ELENA'S POVThe day was yet to start and It was already agonizing. It seemed like I should get used to this fast, for as long as I remained here. Looking around cautiously, I took the stairs back to the office. I climbed slowly as no one took this route except for the cleaners. It gave me enough time to process my thoughts clearly. I had barely gone far when my name was yelled harshly, breaking me out of my reverie. I was not in the least surprised to see Mr. Alvin behind me.His face was now a bit brighter, but the black lines across were still noticeable, at least to me who was guilty on every side.“What is the meaning of this, miss Elena? How did you go from this to this?”He demonstrated with his hands, putting them up and bringing it down afterwards. He had every right to be mad. I had failed them from the start.“I am sorry, Mr Alvin. Please help me extend my apologies to the rest of the board members. You all will be hugely compensated”I hated that I used his words, tryin
CHAPTER 1***Elena Carson****I was fully aware that going down that aisle is equivalent to walking into a dug grave where I will be spending the rest of my lifetime.I stood in front of the door of the holding room, staring blankly at my reflection. My once red, puffy eyes were now covered under the full make up, my pale face hidden under the guise of a makeover.'Smile already' my bridesmaid urged from behind me, obviously unmindful of how unhappy I felt 'Are you ready? It's almost time." My mother's words. I totally forgot she was here with me. She came closer and her palm covered my shoulders. She plastered a smile on her face. 'By the way, you look beautiful, today'I squeezed my eyes shut, trying to stop the tears from sliding down my cheeks. Didn't she notice or was she also feigning ignorance like my father?Muffled sound of soft music played with violins and piano made its way into the room. My throat hitched up, my eyes glistened as goosebumps travelled all over my body, m
*****Elena********* One Year Later ****I took a sip from the half-filled glass of alcohol in my other hand as I ran my empty fingers on my stomach several times.. A mirthless, audible laughter escaped my lips as a drop of tear slid down my face. ...'. you're pregnant ma'am. Sixteen weeks pregnant' the doctor's words continued to ring in my head.'Pregnant? I'm Pregnant for the mother fucking traitor? The son of a bitch that took advantage of me and caused me so much pain?!' I yelled into the air within the confines of my small studio apartment.I gulped down more alcohol. This was where my decision had brought me.. I had been sure that day when I ran out of the wedding hall, when I rejected the groom coldly. My heart still stung, my conscience still pricks me for letting him down that day. My father had told me how bad my silly decision affected relationships with both families and how he blamed himself for my own foolishness. I took a huge gulp of the scotch in my wine glass again,
Chapter 3***Elena****I didn't know how or what exactly to feel at that moment.. Relief or Fright.... The fact that he appears very fine after what happened was enough to make me feel relieved, at least, my conscience wouldn't prick me too often anymore. Then, the fright came. What if he's here for revenge because of what I did to him years ago.... what if he's here to make mockery.... Fury filled me and I sprang to my feet.'Why?!' 'Why what?' he shrugged calmly, crossing his right leg over his left.That made me crazier. Isn't he aware of how unconformable his presence is making me feel?'Why are you here, Lucas?' His strawberry lips released a guttural close-lipped chuckle."Is that a question of genuine curiosity or lack of belief?" He peered at me thorough his long lashes.I narrowed my eyes at him while I try to convince myself mentally that whatever the thoughts I have aren't true. I stood right there across him, tensed and awaiting an answer."Ah!" He drawled, nodding in u
****Elena****I unlocked the door of my new home, making mental choices of what would help my fucked up situation right now. Maybe a glass of wine would help, maybe I needed something stronger.I kicked off my shoes on my way to the kitchen, one of the shoes flew south and the other north. The next thing that went off my body was my bag. I walked into the kitchen, took a wine glass from the small rack suspended somewhere up on the kitchen wall. Then I headed to the refrigerator and pulled out a bottle of vodka."Oh!" I groaned, closing my eyes as I let myself drop onto the couch in a plunge. I rested my head back so that my face pointed heaven wards. 'I've had one hell of a nasty week!" I mumbled, pouring myself a half-glass full of cold Palmsway vodka.I took a sip and squeezed my eyes as the liquid travelled down my throat. The last words he said before leaving the office rang in my head the umpteenth time in few hours. I flared my eyes open, balanced the wine glass on the table
****Elena****My heart skipped a beat at the question. I stared into his eyes as they peered into mine. His ocean blue eyes were gentle, full of compassion. The sadness that underlined them weren't unnoticeable. His eyes searched mine, perhaps, trying to find a hint about how I really feel. I swallowed hard. How can he possibly understand how I almost hated myself for doing that to him, how my conscience wouldn't let me be, how I often think about him and pray that he be fine.. My chest constricted and I forcefully pushed out the next words off my mouth.'No.. I do not regret it. If we go back in time over again. I'd do the same thing, Lucas. I'd say no to