Ricardo couldn't help but feel a sense of relief when he saw Alana's surprise entrance at the party. Amidst the tension and silence that had existed between them, seeing her put their differences aside for their son's special day filled Ricardo with admiration.“Ricardo, should I get the cake…it's almost time,” Chloe said, breaking the silence, she noticed how Ricardo didn't tear his gaze from Alana. He didn't answer her.“Ricky,” she placed her hand on his shoulder to get his attention, Ricardo shrugged her off and glanced at her.“What is it?” He asked confused. Chloe stared at him in disbelief. It seemed Alana's presence caused her to be invisible. “It's time for Santiago to cut the cake,” Chloe said with a faint smile, ignoring the sharp pain in her heart. Ricardo nodded and turned his gaze away. Alana's presence instantly brought warmth and joy to the room. Santiago's eyes lit up with excitement as he rushed into Alana's arms, showering her with affectionate hugs and kisses. The
Alana could feel the tension surrounding them, suffocating the once-cozy atmosphere of their shared space. Her heart thudded against her rib cage as her mind raced with a million unspoken words. Ricardo, his expression Stoic yet pained, broke the silence. “Why aren't you saying anything?” His voice held a mixture of frustration and confusion, as if he couldn't quite understand why she had withdrawn into her thoughts. “Should I leave, huh…so you can marry your little friend?” Replied and turned her head away from him, her eyes burning with unshed tears, and a glare etched across her face. The hurt, the anger, and the lingering doubt had taken hold of her emotions, making it difficult to find the right words to convey the depth of her feelings. “That's not what I…” Ricardo's voice softened, feeling helpless, he placed the file on the nightstand and reached for her hand. Swallowing the lump in her throat, she finally found her voice. “You…you just push me away whenever things get dif
The night was dark and windy, the sound of gusting winds and curtains brought a melodious atmosphere. Alana and Ricardo's love making continued in the sitting area. It felt like forever that Ricardo made love to his wife like this. He didn't want to let her go. He remained hunched over her, moving in deep-seated nudges that caused her inner muscles to flex greedily around his hardness."Mmm," her fingertips dug deep into his back as she pulled him to her. Wanting to feel him, invade her and leave nothing of her. The couch seemed too small for them but Ricardo wanted to make love to her in every way possible."T-that's…ahh…" The room erupted with Alana's giggles as another wave of orgasm hit her like a hurricane. Ricardo reached beneath her and found where they were joined, he used his fingertips to massage the moisture of her sex causing another orgasm to build in. Alana hung onto him. Her breathing came in quick with gasps, she had never felt so miserable yet satisfied. "Ahh," a low
Stacey looked at Julius, frustration etched across her face as she heard him rant and curse about Alana's decision to go back to Ricardo. She had grown tired of his constant whining and negativity. "Julius, you need to snap out of this destructive behaviour," she said firmly, her voice laced with irritation. "Instead of drowning yourself in alcohol and self-pity, think about the opportunity you had to make Alana yours. You let it slip away, but it doesn't mean it's over."Julius, intoxicated and overcome with bitterness, waved his hand dismissively. "Just leave me be, Stacey. I don't need your lectures. I'm well aware of what I missed out on."Stacey, undeterred, leaned in closer to Julius and spoke in a low, determined tone. "What if I told you there's a way to get back at Alana? To make her regret her decision and ensure she sees how much better off she would've been with you?"Julius glared at Stacey, sceptical yet intrigued by her words. He stayed silent, waiting for her to conti
Alana stood frozen, her heart sinking as she gazed upon the engulfed factory site. Flames danced menacingly, hungrily devouring everything she had poured her heart and soul into. The sweat-inducing effort, the countless hours of brainstorming and designing, now reduced to ashes. Tears welled up in her eyes as she thought about the clients she had promised impeccable designs to, now left empty-handed.Seeing her distress, Ricardo rushed to her side, wrapping his arms around her trembling body. He tried his best to calm her shattered spirit, whispering soothing words in her ear. "I know it hurts… look at me…" Ricardo held the sides of her face but she shrugged his hand away. "I know how you are feeling…this…" Ricardo tried to console her but it seemed his words kept fueling Alana's despair. They came back a while ago. Alana refused to talk to anyone. "This isn't the end…I promise you everything will be fine" Ricardo whispered but Alana averted her eyes from him.Alana trapped herself
As the realization dawns on Ricardo that Alana was missing, a surge of panic and worry flooded his entire being. He frantically reached for his phone and dialed her number, hoping for a reassuring voice on the other end of the line. However, his heart sank as call after call went unanswered, leaving him with a sinking feeling in the pit of his stomach."Damn it, Alana…where the heck are you," Ricardo hastily made his way to the garage, where his car was waiting. Thoughts race through his mind, wondering where she could be, what could have happened to her. The fear of the unknown pushed him to drive through the city streets in a desperate attempt to locate Alana.Time seemed to stretch as Ricardo's anxiety grew with every passing moment. But luck shone upon him as he caught a glimpse of a familiar figure walking alone on the sidewalk. Relief flooded his heart, and he quickly parked the car before rushing towards her, fear morphing into a mix of worry and relief."Alana," he called 9ut
