It's been three days. Ezra started to question Emma's absence from the workplace. Is she still sick? He pondered. But how long does a person remain ill? He had been missing her terribly for those three days. She was on his mind even when he went to his friend's hotel to get his mind off of her. It didn’t work. It was challenging for him to stop thinking about Emma. Ezra immediately called Milan in. When she eventually entered his office, he asked her, "Have you heard from Miss Facer lately? It's been 3 days.” Milan shook her head. “No sir. I haven't heard from her since the last email she sent. Your sister even sent flowers over and still nothing.” “That is odd.” Ezra briefly diverted his attention before returning to Milan. “Then I need you to do something for me.” He said. He drew closer. His index fingers landed on his temple and he lowered both elbows to the table. "Can you discover where she is at this moment?" “Okay sir. I'll go ahead and do that now.” After quickly leaving
The front screen of the car allowed Emma to see what lay ahead. No one could see them from the outside because it was tinted. She tried to speak, but no words came out of her mouth. She sincerely believed that she could get out of this, but it appears that she will always be haunted. Her hands began to rub against one another, her heart began to pound as if it would drop from her chest, and a small amount of sweat started to appear on her forehead despite the air conditioner being on, making her acutely aware of how scared she actually is. Scared to hurt this man beside her. Ezra was no longer able to manage. They haven't said a word in the ten minutes since they got in the car. Before turning to face her, he took a few breaths in and then exhaled them. "If you decide to leave the company, I will completely understand." Emma gave him a quick glance. Even if she leaves, she won't be free from the guilt of lying to Ezra about Zoe and making him believe she is his child. "What good doe
On the sofa, Ezra sat down. Waiting. On his laps, he had his hands clasped. Was he nervous? He wasn't sure of his emotions, but he was certain that meeting Zoella was causing him to feel a certain way. “Would you like me to serve you some water? Or cola?” Emma asked. The instant he handed her the boxes of chocolate, she dropped them on the kitchen table. “Ah. I am okay, Miss Facer.” She was not given his full attention as he turned his head to one side of the room. Waiting for the girl to bolt from the room and sprint into his arms, but nothing of the sort happened. Emma caught on. Wherever he was looking, his eyes wouldn't budge. "Mr. Queen, are you all right?" She asked. Finally, Ezra turned to face her. He nodded. “I am fine. Where is she? Why isn’t she coming out?” He asked. On his way to her place, he had a thought. His mind was cluttered with ideas. When the door opened, he had anticipated her sprinting into his arms, but nothing of the sort occurred. “Doesn’t she want to me
The taxi dropped Emma off in front of a large house, and Emma kept checking her phone to make sure the address Sandra had sent her was accurate. She double-checked to make sure when she and Zoe got out of the car. “Emma. Bella lives in a big house.” “I am as surprised as you are. Remember. Be a good girl. Okay?” "Are you going to leave me behind? I don’t want you to go.” Zoe clung to her. Looking at Zoe, Emma's smile spread across her face. She knelt down to give her a closer look. Emma sighed and put her hands on the girl's shoulder. “Don’t you want me to go?” When she asked, Zoe nodded.“It won’t take long. Just stay for my sake. Pleaseeee.” How could she refuse? Just looking at Zoe’s face made her smile. How on earth could she refuse her? In fact, playdates were only going to be for a few hours. Instead of coming and going, she can wait that long. “Alright, Zo. I'll hang back and wait.” Emma got to her feet and extended a hand. “Come on.” The black gate opened on its own as the
Emma continued to focus on Zoe, who was lying on the bed, as she gently stroked her hair. Zoe had been sleeping ever since they arrived at the hospital in safety. When a doctor asked about her father, Emma wanted to call Ezra, but she didn't want to bother him to come. He is a celebrity, and the two of them had agreed to keep the information quiet until the ideal moment came. She grabbed Zoe’s hand as she slept soundly. "Your daughter is doing great, Miss Facer." She was approached by the doctor, who appeared to be in his early 30s. He is holding a file and has a smile on his face. "You need not worry about anything at all." “Really?” Emma raised her head at him. “Yes, Miss Facer. Zoella is just sleeping. She will be discharged tonight.” Emma sighed and then glanced at the doctor again. "How much do I have to pay toward the hospital bill? Should I make my payment at the counter?” While he was focusing on the files, the doctor laughed. “No, Miss Facer. It has already been resolve
Emma chose a few dresses from her closet. She checked which one to choose by looking in the mirror. It was Sunday morning, and Mrs. Queen would send a car to pick her up soon. She detested having to leave Zoe at home after the girl had been discharged the previous evening. Thanks to her argument with Phoebe, Emma couldn’t ask her friends for help. Speaking of Phoebe, where is she? Emma wondered. Zoe pointed and said, "I like that pink one." “You do?” Emma examined herself in the mirror to make sure. If she were to be frank, she doesn’t want to wear dresses that would be extra, but she has to. People would be present if Mrs. Queen had only invited her because she is the Queen's fashion company's favorite designer. She needs to sell herself. “No. I don’t think I like this one, Zoe.” She tossed the pink dress on the bed and reached for a cocktail dress with a more formal look that was only knee length. "This, I believe, is better." “It is black.” “I know. I love black.” Emma picked o
