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Twenty-Three
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2024-08-30 11:30:52We walked into his office, the tension between us almost suffocating. As soon as the door closed behind us, I turned to face him, ready to confront the truth.
“What’s happening between us, Jack?” I asked, my voice barely above a whisper. “What are we doing?” He didn’t answer right away, his gaze fixed on the floor. When he finally looked up, there was a sadness in his eyes that I hadn’t seen before. “I don’t know, Sophia,” he admitted, his voice raw. “I don’t know what this is, but it’s tearing me apart.” “Me too,” I whispered, feeling the tears welling up in my eyes. “I can’t keep pretending that everything’s okay, because it’s not. And now… now it’s affecting my mom, Jack. She thinks she’s losing you.” Jack winced, the pain in his expression cutting me to the core. “I never wanted to hurt her. Or you. But I can’t keep going on like this, Sophia. It’s driving me insane.” “Then what do we do?” I asked, my voice cracking. “Because
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The days following that painful conversation with Jack were a blur for me. I went through the motion of my daily life , but everything felt muted, the weight of Jack's decision hung heavy on me. Each day, i tried to push through hoping that time would dull the ache in my chest.At School, I kept my head down avoiding unnecessary interactions with my classmates. I sat in the back of the classroom, my head resting in my hand as I stared blankly at the notes in front of me. The words on the page blurred together, my mind far too distracted to focus on the lesson. I felt numb, like I was moving through the day in a fog, I wasn't sure how long i could keep up the facade.As the bell rang, signaling the end of class, I slowly began packing up my things, my movements mechanical. I didn’t notice Rachel approaching me until I heard her voice."Sophia? You okay?" Rachel’s tone was gentle, filled with concern.I glanced up, startled by the at
Last Updated : 2024-08-31One Careless Night Twenty-Five
Finally, Jack’s eyes flicked up, and he noticed me standing there. His expression shifted from relaxed to tense in an instant, and he pulled his arm away from my mother as if he’d been caught doing something wrong. My mother followed his gaze and turned to look at me, a warm smile on her face.“Hey, sweetheart,” she said, her voice bright. “How was school?”I forced a smile, trying to ignore the tightness in my chest. “It was fine,” I replied, my voice sounding hollow even to my own ears.Jack’s eyes lingered on me for a moment, his expression unreadable. I couldn’t tell if he felt guilty, sad, or something else entirely, but I couldn’t bear to look at him for too long. I quickly shifted my gaze to my mother, focusing on her instead.“I’m just going to head up to my room,” I said, already turning to leave before they could respond.“Oh, okay,” my mother said, a hint of concern in her voice. “If you need anything, just let us know.”“Thanks,”
Last Updated : 2024-09-01One Careless Night Twenty - Six
Rachel couldn’t shake the thoughts of Sophia’s confession from her mind. The more she mulled it over, the more determined she became to take action. She cared for Sophia, but she also couldn’t ignore the feelings she had been harboring for Alex. It wasn’t just about the secret anymore; it was about what she wanted too. That afternoon, Rachel made a decision. She grabbed her keys and headed over to Alex’s place, her heart pounding in her chest. She didn’t call ahead—this was something that needed to be done in person, without giving him the chance to brush her off. When she arrived at Alex’s door, she took a deep breath before knocking. The door opened a moment later, and Alex’s surprised face appeared. “Rachel?” he said, eyebrows raised. “What are you doing here?” “Hey, Alex,” she replied, offering him a tentative smile. “I hope you don’t mind me dropping by unannounced. I just… I needed to talk to you.” Alex frowned slightly, but he stepped aside to let her in. “Sure, come in.
