EL L E
My whole world came crashing down right in front of me, and I could do nothing to stop it.
'I want a divorce.' The word kept ringing in my ear.
No!
This can't be happening to me.
How did I go from being overjoyed about the news of my pregnancy, to being served with divorce?
All because I trusted someone who didn't have a single trace of a heart in her body.
I moved closer to Sebastian, my hand shaking as I tried to hold his. "Seb, please, let's talk this out. Whatever is going on, we can solve this together. Just the two of us." I pleaded with him. He was being deceived by the woman I called my best friend, the woman I confided in, and I wasn't going to back down without a fight.
I wasn't going to let my marriage go down the drain, because of Emory's jealousy and evil.
"No! Don't touch me! I've already wasted enough time with you. I'm done." He said, pushing me away from him. He looked at me like I disgusted him and that thought alone made my heart clench.
Why did all this have to happen now!? Why now that our life is finally falling into place? Why now that we are starting our own family? Was this Emory's plan all along?
She had never shown signs of being in love with my husband, but her insisting on me divorcing Sebastian because he was 'impotent' and unable to bear a child was quite suspicious.
How could I have been so dumb not to notice all of this in the past? She was never a good friend, and I didn't realize that until it was too late.
After realizing that trying to make me leave my husband for her wasn't working, she decided to do this? It was all making sense now.
She was evil and desperate.
"You're making a mistake, Sebastian. Don't let this woman ruin two years of what we've built with each other. You're letting another woman ruin our marriage. Please, you're not like this. You know me. You know the truth. You've seen me through the good times and bad. You've shared every part of yourself with me, don't let this woman ruin everything we've worked so hard for. Please, believe me." I begged, holding his hands in mine, but he ripped them out of my grasp.
"You think begging is going to get you anywhere? Well, guess what, it won't. The sooner you accept the fact that you've lost, the better for both of us. And you've lost." He stated.
"But Sebastian, the baby–"
"Get rid of it. That child isn't mine. It belongs to the other men you've been fucking behind my back. Do whatever you want with it."
"You don't mean that. I know you're only saying this because you're angry. But you'll change your mind. You will, Sebastian."
"You can't force me to take a child I have no connection to. It's not mine and will never be."
"I won't have an abortion. The baby is yours. You are the only man I've been with. You and I both know that. I don't know what's gotten into you, but–"
"You're a lying whore, who was sleeping with several other men while being married to me." He accused, his voice hard and filled with anger.
"How could you possibly believe that? I'm the woman you love. The woman you married. Why can't you just see the truth, Seb? Emory is trying to come between us, can't you see that? I don't know what she has against me, but–"
"She has nothing against you, Elle. But, you expect her to stand with you while you cheat on me? That's a good friend right there," he said foolishly. "She did what every good person would do. She warned me and told me the truth about you. That's the difference between her and you." He spat and Emory had a proud smile on her face.
"You think this is funny, Emory?" I snapped. "Do you think ruining people's lives is fun? What the fuck is wrong with you?"
"Oh, Elle, you think I did this because of my own free will? I had to do what needed to be done. If letting him know the truth will ruin our so-called 'friendship', then so be it. I told you how wrong this is, but you said Sebastian was too dumb to find out and was weak in bed. I did what was needed to be done." Emory said, dramatically.
How were these lies flowing so effortlessly out of her mouth?
"You did this to hurt me." I concluded. "You never liked me and maneuvered yourself into my life under the guise of being my friend when you were never one.
"No. I did it to protect the man I love. You are a liar and a cheat and you deserve what's coming to you."
"Protecting the man you love? Sebastian doesn't belong to you! He's my husband and he will always be. I don't care how many lies you feed him, he'll never leave me for you. You're nothing but a pathetic little whore!"
Sebastian laughed at the last word. "Oh, please, Elle. Can't you see that she has moved past that stage? You're the only woman who's pathetic enough to stay married to a man who can't even give you the pleasure you crave. I've never satisfied you and I can't understand why you stayed."
"Sebastian, you have to believe me. I never said any of that. They're all false. Emory is the one who's telling you lies. Can't you see her motive, Sebastian?"
"Her motive is to protect me from you. Now, can you just leave before things get uglier than this?"
"Are you kicking me out of my own home?" I asked, shocked.
"The house is in my name. You have no right to live here anymore. Get out. Don't make me call security." He threatened and I shook my head, not believing my ears.
"This is not you, Seb. What happened to the man who told me he would always protect me? Who vowed that he would love me forever? Where is that man, Seb? What did she do to him?"
"Stop living in your own fantasy. We're over. Finished. Done." He stated, his voice devoid of any emotion.
He held my wrist in a tight grip, and dragged me down the stairs.
"If I were you, I'd start looking for a new place. You're no longer welcome here. Get. Out." He growled, pushing me out of the house.
