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CHAPTER FIVE
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2025-02-09 12:02:40Flora’s POV
ON THE WEDDING DAY; AT THE RECEPTION It's finally the long-awaited day, and I'm so excited. The wedding at the church went well, and we're presently at the reception venue. "You're very lucky to have Stanley as your husband Lora", Jessica, my maid of honor said to me "Yeah, you're right baby. He's really a god sent to my life", I replied to her, having a shy smile on my face It's now time to exchange gifts The guests were bringing in their gifts, while Stanley and I accepted them with smiles on our faces. We were doing so until one particular handsome-looking man in a black suit came in with his gift "Congratulations on your marriage. I pray it lasts long and bear fruits", the man said, handing us his gift "Thank you very much", I appreciated him, smiling at him I turned to look at Stanley because he hadn't said anything since the man gave us his gift. Normally, he was supposed to accept and appreciate him, but he didn't do any of that. Instead, it seemed like he had frozen up "Hey, say something", I whispered, tapping him to snap from his trance and do the right thing, but the man had gone by then "What's the matter with you? Why did you freeze up like that?", I asked him, feeling worried "He's my future disaster", he said, his voice sounding so distant and trembling. Future disaster? What does he mean by that? I ignored him and the ceremony continued even though Stanley was a little bit lost. THREE MONTHS LATER It's been three months since my wedding with Stanley. Three months of having the title 'Mrs Davis'. I must say, it feels so good to be called that. I feel special being addressed as such. Around two weeks ago, I was having some morning sickness and some symptoms of pregnancy. I really wanted and wished to be pregnant, so I took a pregnancy test, and it was confirmed that I was indeed pregnant. This news came as a source of blessing, happiness, and strength to the relationship between Stanley and I. Our family members were elated to hear the news too including my mother-in-law who came to visit. I'm very sure this baby is my gift from God. I really needed another bundle of joy other than Stanley, and God granted me one. The pregnancy stages weren’t easy since it was my first time, but thank God I have Stanley and my family to take care of me MONTHS LATER… The day that we have all been waiting for finally arrived. Our little bundle of joy was born. It's a baby girl, just like Stanley had predicted. He had always wanted a daughter first, and I had always prayed to God to grant him his heart's desire because he is truly a good husband, and I'm sure he will even be a great father, so he deserves it. "Aww she looks just like you sweetie", Stanley said for the hundredth time today. He has been calling baby Aurora since today and has refused to let anyone touch her. Yes, we decided to name her Aurora, after Stanley's grandmother's name because Stanley thinks baby Aurora looks like her Well, who am I to object? As long as the baby's name is a fine one, then I'm good with it. Aurora is a wonderful name anyways "Stanley, please let us carry her for once, please. We will hand her over to you soon", I heard my mom pleading with Stanley to let her carry baby Aurora, and I was on the bed just smiling because I was very sure Stanley would refuse "Alright, you'll carry her soon. I'm coming", he replied, still not giving the baby out He has been like that since today. I really don't have any issues with that for now As long as they would let me have my baby once I recover, then it's fine. After some days we were discharged from the hospital and we went home with our baby girl Baby Aurora is surely a source of joy to people around her. She doesn't disturb me and she smiles a lot. She's very obedient. She only cries when she's hungry or when her diaper is full and she needs to change I must say that Stanley has really been a supportive system for me "She's also my daughter, so I must take care of her as well", that's what he keeps telling me anytime I thank him for his assistance. Days turned to weeks and weeks turned to months. It's been four months since baby Aurora was born, and I must say, things have been going smoothly Or so I thought? Our happiness was short-lived as Michael chose to resurface from nowhere like a lost lamb that just found its way home I don't know how he found where we were living, but he came to my home, where Stanley, I, and our baby Aurora lived This time around, he wasn’t here for me. Instead, he came for my baby, baby Aurora!!! "I want my baby with me", he said, his voice sounding confident "What baby are you talking about?", I asked him, my voice laced with worry as I stood up and faced him angrily. "You know the baby I'm talking about. Baby Aurora of course", he began. "I'm surely going to change that silly name you gave her, once I claim custody of her" "And what gave you the right to claim my baby as yours?", I asked him, feeling so upset. Stanley kept quiet throughout while Micheal was making all his ridiculous claims. "If you think I'm lying or crazy, then