...
Cecilia stood by the walk-in closet with a smile as I just stood speechless with the amount of clothing that have now filled up the whole empty racks, shoes, and bags that I didn't even pick was all packed, and right in the middle of the room is a table packed with beauty product, both for skincare and makeup.I have worked in the salon for years now, so I know expensive products when I see one,"I hope I did a good job, I wasn't given a particular order, I was told to go for the best," Cecilia said"This is perfect," I said still unsure of how to react to everything.I don't even have a preference in the first place, I never had any of this in the past, to begin with."While every maid in this home now answers to you, I was assigned specially to you ma'am," she said shyly with a smile, I nodded still uncomfortable with the ma'am title"I am Luna," I said with a smile"Luna? Like the moon" she said with a smile somebody actually knows the meaning, while in the countryside, I was made fun of, they called it name for oldies."I had a childhood friend with your name," She said with a smile, she had? I wonder why they aren't friends anymore, I never had friends, to begin with, I was the odd one out in every group, not that all the kids treated me badly I just self-isolated myself, they were mostly good kids, and some troublemakers as well."I have worked here for three years now and for the first time I was asked to prepare this room for a visitor, I couldn't believe a lady to be the visitor," she said, hmm, I suppose he doesn't bring women home"You have no idea how surprised we all are, I guess the rumors were lies, after all, master didn't just bring home a lady but a wife," she said happily I don't even know what to say to her, but if I were her I wouldn't be too chatty with my master's supposedly new wife but I guess I don't look that stern and bad for her to feel comfortable"What rumor?" I asked nosy enough"That master was gay," she said and grasped while I just stared at her in total confusion and bewilderment"The only visitor that sleeps over at master's house is young master Ethan so the rumor was that they were dating secretly but I doubted that, Young master Ethan was too flirty with women to be gay" she blabbed I have no idea who Ethan was but apparently she couldn't agree with the rumors because he was too flirty with ladies, her description of him sounds like he is a party animal rather than a woman casanova or maybe I just have a poor judgment of character."Hmm interesting" I let out, I might be greatly entertained by stories, who knows, I like to think I hate drama, well I do hate drama when it involves me or people around me but I enjoy watching a good soap opera on Tv which usually involves lots and plenty of drama."Oh I'm sorry I shouldn't have said that, my mouth will put me in trouble," she said holding her mouth with a panicked look, she finally realized she shouldn't be telling me this things"No, it's okay, non of that matters you can tell me anything you like, and every rumor I love to hear them, they are funny" I whispered the last word making her relax a bit, his rumors are non of my business, it's not like we are a real thing so they would never offend me."I can't believe he was just being faithful to you I was thinking he hated women" She went right into her discussion completely forgetting her initial panic, the spark in her eyes as she talked easily gives out she loves to gossip a lot and is probably one of the generators of these stories but I like her still better than Carolina."Carolina being his maid never says anything when she lives in his study," she said gaining my attention as if she just took a peek into my heart."Carolina is his maid?" I asked"Yeah, you know how I'm specially for you, she is like that for him, he hardly asks for her though, Nathaniel does almost everything for him, well except his teas and coffee, she serves him those" Cecilia explained,Maybe that was why she had a condescending tone, I don't want to rush to the conclusion that she is smitten by him but it's not far from happening, with the way he looks anybody can fall for him."How long has she been working here?" I asked"Carolina? two years now, I came before her" Cecilia said with a prideful smile.A knock on the door took the attention of both of us dragging us out of the closet, it was getting long overdue in the first place, Cecilia rushed to the door to know who it was while I sat at the leg of the bed trying to see who she was talking to at the door."Ma'am, Master calls for you" I can't possibly allow her to keep calling me ma'am right? The sound of it is weird,As I got up and approach the door only then did I notice it was Carolina coming to fetch me not Nathaniel, I smiled at Cecilia and made my way to his study with Carolina following me behind.As we arrived at the door while I stretched my hand to open the door, she walked over to me and pulled the door open without knocking, walking herself in while I just followed her behind, while I think that is disrespectful, who am I really to say anything, it's not my house neither is it my study.The image of him sitting on his desk, very identical to the first time I saw him, which was yesterday, crazy right? Just yesterday and now in this whole new situation, he had on his glasses flipping through a file and at the same time looking back and fro to the desktop in front of him."I didn't