marrying you. I'd just do it earlier.. before the wedding' I did my best to sound cold even though I felt torn inside..His jaw muscles clenched, slowly, he tore his gaze from mine, retreated to staring blankly into space. He said nothing in return. I was grateful that he didn't press more. I was already wallowing in enough self p
****Elena*****The moment I heard the car horn, I knew he was the one. I took one last glance at my reflection and left my apartment for it.. A black Tesla sat outside, a man in black holding out the door for me so I can hop in. I approached the vehicle, anxiety creeping in that instant. I jutted out my chin, trying to hide how nervous I felt, asides from the fact that this was the first time I'm seeing him after the talk at the cemetery, I was apprehensive about meeting his dad for the first time in two years. . I boarded the vehicle and settled in comfortably. To my astonishment, Lucas was no where to be seen. According to what he told me, he is supposed to be the one to come pick me up. I let it slide. Anyways, it's all for the best, I'd enjoy sometime alone before I get dominated by his cold aura again. The vehicle revved to life and I was getting driven to the location.I stared out the window, appreciating Boulevard. The street was lit up by street lamps, some teenage couples we
Chapter 7*Elena Carson*‘Mr. Hefner Alejandro?’ I whispered, my heart in my throat.He ignored my tiny whispers, transferred his irritated glare to his son who simultaneously wrapped a protective arm around me and draw me closer to his chest. My breath caught and I wished for the earth to just open up and swallow me. The attention we managed to escape earlier was now perfectly plastered on us.As bothered as I was, I doubted if he felt the same way. He met his father’s gaze with an unusual calmness, an unlikely smirk playing across his lips.‘Ohh.. My bad, father. I forgot to tell you about the recent development between us’ the sarcasm in his voice was very noticeable. My heart rammed in my chest. What’s with the utter unfriendliness‘Are you playing with me, Lucas? This is one of your crazy jokes. Isn’t it?’‘I wouldn’t dare to make such jokes…’.At this moment, it occurred to me. He was trying to get his father pissed off for some reason. One I’m not sure of.‘Meet me in my room ri
ELENA'S POVThe day was yet to start and It was already agonizing. It seemed like I should get used to this fast, for as long as I remained here. Looking around cautiously, I took the stairs back to the office. I climbed slowly as no one took this route except for the cleaners. It gave me enough time to process my thoughts clearly. I had barely gone far when my name was yelled harshly, breaking me out of my reverie. I was not in the least surprised to see Mr. Alvin behind me.His face was now a bit brighter, but the black lines across were still noticeable, at least to me who was guilty on every side.“What is the meaning of this, miss Elena? How did you go from this to this?”He demonstrated with his hands, putting them up and bringing it down afterwards. He had every right to be mad. I had failed them from the start.“I am sorry, Mr Alvin. Please help me extend my apologies to the rest of the board members. You all will be hugely compensated”I hated that I used his words, tryin
ELENA'S POVThe spacious corridor barely filled in my figure as I chased after Lucas in these torturous heels, cursing him every second the pain persisted. 'clack, clack, clack', until my little hands skimmed through the almost closed doors. I grinded my teeth, moving to the far end of the cubicle.I glanced down at my drenched suit, and wrinkled skirt with my pupils dilating in anger. Hurriedly reaching into my purse which was…empty!How! Stretching it a little wider, I dipped my head inside, hoping I was not seeing right. But it was still empty.Unable to hold it in any longer, I ferociously glared at the culprit behind me. Lucas.Of course, it was him. What kind of boss storms off like that? “Hey! You!”I bared my clenched teeth at him, still panting softly from the unplanned run.My annoyance grew when he did not even turn in acknowledgment. I marched up in front of him without thinking, “Have you now turned deaf, Mr. Lucas?”“How may I help you, miss Elena?”“You! Freaking lo
ELENA'S POVThe night slipped away before my eyes as I succumbed to the heaviness of my eyelids, muttering meaningless nothings.My ears twitched at the sound of chirping birds while I adapted a more comfortable position on the seemingly soft mattress.My nostrils picked up the scent of slightly burnt toast, which made me sniff harder, turning towards the direction it came from.I shot my eyes open greedily from the bed. The sunlight piercing from the chiffon curtains, caused my eyes to shut themselves instantly as they were not yet used to such brightness.I frowned sourly, holding my hands up to my head, shifting severally on the bed in discomfort. Everywhere ached throughly, especially my head. I instantly regretted the excess alcohol I had last night. Nevertheless, it was a new day and I could not afford another past regret stealing my day already.I opened my eyes again, staring blankly at the unfamiliar ceiling. By now, I quickly checked underneath the covers to see my clothe
