helplessness now, it would only take a short amount of time for the sensational news to spread across the country. There was no need to wait for tomorrow's printed newspapers or even internet-based media outlets to start working as expected.
A delighted expression adorned Andreas' handsome face. Just imagining it
Hi?Vlora's expression snapped to attention when she heard the informal greeting directed at her. Even more so when a hand was extended a moment later, accompanied by a smile.Vlora welcomed the handshake. “Vlora.”“I know who you are. At least, the host introduced you earlier.”Ah! A forgotten fact by Vlora. It seemed that now, there was no one who did not know her. It was all thanks to Andreas' brilliant idea.“Unfortunately, you probably don't know me. I'm Nadine Martinez.”I know you.Certainly, thanks to the brief argument between Andreas and Bryan. Vlora had repeatedly heard the name Nadine mentioned. So, was this her lucky chance to meet her in person?“Ah, Nadine.”The handshake concluded. Nadine, who was wearing a black dress that night, continued speaking.“Yes, and I am Andreas' girlfriend.”Vlora's forehead furrowed sl
It seemed fate was too cruel to Nadine that night. Not only did she feel deflated by Vlora's words, but she also had to witness firsthand how Andreas embraced the woman intimately. To add insult to injury, Andreas even planted a kiss on Vlora's temple.The sight of such intimacy evoked a range of emotions within Nadine's heart. She felt humiliated as this incident did not escape the prying eyes of a few onlookers. It was no wonder Nadine noticed some people looking at her with pity.How pathetic.“You should have listened to what I said, Nadine. You shouldn't have entered a relationship with Andreas. Now, look what has happened? He dumped you for another woman.”A heavy voice rang in Nadine's ears. She turned and her face instantly changed upon seeing who approached her.“Jonas.”It was Jonas Sanders, Bryan's eldest son from his second wife, standing right beside Nadine. He held a drink in one hand and the other reste
Progun was a company focused on household supplies. It started with high-quality products to combat various insects and became well-known for its wide range of mosquito repellents.Over time, Progun expanded into other daily consumer sectors. Many acquisitions were made, venturing into air fresheners, shoe polish, soap, and various everyday food products. At least, additional items such as soy sauce, sauce, tea, syrup, juice, and bread had solidified Progun's position.Talking about Progun was always associated with billions of dolar in value and the pride that came with it.“Enjoy it while you can, Jon. Because once I decide to take it back, you won't get anything.”Jonas scoffed. “You're too confident, Reas.”“Not without reason. You should realize that too, Jonas. Fate works that way. Your mother could marry our father because our mother allowed it. You could have Nadine because I let her go. You can manage Progun n
At eleven o'clock at night, it was not too late for a party. Unfortunately, it was different with this party. Andreas decided to take Vlora to leave the event early. However, something crossed his mind, causing a frown on his forehead.“What's wrong?” Vlora asked, looking at Andreas.Andreas gazed at her. “Actually, there's one family member I haven't introduced you to. I just realized I haven't seen her since earlier.”“Is it your grandmother?” Vlora asked.Andreas shook his head. “Of course not. Nana has retired from attending such events since Papa had a mistress. It's safe to say that Nana has never been at the same event as Papa for the last 36 years.”A very long time. Even before Andreas was born.“I heard the story from people, and I've seen it for myself. That's what I've witnessed all this time. They are biological mother and son who are genuinely not on good terms.”
It should have been a peaceful breakfast as usual. Unfortunately, everything changed when someone's footsteps slowly approached the dining room. Three faces lifted. Three pairs of eyes turned. They looked at a grown man who pulled out a chair with a broad smile. He sat down without apology. He joined them for breakfast after a waiter promptly prepared a meal for him. Amanda and Vian exchanged a look. Then they both turned their attention to Bryan, whose face immediately tensed. Obviously, Andreas' presence was not the breakfast menu he liked. “Ah! Having a meal with the family is truly delightful.” Andreas' voice broke the silence. He smiled as he looked at his family members one by one. It was not at all surprising that Andreas found it normal that Amanda and Vian acted cautiously. It was as if they were prepared for the tension that would arise between Andreas and Bryan. Bryan clearly showed his displeasure with Andreas' presence. A father's attitude that was completely inapprop
That night, Vlora had just finished preparing her tools when the doorbell rang. She glanced at the clock and noticed that it was already ten o'clock. It was an unusual time for a visit.Vlora adjusted her nightgown and looked through the intercom. It was then that she realized that sometimes there were one or two people who did not understand common courtesy. Andreas seemed to be one of them.The door opened. Their eyes met immediately.“I hope I'm not disturbing you, Vlo.”It was not just Andreas' words that made Vlora exhale for a moment. There was also a wry smile on his face.“At ten at night? Oh, of course, you're not disturbing me.”Andreas laughed. “Do you mind if I ask for a cup of coffee?”“A cup of coffee?”“You can substitute it with something else,” Andreas replied. Apparently, a cup of coffee at ten o'clock at night had been added to Andreas' list of pecul