hear you knock," he said looking at Carolina who seemed taken aback for some reason"Oh, I am sorry sir, you requested I call her so..." she paused lowering her head with a teary look"Do not open the door without knocking next time" he said facing away from her to look at me, I immediately straightened my back, I don't even know why, his vibe is just too stern for some reason.I looked away first, not knowing what to say, and at the same time trying my best to act as naturally as possible and not to make his maid suspect we are not a real couple"You seem busy," I said approaching his desk while he went back to flipping the file in his hand, I watched as Carolina served him tea and went to stand beside him, he paused and observed the tea before dismissing her"You can leave now and call Nathaniel," he said not looking at her, I looked over at her as our eyes met, there was tension in the way she stared at me like I stole something from her, whatever it was you got the wrong person Carolina.Immediately she left, there was no use to continue pretending and forcing a subtle smile"You called for me," I said"Yeah I did," he said tossing me a box, hesitate I did open it.A ring, for a moment I was lost, taking in the beauty of the simplicity of the ring, wondering why I have this in my hand, why am I so mesmerized with this piece of circle.The snap of his finger brought me back to reality"huh?" I asked flustered or rather embarrassed as realization set in, beside him is another box which I suspect is his, we are supposed to be married after all, fake or not, it is only expected I wear a ring while on it."Back from dreamland?" he asked and I literally have to fight invisible demons to resist rolling my eyes at him"Thank you," I said putting the ring on, he raised his brow, then placed the file he was holding"Why are you thanking me?" he asked, his question explaining his face exactly"Not for the ring, I am thanking you for the shopping," I said, although that is genuinely how I felt, and what I wanted to say, but it felt heavy coming out from me.At least his face relaxed, I wonder if he ever smiles, he always looks ready to judge you or say the rudest thing ever, or he is wearing the most intimidating and scary face ever, maybe it's just because we just met."Here," he said completely ignoring what I said and passing me the phone laying on his desk"My number is saved on it already, from now on that is your phone and your number, pick whenever I call you no matter what," he said his voice and face neutral, something is complying about the way he talks that just makes you nod or just speechless, maybe it's because he is rich, he just says things, how can I thank him if he is soo stuck up and I am not a people pleaser, I love to fight and I hate disrespect but at the same I am thankful, how can that even be possible.Why am I even acting like he is just doing this out of goodwill, I just signed out to bear a child for him.Should I just come clean and tell the truth, maybe he can help, he seems rich enough, maybe he is just as bad, I am in a state of Dilemma right now."I hope you really know what you are up against Luna" he suddenly said scaring me,"Yes I know," I said watching as he got up from his sit Not knowing what to do, I did the same."What exactly do you think is going on now?" he asked turning around to face me with his hands tucked into his pants."I am here just to help you produce an heir," I said nervously, I don't understand, is he going to take me in his study, is that what the ring was for?"you are fully aware, it is your egg right?" he said his words driving straight to my heart while I nodded"As much as it's my child it's also going to be yours, your blood and egg after all and you would give up every right for the child after birth," he said his voice strong as he continued moving forward while I moved backward"You are going to carry him for nine months just to give him up like that" he continued, I know exactly what he was doing, and it was working, my heart tugging and pulling, and slowly it began to bleed, my eyes tearing up, it's been a while since I cried and I can't afford to do so in front of this man, he is just testing me, how willing I really am to live my child.The truth is I can't even think of it, I don't want to think of it, he mentioned in the contract that the child will have a mother figure which I assume is probably the woman he loves, I don't know, would I really have picked this for myself if I had this opportunity with the amount of money paid, I don't want to think I would do something like this, but I am doing It without the money too.I just want to survive, that's my justification for my action right now but what if I was not in a situation like this, that I was in the salon on a hot afternoon and a man in his thirties appeared with this offer would I still do this?...Narration...Walking into Maximilian's office, and the first thing that would stick out is the view. Floor-to-ceiling windows lined on one entire wall, offering a breathtaking panorama of the city below. The soft glow of the afternoon sun streaming in, casting a warm glow over the entire room.The office itself is very spacious and elegantly furnished, with a minimalist aesthetic that exuded sophistication. A sleek, glass-topped desk dominates the center of the room, flanked by two modern leather chairs. The desk is immaculately organized, Even the image of him sitting down there looks like part of the setting, with a matching set of pens and a leather-bound planner laid out perfectly on one corner. Behind the desk, a large painting in vivid colors hung on the wall, adding a splash of vibrancy to the otherwise neutral-toned decor. A bookshelf on the adjacent wall was filled with volumes on business, leadership, and entrepreneurship, each one meticulously arranged in alphabetical
