Markus's touch sent a jolt of unease through her, but she refused to let it show. She forced herself to remain calm, to keep up the facade, even as her heart hammered in her chest. She couldn't af ord to let her guard down, not even for a moment. Markus wanted to lean in and peck her side of the neck but the man understood the need to stay calm and keep his emotions confined till Valeria was ready. He could not risk losing Valeria just because of his rash behaviour towards her as he acted before. The man smiled and left a gentle pat on her head and walked towards the other side of the huge ass dining table. ‘Wao! He really is trying hard to keep me here. Everything here is of my taste.’ Valeria saw the cutlery was expensive and the collection of some brand which she used to love. ‘Oh Markus! Only if you could move on.’ The woman gently brushed her fingers over the fork. ‘I cannot stay here for long.’ Then touched the top of the long stem glass with her index finger. ‘I hope you c
After Esksaal was gone Valeria sat on the bed with her legs extended. She wished to have some time alone to figure out how to contact Richie. Because during the survey of the house she noticed that there was no phone. There was no way left for her to reach the outside world other than talking and convincing the staff . The room was bathed in soft sunlight, creating a warm and cozy atmosphere for a pregnant lady. ‘Now whom should I talk to?’ Valeria , sitting on her bed, looked at the roof with a thoughtful expression. The room was adorned with delicate decorations, reflecting Valeria 's refined taste which she changed. ‘If the painter's plan flopped I need a new one to ensure my escape.’ She was still thinking about plan B when Valeria heard someone entering the room. She was sure some maid must have brought her some snacks as per Markus’s instructions. Bella entered the room, holding a tray with a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice. She was wearing a warm and comforting smil
Bella brought the tablet to make sure Valeria will seek an escape. Valeria sat on the bed with her legs crossed and the tablet in her hands. ‘Come on! Please, please.’ She wanted to make sure everything was great. Although there were no phones, she had seen Markus using one and skimming the internet. It simply meant the services were only forbidden for her. Other people in the house might be using them. ‘Please connect. Please, I beg you.’ She waited for the screen to glow up. The glow of the screen illuminated her face as she furrowed her brows, fingers tapping rapidly on the glass. Valeria immediately opened the search engine with a completely focused stare, as she typed into the search bar. "Richardson Zaro social media." She hit enter and leaned forward, anticipation written across her face. She knew that was her only chance to get off the island. Valeria could not wait for any result to pop up. It simply did not cross her mind why Bella was helping her. Why was she risking h
The door creaked open, and Markus stepped into the cosy room, the scent of home immediately enveloping him. Valeria was perched on her bed, a book in one hand and a plate of fruits in the other. Bella had provided her with the items she needed. Her hair cascaded in waves around her shoulders, and a soft smile graced her lips as she looked up at him. Valeria knew that she had to act the same loving way to not make Markus suspect her. "Hey there," she greeted, setting the book aside and gesturing for him to join her. "Come, have a seat." Markus's tired muscles relaxed as he padded over to the bed, sinking down beside her. He let out a tired sigh as he stretched out, his gaze meeting hers. "Had a good day, love?" he asked, his voice filled with genuine concern. Valeria nodded, taking a bite of a juicy apple before responding. "Yeah, it was pretty good but boring," she admitted, leaning back against the headboard. "But seeing you walk through that door makes it all worth the wait." A
Valeria's heart clenched at Markus's promise, a mixture of relief and doubt swirling within her. She shifted slightly, her eyes searching his face for any hint of deception. Even though somewhere deep down she could feel the sincerity in his words. But Bella had sowed so much doubt in her that she could not think otherwise. "Markus," she began, her voice soft yet tinged with uncertainty, "How true are your words? Have you been honest with me all this time? Or are there any lies you've been keeping from me? I mean I don’t know what you have done in this time period. And I have no idea what changed your mind and heart towards me." Markus's expression remained steady, his gaze unwavering as he reached out to gently cup her cheek. "Valeria," he murmured, hisvoice filled with sincerity, "I swear to you, I've never lied to you. None till now. Everything I've said, every promise I've made, has come from the depths of my heart. You don’t have to mistrust me, please.” Valeria's doubts bega
