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27. Shadows of the past
Last Updated:
2024-12-31 00:51:03
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Second Chance For Him? 28. Duplicate of hers
James' POV"James I’ll probably be home late today. I’d like to spend some time with Linda since it’s been a while since we last caught up, I hope you're okay with that. See you for dinner later my love." Said my wife, Zoe, through the phone."See you later," I responded before ending the call.She reunited with her old friend after more than five years apart. I was done meeting with a client and was on my way back to my apartment when the vibrant scenery outside drew me in. I was here in New York for business matters and some vacation. It's been quite a while since my last visit, and I might swing by the Morgan Corp office, the one managed by my brother Keith."The weather is quite nice today, sir. Are you sure you want to head back to the flat so soon?" Dain asked.I gazed at the azure sky. I typically don't have the time to notice if the weather is nice or not daily, as most of my activities are confined within the walls of my office. Five-year marriage with Zoe Sinclair and she a
Last Updated : 2024-12-31Second Chance For Him? 29. Ex-husband
Clara's POV"Mommy do I look like a princess?" my daughter Layla asked, she wore a short light blue dress that matched my dress.We wore matching colors tonight and I'm relieved that she likes it. "Do I look pretty?""Yes, you are, sweetie. But remember that true beauty comes from here," I said, crouching down to meet your gaze, my hand resting over the place where the heart is. "Can you give Mommy a smile tonight?"She grinned widely instantly warming my heart. I led Layla out of the room where Keith was waiting.He smiled upon seeing us, and Layla instantly released my hand to throw herself into his hug. "Uncle!""Hi, sweetie." Keith lifted her with ease. My daughter eagerly displayed her hair, styled in a way I had arranged. "Woah. Did your mum do your hair?"Layla acknowledged with a nod. "Isn't she amazing? Her hands have the magic to transform anything into something extraordinary. I sometimes wonder is there something she can't do?" He enquired, casting a look that ignited a fee
Last Updated : 2024-12-31Second Chance For Him? 30. Who are you?
James’ POVThe place was minimalist and much simpler than what I imagined when Zoe told me about the hype this restaurant has. The food stalls are neatly arranged and can be spotted on nearly every corner of this city, so what makes this place special?Getting out of the car, I saw the restaurant was bustling with activity, filled with various visitors. There are even children and reporters eager to capture the scene. "The owner offers complimentary meals every Monday morning until noon for children from any orphanage, so they can enjoy as much food as they want." Dain shared what I didn't know as we walked in and observed the diverse customers.We had a table reserved at the back, slightly distanced from the hustle and bustle."Interesting. I think that's what made this place famous so quickly. Who's the owner?" Whoever it is, she appears completely unfazed by the prospect of loss. Either he or she doesn't plan to achieve the same level of profit as when they first opened this pla
Last Updated : 2025-01-01Second Chance For Him? 31. Keep you safe
Clara's POV"Clara it's me, James. There's no way you didn’t remember me."James's expression shifted, a flash of anger crossing his face as he processed my response moments ago.I kept my facade intact, ensuring he didn't notice the emotional chaos swirling within me right now.James was right about that one. How could I forget him when the memories of him have been a part of my life for the past five years? How could I possibly forget the man who was both my love and my greatest heartbreak?He took my hand when I stayed silent and asked "Where have you been all this time after disappearing with no trace like that? You chose to walk away from me."A bitter feeling washed over me; didn't he say he never wanted to see my face ever again? He said it directly to me five years ago during that night at the villa.So why is he behaving as if he prefers to have me in his life now?But I intend to leave everything about him behind, and I will not give him the satisfaction he has finding me aga
Last Updated : 2025-01-02Second Chance For Him? 32. No longer yours
James' POVI got back into my car and slammed the door shut. What Clara did wounded my pride so deeply. Did she find it amusing to act like she didn't know me and dismiss me like I was insignificant in her life? I was the one who gave aid when her uncle's firm was ruined. I save her family’s life!I knew Clara was merely putting on a show; she doesn't forget someone that easily. Clara knew my name and my reputation long before I had any knowledge of hers. She knew who I was even before we were married. Supposedly it should be me who didn't remember her at all after five years of being apart, not her.My appetite vanished, and my mood was entirely soured by Clara's actions tonight. That was when my phone's annoying ring shattered the stillness."What else now?"I could no longer mask my sharp tone; to hell with whoever reached out to me tonight."James, my love? Are you okay?"The gentle sound of my wife's voice smoothed away the lines on my forehead. "Where did you go? Why haven't y
Last Updated : 2025-01-03Second Chance For Him? 33. Remain