let's do a DNA test", he later said, trying to sound so sure of what he was saying What if he's actually correct? What if his claims are right? I was worried sick of why this devil in human form had come back for me. "Alright then. We agree, but only if you foot the bill", I heard Stanley from behind me agree with his ridiculous claims I turned to look at Stanley with a look of betrayal and disappointment, but his gaze on me was pleading for understanding He is right though. We need to know the truth, and I just hope my truth is the only truth. Michael's statement should not be true. But he sounds so convincing. What if he's planning something underneath? "Fine then, I agree to foot whatever bill there will be", Michael agrees with Stanley's condition The test was conducted that very same day and the once happy home is on the verge of collapsing and disruption. Days later after the test was done, the result was finally ready. This is time to know if Stanley is the father or if Michael is But I was so sure that Stanley was the father of my baby girl Or so I thought… "What does the result say? Is Aurora Micheal baby?", I heard my mother-in-law ask, her voice laced with worry Everyone in the family must be feeling so tense like I am right now. "Well, Michael isn't the father of the child", the doctor said I jumped up with joy in my heart. Stanley also came to hug too "The paternity test shows that the baby has 0.00 percent gene from Michael, which makes him not the father", the doctor continued "You see, I told you that you are not the father of my baby, but you refused to believe me. Now what do you have to say for yourself?", I asked Michael, trying to mock him His face was now red from anger. He has always had anger issues. On a normal day, I'd have gone to hide so that he wouldn't beat me, but now I'm not afraid. I have Stanley and the rest of my family by my side "So now that you've gotten what you want, you should leave. You loser", Stanley shouted at Michael, his voice was full of happiness, giving Michael a wicked grin "Yes, I'll leave, not until the doctor reads out the result for Stanley's paternity test too", Michael said, he still had the nerve to talk "Since you asked for a DNA test to be conducted, it has been done. And it is confirmed that you're not the father, what more do you want?", Stanley tackles him, his voice laced with anger, and am sure any moment he could pounce on Micheal the way he saved me before. "Yes, I know, but I won't leave until I hear the results and who the child belongs to", Michael said, still persistent in staying I was getting confused and curious as to why Michael wanted to be sure of who the Father was, if it wasn’t Micheal then surely it will be Stanley I assured myself "Okay then. Please doctor, what's the result? Tell us, so that this pathetic man can leave us alone", I asked the doctor, feeling uneasy already "Hmm, Stanley isn't the father of the child either", the doctor said slowly "WHAT!!", everyone exclaimedRelated chapters
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Flora’s POV "Are you very sure about that?", I asked the doctor, my voice shaking with fear as I moved closer to him and collected the document he was holding even though I had no idea what was written Desperation was written all over my face, what’s the meaning of all this? Why is this happening? I thought as Stanley came to join me where I was standing close to the doctor "Yes, I'm 100% sure that neither Stanley nor Michael is the father of the child", the doctor confirmedWhat's this supposed to mean? How can neither of the two men I've been involved with, be the father of my child? I looked at where Michael was seated and I saw the way he was smiling wickedly If neither Stanley nor Michael is the father of my baby, then who is the Father of the child????I looked at where baby Aurora was sleeping and I could only pity myself because now I could only imagine the explanation I was going to give Stanley and our family members present. I stood still, shocked and paralyzed. I cou
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Flora’s POV “I know what you want Flora” “I have the answers that you are desperately searching for” I heard this cold, deep, baritone voice My heart racing, immediately I pat baby Aurora to stop crying and pleaded with one of the maids to help look after her before I went back into my room Immediately I got to my room, I shut the door behind me and closed all the windows “Micheal, what are you doing here?” I asked in a low sharp voice “How did you manage to get in?” “Is that what you are curious about or the answer to who is the father of your child?” He paused his eyes glinting with confidenceI looked at him with a surprised and desperate look “Yes I know the father of your child,” he said his voice firm and bold I was dumbfounded and confused, my mind reeled with several questions, I didn’t even really care how he got into my room. All I care about is, who the hell is the father of my child “Who is the father?” I asked him desperation laced in my voice Michael’s smile g
