BerniceI stirred slowly, consciousness creeping in. My hand instinctively reached out, seeking Christian's familiar warmth, but found only cool, empty sheets. My eyes fluttered open, confusion momentarily clouding my mind as I took in the empty space beside me."Christian?" I called out softly, my voice still thick with sleep. No response came.Pushing myself up, I winced slightly as the movement pulled at the bandages on my arms and thighs.I reached for my phone on the nightstand. A message notification. It was from Christian."Good morning, beautiful. You were sleeping so peacefully, I didn't want to wake you. Had to head into the Miller Group early to take care of some work. Text me when you're up and about – I'll make sure to be home for dinner. Love you."The smile grew as I read his words. I quickly typed out a reply:"Just woke up. Miss you already. Stay safe and don't work too hard. Love you too."Setting the phone aside, I swung my legs over the edge of the bed, taking a mo
MelissaThe world swam before my eyes, a hazy blur of neon lights and indistinct faces. I signaled the bartender for another drink, my hand shaking slightly as I raised the glass to my lips. The whiskey burned a familiar path down my throat, but even that sensation felt distant, disconnected.How many had I had? I'd lost count hours ago. It didn't matter. Nothing mattered anymore.I stared at my reflection in the mirror behind the bar, barely recognizing the woman who gazed back at me. Her eyes were bloodshot, rimmed with smudged makeup. Her usually perfectly coiffed hair hung in limp strands around her face. She looked lost, broken.Was this really me? Melissa Stephen – or was it Melissa Anything now? I wasn't even sure of my own name anymore.A harsh laugh escaped my lips, drawing curious glances from nearby patrons. Let them stare. They had no idea of the storm raging inside me, the doubts that threatened to tear me apart.Everything I thought I knew, everything I believed to be tr
Bernice The soft clink of silverware against china filled the air as Christian and I enjoyed our dinner. The warm glow of candles cast a soft light across the table, creating an intimate atmosphere that felt worlds away from the chaos of the past few weeks. For a moment, I allowed myself to relax, to savor this moment of normalcy."This is delicious," I said, taking another bite of the perfectly cooked salmon. He opened his mouth to respond, but before he could speak, my phone began to vibrate loudly on the table. I glanced at the screen, surprised to see my mother's name flashing."Sorry," I said to Christian, "I should take this. It might be important."He nodded understandingly as I answered the call. "Mom? Is everything okay?"The moment I heard her voice, I knew something was terribly wrong. She sounded breathless, her words tumbling out in a rush. "Bernice, oh God, Bernice. It's Melissa. She... she's done something terrible."My blood ran cold. "Mom, slow down. What's happened?
BerniceThe fluorescent lights of the police station seemed to buzz louder as Officer Jennings stepped forward, his face a mask of professional concern. "I hate to interrupt," he said, his voice tinged with regret, "but I need to remind you that all conversations here are being monitored. We've already bent the rules allowing this much time, and I can't stretch things any further without risking my job."My father nodded, his face grave. "Of course, Officer. We understand. Thank you for your kindness in allowing us this time.""It's the least I could do," Officer Jennings replied, his eyes softening slightly. "The Stephens have always been good to this community. But rules are rules, and we need to process Ms. Melissa formally now."As the officer spoke, I saw Melissa's face fall, the brief glimmer of hope in her eyes dimming. Without thinking, I reached out and squeezed her hand. "It's going to be okay," I whispered, hoping I sounded more confident than I felt.Christian stepped forw
BerniceI sat cross-legged on the plush sofa, Melissa's laptop balanced precariously on my knees. The weight of it felt heavier than it should, laden with the secrets and lies that had torn our family apart.Christian emerged from the kitchen, two steaming mugs of tea in hand. He set one down on the coffee table in front of me, the fragrant aroma of chamomile wafting up and tickling my nose."You know," he said, settling down beside me, "most people would be ready to call it a day after the kind of week we've had."I glanced up from the screen, offering him a wry smile. "Since when have I ever been 'most people'?"He chuckled, the sound warm and rich. "Fair point. But seriously, Bernie, don't you think you should get some rest? We can tackle this tomorrow with fresh eyes."I sighed, rubbing the back of my neck where a knot of tension had formed. "I appreciate the concern, Christian, but I can't just leave this."He leaned in closer, his eyes locked on mine. The intensity of his gaze s
BerniceThe Stephen Group's offices buzzed that was almost palpable as I strode through the halls, my heels clicking against the polished floor. I pushed open the door to the conference room. Our legal team, a mix of seasoned veterans and eager young associates, all sat around the long table,."Good morning, everyone," I said, my voice steady despite the nerves fluttering in my stomach. "Thank you all for coming on such short notice."Mr. Jameson, our head legal counsel, a man with salt-and-pepper hair and eyes that missed nothing, nodded in acknowledgment. "Ms. Stephen, we're all eager to hear what you've uncovered."I took a deep breath, setting my bag on the table and pulling out Melissa's laptop. "What I'm about to show you is going to change everything we thought we knew about our partnership with EcoBuild."Emails detailing secret meetings between EcoBuild executives and our competitors. Financial records showing discrepancies that pointed to embezzlement on a massive scale. And
