∆IVORY∆"Ms. Ivory, we are honored to invite you as a guest to our press conference, Aromatic Aspirations: Celebrating New Brands." The message on my phone is still so unreal, I reread it multiple times making sure it isn't a dream."Finally, my bestie is a celebrity!" Pearl jumped on me to hug, breaking my chain of thought. Immediately I received a call from them, as soon as I answered the call, "Hello, Ivory speaking." "Hello Ms. Ivory, I'm Carla, an assistant assigned to you for this event, we would like to get your address, so that we can send a car and entry pass to you, is it okay with you?" Carla gently spoke, Pearl is already overjoyed hearing it..Though I'm nervous, I finally said, "Sure, I'll share my address with you, by the way is it possible for me to bring my friend along with me?"I don't want to leave Pearl alone, she has been a part of my journey till now, and played a crucial role in encouraging and helping me, Carla immediately responded, "Of course you can brin
∆IVORY∆"Ahhh!" I stumbled, as my heels betrayed me at the worst possible moment, and the cold glass floor invited me to its embrace."Am I going to fall?" The thought screamed in my mind as I closed my eyes in dear, but the answer came quickly.No, I didn’t. I was surprised as my body didn't touch the glass floor, instead, I landed in protective arms, and a gentle embrace kept me safe with the similar fragrance of cologne."You're safe," That husky voice made me open my eyes, and it was him, Alexander Kingston. The man I had been trying so hard to keep my composure around.The disappointment I had moments ago because of his absence now replaced with happiness in his presence, my heart was beating so fast, half from the near-fall accident and half from the realization that I'm still in his embrace.I could feel the weight of the moment, the camera flashes from the press capturing what was probably the most embarrassing yet oddly romantic scene of my life.No, I can't let it happen! I
∆NO POV∆"Ms. Ivory, the rising star of the city," The voice coming out of the television, without thinking twice, Jacob threw the flower vase towards television breaking it being enraged after hearing Ivory's name.His frustration was evident as he kicked the magazines and newspapers scattered on the floor. Each one has a common theme, Ivory’s name, her accomplishments, her rising status with her new start-up."Ivory... Ivory," he spat, his voice laced with bitterness. "Why is she everywhere? Why should her name be on everyone’s lips?" The loud commotion made Robert and Valeria to rush into the living room."Oh my God!" Valeria gasped, covering her mouth with her hand. "What on earth have you done, Jacob? Look at this mess!"She stared at the broken television, the imported vases reduced to shards, and the chaos Jacob had unleashed.Jacob stomped on the magazine with the photo of Ivory, "She.... She is the reason mom, that smile on her face as if she is mocking me!" Robert sighed a
∆IVORY∆"Beep"The sound when money is credited to my account, it's always enlightening, I checked my bank balance only to be surprised while smiling like a fool, being independent like this feels truly like a dream come true."Yes, I made it.... I finally made it!" That proud feeling made me to forget the hardships, struggles, inner fear, conflicts, the past few months felt like a whirlwind, a mix of heartbreak, loneliness, achievements, fame and success, everything, a pain that made me shred tears, the same pain turned into happiness bringing a smile on my face.I'm living a life free from shadows once pulled me into darkness, no longer needed to be obedient or submissive to anyone, I'm living for myself, no need to impress anyone, this spotlight came with its own share of doubts and challenges but made me stronger than ever.I've been living in Pearl's house till now, but now I've enough money to buy my own house, so it's time for me to settle down in a house brought with my own m
∆IVORY∆"Regret?" I let out a sarcastic laugh showing her words doesn't show any kind of effect on me. "The only regret I have is wasting my time listening to you and your nonsense, now, get out of my house." Jessica clenched her jaw while glaring at me, "You think you can stop me? I know how to take what I want." I narrowed my eyes at her bluffing, "And I know how to protect what’s mine, I don’t hold on to trash, Jessica, I let it go to make room for treasure." She knows very well who is the trash I'm talking about, her face flushed with anger."Enjoy it while it lasts, Ivory, success is fickle, and when it slips away, don’t say I didn’t warn you." Turning around, she stomped her foot in frustration before storming out, slamming the door behind her."What the hell? Whose house is this?" I sighed while checking the door, "This is my house, which I brought with my own money, how can she slam my door like this? If it breaks, I'll sue her!"I took a breath in relief that my door is
∆IVORY∆"Yes," I responded, feeling the heat pass to my cheeks, even I'm not sure why I'm blushing furiously but I knew it's all because of that teasing smirk on his face as if he is enjoying this situation, his lips curled into a sly smile, "I like it." "Huh?" I blinked being puzzled by his sudden statement not understanding what he meant by he like it, whether the smell or him being the first one to have it!"The scent," he clarified, holding up the bottle and taking another sniff. "I like the smell, it reminds me of you, elegant and bold." I couldn't help but to let out a small smile, but my mind was stuck in a loop, replaying that accidental kiss over and over, the warmth of his lips on mine that's still fresh and raw, I never thought a man's lips could be this soft until his lips touched mine.Every time I tried to push that thoughts of mine, the memory kept coming back in like a whisper I couldn’t ignore anymore, "How it would've felt if it's not a peck but a deep kiss? Doe