As quickly as Andreas' voice became husky, Vlora felt the air around her change. She immediately assumed a cautious posture, anticipating every possible scenario that might unfold.Vlora shifted slightly when Andreas said that so explicitly. His tone was soft, but she could sense the underlying desire.“You're not wearing a bra under that nightgown.”Vlora froze. She forced her brain to think quickly to take precautions. Unfortunately, Andreas' voice returned and interrupted her train of thought.“Am I right?”Spontaneously blinking, Andreas' intense gaze made Vlora move. Her natural instinct urged her to put some distance between them. She had to keep her distance and be on guard. At the very least, she should fold her arms across her chest.But no. This was Vlora. She never let anyone intimidate her. Including Andreas.Andreas was well aware of this. So, he remained calm, but alert. He was sure that Vlora wou
Moving up the wedding date was obviously no big deal for Andreas. Especially since there was someone who would undoubtedly support it wholeheartedly.That someone was Noelle. The grandmother wasted no time in supporting Andreas and Vlora's decision. She took matters into her own hands and prepared everything that had to do with the wedding.Understandable. Grandmothers all over the world would be happy to see their grandchildren get married. Especially when it's their first acknowledged grandchild.In stark contrast to Noelle's joy, Andreas received a confused look from his parents. Still, he could see the gleam in Amanda's eyes, and his younger sibling was practically beaming with happiness.Of course, in Vian's eyes, Andreas was the perfect older brother. As a younger sibling, she could not find a fault with Andreas. Andreas looked out for her and had always been a pleasant companion.However, Vian had to be objective enough to say that Andreas h
Many say that the first year of marriage often brings trials. As a result, many choose to give up. But there are also those who make it through, including Andreas and Vlora. They have shown the world that nothing is impossible if you stay together and support each other. Days have passed. Countless rainy seasons have made them sick together, and countless droughts have made them thirsty together. In essence, they have gone through these seasons together. Like that night, exactly five minutes before the clock struck seven, a car drove through the gates of the Sanders' house. The car drove on and stopped in the driveway. The driver had a handsome face, and upon closer inspection, he might have been about twenty-four years old. His appearance was stylish, but his expression was irritated. He let out a long sigh. “Oh, really? Are you really serious, Gerrya?” A young and beautiful woman sat in the passenger seat. She nodded as she unbuckled her seatbelt. “Of course, I'm serious, Nick.
Andreas had a firm belief about marriage: choosing the right partner ensures a successful marriage. He felt this when he looked at Vlora's face. He entered the room and Vlora greeted him with a smile. Time had passed, and by now Andreas realized that it would be impossible for him to stand tall and fearless without Vlora by his side. The storms of sadness and rage that pressed upon him were too powerful to face alone. Andreas was lucky. He had Vlora, and he was confident that such luck would never come twice. Vlora cupped Andreas' cheeks. Without saying a word, they communicated through their intense gazes. They plunged into the depths of each other's hearts, and it felt incredibly beautiful. Andreas' hand rose. He caressed Vlora's hand on his cheek. He immersed himself in the feeling of love that flowed through every fiber of his being, convinced that this feeling would remain unchanged as time passed. Always the same, and even identical to that day when Vlora had comforted him in
Lydia was truly hysterical when she received the news that Jonas had been arrested by the police. She immediately contacted Bryan and it didn't take long for Bryan to arrive with a flushed face. “Bryan, Jonas.” Bryan and Lydia did not waste any time. They went straight to the police station, but Jonas was being interrogated, so they couldn't meet him. The lawyer was ready. He would be with Jonas throughout the trial. But it wouldn't be an easy task. “This is a complex case, sir.” Bryan tried to calm the shocked Lydia with the lawyer's words and then asked, “What do you mean?” “Mr. Andreas must have gathered all the evidence to implicate Mr. Jonas long ago. There are allegations of embezzlement of company funds, illegal collaboration, and the latest is an attempted rape of Mrs. Vlora.” Bryan could barely breathe and Lydia screamed hysterically. They both panicked at the possibility of terrible things happening to Jonas. “Bryan, please. Get Jonas out of here.” Bryan rubbed his f
