OLIVIA’S POVThe decision to move in with Dawson had been made in a haste, but it felt like the safest option. Logan's sudden reappearance in my life had already left me shaken, but it was the unsettling frequency with which is seemed to appear near Lily's school, the Park, and even the corner store that tipped me over the edge. Dawson had offered immediately. "I have this space, Olivia. you and Lily don't need to handle this alone.” it had taken me a day to say yes. I had been hesitant, not wanting to disrupt lily’s life more than necessary, but I realized I couldn't risk her safety.Logan's intentions were unclear, but his persistence was unnerving, and I couldn't afford to be caught of guard.XXXThe cafe was quite except for the soft Hymn of conversation and the occasional clang of dishes. I had agreed to meet Logan here after he called me earlier in the week, insisting that we talk. reluctantly, I had said yes- not because I wanted to, but because I needed to. His sudden reapp
OLIVIA'S POVI woke up to the soft, familiar sound of the city. The distant hum of traffic, the muffled chatter of pedestrians below, and a faint beeping of my alarm clock, my constant reminder that another day was starting, and I had to face it, whether I was ready or not.I pushed the covers aside and rubbed the sleep from my eyes. The room. dimly lit by the early morning light, seeping in through the curtain. I turned my head to see Lily, my five Years daughter still asleep On the side of the bed, her delicate face was partially hidden under the blanket, her breathing shallow but steady, seeing her look this way always tugged at my heart, She looked So Peaceful, yet I knew the battle she fought daily.Quietly, I slipped Out of bed and Padded to the kitchenette. I started making breakfast, Oatmeal, the same every morning. As I stirred the pot. I couldn't help but d think of how different our lives had become since Lily's diagnosis. I glanced at the clock. I had to hurry if I was g
OLIVIA'S POVI stared out of the window of my cramped Office, watching raindrops race down the glass pane, my breath fogged up the window as I exhaled, a deep sigh escaping my lips. The weather seemed to match my mood-gloomy and unpredictable. I returned to my desk and flipped through the files for the third time this morning, trying to focus on the budget reports that were to due by noon.But it was no use; my thoughts kept drifting back to Lily. She is only five, Yet her Laugh Could light up the darkest room. Her latest treatments had been rough, and I hated being away from her even for a second. Still, work Was a necessary evil. We needed the money, especially with the mounting medical bills.Just as I managed to refocus, a sharp knock on the door broke my Concentration. I looked up to seemy boss - Dawson Pierce, The CEO & Pierce Enterprises. Standing in the doorway. His presence filled the small room instantly, his broad shoulders nearly brushing against the frame. I had been his
DAWSON'S POVI watched Olivia as I left her office, I could see the hesitation in her eyes, the proposal I made was not a simple one; It wasn't just business deal, not in the traditional sense. Marrying her wasn't about love or even companionship. It was about securing a future, for both of us, in our own ways.As the door click shut, I let out a breath I hadn't realized I was holding. What had I done? my board members will call me reckless, and maybe they where right. But this was the only option I had left. The merger was slipping away from me, and with it, everything I'd worked so hard to build. A few months ago, I wouldn't have considered this kind of deception, but the stake had never been higher.Sitting back in my chair, I stared at the contracts On my desk the words blurring together. I'd always been a man Who knew what he wanted, who took What he needed without hesitation. But Olivia Cadell was different, she was my assistant, Yes, but she was also so much more. She was stro
Olivia's POV The following morning. I walked into Dawson’s Office with my heart in my throat. I was greeted by the familiar polished Interor, an expanse of dark word, soft leather Chairs, and an impressive view of the city Skyline. It was a room that screamed power and authority, much like the man who occupied it. Dawson Sat behind his massive mahogany desk, his expression undreadable as he flipped through a stack of files. He looked up when I entered, his piercing blue eyes locking into mine. "Good morning. Ms Cadell,” he said, his voice calm and steady, betraying no emotion. "Good morning, Mr. Pierce," I replied, trying to keep my voice as neutral as possible, though my nerves were frayed. The reality of What I was about to do Weighed heavily on me. “please, have Seat," he gestured to the chair opposite his desk, As I sat down, he pushed a thick folder across the table towards me. "This is the Contract,” he simply stated. "It Outline the Terms and Condition of our agreement.