Last Updated : 2024-09-04One Careless Night Twenty-Seven
Alex's eyes searched Rachel's face, his expression a mix of surprise, confusion, and desire. He seemed to be struggling with his emotions, unsure of how to process what was happening. Rachel's heart pounded as she waited for his response, her mind racing with possibilities. She could feel the tension between them building, the air thick with unspoken words.Finally, Alex spoke, his voice low and husky. "Rachel, I...I don't know what to say."Rachel's lips curled into a gentle smile, encouraging him to open up. "You don't have to say anything, Alex. Just kiss me again." Alex's eyes locked onto hers, and he leaned in, his lips brushing against hers in a soft, gentle kiss. Rachel's heart soared as she felt his hesitation melt away, replaced by a growing passion.As they deepened the kiss, Rachel knew she had made the right decision. She was ready to take a chance on Alex, to see where this newfound connection might lead. But as they pulled apart, gasping for air, Rachel's thoughts turned
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As we finished our coffee and got up to leave the café, I found myself glancing at my phone, half-expecting a message from Jack even though I knew it wouldn’t come. I shook my head, frustrated with myself for even thinking about him. I was here with Alex, a guy who genuinely cared about me, and yet my mind kept wandering back to the man I knew I couldn’t have.The rest of the day passed in a haze, with Alex doing his best to keep me engaged, but no matter how hard I tried, I couldn’t fully be present. Jack’s absence was like a shadow, following me everywhere I went, and I didn’t know how to make it disappear.By the time we headed back home, I was exhausted—not just physically, but emotionally. I had spent the entire day trying to forget about Jack, trying to focus on Alex, but in the end, I was left feeling more conflicted than ever. The feelings I had for Jack weren’t going away, no matter how much I tried to push them aside, and I didn’t know what to do.As A
Last Updated : 2024-09-16One Careless Night Thirty
The next day started like any other, though the tension between me and Jack hung in the air like a dark cloud. I had spent most of the morning trying to avoid him, retreating to my room and drowning myself in schoolwork, but as lunchtime rolled around, I knew I couldn’t hide forever. I had skipped breakfast, but i was hungry now and i needed to eat.As I made my way downstairs, I heard my mother and Jack in the kitchen, their voices light and carefree. I couldn’t help but eavesdrop, curiosity and dread mixing in my chest.“I think it’ll be good for us,” I heard Jack say, his tone soft but full of enthusiasm.“Definitely,” my mother replied. “We need this time together, just the two of us.”I paused just outside the kitchen door, my heart sinking. What were they talking about? Slowly, I stepped inside, pretending I hadn’t been listening.“Hey, honey!” my mother greeted me with a
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As I lay there, tears streaming down my face, I felt like I was drowning in my own emotions. I couldn't bear the thought of Jack and my mother together, couldn't stand the idea of him touching her, loving her. It was like a knife twisting in my heart, a constant reminder of what I could never have.I knew I had to get out of there, had to escape the toxic emotions that were suffocating me. I threw off the covers and stumbled out of my room, desperate for fresh air.As I walked out of the house, I felt a sense of freedom, of release. I didn't know where I was going, didn't care. I just needed to get away.I walked for hours, lost in my thoughts, trying to make sense of the chaos inside me. But the more I walked, the more confused I became.Eventually, I found myself at Alex's doorstep, unsure of how I got there or why I was there. But as he opened the door, concern etched on his face, I knew I needed him."Hey," he said softly, pulling me into a hug
Last Updated : 2024-09-18
Latest chapter
One Careless Night One Hundred And Eleven
The wedding reception was nothing short of magical.The grand ballroom sparkled under the glow of golden chandeliers, casting a warm, romantic ambiance. Tables were adorned with elegant floral centerpieces, soft candlelight flickering between the crystal glasses and silverware. The scent of fresh roses and vanilla from the wedding cake lingered in the air, blending with the laughter and music.Jack and I sat at the beautifully decorated sweetheart table, watching as our guests mingled, sipped champagne, and danced to the soft jazz melody filling the room. The energy was electric, a perfect blend of sophistication and celebration.“I still can’t believe we’re finally married,” I whispered to Jack, squeezing his hand.He turned to me, his blue eyes filled with warmth. “Believe it my darling wife.”A rush of happiness coursed through me. “I love the sound of that.”Jack chuckled. “Get used to it.”We had just finished our first dance as husband and wife, and everything felt like a dream.
One Careless Night One Hundred And Ten
The wedding hall was a vision of elegance—golden chandeliers casting a warm glow, ivory drapes flowing like soft clouds, and the scent of fresh roses and peonies filling the air. Guests were already seated, their murmurs blending with the soft melody of a string quartet playing in the background.I walked through the corridors, my wedding gown trailing behind me, the intricate lace shimmering under the warm lights. Every step I took felt heavier than the last, not because of hesitation, but because of the weight of the moment.This was it.The moment I had dreamed of since I was a little girl.The moment I had planned for months, agonizing over every detail—the flowers, the venue, the dress, the guest list. And yet, it wasn’t the aesthetics that made this moment important. It was the man waiting for me at the altar. Jack.My mother held my hand gently as we reached the bridal suite. “Are you okay?” she asked, her gaze searching mine.I swallowed, nodding. “I’m fine.”But my voice wave
One Careless Night One Hundred And Nine
The garden terrace was tucked away behind the grand wedding venue, a quiet, secluded spot where guests would later mingle during cocktail hour. The scent of jasmine and fresh roses lingered in the air, the soft rustling of leaves the only sound as I stepped onto the stone pathway.Alex was already there.Dressed in a sharp suit, his dark hair still styled the way I remembered, he turned at the sound of my footsteps. His gaze swept over me, and for a moment, there was something unreadable in his eyes.“You came,” he said.I folded my hands in front of me, keeping my voice steady. “What do you want, Alex?”He let out a slow breath. “I needed to see you. Before you marry him.”Anger flared in my chest. “You’ve had months to see me. You waited until my wedding day?”His jaw tightened. “I know. And maybe I don’t deserve this moment. But I had to try.”“Try what, exactly?”His eyes darkened. “To tell you I still love you.”Silence crashed between us.I clenched my fists. “You don’t get to s