On the weekend, Bella gently pushed open the door to Valeria's room, her expression warm and sympathetic. Valeria was standing by the window, gazing out at the village with a wistful smile. Her hand rested protectively over her swelling belly, a gentle reminder of the new life growing within her. "Miss Valeria," Bella called softly, stepping into the room. "I brought your new gown. Would you like some help putting it on?" Valeria turned to face her, gratitude shining in her eyes. "Oh, Bella, that would be wonderful. My tummy has been making it a bit difficult to reach some places lately." Bella nodded understandingly, crossing the room to where the gown lay draped over the bed. It was a beautiful creation, made of soft silk and adorned with delicate embroidery. She carefully picked it up, holding it out for Valeria to slip into. "Here, let me assist you," Bella said, her voice gentle as she helped Valeria ease into the gown. As the gown settled into place, Valeria let out a content
The gentle sway of the cruise ship beneath them matched the rhythm of their intertwined fingers. “I have been waiting to do this with you.” Markus stood by Valeria's side, his touch offering both support and reassurance as they stood on the deck together. Valeria settled onto a plush sofa, a contented sigh escaping her lips as she relaxed into the cushions. Markus remained by her side, ever attentive to her needs. “You shouldn’t stand for so long.” With a tender smile, he returned moments later, a tray balanced carefully in his hands. Upon it rested a glass of freshly squeezed juice, vibrant and inviting."Here you go, my love," Markus murmured, offering her the glass. Valeria's eyes sparkled with gratitude as she accepted it, her fingers brushing against his in a fleeting caress. She could not help but notice his small actions."Thank you, Markus," she whispered, her voice soft with emotion. As she sipped the refreshing juice, she couldn't help but marvel at the depth of their conne
Valeria blinked sleepily, her eyes fluttering open as she stretched languidly. As she rose from the sofa, Markus offered her his hand, the warmth of his touch sending a shiver of anticipation coursing through her veins.Together, they made their way off the ship, their steps light and purposeful as they headed towards the waiting car. The sun bathed the harbour in a soft, golden light, casting a warm glow over everything it touched. Markus held the door open for Valeria, a gesture of chivalry that never failed to make her heart skip a beat.As they settled into the plush interior of the car, Valeria couldn't contain her excitement. "Where are we going?" she asked, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. Markus flashed her a mischievous grin. "It's a surprise," he replied, his voice tinged with anticipation. "But I promise you'll love it."With that, he started the engine, the purr of the car filling the air as they set off towards their destination. As they drove through the bustling stree
The gentle sway of the cruise ship sailed Valeria into a state of relaxation as she reclined on a cosy couch in the private cabinRichie has led her to. The room was adorned with soft, nautical-themed decor, and the soothing sound of waves making her calm. Valeria yawned, feeling the exhaustion from pregnancy.Richie smiled tenderly at Valeria, noting her weariness. He gestured towards the plush bed nestled in the corner of the room. “You look like you could use some rest, Valeria. Why don't you lie down and take a nap? I'll be right here if you need anything. By the time you will wake up we will be at the shore.”Valeria nodded gratefully, feeling grateful for Richie's thoughtfulness. “Thank you! You are so concerned about both of us.” She stretched
Valeria was seated by the window, her gaze fixed on the calm sea scenery outside. She appeared lost in thought, a faint smile playing on her lips. The door creaked open, and Riche entered the room, his presence filling the room with a vibrant energy.Entering with a confident stride he approached Valeria and asked her. “Valeria, my dear, are you ready to go home now?” He sat on the bed with Valeria and kissed her forehead.Valeria turned from the window, her eyes brightening at the sight of Riche. She shot up gracefully from her seat, a sense of excitement twinkling in her eyes. She could not help but feel good at the thought of going home.Valeria kept smiling warmly as he responded to Riche. “I've been ready since the moment you came here, richie.
