Caroline’s Point of ViewKnoxx stands up straight, rubbing the back of his neck. “Caroline, I need some time to think about this.”I nod, crossing my arms. “I understand. You can take until the final round of the competition. But I want you to be clear about what I’m asking.”“Right. I get it.” He looks away, a hint of uncertainty in his eyes. “It’s a lot to process. I’ll think about it. Just give me some time.”“Time is all I can give you.” I take a deep breath, then step up. “I’ll leave you to it.”With that, I step out of his office, leaving him alone with his thoughts.When I get home, I check my phone out of habit. Almost immediately, I see it—the flood of notifications from social media, articles, and comments. My heart sinks as I notice Dolly’s name is trending again. Curious, I click on one of the links to see what the latest fuss is about.There it is—a flashy PR release with Dolly front and center, glowing in front of the cameras like she owns the spotlight. The headline scr
Caroline’s Point of ViewWhen I see Lisa standing at my office door, her face is flushed with guilt and worry. She’s clutching her phone tightly in her hand, eyes darting around like she’s looking for the right words to say.“Caroline,” she begins, her voice shaky. “I saw the PR release.”I already know what she’s talking about. The flashy article showcasing Dolly as the "most beautiful and talented jewelry designer." The way they paint her as some kind of creative genius, a rising star in the industry. And the photos—Dolly front and center, wearing the ruby necklace that Knoxx had auctioned for me.Lisa steps inside, her eyes filled with guilt. “I—I went to Dolly,” she stammers. “I tried to get your design back. I couldn’t just stand by and let her take credit for your work.” Her hands are trembling now. “But she fired me, Caroline. She threw me out without even listening.”For a moment, I can’t speak. My chest tightens with anger, but not at Lisa. No, my frustration is entirely rese
Dolly’s Point of ViewI sit back in my chair, scrolling through the comments on my latest PR post, feeling a rush of satisfaction. They’re calling me “the most beautiful and talented jewelry designer,” “the perfect match” for Knoxx. I see comment after comment about how Knoxx and I look great together, how we make such a powerful couple. I smile to myself, imagining how perfect my life will be once all of this falls into place. Each comment strokes my ego, making me feel like I’m exactly where I deserve to be.I lean back in my chair and close my eyes, replaying the last few months in my mind. Everything has been leading up to this moment. But it wasn’t always like this. There was a time when I almost lost it all.I had Knoxx wrapped around my finger, but back then, it wasn’t enough. I craved more. More money, more prestige. Knoxx was successful, yes, but there was another man. I met an old, rich, charming, powerful man—he had promised me the world. So, I left everything behind to be
Caroline’s Point of ViewThe stack of divorce papers stares at me from across the room. Every time I look at it, I feel the weight pressing down on my chest. It should be simple. Just sign my name, walk away, and finally free myself from the mess of being Mrs. Wayne. I’ve already made up my mind not to take a single penny from Knoxx or his family—not that I want anything from them.But it isn’t that simple.I’ve been telling myself for weeks that I’m ready to move on. That I deserve better. That I’ve had enough of Knoxx’s lies, his betrayals, and the toxic web his family has spun around me. And yet, here I am, frozen in place, unable to sign those damn papers.Knoxx sits on the opposite side of the room, his face unreadable as he scrolls through his phone. He’s been like this since I brought up the divorce—calm, detached, and frustratingly silent. It’s like he’s waiting for me to make the first move, to give up and walk away without forcing him to face any consequences.I glance at th
Caroline’s Point of View“If you’re so desperate to end thismarriage,” Knoxx says, his voice steady but with a faint edge of challenge,“then sell the beach house.”The words hit me like a slap. I freeze,feeling my chest tighten with something I can’t quite describe—anger,frustration, and an ache that cuts deep. Sell the beach house? The very thoughtof it feels like a betrayal to everything we once were. That house wasn’t justa place; it was where I had believed, even for a brief moment, that we could behappy.But now, standing here, I know that Knoxxdoesn’t understand what it means to me. But I can’t just walk away from it. Ican’t make it that easy.I swallow hard, my fingers gripping theedge of the table as I force myself to look at him. “I’m not selling it,” Isay, my voice quieter than I mean it to be. But I stand by it. That house isthe last piece of something real, something I’m not ready to give up.Knoxx’s expression shifts just slightly,amusement flickering in his
Caroline’s Point of ViewThe morning sunlight filters through thecar window as we approach the beach house. My chest tightens with anticipation,the waves of nostalgia already lapping at my thoughts. This house held so many memories—momentsI had carefully buried but now seem intent on resurfacing.As Knoxx parks the car, I take in thefamiliar sight of the house. Its pale blue shutters and wraparound porch lookjust as they did when we first arrived here after our wedding. The salty breezecarries the faint cries of seagulls, and the rhythmic sound of the wavescrashing against the shore fills the silence between us.Knoxx steps out of the car and moves to thetrunk to retrieve our bags. I stay seated for a moment, letting the memorieswash over me. Our honeymoon. I thought it would be the start of everythingperfect between us. Back then, I believed this house symbolized a dream—apromise of the life we would build together.“Caroline,” Knoxx calls gently, pulling meout of my thou
Caroline’s Point of ViewThe morning sunlight streams through the large windows of the beach house, painting the room in warm gold. I’m sitting on the edge of the bed, the soft breeze from the ocean brushing against my skin. Knoxx stands across from me, his gaze intent. There’s a vulnerability in his eyes that I haven’t seen before, and it disarms me just enough to let him speak.“Caroline,” he begins, his voice steady but filled with an undertone of desperation. “Before we go any further, I need to ask for something… something I know I don’t deserve.”I cross my arms, my guard firmly in place despite the lingering warmth of our shared memories from the day before. “What is it, Knoxx?”He exhales deeply, running a hand through his hair. “One last chance.”I blink, stunned. “What?”He steps closer, closing the distance between us, but I don’t move. My heart pounds in my chest, each beat like a warning bell.“I know I’ve made mistakes—more than I can count,” he says, his voice softening.