"Umm, so when did you start this…how come I didn't know about it?" Alana fired Ricardo with questions as soon as they entered one of the rooms Ricardo asked her to have dinner. It had been two days since Ricardo gave her the most beautiful gift. It was surprising to know Ricardo had been preparing something beautiful without her knowledge. "Come here, it's a long story" Ricardo led Alana into a beautifully decorated space filled with twinkling fairy lights, soft music playing in the background, and a table set for a romantic dinner. Alana's eyes widened in surprise and her spirits began to lift."Please tell me this project didn't affect any company money," Alana remarked, hoping Ricardo didn't do what she was suspecting. Richard threw her a lazy gaze and shook his head."You've always wanted this…it's just a small gift," he said and pulled out a chair for Alana, and as she sat down, he leaned in and whispered, "This is just the beginning, my love. There's more to come.""Ricky," Ala
Stacey reclined on the plush couch in her opulent lounge, basking in the afterglow of her latest triumph over Alana. The victory had been oh-so sweet, and the anticipation of seeing the shock on Alana's face as she watched the news on TV sent shivers of delight down her spine. She had unabashedly stolen all of Alana's spectacular designs, and if given the chance, she would do it all over again without batting an eyelash.“Poor Alana, I'm sure you're crying in some corner,” Stacey let out a chuckle as she raised her wine glass midair. Joy filled her heart knowing she triumphed over her enemies. “Now you'll know who is the best woman,” she said sternly and took a sip of wine.Her celebration was abruptly interrupted when Stacey's servants informed her of an unexpected visitor.“Bring her in,” Stacey remarked as she awaited her visitor. A devious smirk played upon her lips as the woman entered the room, appearing visibly nervous in the presence of the notorious Stacey. It was none other
Alana and Ricardo snuggled in bed together, despite the doctor telling Ricardo to go to his room. He refused and wanted to be beside his wife. Alana was happy to be in the man's arms.“But it was untraceable…” Alana said with a frown. She was still confused about how Ricardo and the doctor managed to know exactly the poison Rocco used on Santiago. “We did a few tests, and apparently, he was injected with succinylcholine. It's a paralyzing agent that can cause respiratory arrest and is quite difficult to detect,” The elderly doctor explained while Ricardo nodded. “It's acquired through a black market…it's illegal and quite difficult to get the current,” Ricardo chimed in as well, and Alana was stunned. “I had Dario and Dennis watching Rocco. He met with some men who provided him with it,” Ricardo added, and Alana now understood everything. It seemed Ricardo knew something was wrong. She held on to him, knowing she was so lucky to have him.“We had the team male neostigmine, which rev
Ricardo slowly opened his eyes, blinking against the harsh hospital lights. The throbbing pain in his body intensified as he tried to sit up, only to be met with a firm hand pushing him back down. Startled, he turned his head to see Marcus standing by his bedside, a look of concern etched on his face.“Lie down, Ricardo. You're badly hurt,” Marcus urged, his voice filled with worry. Confusion clouded Ricardo's mind as he tried to piece together what had happened. Why was he in a hospital bed? And why was Marcus here? Then, like a bolt of lightning, a memory flashed in his mind, and he jolted upright, ignoring the protests of his body.“Alana! Where is she? Is she okay?” Ricardo's voice trembled with fear as he frantically looked around the room, his heart pounding in his chest. Before Marcus could respond, Ricardo swung his legs over the side of the bed and attempted to stand, his body protesting with every movement. Ignoring the pain, he staggered towards the door, determination in h
“You're shameless, forcing a woman to be with you,” Alana was in disbelief. By now, Rocco was only in his boxes. Threatening to have his way with her.“I've always loved you, Alana. I've always cared about you and wanted nothing but to give you the world!” Rocco made a low yell, the fact that he fancied her since the first day he set his eyes on her hurt him.“I'm a married woman!”“And I'm a man who deeply loves you…what does he have huh…what does Ricardo have that I don't…” he questioned. This time, his voice was low and held emotions. "I have money just like him, good looks, you name it…but he's nothing but a criminal!” “You're insane Rocco, you need help,” Alana refused to give in, despite how sorry she felt for him. She wouldn't forget that he poisoned a child.“I'm insane because I love You, you're the first woman who makes me feel this way…Alana please give me a chance,” Rocco's voice softened, he was nearly begging her to love him.“I don't love you… I love my husband…”“He's
