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CHAPTER FORTY
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STONE HEARTED CHAPTER FORTY-ONE
Anika's P.O.V Did he mean that? Nah, he probably just cared about me as a friend, as he had said. I sighed in frustration. The ache of missing him had grown stronger, and the longing to see him again was almost unbearable. Over a month had passed since the incident, and this hospital room had become monotonous and dull. I yearned for an escape, but with the constant surveillance from the vigilant nurses, it seemed unlikely that I'd be leaving anytime soon. The door swung open, and I glanced up to see Mrs. Birtch, or rather Caroline – Kelvin's mother – entering the room. "Hey," I removed an airport from my ear and set my phone aside as she settled onto the couch next to my bed. "How have you been?" she inquired. "I'm okay," I replied with a touch of falsehood in my voice. "Caroline," I began, pushing a few strands of hair behind my ear, "what's taking so long? Why hasn't Kelvin woken up yet? It's been months." Caroline sighed softly and settled onto the edge of my bed. "The d
STONE HEARTED CHAPTER FORTY-TWO
Anika's P.O.V I acted impulsively, unsure of my thoughts. He reciprocated the kiss, drawing me close. His gentle touch sent shivers down my spine. My hands clung to his neck, urging him on. Then, he took the lead, his kiss silencing my pain. My heart raced as our lips met. His kiss was both tender and passionate, like a spellbinding enchantment. Our lips fit together perfectly. Breaking for air, I grinned and nibbled my lip. "That was... incredible," he beamed. "Yeah..." I placed my hand on his chest. "How long was I unconscious?" he inquired, adjusting himself on the pillow. "For over a month," I answered, my eyes misting over. "Are you tearing up?" he worriedly questioned. "I'm alright." I stood, wiping away a tear, and turned to face him. "I almost lost you, and it's been the most terrifying experience I've ever faced," I sniffled. "I'm sorry," he responded. "I need to call the doctor. You've just woken up from a two-month coma, and you're still weak. What if something g
STONE HEARTED CHAPTER FORTY-THREE
Anika's P.O.V Five entire months had elapsed since my discharge from the hospital, and Kelvin had only been out for the past two weeks. He was now at home, recuperating. He had attempted to persuade me to return to work, but I declined. I wanted to spare him any unnecessary stress, especially considering he had saved my life. I felt I owed him in some way. The company had been thriving, and I could confidently say that a significant sale the year was attributed to both Mr. Hart's contributions and my own. Life had been running seamlessly since Richard's exit from my life. I had the support of two wonderful best friends, a circle of friends, a caring woman who felt like a mother, and employees who seemed loyal and trustworthy (at least I hoped so). What more could I possibly ask for? My life was genuinely content, and I hoped that nothing would disrupt this sense of peace. "Hey," I greeted as Kelvin swung the door open. "Why are you here?" he asked with a look of surprise on his
STONE HEARTED CHAPTER FORTY-FOUR
Anika's P.O.V I stormed out of his house and slammed the door shut behind me. The tears that I had struggled to keep at bay now streamed down my face. I rushed to my car and drove away, finding myself at a park where I hunched over the steering wheel. How could he? How could he confess his love for me? I never wanted to be the object of affection for any guy, especially not him. Maybe I should have seen this coming, but all I ever wanted was a strong friendship. Why did he have to fall for me? Guys can be heartless and cruel, and I swore I would never let myself be vulnerable to them again, no matter the circumstances. I gave Richard another chance when he pleaded for it, and what did I receive in return? Double the pain. Double the betrayal. Double the devastation. That was the pattern with guys. They pretend to be kind, but eventually, they betray you. I believed Kelvin genuinely wanted my friendship, and I was content with that so why did he have to complicate things by fa
STONE HEARTED CHAPTER FORTY-FIVE
Anika's P.O.V "You should attend the meeting we have with the KNYs," Kathy's voice came through the phone. "But I'm exhausted and not in the mood for another meeting. I was up all night dealing with emails," I explained, feeling drained. "But it's important that you're there," she insisted. "I'm tempted to just have you stand in for me. Tell them I'm either busy, unwell, or invent something believable. You're good with words, that's why you're my assistant. Please find a way, I'm sure you can do it because I can't handle sitting through hours of boring discussions," I complained. "No, you need to be there in person. Mr. Jordan himself requested your presence," Her words made me sigh as I reluctantly got out of bed. Kathy didn't stop there. "And if you don't show up, it might upset him enough to consider canceling the deal. From what I've heard about him, he's not the easiest person to deal with. I strongly suggest you start heading here unless—" "He'll terminate the deal, get i
STONE HEARTED CHAPTER FORTY-SIX
Anika's P.O.V "Anika, I'm sorry," Kathy entered my office, still following me. "They should've informed us about the rescheduled meeting," I exhaled. "Yes, but-" "I woke up early solely for this pointless meeting," I interrupted. "I understand-" "I nearly choked on my food while rushing here." "Well-" "I came close to having an accident, thinking I was running late." "Thank goodness you didn't-" "You know what? It's called off!" I shouted. "What- What's called off?" "Our deal with them. It's off, and regardless of what you attempt to convey, my decision won't change," I said as I took a seat and let out a sigh. "But-" "Cancel the agreement immediately!" I exclaimed. "Alright, fine. But before I do so, remember that this company is in a precarious state and could suffer significant losses without proper care. Also, your dad put in a lot of effort to elevate this company before he passed away..." She paused and then continued. "He entrusted this company to you because he
