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"Oh my God." She mumbled."Look, nana, it's not what you think. I swear, we're not irresponsible. Yes, we're having a baby, but, we're in love. This was not a mistake. It's not something I regret.""Oh, sweetheart. Of course, you're not. I'm not angry, honey. Don't even think that.""Then what? What is it? Please say something, Nana.""Eleanor, this is the best surprise of the day. I thought I was going to get a marriage announcement, but this is an even bigger shock." She smiled widely, pulling me into her arms."Nana." I whispered, relief filling my heart."Oh, sweetie. My granddaughter is pregnant. That's such a wonderful surprise. This is the greatest news. A little baby. Don't ever think I'm disappointed in you, Elle. Because you're the most careful girl I've ever known, and if you are pregnant, I know you love that man too much to risk it all for him. You wouldn't put your baby at risk for anything. You're my brave, independent girl. I've raised you to be a strong woman,
E L L E"You're right. He would definitely threaten you. I want him to see that the two of us are perfect for each other. We're in love, and he cannot say anything about that. We don't have to do things according to his wishes, because, we're doing things the right way. We're together and we're happy. He'll come around once he has gotten over the shock. It will be my surprise to them when we're back in the US, but for now, we're going to bask in our little happiness. Just the two of us.""You're absolutely right. But, I have to ask. Is that what you want? Do you want to get married?""I'm not in a rush, baby. We've only been dating for seven months, and having a baby was not planned. But, we're not doing anything wrong. It's not like I'm pregnant, and we're not together. We're in a serious relationship, and it's not a crime to have a baby out of wedlock. Yes, I want to be your wife, but not out of the pressure of society staunchly believing a woman should be married before she has a c
E L L EMikhail and I sat in the doctor's office, anxiously waiting for the test results. We had decided to come to the hospital two days ago, to run a test just to confirm the pregnancy.We were both very eager to find out the details.I was so happy, but Mikhail was ecstatic.He had been talking about the baby all night.I couldn't believe the news had made him so excited. I had just been scared for nothing.I knew Mikhail was a man who loved and wanted a family, but seeing the joy in his eyes was the best feeling.Avery and Giovanna were equally excited about the baby, literally already talking about names and colors for the nursery.It was a great feeling, seeing that the people who were closest to us were happy."Are you okay, sweetheart?" Mikhail asked, his hands massaging mine."I'm great. Are you okay?""Of course. I've never been better.""Me neither. I'm so excited.""Good." He pecked my lips.The door opened and the doctor walked in, a huge smile on her face. "Hello, Mr. an
S E B A S T I A N"Partially. It's not the only reason, but yeah. It's because of her. I can't move on. She was the one for me. The one I've always wanted, and no one has ever been able to compare. Even though I know, that's not fair, and she has moved on. I don't know how to move on, without her. Every time I close my eyes, I see her. All I want is her. And no one else.""With all you've said, I think the first thing you need to do is forgive yourself for making a mistake. You've lived with the consequences for so long, and you can't seem to get over it, but the only way you're going to feel better, is if you stop beating yourself up. You were a victim of circumstances, and you didn't have a choice. It wasn't your fault. And no matter how much you beat yourself up for it, it's not going to change the past. We are humans, and learn from our mistakes.""How do I do that? How do I forgive myself, and accept the fact that it wasn't my fault when it's really my fault? I didn't trust her.
S E B A S T I A NI stood in front of the mirror the next morning, staring at my reflection. I was putting on a black suit pants and a white shirt. Two buttons open.I looked good, but I was feeling so sick.So sick, just thinking about going to a therapist and talking about my problems, which were caused by my own hands, to another person.A fucking stranger.But, I had promised Mom that I would go.So, I had to.After all, she was right.I had nothing left. If this was the only option, I had to take it.Fuck.What the fuck would a therapist understand? How do they do these things? Do I just sit there and tell her what happened?How could this possibly help me?But, I was doing this for myself. For Elle. Because I loved her, and it was time for me to stop living in denial.She had moved on, and I had to do the same.Even though it was the last thing I wanted, and the only thing I feared.I was a wreck.She was the one who could save me, the only one.But, she wasn't going to.And t
S E B A S T I A NI sat in the mini art studio I had in my house, admiring my works. Her face, it was everywhere. Perfectly drawn and carved by me, for the past few months, I've had at least eight pictures of her drawn, painted, and carved.She was the only one I could draw, think or talk about, the only person who was constantly on my mind.I stared at my latest painting.It was a portrait of her.In my arms.Smiling.Happily.Like she used to, when she fell in love with me.I wanted her to look at me like she used to, to touch me, to let me touch her, and most importantly, I wanted her to smile at me the way she was smiling in my picture.This was the closest I felt to her, the closest I felt to her presence. She was all around me. The only way to see her.The only way to feel her.But it wasn't the same.I would give anything just to hear her voice one last time.One last chance.To see her.Touch her.Hold her.But she hated me.She didn't want anything to do with me. And it hurts
L A N AThe rage that has been building up in my body for the past few weeks was the highest I had ever felt it. The only time I had felt anything even close to this was the night Mikhail broke up with me.It was as if all my senses were heightened to their max, all attempts to get Mikhail back to myself was proving futile.Not only has Elle made it difficult for me, now they were out of the country to God knows where. I was livid, literally going berserk trying to find out which country they had led to, but there was literally no traces of them. No single trace. I had my resources try to track their every move, but the fact that I was running out of options was slowly driving me crazy. I didn't know how much longer I could go without Mikhail in my life.How much longer I had to watch him be with someone who isn't me."You know they aren't going to be there forever, right? They are going to come back and you can perfectly snatch Mikhail back. Why don't you just wait it out?" I heard
E L L EMy nerves were literally high up the roof when Mikhail walked into the room with a big smile on his face, oblivious to the news that would change everything."Hey, beautiful," he greeted me, kissing my lips."Hey, baby," I smiled nervously."What are you doing?" He said, walking into the room and removing his shoes."Uh, nothing much. Just relaxing.""Hmmm." He stared at me for a while, probably noticing the tension in my face."Are you okay?" He cupped my cheeks, looking into my eyes. I fidgeted, unable to keep eye contact for too long. My gaze fell on the floor."Is there something wrong?""N-no. Nothing's wrong. Everything is great.""You're acting strange. Come on, talk to me. You can tell me anything."I swallowed hard, staring into his eyes."Mikhail, I need to tell you something, and I'm scared. Please, hear me out." I said, my heart was racing a thousand miles an hour."Okay.""Please, promise me that you'll hear me out.""Of course, sweetheart." He held my hands, urgi
E L L EI've been experiencing fatigue for the past two days, feeling tired after doing literally nothing. I would sleep and still wake up tired.The fatigue is getting worse, and now, I had a headache that wouldn't go away. I couldn't keep anything down, my food always ended up coming out.I literally slept all day, and even then, it was restless. I didn't understand what was going on.Why was I feeling so drained?I felt like a truck had ran me over.I was missing out on all the fun I could have been having with Mikhail, Giovanna and Avery and instead, I spent the entire weekend sleeping.Mikhail, though, has been amazing.He didn't pressure me into doing anything. Instead, he was by my side, helping me through it. He helped me eat and even fed me soup, so I didn't have to strain myself.I've been living in doubt, not wanting to believe what my instincts were telling me, but I could no longer deny the obvious.My period was late.It's never late.Never.The fact that I've been feel