I shut my eyes to fully experience the feeling, expecting his lips on mine soon. Yet the seconds ticked by, and there was still no sensation. Slowly, I pulled myself together and noticed him busy scrolling through his phone. The embarrassment was overwhelming. Straightening myself in shame, I walked back to my seat with a flushed face“That would be all for now," he said without looking up, his voice devoid of emotion."Hmmm…" I mumbled, feeling like I didn't understand English, confusion etched on my features."You can leave. We're done for today," he repeated, this time meeting my gaze with a cold stare."Oh," I managed to say, my voice small and dejected."You seem disappointed," he remarked, a hint of curiosity in his tone."Me?" I asked, trying to sound casual but failing miserably."Yes, you. Like something didn't go as planned," he pressed, eyeing me suspiciously."No, no. I'm good," I lied, forcing a tight-lipped smile."What was that word again? You've gotten over me, right?"
There I was totally caught off guard by the bomb Ryan dropped. Melissa's jaw practically hit the floor, and I could feel her eyes burning a hole in me."Wait, what?" I squeaked, barely able to get the words out.“Would you please save me from going alone?” Ryan asked “Me?” I stammered my voice barely above a whisper. Real smooth, Sophie.Ryan nodded, a small smile playing on his lips. "Yes, you. Will you do me the honors of being my plus one for the charity ball?”I snuck a peek at Alex and boy if looks could kill, Ryan would have been six feet under. He looked like he'd just bitten into a lemon. He was glaring daggers at Ryan but kept his mouth shut.Melissa's eyes narrowed, and she let out a dismissive laugh. "Her? Are you serious, Ryan? She doesn't even know how to dress for such events."Ryan did not seem bothered. “I think she would do just fine. So what do you say, Sophie?”I felt as though I was in the hot seat. Half of me longed to take cover under the table, while the other
Once we got into the office, Alex sat down and started to work at his table, moving papers around in a more aggressive manner. I remained standing, wondering whether I should take a seat, say something or just disappear like a puff of smoke.Minutes ticked by, feeling like hours. There was nothing else to hear, except the sound of papers being shuffled, and the resentful drumming of the pen against the wooden surface by Alex. I couldn't take it anymore."Um, Mr. Hernandez?" I ventured, my voice sounding small in the large office. "Are you alright?"He whirled around, his eyes flashing with an emotion I couldn't quite read. "Why wouldn't I be?" he snapped, his voice sharp enough to cut glass. "What, you think because you got invited to some fancy ball as Ryan’s plus one, that's supposed to affect me? Make me unwell?"I felt my face flush hot with embarrassment. "No, no! That is not what I meant at all," I stammered, wishing I could rewind the last few seconds. "It's just... your eyes.
I blinked and felt my jaw drop in surprise. "He did?"Celine chuckled, "I gave this same shocked face when it happened.""Wait, let me get this right," I said, leaning forward with wide eyes. "The same Alex we know was always visiting and he paid your hospital bill. Are you serious?"Celine nodded, a small smile playing on her lips. "I am dead serious. He stopped by one day and handed me an envelope. When I opened it, I found out that all of my medical costs had been paid. I was surprised and mumbled, "I..." I had no idea," shaking my head in surprise. “He never even hinted at coming over or helping with expenses.”"He asked me not to tell anyone," Celine admitted, her expression softening. "But I think you should know, Sophie. He is a good man."I felt a slew of feelings churning inside me, including confusion, astonishment, and something more I couldn't quite identify. "But why would he do that? And why keep it a secret?" I asked, furrowing my brow.Celine shrugged, her eyes though
"Now," Celine exclaimed, her eyes flashing with mischief, "let Operation Goddess Sophie commence!" She pulled open her wardrobe doors, unveiling a variety of textures, colors, and designs. I gasped, my eyes expanding from the sheer variety. "Celine, your wardrobe is amazing! Are you sure you want to give some of these away?""Honey, these clothes deserve to be worn and admired," Celine said, already pulling out hangers. "And you, my love, are about to become a walking work of art." As Celine held up a spotless white button-down and cut blue pants against me, I noticed my reflection in the mirror. For the first time ever, I saw a confident professional woman. "Let’s cover the fundamentals,” Celine commented, placing various outfits on the bed. “A few interchangeable items for the office, some relaxed clothing for your free days, and of course, the perfect accessories to tie it all together.”"And remember," Celine added, handing me a sleek leather tote, "the right bag can make or br
As Ryan closed the door behind him, the office fell silent. Alex's eyes met mine, and for a brief instant, I saw something flicker in their depths that appeared remarkably like jealousy. But before I could process anything, he spoke in a low and intense tone. "Sophie, we need to discuss what is really going on here." My heart skipped a beat. What did he mean? And why did he call me by my full name? More importantly, was I ready for whatever was coming next?”I swallowed hard, trying to maintain my composure. "What do you mean?"He leaned back in his chair, his gaze never leaving mine. "This sudden change," he gestured vaguely at my new outfit. "The makeover, Ryan's reaction... Is there something I should know?"Before I could formulate a response, a sharp knock on the door interrupted us."Mr. Hernandez?" his driver’s voice called from outside. “The car is ready.”Alex closed his eyes for a moment, taking a deep breath. When he opened them again, his professional mask was back in pla
Alex's phone rang breaking the silence. He pressed a button and the call connected to the car’s speaker. Hey, honey," Melissa's voice filled the car. "Just wanted to let you know your mom is here. She has been waiting for you." "Thanks for the heads up. I will be there soon." Alex replied "Alright, see you soon. I love you.” Melissa’s voice chirped through the speaker, her words hanging in the air like mist Alex hung up without saying a word, the sudden silence more deafening than any words. I squirmed in my seat as the leather now seemed too warm against my skin. "I’d like to get out here," I blurted, my voice harsh and strained even to my earAlex gave me a perplexed look. "This doesn't look anything like my house." "I know," I admitted, searching for an excuse. "It's just... my mother called earlier and asked me to come over right away. There is an emergency."Alex raised an eyebrow. "What kind of emergency?"I took a deep breath, bracing myself for the lie that would come o
"Mother, do you know her?" Melissa asked, her brow furrowing in confusion.I could see the same bewilderment mirrored in Ryan's eyes. Just as I was about to fabricate another lie, Alex's voice cut through the tension like a knife."She does," he said, his tone flat and emotionless.Alex's mother straightened her spine, her face a mask of practiced nonchalance. "She works for my son. Why wouldn't I know her?"Ryan, his eyes darting between us, ventured cautiously, "You just seemed... surprised to see her.""I didn't know she would be coming home with him," she replied, her words clipped and precise.Melissa, ever the eager participant, chimed in, "She works from here." I felt a wave of irritation and clenched my hands at my sides. Who asked you? I thought bitterly. Why did you think you have the right to talk all the time?"She does?" Alex's mother exclaimed, her eyebrows shooting up. Then, turning to Alex with a mix of disapproval and concern, she added, "Alex, you brought in another
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..