I went to my room, sat on the bed, and placed my hand on my head a bit to figure out what had transpired that evening.My thoughts were then disturbed by a soft knock on the door. "Come in," I said, without looking up. The door opened and closed quietly. "Hey, it's just me," Ryan's voice came before he entered the room. "I, uh, wanted to check on you after that unpleasant situation earlier." I finally looked up to find him standing uncertainly by the door. I managed a tight smile. "I am alright.”Ryan let out a heavy sigh, running a hand through his hair "Sophie, I'm sorry you had to deal with that uncalled-for hostility," he said, looking apologetic. "Alex is usually so calm and composed, not...whatever that was." I waved off his apology, trying to act casual. "Don't worry about it. I have dealt with far worse than a few harsh words in my time." Ryan's brows furrowed with concern. "That is no excuse for his behavior, though. You should be treated with decency at the very least.”
I was at my workstation, repeatedly checking the time. It was well past closing time, but Alex hadn't emerged from his office for us to leave. Concern started creeping in. I decided to check on him, worried that something might be wrong. God forbid he was already dead or struggling, and I was just sitting there oblivious, thinking he was still working.I gently knocked on the door before entering. "Mr. Hernandez?" I called out but got no response.He was seated at his desk, eyes closed, motionless. Panic gripped me as I doubted he was even breathing. I hurried to his side and shook him firmly. "Alex???"His eyes flew open, and he glared at me coldly, his voice low and stern. "Get your hands off me."I stepped back, flustered. "I'm sorry, sir. I thought something was wrong.""Something was obviously wrong," he snapped, his jaw clenched tightly.A knot formed in my stomach as dread washed over me. "What's wrong with you, sir?" I asked tentatively.With a dismissive wave of his finger, h
I froze when I heard that. Melissa was planning to move in."What do you mean?" Alex asked, his eyes widening in surprise."I'm moving in. I would like to monitor things more closely.” Melissa said with a resolute look on her face."You can not do that!" Alex exclaimed, shaking his head."Why not? If she can live here, then I should be able to as well. Besides, we'll be getting married soon," Melissa argued, her hands on her hips."Thank goodness you said 'soon.' Why don't you wait till we get married before you consider moving in?I hastened and dashed to the room before any of them reached the stairs.The following morning, I went downstairs but no one was in the living room. Deciding to enjoy some fresh air, I stepped outside and encountered Ryan jogging."Hey, good morning, Sophie!" he greeted, jogging over to where I stood."Good morning! Keeping fit, I see," I replied with a smile."What else would a man who wants to stay in shape for the ladies do?" he joked, and we both chuckl
There was no way I was getting into that office before him because he was already far ahead of me. So, I quickened my pace, determined to arrive shortly after him.I entered the office, slightly out of breath, to find him lounging on the couch. He didn't offer any instructions. He had said specifically that we had a client call, but so far, he has not done anything about it.There was an uncomfortable silence and I was left standing close to the couch, at a loss for what I should do next. Finally, he spoke up, his voice low and pensive."What is your plan, Sophie McDermott?""Plan?" I queried, my forehead wrinkled in a frown. “Well, I do not get your question.”And in one swift motion, he got up from the couch and began to stalk me, step by step. With every step that was being made by Alex, I subconsciously retreated one step backward until my back was against the wall. Cornered, I tried to look away, but he cupped my face and turned it towards him so I could not escape his burning ga
We finally returned home after what felt like an extremely long wait in the restroom. Dawson excitedly ran to my mom, proudly showing off all the toys we had gotten and eagerly telling her about the game we played."What kind of game was that?" she asked, her brow furrowed with confusion."Mommy's little game," Dawson replied innocently."Okay, my dear. Why don't you go play with your new toys?"As soon as Dawson scampered off, my mom turned to me, her expression stern. "You had my grandson hiding out in a public bathroom because of some game? What in the world were you thinking, Sophie Marie?"I launched into storytelling mode, making sure I didn't omit a single detail of what had happened. I was able to notice that she was worried when I narrated to her the near incidents where we nearly got caught and had to flee.“Gosh, that was really close,” she muttered softly and then sighed deeply, “I can’t even begin to imagine how you must have felt."Mom, you really have no idea. My heart
I couldn't believe how disrespectfully I had spoken to Alex. It was like some negative force had temporarily taken over my mind and mouth. I shook my head, appalled at my behavior.Losing this job seemed inevitable after that ugly scene. Surely there was no way in God's good grace that Alex wouldn't fire me for how I had spoken to him. Part of me wondered if I should try apologizing and beg for one more chance. The other part felt it might be useless.I was feeling very restless on my bed. I could not sit down and couldn't fathom what to do next. In desperation, I fell to my knees beside my bed and cried to God for an opportunity to change, swearing that if one were given, I wouldn’t squander it.Sleep evaded me that entire night. I must have checked my email hundreds of times, waiting with dread for the termination notice to arrive. But it never did. My phone never left my tightly clenched hands as I stared blankly up at the ceiling until morning light filtered in.When I finally dra