Caroline’s Point of ViewThe following morning, I wake up to the sound of waves crashing against the shore. The warmth of the sunlight filters through the curtains, casting golden streaks across the room. The events of the previous night replay in my mind—Knoxx’s promises, his touch, and my momentary surrender. A strange mix of regret and hope weighs heavily on my chest as I pull myself out of bed and head downstairs.The scent of coffee greets me before I reach the kitchen, and for a brief second, I assume Knoxx has made it. But as I step into the room, I freeze. Sitting at the counter, her back perfectly straight, is Dolly.“Good morning,” she says, her voice dripping with smugness. Her perfectly manicured nails tap lightly against the ceramic mug in her hand as she sips her coffee.“What are you doing here?” My words come out harsher than intended, the shock and unease coursing through me.She sets her cup down, her lips curling into a smile. “I was in the area and thought I’d drop
Caroline’s Point of ViewThe rhythmic click of my heels echoes against the marble pavement as I make my way toward the grand entrance of the 30 Under 30 dinner party venue. The glowing chandeliers spill light through the tall glass doors, illuminating the bustling street outside. The entire building exudes elegance and exclusivity, making me acutely aware of every second I’m late.I glance at my phone, its screen glaring at me with an unwelcome truth: 8:15 PM. Knoxx must already be inside. My stomach twists as I imagine him waiting, checking his watch, and wondering why I haven’t arrived yet.This isn’t how I planned tonight.The delay had been unavoidable. Lisa had insisted that I complete a design before leaving work. It wasn’t just the design; it was her tone—the unspoken expectation that only I could finish it properly. I wanted to be done sooner, but the hours had slipped through my fingers. Now, standing outside t
Knoxx’s Point of ViewA sharp ray of sunlight pierces through my eyelids, and I groan, turning away from the glare. My head pounds, the remnants of too much alcohol still sloshing in my system. I shift, but the soft sheets beneath me feel unfamiliar. Something doesn’t add up.Where the hell am I?The smell of faint perfume hits me, and my eyes snap open. My surroundings blur into focus: floral-patterned curtains, a dresser lined with delicate trinkets, and... the sight that makes my blood run cold—I’m in Dolly’s bed.Panic grips me like a vise. No, no, no. This can’t be happening. My mind scrambles to piece together last night. I remember coming home, drunk. I dreamed of her—her touch, her voice, the way she looked at me. I’m sure it’s Caroline… but now I’m here, and it doesn’t make sense.“Good morning,” a soft, saccharine voice purrs from the doorway.I wh
Caroline’s Point of ViewThe morning sun filters through the sheer curtains, casting soft, golden streaks across the bedroom floor. But the warmth of the light does little to ease the cold emptiness beside me. The bed is unmade, Knoxx’s side rumpled but unoccupied. My heart sinks as the realization hits me—he’s gone. Again.I sit up slowly, the events of the previous night replaying in my mind. His whispered “I love you,” the way his hands held me as if I were the only thing anchoring him to this world. It felt real. It felt sincere. And now? Now it feels like a cruel joke.“Knoxx?” I call out, my voice barely above a whisper. The house is eerily quiet. No response.Wrapping my robe tightly around me, I step into the hallway. My bare feet make soft thuds against the wooden floor as I search each room. The living room, the kitchen, his office—all empty. Even his car is gone.A lump forms in my throat as I stand in the middle of the living room, staring at the door. He left without a wo
Caroline’s Point of ViewThe sound of Knoxx’s car pulling into the driveway pulls me away from my book. I glance at the clock—past midnight. My chest tightens, a mix of irritation and worry bubbling to the surface.When the door swings open, Knoxx’s assistant steps in first, his expression apologetic as he struggles to support Knoxx, who is visibly drunk.“Mrs. Wayne,” the assistant says hesitantly, his voice low. “He had a few too many drinks at the dinner party. I tried to stop him, but you know how he gets.”My gaze shifts to Knoxx. His tie is undone, his shirt untucked, and his normally sharp eyes are glazed over. He’s leaning heavily on the assistant, mumbling incoherently.“I’m fine,” Knoxx slurs, trying to push the assistant away but nearly stumbling over his own feet.Before I can respond, Dolly’s voice cuts through the air. “What’s going on?”She appears in the hallway, her eyes narrowing as she takes in Knoxx’s state. Her expression twists in disgust. “He’s drunk?”“Very,” I
