Brielle’s face turned pink by Gabe’s interjection. “This is girls talk. Keep your nose out of it!” She barked at him.I countered Brielle before she could even land. “Fall in love first before asking me that question, Brielle.”“Yes. I'm with Serenity on this one,” Gabe supported.“Jokes on both of you because I like someone!” Brielle hissed at both of them, and I could feel the excitement emanating from her dancing pupils.If truly Brielle was, I was happy for her friend; I thought. “Who is the lucky man?” I immediately asked.“Lucky? Who is the doomed man?!” Gabe roared back with laughter.Brielle’s countenance turned sour. “Can you just shut up and say you're jealous?”“Jealous of a finished man? Never!” Gabe was enjoying himself, but I couldn’t help but notice the serious glint in Brielle’s eyes. Something was up. “Ignore Gabe’s taunts, Brielle. He's just kidding. Tell me who the lucky man is?” I decided to be serious now since Brielle was being sensitive about the topic.Brielle’s
I arrived at Shawn’s office a little early. I met his secretary in tow but Shawn wasn't present yet. She made me sit at the reception and encouraged me to wait for him.“Mr. Donnelly will arrive in a few minutes. He's already on his way.” She said to me after dropping a call.She was a pretty girl with clear skin but had too much makeup on. I nodded at her with a polite smile and gently waited for Shawn’s arrival.About two minutes later, he arrived. Before his presence got nearer, one could already discern that a noble figure was approaching by how the workers busy with work had dumped them to stand and acknowledge the CEO’s presence.That was how strong the CEO’s influence was. How strong Shawn was which made it more exciting when it was time to bring him down. The fall of a mighty one is the best after all.“Good morning, Mr. Donnelly.” I began as I also stood to receive him. He was being escorted by a few security guards.He wasn't on dark sunshades today. He halted abruptly upon
The moment I stepped out, I exhaled deeply. My chest was tight. My stomach was convincing me that a knot was knitted in it too. I bent my head, eyes on the floor and panting.“You can do this, Calis—” I was about to encourage myself when I heard Shawn’s secretary ask…“Are you okay, Ma’am?” I comport myself and glanced up immediately. “Oh, I'm fine. Thank you.” I mustered a smile despite my unease. It was like Deja Vu. She had said this to me the first and last time I came here and exited Shawn’s office. She had seen me with this reaction previously. By the tightening of the lines on her forehead, I could tell she wasn't convinced. It meant she was smart. I’d have suspected something too. I needed to stop breaking down each time I came here. I could only hope she wouldn't say a thing to Shawn.I needed the restroom yet again. “Bye.” I enthusiastically waved at her and strode towards the restroom.I could feel her eyes on me as I disappeared. Poor girl —probably confused about what m
How Shawn managed to fly into my thoughts at every slight chance was what I needed to watch out for.Sighing and wearing my face mask, I waved at Cruz who was working with a bunch of newbies. They were all recommended by Cruz of course and well vouched for too.Cruz had a toothpick sticking out of his mouth as usual. “Heya! How is it going?” I called and they all abruptly stopped their work and enthusiastically waved back at me.“Hello, Ms. Fairchild!” Cruz greeted while the rest of his team did the same. “Don't come closer. The cement’s dust might get on you. We’re doing just fine here!” He supplied.I smiled at his thoughtfulness but I knew he wasn't going to see it considering the distance. “Alright, good job, everyone. Get to it!” I let out, walking away.The site was bustling with activity, and I scanned the area, my mind now divided between overseeing the project and Max's situation. I hated to hear it when a fellow woman was in any pain whatsoever and of course, men too.I just
After deliberating and concluding that I've been selfish keeping away from them, I decided to swallow up my fears. Most times, Dad would call, and I’d just watch the phone ring until the calls stopped coming in as frequently. It would take longer and longer with me picking up just twenty percent of the time until he got tired and then, here we were. Mum, on the other hand barely calls and it was understandable. Mum was more strict and rigid than Dad was.Granny Carys once mentioned how I inherited my toughness from her. What Granny Carys didn't know was that circumstances shaped me into what I have become. I was more of my father’s child than Mum’s.I inherited Dad’s soft traits but had to put on a facade of toughness because I have found solace in it. In my facade lies my coping and defense mechanism altogether. I’d rather be difficult and keep my circle small than be the penetrable Calista who got in a huge mess.“Mum.” I mused in a low tone as soon as the call got answered.I was
Jacob Extended the logbook to me. “Here’s the rundown of today's work. It seems God is on our side, Serenity. Everything seems to be running fine.” He said with a hopeful smile.Everything should run fine. We could not afford a mistake. “That’s good, Jacob. So, the foundation work is progressing smoothly, then?" I glanced over the logbook, scanning through the day's tasks and progress reports. The pounding of hammers and the low hum of machinery filled the air.I didn't know if Jacob clapped since my eyes were on the logbook but I heard a clapping sound.“Absolutely. The crew is right on schedule. We've had no hiccups so far. They're meticulous with the measurements and the concrete pouring is flawless," he assured.I nodded, relieved at the positive update. "Excellent. Please keep an eye on the steel reinforcements too. We cannot compromise on the structural integrity at any stage," I reminded him, flipping through the logbook to review the very well-detailed notes that Jacob had pre
