“Here’s your room” I say to Alice, pointing towards a freshly cleaned guest room. “If you need anything just let the home managers know, they’ll be willing to assist you” I say.“Thank you so much for this act” she smiles, tears rolling down her cheeks. “Stop crying, everything will be fine” I say, gently squeezing her hands, “you’re safe now”.“I know, I’m just so grateful” she says, pulling out a handkerchief before carefully dabbing her eyes. “Alright, I’ve got to go discuss things with my husband but if you need me, I’m just a phone call away” I say, with a soft smile on my face before exiting the room and heading upstairs.“Clark?” I call out, switching on the bedroom lights, “Clark” I call out once more, gently knocking on the bathroom door before pushing it open. “I guess he’s not here” I mutter, making my way downstairs in search of Clark.I lightly knock on the door to his office, patient waiting for an audible response before letting myself in. “Come in” his voice, loud and
“How weird” I say, settling in bed beside Clark, “what’s weird?” He asks, pulling me against his chest as we cuddle.“Alice, you know how we discussed about how I would need to convince her to involve a professional lawyer because of her hesitation to involve Lai”“Yeah” he nods, placing a kiss on my cheek, “well, she didn’t complain. She immediately agreed once she heard it was your idea” I say, turning to face him.“Is that a problem?” He asks, giving me another kiss, before moving to study my face. I shake my head, “I guess not, it’s rather a good thing that she didn’t need much convincing” I say, placing my hands in his hair.“You love doing that a lot don’t you?” He asks, a grin on his face. “What?” I ask, my thoughts still on Alice and her willing countenance to go with Clark’s idea.“Playing with my hair” he states clearly, “yeah, your hair is so soft” I smile, running my hands through his hair. “I like it too” he comments, placing a kiss on my lips before pulling me closer to
As we take a turn into the garden, my eyes land on a figure crouched on the ground, seemingly lost in the moment as they sniff the vibrant flowers. “Who’s that?” Clark asks, his curiosity piqued as he also notices the person, though we can only see their back, making it difficult to identify them.No response comes from the strange figure, and it becomes clear that they can’t hear us over whatever music is playing through their earphones. “It seems the person has earphones in,” I say, pointing out the small wires that lead to a phone resting on the grass beside them.“Excuse me,” Clark calls out as we walk closer, but still, there’s no reaction. The figure remains engrossed in the flowers, and with each step we take, I start to notice familiar traits. The way they crouch, the cascade of hair that falls over their shoulder—it’s starting to look more and more like Alice. Once we are less than a foot away, my suspicions are confirmed as I catch a glimpse of her face, a mix of surprise a
Lara’s POVMy eyes settle on her as I try to determine what she's playing at. Did she truly not mean to be here, or was this all an innocent coincidence? She smiles at me with an expression that seems almost too innocent, and I push the nagging thoughts aside, focusing instead on her presence. Alice has never acted wrongly in all the years I’ve known her, so why am I doubting her now? I chastise myself for even entertaining such thoughts. She’s always been a beacon of honesty and kindness, yet here I am, questioning her motives.“Please don’t be upset,” she says softly, her hands gently grasping my arm. I shake my head, a small smile breaking through my earlier tension. “It’s fine; it was our fault for not making it clear to you,” I reply, trying to reassure both her and myself.“Are you ready to return to the house, or do you still want to get some fresh air?” I ask as I rise to my feet, stretching a little as the sunlight warms my skin. “I think I’ve had enough fresh air,” she chuc
“The lawyer is here,” Clark says, gently tapping me as I’m nestled comfortably against him. I blink a few times, trying to shake off the remnants of sleep. “Hmmm, okay,” I reply, sitting upright and stretching slightly, the warmth of the moment still lingering.“It’s funny how you immediately dozed off after the movie,” he chuckles, helping me to my feet with a playful grin. I can’t help but smile back, “I guess I was tired,” I admit, leaning against him as he slips his arm around my waist, grounding me.He smirks, “Well, even if you’re tired, you should prevent breaking your neck,” he states, guiding us down the stairs with a careful ease. “My neck?” I ask, a hint of confusion colouring my voice as I try to piece together his words.He laughs lightly, “Well, if I wasn’t with you on the sofa, you would have fallen down and hurt yourself with the way you kept bobbing your head as you dozed off.” I can’t help but giggle at the image he paints, and I turn to kiss him softly. “Well, than
Lara’s POVElvis nods thoughtfully, his expression serious yet encouraging. “Miss Alice, could you kindly brief me on the entire situation from the start until the present? My assistant will take notes,” he requests, his tone professional but warm.Alice nods, her nerves evident as she gently bites her lips, a habit that surfaces when she’s anxious. “It’s fine, Alice. He’s here to help you,” I reassure her, offering a warm smile to encourage her to share her story without fear.With a deep breath, she shifts her gaze to Elvis, her voice beginning to steady as she recounts the entire ordeal. “It’s been a whirlwind, and this is why I’m currently staying here,” she concludes, her eyes reflecting the weight of her words as she glances between us.Elvis leans in, his expression serious. “And was your ex-boyfriend abusive while you were still dating?” he probes gently, his voice calm and understanding. Alice shakes her head, her expression thoughtful. “Not in the physical sense, but emotio