“Mr. Queen?” Ezra scoffed. “Miss Facer. You are here. Why are you here?” Emma glanced at Josie before returning to Ezra. She could see how furious he was, but was trying to keep it cool. She had informed him that she was booked this Sunday, but she hadn't mentioned that she would be visiting his family at their mansion. Ezra cocked his head in his mother’s direction. “Can you explain?” “I invited her over. It isn’t her fault.” As he entered the dining room, Ezra turned to look at Emma. "Why didn't you tell me you were coming here?" “I’m sorry, Mr. Queen. I didn't want to bother you, but Josie said it was an event and you won't be there. I thought you knew.” Ezra couldn’t be angry at her. She was not at fault. Again, his mother was attempting to play games. "When I got the call that you had broken your legs, I knew something wasn't right. Seriously? Even so, it makes no sense for you to be doing this. Why didn't you even ask me before inviting her?”“Mr. Queen, I…” “Not now, M
Emma smiled as she picked out the perfect outfit for the day. She needs to return to the office after missing it for a week looking put together. Last night, she had trouble falling asleep because of Ezra's words, which kept replaying in her head. Emma sat in front of her mirror, trying out her hairstyle for the day. She decided on her hairstyle as she pulled out her hair curler and began to curl her hair. She reached for her lipstick and applied a small amount to her lips. “Emma. I am ready.” With her uniform on, Zoe sprinted into the room. “Are you that excited?” Zoe nodded. “I will see Bella. I am happy.” Emma smiled as she rose to her feet. She reached for her scarf and sunglasses to swathe her face in protection. She has been the internet's most popular trend for days, but she doesn't want to draw attention at Zoe's school or to be associated with a child on the news. Even though Hidden Towel is a large city, the town she is presently residing in is a small one. A town where
Phoebe exclaimed, turning her head towards Emma, as she stood in front of the large mansion. "You never mentioned your friend was loaded." On the ride to Susan’s home, she’d been glaring at the houses they passed by. When Emma said she had a colleague, she never imagined it was a wealthy one. “Susan doesn’t like to brag.” “Emma. Why are we in Bella’s house?” Zoe asked. "You are going to have a play date with Bella. Are you not pumped?" Zoe shook her head. “No. I am not in Bella’s class anymore.” Emma rolled her eyes. She is a kid, so she should act like one. Why is having a special child so difficult? There is a difficult situation at hand, and Phoebe is unaware that Ezra wants her to begin living on his estate so Zoe can live comfortably. "You are a kid, Zoella, so you are going to have a playdate today. Whether you like it or not." “But…” Her eyes began to well up. "Emma must attend to some business. Come on.” She held her hand as they walked to the door. Emma pressed the door
Emma arrived home around 10:30 a.m., and the driver had dropped her off at Ezra's request. He could not bring them himself, which she understood, but that was not the issue. Things were becoming increasingly complicated, and Phoebe would be furious if she found out. Winter is aware of Zoe, so there is no doubt that the rest of the family will be as well. Her heart was racing as she stepped out of the car with Zoe. “Thank you.” She thanked the driver and watched him drive away before returning her attention to her building. She would be leaving this place and moving into Ezra's estate by tomorrow. Things will not get any easier from there. “Emma. I had fun today. I think Winter likes me.” Zoe stated, but there was no response. Emma, on the other hand, was deep in thought. Zoe called her name as she tucked her pants repeatedly. "Is there something wrong?" Emma inquired, looking down at her. “Why are you staring at the house? Is it because Daddy wants us to move to the new house?" E
Emma froze on her feet as she met Winter's widened eyes. Her plan had been to run into the bathroom and emerge when Winter was gone, but she was apprehended on her way out of the kitchen. “Winter.” She chuckled nervously. “How are you doing, love? Happy Sunday.” Winter looked her over and examined her. “What are you doing here? It appears from the way you are dressed that you spent the night here.” "No, I didn’t.” She flatly denied it. "You are dressed in Ezra's shirt." She gave a nod. "Yes, you slept here." With a sly grin, she approached Emma and muttered, “Don’t worry. I am rooting for both of you. Oh, it is as if my dream is coming true." Emma was watching her as she rejoiced. “Emma. You have my permission. Now, where is my phone?” She moved over to the couch and noticed it behind her bag. She held it out for Emma to see. “Found it. I will be seeing my brother now.” Emma remembered Zoe was upstairs in Ezra's room as Winter walked to the stairs. "I think it is best if I call h
