Unable to cope with his silence again, Amira, filled with apprehension and trepidation, took a step forward, muttering his name. "Aidan... please."Xander noticed Aidan's reluctance and asked, "Aidan, what's wrong?"Aidan, his voice steady but firm, responded, "I love Karina, and I want to raise Sophie with her. That's what I want, Mother."Amira took a shaky step backward, still maintaining her smile. "But... Aidan, think about everything we've built."Cruzita's face twisted with anger. "You can't be serious! That woman—""Is the mother of my child," Aidan cut in sharply. "And I will stand by her."Kayla, sensing the tension, added, "This is a family matter. We need to support Aidan's decision, regardless of how it doesn't seem good."Cruzita's eyes narrowed. "Supporting him doesn't mean we have to accept her."Amira, now more composed, said, "Let's not forget what's best for the girl. She needs stability. But, Aidan, I can do—"Aidan nodded and cut in, "Exactly. And that stability in
Tara shook her head, panic rising in her voice. "I can't do that! It's illegal, and I could lose my job…"Karina tightened her grip, her voice low and threatening. "If you don’t, I will make sure you lose much more than your job. Do you understand me?"Tara's eyes filled with tears as she nodded, her voice barely above a whisper. "Yes, I understand."Karina released her, stepping back with a cold smile. "Good. You will make sure the new results show Aidan isn't the father. If you fail, I will ruin you. Do you hear me?"Tara nodded again, wiping her tears. "Yes, I'll do it."Karina let go of her and tilted her head with a sadistic smile. "I know your name and everything regarding you like the back of my hand. This hospital belongs to my family, and I can easily have you fired. You went so far as to take something off my daughter to undergo the DNA test. Now I understand why you were lurking around her some days ago."Tara, holding back another batch of tears, nodded, muttering an apolo
Amira ignored her, pulling out her phone and dialing Riley’s number. When Riley answered, Amira's voice was a seething whisper. "It's been almost a day, Riley. I haven't heard any good news from you."Riley's voice trembled on the other end. "I-I’m looking for the perfect time to carry out the mission.""You have less than 24 hours," Amira snapped. "Do what I ordered, or you'll lose your life." She hung up without waiting for a response.Linda giggled softly, watching Amira's fury. "You really know how to lay down the law, don't you?"Amira shot her a cold look. "Save your comments for someone who cares." She stormed out of the warehouse, leaving Linda behind.Meanwhile, Riley entered her house, still shaking from Amira's call. She headed to her room, slumping on the bed in fear. Her mother, Martha, walked in with a gladdened expression."Mother, I couldn't focus at work today," Riley blurted out, sitting up. "Amira just called me and—"Martha interrupted softly, "Relax, Riley. I have
Karina watched the exchange, her mind racing. She hadn't expected her daughter to say that in such a manner. Lucas couldn't say anything but smiled as he stared at Karina, who simply nodded and asked her daughter not to talk much again. Then she sat down and continued reading.As Lucas settled back in a seat nearby, he thought to himself, "This is just the beginning. I will find a way to make Karina see that I’m the one she needs.” Then he eyed Sophie, who was now listening to Karina's reading, and clenched his fist, his expression twisting.Meanwhile, Aidan arrived at the hospital, a big smile on his face as he headed inside with the flowers he bought. Tara, seeing him as she emerged at the reception, quickly rushed over and stopped him.Before he could say anything, she pulled him along to a nearby hallway and into a supplies room. Closing the door behind them, she asked sternly, "What are you doing here?"He chuckled, holding up the flowers. "I'm here to give these to my daughter.
Lucas watched Aidan leave, then turned to Sophie, giving her a reassuring smile. "How about another chapter from me?"Sophie shook her head. "I would love to rest now." She settled back into her bed. As Sophie began sleeping, Karina quickly stepped out and stopped Aidan in the hallway. She approached him, bawling, "You want to snatch my daughter."Aidan shook his head, attempting to talk, but she cut him off, huffing, "She's not yours, Aidan."He interrupted softly, admitting, "I know. I saw the result and…" He paused as she gave him a surprised look, feigning obliviousness. “How did you know now?" She raised an eyebrow.He waved and dismissed her question, saying, "Anyway, I know I'm not her father. She's Lucas’ daughter, but… it’s not going to change anything. I'm her friend and she means a lot to me."She pushed him back slightly, stating strongly, “She's not your friend…"Lucas's voice chimed in, saying, "I don't want you to be friends with my daughter."Karina turned to see him
A few days later, Karina returned home with Sophie. The family had already decorated the house for Sophie, creating a festive and welcoming atmosphere. Everyone was delighted to see the cheerful Sophie back home.When Gina approached Sophie with a balloon, wanting to hug her, Sophie stepped away and stood behind Karina. Zora got closer to them and asked Sophie gently, "Sweetheart, why are you staying away from your Aunt Gina?"Sophie looked up at Zora with wide, earnest eyes. "Grand Aunt, she led me to the stairs that day and said we were going to play."Gina was taken aback, her face a mix of shock and confusion. "Sophie, I wasn't home that day. I was at the company," she protested, her voice tinged with desperation. Everyone turned to look at her, a mixture of suspicion and curiosity in their eyes.Karina, her expression firm, gestured to one of the household staff. "Please take Sophie to her room to rest. She’s had a long day," she instructed. Sophie glanced back at Gina one last ti