∆ALEXANDER∆"Looks like you're so happy tonight?" Kavin grinned while driving the car, and I'm so busy with tracing a finger on my lips where her lips touched earlier.Glancing at Kavin, I said, "Maybe, I should thank you for that," Kavin chuckled keeping his steady gaze at the road, "So, I think I deserve some bonus for my hardwork, right?" Opening my mobile, I sent money to him immediately, "Done!" "Thanks boss," He adjusted the front mirror, "I'll try my best for you from now onwards." I laughed at his words, and stared out of the window, passing cars and corners of roads, but none of these are in mind, the only thing that's running in my mind is her smile and innocent expression of her's, how could I even forget that memorable moment?"The house, just as you said, it was sold for a very low price not even half the original price," Kavin informed me about the house I arranged for Ivory, and I totally forgot about that until he mentioned it now, I smiled, "That's good, as long as
∆ALEXANDER∆"I'm apologizing for everything, Uncle," Jacob began, with a tone almost convincing me, "For the way I spoke with you that day and for insulting Ivory, I'm extremely sorry uncle." I nearly laughed after hearing to an apology from my nephew. Jacob apologizing? To anyone, let alone me? It was unheard of till today, I don't remember even his parents recieving an apology from him, what kind of surprising moment is this?Well I'm not that easy to be convinced, I'm sure he wasn't here out of remorse, he had a hidden agenda, and I had no intention of making this easy for him."Apologies are just words, Jacob," I said coldly, leaning back in my chair. "What do you really want?"Jacob tried his best to put on an act, "Uncle, are you suspecting me? Don't you trust me?""Jacob, I've seen you for years, I'm your uncle, do you think I really can't see through this facade of yours?' I crossed my arms, "So, put down that act of yours and speak the truth." His smile faltered for a seco
∆NO POV∆"Jacob...." Jessica groaned in pain, Jacob gently held her hand, "you'll be fine, don't worry." The hospital waiting room was cold, not just in temperature, but with everything. The sterile scent of antiseptic lingered in the air, mingling with tension so thick it pressed down on everyone’s chests.Jessica had been wheeled into the emergency room barely twenty minutes ago, screaming in pain, blood soaking through her pale pink designer dress. The chaos of the press conference now felt like a distant nightmare. Here, in the hospital's dim light, the aftermath was beginning to settle like ash after a fire.Jacob sat in the corner, elbows on his knees, hands tangled in his hair. His eyes were wild and rimmed with red, fixed on the door behind which Jessica had disappeared.Valeria stood near the window, arms crossed, her face is hard as a stone.Robert paced a short distance away, phone pressed to his ear, whispering frantically to someone on the other end.The silence brok
∆NO POV∆"A husband standing up for his wife, since from when it is labelled as a sin?" Eric sneered, eyeing on Jacob, Robert and Valeria, especially glared at Jessica who caused all the mess in Ivory's life.Alexander adjusted his coat and glanced at Ivory with a smile, "If protecting my wife is a sin, then I don't mind being a sinner." In an instant, the entire scenario in the conference hall has changed.Jacob felt inwardly, "So, Ivory never lied, she almost got molested and forced by this bastard, then why did Jessie said Ivory was lying about that out of jealousy back then?" "Mr. Alexander, you were not wrong to attack such an abusive person," one female reporter said firmly."Not at all.""You were right to stop him, we are proud that you took a stand not just for your wife but for all women." A wave of support filled through the hall.But one question came cutting through the noise, sharp as a knife."What about your family?" A reporter hired by Valeria asked, stepping forwa
∆NO POV∆"Is he really here?" "Mr. Eric Lawrence by his side, what are they planning?" "Are they here to answer or apologise?" The grand conference hall buzzed with anticipation, every seat filled, every camera focused from the main stage to Alexander and Ivory.The air was thick with curiosity, as all the reporters and industry giants whispered among themselves, hungry for a story that would make headlines across the country.Just then, the trio made an appearance in the conference hall.Alexander stepped into the hall, radiating command in his black tailored suit, beside him walked Ivory, dressed in a pristine cream-colored outfit that mirrored her name. Her eyes, though soft, held a slight nervousness, and at her other side, calm and confident as always, was Eric, his demeanor as casual as his untucked shirt and smug grin.The moment they stepped inside, the energy shifted into new level.The crowd rushed forward, reporters scrambling to reach them, microphones and flashes risi
