The park is bathed in a warm golden hue. I feel the lush grass beneath my fingertips while I sit on a red and white checkered blanket. I watch Liam and Lukas as they play frisbee. Liam throws and Lukas makes a pose as he catches it. I grin at Lukas’ antics while Liam places his hands on his hips and shakes his head. After a while, they return. Lukas slumps on the blanket and takes a sandwich from the food container. Liam sits beside me and kisses my cheeks. “You okay?” he asks. I smile at him and shift my attention to Lukas, who is now on his second sandwich. “Hey, slow down, Lukas,” I scold. He grins at me and still continues. I feel when Liam places his hand over mine. I shift my attention to him before he asks, “What do you think of setting our marriage again, Cassie?” Lukas chokes on his food, and I turn to him. “What did I tell you?” I give him a cup of water. He coughs a few more times before drinking. “I’m out of here. See you at home,” he says, getting his bag and almost
“Are you ready?” Alinn asks, wide-eyed. We are in front of the baby’s room because Alinn mentioned that she and Lukas are finally done with all the final touches on the nursery. “Because you don’t have any preference for the design of the room, Alinn and I decided on one,” Lukas interjects. “Don’t complain!” “Shut up, Lukas!” Alinn scolds. Lukas is beside her, clutching the doorknob towards the nursery that they both designed. As Lukas pushes the door open, my eyes widen in delight. The room is painted lavender, with little white clouds and stars scattered across the ceiling. The crib is adorned with fluffy blankets and stuffed animals, while a matching rocking chair sits in the corner next to a bookshelf that’s already filled with children’s books. “It’s perfect,” I whisper. Alinn grins. “We’re glad you like it. We wanted to make sure it was ready for Cassandra’s arrival.” I walk over to the crib and run my fingers along the soft sheets. There is also a stunning mural painted o
The dim light of the nursery casts a warm glow over the room as I rock Cassandra in my arms. The sun is setting and soon both Liam and Lukas will arrive. I watch the sleeping baby in my arms. She is so precious and I know she owns my heart. Someone knocks and I turn my attention to the door. Liam. I smile at him, another person who owns my heart as well. “I’m ready for a sleepless night,” he says, moving closer to me. He is referring to the fact that last night, I force him to sleep because he has work today, leaving me to care for Cassandra. I chuckle. “I don’t hold that against you, Liam. Besides, I never imagined that I could feel this exhausted, yet so incredibly happy at the same time.” “Neither did I,” he says as he presses a kiss on my temple. I watch Cassandra’s tiny fingers curl around my thumb. “Is she asleep?” Lukas asks, peeking into the room. Careful not to disturb his little sister, he tiptoes towards us. “Welcome home to you too, Lukas,” I say. He grins. “I gue
“Look what I found!” Lukas exclaims the instant he walks through the door. He’s carrying a plushie that is bigger than Andy. “I hope you notice the size of that?” I ask. Lukas grins. “She can play with it once she’s a bit older. For the meantime...” He places the plushie on a chair and appraises it. “... she can admire it from her crib.” “I guess you really plan to spoil her.” “Yes. I didn’t know it’s still not obvious.” I roll my eyes at him and turn my attention back to the documents that I am checking out for the businesses and Champion Music. “I can’t believe you can resist this cuteness,” Lukas says as he carries Andy into his arms. “If I were you, I would let my arms fall off if that means I can carry her all day.” “You’re exaggerating,” I respond. “By the way, why did you hire a nanny? I can take care of her alone.” Before I can answer, the door opens and Liam comes in, ready for the awarding ceremony. “What do you think?” he asks. I look him over. He is very handsome
We spent the rest of the ride back home in silence while holding each other’s hand. My heart is pounding as I steal glances from Liam. The car stops in front of our huge house and we get out. We discover Lukas sleeping in the nursery while Andy is sleeping soundly in her crib. The nanny says her goodbye and Liam and I walk to our room, still hand in hand. I go to the shower first and then Liam goes in. After organizing my things, I slip into the covers at the same time that he goes out. His hair is still wet and I grin at the way he looks. He walks directly into our bed, immediately pulling me into his embrace. I giggle when he nuzzles his face in the crook of my neck. “Cassie?” “What is it?” I ask. “It’s been awhile.” “What is?” I ask, grinning, despite knowing what he means. He presses a gentle kiss on my forehead and whispers. “Let me take care of you.” I thought he’s about to kiss me when he orders, “Turn around.” I did as instructed and relaxed. His hands touch my should
“You vixen,” he remarks, wiping my mouth. I lie down on the bed, and he climbs on top of me. He presses his hips against mine, his breathing still heavy. “I think I will love this weekend,” he comments, smiling down at me. “As do I,” I respond, opening my arms towards him. He kisses my cheeks, and I gasp as he suddenly enters, followed by thrusting in and out of me. My body trembles with every movement, and I can feel myself getting closer to release again. He looks deep into my eyes. “Come for me, love,” he says, his voice heavy with desire. Soon I am screaming in pleasure as I come undone beneath him. He smiles, knowing that he’s the one that gives me this much pleasure. He continues to thrust until we both come crashing over the edge. After a few more minutes, my orgasm dies down. He lies beside me and smiles with a satisfied expression. “You drive me crazy, Cassie,” he whispers, pulling me into his embrace. “And I guess I am doing the same for you.” “You mention we can’t be
