*Lexie’s POV*The after-party of Natasha's grand fashion show unfolds in a dazzling spectacle of lights, music, and jubilant chatter. The glamorous venue is alive with the energy of celebration as fashion enthusiasts, celebrities, and influential personalities revel in the success of Natasha's extraordinary event.Natasha herself, the epitome of elegance in her own creation, navigates the crowd with grace, greeting guests, and sharing her triumph with the world. She is so happy as Robert is with her, and he looks well, even with the bandages on his shoulder, he made sure to wear an elegant suit to match Natasha’s shine.Sussie, radiating in her fashionable attire, assists Natasha with the same charm. Laughter and joy permeate the air, a tangible celebration of Natasha's achievement.In the middle of the vibrant chaos, Noland and I find a moment to bask in the success of the night. The trials of recent events feel like distant echoes, replaced by the warmth of the present."Can y
*Lexie’s POV*I stand in front of Natasha's house, hesitating to ring the bell of the large countryside estate. My heart is racing, and my hands are shaking. I left everything behind in New York, desperate for a change of scenery and a break from my mounting problems. Natasha has always been my anchor, and I know she will understand.I take a deep breath and decide to ring when I catch Natasha running towards me already, as she opens the gate, I am engulfed in a warm embrace. "Lexie, my love! I'm so glad you're here!" she exclaims, her blue eyes filled with concern."Thanks, Tash," I say, my voice barely above a whisper. I am still a bit nervous, but I am happy to be here with her."Come on in," she says, leading me into her estate.A small golf cart comes to pick us up, I chuckle at the serious driver as he takes us to the main house and leaves us right in the front door. Grabbing my hand, Natasha drags me inside and does not stop until we are in the middle of a spacious living r
The door clicks shut behind me as I step into the lavishly decorated room Natasha has insisted is now mine. My eyes dart around, taking in the exquisite furnishings, the plush velvet chaise, the massive four-poster bed with silk sheets. This kind of luxury is foreign to me. I run my fingers along the embroidered throw pillows, inhaling the subtle scent of jasmine in the air. "So, what do you think?" Natasha asks eagerly from the doorway. I turn to face her, still stunned. "It's… incredible. But it's too much, Tash. I can't accept all this."She waves her hand dismissively. "Nonsense. Mi casa es tu casa now. Make yourself at home." I nod hesitantly. Natasha means well, but sometimes her extravagant lifestyle only highlights the vast differences in our upbringings. "Oh, before I forget, there's a gala at the museum on Friday that I must attend. Come with me?" Natasha tilts her head, eyes pleading."Thanks, but no thanks. Not really my scene." I try to keep my tone light. Crowde
*Noland’s POV*I lean back in my leather chair, steepling my fingers beneath my chin as I review the acquisition documents for the new development. Each clause has been carefully negotiated, every detail scrutinized to eliminate even the slightest margin for error.My phone trills, shattering the silence. “Daddy, can you find where I left the folder I asked you? I can’t seem to find it and I am already back home with Lexie.”I shake my head. “I will take a look around. I hope this information was not left on your uber drive.”The chances are thin, but she needs to be scared a bit in order to pay more attention. “I am sorry daddy.”“We will find it, talk to you later,” I sigh as I end the call and ponder about where she could have left that information. She asked me for one of my high-end estates to see if her company could rent it for events. I told her I could let her host events for free but she insisted on paying."The representatives from Pacific Trust will be her
*Lexie’s POV*My heart races as the limousine pulls up the winding drive of Noland Reynolds’ sprawling estate. After months of struggling to put the pieces of my life back together, Natasha has finally convinced me to join her at one of her lavish parties.Part of me craves an escape from my daily routine, but another part dreads the scrutiny of Santa Barbara’s elite. Their pitying glances and whispered gossip about who I am and what I am doing here at such a private event.Natasha gives my hand an encouraging squeeze. “You’re going to have a wonderful time. Everyone will be busy, and you will get a chance to meet some people and have fun.”I offer her a wan smile, unconvinced. What I am convinced of, though, is to not become an annoyance in her summer, so I will do my best to really have some fun.The limousine comes to a stop, and my breath catches at the sight before me. Fairy lights illuminate winding cobblestone paths, while strains of classical music float on the night air
The leather seats creak under me as the sleek Bentley glides along the winding coastal road. My heart thumps wildly, Noland's proximity setting my nerves alight.When his phone rings, I start to get anxious. Noland answers in a low murmur, tension etched into the lines of his face. His gaze flicks to me for a brief moment before he turns away, voice dropping further.My breath catches in my throat. Caleb. They are talking about Caleb.Panic bubbles in my chest as fragments of the hushed conversation reach me. ...dealt with...won't be a problem anymore...taught him a lesson. Each word is a blow, cinching my lungs in a vice-like grip.When the call ends, silence engulfs us. Noland's knuckles are white as he tightens his fists, his jaw clenched.I take a deep breath and brace myself for what is coming. "What does he mean by 'dealt with'?"Noland's eyes darken, stormy seas in the dim light. "It's nothing for you to worry about.""I disagree. This involves Caleb, so it involves me."