OLIVIA'S POV The day after the contract, I was still trying to wrap my head around everything when my phone buzzed, a message lighting up the screen. I opened it, and my heart Skipped a beat as I read the words: "Come to my office. We need the discuss something.” the message was from Dawson, and despite its formal tone, it made my stomach flutter, I quickly grabbed my things and headed to his office, my mind racing with questions. why did he want to see me? What was so Important? When I reached his office door; I paused for a moment, took a deep breath, and knocked. "Come in" Dawson's deep voice called from inside. I stepped in, finding him Sitting behind his sleek mahogany desk, his eyes locked on his Computer screen. As soon as he saw me, he leaned back in his chair, his gaze shifting to meet mine. "Sit down, Olivia," he said motioning to the chair across from him. I Sat, feeling the weight of his gaze as he watched me. “Mr. Chen, the Investor, is hosting a Charity gala
OLIVIA'S POV The morning after dinner felt heavier than it should have. I woke up with the memory of the kiss still fresh in my mind, my heart racing in a way I hadn't experienced in Years. Dawson had been nothing but considerate, but that kiss.... complicated things in ways I hadn't anticipated. I shook my head, trying to shake off the lingering feeling. This was a business arrangement, I had to keep my head straight. Lily's having her check-up today, the one that would determine when she could begin the blood Infusion. The doctor had been optimistic, but I could never shake the fear that sat heavy in my chest. What if something went wrong? "Mommy, Can I wear the pink dress today!" Lily's voice broke through my thoughts, her bright blue eyes Peering up at me from the foot of the bed. Even with everything going on, she still had a sparkle in her eyes. “Of course, Sweetheart," I said, brushing a stay curl away from her forehead. "You can wear whatever you like." She beamed,
Olivia's POVThe soft click of my heels against the pavement echoed in the quiet night as I stepped out of the car. The gala, Vanessa's sudden reappearance that still rattle me: Vanessa, was now wrapped up in Mr. Chen's business dealings. I had expected tension tonight, but not the palpable sense of rivary Vanessa seemed to carry with her like a Weapon,ateast thingsI'veheard fromthe officesincei started work at Pierce Enterprises. Shaking off the thought,I unlocked the door to my apartment, stepping inside to the comforting hum of the refrigerator and the faint lullaby coming from Lily's room. Emily had texted earlier that everything was fine and that Lily was resting, but a wave of guilt still washed over me. I hated missing evening's with my daughter, no matter how important my work feltThe apprtment was dim, save for the soft glow of the nightlight in the hallway. As I passed the couch, I noticed Emily, fast asleep under a blanket, a small smile tugged at my lips. she'd been my
OLIVIA’S POVThe decision to move in with Dawson had been made in a haste, but it felt like the safest option. Logan's sudden reappearance in my life had already left me shaken, but it was the unsettling frequency with which is seemed to appear near Lily's school, the Park, and even the corner store that tipped me over the edge. Dawson had offered immediately. "I have this space, Olivia. you and Lily don't need to handle this alone.” it had taken me a day to say yes. I had been hesitant, not wanting to disrupt lily’s life more than necessary, but I realized I couldn't risk her safety.Logan's intentions were unclear, but his persistence was unnerving, and I couldn't afford to be caught of guard.XXXThe cafe was quite except for the soft Hymn of conversation and the occasional clang of dishes. I had agreed to meet Logan here after he called me earlier in the week, insisting that we talk. reluctantly, I had said yes- not because I wanted to, but because I needed to. His sudden reapp
OLIVIA’S POVThe air between Dawson and me had been different since that day in the back. Logan's sudden reappearance hadn't just stirred of old memories; it had created and undercurrent of tension I couldn't ignore. I hadn't even seen Logan again since that fleeting moment, yet his presence lingered like an unwelcome shadow.Dawson, to his credit, hadn't say much about it. he had been patient, supportive even. but I could see the shift in his eyes, The way his jaw tightened when Lily brought up her "new friend from the park.” "he said he knew you, mommy” Lily said one evening as I talk her into bed. has more face was lit with the innocent curiosity that only a 5-year-old could muster. "why didn't you talk to him?” I froze, my hands smoothing the blanket over her. "what did he say, sweetheart?” "he just said you were his friend. he was nice, but. . . "she scrunched up her nose, her voice dropping to a whisper. "he looked kind of sad." Sad. the word hits me like a blue to the
Olivia's POVThe Weeknd was to be a breath of fresh air– a real chance for Dawson, Lily and I, to escape the constant pressure of work and the ever present under current of suspicious surrounding us. it was Dawson’s idea to take Lily to the park, and I had to admit, the thought of sometime outdoor sounded appealing.The morning was crisp, the air laced with faint scent of flowers blooming nearby. LIly had been bouncing with excitement all morning, barely able to wait to get to the playground. Dawson and I followed her as she darted ahead, her laughter ringing like music."she's going to wear herself out before we even get there,” Dawson said with a smile, his hand brushing mine as we walked. I glanced at him, feeling a warmth race in my chest. there was something so natural about the three of us being together like this– a momentary glimpse of what life could be like if we weren't constantly juggling complication and responsibilities. "I don't think lady knows the meaning of