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Flora’s POV I sat down at the edge of my bed, lost in the depths of my mind, a gentle tap on the back of my shoulder jolted me back to reality. I had been daydreaming all this while, Micheal was definitely not here, I thought stupidly with my head bowed down for a moment. I couldn’t believe I was having this stupid thought. Baby Aurora’s wails had grown louder which finally registered in my consciousness what was going on, I looked around just to be sure no one was here before. “What were you thinking, Flora?” I heard my best friend's voice laced with both concern and surprise “I could hear the sound of Aurora’s crying way before climbing the stairs only for me to meet you here lost in your little thoughts” she queried as she picked up baby Aurora and petted her “Am so sorry babe, I was lost in thought that’s all” I swept my hair back, revealing my face, which was etched with worry and concern. “What were you thinking that made you unrealized of the situation around you” Jessica
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Last Updated : 2025-02-09SHADOWED DECEPTION: Unraveling The Truth CHAPTER TEN
ANONYMOUS POV“Finally, my plans are getting accomplished little by little and I must say that I am impressed to some extent,” I said as I relaxed on my couch and watched one of the media publish the news from Stanley’s interview on the screen. “He looked like he was going to snap and collapse on the spot. The Funny thing is that I am just getting started with him, I would make sure he regrets being alive. Stanley is right where I want him”. The thought sent a shiver of excitement down my spine as I took a sip of my juice and changed the channel to a football match between a long rival Real Madrid vs Barcelona.Moments later, my phone rang and surprisingly the caller was one of my most trusted minions, Jessica Campbell. “Speak” I ordered immediately, my voice firm as I picked up the phone “Good day boss” she began “I believe that I have completed my part of the mission. Am I permitted to return to Canada where I came from,” she asked her voice laced with fear and worry I get the r
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Stanley’s POV"Flora!" I screamed, my voice thick with rage and disbelief.She turned to look at me, her face contorted in shock, and just as our eyes met—I woke up.My breath came in short gasps as I shot up from the bed, my heart pounding against my chest. Sweat clung to my forehead, and the remnants of the dream still lingered in my mind. I rubbed my temples, cursing under my breath.It was just a dream.A damn dream.But why the hell was I still thinking about her? Why was she still tormenting me even in my sleep?I glanced at the clock. It was the middle of the night, yet sleep had completely abandoned me. With a frustrated sigh, I threw off the duvet, got out of bed, and stepped into the surprisingly bright hallway.As I walked past Flora’s room, I instinctively slowed my steps. The door was shut, but just standing there made my chest feel heavy. I hated that I still felt anything at all. It had been weeks, and yet, the hurt refused to fade.Shaking my head, I continued tow
Last Updated : 2025-02-09SHADOWED DECEPTION: Unraveling The Truth CHAPTER TWELVE
Flora’s POVI waited.The sound of Stanley’s footsteps echoed through the hallway as he left the house. I stayed perfectly still in my bedroom, cradling Aurora close to my chest, listening intently for the sound of the front door closing.A few moments later, I heard the unmistakable roar of his car engine as he drove away.Only then did I let out the breath I’d been holding.I had been avoiding him since last night. His words still stung like fresh wounds, reopening the pain I had desperately tried to bury. I knew Stanley hated me, but to call my daughter a bastard? That was a level of cruelty I hadn’t been prepared for.I pressed a soft kiss to Aurora’s forehead. "We’re okay," I whispered, even though I wasn’t sure if I was trying to reassure her or myself.Carefully placing her back into her crib, I stood and stretched before making my way to the bathroom. I splashed cold water on my face, trying to wash away the exhaustion that clung to me like a second skin.When I finally ste
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Flora’s POVI sat in a secluded corner of the restaurant, my hands wrapped around a lukewarm cup of tea. Aurora was nestled in my arms, her tiny breaths warm against my chest. I prayed silently that she wouldn’t cry, that she wouldn’t cause a scene. The last thing I needed was attention.My eyes flickered to the entrance every few seconds, scanning the faces of strangers. I couldn’t shake the feeling that I was being watched.Then, I saw him.Michael walked into the restaurant, his gaze sweeping the room until he spotted me. A waitress approached him, saying something before motioning in my direction. He nodded and made his way over, his expression unreadable.As soon as he reached me, his eyes landed on Aurora. He stretched a hand forward, but I pulled my daughter closer, my arms tightening around her protectively.Michael let out a low chuckle and raised his hands in surrender. “Relax, Flora. I’m not here to snatch her from you.”I said nothing. I simply stared at him, waiting.