One Careless Night One Hundred And Eight
The wedding was just two days away, and every second felt like a blur of last-minute preparations. The venue was set, the guests had confirmed their attendance, and my dress was finally hanging in my room, ready for the big day.Yet, despite all the excitement, an undercurrent of nerves buzzed beneath my skin.I sat on the edge of my bed, staring at my reflection in the mirror. My heart pounded against my ribs, a mix of anticipation and anxiety.Karen, always attuned to my moods, plopped down beside me. “Alright, spill. What’s going on in that overthinking brain of yours?”I hesitated before sighing. “It just feels surreal, you know? After everything that’s happened, I can’t believe I’m actually getting my happily ever after.”Karen softened, squeezing my hand. “You deserve this, Sophie. Jack loves you. And after all the hell Rachel put you through, this wedding is your fresh start.”I nodded, exhaling slowly. “I know. I just—I want it to go perfectly.”She grinned. “Trust me, it will
One Careless Night One Hundred And Seven
Rachel groaned as the officers restrained her, pressing her wounded shoulder against the cold concrete. Her eyes burned with hatred as she glared up at me. "This isn't over," she spat, her voice shaking. "You think you’ve won? You haven’t. I’ll—"Jack stepped forward, his face an unreadable mask of fury. "You're done, Rachel," he said coldly. "You kidnapped Sophie, held her hostage, and threatened her life. You’re not getting out of this."Rachel’s lips trembled, her breathing uneven. "Jack, I—""Save it," Jefferson cut in, his voice as sharp as a blade. He nodded toward the officers. "Get her out of here."The police yanked Rachel to her feet, dragging her toward the exit. As she passed me, she leaned in, her voice a venomous whisper. "Enjoy this while it lasts, Sophie. Because sooner or later, your perfect little world will come crashing down."I didn’t flinch. I simply held her gaze, unshaken. "Goodbye, Rachel."And with that, they took her away.---Outside the warehouse, the cold
One Careless Night One Hundred And Six
I forced myself to stay calm, pushing past the terror threatening to consume me. Rachel had lost everything—her pride, her so-called love, her future. That made her dangerous.But I refused to let her win.I flexed my wrists again, twisting my fingers in slow, careful movements against the rough rope. Every second counted. Every movement had to be precise.The man who had taunted me walked away, leaving me under the watch of another. He was younger, hesitant, his grip on his gun less confident than the others.A weakness.Rachel turned back to me, her arms crossed as she smirked. "You know, Sophie, I thought about just killing you and being done with it."A shiver ran down my spine, but I didn’t let my fear show."But then," Rachel continued, pacing in front of me, "I realized something. Killing you would be too easy. Too quick." She leaned down, her face inches from mine. "I want you to suffer first. I want you to know what it feels like to lose everything."I glared at her, refusing
One Careless Night One Hundred And Five
My knees nearly buckled beneath me. I stared at Rachel, my mind struggling to process the sight before me. The girl who once shared my secrets, my laughter, my life—now stood before me as my captor, her arms crossed with a cruel smirk playing on her lips.“Surprised?” she taunted, tilting her head slightly. “You shouldn’t be. You had to know I wasn’t going to just sit back and watch you get everything you ever wanted.”My mouth went dry. “Rachel…” My voice came out barely above a whisper, filled with disbelief and betrayal. “Why?”Her smirk widened. “Oh, Sophie… Do you really need me to spell it out for you?” She took a slow, deliberate step toward me. “Jack was supposed to be mine. Your mother promised me, but you stole him from me.”I recoiled as if she had struck me. “That’s not true! You two were never together! Jack never loved you!”Rachel’s face twisted with rage. “That’s what you tell yourself, isn’t it?” she sneered. “Well, a deal is a deal.” Her nostrils flared as she clench
One Careless Night One Hundred And Four
The SUV sped through the streets, the city lights blurring past the tinted windows. My heart pounded so hard it hurt, my breaths coming in sharp, uneven gasps as panic clawed at my chest.I was kidnapped, just like in my dream. But this was worse on all levels.First it wasn't a dream this time, and my captors were more mean looking. Lastly, I had no idea who could have sent them.The realization sent a fresh wave of terror through me. My mind raced with questions—Who were these men? Where were they taking me? Why me? But I knew one thing for sure: I couldn’t let them take me without a fight.I twisted in my seat, trying to lunge toward the door, but the grip on my arm tightened painfully.“Try anything, and I’ll put a bullet in you,” the man beside me warned, his voice low and menacing.I froze, my breath hitching. His gloved hand tightened around a sleek black pistol, the barrel glinting under the dim overhead light. My body stiffened in fear.I had to think. I had to find a way out
One Careless Night One Hundred And Three
The weeks following our engagement were nothing short of magical. My heart swelled with happiness as Jack and I began planning our future together. Every morning, I woke up feeling grateful—grateful for my daughter, for my mended relationship with my mother, and for the love I shared with Jack.With our wedding date set, the excitement in the air was almost tangible. There was so much to do—venue selection, guest lists, cake tastings, floral arrangements—but the part I had been looking forward to the most was wedding dress shopping.And today, it was finally happening.With my baby left in the care of her trusted nanny, I set out for a day of wedding dress shopping with my mother. It felt surreal, especially considering how strained our relationship had once been. But now, things were different. We were healing, and today felt like another step toward solidifying our bond.As we arrived at the upscale bridal boutique, my mother reached for my hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. “Are you