BerniceAs I hung up the phone, I couldn't help but shake my head in amazement. Even in the midst of all this chaos and drama, life went on. People fell in love, had their hearts broken, and everything in between.I gathered my things, my mind already racing with plans for the evening ahead. A night of good food, good wine, and girl talk with my best friend was exactly what I needed to recharge.As I made my way towards the elevators, I spotted Mr. Jameson coming out of his office, a thick folder tucked under his arm."Ms. Stephen," he called out, hurrying to catch up with me. "I'm glad I caught you. I wanted to let you know that we've drafted the demand letter to EcoBuild. Would you like to review it before we send it out?"I nodded, taking the folder from him. "Absolutely. I'll look it over tonight and get back to you first thing in the morning. Thank you, Mr. Jameson. For everything."He gave me a small smile, the corners of his eyes crinkling. "No need to thank me, Ms. Stephen. Yo
BerniceThe rich aroma of red wine filled the apartment as Cathy uncorked the second bottle, her cheeks already flushed from our first round of drinks. I settled deeper into the plush cushions of my sofa, kicking off my heels and tucking my feet under me. The soft glow of the table lamp cast a warm, intimate light over us, perfect for the girl talk we were about to dive into."Alright, Bernie," Cathy said, handing me a freshly filled glass. "I've been patient long enough. Spill. What's this about Melissa being involved in a murder?"I took a deep breath, swirling the wine in my glass as I gathered my thoughts. "It's... complicated, Cat. And honestly, kind of unbelievable."Cathy leaned forward, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. "Well, now you have to tell me. Come on, hit me with it."I bit my lip, wondering how to even begin explaining the tangled web of secrets and lies I'd uncovered. "Okay, but promise me you won't freak out?""Bernice Stephen, if you don't start talking right now
BerniceThe gentle sea breeze ruffled my hair as I stood on the balcony of our Hamptons beach house, watching the sun dip below the horizon. Ten years had passed since that first charity gala, a decade filled with more love, laughter, and fulfillment than I could have ever imagined."Penny for your thoughts?" Christian's voice came from behind me, as familiar and comforting as ever.I turned, smiling as he handed me a glass of wine. "Just reflecting. It's hard to believe it's been ten years."Christian nodded, leaning against the railing beside me. "Ten amazing years. And you know what? I have a feeling the best is still to come."As if on cue, the sound of children's laughter floated up from the beach below. I looked down to see Hope, now fourteen, chasing her younger siblings, seven-year-old Ethan and five-year-old Olivia, through the surf. Melissa and Alex's twins, eight-year-old Sophie and Lucas, were building an elaborate sandcastle nearby."Should we call them in for dinner?" I
BerniceThe grand ballroom of the Plaza Hotel buzzed with excitement as New York's elite mingled, their designer gowns and tuxedos glittering under the chandeliers. I smoothed down the front of my own gown - a midnight blue creation that Cathy had insisted I wear - and scanned the room, making sure everything was in place for our charity gala."Relax, Bernie," Christian murmured in my ear, his hand warm on the small of my back. "Everything looks perfect."I turned to him, drinking in the sight of him in his tuxedo. Even after all these years, he still took my breath away. "I know, I know. I just want tonight to be perfect. We've worked so hard on this."Christian smiled, pressing a quick kiss to my temple. "It will be perfect. The Edward Hamilton Foundation's first major fundraiser - how could it be anything but?"I nodded, taking a deep breath to calm my nerves. We had spent months planning this gala, bringing together all our friends and family to support the foundation's mission of
BerniceThe soft spring breeze carried the scent of blooming flowers through Central Park as I watched Melissa and Alex stroll hand in hand ahead of me. Christian walked beside me, pushing Hope's stroller as our daughter babbled happily, pointing at the colorful tulips lining the path."They look happy," I murmured to Christian, nodding towards Melissa and Alex.Christian smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "They do. It's nice to see Melissa like this, isn't it? So carefree and content."I nodded, feeling a warmth spread through my chest. After everything Melissa had been through, seeing her find happiness with Alex felt like a small miracle.As we approached the Bethesda Fountain, I noticed Alex becoming increasingly fidgety. He kept reaching into his pocket, his face a mix of nervousness and excitement. I nudged Christian, raising an eyebrow in silent question. He nodded, a knowing smile playing on his lips."You knew, didn't you?" I whispered accusingly.Christian shrugged,
BerniceThe shrill ring of my phone pierced through the peaceful silence of our bedroom at an ungodly hour. I fumbled for it, nearly knocking over the lamp in my sleep-addled state."Hello?" I mumbled, squinting at the too-bright screen."BERNICE!" Cathy's voice exploded through the speaker, causing me to jerk the phone away from my ear. "I need you! It's an emergency! "I sat up, instantly alert. "Cathy? What's wrong? Is Lily okay?""Lily? Oh, she's fine. Sleeping like an angel, the little traitor," Cathy huffed. "No, it's much worse. I'm filing for divorce!"I blinked, trying to process this information. "Divorce?! Cathy, what are you talking about?""I'm leaving Taylor!" she wailed dramatically. "I can't take it anymore, Bernie. He's driving me insane! Do you know what he did?""What did he do?" I asked cautiously, already suspecting this was going to be something ridiculous."He left his socks on the floor. AGAIN!" Cathy's voice rose to a pitch that I'm sure only dogs could hear.