“Yeah, how did you know?" Ryan echoed."Uhm, uhm..." I scratched my neck awkwardly. "I overheard him mention it on a phone call from work days ago, so I thought baking a cake would be a nice gesture to thank him for being a good boss." I forced a chuckle, hoping my lie was convincing."Oh, how thoughtful!" Ryan gave my shoulder a friendly pat."Baby, I definitely have to make this up to you. Let's go out to the club and celebrate properly," Melissa purred, running a hand along Alex's arm."Thank you, Sophie," Alex said simply, before turning to Melissa. "There's no need to go out. I don't want anything too loud or hectic. We could just do a small thing here at home."“What exactly can we possibly do in this house? That would be so boring!”Feeling the tension rising, I thought it appropriate to excuse myself. I moved to the fridge to take a bottle of water, the reason I had come downstairs in the first place."Where are you going young lady?" Ryan called out, playfully grabbing my arm
"Leave your house?" Ryan let out a boisterous laugh, slapping the table. "Bro, this is our house, and I'm not leaving until…”Alex's nostrils flared, his jaw tightening. "Until you've thoroughly humiliated me in front of my employee? Shown everyone just how little respect you have for me or my home?"Ryan's smile faltered, confusion etching across his features. "What's all this about, Alex? I have never disrespected you.""You claim to be here for me. To spend time with me." Alex leaned forward, his voice low and laced with venom. "But tell me, how many times have you actually done that? When was the last time you made an effort to connect with me as my bro, rather than just chasing after the next pretty face?"Ryan's gaze flickered towards me, and I felt my cheeks burn under the weight of Alex's accusation. "Bro, you're a busy man, and I also have work that I'm pursuing here, but we get to spend time when we're free.""You get to spend time with who exactly? Me or her?" Alex's glare
My gut twisted as Alex and I entered the hospital. I couldn’t believe I was here to visit Herbert. The antiseptic smell hit me as we stepped inside making me wrinkle my nose."You okay?" Alex asked softly, squeezing my hand.I simply nodded my head. It was at this time that I saw my mother in the lobby looking so worried yet relieved to see me.“Sophie, honey,” she called out and ran to us. "I am happy you are here."Alex greeted her with a kiss on the cheek. "Hi, Mrs McDermott. How are you holding up?""As well as can be expected, Alex. Thank you for bringing Sophie."I frowned, crossing my arms. "Mom, why are you even here? I still don't understand."My mother sighed, her eyes pleading. "Sophie, I'm human before anything else. He has nobody to look after him. I'm just doing what's right.""He has money, Mom," I argued, feeling my frustration rise. "That can get him all the care he needs. What makes a man who didn't support you so important to you?""Sophie, I didn't raise you to hav
We just settled into a more comfortable conversation and the atmosphere gradually became more relaxed. They kept asking several questions about Dawson and couldn’t help smiling at his antics "He sounds like quite the character," Mrs. Hernandez said, her eyes twinkling. "Just like his father at that age."Alex chuckled. "I wasn't so mischievous, was I?"Mr. Hernandez lifted an eyebrow. "Son, you once convinced the gardener's boy to help you 'redecorate' my study with finger paint. It took weeks to get the walls clean.""Oh, I remember that!" Mrs. Hernandez laughed. "You were so proud of your 'artwork'. We couldn't stay mad at you for long."As laughter filled the room, I felt myself relax. Alex's parents were so different from the harsh, condemning individuals I remembered from years before.There was a faint knock on the door. Duncan entered, his face serious."Mr. and Mrs. Hernandez, I apologize for disturbing but there is urgent news," he said.Mr. Hernandez's smile vanished. "What
The day had finally arrived. Alex had informed his parents we were coming, and my nerves were in shambles. I put on a brave face for Alex, assuring him everything was fine, but inside I was a mess. When he went to get Dawson ready, I seized the moment to steady myself.My fingers shook as I dialed my mother's number."Mom, it's happening," I muttered. Today."On the other end, there was an unexpected rapid intake of air. "Oh, sweetheart. Are you ready for this?"I closed my eyes. "I have to be. For Dawson. For Alex.""And for yourself," Mom added gently. "You've carried this weight for so long. It's time to put an end to it all.""But what if history repeats itself? What if they-""Stop right there," Mom interrupted. "You're not that young girl anymore. You're a strong woman and an incredible mother. Stand tall, Sophie. Her words gave me strength, but I still doubted myself and I knew I needed one more boost. I quickly called Celine."Sophie! What's up? Everything okay?" Celine's voi