(LUNA's pov)This is the most I have been Idle in like forever, it doesn't feel right, it's as if I am playing dress up, I am not one to stay in my room for long as well, so I found myself walking around, and this time I choose outdoor, As I walked around the garden with Cecilia following behind, I could feel the many eyes looking at me, they are not yet familiar with me around, and I don't feel comfortable or familiar myself, I just feel bored to the core already and it's not even a week yet."The garden is the most beautiful and peaceful part of the house," Cecelia said while I nodded, I am not much of a flower person, but I can admire and confirm to the beauty of it, I am more of an animal person,"There is just something romantic about gardens," Cecelia suddenly said blushing as she closes her eyes as if imagining something, I sure do admire her free spirit, it's adorable "I don't know about romance," I said awkwardly, "You can't say that, I bet you and Master has had so many r
...The silence between us was almost deafening but unlike me who looked everywhere but him, his eyes did not leave my body, how do I apologize when I am not in the wrong, if anything he should be begging me."You will have to meet my parents...""We should choose a pet name..." we both spoke at the same time "What?" he questioned "If I am going to meet your parent and act like we are a lovely couple like you said, then we need a couple name," I said trying to hide my embarrassment, I swear I hate this "Oh" he appeared taken aback, I mean I can't believe that I gave up easily too."What do you have in mind," he said getting up from his seat, he walked over leaning in on the desk "I don't know, something romantic perhaps," I said recalling Cecilia's words "Romantic" he repeated the word while staring at his hand, my eyes followed every of his movement for some reason, he has this force around him or an aura if I'm being precise, it draws you in and you have to fight yourself not t
...The overwhelming outpour of people with extravagant luxury showered at every corner of the hall if I hadn't seen Max's house and dwelled in it for over a week now, I would have passed out from seeing too much wealth."Leave it to my mother to outdo herself, somethings I wonder just how she manages to do it every time within a short period of planning," He said standing beside me, something with the way he spoke sounded polished and uptight, it felt like he suddenly had an English accent too, and again he doesn't look as happy, he looks more troubled than I do."Your mother must have an interesting taste," I said still looking around "You will be thrilled I promise," he said forcing a smile and then lending me his hand "I suppose I should start acting now," I said letting out an awkward smile which he returned thankfully, the attention of everyone in the room suddenly went to us both as the music stopped playing.I swear the more I looked the more Classical everything looked, eve
"I am Sabastine, may I have this dance?" he asked with a gentle smile, he looks straight out of a fairytale, his brown hair shimmering as the lightening from the hall cast upon him, his Emerald green eyes a huge contrast to his hair colour.I stared at him in complete awe forgetting to actually take his hand and return his greeting. After I finally gained back myself and tried to collect his hand, I was pulled away by a familiar figure, Maximilian, he had flames in his eyes as he stared at the man in question."Max," I said surprised by his action "you don't just take to anyone's hand" he snarled at me "Is that how you speak to your lady?" the young man in question said, still bearing his warm smile."However I speak to my wife is none of your business," Max said pulling me to stand closer to him "It's a shame you have him for a husband," The man said looking at me, I forced a smile "He is lovely to me," I said and watched as Max's face melted into a forced smile "Since he won't
...(Maximilian's pov)"Luna" I called her name and there was no response, "You are folding my cloth," I said again attempting to separate her from my body where she suddenly held onto, "Luna" I called lifting her face, her forehead blowing hot and her eyes near closing "What is wrong with you?" I asked her, she stared at me with her eyes opened halfway through, a mixture of confusion and panic, what was wrong "I'm fine," she said, her voice low, "Rest it's the alcohol," I said helping her lay on her bed, she immediately curled herself in bed letting out a soft groan.I can't let her sleep in that heavy gown, she needs to change, as I took the step to help, I immediately stopped myself, what would she think of me when she woke up, a perv who creeps on sleeping and helpless women perhaps? Why do I even care what she thinks about me?I found myself smiling as I stared at her, I have never seen anyone like her, or maybe my lack is social skills is stopping me from meeting more peopl
