ELSA ELKINS' POVA sly smirk spread across his face as he pulled back. At that instant I felt greatly intimidated, but then, I refused to give him the satisfaction of seeing me cower. I took a deep breath to still my racing heart, and forced a smile onto my face to stifle the wave of anxiety that had washed over me. Despite my inner turmoil, I linked my arm through his, attempting to appear calm and composed, "You don't have to worry about that, Mr. Kish. I certainly know how to behave," I said in a soft, breathy whisper, but my voice was steady and confident, and as I locked eyes with him, my lips curled into a confident smile,His expression turned grave and his eyes grew darker. "I'm warning you, Elsa, you better don't try to be smarter than you are." His voice was a raspy vibration as his eyes popped open. It was clear he didn't want to take any chances, but I wasn't going to give him the satisfaction of ruling over me.My smile remained steadfast and unfaltering. I didn't ackno
ELSA ELKINS' POV,"Leonard!" Mr. Yuka's voice rang cheerfully. At the same time, he stretched out his hands in a welcoming gesture, making the people with him turn toward us,"A very happy birthday to you, Mr. Yuka," Leonard beamed with a smile on his face, and Just then, I began to ponder what game they were playing."I can see you came with your wife to grace my birthday," Mr. Yuka replied, gesturing towards me with a warm smile on his face. "A very happy birthday to you Mr.Yuka," I said with a warm smile on my face."It's a pleasure to meet you, Mrs. Kish; you look absolutely beautiful," he said, his voice ringing with excitement. "And thank you so much for the birthday wishes," he added, his tone filled with genuine appreciation.A pang of uneasiness settled within me, and I began to wonder why he was so welcoming towards me. As I pondered my thought, I recalled Leonard's earlier warning and Sam's words.I was still immersed in thoughts when Leonard's voice broke into my mind, j
RICHARD YUKA'S POV,As soon as I arrived home that evening I hurried towards the hall where my father was having his birthday party.No sooner had I stepped into the hall than I saw James, his strides towards me were purposeful and deliberate, hinting at a sudden urgency. His determination; evident on his face.From the look on James' face, I could tell he had been looking for me."Welcome, Boss," He said, his tone thick and breathy, as he fell into step beside me. Together, we strode towards the hall's center, where my father stood, flanked by Mr. Ricardo and Mr. Zeus whose laughter boomed off the walls."What's going on?" I asked James since I needed no one to tell me that something was wrong."Your father has been looking for you, Boss," he answered immediately. His voice was laced with an urgency that made my brows furrow.I halted on my track, and I tried to wrap my head around what was going on, but to no avail. I couldn't place my finger around why he was looking for me when he
RICHARD YUKA'S POV,Her smile gradually faded, and she waved towards my face, her gentle gesture calling me back from my reverie. I felt a subtle jolt, and my senses snapped back into focus."May I sit with you?" I asked, gesturing awkwardly towards the space beside her, my tone calm and gentle even as I tried to still my racing heart, At that moment, I had forgotten about the purpose of my search, and all I craved was to dwell in the warmth I had felt earlier, the warmth she radiated."Sure!' she replied warmly with a small smile on her face. With plenty of space beside her, she remained still, her attention fixed on the stars above as if she was inviting me to join her in the vastness of the night sky.I stole a glance at her again, catching a glimpse of her face, and indeed, she was stunningly beautiful.The silence stretched on, and I lifted my eyes toward the direction that had caught her attention, but then I knew I had to say something, even though I wasn't certain about wha
JESSICA ANNA YUKA'S POV,My fist clenched tightly as I watched Leonard and Elsa glide across the dance floor together, their laughter and whispers fueling my growing anger. Seeing them so carefree and intimate sparked a fierce rage within me, making my heartbeat accelerate in a fit of shimmering anger.Elsa had not only ruined my evening and hopes of connecting with Leonard, but had also flipped the script; he not only introduced her to everyone but also established her position as his wife.I knew I couldn't take it anymore so I had to leave, and just when I had managed to dampen my flames, I heard Richard's question, which ignited a new wave of anger within me.I couldn't comprehend why everyone was talking about Elsa. From the expression on his face, and the urgency ringing in his voice, I could tell something was wrong, and I couldn't stop myself from wondering what it could be.A spark of determination ignited in me as I determined to uncover whatever it was, 'Maybe I could lay
ELSA ELKINS' POV,The next morning, I arose early in a great fit of excitement, my determination springing me to my feet. I was ecstatic about the day ahead; I was going to resume my job that day and I couldn't wait to get it rolling.I got to Leonard's door, and as soon as I stood right in front of his black huge door, I realized it was the first time I was standing there despite living together for a while, Just as I was about to knock on Leonard's door, a sudden pang of hesitation halted my hand in mid-air. I froze, envisioning Leonard's reaction and the expression I would see when he opened the door.With the argument from last night still fresh in my memory, the anger that flashed in his eyes as he dragged me to the car lingering in my mind, I felt a heightened sense of hesitation wash over me, but then, I knew I had to face him. I drew in a quick breath, steadying myself, as I shoved my fear behind,'The worst he'd do is not to respond,' I shrugged my shoulders as I voiced out