Noticing Karina's steel expression, Zora continued. “Even if Hana is just your late mother's cousin and has been living with us with Gina under this roof since your mother died, Gina is a sister to you, Karina. A sister wouldn't harbor the thought of hurting her sister's child, you know."Phoebe and Aaron nodded.Phoebe said, "Gina is like the big sister I always wanted. She's not capable of anything bad."Aaron joined in, "I believe in Gina’s innocence. We've spent over a decade with her, and she’s always been trustworthy."Karina muttered, "You all have spent over a decade with Gina and know her, but I don't. I only know my daughter well." She stared at Gina with an accusing expression. Hana couldn't take it any longer and defended her daughter, "Karina, your lack of trust issues is hurting my daughter. Gina has done nothing wrong!"Karina didn't respond, her face set in determination.Martha firmly asked, "We need to get the police involved. Gina will tell the truth after a little
Karina's grandfather’s eyes widened in shock. "Karina, what do you mean? You can’t just leave.”Karina took his hand, trying to reassure him. "Grandfather, I will come visit with Sophie from time to time. But right now, I have to do what’s best for her."Gina stepped forward, desperation in her voice. "Karina, please don’t go. We can figure this out together."Karina shook her head. "No, Gina. My mind is made up."Gina’s eyes filled with repressed tears. "Before you go, I need to tell you something. That night, I saw Riley in Sophie’s room. I believe my mother is right. Riley and Aunt Martha are up to no good."Martha rolled her eyes. "Gina, stop with the nonsense."Gina continued, "I took the glass from Sophie’s room and had it tested. It was proven that there was cyanide in the water Riley almost made Sophie drink."Phoebe, standing nearby, confirmed Gina’s statement. "It’s true. I had stopped Sophie from drinking that water."Elijah, Riley’s father, glared at Gina. "These are seriou
A Few Months LaterLife had started to return to normal for Karina and Sophie. Sophie, with the help of therapy and the constant support from Aidan and Karina, had begun to heal from the trauma of her kidnapping. They spent their weekends visiting parks, and museums, and sometimes just enjoying quiet family picnics, which helped Sophie find joy again.Karina and Aidan, too, had found a new rhythm in their relationship. They decided to set aside their past differences and work together for Sophie’s happiness and welfare. Aidan's family, especially his mother, Cruzita, had also mended fences with Karina. The shared goal of giving Sophie a stable and loving environment brought them closer.Meanwhile, Lilly had undergone her transplant surgery, thanks to the Everhardt family's efforts in finding a suitable donor. Her recovery was a beacon of hope amidst the chaos.During these months, Anita and Amira faced their trials. Amira’s defense team, led by her best lawyers, had fought tirelessly t
The atmosphere was charged with a mixture of dread and desperate hope, a battle of wills playing out in the room.The men appeared, one of them carrying Sophie on his shoulder as she squirmed and cried. Karina called out desperately, "Sophie! Sophie!"Anita's expression turned concerned as she watched the scene unfold, her eyes flickering between Karina and Sophie. “I’m doing you the honors because I’m a mother too. Use this moment well and say goodbye properly to your daughter.” She signaled to the man, who dropped Sophie down and the other went and untied Karina. The little girl ran to Karina, her face tear-streaked and trembling.“Mommy, I missed you,” Sophie cried, trembling.Karina managed a smile through her tears, cuddling her daughter tightly.“Don’t worry, darling. I’m here. Nothing will happen to you.” She scanned Sophie’s face, then shot an angry look at Anita. “Why does my daughter look like this? What have you been doing to her?!”Anita shrugged nonchalantly. “Just keep
Karina watched with teary, weary eyes as Anita paced impatiently. Lucas stood nearby, his face a mask of frustration. Juliana returned, her face pale as she informed them that Lilly was ready.Lucas sneered at Anita. “Where are your men? They should’ve been here by now.”“They’re coming. They should be—” She was cut off by a knock on the door.Anita took a step forward, but Lucas stopped her with a raised hand. He went to open the door and returned with two burly men in tow.“What the heck kept you guys?” Anita snapped.“Sorry, ma’am. Traffic was a nightmare,” one of the men apologized.Anita hissed. “Fine. Lucas, they’ll go get Sophie now.”Lucas nodded, watching them head upstairs before turning his gaze back to Karina, who was sobbing and staring at him with a mix of sorrow and betrayal.“Lucas, I never thought you could do this to me,” she choked out, her voice trembling with a mix of desperation and heartbreak.He leaned forward, feigning remorse. “I’m sorry, love. You know I ha
Anita asked, tensed, “What are we going to do?”“Tie her up!” Lucas commanded. He dragged a chair and placed Karina on it, securing her tightly with ropes. “Where are your guys who are supposed to take Sophie to the facility?” he grumbled.“They are on their way,” Anita muttered, nervously glancing at Karina.Lilly appeared, her eyes widening in horror as she saw Karina, who was now bleeding from the head. “Mommy, what happened to Aunt Karina?”Lucas flicked his gaze at the girl, snarling, “Ugh, this girl. Take her to her room and get her ready, Mother!”Juliana quivered and walked to Lilly. “Let’s go, my dear,” she said softly, leading Lilly upstairs as Lucas continued tying Karina to the chair.In the Everhardt mansion, Aidan walked into the house. “Where’s Karina?” he asked Gina.“She went to the office about 30 minutes ago,” Gina replied.He nodded and turned to leave but stopped as Georgia walked in with some files in her hands. “Georgia, have you seen Karina?” he quickly asked.