My fingers fly across the keyboard as I prepare a new marketing strategy for Liam’s family business, my eyes narrowing in concentration. It is just a draft — something that I will need to present to him and Nico. To have more time to care for Andy, all the consulting I’m doing for them is done in the nursery. Not to mention the recruitment for Champion Music. “Mommy,” Andy calls, scampering around the room while pulling the big plushie with her. It’s been a year, and it looks old, but she still loves it. “Beary has a wound.” She shows the tear on the plushie’s hand and adds, “Fix, fix.” “Okay, sweetheart,” I reply, pausing to give her attention. “What happened to this?” She purses her lips. “I’m not being careful, so he got wounded.” I sigh. “I will fix him later. So, will you put him in that chair for the meantime?” She grins. “Thanks, Mommy!” As Andy places Beary back in his assigned seat, I turn my attention back to my work. After a while, the door swings open and Liam comes
After some passionate moments in the bathroom, we are finally able to let each other go. We step into the dining room, only to meet an unannounced visitor. “Nicco!” I exclaim. “It’s too late already.” “Well, there is some emergency,” he says, his eyes darting back and forth between me and Liam. “What is this emergency?” Liam asks. “Not ‘what’, but ‘who’,” he corrects. His eyes go to the receiving area. “Scarlet’s in there.” Liam tenses and frowns. Sensing his distress, I say, “Go ahead, Liam. I am fine.” “This emergency,” he starts, meeting my eyes. “This Scarlet is my ex-wife, Cassie. So, I think you should meet her.” “Oh,” I mutter, not knowing what to say next. “Please?” he prods on. “Okay, I will come with you,” I say. Liam and I walk towards the receiving room, with Nicco following us. The instant the door opens, Liam asks, “What are you doing here, Scarlet?” When the woman named Scarlet faces us, I freeze by the door. This ex-wife is like an ethereal goddess on earth.
********* A FEW YEARS LATER *********** I run my hand over my bulging stomach, savoring the warmth of the afternoon sun as it filters through the living room window. I am close now. The doctor says that any day this week I will give birth to a boy. Nearby, Lukas and Alinn teach Andy how to play a new board game, while Liam hovers close by and places snacks and drinks on the table. “Are you okay? Anything you need?” Liam asks. I grin at him. “I need my husband to sit beside me and hold my hand.” Liam’s face softens, and he nods, quickly making his way over to the couch beside me. As he sits down, he takes my hand in his, his fingers lacing through mine. I lean into him, my head resting on his shoulder. He wraps an arm around me, holding me close and kissing my forehead. This time, I am not afraid. Because now, I feel safe and loved, surrounded by the people who mean the most to me. We will move forward, because we know now, that we are unstoppable together. ********* ANOTHER FEW
I chop vegetables for dinner as I note the instructions Lukas jotted down for our dinner. Liam enters the room, wraps his arms around my waist, and playfully nuzzles my neck. “Guess who?” he whispers, his breath tickling my skin. “Could it be... my handsome husband?” I tease. I turn in his embrace, meeting his lips with a sweet kiss before returning to my task. “Any updates on our lovebirds?” Liam asks, referring to Lukas and Alinn. “Actually, they went on a date yesterday evening,” I respond. “I think things are getting more serious between them.” “Good for them,” Liam says sincerely. He leans against the counter, watching me. “Remember how nervous we were when we first started dating?” “Of course,” I laugh. “We are so nervous that we shared a kiss during that same day and even made love when the evening came.” He laughs. “But look at us now. I want to ravish you every time I lay my eyes on you.” I caress his cheeks. “And we’ll do that once we are done with food and shower,” I
It’s already late in the afternoon when the four of us, Liam, Lukas, Andy and me, start the stroll through the bustling market in Morocco. All the vibrant colors, the tantalizing scents and cacophony of voices are overwhelming. Andy seems to enjoy everything, and she has become very curious. Once, she even asks what the two locals are doing. I explain to her that they are haggling over prices. And every time she sees some exotic wares, she will clap her hands in delight. Something that never fails to put a grin on Lukas’ face. “Mom! Stunning!” Andy exclaims as she points to a beautifully embroidered scarf. Liam chuckles. “It is. You can take what you like, Andy.” Andy squeals and pulls Lukas with her into the shop. On the other hand, Liam takes one scarf and drapes the fabric around my neck. He gazes at my face and whispers, “It really is stunning.” I blush, especially when last night was very hot—too passionate, in fact, that I wasn’t able to get up until it was close to lunch.