I hear a gentle knock on the door to my room, the sound echoing softly in the stillness of the night. Clark and I exchange curious glances, both of us wondering who could possibly be at the door at this late hour. “Who’s that?” I ask, slipping on my robe, the fabric brushing against my skin as I feel a mix of anticipation and unease at the sound of another knock.“I’m coming!” I call out, my voice tinged with slight frustration at the persistent knocking. As I open the door, my breath catches in surprise at the sight of Alice standing there in her pyjamas, her hair tousled and eyes wide with concern. “Alice!” I exclaim, taken aback by her unexpected visit.“Is everything alright?” I ask, instinctively closing the door just enough to keep it ajar, allowing Clark to listen in on our conversation without intruding. Alice nods, wrapping her arms around herself as if trying to shield against the chill of the night. “Good evening, Lara. Sorry to disturb you,” she replies, her gaze flickerin
Once the door clicks shut behind her, I hear a rustling from the bed. “Is she gone?” Clark asks, propping himself up on the pillows.I nod, brushing a stray strand of hair behind my ear. “Yeah, she is. I’m sorry about the interruption,” I say, settling into bed and wrapping the duvet around me like a comforting cocoon. “She doesn’t want to go to work tomorrow?” Clark clarifies, his voice low and soothing as he wraps his arms around me, pulling me closer into his embrace. “Yeah,” I nod, feeling the weight of the situation settle between us. “She doesn’t like the thought of leaving the house; unfortunately, she feels she isn’t safe.” I let out a sigh, leaning against his chest, seeking solace in his presence. “And did you tell her there will be security with the both of you?” he asks, concern etched in his voice.I shake my head, frustration bubbling up inside me. “Yeah, I did, but she still wasn’t comfortable with the idea of leaving home. I wond
It was a crisp Saturday morning when Clark and I decided to escape the city for a while. The sun was just starting to rise, casting a golden hue over everything, and I could feel the excitement bubbling inside me. "Are you ready for our adventure?" I asked, glancing over at Clark as he adjusted his backpack. "Absolutely! I've been looking forward to this all week," he replied, a wide grin spreading across his face. His enthusiasm was contagious, and I couldn’t help but smile back. We hopped into the car, the engine humming to life as we set off toward the countryside. As we drove, I watched the scenery change from the bustling streets of Lagos to the serene landscapes outside the city. "Look at that view, Lara!" Clark exclaimed, pointing towards a sprawling field dotted with wildflowers. I turned my head just in time to see a burst of color against the green backdrop. "It's beautiful," I said, feeling a sense of peace wash over me. "We should stop and take some pictures." Clark pu
As we dig into the meal, the aroma of the food fills the air, wrapping around us like a comforting blanket. The table is adorned with a colorful spread—fresh fruits glistening in the sunlight, a platter of scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and golden-brown toast, all meticulously arranged to create a feast for the senses. I watch as he takes his first bite, his eyes lighting up in delight. “This is incredible,” he exclaims, savoring each mouthful as though it’s the best thing he’s ever tasted. I can’t help but smile at his enthusiasm; it’s moments like these that remind me of the joy of sharing a meal with someone special.We fall into a comfortable rhythm, the clinking of cutlery and the soft sounds of chewing filling the space between us. I take a moment to observe him, the way he enjoys his food, the little quirks that make him uniquely him. There’s something so endearing about the way he closes his eyes for a brief second as he savors the flavors, as if he’s trying to capture the mome
I smile, nestling deeper into his embrace, “what’s done is done, there’s nothing we can do about it now. And it’s not like you can fire her after all you went through to hire her” I say, sympathetically.He shakes his head, “right now, I’m thinking very much of firing her. She can’t go scot free with that sort of behaviour”. I smile, “no let it be Clark, I don’t want to leave you without help at the office. As long as this was a one time thing then I’m fine, let’s move on” He smiles, “you’re just too kind but I can see that your mood isn’t totally lifted. I shrug, wearing a tired smile, “I just feel trained after that conversation, why don’t you go ahead and have lunch without me. I’ll eat later” I say.He shakes his head, “no way, you came all the way to my office for us to eat together. So what can I do to lift your mood” he says, a mischievous smile on his face. “Letting me sleep” I chuckle, suddenly feeling very tired.“I’ll let you do that in due time, but please let’s have lun