Aidan and Karina arrived at the Everhardt mansion, the tension palpable between them. Aidan got out of his car and quickly walked up to her, his tone urgent. "Karina, I think we should inform Inspector Kai."Her eyes widened in surprise. "No. We shouldn't.""What? Why?" Aidan asked, bewildered."Lucas is no fool," Karina explained, her voice steady but tense. "He might have figured that I didn't just come to his family's house looking for him. I'm sure Anita told him already that she saw me at the hospital, and then he figured out that he messed up by lying to me twice."Aidan shook his head in frustration. "So, what are we going to do? Stay calm when Sophie's earring was lying in their house?"She sighed deeply, struggling to keep her composure. "Aidan, we shouldn't react impulsively. Lucas shouldn't think that I'm suspecting him."Aidan eyed her with concern. "Are you scared of him or what?""I'm just considering the odds and possibilities now. What if… my daughter is in that house
Karina answered it, faking her cheerful voice. "Hello, Lucas.""Hi, Karina. Uh, sorry but you can't see Anita or Lilly."Her brows creased. "What? Why?""They left the country. They went to Switzerland.""But you said we could have dinner with them, Lucas.""Yes, I had no idea they left. I just called my mom and she told me about it."She nodded. "So, when did they leave?""Last night, yeah."She nodded. "Okay. It's fine. Let's talk later." She ended the call and groaned. "He lied again."Aidan asked, "What happened?""I saw Anita and Lilly less than an hour ago, and he said they left last night," she concluded.Aidan's expression turned grim. "He's definitely hiding something, Karina.""I feel so too. I need to go over to his family's house.""I'm coming with you.""But you're going to stay outside and hide. Paraventure Lucas shows up, he shouldn't see you."He agreed, and they left. Aidan followed Karina's car as she drove to the Salvatore Mansion.When Karina arrived, she placed so
The air in the room shifted, charged with a new, tense energy.Lucas's face darkened, his jaw clenched tightly."Karina?" he muttered, half to himself, half to Amira. The intimacy between him and Amira shattered instantly, replaced by a complicated mix of fear, guilt, and anger.Amira pulled back slightly, her eyes wide with surprise and worry. “What do we do?" she whispered, her voice trembling.Lucas took a deep breath, trying to steady himself. "Stay quiet," he ordered, his tone leaving no room for argument. He disentangled himself from Amira, his expression hardening as he prepared to face whatever was waiting for him on the other side of the door.Lucas started heading to the door and halted. He spun and gestured at Amira to go hide somewhere. She quickly grabbed her clothes and ran off, her footsteps light as she disappeared into another room. He exhaled deeply, trying to steady himself."Lucas, are you there…?" Karina's voice was tinged with impatience."Uh, I'm coming!" he ca
Anita held Lilly’s hand tightly as they walked into an examining room in an extinguished hospital owned by the Algernon family. She had brought Lilly for a discreet proper checkup. She had been meticulous in ensuring this visit would be confidential, preparing for the upcoming transplant surgery. After the doctor had thoroughly examined Lilly, they all returned to his office, a tense silence hanging in the air.The doctor sat behind his desk, looking over Lilly’s charts before raising his eyes to Anita."So, Mrs. Anita, when is Lilly scheduled for the transplant?"Anita forced a smile, her mind racing for a believable answer. "We’re taking her to England for the transplant. A hospital there has found a suitable donor."The doctor frowned, clearly puzzled. "England? Which hospital, if you don't mind me asking? We need to transfer her medical records and ensure they have all the necessary information."Anita’s responses became increasingly evasive. "It's a private facility. They’ve as
Soon, Amira matched Lucas’s vigor, her enthusiasm doubling his pleasure. He growled and moaned, “Good girl, keep going.” She finished, then licked him from his V-line up to his chest, biting his nipples. Lucas groaned, his body tensing with the mix of pleasure and pain.“You’re not scared of me?” he muttered hoarsely.Amira smiled naughtily. “Why would I be? I know you won’t kill me.”He nodded, kissing her forehead. “I won’t. You're just different.” They started kissing passionately, their lips moving in a synchronized dance of lust and dominance. She asked between breaths, “How?”He chuckled, pulling back to look at her. “Everyone considers me a monster.”They locked gazes, Amira’s eyes piercing into his as she smirked. “We’re alike. Raymond used to be someone special to me before. I loved and adored him.” Her tone turned flat and callous. “But I killed him.”Lucas grinned. “I’m not like you, darling. I don’t kill the ones I love. Only those who give me trouble.”She started care