~Los Angeles~****Ray****I watched her order shots of tequila till I lost count. A brunette who had high cheek bones and pretty eyes. A brunette I once held dear. She was definitely new to this club because I've never bumped into her in this particular club for the whole six months I've been visiting. I grabbed my glass of scotch, took a sip, leaning back in my seat, and watch as she pushed off the bar stool to head to the dance floor. Her hair draped over her shoulders and she gently spun around, placing her hands above her head while her hips sway to the music. Every move elegant, graceful and beautiful. I shifted in my chair, thinking of an appropriate way to talk to her, momentarily imagining her reaction when she finally sees me. Irritation, Anger, Betrayal? It'd be one of those. A man gets my attention when he sits down at the bar counter on the seat she just vacated. He casted furtive glares around quickly before pulling his phone out of his pocket and snapping a couple of pic
Chapter 7*Elena Carson*‘Mr. Hefner Alejandro?’ I whispered, my heart in my throat.He ignored my tiny whispers, transferred his irritated glare to his son who simultaneously wrapped a protective arm around me and draw me closer to his chest. My breath caught and I wished for the earth to just open up and swallow me. The attention we managed to escape earlier was now perfectly plastered on us.As bothered as I was, I doubted if he felt the same way. He met his father’s gaze with an unusual calmness, an unlikely smirk playing across his lips.‘Ohh.. My bad, father. I forgot to tell you about the recent development between us’ the sarcasm in his voice was very noticeable. My heart rammed in my chest. What’s with the utter unfriendliness‘Are you playing with me, Lucas? This is one of your crazy jokes. Isn’t it?’‘I wouldn’t dare to make such jokes…’.At this moment, it occurred to me. He was trying to get his father pissed off for some reason. One I’m not sure of.‘Meet me in my room ri
****Elena*****The moment I heard the car horn, I knew he was the one. I took one last glance at my reflection and left my apartment for it.. A black Tesla sat outside, a man in black holding out the door for me so I can hop in. I approached the vehicle, anxiety creeping in that instant. I jutted out my chin, trying to hide how nervous I felt, asides from the fact that this was the first time I'm seeing him after the talk at the cemetery, I was apprehensive about meeting his dad for the first time in two years. . I boarded the vehicle and settled in comfortably. To my astonishment, Lucas was no where to be seen. According to what he told me, he is supposed to be the one to come pick me up. I let it slide. Anyways, it's all for the best, I'd enjoy sometime alone before I get dominated by his cold aura again. The vehicle revved to life and I was getting driven to the location.I stared out the window, appreciating Boulevard. The street was lit up by street lamps, some teenage couples we
****Elena****My heart skipped a beat at the question. I stared into his eyes as they peered into mine. His ocean blue eyes were gentle, full of compassion. The sadness that underlined them weren't unnoticeable. His eyes searched mine, perhaps, trying to find a hint about how I really feel. I swallowed hard. How can he possibly understand how I almost hated myself for doing that to him, how my conscience wouldn't let me be, how I often think about him and pray that he be fine.. My chest constricted and I forcefully pushed out the next words off my mouth.'No.. I do not regret it. If we go back in time over again. I'd do the same thing, Lucas. I'd say no to marrying you. I'd just do it earlier.. before the wedding' I did my best to sound cold even though I felt torn inside..His jaw muscles clenched, slowly, he tore his gaze from mine, retreated to staring blankly into space. He said nothing in return. I was grateful that he didn't press more. I was already wallowing in enough self p
****Elena****I unlocked the door of my new home, making mental choices of what would help my fucked up situation right now. Maybe a glass of wine would help, maybe I needed something stronger.I kicked off my shoes on my way to the kitchen, one of the shoes flew south and the other north. The next thing that went off my body was my bag. I walked into the kitchen, took a wine glass from the small rack suspended somewhere up on the kitchen wall. Then I headed to the refrigerator and pulled out a bottle of vodka."Oh!" I groaned, closing my eyes as I let myself drop onto the couch in a plunge. I rested my head back so that my face pointed heaven wards. 'I've had one hell of a nasty week!" I mumbled, pouring myself a half-glass full of cold Palmsway vodka.I took a sip and squeezed my eyes as the liquid travelled down my throat. The last words he said before leaving the office rang in my head the umpteenth time in few hours. I flared my eyes open, balanced the wine glass on the table
Chapter 3***Elena****I didn't know how or what exactly to feel at that moment.. Relief or Fright.... The fact that he appears very fine after what happened was enough to make me feel relieved, at least, my conscience wouldn't prick me too often anymore. Then, the fright came. What if he's here for revenge because of what I did to him years ago.... what if he's here to make mockery.... Fury filled me and I sprang to my feet.'Why?!' 'Why what?' he shrugged calmly, crossing his right leg over his left.That made me crazier. Isn't he aware of how unconformable his presence is making me feel?'Why are you here, Lucas?' His strawberry lips released a guttural close-lipped chuckle."Is that a question of genuine curiosity or lack of belief?" He peered at me thorough his long lashes.I narrowed my eyes at him while I try to convince myself mentally that whatever the thoughts I have aren't true. I stood right there across him, tensed and awaiting an answer."Ah!" He drawled, nodding in u