Last Updated : 2025-02-12
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Jessica's POV I keep dialing, tapping my fingers against the counter as I wait for them to pick up. The bar is loud, filled with laughter, clinking glasses, and music that vibrates through my chest.Finally, the call connects.There’s a shuffle, and then the voice I’ve been waiting for the boss.“What?” His tone is sharp, impatient.I straighten in my seat. “I’ve set the plan in motion.”Silence. Then, his voice drops into something colder. “And you did that without informing me first?”I swallow. “Look, I need you to calm down and listen to what I did.”He doesn’t say anything, which means he’s listening. So, I continue.“I called Stanley. Told him I was drunk and feeling down. He took the bait. He’s on his way here now.” I lower my voice. “And I think he’s already got a thing for me.”There’s a pause before the boss responds. “Make sure everything goes public.” His voice is like ice. “That way, Flora can move on in peace.”I roll my eyes. “Do you like Flora or something?”A lo
SHADOWED DECEPTION: Unraveling The Truth CHAPTER TWENTY ONE
Anonymous POV The dark glow of the cigar’s ember illuminates the room as I take a slow drag, letting the smoke curl around me. The air is thick with the scent of power, deceit, and victory that’s just within reach.A sharp knock echoes against the heavy oak door. Without looking up, I flick my fingers, signaling the guard to enter.He steps in, his face blank as always. “Sir, Senator Jones is on the line.”I exhale a cloud of smoke and take the phone. “Jones,” I greet smoothly.“It’s happening just as we planned,” the senator’s voice crackles through the line. “Stanley’s falling apart. His wife has left, and the rumors are already flying.”A slow smile creeps onto my lips. “And how is he taking it?”“He’s pretending not to care, but my sources tell me he lost it after she left. Trashed her room. He’s spiraling.”I chuckle darkly. “Good. That’s exactly where we need him. Keep me posted, Jones. The real game is just beginning.”“You’ll have your updates,” Jones assures me. “And don’
SHADOWED DECEPTION: Unraveling The Truth CHAPTER TWENTY
Flora's POV I fold the last of my clothes into the suitcase, pressing down to make room for everything. It’s funny how a place can feel like home one minute and like a prison the next. I glance around the bedroom, the one I used to share with Stanley, the one where I once imagined building a future together. Now, I’m being kicked out like I was never here.A soft knock on the door makes me pause. I turn and see my mother, Mrs. Grace, standing at the doorway, a warm smile on her face."Mom," I whisper, and before I know it, I’m in her arms, hugging her tightly.She strokes my back. "My baby," she murmurs. "You’ve been through so much."I nod, my throat tight. I don’t trust myself to speak, afraid I’ll break down completely.Mom pulls away and walks over to the crib, where Aurora is sound asleep. She picks her up gently and kisses her chubby little cheeks. "Oh, my sweet grandbaby. You’re getting more beautiful by the day."For a brief moment, I allow myself to smile, watching my mot
SHADOWED DECEPTION: Unraveling The Truth CHAPTER NINETEEN
Flora's POV I sit on the bed, cradling Aurora in my arms as I gently guide the bottle to her lips. She suckles eagerly, her tiny fingers curling against my chest. Watching her like this, so small and innocent, fills me with both warmth and sadness. No matter what happens, she’s all that matters now.The door creaks open, and before I can turn my head, I feel arms wrap around me from behind. A soft kiss lands on my cheek, then another on Aurora’s tiny chubby one."Look at my two favorite girls," Jessica coos, her voice light and cheerful.I glance at her and arch a brow. "You seem awfully happy today. What’s up?"Jessica grins, but there’s something mischievous in her eyes. "Can’t I just be in a good mood?"I narrow my gaze. "Jessica…"She throws up her hands playfully. "Okay, okay, maybe I do have a reason, but you’ll find out soon enough."I shake my head at her but let it go. If she wants to be cryptic, fine. Right now, my mind is too cluttered to dig into whatever she’s hiding.