STONE HEARTED CHAPTER FORTY-SEVEN
Kelvin's P.O.V The instant her eyes locked onto mine, a shiver shot down my spine, and I stood rooted to the spot in the middle of the road. It felt as if time itself had frozen. My heart, I swear, seemed to halt, and a wave of goosebumps washed over my skin with an intensity that felt almost painful. A lump lodged in my throat, leaving me speechless, incapable of uttering a single word to the person standing before me. Bright, striking green eyes stared back at me—eyes I hadn't gazed into for an entire five years. Eyes that I had both passionately loved and vehemently resented. Her face, her lips, they were the same, virtually unchanged except for her once strawberry blonde hair, which had turned jet black for some enigmatic reason. Even all that transformation couldn't erode the indelible memory I carried of her, a memory that had haunted me relentlessly over the past five years. I recognized her immediately. No matter how vigorously I attempted to blot it out, I could neve
STONE HEARTED CHAPTER FORTY-EIGHT
Anika's P.O.V Time came to a standstill. I didn't budge, not even as raindrops began to plummet and then intensified, assaulting my bare skin with stinging force. Cold enveloped me, seeping into my bones, and prompting shivers. There I stood, drenched in the middle of the road. Though I knew I should hurry home before catching a cold, a part of me seemed to welcome the discomfort, as if I were punishing myself. He had walked away, instructing me to keep my distance. Did he loathe me that intensely? I was well aware of the mistakes I'd made in the past, but my remorse remained unceasing, a burden I bear to this day. I felt the warmth of tears trickling down my cheeks, a stark reminder that I was crying. At the very least, he could acknowledge my greetings. Perhaps I earned this treatment; I inflicted deep hurt upon him, and now he held an overwhelming disdain for me, despite the passage of five years. I couldn't fathom why, but the pain was agonizing. My heart quivered, more tears
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STONE HEARTED CHAPTER SIXTY-SEVEN
Anika's P.O.V I exited my car and made my way to the restaurant where Kelvin had asked me to meet him. It was the same place where we had our first date, although it had changed significantly. The restaurant had grown larger, more spacious, and more beautiful than I remembered, but the name and location helped me recognize it. It struck me as somewhat strange that Kelvin had chosen this particular spot. We had been on numerous dates over the past three months, yet he had never brought me here before. I couldn't help but wonder why he had chosen it for this occasion. Upon entering, I greeted the waitress with a simple "Birtch." She nodded and guided me to the same table where Kelvin and I had shared our first date. This place now held special memories for me, and I will cherish them forever. Our table was positioned in the middle of the restaurant, offering a lovely view of the city's night sky and the glowing street lights outside. As I approached the table, Kelvin stood up to
STONE HEARTED CHAPTER SIXTY-SIX
Anika's P.O.V I was happy and excited about following my heart and pursuing what I truly desired. But, to be honest, I was also deeply scared. I feared how Kelvin would react when I revealed everything – my feelings, and the fact that I was carrying his child. He patiently waited for me, for nearly six years, hoping that I would eventually return his love. He did everything within his power to make me happy. He became my source of solace during my darkest hours. He risked his life for mine, shielding me from Richard's threat. He detested seeing me in tears and always went above and beyond to bring a smile to my face. I was blinded by my fear of love, unable to recognize that Kelvin's love for me was unwavering. I used to think all men were unfaithful, given the pain my exes had caused me. But everything changed when I met Kelvin. I can vividly recall our first encounter at my office, during the interview process. At first, I was captivated by his handsomeness, but I quickly d
STONE HEARTED CHAPTER SIXTY-FIVE
Anika's P.O.V A week had passed since everything happened. Cherry had finally returned to her country, clearing up the rumors about her and Kelvin, stating that they were just friends and business partners with nothing more, emphasizing that they wouldn't become a couple since there was someone else in both of their lives. It had caused quite a stir among their fans, and I knew this because I had been stalking her on social media, as well as Kelvin. Since our encounter at the event, I hadn't seen or spoken to Kelvin. I sighed as I glanced at the calendar on my phone. Today was the day he had given me to decide what he meant to me, or else he would leave. The truth was, I didn't know the answer. Ever since that event, I hadn't been myself, and we hadn't exchanged a word. It was tearing me apart. I couldn't bring myself to accept that I loved him, even though deep down, I had known it for the past five years. Discovering that truth had blindsided me. Kelvin had sent me a message
STONE HEARTED CHAPTER SIXTY-FOUR