I walked into Alex’s house feeling weary but relieved after talking to my mom. The living room was lit with the faint sound of a cartoon playing in the background. Rounding the corner, I was immediately struck by the cutest sight.Alex was lying flat on the couch with Dawson dozing on his chest. I had to bite back a smile at how cute they looked in their matching superhero pajamas. Alex noticed me, his eyes brightening and a lovely smile spreading across his face."Well, well, look who decided to join us," he teased softly, careful not to wake Dawson.I rolled my eyes playfully. "Miss me that much, huh?""Always," Alex replied, his voice husky. He carefully shifted Dawson and stood up, crossing the room in a few long strides. Before I could react, he had me in his arms, spinning me around."Alex!" I laughed, wrapping my arms around his neck. "Put me down, you goof!"He set me down but kept his arms around my waist. "You’re not getting away that easily," he whispered, his lips inches f
The ride up to our suite seemed to take a lifetime. My heart was like a drum as I tried to come up with something to say to her but as soon as the lift doors opened, everything I had planned to say vanished. I lightly knocked on the door, a slight trembling in my palm. I felt a rush of emotions when the door opened with my mom at the other end "Mommy.” I choked out, giving her a tight hug. “I’m sorry.”“Sophie, my baby,” she whispered and embraced me closely. We both dissolved into tears.After a moment, Mom gently pulled back. "Let's go inside, sweetie," she murmured, her voice filled with emotions. When I entered the room, I turned to face her and really took her in. She appeared exhausted, her eyes red and swollen. "How are you?" I asked softly She gave a watery smile. "I am happy you are here. I have missed you so much.""You didn't call," I said, unable to keep the hurt from my voice.Mom reached out, taking my hand in hers. "I know you needed time and space to process ever
“Hey, toss it here!" Alex called out, waving his arms.Dawson laughed and aimed the ball toward Alex. With a slightly unsteady flight, he caught it by a dramatic leap."Nice throw, buddy!" he cheered, making Dawson beam with pride.I couldn't help but smile from my spot. Watching them play, hearing their laughter...it was a dream come true."You got this, Dawson," Alex encouraged as he rolled the ball back. "Just take your time."Dawson stuck his tongue out slightly, focusing hard on the ball. This time, his kick sent it flying straight and true."Goal!" Alex shouted, throwing his hands up in celebration. "We've got a little Messi on our hands!"Their game went on, there was clapping, laughing, and a little bit of ‘oh no’ when the ball went astray. Finally, it rolled to a halt right in front of me.“Okay, you two,” I said, as I grabbed it. “I believe that is enough for today”‘Mommy,’ Dawson complained, then his face twisted into a smile. "Did you see? I won!"Alex came over, ruffling
I woke up with a start, having Alex’s arm around my waist. I was confused for a second about what had woken me up. Then I heard it… raised voices from downstairs."Mrs. Hernandez, please," a stressed female voice pleaded. "I'm only following Mr. Alex's instructions. You can't just barge in like this!""I am his mother," came a sharp reply. "I have every right to see my son!"My heart raced. Alex's mom was here? I turned to face Alex, who was still sound asleep beside me. "Alex," I muttered, softly shaking his shoulder. "Alex, wake up. Your mom's here."Alex groaned, his arm tightening around my waist. "Mmm, five more minutes," he mumbled, nuzzling into my neck."Alex, I'm serious," I insisted, though I couldn't help but smile at his sleepy affection. "Your mother is downstairs, and it sounds like she's about to break down the door."Alex cracked open one eye, a mischievous glint visible. "I don't hear anything," he said, his lips curving into a grin as he started planting soft kisses
I tried to reply, but the words would not come out. Rather, I pressed my face against his shoulder and sucked in a quivering breath."It's fine. I'm here now," Alex murmured soothingly, his arms strong and secure around me.After a moment, he gently pulled away and scooped up Dawson, securing him in the back seat, and guided me into the seat next to the driver. "I do not want to go home," I murmured Alex's eyes met mine, filled with understanding. "I didn't have any intention of leaving either of you. “We're going to my house."As we drove, Alex glanced at me like he just remembered something. “What about your mom?”"She's okay, but I'd prefer not to discuss her at this time." Alex took out his phone and made a call to one of his housekeepers. "Sarah I need you to get some new clothes and toiletries for a child. Yes, as quickly as feasible.”The rest of the drive passed in silence. When we arrived at Alex's house, he turned to me. "Why don't you go freshen up? I'll take care of Daw
My mother's eyes softened as she looked at me. "James was a good man, Sophie. He raised you as his own because he adored both of us.” "That is the father I have known my whole life and will know for the rest of my days. This man here can never be my father," I sobbed, my voice trembling with wrath. "Sophie, I know you are upset but please try to understand,” my mother begged. "We made this decision out of love.""Love?" I scoffed. "You call lying to me for decades love?""I wanted to give you a stable family, a father who would be there for you-"I cut her off. "By erasing my real father from my life? By pretending Dad was my biological father?""It wasn't that simple, sweetheart. I was young, afraid, and alone when I found out I was pregnant-""So you just decided to trap Dad into raising another man's child?"I spat, regretting my words instantly but being too hurt to take them back. "Sophie!" My mom let out a gasp, her eyes filling with tears. "That wasn't the case. Your father..