...(Luna's pov)"I will be at the dining area," he said walking away, I took a deep breath relaxing my nerves and trying to balance my pounding heart "This is for the best" I muttered to myself "Ma'am" I hear Cecilia's voice and I turned over to see her with Carolina "Master doesn't eat fish," Carolina said with a stern face "Shush" I hear Cecilia say to her, I really do not know anything about him but I wanted to impress him nonetheless, At the salon I have heard so many things from the women, and apparently good food helps put a man in a good mood.While I say good food puts everyone in a good mood I guess it works for men mostly."Carolina right?" I called her while she stared at me not even hiding the condescending look on her face, " Did he tell you personally he doesn't eat fish?" I asked her "I have served him long enough to know""Long enough to know better than his wife?" I asked again "Serve the food," I said again watching them carry it out, I think I might appear to
..."What do you mean?" I asked Cecilia confused "Master mentioned you being bored," she said excitedly, this was not what I had in mind when he said I should get dressed "I will show you every exciting place in the city," she said again, I didn't say I want to go out, to begin with, but I got ahead of myself "Where is he?" I asked angrily "Master is in his study," she said Angrily I walked to his study, on opening the door, he turned around with his phone in his hand close to his ears and a smile on his face."What?" he asked ending the call,"Go on," he said "I got a text from you" I began "I didn't expect to be shown around the city" "You said you were bored" he mentioned "That is not entirely a lie but we already established that it was an excuse as well," I said "What seems to be the problem now?" he asked me "I thought you asked me to dress because..." I paused too embarrassed to speak "You thought I will take you out?" he asked while I remained quiet "Why will you
(Luna)Just How long has it been? I have long stopped counting. Just kidding, it's been ages and I am no longer pregnant. Max and I were in for a lot of shock when the twins were born.We intentionally never went and asked for the gender but we were sure at the scanning all we saw was one baby. Even without expecting it, we were the happiest.My two beautiful angels, they still look nothing like me though, although Mother assured me they would pick up my features as they grow up. Speaking of Mother, I meant Max's mother, I am still working on the relationship with my mother. It did break me at a point, when I realized I myself was one of a twin. I couldn't remain neutral after learning that I was a twin and sadly she is no more. And both she and my father robbed me of the opportunity to bond with her. Not even once did I get to see her, neither did she know of my existence and you might have guessed who my twin was.... Yes, Lucy. The same Lucy Sabastine was in love with was my tw
(The End)"You love me?" was all I could muster as an overwhelming rush of happiness slowly seeped into my entire body. He was talking but all I could see was his mouth moving as his voice faded.It was an out-of-body experience as I tried to stand still, resisting myself from jumping up and down from joy."Say something please," I heard him say with a wild smile across my face."I don't know what to say" I answered truthfully as my cheeks continued to hit up."So does this change your answer?" he asked, attempting to hold my hands, his hands trembling as I held his sweaty hands. His gaze was mesmerizing. How come I didn't see all of this? It was all in front of me. Perhaps I hold him in such a high place that I think it's not possible for a man like him to feel something like love."You are Nervous," I said as he smiled awkwardly."Perhaps I am," he replied as I looked around again."You prepared all of this with Hervey?" I asked. All this while he went out with Hervey thi
I stood with my jaw on the floor, utterly stunned by the beautifully decorated scene before me. The backyard had been transformed into a romantic haven, with soft fairy lights hanging from the trees, flowers adorning the tables, and a cozy dining area for two set under a canopy.Slowly, my lips curled up into a smile as I took in the breathtaking sight. It was a vision of romance and thoughtfulness that took my breath away. I couldn't believe my eyes."Max?" I called him, taking a step forward looking around.As I tried to process this enchanting setup, my heart raced with anticipation. It felt like a dream, a fantasy brought to life in the most delightful way. The air was filled with a gentle breeze, and the ambiance was so perfect that it seemed almost surreal.Turning to Max, I couldn't contain my excitement. "What's happening?" I asked, my voice filled with a mixture of joy and disbelief. "Did you just set up a date for us in your own backyard?""Our backyard," he corrected, his e
...The sound of birds chirping became clearer as I slowly opened my eyes, I stretched my hand searching for a as I opened my eyes. He wasn't lying beside me.Slowly I rose from bed, scratching my eyes a bit disappointed that Mac wasn't in the room. I sat down watching the clock trying to figure out just for how long I had slept.The door swung open as I peeked forward to see Max enter with his back, a bit confused I watched waiting for him to turn around before I figured out he was carrying with him a tray of food. "Max," I called him with a smile as he approached."You are awake now?" he said, dropping the tray by the side as I looked to see what it was. Oatmeal with fresh berries and nuts."You wanted to surprise you," he said sitting by the bed with a smile on his face, I couldn't stop smiling as I looked at the food."Breakfast in bed?" I asked while he nodded proud of himself."You don't like it? " he asked, his voice carrying a hint of concern as he stared at me. "I made it wi
