Tasha POV (FIVE YEARS LATER) As I opened the door, the familiar sound of small footsteps echoed through the hallway. “Mum... Mummy!” he called, his little voice filled with excitement. I smiled as my son, Ethan, ran toward me. He was my joy, the reason I do everything. His energy, his laughter, it all made every challenge worth it. "I’ve missed you so much!" Ethan exclaimed, wrapping his tiny arms around my legs. “Oh really? I’ve missed you more, sweetheart,” I said, scooping him up into my arms and pressing a kiss to his forehead. "I’ve only been gone two days for a job in Paris, or should I say... a fashion contest?" I winked at him, and his eyes lit up. Just then, Aunt Linda stepped out from the corner of the kitchen, wiping her hands on a dish towel. "Look who’s just right on time for dinner,"
As the evening settled down, I was sitting on the couch beside Robbin. The cozy warmth of the home wrapped around us, and I couldn’t help but think how much my life had changed in these five years. The quiet moments like this, with Ethan laughing in the background and Aunt Linda bustling about, felt almost surreal. Robbin turned to me, his expression softening. "You’ve been quiet tonight. Everything okay?" I hesitated for a moment, then nodded. "Yeah, I’m just... thinking. About how different things are now, how far we’ve come." He nodded thoughtfully. "You've built a great life here, Tasha. You and Ethan are thriving. You should be proud of yourself." I gave him a small smile. "I couldn’t have done it without you, Robbin. You’ve been there every step of the way." Just then, Ethan came running back into the room, his new iPod in hand, grinning from ear t
As Robbin left, I took a deep breath. Now it was my turn to prepare for work, and I had less than three hours before my meeting with a client. Just as I was mentally listing all the tasks I had to complete, Aunt Linda's voice called from the kitchen. "Why aren't you ready for work?" she asked, her hands full with ingredients for breakfast. "Hurry now, go get yourself ready, and I'll make something quick to eat." "Thanks, Auntie," I replied, grateful as always. I rushed upstairs and quickly took my bath then changed into a pair of fitted trousers and a jacket I'd designed myself. When I returned to the dining room, Ethan was already at the table, looking as lively as ever despite just waking up. "Good morning, Mommy!" he chirped, his little British accent making the words sound so endearing. "Good morning, sweetheart," I replied, kissing the top of his head as I sat down. "Did you sleep well?" "Yeah," he nodded enthusiastically. "But... where's Uncle Robbin? He promised to
Tasha's POV I nodded, acknowledging his confidence in me. As I left Mr. Belvoir's office, my mind was already racing with plans and strategies for the upcoming fashion contest. Normally the New York fashion scene was notoriously competitive, and this event was crucial. It was more than just a chance to showcase our designs; it was an opportunity to cement Belvoir Couture's position as a leader in the industry. I made my way back to my office, where my assistant, Claire, was already waiting with a stack of papers and a look of concern. "Everything okay, Ms. Taylor?" she asked, handing me the documents. "Just a change of plans," I said, glancing through the papers. "Mr. Belvoir canceled my meeting with Vivienne Steele. We need to focus on the fashion contest in New York." Claire nodded, her fingers flying over her keyboard as she started organizing th
"Okay, umm..." I began, glancing at Ethan and Aunt Linda before looking back at Robbin. "So, the company is sending me to New York for a fashion contest and also a project. It's a really big opportunity. The project could take almost a year to complete." "Really?" Robbin asked, his eyes wide with surprise. "That's... that's huge, Tash. I'm so proud of you." Aunt Linda beamed. "This is a wonderful opportunity for you, love. You’ve worked so hard for this." "Well," Robbin said, a hint of a smile on his lips, "I guess we'll be heading in the same direction, but at different times." I looked at him, curious. "What do you mean?" He took a breath. "I’ve got some news of my own. I've been offered a chance to expand my business to New York as well. It's not immediate, but it’s in the works."
Daniel's POV I stared out of the window of my office, watching as the city moved around me, a blur of motion that I couldn't quite bring myself to focus on. The skyline of New York City was supposed to represent everything I had worked so hard to achieve—power, success, the pinnacle of my career. But as the days passed, it felt more like a prison, a constant reminder of what I'd lost. I rubbed my temples, trying to push away the memories that threatened to overwhelm me. Memories of her. Tasha. Even thinking her name sent a wave of pain through me. It had been five years, but the wound felt as fresh as if it had happened yesterday. I never thought I would miss someone this much. Suddenly, my phone buzzed, pulling me back to the present. I glanced at the screen Vanessa's name flashed up, along with her message. "My love, don't forget the designer shoes I told you about. They're a must-have!"