ELSA ELKINS POV,My smile broadened upon hearing his words, "That was nothing, Mr. Gustavo," I replied in a tone matching his, finally finding my voice."We've never had the opportunity to properly express our gratitude, my wife and I will make sure to do so soon," Mr. Gustavo said with a warm smile on his face."There's no need for that, Mr. Gustavo," I replied quickly, trying to downplay the situation. "Besides, I didn't get hurt," I added, "Thank you for the renovation, Mr. Gustavo. It means a lot to us." I said, keeping my tone low and respectful, careful not to cross any boundaries."I'll be on my way now, Miss Elsa. See you next time." He said calmly, with that, he left with his daughter.The day came to an end and I decided to go to my parent's home to pick up my lesson notes, photo frames, and some of the things I'll be needing, and as soon as I got into my room, the door suddenly opened, "Elsa, you're here!" My mother exclaimed, rushing over to the table where I stood. My l
LEONARD KISH'S POV,Right in the board room were gathered members of the shareholders who had come for further deliberations regarding the ongoing project with J.K."Now that we've completed the initial stage of material procurement, we're gathered today to discuss the financing of the production phase itself," I stated, my tone firm, resolute, and unwavering, as I prepared to propel the project forward.Immediately, Sam stood up and distributed the document outlining the expenditures incurred during the procurement of materials and the proposed production costs,"Left on the fourth page of the document in your hands, you'll find a detailed estimate of the production costs and the required materials, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the project's scope and...""Leonard!" Mr. Ricardo's voice pierced through the thick silence, snapping me off my words.I turned sharply to my left, where he was seated calmly, to find the document on his desk and realized he hadn't opened it.My
ELSA ELKINS' POV,Right at the Orphanage, my initial exuberance was beginning to resurface, since I had shoved every thought about Leonard aside.As I reached for the door handle, Julian's unmistakable voice rang out behind me, making my eyebrows rise in surprise,"Miss Elsa!" She called, her shrill tone slicing through the air. I hadn't expected to see her there, especially since she was supposed to be in school.I turned sharply, and my eyes widened as Julian hurtled towards me, her pigtails bouncing with each step. She stopped right in front of me, beaming with an uncontainable joy that caused my lips to spread apart in smile."Julian!" I exclaimed, "How're you?""I'm fine, Miss Elsa!" Julian chirped, her voice bubbling with excitement, as she gazed up at me.Since she wasn't in school, I feigned seriousness as I attempted to know the reason she had skipped going to school."Why aren't you in school? Where are your parents? Did you come alone again?" I asked, my brow furrowed with
ELSA ELKINS' POV,As soon as I was done, I hurried downstairs, towards the kitchen, and upon getting to the living room, I met Nanny Ruth, whose face was radiant with smiles, "Good morning, Nanny Ruth!" I greeted her, sharing in her warmth. After exchanging warm pleasantries, Nanny Ruth said gently, "It seems Leonard brought you breakfast." Warmth glinting in her eyes as she stared at me.I shrugged. After Leonard's attitude last night and his coldness that I was used to, I wasn't about to be swayed by that single gesture, no matter how thoughtful it seemed. "Well, he did," I answered, my voice as flat as my expression. "But there's nothing more to it," I added calmly.Nanny Ruth's eyes softened, and her gaze turned inward as my words sank into her. Her smile, although still present, whispered a gentle concern."I heard the both of you arguing last night," She began softly,"But I want you to know that Leonard is a good kid and not as bad as you think," she said calmly, her words ec
ELSA ELKINS' POV,The curtains on the floor-to-ceiling window had been pulled back, allowing the ray to fall on my face that morning.I squinted and blocked the ray with my palm. The brightness of the day made my lips spread into smiles. I sat up, my eyes half-closed as I stretched my limbs, feeling a renewed sense of energy coursing through me.Suddenly, my eyes flung wide open, and I snapped off my grogginess. My smile varnished as memories of the night before, came flooding my mind. In that instant, I felt my blood begin to boil as a renewed sense of anger - like blood, coursed through my veins.My head whipped around the room, my eyes blazing with determination as I searched for Leonard,But instead of finding him, my gaze fell on series of closed doors, and my brows furrowed.Just as I was about to leap out of bed to search for Leonard, the entrance door swung open, and Leonard strolled in with a broad smile on his face."Good morning Mrs Kish!" He announced exuberantly, his vo
