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CHAPTER FOUR
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2025-02-09 12:02:17Stanley’s POV
Today's work actually is a little bit tedious and tiring. “Come to my office now” I called my secretary in. I glanced through the documents in my front and made sure to sign at the appropriate place I was meant to “Yes boss” she replied with her hands crossed at her back and her head bowed a little bit It’s amazing being a wealthy man and the CEO of the company you are managing, you are bound to be respected a lot but it is also challenging as you are left to make decisions that can either favor the company or do otherwise. “Natalia, the contract we’ve been working on, what about it?” I asked as I focused my attention on her “We’ve been shortlisted amongst the companies to be given the contract and with all our efforts I’m sure we will be highly considered for it” she defended “That’s good, I trust you and the rest to seal it up and please make sure to always keep me updated as regards it” “Definitely” “Thank you, you can go” I instructed and focused my attention back on what I was doing earlier “Sorry to interrupt you, sir, but since your wedding is in two days, isn’t it better for you to go home, take a rest, and prepare ahead “ she suggested “That’s very thoughtful of you Natalia, I would soon be done here and leave. Thanks for your concern” And with that she left my office and at that moment I remembered that I hadn't spoken with Flora, my fiancée, that day and we didn’t see each other before I left for work. I assumed that she must have slept at her best friend place overnight I picked up my cell phone and dialed her number, it rang for a while before she finally picked. “H-hello”, she answered I noticed her shaky voice immediately she picked up, I was a little bit worried but had to ignore it “Hmm, hello. Seems like you forgot you had a fiancé right?” I teased her and chuckled a little I was expecting her to reply immediately and laugh with me but it took her a while before she replied, everywhere awkwardly quiet “I’m very sorry darling” she finally broke the silence but I could barely hear her voice Now I’m getting worried, I adjusted myself on my chair and closed the document in my front “Are you okay my love?” I asked my voice now firm and serious “Hmm I actually want to discuss something with you” I tried to listen carefully but wasn’t calm, why is Flora sounding this way? I was confused and disturbed “Okay love. I’m on my way to your place. But, hope you are feeling okay? Nothing is wrong with you right?” I asked just to be sure all is well with my wife to be before I get to her place “Yes baby, I’m fine. Please just be quick. Get here soon” That was the last thing I heard from her before she suddenly hang up the phone Definitely, there’s something serious going on. Flora doesn’t sound this way on a normal day. She seemed really disturbed. My curiosity and desperation got the best of me that I couldn’t even explain how I managed to pack my things from the office and zoomed off immediately. I hope she’s okay. I thought ignoring how I drove recklessly along the way Flora’s POV "Hey baby", Stanley said to me immediately I opened the door. He pulled me to a hug and tried kissing me, but I shifted my face away so he ended up kissing my cheeks "What's happening?", he asked, his voice laced with worry and frustration He pulled me into the living room, and shut the door. Immediately we got to the living room, he pulled me to sit on the couch beside him "Spill it out", he began, his face looking so serious That's it!! I'm finished!! How do I begin?? I thought **** After 30 minutes of confessing my sins to him, everywhere seemed calm and quiet. I was waiting for Stanley to say something, but he wasn't. I wanted to hear him yell, shout at me for cheating on him. For him to call me a cheater but none of that happened. He was just calm and quiet. This is very frightening, I thought. "Please say something Stanley", I finally broke the silence and knelt down immediately "What do you want me to say?", he said, his voice hoarse "Anything! Please, don't just keep mute", I told him, with tears in my eyes again "Okay!! Yes, I feel so disappointed", he said with a saddened face. "I feel like hitting my head on the wall. I feel so worthless. I feel betrayed" I didn't respond back to him. I was only looking down at my the bare tiles "But, in every emotion I'm feeling right now, I don't know why I still love you, like I feel that I can’t do without you beside me", he said. With all curiosity in me I looked up to loom at his face, to see if he was actually joking, but he wasn't "Yes Flora, I love you. I shouldn't still feel this way for you after what you did with that good for nothing bastard, but I don't know why the emotion is still there", he told me, while he helped me up and held my hand this time around "You didn't cheat on me because you wanted to, instead it happened because you were drunk already, so he took advantage of the opportunity. You were not in your right frame of mind, so why shouldn't I forgive you?", he said, his voice laced with love and sincerity "I really don't know what to say Stanley. I really thought you wouldn't forgive me. I thought you'd send me packing away, but you're not doing that. Instead you're professing your love for me", I said feeling very emotional and tingled with a little bit of happiness. "Yes baby, I still love you regardless. And I would still marry you no matter what, because you're the one I want to spend the rest of my life with. You told me the truth without me forcing you or finding out from someone else, therefore, I'd respect you for that", he said, pulling me to himself for a hug "Let's prepare for our wedding, and pretend like this never happened," he continued. "Okay?" I could only nod my head as a sign that I agree with him, because I was short of words. How am I lucky to have this man. I thought, he’s a blessing to me. Just like that, Stanley and I are back together, even with the ups and downs that we faced, we overcame all through love. “What about Jessica, your best friend? Where was she when all these happened?” Stanley asked just before he left and this question really baffled me and it totally slipped my mind to get clarified by Jessica.Related chapters
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Flora’s POV ON THE WEDDING DAY; AT THE RECEPTIONIt'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 faceIt's now time to exchange giftsThe 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 himI 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 fro
Last Updated : 2025-02-09SHADOWED DECEPTION: Unraveling The Truth CHAPTER SIX
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
Last Updated : 2025-02-09SHADOWED DECEPTION: Unraveling The Truth CHAPTER SEVEN
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
Last Updated : 2025-02-09SHADOWED DECEPTION: Unraveling The Truth CHAPTER EIGHT
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
Last Updated : 2025-02-09SHADOWED DECEPTION: Unraveling The Truth CHAPTER NINE
Stanley’s POV I stood tall, dressed up in my black tuxedo with my matching pants and sparkly white Nike sneakers. Even though I was in a rush, I still looked good and sharp. I felt a sense of confidence as I headed for the impromptu stakeholder’s meeting which was just called up, which I am still surprised about. For the meeting to have been called on short notice then it must really be important and urgent As I rushed downstairs, I greeted my mum and my little sister before I hurriedly left the house. My driver and personal assistant were already waiting for me by the car and I instructed them to start the movement without any delay. Upon arriving, the conference room was filled with tension as I entered quietly. Seems everyone was waiting for me because all eyes were on me as I entered. I surveyed the entire room occupied by shareholders, a mix of individuals and representatives from various investment firms, all sat down with their arms crossed and their faces etched with di
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
Last Updated : 2025-02-09SHADOWED DECEPTION: Unraveling The Truth CHAPTER ELEVEN
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
Last Updated : 2025-02-09
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SHADOWED DECEPTION: Unraveling The Truth CHAPTER TWENTY TWO
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
