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115. Engaged to someone else
Terakhir Diperbarui:
2025-02-22 22:15:45
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Second Chance For Him? 116. The first meeting
Keith's POVClara was livid. She has a frown on her lovely face and looks so offended. I expected her to feel relieved and happy when I shared this with her. Because after such a long wait, we finally found a ray of light. And now we can put an end to whatever our status is now and move to a more serious level."What do you mean?" I didn't mishear her say I had a fiancé right? "What do you mean I have a fiancé, Clara?"She seems unsure. She went quiet, and I could tell she was trying to find the right words to respond to me. But then it dawned on me where her current assumption came from. A bit of annoyance began to bubble up inside me."Is it because you saw me with that woman yesterday and then you make the assumption I'm engaged to her?" I asked.Why is it so easy for her to jump to conclusions on her own?"You were having a dinner with her-""Yes. And my whole family is present as well. It wasn't me and her alone.""That's the point, Keith. Your family is holding the dinner to
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-02-22Second Chance For Him? 117. Falling in love
"No." She shook her head quickly. "This. You left this on your table."She then passed me something. It’s my wallet. It had my ID and cards inside. Damn. I can't believe I left it on my table like that. If someone else found it, they might use it for their gain. No, it’s not the money that concerns me; it’s the possibility that they might misuse it to do something harmful in my name and tarnish my reputation.I was being too careless."Thanks," I said as I took my wallet from her. My voice was back to normal, and I noticed the smile that had formed on her lips."Anytime sir. Have a nice day," With that, she turned around and was about to return to the cafe where she worked but I stopped her."Yes?" She walked back to me with a frown on her face. Gazing into those beautiful eyes, I found myself enchanted in just moments.Shit. Even with minimal makeup and no extravagant outfit, I could see just how beautiful she was. She looks so sweet, especially when she smiles."What is your name?
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-02-22Second Chance For Him? 118. His trust
James' POVEach second that ticked by was incredibly frustrating. I just couldn't stay put. I got up and started pacing back and forth to calm my head which felt like it was about to burst. Running a company was stressful enough and I've always craved comfort whenever I got home. For a long time, I always dreamed of a home that would let me relax my mind even just for a while.But lately, that feels hard for me to achieve. I'm not sure what was missing. Zoe was always being a great wife to me. She would check in on my day and always offer to give me a massage whenever she noticed I was feeling under pressure.But there was something she couldn't provide me while I was still living with Clara.I looked at my watch and frowned in irritation just as I heard the sound of a car engine. That has to be my wife, Zoe finally made it home. Walking over to the window, I see a red Lamborghini pull up in front of the gate of my house. The sight made me frown right away.Just as I thought I mistoo
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-02-23Second Chance For Him? 119. Sanity
James' POVHer eyes went wide. Shock adorned her face. Zoe stared at me in disbelief, as if she couldn't believe what she just heard from me. I pulled my arm away from her touch. Which made Zoe even more surprised because I had never refused when she touched me before. “You must be joking.” Zoe said. She might think I would take back my words but unfortunately, I wouldn't."Don't make me repeat what I said, Zoe." I reminded her. "I gave you trust all this time but you broke it. Will you also refuse and just confirm that my suspicions are true?"Zoe pursed her lips for a moment. Then she looked at me, her eyes filled with unmistakable pain. "The trust you're talking about is a basic thing that you should have with your partner. I don't owe you anything just because you trust me, James."Watching her look at me with such pain made my heart feel like it was being crushed. I always try to keep her smiling and free from pain, but now I was the reason for that hurtful look on her face."Yo
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-02-23Second Chance For Him? 120. Mother
James’ POVI let out a sigh of relief and settled into the sofa as I got home. My house is empty now, Zoe is gone and I feel satisfied. I didn't wish to see her here now, and I felt like I didn't want to see her ever again. Enjoying the moment, I closed my eyes to neutralize the jumbled emotions within me. But the moment I shut my lids, the memory of when I saw Clara and Keith earlier flooded my mind.Why did they both go together?Didn't Keith already talk to Selena? Selena is a childhood friend of ours, and my mother and I had planned to introduce her to Keith. They used to date in junior high and high school. And even though years have passed, I'm sure it won't be impossible for love to grow between the two of them again.Keith is supposed to be at Selena's apartment today because I know she invited him. But why did he out with my ex-wife instead? Once again, I've let myself slip and let my brother get his hands on Clara again.Glancing at my watch, it was half past two in the morn