His mouth tasted like cold, fresh juice. The kind that reminds you of summer air, the sea, and the sun. As Emma kissed him further, she didn’t want to let go. It was something she yearned for. It was something she had always desired. To be held by him. To be in his arms. Protected, safe, and loved. It reminded her of three years ago, when he carried her into the hotel room and made love to her. If only things had gone differently, she would have stayed and tried her luck. She would not have stolen from him and fled. What kind of woman would consider harming a man like Ezra Queen? She, of course. She had done so and continues to do so, and she felt guilty as he kissed her more. The thought made her break away from the kiss and she met his gaze. His ocean blue eyes locked on her, and Emma was certain he could see her soul as her heart beat faster.“Are you okay?” He asked. She wanted to scream, "Ezra, I am so sorry. Zoe isn’t yours. She is adopted. But I love you, and I went through a
"I'm so, so sorry." He turned his head away as soon as he stood up. Emma draped the shirt around her body. The shirt was larger and longer for her, and it completely covered her. “You weren’t at fault.” She looked at him. "It is all right; you can look at me now." Instead of turning to face her, Ezra walked to the door. “Goodnight, Emma.” He spoke, and as he was about to close the door, he paused due to the growling in her stomach. He sighed and moved his gaze to her. "I just realised I only served you tea, not dinner." “Yeah.” Her arms were encircling her. "Zoe has not eaten either. I should wake her up so she can eat something before going back to bed." “You are right. Come on.” She accompanied him out of the room. Ezra told her he would meet her in the kitchen and turned to walk in a different direction. Emma complied and went into the kitchen to wait. After a few minutes, she heard footsteps coming down the stairs. As he approached the kitchen, Zoe was in his arms, her hand ru
Emma stared out the window as the car drove through the streets on the way home. It was 6 p.m., and Zoe was fast asleep in her seat. Her thoughts have not been settled in one place since Ezra mentioned buying her a house on his property, and she has been silent the entire time. The rain suddenly started to pour, blurring the view out the car window. Emma sagged back in her chair and sighed. “Is everything okay?” He’d noticed she hadn’t said a word since they left the park. “Yes. Of course. Why wouldn’t it be?” She laughed a little nervously. "Because you have not said anything? If this is related to the house, Emma, please understand that I am only trying to look out for my daughter and want her to have the best.”Can he please stop saying that? Her stomach turned just by hearing that word. Zoe is not your daughter; she wanted to yell but instead she said, “I know. She is fortunate to have you as a father, and I know you want the best for her." “She will live a normal life and co
"She is no longer there! Zoe is gone!” “Emma, Calm down. Breathe.” Ezra said, both hands on her shoulders, trying to smooth her. Emma raised her gaze at him. “Don’t tell me to calm down. She is gone!” Her eyes were starting to well up with tears. She sniffled. “We will find her. I promise. First and foremost, we must contact the police." He reached for his phone, but she shook her head. “No.” “What?” “No. We can not call the cops." Ezra gave her a curious look. “Why not? This place is huge. She could be anywhere.” "What if she injures herself before they arrive? We have to find her. Quick, Ezra. Nothing should happen to my daughter because I will not be able to leave with myself!" Emma yelled as she jerked away from Ezra and ran towards the swing where Zoe was last seen. If Zoe is hurt, she will be taken to the hospital, where the truth will be revealed. If that happens, she will be doomed and imprisoned for the rest of her life. No. She cannot allow this to happen. She needs
Blinking several times, Emma continued to look into his eyes. The hardest part was getting her gaze away from him. She was salivating. She was daydreaming. And she wanted to stay there for a long time—until she heard Zoe speak. “Oopies. Emma. Are you okay?” Ezra balanced her and released her. "Are you all right?" He inquired, and she fell again, but she was caught in his arms for the second time. “Hey. Easy there,” he laughed, setting her on her feat again. Emma tucked her hair behind her ears, nervously laughing, hoping he would notice how much work she had put into her face and compliment her. He did not seem to notice. “So sorry about that. My legs become weak when I meet someone who takes my breathhhhhhhhh…” She dragged out the last words so long that she had to correct herself as soon as she came back to her senses. "I mean, I am getting older, and these heels are making it so difficult. It makes my bones brittle. The legs bones.” He looked down at her legs. "You do not have
Two days later...Ezra turned off the gas when he heard his phone ringing in the distance. It was placed on the dining room table. He removed his apron and walked over to the dining table to see who had called him early Saturday morning. “Mother?” That was clearly visible on his phone's screen. He picked up his phone and placed it in his ear. "Good morning, mother." "Good morning, son." She sounded depressed, but Ezra knew it was just another of her jokes. She either wants him to return home with a woman he loves so they can plan a wedding, or she wants to complain about something he is unaware of at the moment. "It is very early, mother. This is my day of rest." “It is 8 in the morning, boy. How are you doing today?” "Exactly the same as yesterday." He had talked to Emma before he left work about what time he should get to the house for the outing. Emma had told him about enrolling Zoe in her class and how surprised everyone was when Zoe was introduced. A young boy had yelled. “