OLIVIA’S POVAfter a whirlwind Of the past few days, days I finally had a chance to breathe. for the first time in what felt like forever, I woke up feeling somewhat rested. the early morning sun crypt in through the Curtains in my bedroom, casting a warm, golden glow. I stretched out on the bed, Savoring the rare quite before the day’s chaos began. Lily was already awake, her little feet pitter-pattering across the hardwood floors. I could hear her giggles from the next room, and just like that, is my phone it's way to my face. I got up and went to her, my heart lifting at the sight of her bright eyes and unruly bedhead. "mama” she squealed, have face lighting up as soon as she saw me. “ good morning, my little sunshine,” I replied, sweeping her up into my arms. her laughter filled the room, infectious and pure, and for a moment, I let myself forget about the investigation and everything weighing on me. I listen as she recounted a dream involving talking dogs and a magical
OLIVIA'S POV Every year the company's host a charity gala, and this year's one was here keeping everyone on the other hand who has gone back home to prepare for the gala. I, on the other hand, was still knee deep in my investigation. The document needed to be signed for final approval and I was yet to let Dawson sign it. I had this feeling deep in my gut like he was about to be in the middle of all this shit happening. But I had to leave and go if I was planning on going to the gala.This year's gala was held at one of the finest hotel in New Orleans. Dawson had to send his driver to take since he was to be there earlier to do some business deals. As I entered the enormous hall, which was designed with gleaming light and tables decorated with beautiful floral clothing, and the chandelier dangling like it was about to descend and smash on the floor, only a glance would convince one how important this gala was to the company. Tonight was an opportunity to relax and perhaps let down my
OLIVIA'S POV I woke up the following morning feeling depressed, still burdened by the notes and figures I had collected during the previous few days. I was relieved and even more convinced that I couldn't ignore this any longer after Emily's visit. There was a limit to how much I could learn without drawing suspicion if I continued my investigation alone. I needed help,someone with access and the knowledge to spot these anomalies as much as I had.And there was only one person I could trust with this. Dawson.The thought of bringing this to him left me nervous. We had a wonderful thing going, both personally and professionally, and I didn't want to upset the balance we'd achieved. But I also knew Dawson was extremely committed to the company, and if there was foul play, he'd want to be part in uncovering the truth. After getting ready and gathering all of my notes, I walked to the office, carrying the small file of paperwork near to me. Every glance down the hallway, every heel clic
OLIVIA'S POVThe next morning, My typically neat desk was covered in document, spreadsheets, and the Chen project’s financial reports, continuing from where I stopped last time.By light of early morning sun that streamed through all the windows up to the ceiling one would say that the room was bathed in a gentle light, however it did little to comfort my shoulders at that moment.I tapped my pen against the desk, furrowed in concentration,the soft knock on the door distracted me from my deep thoughts. I looked up, a bit surprised to see Emily with two cups of coffee and a gentle smile on her face."Hey, Liv," Emily said, shutting the door behind her.Her eyes were bright with warmth, a welcome sight in the midst of all the stress I had been under. "Thought you might need some caffeine."I managed a tired smile, a flicker of relief washing over me at the sight of my best friend. "Em, what are you doing here? I thought you were swamped with your own workload."Emily shrugged, crossing t
OLIVIA'S POV As I sat down in the corner of my office, the morning sunlight filtered through the tall windows, casting a soft glow over the polished desk. It was one of those rare mornings when everything felt calm, almost serene. For a brief moment, I allowed myself to enjoy the quiet, the kind that only arrived before the hustle and bustle of the day took over. Yet, as I began to review the financial report for the Chen project, the calmness started to evaporate.The Chen project was one of the company’s more significant undertakings, a long-term construction deal involving hundreds of thousands of dollars funnelled into various suppliers, contracts, and resource allocation. I took pride in knowing every detail of each project I worked on, especially one as high-profile as this. It was one of the qualities that Dawson valued in me. My attention to detail was impeccable, and my instinct for spotting issues was nearly unmatched.Yet, as I scanned the columns of numbers, a feeling tu
DAWSON'S POVEvery step I take is a decision I make and every choice I make is based on my inner resolve. But with Olivia, my inner resolve does not rule me anymore; they are emotions fueled by a different force. Upon stepping inside her apartment, there was one thing I could not ignore, the look of uncertainty on her face. Something had changed when I was away, but I could never tell what place the change occupied.The perspective that I carried in my mind while buying gifts for Olivia and Lily was that the barrier that appears to have been created since my departure would be less so after their use. Truth be told, I never considered such material acts as practical, rather, it was the only way I felt would assist in explaining to her that I was thinking about them both.The moment I presented the stuffed lion to Lily, I was filled with glee and an unmistakable smile washed over my face. There was something so naive and innocent about it. She had no grasp of the complicated world occu