Daniel's POV I sighed, leaning back in my chair. Stanley and I used to hang out all the time, grabbing drinks, catching a game, or just shooting the breeze about life. But ever since the divorce with Tasha, he had been angry with me, not that he'd ever say it outright. It was in the way he looked at me, the way his voice got tight whenever her name came up. He blamed me for it, I knew. Hell, I blamed myself too, most days. But none of us were prepared for what happened after. After Tasha left, it was like she vanished off the face of the earth. Every line of contact we had for her was disabled. No phone number, no email, nothing. I had my people try to track her down, but she was always... not found, leaving no trace behind. Stanley and I even tried some old friends, mutual acquaintances, but no one knew. It was like she didn’t want to be found. And maybe that was for the best. She deserved her freedom, her space
Tasha's POV As the plane began its descent, I couldn't help but feel a mixture of excitement and nervousness. The flight attendant's voice came over the intercom, a calming and professional tone that broke through my thoughts. "Ladies and gentlemen, we are now beginning our descent into New York City. We hope you’ve had a pleasant flight with us today. Please make sure your seatbelts are fastened and your seats are in the upright position as we prepare for landing. The local time is approximately 3 PM, and the weather in New York is clear and pleasant. We hope you’ve enjoyed your flight and have a great time in the city." I looked out of the window as the skyline of New York began to come into view. The city's iconic landmarks and bustling streets were spread out below. Ethan, sitting beside me, looked out the window with wide eyes. “Mum, is that New York?” he asked, his exciteme
The ride was long, and Robbin’s mind raced with worry as he finally arrived at the hospital. The bright lights and faint scent of antiseptic did little to soothe his nerves. He made his way straight to the nurses’ station. “Tasha Belvoir?” he asked, his voice strained. “She’s in surgery right now along with Mr. Sterling,” one of the nurses responded, her tone calm and professional. She gestured down the hall. “You can wait in the family area through those doors.” Robbin nodded tightly and followed her directions. When he entered the waiting room, he immediately noticed the man sitting there, his posture composed but tense. Mr. Belvoir looked up as Robbin entered. “Robbin, right?” he asked, rising to his feet. Robbin paused, his eyes narrowing slightly. “Yeah.” Mr. Belvoir extended his hand, his voice steady but with a hint of warmth. “Tasha and Ethan have said much about you.” Robbin hesitated for only a moment before shaking the man’s hand firmly. “I hope it was all g
The door to Tasha’s room swung open, and a nurse stepped out. "We’re ready to transport her," she said, her voice professional yet gentle. Daniel and Robbin exchanged a brief glance, the tension between them unspoken but palpable. "I’ll follow in my car," Robbin said, stepping back. Daniel nodded, then followed the nurse inside. Tasha lay on the bed, her complexion pale but her chest rising and falling in steady rhythm. He leaned over, his voice soft but filled with conviction. "Tasha, you’re going to be okay. Just hold on for a little longer." The medical team moved efficiently, transferring Tasha to a stretcher. Daniel stayed close, his hand briefly brushing against hers as they secured her. Outside, the hospital staff guided the stretcher toward the waiting helicopter. The wind from the spinning blades whipped at Daniel’s suit, but his focus remained on Tasha. Robbin stood a few steps behind, his hands clenched into fists at his sides. As the stretcher was loaded in
They stood in silence for a while, the unspoken tension still thick between them. But when a nurse called Daniel back for the next phase of testing, Robbin stayed behind, leaning against the wall and staring at the floor. The final tests were completed, and Doctor Harris entered the room where Daniel and Robbin waited. His expression was serious but composed. “We’ve confirmed the results,” Doctor Harris said, setting a file down on the table. “Daniel is a perfect match. We can move forward with the transplant as soon as possible.” Robbin exhaled sharply, tension visibly leaving his shoulders for a moment. “Thank God.” He glanced at Daniel. “I’ll let Mr Belvoir know.” Daniel remained quiet, his face calm, though his mind raced. He looked to the doctor. “How soon can we proceed?” Doctor Harris adjusted his glasses. “We’ll need a bit
The doctor raised a brow, clearly taken aback by Daniel’s sudden resolve. "We appreciate your willingness, but this isn't a simple process, Mr...?" "Sterling. Daniel Sterling." he replied curtly, his gaze unwavering. "How soon can you run the tests?" The doctor nodded, flipping through the chart. "We’ll start with blood type compatibility and proceed with the necessary tests. It’ll take some time, but every second counts.” Before the doctor could leave, Robbin stepped forward. “Hold on,” he said, his voice calm but firm. “You should test me first. I’ve known Tasha for years, and if anyone’s going to be of help, it’ll be me.” Daniel’s jaw tightened as he turned to Robbin. "This isn’t about who’s known her longer. It’s about who can actually help her." Robbin stepped closer, his expression unwavering. "Exactly. And I’m sure I can." The doctor glanced between them, clearly caught in the tension. "We can test both of you. The more options we have, the better." “I’m not leavin