Alice’s face turned red with disapproval. “How can you bully me for feeding you deliciousness, Snugglebug?!” She faked a cry and I loved it as her stomach danced with the motion.“Must be a good book.” I nodded at the novel in her hand since she was keenly engrossed in it earlier.Alice brought it closer to her face as if she wanted me to read it on it. “It's dark romance but it's my type. The female lead falls in love with the villain she hated.” A wave of goosebumps hit me. I pointed at the counter. "I got us a variety, so dig in whenever you're ready. I'll just freshen up a bit," I said, heading towards my room to escape the sudden uneasiness I felt.It was as if Alice was giving me a prophecy. However, I knew I’d rather choke on my blood than fall for Shawn again. He was as rotten as he was back then still yet.Entering my room, I closed the door behind me and took a deep breath. “No panic attacks this time, Calist.” I urged myself.I had not the least idea which was worse; pursui
SHAWN DONNELLY~~All through the meeting, his attention was divided. Sunny’s successful quest of locating Calista’s parents was weighing on him as he feared the aftermath.Would Calista’s parents be willing to talk to him?He might take another route. Sunny might just locate Calista somehow without involving her parents which left the inevitable question remaining.When he finds Calista, how does he face her?.The Chief Operating Officer (COO) whom Shawn was aware of his ambition to outmaneuver him in the corporation’s politics and steal his place but maintain a positive and affable demeanor called him out after noticing his faltering concentration.“Mr. Donnelly, I think you are too worn out today. Why? Is the project too hard for you to handle?” The sly bastard cornered him with his stupid unwavering smile.Shawn felt like sending him a punch in the face. He could fool the others with his good outward pretense but Shawn had seen him for who he really was.He knew Shawn knew his mot
~~Two years later~~I could finally say that I had almost everything I ever desired In life. Love, children of my own, peace of mind after everything that happened in the past...it was all a dream come true.After Ava, I had another child, a son who we named 'Donald', after Shawn's grandfather. We'd been living life together, exploring all the hurdles that came with being young parents. But yet, something still felt missing....On a warm spring morning, I ate some toast, skimming through my phone. Ava was in school, while Donald was sleeping soundly upstairs. Shawn had gone to work, leaving me, the unemployed housewife here.It's been two years and I still didn't know what career path to chase. I had been so comfortable all these while cause Shawn kept assuring me I didn't need to work, but I didn't want to work simply because I wanted to help with finances. I wanted to work for me. As I scrolled through my phone, an ad suddenly popped up, showing a video done by some kids to sprea
Seven months after our honeymoon, it was finally time. The due date was here.I was currently in Shawn's room, his maids surrounding me and trying to get me to breathe. I bit my lips, struggling to hold in a scream that was going to come out any minute now.Just then, Shawn burst into the room, rushing to my side in an instant. "Doctor Ryan is close now. Hang on babe." Shawn parted my hair slightly, looking into my eyes as if trying to get me to stay. To not slip away.I shook my head repeatedly, trying to pull myself together. But then, I felt a sharp pain inside me, and I couldn't hold it in anymore."Ahhhhh!" I screamed, holding– or rather, squeezing– Shawn's arm for support. A maid came to face me, holding my hands gently."Ma'am, look at me. Look at me." She tried desperately to get my attention. When I finally managed to look at her, she took in a deep breath and then breathed out. "Take in deep breaths. And exhale." I nodded vigorously, before following her words. Breathe in,
Warning: Mature content ahead!Shawn's eyes bulged, as he looked at my face and then at my belly, and finally at my face again. He covered his mouth, his eyes beaming with pure joy and excitement."You- you're pregnant?" He repeated, placing a palm on my belly. I nodded in reply, my face flushing from all the excitement. "It's almost around two months gone now. I went to do a test two days ago but wanted to surprise you." I admitted, my gaze diverting away from his eyes. I was afraid he would get mad at me for keeping it away, but his reaction completely took me off guard.He drew me in for a hug, making sounds that further showed his excitement. It was almost like he was squealing. "And surprised I am." He whispered into my ears. "But next time though, maybe keep me involved with the delivery, okay?"I ended up giggling, nodding in agreement. "It's a deal."We finally broke the hug, as I looked into Shawn's eyes again, seeing the love in them. He seemed like he'd gotten a few years