Anika's P.O.V I stared at my reflection in awe as the makeup artist put the finishing touches on my look. Had I described myself as looking "hot" earlier? If I did, then I needed a new word to describe how I looked right now. It was what I had been talking about; I always knew I was beautiful. So, what on earth did Jordan see in Cherry, or whatever her name was? "Wow, you look stunning. Can I take your picture and post it on my I*******m?" a makeup artist asked, and I nodded. "Of course," I posed for a few photos, and I could see the smile on her face as she uploaded the picture to her social media. "Are you ready now... woah. Is that an angel or what?" Kathy exclaimed when she saw me. I chuckled. "You wound me, Kathy. I'm way hotter than an angel, so you better correct yourself," I playfully scolded her, using her last name. "Okay, Your Majesty, is that someone hotter than an angel or what?" She replied, bowing. I laughed. "Thanks for the compliment. Can we get going now?" I a
STONE HEARTED CHAPTER SIXTY-THREE
Anika's P.O.V "Anika! Look!" I snapped out of my thoughts when Kathy barged in, shoving her iPad practically in my face. "What?" I asked, and she gestured toward the tablet. "Check out what the article says inside," she suggested, and I reluctantly complied. I felt a wave of nausea as I came across the headline and the picture within. It was Kelvin, his arms wrapped around some woman as they exited a hotel. He looked genuinely happy around her, even smiling at the camera. The woman was undeniably attractive, but in that moment, all I wanted was to see her radiant smile turn to sadness because she was clinging to Kelvin's arm like he was her boyfriend. My fury intensified when I read the headline: "Did the town's most handsome and eligible bachelor have a one-night stand with last year's Miss Beauty and a Victoria's Secret model?" accompanied by two wide-eyed emojis. I pushed the tablet away from my face, seething with anger. How dare he do this after taking me on a date and
STONE HEARTED CHAPTER SIXTY-TWO
Anika's P.O.V I closed my eyes and sighed, tightly clutching my pillow. Why was I feeling this way? I should be happy that he was leaving. I mean, I wanted him to leave, so why was I sad about him leaving? I remembered the look he gave me after our kiss. It felt like we would never see each other again, and I felt heartbroken. I was surprised that I kissed him back. It was as if I was already used to him. During that kiss, I felt a spark inside me, and my heart raced so fast, it felt like it might explode. I was so confused about my feelings, and it was incredibly frustrating. He was leaving the next day, and I might never see him again. I felt devastated when he left five years ago, and now that I finally saw him again, it turned out he was leaving soon. I didn't know what to do anymore; I didn't understand myself. *** My eyes fluttered open as the sun's rays slowly invaded my room, earning a groan from me. Why does morning have to come so soon? Couldn't the hours be a bit
STONE HEARTED CHAPTER SIXTY-ONE
Anika's P.O.V "So, what can I get you?" the irritating manager inquired, although it seemed like she was directing the question solely to Kelvin. She flashed him that annoying smile, oozing with fake charm. "I'd rather not deal with you. Have someone else attend to us," I retorted, not hiding my displeasure. The woman's gaze turned to me, her brows knitting into a frown. "With all due respect, ma'am, I'm here to assist, whether you like it or not. It's not your call to decide who serves you. You should consider yourself fortunate to be in a place like this," she spat back, surprising me with her audacity. I hadn't anticipated her responding so rudely. "Just because I didn't react when you insulted me earlier doesn't mean I'm unintelligent. Why am I being treated this way? Is this how you treat all your customers?" I seethed, my frustration bubbling to the surface. "No, just the less privileged ones," she sneered, her smirk infuriating. "How dare you? Do you have any idea who I a
STONE HEARTED CHAPTER SIXTY
Anika's P.O.V I gazed at him for a moment before bursting into laughter in my seat. He regarded me with a bemused expression, but I couldn't have cared less. Was he asking me out on a date? Seriously? I thought he intended to fight for me, not to confess crazy things. After Kelvin gave me an odd look for a while, I gradually composed myself and wiped away the tears caused by my hearty laughter. He must be wondering why I found it amusing that he was inviting me on a date. I mean, he hadn't stopped giving me that "you're being silly" look. "So, is that a yes?" he asked with a grin. "No," I retorted, rolling my eyes. "Alright then, I'll just keep coming here for no reason." "No!" I exclaimed, and he couldn't help but smirk. "So, you agree?" he grinned. I let out a sigh. It's either I reluctantly agree to this silly date with him or endure his constant pestering and teasing about that night. His presence was a distraction that made it hard for me to focus. "Fine," I said, rolli
STONE HEARTED CHAPTER FIFTY-NINE
Anika's P.O.V I sank onto the couch, my hands covering my face as I stifled the urge to let tears escape. I refuse to cry over Kelvin anymore. Who does he think he is, toying with my emotions as if I'm some sort of plaything? I had never understood him since he returned after disappearing for five years. He used to act as if he hated me, avoiding me at all costs. I even begged him at one point, but he slammed the door in my face. And now he was attempting to mend things between us when I had long lost interest in anything to do with him. He was beyond belief. He even claimed he's staying to fight for our love. Right... He was delusional. Maybe he was still intoxicated from last night, the alcohol lingering in his system, clouding his judgment. *** Day one (1) "Mr. Jordan is in your office, he arrived before I did," Kathy rushed to inform me as soon as I entered the company. I halted in my steps and faced her, taken aback. "Why is he here?" I questioned, surprised. "I'm not s
