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CHAPTER THIRTY NINE
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2024-05-13 17:20:11Related chapters
Second Chance At Love CHAPTER FORTY
I'm Sophie, Mr. Hernandez's assistant," I replied, trying to keep my tone polite and professional despite her scrutinizing stare.The woman's eyes narrowed as she looked me over again disdainfully. "Hmm, and you can't wait for him at the office?"I squirmed uneasily under her stare. "I'm just following Mr. Hernandez's orders. May I please come in? I'm already running late."She gave me one final disparaging look before finally stepping aside with an exaggerated sigh. I hurried past her into the house, quickly looking around for a couple of seconds before heading towards Mr. Hernandez’s home office.“Good morning, Ms. McDermott,” one of the housekeepers offered me a friendly smile as I walked by.”"Good morning," I replied shortly, increasing my pace. I didn't have time for pleasantries."Um, Mr. Hernandez asked that no one disturb him for now," the housekeeper called after me hesitantly.I paused mid-stride, turning back towards her with a frown. "Oh, is there a problem?"She offered
Last Updated : 2024-05-13Second Chance At Love CHAPTER FORTY ONE
Alex frowned as he looked over the pile of documents between us. "This proposal from PharrellTech for the Wilson Renewables Project is a lot more aggressive than I expected."I nodded grimly. "They seem determined to undercut us at every turn to try to score this lucrative contract.""Walk me through their pricing strategy," he said, mouth set in a hard line. "How are they able to come in so far below our projections?"Pulling up the detailed analysis I'd prepared, I clicked through the key slides. "From what I can gather, PharrellTech is willing to take an initial loss by slashing their Phase 1 implementation fees nearly in half."Alex's eyes narrowed. "Surely they can't keep up those razor-thin margins for the full multi-year rollout, can they?""That's the gamble they're making," I explained. "Get their foot in the door with Wilson at any cost. Then once they're embedded, they'll try to nickel and dime their way to profitability with endless boosted 'service fees' and 'consulting c
Last Updated : 2024-05-14Second Chance At Love CHAPTER FORTY TWO
I blinked, momentarily disoriented as I resurfaced from the memories. The harsh clang of Mia dropping an armful of files jolted me fully back to the present.She didn't even spare me a glance as she grumbled under her breath, gathering up the scattered papers with jerky motions."Mia..." I began hesitantly. She glared at me and rolled her eyes, waiting for me to continue.“Mr. Hernandez asked me to let you know that you’ll be accompanying him to the investor dinner tonight instead of me.”Her eyes widened in amazement, then quickly sharpened. “Is this a joke or something? Why would Mr. Hernandez want me there instead of you?""I...told him I wasn't feeling well," I admitted, the lie tasting like ash in my mouth. "He said to have you assist him at the dinner."Mia studied me closely for a long moment, likely trying to decide if I was lying or not. Finally, she seemed to accept my words as the truth, her lips curving into a satisfied smirk."Well, well. It seems Mr. Hernandez is finally
Last Updated : 2024-05-14Second Chance At Love CHAPTER FORTY THREE
Why was Alex texting me instead of being at the dinner? Had it gone that poorly, or was something else up?I turned my head towards Celine. "I have to go. Mr. Hernandez needs me.""Oh, there's no way you can go see him like this! Just text back saying you have a family emergency so you don't jeopardize your job.""You really think he'd buy that excuse? Let me just go. I can handle it.""If you say so," Celine relented reluctantly. "I'll have your dress laundered and drop it off at the office tomorrow. Thanks for the heart-to-heart, babe.""Anytime, and don't forget to call me if you even think he's going to start getting shady on you.""It's branded into my brain," she assured me as I managed to get up and leave the bar.The cool night air hit my flushed cheeks as I hailed a cab to Alex's place. I decided to try and get myself together during the ride, inhaling and exhaling deeply, and letting the breeze calm my nerves a bit. After a few minutes, I finally arrived at the house. It t
Last Updated : 2024-05-15Second Chance At Love CHAPTER FORTY FOUR