Not a sound could be heard. Not even the light breeze made a traceable whisper. Everything was silent, but not in a cold way, but with a warmth that only Andreas and Vlora could feel. Minutes passed. Andreas lifted his hand and reached for Vlora's hand, which was tending to the wound on his face. He held Vlora's fingers with the utmost gentleness, and Vlora's gaze shifted to his eyes. Two pairs of eyes met. They stared at each other. For a moment they were silent. Then Andreas tried to swallow the bitterness and gathered his courage. “Vlo—” “It's going to be okay, Reas,” Vlora quickly interrupted before Andreas could finish. She smiled weakly. “We'll get through this.” Andreas took a deep breath. Heat surged through his chest and the air felt like it was on fire. But when he looked into Vlora's clear eyes, the fire was replaced by a crushing pain. His heart felt squeezed, painfully. “Thank you, Vlo.” Andreas realized how lucky he was to have Vlora. He couldn't imagine what would
Vlora fidgeted restlessly, tears and sighs alternating on her smooth face. She was uncomfortable, so Noelle, along with Amanda and Vian, quickly approached.“Vlo.”“Vlora.”Amanda held Vlora. She gently woke her daughter-in-law, and soon Vlora's eyes opened bright and alert.“Reas.”Amanda reassured Vlora. “Vlora.”Vlora turned her head. She saw all of them there, but she noticed that Andreas was not there.“Mama, where's Reas?”Vian approached and helped Vlora to stand up. Then he went to prepare a glass of water.“Andreas went home for a moment, but he'll be back soon.”Vian handed Vlora the drink. Only then did she notice how dry her throat was. It did not take her long to finish the glass.“You just rest, Vlo,” Noelle said with a reassuring expression. “I will wake you when Andreas arrives.”Confused, Vlora shook her head. Her eyes blinked like a confused person. “No. I will wait for Andreas.”They all took a deep breath. The three of them understood that Andreas was indeed the on
Andreas was on the verge of despair when he arrived home. He saw that Jonas' car was still parked, and without wasting any time, he quickly got out of the car, entered the house, and heard the terrible sounds.“Vlora!”The horrible sight shocked Andreas. Vlora was lying on the floor in a pitiful state, her clothes disheveled and her body covered in bruises.Andreas' panic turned to fear. His heart seemed to stop when he saw the blood running down Vlora's legs. His breath caught and he realized something—blood could never be a good sign.Something terrible had happened to Vlora, and Andreas knew exactly who was responsible. It was Jonas.Andreas looked up and saw Jonas frozen. When their eyes met, Jonas became aware of the situation.Jonas rushed down the stairs, ran and fled.Andreas resisted the urge to go after Jonas. Vlora's safety was more important, and luckily Frans arrived just in time.“Sir.”Andreas looked at Frans blankly. “Help me, Frans. Vlora. Sh-she.”His tongue was tied
A soft knock echoed, and a moment later Desmon entered with a servant. They served breakfast while Vlora leaned back and tried to relax.“Did Andreas ask you to call the doctor?”Desmon nodded. “Yes, madam. The doctor will probably be here in an hour.”“I think there's no need to call the doctor. So please cancel it.”“No need to call the doctor?” Desmon repeated, trying to be reassuring. “Shouldn't you be examined? I think Master is concerned about your health.”“I'm fine, just a little tired. Everything will be fine after some rest.”Desmon looked hesitant, but he couldn't argue. He nodded and said, “Very well, madam. I'll excuse myself, and if you need anything, please call me.”“Thank you, and...” Vlora paused for a moment, turning her attention to the servant behind Desmon. “...I'd like you to stay here.”Desmon walked away, leaving the servant behind. Vlora waited until the bedroom door was completely closed before she spoke.“I want you to buy some testpacks.”The servant's eye
Unlike usual, Andreas found himself waking up earlier than Vlora, considering it was a workday. He saw Vlora still lying next to him when he opened his eyes. The intention to wake her was there, but he refrained. He decided to let Vlora sleep a little longer and wake her later, after he had finished his shower.But Andreas was not quite sure. He guessed that Vlora would be awake by the time he finished his shower, but he was wrong.Andreas finished his shower, and strangely enough, Vlora was still sleeping. So, he approached Vlora with a puzzled expression that made his forehead wrinkle. It seemed that this was the first time in their marriage that he had seen Vlora wake up late. Vlora and her disciplined nature had really impressed him.“Vlo.”Andreas sat down on the edge of the bed. He wanted to wake her, but instead he felt something strange in Vlora's body. Vlora's temperature was warmer than usual.A fever?Andreas touched Vlora's forehead and it seemed that he was not wrong. Vlo
Vlora lifted her body gently for a moment. She lingered on Andreas' chest, then looked into his eyes. She didn't say anything, but kissed Andreas' lips tenderly.Their eyes closed simultaneously. Both absorbed in the moment, and when the kiss ended, Vlora smiled.“Actually, earlier I was questioning the purpose of having a lazy chair here.”Andreas smiled too, his lips curling in amusement. He stroked Vlora's cheek and asked, “Now?”“Now I know that the lazy chair has another function besides just being lazy.”Andreas' amused smile turned into a laugh. Then he took Vlora in his arms when they decided to move from there. Vlora's legs encircled Andreas' waist, and her hands were draped around his neck. Together they walked to the inviting bed.*Not a day went by without restlessness for Jonas. Every morning, as soon as he woke up, he reached for his phone. He checked the stock quotes and the latest news, especially when it came to the names of the majority shareholders.Bryan had indee