"Goodbye, Elle." He said, and shut the door right in my face.
EL L EI was standing in front of Sebastian's parent's house. The familiar mansion I'd been to a couple of times, suddenly feeling cold and unwelcoming.There was no way I was giving up on Sebastian and our marriage. I love him so much, and I wish he would just see through Emory's lies. He was being deceived by her, and painting me out to be the bad guy. She was vile and evil and had all this perfectly planned out all this time. She knew what she was doing, and now, she had won.No.I can't give up that easily.Not without a fight.Emory was going to pay for what she did, but first, I had to get Sebastian back."Elle! What are you doing here?" His mother, Mary asked, opening the door for me.I hugged her, the tears already starting to well up in my eyes. "Oh, no. Come on in, dear." She said, wrapping her arm around me as we walked inside.I sat down, wiping my face, and trying not to show my weakness."What happened, Elle? Did you and Sebastian have a fight?" She asked."He asked for
EL L EI could hear a loud beeping sound, and people whispering.My head was throbbing, and my whole body ached.What the hell happened?Slowly, I opened my eyes, wincing as the bright light attacked me.Where am I?I blinked repeatedly, trying to get accustomed to the light. I looked around to see I was in a hospital, then it all came crashing down on me. I had an accident. One I thought I wouldn't survive. I had seen my life flash through my eyes, yet I survived it. I saw a doctor and nurse, standing next to my bed, a smile on their faces. But, other than them, I saw no other familiar faces.Was I stupid for thinking they would care about me even after an accident?"Doc–" My voice was hoarse, and the words were stuck in my throat.The nurse poured water in a glass, and placed it on my lips. "Thank you." I whispered."It's so good to see you awake, Ms. Elle. You've made us worried." The doctor said, coming to stand beside me."How are you feeling?""A bit sore.""You were brought i
E L L EI stared at the luxurious oakwood door I had always detested as a child.The cab sped off as soon as I paid the, and I wished I could call him back because I was already regretting coming back to this place that haunted my childhood.I was empty handed, coming back the same way I had left. I felt a wave of embarrassment, realizing that my parents were right after all. They saw what I couldn't see about Sebastian and now, I was back at their place, proving that they were in fact, correct.I continued staring at the door, remembering the times when I cried to be outside, to have friends but was never give the chance to. It all changed the moment I met Sebastian at the very first event I was allowed to go to. I was only twenty then, and I felt awkward amongst hundred of people, but Sebastian made me feel safe.I fell in love with him and rebelled against my parents, just so I could be with him. I snuck out, stole money, and did a lot just so I could have a little piece of happin
E L L EFive years.It's been five years of being divorced and my life had changed drastically since then. I took over my family's business on the brink of bankruptcy five years ago, but with determination and drive, I was able to turn things around and not only save the business, but also make it the second most successful one in the entire world.I didn't even need to mention the first one, it was already quite obvious who it was. My ex-husband. Today, my company was valued at billions, and the satisfaction of proving everyone who doubted me wrong, was worth the blood, sweat, and tears.As the CEO of a multibillion-dollar company, there was hardly any free time. And the only thing that was on my mind, was work, and work alone.The media has speculated on many things throughout the years, but no one has gotten close enough to get a piece of information. No one."Ms. Marino, your meeting will begin in twenty minutes."I nodded at the young woman who had knocked on the door, then glan
E L L EThe dress I chose to wear was a deep shade of red. The material was silky, and the dress flowed down to my toes. A blood red bodycon dress with a slit that started from the upper thigh. The back was exposed and had two crisscrossed strings, holding it together.I had decided to go with my brother as my plus one, because no matter how much I tried to find a suitable date, none were able to impress me.The limousine came to a halt, and I could see the entrance and the flashes coming from the cameras.I was the first and only daughter of a billionaire. Everyone knew who I was, and I'd never felt so much pressure in my life.The door opened and I could already hear the shouts coming from the people outside."Ms. Marino, can you tell us who designed your dress? It's so beautiful.""What made you choose to come this year, Ms. Marino?""Why is your father not here with you?""Is there a special someone in your life right now?""Will you be making any announcements tonight?"Questions
E L L EThe car ride back to my apartment was a quiet one, I looked out the window my hand balled on my thigh.Varian had decide to drive me home, deciding that I wasn't in the perfect state to drive which I had initially rejected but he insisted and didn't take no for an answer.As soon as we arrived, I came down from the car and walked inside. I made my way towards the elevator and pressed the button. As soon as the door opened, I got in and went to my floor.When the elevator stopped, I came out and walked towards the door.Unlocking the door, I stepped in and removed my heels.I made my way towards the couch and dropped myself down. A few moments later, someone knocked on the door and I groaned. Varian came into the living room, "I wanted to know if you're okay?" My brother asked, his eyes filled with worry."I'm fine, V.""Do you want to talk about it?"I sighed, "There's nothing to talk about.""Elle, Sebastian and you have history, and what happened between you two is a mess. S
E L L EI packed in the last bit of clothes and zipped it up. My airport outfit was a pair of baggy jeans, a white tank top and a black leather jacket. I kept the accessories simple and wore a gold watch and a pair of diamond earrings.The flight was set to leave in an hour and a half.Mina knocked on the door, and I told her to come in.She walked inside the bedroom and placed my luggage on the floor."I'm pretty sure you have everything packed. We're just going for a week, ma'am.""Yes. But, I like to stay prepared. Besides, who knows what I'll find myself doing?"Mina laughed, "Let's hope it's nothing too serious. Shall we go, Ms. Marino?"I nodded, picked up my purse and the keys, and walked out of the apartment.Varian was going to take over the company for a week with the help of me dad, and somehow I was going to take this as my own mini holiday as I haven't gotten one in the past five years.London was going to be a great change, and hopefully, it will have something positive.