SHADOWED DECEPTION: Unraveling The Truth CHAPTER EIGHTEEN
Stanley's POV I sit on the edge of my bed, rubbing my temples as the dull throb of a hangover pounds in my skull. My mind is hazy, but one thing is clear, I spent the night in Flora’s room.I exhale sharply, running a hand through my hair. What the hell was I thinking? How did I even end up there? I try to recall every detail, but the only thing I clearly remember is the warmth of her embrace, the softness of her voice, and the way she looked at me with tears in her eyes.Damn it.I push myself off the bed and head straight to the bathroom, splashing cold water on my face. I can’t let myself get caught up in emotions. I made a decision, and I need to follow through with it.After quickly freshening up, I grab an aspirin from the medicine cabinet and down it with a glass of water. The bitter taste lingers, but I don’t care. I need to focus.I pick up my phone and dial my secretary’s number. She picks up on the first ring."Mr. Hudson?""Make sure my meeting with the press today pu
SHADOWED DECEPTION: Unraveling The Truth CHAPTER SEVENTEEN
Jessica's POV I step out of my car, inhaling deeply as I approach the house. My heart is pounding, but I keep my expression blank. I already know what’s waiting for me inside, and I refuse to let him see any fear.As I push the door open, I spot Michael sitting on the couch, a half-empty bottle of bourbon on the table in front of him. His fingers lazily swirl the amber liquid in his glass, his gaze dark and unreadable.But it’s not the alcohol that makes my stomach tighten—it’s the whip and the gun lying beside the bottle.I exhale through my nose. So this is how it’s going to be.Michael lifts his gaze to me, his lips curling into a slow, dangerous smile. “Jessica,” he drawls, his voice laced with amusement.I don’t return the greeting. Instead, I step forward and fold my arms across my chest. “Whatever you’re planning to do, don’t,” I say sharply. “You’ll regret it.”His smile doesn’t falter. In fact, it widens. “Regret?” He takes a slow sip of his drink before setting the glass d
SHADOWED DECEPTION: Unraveling The Truth CHAPTER SIXTEEN
Flora’s POVThe morning light filters through the curtains, casting a soft glow across my bedroom. I should get up, get dressed, maybe even go downstairs but I don’t. I can’t. The thought of facing anyone in this house makes my stomach turn.I pull my knees to my chest, wrapping my arms around myself for comfort. My phone sits beside me on the bed, and I glance at the screen. Jessica should be here soon. I called her early this morning, needing someone to talk to.A soft knock at the door startles me.“Come in,” I call, my voice weaker than I’d like.Jessica steps inside, her expression unreadable. I don’t waste any time. “Stanley wants a divorce.”I watched her closely, searching for a reaction, but she didn't look shocked. She doesn’t gasp or even blink in surprise.I narrow my eyes. “You knew, didn’t you?”She sighs, shifting on her feet. “I didn’t know for sure,” she admits. “But I figured he would do something about the marriage sooner or later.” She hesitates. “Especially sin
SHADOWED DECEPTION: Unraveling The Truth CHAPTER FIFTEEN
Stanley’s POVChloe’s eyes gleamed with satisfaction as she stepped closer to me. “You did the right thing, big brother,” she said, her voice smug and victorious.I didn’t reply. I couldn’t. My throat felt tight, and my chest burned with something I couldn’t name. Instead of acknowledging her, I turned on my heel and walked toward the stairs. But before I could take a step up, my mother’s voice cut through the air.“Stanley,” she called, her tone firm and expectant.I stopped, my grip tightening on the railing. I turned slightly, meeting her scrutinizing gaze.“What made you change your mind?” she asked, her brows furrowed. “Yesterday, you were still tolerating that woman. What happened?”I exhaled slowly, masking the storm raging inside me. “What, Mother? You’re not happy about it?”Her lips curled into a pleased smirk, but something was calculating in her eyes. “Oh, I’m happy,” she admitted. “But it’s a little… sudden. A little suspicious.”“There’s nothing suspicious about it,
SHADOWED DECEPTION: Unraveling The Truth CHAPTER FOURTEEN
Flora’s POVThe moment I stepped into the house, I knew something was wrong. Chloe and her mother are standing in the middle of the living room, their arms crossed, their eyes filled with contempt."Where have you been?" Chloe snaps, her voice laced with irritation.I exhale sharply. "It’s none of your business. I need to rest." I shift Aurora in my arms and make a move toward the staircase.But of course, they won’t let me go that easily. Chloe's mother steps forward, her eyes blazing with anger. “Don’t think you can just waltz in here and ignore us, Flora,” she spits. 'We know all about your little escapade.'"I felt a chill run down my spine as Chloe's mocking gaze met mine. 'Yes, Flora, we know all about your meeting with your lover,' Chloe sneers, her voice dripping with malice.My heart sank, and I felt like I'd been punched in the gut. “How did they find out? And what do they plan to do with this information?”Chloe's steps forward, her eyes flashing with fury. "We know ev
