The toy...His eyes widened as he jerked back. “Binky!” His hands flew to cover his chest, but they couldn’t hide the bruises that coated almost every inch of his skin.A grimace formed on my face as my eyes trailed over the bruises. My heart sank when I saw the fading bruise around his face.“Who did this to you?” I questioned myself, my voice on the verge of breaking.“Is it only my face you care about?” A smile tugged at the left corner of his lips.“Of course not.” I threw a light punch at his hard chest. “What happened to you? Did you get involved in a street fight? How many were they? What did you do?” The deeper my heart sank, the more questions I bombarded him with.A slight frown creased his face. “I don’t want to talk about it. Just be glad I’m okay.”I sighed in defeat, knowing if Damon didn’t want to talk about something, he wouldn’t.He arched a brow. “What are you doing here?”I flung my hand behind my back, swinging my leg as I walked from his closet to his bedroom. “
The Toy.."Ariel," my mother called out, her voice fragile."No, it's me, Aria. Mummy, it's me.” I rushed to her side, taking hold of her hand. Tears welled up in my eyes as I felt her weak grip. My chest fluttered, but it felt mocking.Deep down, I knew she wasn’t looking for me. "See, Ariel has long hair; mine is short, Mummy," I said, my voice trembling with desperation and sadness.I gently stroked her hand, trying to anchor her to the present, hoping for a flicker of recognition. "It’s me, Aria," I repeated softly, searching her face.She frowned. "Why did you cut your hair? You looked prettier with it longer." Her hand rubbed my face with a tenderness that momentarily bridged the gap between her confusion and my reality.Her voice was soothing and calm, nothing like what I had imagined while reading her diary. She wiped my tears with her hand, wearing a warm smile that made me yearn for her acceptance even more.“It’s me, not Ariel,” I whispered, my voice trembling with pain.
The CEO..Driving through the city of Madrid, heading to a business appointment I had set with a famous club owner, I read the headlines.‘More business moguls investing after Damon Wesley, a business tycoon, invest millions of dollars in Zee-Tech.The headline celebrated my unparalleled investment skills, highlighting that every business I backed had never experienced a loss under my influence.My phone rang, and as I glanced at the screen, I saw it was my father. His authoritative voice came through the line. "Have you seen the news?""Uh, yes, sir," I replied, unsure what he was on about.Can you see how you lead and others follow? He said it with a chuckle, his laugh dripping with pride."Uh, yes," I replied, even though I still didn’t know where he was headed with this. His chuckle hung in the air, leaving me both curious and slightly apprehensive about the direction of the conversation."In the business world, I've made you a god among men," he chuckled. "You should be gratef
The toy ..Walking through the hallways leading out of the hospital, my arms could barely support my bag, the weight seeming to increase with every step.I barely managed to reach my car, my legs heavy with exhaustion. Driving off toward the bustling city, my eyes struggled to stay focused on the road. Everything replayed in my head over and over again, each memory a relentless reminder of the day's events. By the time I arrived home, I felt utterly drained, my body and mind begging for rest.I went straight to my room, tiredly shedding my clothes without care for where they fell. Walking into the bathroom, I craved the relief of a hot shower. The sound of water hitting the tiles was soothing, a brief escape from the exhaustion that had settled deep in my bones.Dressing as quickly as possible, knowing I was late for work, my movements were hurried and clumsy, a stark contrast to my usual routine. With no time to spare, I grabbed my bag and rushed out the door...Entering my offic
The CEO ..I got out of the car, the warm evening air hitting my face as I closed the door behind me. Before me stood a large, impressive club, its grand entrance illuminated by stylish lights. The building exuded an air of exclusivity and elegance; its sleek design was an attestation to modern architecture. I couldn't help but smirk as I took in the sight. "Well, well," I murmured to myself, feeling a mix of excitement and anticipation. Indeed, I was thoroughly impressed by the grandeur that lay before me.The bouncer kept unwelcome guests from entering, his imposing figure ensuring that only those invited could pass through the doors. I walked in, the atmosphere immediately enveloping me with its blend of luxury and sophistication. Shortly after, I was joined by Mr. Andres."Welcome, Mr. Wesley. I'm glad you could join us," he said. He stood tall, his legs slightly spread wide, and his chin held high. It was clear that he was proud of his club."Thank you, Mr. Andres. Your club i
The toy.. In the therapist's office, the serene atmosphere that once comforted me whenever I came here couldn’t ease the burden my heart was carrying.“Hi Aria, welcome back. I noticed you’ve missed a few sessions recently. Is there something specific that brought you in today, or anything you’d like to talk about?” Amelia stated as she settled down in her seat, her big jotter on her lap and a pen in her left hand.Swallowing hard, I sighed. “For some time, it just feels like something is hanging in my throat.”“I understand that life can get very busy, and it sounds like you’ve been dealing with a lot. Would you like to talk more about what’s been happening at work and in other areas of your life?”“I don’t even know where to begin,” I responded.“It’s okay to feel overwhelmed. We can start wherever feels most comfortable for you. Is there a particular event or feeling that’s been on your mind lately, or something you’d like to explore first?” Amelia encouraged me to ponder aloud.
