CASINOElena's POV The casino was alive, lights flashing and music blaring so loud it was nearly impossible to think. I pushed my way through the crowd alongside my cousin, who loved gambling here. We found a quieter spot to sit and watch, his focus already on the tables where men were staking serious money. I sipped my drink, content to let him enjoy his games. Then, a familiar voice cut through the noise, casual yet taunting. “Hey man, seems like you’ve won a lot here,” the voice said. “Let me give you the shock of your life—mind if I join you?” I glanced up, and there was Lucas, strolling in with Aurora holding hands. The sight of the two of them together didn’t surprise me, but the smug looks on their faces did. They looked like they were here to flaunt something, or someone. Guess they are married now.Lucas’s gaze landed on me, and a smirk twisted his lips. “Well, well, Elena! What a surprise. I’m amazed someone like you could afford a place like this.” Aurora’s mocking laug
Jason's POVAs the elevator doors slid shut, I couldn't help but smile at Elena. She’d agreed to dinner, and I wanted to make it something special. "I didn’t know you’d be on board so soon. How’s everything going?" she asked with that charming smile of hers, the kind that made it hard to look away."So far, so good. And now, even better. I wanted to thank you for the job," I replied, trying to keep my tone casual. "Maybe I could treat you to dinner tonight?"Elena chuckled softly. "Oh, I barely did anything—you earned that for yourself.""Still, I wouldn’t have had the opportunity without your help. C'mon, I know a great place. I think you’ll love it." I kept my voice light, but I hoped she’d sense how much I meant it.She hesitated, then giggled. "O…okay, but just so we’re clear, this is just returning the favor. I owe you nothing."I laughed as we reached the lobby, stepping out of the elevator. "See you after work," I said, waving, and she waved back, a hint of warmth in her eyes.
Aurora's POVAs Lucas stormed into the sitting room, the anger was practically radiating off him. His jaw was clenched, and he barely glanced at me before dropping onto the sofa. The silence between us was tense, and I could feel his irritation simmering, aimed at someone else who is, Elena.“Lucas, are you still angry at… Elena?” I asked softly, trying to ease into the conversation, my voice gentle.His gaze flickered over to me, but he shook his head. “Get some rest, Aurora. We’ll talk tomorrow.” His words were short, clipped, and I could tell he was trying to hold back.I walked a little closer, watching him carefully. “I get it—you only just divorced her, and now you’ve already seen her with two different men. It’s hard, isn’t it?” I paused, adding softly, “But, Lucas… Elena never truly loved you.”Lucas looked at me, brow furrowing, taken aback. “What are you saying, Aurora?”I held his gaze, steeling myself. “She only cared about your money,” I said, my hand drifting to his thig
Elena's POVI parked my car in the hospital lot, I fixed my transparent eye glasses as I stepped out. This wasn't where I expected to be today, but something in Lucas’s voice—desperation mixed with guilt—had pushed me here. I had to uncover Aurora's dirty secret.I walked briskly into the hospital lobby, forcing myself to remain calm and focused.I walked to one of the nurse in the outpatient department “Hi, where is Miss Aurora’s room?” I asked politely.The nurse glanced at her computer. “Room 100.”“Thank you,” I nodded and headed down the hallway, keeping my steps purposeful. When I reached Room 100, I took a deep breath before pushing the door open.Inside, Lucas was sitting at Aurora's bedside, his hand wrapped around hers. As usual! His shoulders were hunched, his face filled with happiness as he saw me. Dr. Young was standing beside him, noting some things down on Aurora's hospital folder with a professionally detached expression.“Elena! You’re here,” Lucas exclaimed, standin
Elena's POVI parked my car and made my way to the office, hoping for a smooth day. But as soon as I opened the door, there was Samantha, already sitting at my desk with a knowing grin. She was the only one who ever managed to get here before me, and she seemed particularly amused this morning.“Morning, sunshine,” Samantha greeted, a playful glint in her eyes.“Good morning to you too,” I replied, smiling as I noticed a familiar coffee cup on my desk. A little note was stuck to the side: *“Have an amazing day, from Jason.”* I felt warmth rise in my cheeks. Samantha, of course, noticed.“Oh? Jason again? He leaves you coffee every single morning. Think it’s time to call him your ‘little boyfriend,’ don’t you?” She chuckled, folding her arms with a smug look.“Oh, stop. It’s not like that. He leaves you coffee sometimes, too!” I said, brushing it off, even though a small smile crept onto my face.“Maybe, but where’s my *sweet little note?*” Samantha teased, tapping the cup. “The man is
Elena's POVThe day had finally arrived, and I could feel my pulse racing as I took in the sight around me. The entire mansion felt transformed, with every corner draped in elegance. Strings of warm lights and grand chandeliers gave the room a soft, almost dreamlike glow, and the fragrance of fresh roses mingled with the faint notes of jazz floating through the air.I couldn’t deny it—it was beautiful. Perfect, even. But there was a heaviness inside me, a feeling I couldn’t shake, as if something unexpected was waiting just around the corner.Samantha was at my side, as usual, fussing over my hair and adding the finishing touches to my makeup."Look at you!" she beamed, stepping back to admire her work. "You’re stunning, Elena. I swear, your fiancé is going to be head over heels the moment he sees you." She gave me a playful nudge, and I had to laugh despite my nervousness."Well," she continued with a smirk, "I just hope you’re not missing your little boyfriend—Jason, isn’t it? He’s