E L L EIt was raining, and the weather was cold but we had thankfully landed before the storm hit.My luggage had been placed in the trunk, and the driver was waiting for me.I walked down the steps of the plane and towards the car. The guards were quick to get an umbrella over mine and Mina's head as we headed to the black SUV.I spotted Sebastian walking to his car, an umbrella also on his head as he made his way inside."I've already sent the location of the hotel to the driver. Do you want to get settled and then grab something to eat or just order in and head to the hotel?""Let's go and check out the area. It's been a while since I've been in London.""It's raining though." She objected."Who cares? The weather will cool our heads."Mina nodded and sat beside the driver. I sat in the passenger seat, and we drove towards the hotel.The driver pulled over to the front and the doorman was quick to open the door. "Here's your room, Ms. Marino.""Thanks."Mina walked up the stairs an
E L L E"This is the worst birthday ever," I sighed, biting my lips.Giovanna shared a look with Avery and shook their head, she was probably tired of hearing me say that throughout the drive. They had insisted on me following them to the mall to pick a few dresses to uplift my mood. And I was wearing one of those dresses right now on the way to wherever they were taking me. They said it looked perfect on me and I shouldn't bother taking it off.It was weird, but I didn't argue with them. Today is my 28th birthday and the only person who wished me were Avery and Giovanna. No calls from my parents, or even Mikhail. Nobody. It made me worried and hurt. Did he forget? We spoke on the phone throughout the night, and he didn't remember it was my birthday the next day? I tried to call him earlier, but his phone was switched off.What the hell?The car stopped outside a hotel and we stepped out."I still don't get it," I said as we made our way into the lobby."You'll see," Giovanna smile
G I O V A N N A"Excuse me." She said to the others in the room as she looked at me in shock. We walked outside and she caught up with me, grabbing my arm."Hey, Gio. Calm down, will you?"I didn't answer, but turned to her and grabbed her hand, leading her to the parking lot where our cars were."Hey! Stop, will you? Let's talk about this." She called out, and when we were in front of my car, I released her and faced her."What's going on, Gio?""Do you know what time it is?" I gritted out. "What? It's 7:30 pm, Gio. What the fuck is wrong with you?""7:30, huh?" I gritted out, taking deep breaths to control my anger. "Get inside." I growled, opening my car door."What? No. I came with my car.""Avery, now." I barked."What's your problem?" She was annoyed and angry now."Get inside the fucking car. Now!"She flinched, glaring at me and opened the passenger's side, getting inside and slamming the door loudly. "Asshole." I heard her mutter under her breath in annoyance. I took deep
G I O V A N N AI shook my head. "No, I don't. We have a strong relationship, Elle. We're not like that.""But, it doesn't make sense.""Right, and I can't stop thinking that it's my fault. That maybe I did something wrong, and I just don't remember.""Or maybe she's just stressed and busy. You should talk to her about it, ask her.""I've tried, but she just brushes me off. She won't even call me by my nickname anymore. I think we need a break. Maybe moving in together after just a year of being together was a big mistake, and now we're paying for it."Do you think it was a mistake, Gio?""No. I don't regret it, Elle. I love her, and she's the best thing that has ever happened to me. I just wish things were different.""Maybe they will be. Don't give up. Fight for your love. She's probably just busy and not pissed at you. Stop thinking you're always the problem, G. You're a sweetheart.""Thank you." I sifhed, feeling like a weight has been lifted off my shoulder. It felt good venting
G I O V A N N AIt has been a week since the accident and things were still awkward between Avery and me. She was cold and distant. We were hardly talking.She'd come home late and leave early. I didn't even know what was going on with her.I'd tried to talk to her about it, but she'd brushed me off, saying that she was tired and not in the mood to discuss anything."I'm going to be home late tonight, I have a lot of brand shoots to catch up on. I'll grab a bite out with the guys." She informed me, not even bothering to look at me."And you're only informing me of this now?""Look, Giovanna. It's a busy month and the studio is crazy. I'm sorry, okay? Just deal with it.""Giovanna? So, we're now on first name basis, huh?" I was hurt. She hadn't called me Gio in a while."Yeah, I definitely do not have time for this. I'll see you later." She shook her head, and grabbed her bag. She walked out of the room without even saying goodbye.I was upset and frustrated. I didn't know what to do