LUCY..As I unwrapped my sweet and tossed it into my mouth, I opened the door leading into the room. The soft glow of dim lighting and the soothing aroma of essential oils assaulted me, messing with the taste of my sweet. Before my eyes was my mother, lying on her stomach on the massage table, her eyes closed, and a look of peaceful relaxation on her face. The gentle hum of calming music filled the air, blending seamlessly with the rhythmic motions of the massage therapist's hands gliding over her back."You sent for me?" I asked, stepping into the room. My mother opened her eyes slowly, a serene smile spreading across her face."Yes, dear," she replied gently. "Sit down," she said. "I want information on how things are going between you and Damon."I tucked my chin to the floor.She sighed at my silence. "That means nothing's changed. I can’t believe I raised such a failure.""Honestly, I can't believe how much of a failure you've become. You’ve disappointed everyone around you. I
The CEO..I sat with Zack and Tracy at our usual VIP spot at Greysville Lounge. I took a deep gulp from my cup, trying to quench the tension in my chest before I spoke up."You know," I began, catching their attention, "while we've been putting a lot of energy into Zeetech, I haven't forgotten about TNK Corporation. In fact, I've been working hard to boost and upgrade it as best as I could."Zack raised an eyebrow. "Oh? That's quite good.“Tracy nodded, sipping her juice. "That's impressive. Balancing three companies must be quite the challenge.""It is," I admitted with a smile, "but it's worth it. I believe in both Zeetech and TNK.”I turned to Tracy and asked, "How many shares does the Beckham family hold in Beckham Construction?""80 percent," Tracy replied, pouring her mixed-flavored fruit drink into a glass. "But after selling 20 percent, they should possess roughly 60 percent."Zack's eyes widened, causing him to choke on his drink. He coughed and spittered, struggling to reg
Lucy pov ...Amidst the lush greenery, the breeze sung a calm song to me. I sat on the bench watching other patients. They were all crazy. I scoffed and skimmed my hands on my patient outfit. I turned and faced Logan, who arrived a few seconds later. “It’s been ages.” Logan smiled. “I wanted to get red roses, but you said you love yellow flowers." He handed me a bouquet of yellow roses.I smiled and accepted it. “How’s your sister?” I faced him. “Tell me you have stopped smoking.”It’s been a long time since I had a conversation with the outside world. I had no family and no friends ever came to visit. It was nice to see him.Logan chuckled. “I have stopped smoking.” His green eyes gleamed beneath the yellow hues of the sun. “And for my sister.” He paused and clenched the edge of the wooden seat. “She didn’t make it.” His voice softened.“I am so sorry.” My chest tightened. I knew how much he loved his sister.“But I opened a bar.” A wide smile formed across his lips. “When you g
Lucy ..(This chapter contains violence that might disturb viewers. Viewers' discretion is advised.)The news had already spread like wildfire. Damon hadn’t said anything, nor have I; people could only wonder what happened that led to us canceling our wedding a day before. My friend had asked, and I told them that I ended it after discovering Damon wanted to absorb my company just like his father did to other companies.Leaning back on my office chair, I sighed. I was this close to having him. I jolted up as the door opened. “There’s a meeting with the board of directors,” Tina announced. “Now?” I raised a brow. “Why?” She adjusted her glasses. “Yes, Ma’am. I really don’t know. But all the members are around.” I sprang to my feet. The clicks of my heels echoed. My heart pounded. How come I wasn’t aware of the meeting? Sweat swathed across my palm.Opening the door, my eyes fell on the seven members—they were all here. It was hard for them to gather together, except something v
The toy ..I dragged the last luggage down the stairs and placed it at the door. I was tired of being his toy. I was stupid to think that we would end up together. I had enough savings to start up my life. I need to run away from Manhattan, from New York. I need to move far away, to another place.I glanced around the apartment; so many beautiful and ugly memories; both of them haunted me.Opening the door, I gasped as my eyes fell on Damon. I held the tears that welled in my eyes. My heart twisted yet fluttered. Pain and relief fought to dominate my chest—neither won.His eyes fell on my luggage, and he frowned. “Where are you going?” What is he going to say to me? No, stay here and watch me get married to another woman. I rolled my wet eyes. “I’m leaving Damon.” I tried to bolster my voice, to show resolve.He inched closer and shut the door behind him. His beautiful amber eyes burned into mine. The eyes I had loved so much, that had caused me so much pain. Now one of my babies