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-02-24Second Chance For Him? 121. The mastermind
James' POVFeeling that there's no point in talking about this any longer, I get up from my seat. But my mother put her hand on mine."Where are you going, James? We haven't even talked about this yet." She met my eyes with a pleading gaze, trying to make me sit back.I was never expecting that Zoe would get to my mother the moment I told her to leave. She must think that was the best decision since my mother will support her no matter what. Among the other families, my mother is the one who accepted Zoe with open arms since the first time I introduced Zoe to them.They both quickly became close to each other. My mother used to be a model before she met my father, that one thing she and Zoe have in common made them both quickly connect.Since I married her five years ago, I've noticed Zoe's dedication to trying to win over my family, especially my mother. Their connection has grown significantly. At first, I appreciated it, but it also led her to meddle more frequently in my househo
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-02-24Second Chance For Him? 122. Dating
Clara's POV"Please tell me what brings such a big smile to my beautiful cousin's face?" Lily asked as she saw I could no longer keep my smile under wraps.I tried to hide my smile but I failed. And now I must look crazy in her eyes."Clara, remember that you also haven't told me who that beautiful big bouquet is from? Do you have a boyfriend?" She asked."What? No!" Her question is reasonable. If I want to date, that's my choice since I'm single and of age. I'm still a bit embarrassed when she throws a question like that my way."Then?""It's from Keith, Lily." I finally answered. I turned my gaze, fully aware that she would tease me about this once she found out it was Keith who made my cheeks flush. I really just wish the ground would swallow me right now."Oh, so last night it was him you met? Why are you lied to me, Clara?" She asks her hand on her waist.I can't help but laugh; she looked just like Auntie Jena when she used to scold us as kids, especially when she acted like t
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-02-25Second Chance For Him? 123. The old family
Clara's POV"Please tell me he's okay?" Lily said to Auntie Jena over the phone. We're in an Uber now, heading to uncle's house.She cannot put down the phone, wanting to ensure that Uncle Thomas is okay. I can't make out Auntie Jena's response on the phone, but just by looking at Lily's expression, I can tell that things aren't great.Lily still couldn't stop crying. I sense that my tears are on the verge of spilling, but I just can't let myself cry right now. In a situation like this, one of us needs to be the rock to support the other. If I let myself down as well, then who will be there to support Lily?"Uncle will be okay," I said to her, I hope the little power my words have can at least give peace in her heart. “Please, you should have a hope in yourself.”"No, no. I'm not at the office right now. I'm on my way there, Mom." Lily said, "I'll be there soon." And then she turned off her phone.As soon as the connection dropped, Lily couldn't contain her sobs any longer. She look
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-02-25
Bab terbaru
Second Chance For Him? 216. Mother's request
James' POVThe night to have dinner with Clara has finally arrived. I spent three hours getting ready, feeling pretty anxious, searching for the right word to persuade Clara to go along with this trip. This would be a good chance for me to connect with my daughter and learn more about her. And a chance to resolve what happened between Clara and me. No, I didn't expect her to just forgive me so easily. I just expected her to be more open to me.'Good luck trying to win her heart.' Keith's words rushed into my thoughts, and once more, I felt disheartened. I grabbed my phone and chose to call Dain. He accepted it a moment later. "How's it going, sir? How's everything going?""I haven't even gone yet. Do you think she’s going to give me this chance or not?" I hate sounding like a downer.But I really need to hear from Dain because he was the one who noticed Clara's reaction when she got the invitation to her apartment yesterday. Clara gave her agreement the very same day. She texted m
Second Chance For Him? 215. Tale to share
Clara's POVWe headed to the airport this morning around eight and got there about thirty minutes later. I ensured we arrived on time so Lily wouldn't have to wait. Yeah, my cousin is alive here in NYC today. Lily mentioned it to me in our call just yesterday, saying she planned to surprise me."Clara!"I glanced over at the voice, spotting Lily rushing toward me. With a smile, I hurried over to her, and we embraced tightly. Lily wrapped her arms around me so tightly that I could feel my ribs nearly being crushed."Hey take it easy Lily! I can't breathe!" I coughed."Sorry. I’m just really excited to be here and see you again!" She exclaimed after we released our embrace. Lily then turned to Layla, who was standing beside me. She bent down to hug her too. “Hey sweetheart, it’s so great to see you again. You've grown so much." Lily asked when they let go of their embrace, "Do you miss me?" "Absolutely Auntie!" Layla exclaimed, "I've been waiting for you to arrive for so long, Aunt
Second Chance For Him? 214. What kind of devil?