Clara's POVI just wrapped up dropping Layla off at her kindergarten. I usually head straight to TasteTales, but today I'm not feeling my best. It just hit me that I haven't had anything to eat since yesterday afternoon.I returned to my flat and made my way to the kitchen. I placed the toast in the toaster and cracked an egg into the pan. As I was preparing breakfast, the sound of the bell echoed through the space.Shortly after I heard the door open, I recognized it was Keith. He was the only one with access to this place. I heard footsteps coming closer, and then his voice called out to me"I'm here, in the kitchen," I exclaimed."Hey..." He lingered in the doorway, his expression weary as he gazed at me. "Thank goodness you're here.""Morning," I said with a smile as he settled into one of the chairs at the dining table. "Would you like me to prepare breakfast for you?""No need. You look much better than I thought, I'm so relieved. Do you know what happened?" He asked without furt
Last Updated : 2025-01-03Second Chance For Him? 34. Blushing
Clara's POVReturning to work, I was confronted by Diana, she was bombarding me with a barrage of questions regarding the events of yesterday. I let out a deep breath. I've said multiple times that it was nothing serious, but her curiosity just wouldn't quit."I don't know when you'll stop asking and let me do my work, Die."But she keeps talking. Now I get why her boyfriend sometimes calls her a nag."I heard heard Mr. Morgan reached out to him for a discussion. Yet he didn't do anything to that man like what he did to your other secret admirer ma'am. That's so unusual of him?""That man isn't my secret admirer," I said with a sharp edge.How can I explain to her that the reason Keith didn't confront him as he did with Lucas is that the man who came to me yesterday is his brother?"Can it be because Mr. Morgan is afraid of him?"I don't think Keith fears James, or vice versa. He has respect solely for his brother, and that's it."I don't know," I responded nonchalantly, avoiding any
Last Updated : 2025-01-04Second Chance For Him? 35. Jealousy
James' POVHave you ever had a moment when your good mood was abruptly shattered, leaving you feeling so repulsed that it almost made you feel ill? That's the feeling I had when I saw my younger brother with my ex-wife, looking so happy together. Keith took Clara's hand, holding it gently as she offered him a soft smile.He smiled like an idiot teenager in love.I never thought I would cross paths with them this evening, yet here I am. I saw them from the second-floor glass window of this restaurant where Zoe and I were set to enjoy dinner tonight."What’s interesting out there?" Zoe, My wife, wrapped her arms around me from behind, resting her chin gently on my shoulder.The moment her perfume wafted through the air, it turned me on. I shifted my focus from the unpleasant scene outside to my beautiful wife, her elegant neck and bare shoulders were so alluring.“Hey, what’s with the long face?” Is there an issue with the client?” She enquired, her expression reflecting worry.I shook
Last Updated : 2025-01-06
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James' POVI was glad to hear that Clara is back to her usual activities. It's good, it means she no longer feels down. Lily's in town, so I suppose that's why she was able to leave Layla. But when Lily gets back to LA, who’s going to look after Layla? Thinking about it, it's time to bring in a professional assistant for her. To look after Layla and ease Clara's responsibilities at home. I'm not sure if she'll go for it, but I'll bring it up with her later. Dain entered my study and said, "Sir." I intentionally asked him to come today. "Did you take Layla to school?" "Today, Mrs. Clara's cousin is the one driving her," Dain replied. I gave a nod. “Should I go to her school to pick her up this afternoon?” I think Clara has already asked Lily to grab Layla as well. Perhaps her cousin would like to hang out with Layla while she's in town. "No. Not necessary.""Alright, sir. Anyway, how was your dinner last night going?" Asked Dain.Oh, dinner last night. It was nearly flawless
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Lily's POVToday I spend my time with Layla, and we make an awesome team. We got up early and went for a jog. We headed home for a quick shower and then went cafe hopping until noon. Later in the afternoon, we kept strolling through the city park. We just got home in the evening as Clara was getting ready to head out for dinner with James. Before she left, I made sure to remind her multiple times that she needed to call me if she sensed even the slightest hint of his behavior. I recall how that man used to treat her and to be honest, I didn't want my cousin to have dinner with him by herself tonight. But if I went with Clara, then who would look after Layla? Also, Clara asked me to stay home and look after her daughter. I didn't have any other option."Auntie, did you just call mommy?" Layla asked as I stepped back into the TV room. I sat down beside her on the carpet. She was focused on her Lego, completely tuning out the cartoon on the TV. "Yeah, I did. I just made sure to be re
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Clara's POVEverything was going smoothly. James showed up, and I felt a wave of relief wash over me because we could finally begin our dinner before diving into the main topic tonight, to discussing the trip he wanted to take Layla on.But then the door swung open and Selena burst in. Yes, Selena. She's at the restaurant we were at. I’m not sure when she got here, but I didn’t notice her at all before. Her face was a mask of rage that was impossible to conceal. “You!" she snapped, pointing a finger at me. Her teeth clenched. "What did you do to Keith? How could you do all of this to my future husband?"Her voice trembled.I jumped up right away. Watching her on the brink of tears pulled at my heart, but just as I was about to reach out, Selena smacked my hand away forcefully."Answer me bitch!"Her words made James stand up immediately. And the atmosphere felt like it had shifted. Selena, who was saying something, fell silent under James's piercing gaze. She looked at him with des
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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
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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