After bidding Markus and Richardson bye, Valeria made her way to her room. ‘Something is definitely not right with Markus.’ With each step, her thoughts swirled with a mixture of confusion and curiosity. Valeria knew that things were not simple as they seemed because a man like Markus was not going to leave her alone.Entering her room, Valeria closed the door behind her and sank onto the edge of the plush bed, the events of the morning weighing heavily on her mind. As she gazed out of the window at the moonlit sea, her thoughts turned to Markus's unexpected surprise. ‘I cannot believe that Markus can change his mind. He certainly has something going on in his mind.’"Why did Markus call Richie," Valeria mused aloud, her voice barely above a whisper. "Especially when he initially wanted to ruin our weddi
Markus hesitated for a moment before replying, his gaze turning somber as he tried to generate some excuse for Valeria's disappearance. "I have no idea yet but I am looking into this matter.” Markus explained, her voice tinged with anger. “Don’t worry I am personally looking into this. You two relax and go back home together.”Richardson's jaw clenched with fury as he absorbed Markus's words, his mind reeling with the realization of the danger Valeria had faced. "I swear, I will find whomever is responsible and make him pay for what he has done," he vowed, his voice filled with steely determination.But even as Richardson spoke, a sense of gratitude washed over him as he looked at Markus. “You have to look into this matter, Markus. I want the names!” Knowing that without his intervention, Val
[Chapter 41]As the massive cruise ship finally docked at the harbour, a flurry of activity ensued on the deck. Richardson’s demeanour exuded confidence. “Finally! I am here for you, Valeria.”As he made his way down the gangway, his eyes scanning the shoreline for a familiar face.Waiting patiently at the edge of the dock was Markus, his gaze fixed on the approaching ship with a mix of anticipation and excitement. ‘Forgive me for doing this without asking you, Lily. But now I will only fix things for you.’As Richardson descended the gangway, his eyes locked onto Markus, a smile tugging at the corners of his lips. With purposeful strides, he made his way towards his cousin."Markus!" Richardson called out as he reached by his side, his v
‘Ironic. Isn’t it? I want you now but it is too late.’ As she disappeared inside, Markus watched her go, a sense of peace settling over him knowing that he had been able to make her happy.With a smile of his own, Markus turned his gaze back towards the port, his heart filled with love and gratitude for the woman who had captured his heart. ‘Only if you had loved me this way truly, Lily.’ He saw her going inside when the elderly maid came to fetch her. Valeria’s responsibility was given to her fully and she fulfilled it effectively.As Markus stepped out of the car and onto the soft sand of the beach, he felt a sense of tranquillity wash over him. The gentle sound of the waves lapping against the shore soothed
As much as she did not want to believe in him, something told Valeria that he was telling the truth this time. She reached out to gently caress his cheek, feeling the warmth of his skin beneath her fingertips. "Markus," she whispered, her voice trembling with emotion, "I never realized...I…"Markus silenced her with a tender smile, his eyes shining with love and affection. "I've never been good with words, Valeria," he confessed, his voice soft yet resolute. "But know that every moment I spent without you, after you were gone, away from me and all I had was those memory we created together, were the only things which made me see the depth of my love for you. Seeing you becoming someone else’s made me realise my true emotions for you. I know I am very late to confess all this but still I want to say this.”
Markus offered her a faint smile, gratitude shining in his eyes. "It's not your fault, Valeria," he reassured her, his voice warm with affection. "If anything, it made me realise just how much you mean to me, how much I never want to hurt you again."Valeria's question hung in the air, heavy with the weight of unspoken emotions. “Lily…I…” Markus's expression shifted, his features contorting with a mixture of guilt and anguish. He swallowed hard, his throat suddenly dry, as he struggled to find the right words to explain his actions. "Valeria," he began, his voice barely above a whisper, "I... I don't have an excuse for what I did that night. It was inexcusable, and I regret it more than words can express. I still do regret doing everything which hurt you and made you cry.”V
Markus's gaze softened, his eyes filled with a mixture of regret and sincerity. He took a deep breath, his grip on Valeria's hand tightening slightly as if seeking comfort. "Yes, it is," he admitted quietly. "I'm sorry, Valeria. I should have chosen a different place for us tonight. I didn't mean to bring back any painful memories."Valeria reached out and placed her free hand on top of Markus's, offering him a reassuring squeeze. "It's okay, Markus," she said softly, her voice filled with understanding. "That was in the past. What matters is that we're here together now. What is important is that we have moved on."Markus met her gaze, gratitude shining in his eyes. "Thank you, Valeria," he murmured, his voice tinged with emotion. "You always know how to make everything better. And I promise to make everything