ELSA ELKINS' POV,At that moment, I couldn't believe my ears. I poked my cheek to make sure it wasn't a dream, and yes, it wasn't. It was real, Leonard was standing right inside my room, giving me an absurd instruction."Leonard, are you okay?" I questioned, my sharp voice dripping with disbelief. "Does it look like am not?" Leonard's response came immediately, and for the next five seconds, I tried to find the words to describe how unreasonable he sounded, but I couldn't find any, which left my mouth hanging open in total bewilderment.My blood boiled with a mix of anger and frustration, while I tapped my head repeatedly, as I tried to put a peg around my surging anger.But Leonard wasn't perturbed a bit, instead, he let out a snort of amusement, even though I was on the verge of breaking,Ten seconds passed, but he stood rooted on his spot, and at that moment, I knew I couldn't take it anymore."Get out!" I said, gesturing towards the door, my gaze fixed intently glinting with fury
ELSA ELKINS' POV,After a very busy day with the children at the Orphanage - reading stories, and teaching dancing, the only thing I longed for was a beautiful escape. No sooner had I sunk into the soft embrace of my bed, feeling the weight of exhaustion gradually lift from my shoulders, than the knock on the door shattered the peaceful silence. The sudden sound was a jarring interruption to the rest I desperately needed, causing my eyes to fly open in irritation.Reluctantly, I stood up and dragged myself towards the door. As I opened the door, the sight of Leonard standing right at my doorway with a stern face made my brows crest,He was the last person I had expected to see, and I couldn't stop myself from wondering what he wanted."What do you..." I started to say, but my words were cut off as he pushed the door wide open and strode into my room with an air of confidence that made my brows furrow tightly,For the next three seconds, I struggled to comprehend what had just happene
LEONARD KISH'S POV,My steps were heavy with determination as I strode back to my office with Sam. With the weight of the shareholders' decision weighing heavy on me, I felt a heightened determination coursing through my veins and propelling me forward.I refused to be deterred, and not even Mr. Ricardo's staunch resistance could shake me off my goal. As far as I was concerned, his resistance had only fueled my resolution.As soon as I settled onto my armchair, I turned to Sam, whose erect posture and intent gaze conveyed his readiness. "What's the latest with Mr. Ricardo?" I asked, my voice firm and steady, bearing the weight of the situation.I knew I had to decipher the reason behind Mr. Ricardo's sudden change since it was clear he had picked sides with Richard. "Nothing much Boss. Apart from that day, he visited Mr. Yuka; they hadn't met again, except at Mr. Yuka's birthday party, which you witnessed as well." He answered, his voice firm as he spoke in a matching intensity.Hi
MR RICARDO'S POV,Mr. Gustavo's lips parted for a fleeting second, then he burst into a loud chuckle, as he settled into the sofa beside me."Mr. Ricardo, you've never changed a bit." he said, his voice tinged with humor as he spoke with a broad smile on his face, while I waited patiently for us to begin with a small smile on my face."What can I do for you, Mr. Ricardo?" Mr. Gustavo finally asked, his tone tinged with genuine curiosity, which sparked a low, rumbling chuckle from me.Since I had not visited to beat around the bush, I went straight to my purpose. "What do you think about procuring furniture products from our company?" I asked, my smile never leaving my face.Although I wasn't certain he was the one Leonard had contacted, I threw my question at him, which was an attempt to confirm my suspicion.Just as I had suspected, Mr. Gustavo couldn't contain his excitement, "Oh! I've seen the designs, they are great, and suit the standard of my rooms," his response rang out with e
Mr. RICARDO'S POV,My smile varnished as soon as I stepped out of the hall. Although Leonard had tried his best to keep the buyer under wrap, despite my deliberate effort to get him to say who he was.Deep within me, I couldn't shake off the feeling that his meeting with Mr. Gustavo of Avo's World the other day, had something to do with it, and since he had deliberately shielded whoever it was from me, I was going to take my chances.My mind reeled with countless thoughts as I strode towards my car, and as soon as I slammed the door behind me, I said to Bobby, who was already seated in the driver's seat, "Contact Gustavo. I need to see him now." "Okay, Boss!" Bobby answered, swiping through his official phone like a robot.He put a call across to Mr. Gustavo and handed the phone over to me after Mr. Gustavo had received it. I had just placed the phone in my ears when Mr. Gustavo's voice boomed in, "Mr. Ricardo!" He exclaimed, his enthusiasm palpable,"What a pleasant surprise to rec
LEONARD KISH'S POV,Right in the board room were gathered members of the shareholders who had come for further deliberations regarding the ongoing project with J.K."Now that we've completed the initial stage of material procurement, we're gathered today to discuss the financing of the production phase itself," I stated, my tone firm, resolute, and unwavering, as I prepared to propel the project forward.Immediately, Sam stood up and distributed the document outlining the expenditures incurred during the procurement of materials and the proposed production costs,"Left on the fourth page of the document in your hands, you'll find a detailed estimate of the production costs and the required materials, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the project's scope and...""Leonard!" Mr. Ricardo's voice pierced through the thick silence, snapping me off my words.I turned sharply to my left, where he was seated calmly, to find the document on his desk and realized he hadn't opened it.My