The image of Noland's captivating smile lingers, setting my heart ablaze with a mix of emotions, leaving me struggling to focus on the movie playing before me and Natasha. She seems to enjoy it, and I avoid making comments so she doesn’t notice I am not paying attention.No, my attention is on Noland. His touch, the warmth of his breath against my lips, the way his eyes darkened with desire—they haunt my thoughts, igniting a craving I've long denied. I think this all started that night, many years ago, when he held me close to him during that stormy night. The way he made me feel back then, I was never able to find someone that made me feel like that again. Not until now.A knock on the door makes Natasha pause the movie and we both turn to see Noland there. My heart is skipping a beat already.“Good afternoon ladies. How is the movie going?” He says casually.“Hi daddy,” Natasha is back on ‘daddy’ terms with Noland, which means their relationship is well. “The movie is nice, fun a
*Noland’s POV*Lexie's allure haunts my thoughts as I gaze into the crackling fire. The mansion is still, shrouded in slumber, yet her essence fills the space, my mind refusing to relinquish the memory of her touch, her scent, the softness of her skin beneath my hands. A fierce ache pulses through my veins, an unyielding need that transcends the boundaries of reason. Each moment we spend close to each other only serves to deepen my longing for her, my restraint wavering in the face of a desire I'm powerless to resist. I need to control myself. I need to realize that if I take her, I might damage her with my dark desires.Silently cursing my weakness, I rise and pour a glass of scotch, the amber liquid burning a path down my throat. Anything to dull the ferocity of this craving, anything to temper the fierce battle between duty and passion raging within. The clock ticks past midnight, then one, and still sleep eludes me. My thoughts fixated on the vision of having Lexie in my st
*Lexie’s POV*The after-party of Natasha's grand fashion show unfolds in a dazzling spectacle of lights, music, and jubilant chatter. The glamorous venue is alive with the energy of celebration as fashion enthusiasts, celebrities, and influential personalities revel in the success of Natasha's extraordinary event.Natasha herself, the epitome of elegance in her own creation, navigates the crowd with grace, greeting guests, and sharing her triumph with the world. She is so happy as Robert is with her, and he looks well, even with the bandages on his shoulder, he made sure to wear an elegant suit to match Natasha’s shine.Sussie, radiating in her fashionable attire, assists Natasha with the same charm. Laughter and joy permeate the air, a tangible celebration of Natasha's achievement.In the middle of the vibrant chaos, Noland and I find a moment to bask in the success of the night. The trials of recent events feel like distant echoes, replaced by the warmth of the present."Can y
*Noland’s POV*The harsh ring of my phone cuts through the tense air of the hospital parking lot, snapping my attention away from Lexie, Natasha, and the unsettling news about Eleanor. It's Chris, and the urgency in his voice is palpable."Noland, I've traced the location of the rental car," Chris says, his words punctuated by a gravity that sends a chill down my spine. "It's an abandoned building on the outskirts of the city. I am heading there now."I glance at Lexie and Natasha, their expressions a mix of determination and concern. "Stay here with Carol. It might be dangerous," I urge, my protective instincts surfacing.They exchange a glance before Lexie steps forward, her eyes unwavering. "We're not staying behind, Noland. Whatever's happening, we're in this together."Natasha nods in agreement, her eyes reflecting a determination that matches Lexie's. I hesitate for a moment, realizing the gravity of the situation. In the end, I concede. "Fine, but stay close, and do exact
*Lexie’s POV*The hospital's parking lot is a quiet backdrop to the turmoil brewing within me. Leaning against Noland's car, I scan the entrance for him. The busy steps of the people coming in and out of the hospital are numbing my senses. The cool afternoon adds an extra layer of unease to the already tense atmosphere. Natasha paces beside me, her vivacious energy subdued by frustration and worry.Carol is watching closely, she is vigilant and observing the surroundings, making sure we are safe.I place a comforting hand on Natasha's arm, hoping to ease the anxiety within her. "What if you try to think who this mystery woman is?" I suggest, my voice a gentle undertone against the distant hum of the city. "Maybe it's someone you had a fight with."Natasha shoots me a grateful look, but her uncertainty is palpable. "I have no idea who it could be, Lexie. I can't think of anyone I've upset that much."I nod and ponder about it, she is right to be upset and angry, and I would be to
*Lexie’s POV*The waiting room at Santa Barbara General Hospital feels oppressive, the tension in the air thick enough to suffocate. I sit next to Natasha, her leg bouncing nervously as we wait for news about Daniel. Noland stands near us, his imposing presence somehow reassuring even though I know he's struggling with his own turmoil. Carol paces back and forth, wringing her hands as she anxiously waits with us."Any news?" Natasha asks for the hundredth time, her voice strained."Nothing yet," I reply softly, trying to offer her some comfort. As much as I want answers too, seeing her so vulnerable is unsettling.Two police officers stand guard outside Daniel's hospital room, their eyes constantly scanning the area. They look stern and serious, ready to prevent any attempts at escape. The sight of them only adds to the anxiety weighing on all of us.Finally, a doctor approaches us, looking weary yet composed. "Are you here for Mr. Daniel Turner?" he asks, glancing at each of us
*Lexie's POV*I sit beside Natasha, our hands intertwined for support. Noland stands by the window, his imposing figure casting a shadow over the room. Robert sits on the bed, the nurse finishing some examinations of his arm. He looks good, healthier, more awake.The door clicks open and Sussie enters, her blonde hair shimmering around her face. She takes in the sight of us, her sunshine personality momentarily dimmed by the tension in the room."Hey, guys," she says softly, trying to sound upbeat despite the gravity of the situation."Hi, Sussie," I respond, attempting a smile."Sis," Natasha breathes, relief washing over her features. "I need your help with something.""Of course, what do you need?" Sussie asks, her eyes flicking to Eleanor, who sits in the corner, a disapproving scowl etched onto her face."Could you stay with Robert while I finalize the details for my show tomorrow? I can't focus on it with all this going on," Natasha explains, her voice cracking slightly.