Elena’s POVMy heart pounded as I tore through the hall, my ball gown dragging behind me, sweeping the floor. I could hear the soft chime of my car keys jingling in my hand, spurring me forward as I clutched my gown, lifting it to clear the way. My breaths was shallow and quick, I fought an attempt to calm the anger and betrayal storming through me. I had to get out of here—away from him, away from the lies, away from everything.“Elena! Wait! Please, just listen!” Jason’s voice echoed down the empty corridor, desperation heavy in his tone. But I ignored him. Running faster.I finally reached my car, phewww! Fumbling, I pressed the unlock button, the vehicle’s lights blinking in response. But before I could escape, his hand closed around my wrist, halting me just inches from the door. His touch, which was usually warm and comforting, felt like iron now— it feels different.“Elena, please,” Jason pleaded, his gray eyes, usually filled with mystery and allure, now flashing with guilt a
Elena's POVThe morning sunlight streaming through the glass walls of the Brooks Group headquarters did little to lift my spirits. Today was monumental—a board meeting with the top executives, the very people who would decide if I was worthy of the CEO title. I should’ve felt excited, confident, even triumphant. But after last night’s revelations about Jason, my heart was heavy with confusion and betrayal.As I entered the boardroom, the faces around the table greeted me with expectant smiles. They were all counting on me, on the Brooks name. I was the heir to this company, yet at that moment, I felt like an outsider. I forced myself to focus, nodding along as the meeting began, playing with my fingers but my mind kept drifting back to Jason—Jason Campbell, or Edward, or whoever he truly was. I couldn’t shake the feeling of betrayal, the way he’d deceived me with a false identity. But this was no time for personal emotions. I tried to regain control, mentally berating myself to stay
Nina's POVThe room fell silent as Mark lifted the lid of the ornate box in his hands. Inside lay a stunning display of delicately crafted desserts, their intricate designs gleaming under the room’s chandelier. A gasp escaped Mark’s lips as he looked at me, his eyes wide with disbelief. His voice trembled as he murmured, "Nina… how did you…?" I smiled, but my heart pounded like a drum. I couldn’t afford to show weakness now—not in front of Vivian, Alexa, or Jasper. Keeping my gaze steady, I turned to the crowd that surrounded us, their eyes glued to the box. “These aren’t just desserts,” I announced confidently, my voice carrying over the murmurs of the room. “These are creations from my *personal* recipe collection—unique recipes that aren’t in any notebook, let alone the one Alexa claims as hers.”Gasps erupted from the crowd. Even Vivian, who had been smirking smugly moments earlier, faltered. Her sharp eyebrows furrowed, and her lips parted in disbelief. Alexa’s face, however,
Nina's POVVivian's laughter erupted, sharp and grating like nails on a chalkboard. Her manicured finger jabbed the air in my direction as if her mockery wasn’t already loud enough. Around us, the others joined her, their laughter rolling through the room like a cruel wave. My cheeks burned hot with shame, and I gripped the hem of my dress tightly, my knuckles whitening as my frustration grew. Only Mark and Jasper stood silently beside me, their gazes heavy with concern."Really?" Vivian sneered, tilting her head in exaggerated amusement. “You mean to tell me you’ve got support from the Northern Group? Please, Nina. You’re always dreaming of impossibilities that will never come your way!” Her tone dripped with venom, and her laughter cut through the air again.I swallowed my irritation and forced a smile, stepping closer to her with calm deliberation. “Shut up, Vivian. You clearly don’t know what you’re talking about,” I said firmly, my voice steady despite the storm brewing inside me
Nina'sI felt Mark’s hand tighten around mine as his panic became more evident. His wide eyes bore into mine, pleading silently for me to stop whatever I was about to do. The tension between us was thick, almost tangible, but I refused to be deterred. I leaned closer, lowering my voice so only he could hear me.“You don’t have to be afraid, Mark,” I whispered, flashing him a reassuring smile despite the storm brewing inside me. “I know exactly what I’m doing. Trust me, just follow my lead.”Mark’s jaw tightened, his lips parting as if to argue, but no words came out. His fingers trembled slightly against mine, and the fear in his eyes made my heart clench. But I couldn’t let his worry stop me. Not now. Not when everything I’d worked for was on the line.A loud, mocking laugh erupted from across the room, drawing everyone’s attention. Vivian sauntered forward, her confidence radiating off her like heat from a wildfire. Her lips curled into a smirk as she stopped just inches from me, he