Ethan’s small sneakers squeaked against the hospital floor as Claire led him into the room. His wide, brown eyes darted to the bed where his mother lay, pale and hooked up to monitors. He hesitated for a moment, gripping Claire’s hand tightly. “Mom?” His voice was small, hesitant, and it broke Tasha’s heart. She managed a weak smile, her voice soft but steady. “Hey, baby. Come here.” Ethan didn’t need to be told twice. He bolted to her bedside, wrapping his small hands around hers. “You look tired. Are you okay?” Claire hovered near the doorway, her face a mixture of worry and relief. Robbin stood on the other side of the room, his arms folded tightly, watching everything. “I’m okay, sweetheart. I just need some rest,” Tasha assured him, brushing a hand over his cheek. She caught Claire’s eye, nodding her thanks for bringing Ethan. E
Daniel’s lips pressed into a thin line, but he didn’t argue. The tension in the room was palpable as the doctor waited for someone to take the lead. Due to the tension in the room, the doctor awkwardly stepped aside, sensing the weight of unspoken words. Robbin hesitated for a moment before looking at Tasha, his eyes filled with worry. He glanced at the doctor, then at Tasha again. "I'll go with the doctor to sort things out," he said softly, leaning down to brush a gentle kiss on her forehead. “Rest, Tash. I’ll take care of it.” Tasha nodded weakly, her eyes fluttering closed for a moment. Robbin followed the doctor out, his shoulders stiff with protective energy. As the door clicked shut behind them, Daniel moved closer to Tasha’s bedside. He stood there for a moment, watching her. Her face was pale, her breathing shallow but steady. The sight of her like thi
“Help!” Robbin shouted, dropping to his knees and cradling her limp form. “Someone call for help!” A nearby security guard rushed over, already reaching for his radio. “What’s going on here?” “She fainted,” Robbin said, his voice trembling as he brushed the hair from Tasha’s face. “She needs medical attention now!” The guard nodded, quickly calling for backup. A crowd started to form, whispers filling the air, but before the situation could escalate further, Daniel appeared, his sharp, commanding presence cutting through the chaos. “What the hell is going on?” Daniel demanded, his eyes narrowing as he saw Tasha unconscious in Robbin’s arms. “She collapsed,” Robbin replied, his voice taut with worry. “We need to get her to the hospital.” Daniel’s gaze darted to the growing crowd. “Not here,” he muttered, already stepping forward. “I’ll drive. Help me get her to the car.” Robbin hesitated, glancing at Daniel before nodding. Together, they carefully lifted Tasha, her arms draped
The morning sunlight streamed through the floor to ceiling windows of Tasha’s office, highlighting the faint bags under her eyes as she sifted through the mountain of paperwork in front of her. She took a deep breath, pressing her fingers to her temples, trying to ease the dull ache that had been building since she woke up. Claire, popped her head into the room, carrying a tray with a steaming cup of coffee and a small pastry. “Morning, boss. You look like you need this more than I do.” Tasha looked up, offering a tired smile. “You’re a lifesaver, Claire.” “Flattery gets you nowhere,” Claire teased, setting the tray on the desk. “But seriously, you’ve been here since six. Did you even eat breakfast?” Tasha waved her off. “I’m fine. There’s too much to do to worry about food right now and besides, I don't even have the appetite for food right now.” Claire folded her arms, unimpressed. “Tasha, skipping meals isn’t heroic; it’s stupid. At least eat this pastry while it’s still
"Clearly," Robbin replied, crossing his arms and narrowing his eyes. He studied her like he was trying to piece together a puzzle. "But I’m here now. So why don’t you start explaining?" Her eyes dropped to the floor, her voice barely above a whisper. "Daniel… Daniel is Ethan’s dad." For a long moment, silence filled the room. It felt heavy, oppressive. Tasha risked a glance at Robbin, expecting shock or outrage, but his face was unreadable. Finally, he exhaled deeply. "I know, Tash," he said quietly. Her head shot up, her eyes wide. "You knew?" Robbin nodded, his voice calm but tinged with hurt. "I figured it out a while ago. But what I don’t understand is why you kept this from me. You lied, Tasha. That day in the hospital, you told me you didn’t know who Ethan’s father was." Tasha winced at the memory, guilt flashing across her face. "I didn’t know how to tell you, Robbin. It wasn’t just about you it was about protecting Ethan. Protecting myself. After everything that