Caroline's Point of ViewI can feel the gaze of Knoxx on me because we are positioned near the door frame. He looks at me attentively, preparing himself for a battle. Not now, though – I don't want to make things get worse.I turn to Knoxx and say softly, “There is nothing go on, Knoxx. Adrian just help me. And thank you, Adrian, for your time tonight. It was…unexpected but appreciated.”Adrian’s easy smile returns, but there’s a glimmer of something more serious in his eyes. “Anything for you, Caroline. Always.”Knoxx's jaw clenches. He doesn't say anything, though. His fists clench at his sides for a brief moment, the tension there is obvious. Adrian nods at both of us before turning to walk away to his car, the silence that remains almost deafening.I turn back to Knoxx, meeting his piercing gaze. He opens his mouth as if to speak, but then he catches something in my expression. Whatever he sees m
Adrian’s smile widens, a glint of smug satisfaction in his eyes. “You left her alone, Knoxx. Someone had to step up and be the manKnoxx’s Point of ViewThe tires screech slightly as I pull into the hospital parking lot, my grip on the steering wheel tighter than it needs to be. My chest feels heavy, and my thoughts are racing. Caroline’s face flashes in my mind—the disappointment, the hurt in her eyes when I told her I had to leave. I’ll make it up to her, I promise myself. But first, I need to handle Dolly.I step out of the car, my suit jacket feeling heavier than it should. The fluorescent hospital lights seem to buzz louder than usual as I walk into the lobby, the sterile smell immediately assaulting my senses. I find Dolly in the maternity ward, lounging in a chair with her hand resting lightly on her stomach, looking perfectly calm. My irritation spikes.“What’s going on?” I ask, my voice sharp.
Caroline’s Point of ViewThe evening air wraps around me as I step outside the restaurant, trying to gather my thoughts after Knoxx’s abrupt departure. The ache in my chest feels heavier with each passing second, the humiliation of being left alone gnawing at my composure. I clutch my purse tightly, fighting back the sting of tears. But before I can decide what to do next, a familiar figure steps out from the shadows.“Adrian?” I say, startled.He’s leaning casually against a sleek car, dressed impeccably as always. His presence is both surprising and strangely comforting.He flashes me that easy smile of his, his eyes glinting with mischief. “Fancy meeting you here,” he says, straightening up. “What a coincidence.”My brows furrow, suspicion flickering in my mind. “What are you doing here?”Adrian tilts his head, feigning innocence. “Secret,” he replies with a tea
Caroline’s Point of ViewThe soft light of the afternoon spills through the window, warming the room as Knoxx’s voice pulls me from my thoughts.“I want to make it up to you,” he says, standing a few feet away, his hands tucked into his pockets.I raise an eyebrow, skeptical but answer with cold tone, “Make up for what?”Knoxx sighs, rubbing the back of his neck. “For being an idiot. For buying her that gift without considering your feeling… after I promise I won’t do things that will hurt you,” he says, his tone lighter but still earnest. “I’ve been terrible at keeping promises, Caroline, especially when it comes to spending time with you. Let me take you on a proper date.”A proper date. The words hit me with a mix of excitement and disbelief. A part of me wants to scoff at the idea—after all, how many times has he said something similar, only to leave me waiting? But another part of me, the one that still hopes, stirs with anticipation.“Are you serious?” I ask cautiously, narrowin
Caroline’s Point of ViewThe soft sound of the front door creaking open pulls me from my thoughts. I’m seated in the living room, my hands wrapped tightly around a mug of cooling tea. My mind replays Dolly’s smug smile as she flaunted that bracelet—my bracelet design, no less. When Knoxx steps inside, loosening his tie with one hand and carrying his briefcase in the other, I take a deep breath, bracing myself.He spots me immediately. “Hey,” he says, his tone casual as he sets his briefcase down. “You look like you’ve had a long day.”I set the mug down on the coffee table and fold my arms. “We need to talk.”His brow furrows slightly as he shrugs off his suit jacket, draping it over the arm of a chair. “Okay. What’s going on?”I stand up, unable to keep still. “Dolly showed me the bracelet you bought her.”He blinks, clearly caught off guard. &ld