G I O V A N N AI was placed on the couch. "Can you get a first aid kit? She's bleeding and shouldn't lose any more." Claire told Avery, tearing my shirt as gently as possible.Avery hesitated and I knew she didn't want Claire touching me."I got this. Go."Avery's footsteps got fainter and fainter, indicating she went to get the kit."You can leave. I'll take care of this."Claire shook her head and continued tending my wounds. "No, she wouldn't be able to handle you being alone with me. I'm a professional, remember? She sure wouldn't have a problem with you being treated by one, will she? If we have a misunderstanding, that's a whole different story."Claire was right. But, I didn't think my girlfriend would appreciate leaving the two of us alone. She's already wary of Claire."I know, but I don't want to cause trouble. We broke up years ago, Claire.""Yeah, and we've moved on. No harm, no foul.""Have you?" I shot back.Claire's hands froze and she looked up at me, before she could
G I O V A N N AI drove faster as the rain began to fall. My foot hovered above the accelerator, waiting for a straight piece of road. The mountain roads were winding, narrow, and slick, and the weather was only making things worse. I just wanted to get home to the warm embrace of my girlfriend. Work has been shitty the past few days and I was hoping that she'd be able to help me through it.Thunder roared, echoing off the surrounding mountains. Raindrops began pelting the windshield. I flicked on the headlights and the wipers.I'd always loved the rain, but the storm seemed a little much.A bright light flashed, followed by a loud CRACK. I jumped and jerked the steering wheel, sending the car skidding across the wet pavement. My tires squealed in protest and I could smell burning rubber. The back end of the car fishtailed from side to side, and I felt the rear left tire go off the edge of the road.The car tipped precariously, the back wheels losing traction on the loose dirt. The w
E L L EI nodded, "That's part of my divorce story that the media never knew about. They were fine with just hearing one side of the story, you know? I lost a pregnancy while trying to save my marriage, and I fell into depression for a year after the divorce. That was hands down the worst moments of my life. And it was difficult because I was alone. The only person who knew about it were my parents. And I didn't talk to anyone else.""You didn't deserve any of that. I couldn't imagine how anybody could treat you like that. You're perfect. Anyone should be lucky to have you. Not the other way around. Any man who doesn't see how perfect you are is a fool. If he couldn't handle you, then he shouldn't have handled your perfection."Tears brimmed my eyes, and Mikhail pulled me into his arms."You're special, Elle. Never let anyone make you feel like you're less. Don't ever settle for less. You're a queen, and a queen deserves a king, not a prince. You deserve a man who would fight for you.
E L L EIt's been two weeks since the party and officially one month since Mikhail and I started talking.But, it felt like I've known him all my life. He was slowly becoming a part of me, and it was hard to explain.We were getting close, and although we had a few disagreements, we managed to make it through and have a good time.In the past days, Mikhail was busy, so I didn't get to see him, which was okay, because it gave us the opportunity to miss each other, and look forward to seeing each other again. And he always called. No matter how busy he was.Someone was finally prioritizing me and it felt so new. So good. I wanted more of it.I was getting ready for another date with Mikhail, and Giovanna and Avery were present.They were out of the town for two weeks and only got back two weeks ago. They learnt about Mikhail and me, but didn't ask many questions, and I didn't tell them much, because I didn't want to jinx anything."This is nice." Giovanna was looking at the dress I was
E L L EI stood in the middle of my walk-in-closet, wearing a silk, short, red robe, trying to figure out what to wear."What do you think?" I asked, holding up a blue dress, and then another, showing Mina.She was here with me, helping me decide on a dress for the party. She had a few dresses herself and would try them on after helping me."Hmmm. Both are great. But, you have to keep in mind that your man is the Russian Billionaire, right? You can't be wearing something too simple, especially when he's going to be by your side the entire night. So, go for the red." She said and I sighed, knowing that she was right.I had a lot of beautiful dresses, but most were simple and casual.But, Mina and I were determined to change that.We wanted to make sure I dressed up and made myself look the part."Fine." I said, and placed the blue dress back into the closet."Try on the red one." She said and handed it to me.I walked into the bathroom and changed.The dress was a V neck, tight-fitting