James' POV"Do you think it's good enough? Do you think Layla will like it?" I asked Dain for his thoughts.Fuck. Why is it harder than I expected to find a gift that fits Layla? I think it will be easy. But I've been reconsidering how Clara has managed to provide everything Layla needed, and my daughter is certainly not missing out on anything.So, I need to choose something unique and special.Something that will bring her joy when she receives this gift I gave her. I just wanted to see her smile again, to wipe away the sadness. It was annoying to see her sad, and I just couldn't stand it. "Hmm, I think this might be a little too much, sir. And besides we have to wait a few more years until she can drive the car on her own?" Dain looked at me with a puzzled expression.He glanced at the picture of the pink Mini Cooper on my laptop with a raised eyebrow and said, "I don't think this is a good idea." I nodded and shut the website down. I might just hand over the car to her when she'
Second Chance For Him? 213. The place he deserves
Clara's POVNew York CityWe’ve been here for a week now since coming over from Paris. Even after that week, I still can't seem to get back into my work routine. I still feel anxious about leaving Layla alone like I usually do. My day starts with waking up, driving her to school, and then picking her up again when school is done.I just can't trust Dain to drive Layla anymore. James got us a bodyguard, but I said no. I just can't get comfortable with the idea of another stranger being close to my daughter, even if it's someone James trusts.I stepped into the apartment and shut the door behind me. Diana called earlier to say she would swing by after work, so I figured I’d prepare some snacks for her. "Layla you can change your clothes before grabbing a bite to eat. I'll whip up something for us to eat. Auntie Diana will swing by later too.""Okay, mommy." My daughter hurried to her room.In the meantime, I headed to the kitchen. I checked the cupboard and fridge to see what ingred
Second Chance For Him? 212. A vacation
Clara's POVThe following morning finally arrived. The gentle sunlight poured in through the hotel window. I stretched my body and, getting up, walked over to the window. I drew back the curtain and looked out. The view outside my room instantly woke up my tired eyes.'What a beautiful city.'Of course. I'm in Paris right now. The wide array of buildings featuring beautiful classic architecture, the balconies of the apartments lining the street, and the lively hustle of the street below create a lively atmosphere. I think I have become so accustomed to the rigid vibe of New York that being here truly amazes me.I know I’d have a better time if we were here on vacation instead of trying to rescue my daughter from someone who attempted to kidnap her. With a sigh, I made my way to the bed."It's time to wake up Miss Sleepyhead, we're heading back today. We have to catch that flight."Layla extended her limbs. She let out a yawn for a moment, and when she replied, her voice carried a lin
Second Chance For Him? 211. A better father
James' POV"Where is Clara?" I asked Arlo as soon as we got into the hotel. "She's in her room already, sir." I headed straight to Clara's room. I and Clara stayed in the same hotel but in separate rooms for sure. There’s so much I want to say to her right now. But the main thing was that I wanted to check in on her and Layla to make sure they were alright. When the police arrested the car where Layla was kidnapped, I didn't have the opportunity to check on her because I was too focused on Keith and Zoe.I got to Clara's room, but the door was firmly shut. I was just about to knock on the door when a thought crossed my mind—Clara probably didn’t want to be disturbed. Perhaps I should give her some space with her daughter.Following this traumatic event, she must be feeling hurt and deeply affected. Maybe she would like to have some time alone with Layla without any interruptions. I dismissed the urge to see or talk to her and turned and walked to my room, which was across from her
Second Chance For Him? 210. Reunite
Clara's POV"Mommy?"I quickly grabbed Layla from the car seat and pulled her in for a hug. She wrapped her arms around me in return. I caught her saying that I could have squeezed her too hard with how tightly I was holding her.But I was scared that if I loosened my arms around her, I might lose her for good."You finally arrived. But why do you have police with you?" Layla whispered gently as I gave some space.A wave of relief washed over me to see her unharmed. I, still caught up in my relief and still cannot believe that we were finally together again, didn’t respond to her. That's when Layla's next words grabbed my attention. "Why is one of them putting cuffs on Uncle Keith?" It was only at that moment that I understood what was going on around me.The police that arrived with us, surrounded the car. I heard a woman scream coming from the car. One of the police is taking Keith' out of the car. His hands are already gathered behind his back and is secured in cuffs.An overwhe
Second Chance For Him? 209. Arrest
Zoe's POV"Zoe, bring Layla along with you," With that, Keith turned and walked away, heading to the living room. I went after him right away. No. I really don't want to handle this fussy kid all by myself. Since we're in this together, he should be ready to pitch in and share the responsibility. I'm not going to let him walk away so easily. “Keith, hold on! Where are we headed exactly?” I reached out and grabbed his arm. "You didn't tell me anything."It really bothers me that he doesn't include me in the decisions he makes. "We have to leave right now. Arlo mentioned that James had arrived in this city. We have to leave now; he could take Layla from me at any moment."I scowled. Arlo's hanging out in the living room. From what I recall, that man has always worked with James. I'm not sure why he suddenly turned to take Keith's side and said that James was there. Something feels off, and I can't shake the feeling that this might be a setup. I need to warn Keith to be cautious be
Second Chance For Him? 208. His regret
James’ POV"I've been waiting for him to at least leave the apartment, but it looks like Mr. Keith isn't going to take the little girl out, sir," Arlo called me on the phone.I sealed my lips tightly. This isn't a good news. If that's true, how can we possibly get Layla back? Keith has set up strong security measures in his apartment. He even brought in guards for his protection. "Did he find out that I got here?" I asked.If Keith already found out I'm here it might explain why he is hesitant to leave his apartment. He could be hiding. But, how long he intended to stay in his apartment forever? Paris could be just a brief layover, and he might take off to who knows where next. I need to be aware of every detail regarding his movement."I don't think so, sir.""Is Layla okay?" I asked. Because that's the most important thing. To make sure Layla is alright."According to the report from one of the staff who regularly brings them food, yes. She spotted the little girl, and she was al