After Gabe was arrested, Shawn and I decided to give it another month before we had another wedding. With that time, we were able to make the right preparations, as well as apologize to all our friends and family about the drama at the last wedding. It was necessary after the... traumatizing things they witnessed thanks to Sage. Speaking of Sage, she was paid off by Shawn, who also placed a warrant on her to never be within a hundred meters radius of either me or him. ..The wedding venue was nowhere else than our hometown...the place where it all began. It would be held on a beach, and this time, we'd decided to invite all our old high school classmates.At a hotel, which was about a twenty-minute drive away from the beach, I was getting ready for my wedding, with help from Brielle, Alice, and my whole bridal train. I was anxious, fidgeting constantly as Alice helped me with my make-up."Snugglebug, could you just relax for one second?" Alice groaned In mock annoyance when I move
The next day, I and Shawn set out to find Gabe. Reaching his house, it was obvious that he'd escaped, probably after hearing Brielle's announcement on the radio.I low-key felt bad that our trio had lost a friend, but it was for the best. Gabe needed to be stopped and held accountable.With help from a hesitant Sage, we were eventually able to find Gabe at an airport, about to book a flight. But we'd brought some police officers along and were ready for him."Gabe!" I called his name when I spotted him trying to enter a queue. He turned to find me, and when our eyes eventually met, I felt my heart stop. This man, someone I'd seen as one of my only friends, had tried to ruin my life... all because he wanted to get me for himself.While I was lost in my thoughts, Shawn pointed at Gabe, recognizing his face from some pictures I showed him."That's him, officers." His tone seemed to carry a mix of amusement and irritation, giving off a chilly vibe. He definitely wanted to get back at Gab
After minutes of hugging, I and Shawn finally let go of each other. His warm smile met my gaze, but I could see that his eyes were a bit swollen, likely from crying.I felt guilty seeing that, knowing I'd been willing to abandon him forever because I didn't trust him. But yet, he was still just glad to see me."Where did you even run off to?" Shawn finally asked, squinting his eyebrows in worry. But before I could begin explaining, he spoke again. "You know what? Never mind that. What matters now is that you're okay and you're here, in my arms."I smiled wryly, gripping his shoulders, subconsciously caressing them. I noticed that they'd gotten leaner, and I instantly knew why."Hey, how come you haven't been eating for a whole week? All because I was ignoring your calls?" I couldn't help but frown at the thought that he had starved himself because I was missing. Shawn chuckled awkwardly but tried to shift the subject. "So, you admit to ignoring my calls?" He pulled me closer, sniffi
It has been exactly one week since the unexpected turn of events on what was supposed to be my wedding day. Everyone had been worried, but I wasn't in the mood to pick up any of their calls, only sending a few texts assuring Alice and my parents that I was okay. I felt awkward talking to Brielle now, especially after what Gabe tried to do a few days back. I didn't go to work, I rarely stepped outside except at night to get some basic needs... my daily routine had become a depressing bore of me spending long hours on the couch watching TV. My mind was slipping away, I could feel it. The feeling of hopelessness, the finding peace in solitude and isolation while also feeling like the world had turned its back on me. I felt alone.Today, I went through some of the stuff that I'd managed to smuggle out of Gran Gran's place. Most of it was stuff from my college days, but some was also stuff that reminded me of Shawn. Amongst those things, was a videotape, containing clips of special mo
SERENITY FAIRCHILD {CALISTA}~~Everything had been going just fine. I had prepared in the mansion for my big day, with help from Brielle and my other bridesmaids. I'd driven to the church compound, entered the church, and received a reception like a princess, and then stood in front of my love, Shawn, waiting to become his wife.Until she showed up...Hearing this 'Sage's' allegations, I wanted to defend Shawn, I wanted to cling desperately to the hope that it was all a lie. But this bitch came prepared. "Oh, honey, I have proof," Sage had said with a sly smile on her face, pulling out her phone.At that point, my heart had begun pounding in my chest. Nothing could beat video evidence. When the painful clip of my so-called fiancee and Sage having sex played on the church's LED screen, I couldn't take it anymore.I ran off the altar, ignoring Shawn's pleading voice and the pitiful gazes from the congregation on me. I felt my breath cease and my heart felt like I was suffocating. Bef
It all felt like a bad dream. Shawn watched as Sage got closer to the altar, a mocking look on her face. "So, this is Serenity Fairchild." She had her eyes on Serenity. "Or, should I say 'Calista Whitaker '?"Shawn clenched his fists, trying to quell the anger boiling inside him. He looked at Serenity, watching her eyebrows contort into a frown. She turned her gaze to him now, "Shawn, who's this?" Shawn felt his mouth quivering, as he struggled to come up with a perfect way to explain all this. However, Sage beat him to it."I must say, after spending that night with me, I was quite surprised that you didn't try to reach out." Sage feigned a dejected look. The woman deserved an Oscar.Shawn glanced to see Serenity's reaction and watched as her face turned pale. But then, she took in a deep breath, as she faced Sage with renewed confidence.“Excuse me, but who are you? And what do you mean you 'spent a night with Shawn'?” Her voice was oddly calm and calculative, but laced with an u