“Afternoon Miss Denie, you require our assistance” one of them says. She nods, “yes please kindly escort this woman downstairs”. They both turn to face me, their eyes widening in shock, before returning their attention to her, “that’s Mr Clark’s wife, please excuse us” they say, before exiting the room.I watch as Denie remains immobile and speechless as she processes their words. I don’t bother getting up as I patiently wait for Clark’s arrival.In less than a minute, Clark walks into the room, concern evident on his face as he walks directly towards me. “You sounded upset, is everything fine my love?” He asks, crouching down as he takes my hand.I look behind him to see Debie’s eyes widen at her mistake. I shake my head, “not really. I closed work early to come suprise you with some food and drinks” I say, raising up the lunch bag for emphasis.“But I was met with insults and disrespectful t from your assistant. She wouldn’t even let me inside your office. To think she actually cal
I’m met by a woman who seems to be in her late 20’s. She is seated in Lai’s former desk. Her auburn hair drops over her shoulders, and her hazel eyes catch my attention. “Good afternoon” she says, rising to my feet, a surprised look on her face as she slowly assesses me.Feeling uncomfortable with being under her scrutiny, I mumble a quick greeting before walking towards Clark’s office. “I’m sorry you can’t go in there” she says, blocking my path.I look up at her, obviously surprised at her audacity, “excuse me” I say, trying hard to control my emotions. She gives me a smile, which is more of a mocking smile, “I’m sorry but you can’t see Mr Clark right now, you shouldn’t even be up here. I wonder who let you in here” she says, frustratedly running her hands through her hair.I chuckle, slightly moving backwards as she’s right in my face at the moment. I quietly assess her, wondering how to address the situation. I force my lips to form into a smile, “I don’t appreciate the tone that
Clark brushes a strand of hair behind my ear, his touch gentle and reassuring. “We’re in this together, babe. No one can come between us,” he assures me, and I believe him. Our bond is unbreakable, forged through years of shared experiences, laughter, and even tears. I lean into him, feeling safe and secure in his arms.“Remember that time when we first met?” I ask, trying to lighten the mood. Clark grins, his eyes sparkling with nostalgia. “How could I forget? You were so sassy, but you still managed to charm me with that confidence of yours,” he confesses, his voice filled with warmth. “Yeah, I can be quite sassy,” I admit, “but I didn’t know this side to you. You were definitely worth it.” Clark’s smile widens, and I can see the pride in his eyes. “And look where we are now,” he says, pulling me closer. “Married, happy, and in love. It’s a beautiful journey we’re on.”I nod, feeling a swell of gratitude for the life we’ve built together. “I wouldn’t trade it for anything,” I say e
Jordan coughs, obviously uncomfortable with being made the third wheel, “I think you guys would love to be alone, so I’ll just leave and catch up with the others” he says, attempting to rise to his feet.Clark shakes his head, “absolutely not, I honestly don’t mind your presence here. A friend of my wife is mine” he states. Jordan smiles, “thank you, but in all honesty I have some things to discuss with Lai. Please excuse me and it was nice meeting you Clark” he says, before walking away leaving Clark and I to ourselves.“Why were you alone with him?” Clark asks, studying me. I smile, “I wasn’t alone with him, I was basically in the open. I purposely discussed with him, where you could easily see us” I say, chuckling at his jealous display.He smiles, “well I don’t like the fact that he keeps hovering around you. You might not be able to see it but I can definitely tell that he like you” smh r says, drawing me closer to him.“How so?” I ask, my tone evidencing my surprise at his words
“So what have you been up to?” Jordan asks, as we settle down. I shrug, partially intrigued by his sudden interest in my life, “nothing much to be honest. Just the usual, handling my business and enjoying my married life” I say, with a smile as I dwell on my relationship with Clark.Jordan chuckles, “how’s that going? Last time I saw you guys, you were both heavily invested in an argument” he says, slightly leaning forward. I chuckle, “you know how couples are, we fight and we make up. It’s all part of the process of understanding each other and learning to understand each other's triggers and boundaries” I say, my gaze drifting to Clark who’s heavily invested in a conversation before returning my attention to Jordan. “So you guys are good?” He asks, suggestively. I nod, “we are more than good, I’m in love with that man” I say, my smile huge as I set my boundary. “What about you, how’s life going?” I ask, shifting the attention from me.He shrugs, “nothing much, except from the fact
“Heyy Belle” I say, running to give her a hug, almost tripping along the way. “Careful Lara” Clark yells after me. “How are you doing?” I ask, pulling her into a hug, before releasing her as I examine her face.She smiles, “I’m hardly getting sleep with Tululla’s sleeping schedule. But in all honesty everyday feels like a blessing to have my little girl in my arms” she states.I nod, totally understanding what she means, “what about Lai?” I ask, scanning the room for my brother. “He’s over there with your dad and mine,” she says, pointing towards a section of the backyard.“They must be giving him some stupid parent advice” I joke, noticing how serious their conversation is. “Heyy Belle” Clark says, embracing her with a hug, “how are you doing?” He asks, returning to my side.She chuckles, “your wife already asked that. Like I told her, I feel blessed” she says, a wide smile on her face and I can tell that this is the happiest she’s been since I’ve met her. Clark nods, “alright, let