The lush garden surrounds an elegant white gazebo. There are cascading floral arrangements that are draped gracefully over the lattices. Not to mention the sweet scent in the warm air. And beneath the canopy of flowers, I stand with Liam. We are gazing into each other’s eyes as our family and friends gather around us. Everyone is dressed at their finest, chattering excitedly amongst themselves while sipping champagne and nibbling on mouth-watering hors d’oeuvres. My mother is wiping away a tear as she looks at us. My father is beaming proudly at her side. With all our relatives around us, this is a far cry from when we had our first wedding. “Ready?” Liam asks beside me, his voice full of tender reassurance. I nod, my eyes shining with happiness and love. “Friends and family,” the officiant begins. “We are gathered here today to celebrate the love and commitment of Liam and Cassie. Today, they choose to renew their vows, solidifying their bond and reaffirming their devotion to on
Suddenly, a waiter approaches us and clears his throat. Liam and I look at him. There is an awkward smile on his face. “Apologies for disturbing you, ma’am, sir, but your food is ready. Should I... ahm, send it here? Or should I pack it up or something?” he asks. Given the time to breathe, I reach for my wineglass and take a slow, deliberate sip. As the rich liquid warms my throat, I resolve to face my emotions head-on. “We are going to continue our date night here,” Liam answers while staring hard at me. The waiter gestures for the others to come closer. They set down plates and bowls in front of the table while Liam fixes himself and sits across me. When the waiters leave, Liam reaches for my hand again. “You see, Cassie. You might have forgotten, but this is the anniversary of when we met at that police station. The first time you kissed me.” “Oh.” “You also think that you were not pretty enough back then. That you are undeserving of love.” I purse my lips again. I glance at
I arrive at the elegant restaurant alone, my heart heavy with the weight of agreeing to Scarlet’s request. Even the soft glow of the candlelight that dances against the polished silverware and crystal glasses on the tables do not improve my mood. The atmosphere is intimate, and it could have been a perfect night with Liam. I take a deep breath, inhaling the rich aroma of seared scallops and garlic butter that fill the air. “Reservation for two under Mr. Chapman?” I ask the hostess who has come to assist me. “Of course,” the hostess replies, leading me to a secluded table by the window. “Your server will be with you shortly.” “Thank you,” I murmur, taking my seat while noting the crisp, white linen napkin and the glasses on the table. I glance around the room. Couples are sharing tender smiles and stealing kisses from each other. The sight only deepens the ache in my chest, reminding me of my earlier decision. “Good evening, ma’am,” a friendly server greets me as he approaches the
I stand in front of a full-length mirror, my reflection framed by the delicate curve of the gilded edges. I watch the way the smooth silk of my midnight blue dress clings to my body, accentuating my curves and cascading until my knees. Then I adjust the thin straps over my shoulders. The anticipation of my romantic date with Liam is making my heart race. There is a knock on the door and I say, “Come in,” my voice sounding happier. The soft click of heels makes my hand pause on the fabric of my dress. I turn my attention to the guest and see Scarlet looking me up and down. I purse my lips at her beauty. She is definitely a sight in yet another red dress–a contrast to her creamy skin. Scarlet’s eyes take in every inch of me, appraising me like a predator sizing up its prey. “Hmmm,” she mutters. “You are starting to look the part of being Liam Chapman’s wife.” “I am his wife,” I tell her. I am just not sure until when. “It’s a pity, really,” she says, her voice dripping with sacchar
Last night, I was dreaming about Lukas and Liam’s laughter again and I woke up with a mix of love and fear. I sigh. This is just fine. I know that my decision to distance myself is for the best. “Momma, Lukas?” Andy asks, still stuttering. “Tomorrow, dear, okay? Your brother will come here to play with you.” She nods and takes hold of a doll. Lukas has gone to the beach with Scarlet. As for Liam, he decided to finish his work in the office. “For today, it’s just you and me...” I whisper. “And probably, in the future too.” I settle in the chair and my gaze lingers on the family photos adorning the walls. Most of it are pictures of Lukas and Andy, but there is also Alinn, Liam, and me. I really do miss doing activities with them. When my eyes fill with tears, I blink them away. I chose this. I should not be sad about this. I have to be stronger than this. More unfeeling than this. I can walk away, just like how I escaped from all the men and drama around me before. They said it bef
“Are you okay, love?” Liam asks. He is on top of me, still panting from the pleasure we just shared. I smile at him, attempting to hide the turmoil raging within me–anxiety that I only feel every time we stop drowning in our pleasure. “I am fine,” I lie. Liam’s piercing eyes search mine, but instead of pressing further, he brushes a stray strand of my hair behind my ear. “I am not such a skilled conversationalist, but please know that I will listen to you, any time you want to talk about something.” I beam at him and I hook my arms around his neck. “I always see you as a great communicator, though.” “Maybe I communicate my love for you in bed? Where you will feel it the most?” he asks, playful now. “I think we should wear our clothes and pause from communicating in bed. I need to check up on Andy.” He presses a kiss on my neck. “Lukas and the nanny are here. Stay a little more in my arms.” I giggle, but then I push him away from me. Sitting up and retrieving my clothes, my min