*Lexie’s POV*I pace back and forth outside Robert's room. Lately I have started to worry about so many things, like the possibility that Thomas contacted someone and made that shooting, and if that is true, it means this is all my fault, amplifying my growing feeling of nausea. My vision blurs, and I have to grip the wall for support."Miss Montgomery?" A kind-faced nurse approaches me with concern etched on her face. "You don't look so good.""J-just a little dizzy," I stutter, trying to steady myself. My legs feel like jelly beneath me."Here, sit down." The nurse guides me to a nearby chair, her warm hand on my shoulder providing some comfort. "I can check your vitals if you'd like. Have you been eating? Drinking enough water?"I nod weakly, but my mind races. Sure, I've been stressed, but this feels different – more intense. The nurse raises an eyebrow, clearly not convinced by my response. "Have you considered the possibility that you might be pregnant, Miss?"My heart sk
*Noland's POV*I look at Lexie and Sussie, their faces filled with worry. I can feel my heart pounding in my chest as I try to maintain a calm demeanor for their sake. "Listen," I say, raising my hands slightly as if to steady them from across the room. "Chris and I are going to go to the police station to see what we can find out about this whole mess.""Are you sure that's a good idea?" Lexie asks. Her eyes flicker, reflecting her fear and concern."Absolutely," I reply with a conviction I don't entirely possess. "And I've asked Chris to assign a new security agent – Max – to keep an eye on both of you while we're gone. You need to be safe, I don’t trust anyone now."Sussie nods, her sunshine personality temporarily clouded by the weight of the situation. "Thank you, dad. We appreciate it."I walk out and shake hands with Max, as he has just arrived. Chris already filled him in about the situation. As I prepare to leave with Chris, a nagging thought enters my mind. "Have eithe
*Lexie’s POV*I sit beside Natasha in the hospital waiting room and hold her cold hand; she is not moving, she has tears running down her eyes but she stays still and emotionless. My eyes are fixed on Noland, who stands at a slight distance, speaking with Chris, Carol, and what appears to be a police officer. The tension in his posture is palpable and I can't help but feel a mixture of concern and admiration for the way he is handling things."Lex," Natasha says, her voice almost faint, "what if Robert doesn't make it through this?"I glance at her, taking in the worry etched on her face. Her blue eyes, which usually sparkle with mischief, are now filled with fear. I reach out, placing a comforting hand on her shoulder. "Natasha, he's strong. He'll pull through this. You know how stubborn he can be."She offers me a weak smile, but her eyes continue to fill with tears."Your dad is doing everything he can," I say softly, watching as Noland continues his conversation with the oth
*Noland's POV*As I step into my home, a wave of energy washes over me. Natasha, Robert, and Lexie are hunched over the dining table, poring over sketches and fabric swatches for Natasha's upcoming fashion show. My heart tightens as I watch Lexie, her hair falling in loose curls around her shoulders, her eyes focused intently on her work. She's been through so much lately, and the last thing she needs is more stress."Evening, everyone," I say, forcing a smile onto my face. The weight of Avery's betrayal presses down on me, making it difficult to breathe. Her actions have put Lexie in the middle of our differences, and I know I need to tell her, but not now. Not with everyone here. I don't want her to worry."Hey, Dad!" Natasha beams, looking up from the table. "We're just finishing up the last details for the show.""Everything looks great," I tell them, trying to sound enthusiastic despite the turmoil inside me. "I'm sure it will be a huge success. Great job to you all.""Than