I rushed through the hospital corridors until she reached the desk. "I'm looking for Celine Roberts - where can I find her?"The nurse checked the computer. "Ms. Roberts is in the emergency wing, room 212. Just go down that hallway and it's the third room on your left.""Thank you," I uttered swiftly and raced in the direction given. My heart pounded as I spotted room 212. I took a deep breath and entered.Celine was motionless on the hospital bed with an IV inserted in her hand. Her face was injured and there was a bandage covering her head. My stomach dropped.A doctor in a white coat noticed me enter. "You must be Ms. McDermott. I'm Dr. Ramirez.""H-how is she?" I asked, trying to keep her voice steady.Dr. Ramirez's expression was serious. "Ms. Roberts sustained a concussion possibly from blunt force trauma to the head. Additionally, we noticed the broken ribs and internal bleeding which we managed to stabilize. She's sedated right now to allow her body to rest and recover.My min
Last Updated : 2024-05-15Second Chance At Love CHAPTER FORTY FIVE
The detective gave a firm knock before entering Celine's hospital room. He had a no-nonsense air about him as he addressed us."Mr. Hernandez, Ms. McDermott. I’m Detective Rogers, in charge of investigating the assault on Ms. Roberts. Let's get down to it - fill me in on what you know."Rogers pulled out a notebook, pen ready to jot down details. He fixed his gaze on me intently. "Ms. McDermott, walk me through your connection to the victim and how you became aware of this incident."I took a steadying breath. "Celine and I only recently became friends through working together at Mr. Hernandez's company."The detective gave a curt nod for me to proceed as he made some initial notes."A few days ago, I saw the first real signs of trouble," I went on carefully. "It was her boyfriend, Louis. I know it."Rogers' eyes sharpened at this, his jaw tensing slightly. "Did you directly witness him acting violently towards her?"Throat tightening, I pulled out my phone and queued up the unsettli
Last Updated : 2024-05-16Second Chance At Love CHAPTER FORTY SIX
I repeatedly called my mom but there was no answer. I considered going to the hospital, but it was late, and leaving Dawson home alone wasn't a smart move.I decided to text her, urging her not to leave Celine alone with the visitor and to confirm who that person was by showing the video evidence I had. Still, no response came through.Growing increasingly anxious, I began pacing back and forth, trying to reach her. Then a thought struck me - why not call the hospital directly? I quickly dialed their number."Hello, I need to check on the status of Celine Roberts," I stated urgently after the call connected."Alright, let me transfer you to her room," the person replied.I waited several minutes, tapping my foot impatiently but the call never went through to Celine's room. My worry went through the roof."What's going on? Hello?" I prompted when there was no update."It seems she may be out of her room at the moment," the voice said hesitantly."Out of her room? Are you kidding me? B
Last Updated : 2024-05-16Second Chance At Love CHAPTER FORTY SEVEN
I gently approached my mom after what seemed like hours. “You should go home and try to get some rest,” I suggested. “You have been through so much already.My mom shook her head adamantly. “I can’t leave. Not until we know Celine is fine.”I persisted. “But you will be no good to anyone if you’re exhausted. “I’ll stay here and they can update me on any developments. Reluctantly, my mom finally agreed. “Alright, but you have to promise to call the second you hear any news.”“Of course, Mom. I swear it,” I assured her giving her a hug. “Now please, go home and at least try to sleep for a couple hours.”I watched as my mom dragged her feet and made her way to the hospital exit. Now alone in the hospital waiting area, I tried to stay awake and alert for any updates. But my head began nodding despite my best efforts, jet-lagged from the emotional whiplash. I jerked awake with a start each time, silently cursing myself for succumbing to exhaustion.I didn't even realize when a new figu
Last Updated : 2024-05-17
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Second Chance At Love CHAPTER HUNDRED
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
Second Chance At Love CHAPTER NINETY NINE
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
Second Chance At Love CHAPTER NINETY EIGHT
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
Second Chance At Love CHAPTER NINETY SEVEN
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
Second Chance At Love CHAPTER NINETY SIX
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
Second Chance At Love CHAPTER NINETY FIVE
“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
Second Chance At Love CHAPTER NINETY FOUR
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
Second Chance At Love CHAPTER NINETY THREE
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
Second Chance At Love CHAPTER NINETY TWO
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..