BerniceThe familiar New York skyline greeted us as our car wound its way through the city streets. After the rugged beauty of Scotland, the urban landscape felt both jarring and comforting. Hope was fast asleep in her car seat, her new stuffed highland cow clutched tightly to her chest."Home sweet home," Christian murmured, his hand finding mine in the space between us.As we pulled up to our building, I saw the doorman, George, step forward to help with our luggage. His familiar face broke into a warm smile as he saw us."Welcome back, Mr. and Mrs. Miller," he said, opening the car door. "How was your trip?""Wonderful, George, thank you," Christian replied, carefully lifting the still-sleeping Hope from her car seat. "But it's good to be home."I followed them into the building, my mind already racing with all the things we needed to do. Unpack, sort through mail, check in with work... The list seemed endless.As we entered our apartment, the silence enveloped us. After the bustle
BerniceThe early morning sun streamed through the windows of our Paris apartment, casting a golden glow over the scattered suitcases and travel documents strewn across the bed. I stood in front of the mirror, adjusting my blouse and taking a deep breath. Today was the day we'd been planning for weeks - our family trip to Scotland, to Christian's ancestral home."Mama! Mama!" Hope's excited voice preceded her as she toddled into the room, her little arms outstretched. I scooped her up, pressing a kiss to her chubby cheek."Are you ready for our big adventure, sweetheart?" I asked, smoothing down her unruly curls.Hope nodded enthusiastically. "See sheep!" she declared, her face lighting up with joy.I laughed, remembering the picture books of Scotland we'd been reading to her. "That's right, we're going to see lots of sheep. And castles, and lochs, and maybe even a highland cow or two."Christian appeared in the doorway, looking handsome in a casual sweater and jeans. The pendant I'd
BerniceThe soft glow of my desk lamp cast shadows across the scattered sketches and gemstones before me. It was well past midnight, but sleep eluded me. I was searching for a way to help Christian through his mourning.I picked up a rough sapphire, turning it over in my palm. Its deep blue reminded me of Edward's eyes, always twinkling with mischief and kindness. An idea began to form in my mind, a way to capture a piece of Edward's spirit in something tangible that Christian could carry with him.With renewed energy, I began to sketch. The design took shape under my pencil - a simple yet elegant pendant. A teardrop-shaped sapphire, surrounded by a delicate filigree of white gold, designed to look like the intertwining branches of a family tree. At the base of the pendant, almost hidden within the metalwork, I planned to engrave Edward's initials and the coordinates of his favorite spot in Paris - a bench in the Jardin des Tuileries where he used to take Christian as a boy.As the fi
BerniceIt was a moment of pure magic, tinged with the bittersweet knowledge that it might be one of Edward's last.The night stretched on, marked by Edward's labored breathing and occasional coughs. His skin had taken on a grayish pallor, and his cheeks seemed more sunken than ever. Every so often, his eyes would flutter open, unfocused and glassy, before closing again.Dr. Fournier entered the room for what felt like the hundredth time that night. He checked Edward's vitals with practiced efficiency, his brow furrowing as he noted the dropping blood pressure and weakening pulse. "We've increased his morphine dosage," he murmured to Christian. "He shouldn't be in any pain now."Edward's fingers twitched sporadically against the bedsheet, and his breathing became more irregular - sometimes rapid and shallow, then pausing for long, terrifying moments before resuming. The oxygen mask fogged rhythmically with each exhale, a visual reminder of his continuing fight.As dawn approached, Edw
BerniceChristian rushed in, followed closely by Dr. Fournier. For the next few minutes, the room was a flurry of activity as the doctor checked Edward's vitals and responses.Slowly, miraculously, Edward's eyes fluttered open. They were unfocused at first, but then they found Christian's face."Chris... Christian," he rasped, his voice barely audible around the breathing tube.Christian's face broke into a smile, tears streaming down his cheeks. "I'm here, Grandfather. I'm right here."Dr. Fournier quickly removed the breathing tube, replacing it with an oxygen mask. "Mr. Hamilton," he said, his voice gentle but firm. "Try not to speak too much. You've been through quite an ordeal."Edward nodded weakly, his eyes never leaving Christian's face. He lifted a shaky hand, which Christian immediately grasped."I'm sorry," Edward whispered. "I'm so sorry."Christian frowned, confused. "Sorry? Grandfather, you have nothing to be sorry for. You're going to be okay. You're going to get better