At the sight of Ricardo. Rocco lost it as he grabbed Alana by the hair and pointed a gun to her head. Ricardo's eyes widened in horror as he watched Rocco grab Alana by the hair and point a gun to her head. The guests gasped in unison, and their faces pale with fear.“Let her go this instant!” Ricardo growled as he took a step forward. Several guards rushed forward and surrounded him with guns pointing at him. “Let my wife go Rocco!”“Oh, shut up Ricardo…no one wants you here,” Rocco said lazily as he gripped Alana's hair even more tightly. The cold weapon connected to her skull frightened her.“You're courting death!” Ricardo snapped, taking a step forward. His fists clenched at his sides, his eyes blazing with anger. But before he could take another step, many guards rushed forward, surrounding him with guns pointed at him. “Hold it right there, Ricardo,” one of them warned. Rocco sneered, his grip on Alana's hair tightening. “Oh, shut up, Ricardo. No one wants you here.” Rocco re
Rocco was in the master bedroom humming to a tune as he selected a tuxedo to wear. He couldn't hide his happiness. The room was filled with several boxes, and all were custom-made tuxedos specifically shipped for his wedding. The door creaked open without his realization, and it was Stacey who walked in.“Oh for goodness's sake…. Is this charade even necessary,” Stacey scoffed as she jumped over a box, careful enough not to hurt himself. Rocco heard her, but he was too overjoyed to pay her any attention. “You're really enjoying this, aren't you?” Stacey said with a smirk as she came to stand beside Rocco. He threw her a lazy glance and continued humming to a romantic tune.“Nothing will ruin my day, except a witch, like you,” Rocco retorted mockingly, Stacey rolled her eyes in annoyance and picked up a white tuxedo.“You should thank this witch for coming up with a brilliant idea to separate Alana and Ricardo,” Stacey smirked even more while Rocco's facial expression darkened.“One m
Alana and Ricardo were stuck in an intense staring contest. Ricardo didn't dare let her go as he kept her in his grip. She seemed unhappy as she fought to keep him off her.“We are married…whatever the problem is, I'm here to solve it,” Ricardo whispered desperately. She just walked out on their marriage without any explanation. “And don't you dare say you feel nothing for me…don't,” he murmured as he leaned forward, their faces an inch from each other. Alana tore her gaze from him, her breath coming in short.“Please, babe, don't do this…” Ricardo cupped her face lovingly and tilted her back until she was facing him. Her eyes were closed shut, and when she opened them. Ricardo saw that cold gaze from the day she gave him the divorce papers.“Let me go!” She made a low yell and managed to get out of his hold. Before he could hold her, Alana pushed him away.“I don't care what you think, but it's over between us…” she slowly walked to the sitting area and leaned on it. “Leave me alone
Alana stood by the window, her stunning red dress shimmering in the light. The strapless gown hugged her curves, showcasing her bare back and thigh through a daring slit. Her hair was sleekly pinned up, and diamond jewelry sparkled around her neck and ears. As she gazed out at the city lights, the cold breeze whispered across her skin, leaving a trail of goosebumps in its wake. Despite the chill, she exuded warmth and sophistication, a true vision of beauty at night.“Are you ready?” came a deep male voice. She didn't have to turn to know who it was. Her hands tightened on the purse she was holding. “It's our engagement at least smile,” it was Rocco who came into view, Alana was doing everything possible to keep her emotions in check. She glanced at Rocco with a stern gaze.“Rocco, stop this… I did what you asked…give me the rest of the antidote,” Alana said, her voice laced with emotions. Rocco stood beside her and shoved his hands in his pockets.“You are not entitled to make demands
Ricardo's heart raced as he parked his car in front of the hospital. He practically sprinted through the doors, his mind filled with fear and anxiety. His only child had been lying in that hospital bed unconscious and fighting for his life. The doctor's grim prognosis had shattered Ricardo's world, leaving him feeling utterly helpless.As he rushed down the sterile white hallways, he couldn't shake the feeling that the doctor was keeping something from him. How could Santiago suddenly be awake and eating when just yesterday he was on the brink of death? Ricardo's mind raced with questions, but he pushed them aside as he finally entered Santiago's room.The sight that greeted Ricardo stopped him in his tracks. There, sitting up in bed with a tray of food in front of him, was his son. Santiago looked pale and weak, but there was a spark of life in his eyes that Ricardo hadn't seen in days. Tears welled up in Ricardo's eyes as he rushed to Santiago's side, engulfing him in a tight embrac
Ricardo sat beside his son, and he held his son's hand. He watched him connect to various tubes and machines. His heart ached, and his son was always healthy, so what exactly happened to him.“Hey,” someone said from behind, Ricardo regained his senses, realizing there was another person in the room. It wasn't Alana, but Chloe. “He's going to be fine,” Chloe muttered softly as she walked closer to him. Ricardo only nodded and kept his gaze on Santiago.“We can try a different hospital… I have a friend who is a good doctor… I can ask for her help,” Chloe added when Ricardo didn't reply. The room was in utter silence. Chloe knew Ricardo was hurt. He loved Santiago more than anything. “I'll take care of that. You can leave now… I don't want my wife seeing you,” Ricardo said coldly. She knew Alana never liked Chloe. Having her around would make things awkward “Ricardo, I know I did some pretty bad things…trust me, I've changed, and I just want our old friendship back,” Chloe remarked wi