**Nina’s POV**The night was finally here—the highly anticipated date party hosted by my father. My hands trembled slightly as I adjusted the delicate straps of my dress, one of the gorgeous outfits Mark had bought during our shopping spree. I felt an unfamiliar mixture of excitement and unease as we entered the grand hall together, arm in arm. The venue was breathtaking—soft, twinkling lights danced across the room, blending with the vibrant glow of rotating colors. A soft hum of sophisticated chatter filled the air, and I could feel every pair of eyes turning toward us.Mark looked impeccable in his tailored black tuxedo, his presence commanding the room. As we walked, I handed him a small, neatly wrapped box. He raised a brow at me, curiosity flashing in his eyes.“What’s this?” he asked, holding the box carefully as though it contained something fragile.“You’ll find out soon enough,” I replied with a sly smile.He gave me a playful smirk, his gaze lingering on mine for a beat lon
**Nina’s POV**We stood frozen in place, watching as Mr. Donald escorted Vivian out of the restaurant. Her hips swayed dramatically, as if she was still putting on a show for Mark, but it didn’t matter anymore. She was gone, and so was her unwelcome presence.Jordan’s face was a mask of pure shame and despair, his eyes darting frantically around the room as if searching for someone to save him. His once-confident demeanor had completely crumbled, leaving him exposed. It was oddly satisfying to witness his downfall.But then he did the unthinkable—he rushed over to Alexa, who was standing with her arms crossed, her expression a perfect mix of disdain and impatience.“Alexa, please,” Jordan begged, grabbing her hand desperately. “Will you give me a second chance? Just one dinner. That’s all I ask.”For a moment, I thought she might give in. Her eyes softened ever so slightly before narrowing into slits. “You’re just a pathetic fool, Jordan,” she spat, yanking her hand away. “Go fuck you
**Nina's POV**Mark stepped in front of me and Jordan, his posture solid and unyielding. The air between the two men was charged, as if the universe itself was holding its breath. Jordan’s jaw tightened, and his dark eyes bore into Mark’s with unbridled hatred.“Well, if it isn’t Mr. Perfect,” Jordan sneered, his voice dripping with venom. “Think you’re invincible, Mark? Guess what? You’re not. Let’s see how you handle this bid, Santiago. I can’t wait to see you cry like the loser you are.”Mark didn’t budge. Instead, his lips curled into a slight, almost mocking smirk. His piercing gaze didn’t waver as he said, “Whatever you think, Jordan. But let me make one thing clear—I’m not like you. I don’t depend on others to survive. I stand on my own two feet, confident in who I am. You, on the other hand, are nothing but a parasite, clinging to people to get by.”The words hit Jordan like a slap. His face flushed a deep red, and his fists clenched tightly at his sides. His entire body tremb
The morning started like any other, but by the end of it, I knew my world was about to change. Standing in my restaurant,I never imagined today would bring this much drama.---I was excited when I heard Alexa’s sharp gasp. The expression on her face when she saw Jordan, her so-called “one true love,” holding another woman was priceless. For the first time in a long while, I felt a sense of justice. Karma was finally paying her a visit.I couldn’t help but smirk as Alexa’s face twisted, a mixture of shock and rage flashing across her features. Her lips trembled, but she quickly composed herself, her eyes narrowing at the couple before her. “Jordan, what’s the meaning of this? Why are you with *her*? And who is she?” she demanded, her voice trembling.I crossed my arms and leaned against the receptionist’s desk, watching the scene unfold like a spectator at a live drama. The corners of my lips curved up in satisfaction.Jordan turned to Alexa, his arm still possessively draped around t
Nina's POV It was a beautiful morning, the sun was barely rising, casting a soft glow through the window. I groggily reached for the alarm, squinting as I turned it off. I stretched and yawned, blinking away the remnants of sleep. It was almost time for work, and judging by the time on my phone, I was cutting it close.With a small sigh, I slid out of bed, still in my pink pajamas, and put on my fluffy slippers. I shuffled over to the mirror, staring at my own reflection. My face looked a bit puffy; maybe I’d indulged in one too many snacks before bed. "I really need to work on my skincare routine," I muttered, grabbing my facial products and toothbrush.In the bathroom, I turned on my electric toothbrush and began brushing my teeth, feeling the buzz clear my head. Once done, I carefully applied my face mask, then a lip mask, letting the cool sensation wake me up. After a few minutes, I washed everything off, brushed my teeth again, and finally hopped into the shower.I emerged feeli
Nina's POV Frankly speaking, I was utterly exhausted by Alexa's endless lies. It was getting out of hand. She was spinning stories with such ease, and it infuriated me to think that she still believed she could pass herself off as the real Miss McDonald's. The nerve! Watching her prance around with that smug little smile, pretending to hold some high status—it was almost laughable. But I wasn’t laughing. I just sat there, a calm smile stretched across my lips, watching her unravel as I waited for the perfect moment to expose her.Just as I was about to respond, we all heard a commotion outside, and unmistakably, it was Mr. Bernard's booming voice. My lips twitched as the girls froze, all of them suddenly looking as if they’d been caught red-handed. I couldn’t help but think they looked like guilty children who knew they’d messed up. They were trembling in their places, eyes darting towards the door as the voice grew louder."And who the hell is impersonating my guests?!" Mr. Bernard