....I sat beneath a delicate canopy in the garden, surrounded by a riot of vibrant flowers that swayed gently in the breeze. The scent of blooms, sweet and intoxicating, enveloped me in a fragrant embrace. The dappled sunlight filtered through the leaves overhead, casting a warm and comforting glow.It was a serene haven, a sanctuary of nature's beauty. Each flower seemed to tell a story, its petals a canvas of colors that whispered tales of growth and resilience. Bees and butterflies danced from one bloom to another, their delicate movements adding to the garden's lively symphony.As I sat there, my fingers trailed along the soft petals of a nearby blossom, feeling the delicate texture beneath my touch. The world beyond this tranquil space seemed to fade away, leaving me with a profound sense of peace and contentment.The gentle rustle of leaves in the breeze, the chirping of birds in the distance, and the soft hum of nature's chorus became a soothing soundtrack to my thoughts. In t
...."We can come along," Harrison said as I stood by the door smiling as they all came outside to escort me."No, you are not coming along Harrison," Max said sharply at him while I chuckled."I hope it's a girl," Hervey commented, smiling as she stared at my tummy. Even without mentioning it to her she already knew that I was pregnant. By surprise in Harrison's eyes, it was obvious they knew nothing about it even Cecilia immediately looked at my tummy."Let's go," Max said, holding my hand as he led me to the car."I'm so sorry, I had no idea they were coming," he apologized while I shook my head."No I don't mind, I like them," I said as he frowned. Pouting his lips."They are friends and your family," I said as he nodded."They will stress you, especially Harrison," he said while I smiled."Am not stressed at all I like that they are here, your house is too big and enough to hold in more people, they would be of good company," I said "Am I not a good company?" he asked as I let o
I stood in the shower, the warm water cascading down my back like a gentle waterfall. The feeling of the water against my skin was pure bliss, and for the first time in a long while, I was in a remarkably good mood.I tilted my head back, letting the water drench my hair. As I ran my hand through the wet strands, I could feel the tension of the past days slowly melting away. The sensation of the water rushing over me was like a soothing balm, washing away the weight of the past and leaving me feeling refreshed and renewed.With each stroke of my fingers through my hair, I pushed the water backward, reveling in the simple pleasure of the shower. It was a moment of solitude and self-care, a reminder that life had its moments of serenity and tranquility.As the water continued to envelop me, I closed my eyes, savoring the warmth and the sense of well-being that it brought. The worries and uncertainties of the past were momentarily forgotten, and in that instant, all that mattered was the
...The strong hand across my chest wasn't bulging no matter how many times I stirred in my sleep probably waking him up countless times but he held me close making me use his other hand as a pillow.The sunlight has illuminated the room, it was morning already and my eyes hadn't opened to a dream or even worse a nightmare. Rather, the warm embrace and sweet smile from my man. Perhaps I am being too forward by calling him my man. But for as long as I am beside him. He is my man.My eyes couldn't leave his face as still was deep in his sleep, his eyes shut closed as I slowly raised his arm making him lay flat with his two hands spread on the bed.My eyes marveled at how tanned he had gotten with nice veins running all the way from his shoulder to his hands. I have never noticed this many details in his body. I cupped his chest sizing it to my small breast. If he continues to work out he might become my competition soon in the department of chest area.Slowly I began to notice the tiny
My breath hitched as I struggled to catch my breath. For some reason, the minty breath from him drove me insane as my hands traveled around my body roaming in the right places.Foggy, dizzy, lightheaded I couldn't stand still as my knees buckled. Finally, I ruffled his hair, and slowly his pacing began rougher and more urgent. As his tongue fluttered against mine. His hand pulled me closer and closer. No matter how much he pulled it felt like it was never going to be enough. If it were possible I wish to be inside him. Inside his skin.His cold body has turned warm in a minute, vulnerable I felt in his arms, the warmth from his body comforting like a safe coven.Pausing to catch my breath I couldn't control myself as I nibbled on his chin before I could stop myself. He nibbled on my ears, moving to my very sensitive neck. Again our faces apart as I stared at him my eyes barely opened."You feel so good," he murmured as I stared mesmerized."Just how long has it been, I have longed so