The CEO..I climbed the stairs, each step feeling as heavy as the weight pressing down on my heart. Pearl had handed over the remaining 10 percent of the company shares to me, knowing that once the engagement and merger were finalized, the Wesley Corporation would likely dissolve Beckham Construction. The certificate was cold in my hands, but it felt meaningless now.As I passed by Lucy's room, the sound of her soft chuckle drifted out, followed by her mother's voice. I glared at the door. The thought of me spending the rest of my life with her was mentally gnawing. I was doing this for the child; once the child is enough, I'll get a divorce and just focus on my child. The memories of my childhood after my mother flooded in—just me and my father. "Damon isn’t around, right?" Mrs. Beckham asked. "Are you sure he is?"I was about to walk away, but the question glued my feet to the floor and, like a magnet, pulled my ears to the door."He isn't," Lucy replied, a note of excitement bub
The toy ..Tears streamed down my face, warm and bitter as they traced the curves of my cheeks. The room around me was silent like it was holding its breath, waiting for me to break.And I did.I muffled my sobs, pressing the back of my hand against my mouth, trying to keep it together, even though no one was around to witness. My elbows dug into my thighs as I leaned forward, staring at the two red lines on the pregnancy test. They glared back at me, mocking me. I shook my head, refusing to believe it. This couldn’t be real. What now? My mind raced, thoughts crashing into each other like waves against a rock. Damon’s wedding was just two days away. Two days. Even if I told him, what would change? I could hear Mr. Brian's voice in my head, loud and clear. Men know who they want to marry, and they keep the others around just for fun.I had brushed off those words when he first said them, but now they are repeated. in my mind, each repetition drilling pain into my heart—I should ha
The CEO..The drive was perfect, the kind of perfect that only comes once in a long while. The wind whipped through my hair as the convertible glided down the winding road, the sun casting a golden glow over everything it touched. The expression on my father when I testified against him in court felt like an award—a medal.Opening the door to my house, my gaze fell on Mrs. Beckham and Lucy.Mrs. Beckham stood in the center of the room, her presence cold.My smile faded, “Mrs. Beckham,” I greeted her with a curt nod. Mrs. Beckham was the female version of my father, so I spoke, a knot formed in my stomach as her presence gnawed at me.She didn’t return my pleasantries. Instead, she placed a crisp white envelope on the burly wood table, her eyes boring into mine. “Open it,” she instructed, her tone strict and firm. I hesitated for a second before crossing the room.I hardened my gaze as I snatched up the envelope, the paper cool and smooth against my skin. I tore it open and pulled
(This chapter contains violence that might disturb viewers. Viewers' discretion is advised.) The CEO . . I had changed into another outfit as I sat on the bed in my room. I constantly rubbed my hands, although they were clean. I could still feel Zach’s blood on my hand. How could I lose control? How could I hurt him? I smacked my head with my hand, letting out a grunt. Tracy trudged in. She only kept thinner and paler. “How are you doing?” “How is Zach? Is he up?” My fingers fidgeted. “No.” She tossed a file to me. “That’s the rest of my company.” “Why are you giving me?” Tracy’s expression softened. “Damon, I can die any moment. I need to leave my company with someone competent.” A weak smile stretched her lip. “Now let go and take your freedom from your father.” She gripped my hand, a failed attempt to pull me up. My chest tightened; this heart of mine had experienced too much pain. Another gloominess lingered at the mention of her dying any moment. I was too
The CEO . .Lying on the bed, I felt the sheets beneath me, my eyes closed, yet my mind was restless, buzzing with haunting images I couldn’t escape. Binky's tears haunted me; her face burned into my thoughts. But it was my father’s smile that truly kept me awake—the coldness, the quiet satisfaction he always had when things went his way. My hand gripped the bedsheet, twisting it, hoping it could ease my pain— but nothing.I couldn’t shake the thought—if only I’d been better, if only I’d been stronger if only I could’ve been more than this... this puppet he so easily manipulated. But I wasn’t. I was nothing more than a piece on his board and moved around to suit his game. The bitterness of it tore me from the inside out, choking with helplessness. If only I could turn the tables and make him pay for all of it. I wasn’t that person—not powerful enough, not anything enough.Stumbling to the closet, I flung open a drawer, my heart racing as I reached for the revolver inside. The c
Toy..I sat in the large, imposing courtroom. The air thickened with tension, but Nope still hung over, hoping Justice could be served. The murmurs of spectators seized as the proceedings began, leaving the shuffle of the papers. My eyes fixed on Damon’s father, who stood in the defendant box. Occasionally, he would stare at me and flash a smile that aggravated me. His words still rang in my ears, the way he casually told me how I looked softer than Aria outside the courtroom. I clenched my fist, hoping he would rot in jail for eternity. Mr. Jackson stood at the defendant's box. His eyes constantly darted between me and Mr. Wesley. My chest was tight like I was carrying the weight of the world on my chest. The flutters in my stomach were so grave that I might have developed stomach cancer. I sighed, hoping Damon’s threat should have walked in. Damon had messaged Mr. Jackson once he confessed to Mr. Wesley. He would protect him as Mr. Wesley would be powerless and be behind bars.