∆NO POV∆"I'll take care of it," Alexander said and hung up the call, he had a long conversation with Eric about the press meet Jacob is planning along with that investor.It was nearly midnight, he totally forgot the time while talking in the call, once he was done with the call, he decided to speak with Ivory, knowing she needs him by her side now.While Ivory sat curled on the couch, the TV off, but the screen still casting a pale glow across the room. She clutched a pillow to her chest, eyes distant just like how she was lost in her own thoughts.Alexander stepped in, carrying two cups of lavender tea."Still awake?" He asked gently.She nodded with a smile. "I can’t sleep, with everything going on I can't even imagine taking a nap without worrying, tomorrow they’ll say useless things about you… and about me, that Jacob is looking for an opportunity to ruin you, they wants Kingston group of companies to be theirs, and now we ourselves gave them a chance to turn things against yo
∆NO POV∆"Nothing," Alexander said calmly with a smile, Ivory blinked, being confused by his answer. "What do you mean by nothing?"Just then, the door got opened, and Eric walked in, carrying a leather folder in one arm and a confident grin is on his face."Is he your plan?" Ivory asked, glancing between the two men who just smiled at each other.Eric leaned over and casually wrapped an arm around Ivory's shoulder. "Yes, my dear princess, and I brought you one of the best gifts, a very important one." He held up a slim black pendrive between his fingers."You found it? That quickly?" Alexander asked, his tone instantly sharper, and curious.Eric nodded, tossing the pendrive into Alexander's hand. "What did you even think of me? I'm the best, and every rotten truth about that scumbag is here, he is much worse than we thought." Ivory looked between them, trying to keep up. "What is that?"Eric turned to her, with a serious face. "The dark secrets of that investor bastard, the man your
∆NO POV∆"Ivory, did you look at the news? What's happening?" Pearl's message out of nowhere in the morning made Ivory to look into the news early in the morning."Heir to Kingston Empire Attacks Respected Investor" "Violence at High-Class Restaurant""Who Is the Woman Behind the Blow?"Headlines screamed with speculation, as a video surrounding everywhere, which was clearly shot on someone’s phone, captured the moment Alexander's fist collided with the investor’s jaw. It looped over and over on social media platforms, it didn't take long before phone calls started pouring in.Ivory looked stunned looking at the news and the number of phone calls he is getting because of that particular incident.Alexander was in his study with a clenched jaw, as the screen of his phone lit up with Jacob’s name. He ignored it once. Twice. But the third time, he picked up with an irritated face."You’re out of your damn mind, aren’t you?" Jacob sneered through the speaker, "When you teach us how t
∆IVORY POV∆"You can stop flirting," I blushed slightly, but he just smiled at me, I'm not sure what got into me when I kissed him, but I really wanted to do it very badly.I thought he would be teasing me about that kiss forever, but thankfully he didn't even mention about that, for some reason I felt protected and relieved.Maybe from now onwards whenever I see that man, I won't be scared like before, because there's someone who trusts me and stands by my side.The car ride home was silent.Not cold or awkward… just quiet still our eyes and hearts spoke more than any words can do.My fingers remained laced tightly on my lap, and I could still feel the warmth of Alexander’s hand over mine earlier, right before he stormed back into the restaurant and threw that punch that echoed louder than any scream I could’ve let out.He hadn’t said a word after our conversation, but I can see him being protective for me.His jaw was still tight, his eyes on the road, knuckles bruised and scraped.
∆ALEXANDER POV∆"Do you think you deserve to live?" My knuckles collided with his jaw before I even heard myself curse.The crack was satisfying. Not just because of the force, but because it silenced him. The smirk wiped clean off his arrogant face, replaced by blood and the stunned realization that someone wasn’t afraid of him.My blood boiled just after knowing this man dared to hurt my Ivory, how can I even allow him to live after what he has done to her?Gasps echoed through the restaurant, champagne glasses froze mid-air, whispers rippled around like wildfire, but I didn’t care.I don't care, because he dared to touch her and he deserves to die.All I saw was him, the bastard who dared to lay a hand on my woman, the fear in Ivory's eyes after seeing him, the woman on whose face I wanted nothing but a smile, but she cried, and looked scared, it's all because of that damn man.He stumbled back, crashing into a table behind him. I stepped forward, my fists still clenched, vision
∆IVORY POV∆"Please fall in love with me..." Did he really say that? Did I really hear him say that?What does he meant by asking me to fall in love with him? Aren't we in a contract marriage, how can love involve in this?I was surprised and taken back, not sure how to react.But holding my hand, he called me for a dance to soft music, he didn't insist on hearing an answer, just giving me time and making me feel comfortable around him.With a twirl, we ended our dance, Alexander caressed my face, "I don't want to hear the response today, but I'll be hearing it soon, you'll give your answer soon, right?" Just as I was about to respond, my eyes noticed someone I shouldn't, I didn’t expect to see him here.The second my eyes landed on him across the crowd and staff around the restaurant, my fingers clenched the fabric of my dress, knuckles turning pale under pressure I couldn’t control. The air around me turned thick, and I felt as if someone had pressed a hand against my throat stra