Library
Maghanap
Home / Romance / THE LAST STRAW OF LOVE. / Chapter 23

Share

Chapter 23

Author: ONYINYE
last update Huling Na-update: 2025-01-04 05:57:59

** The Beginning of Forever**

The Cain Foundation had become a symbol of hope and progress, with Theo taking the reins of its latest initiative. The global youth network he envisioned quickly gained traction, connecting young leaders across the world with tools to enact meaningful change. Emilia and Alexander, now content to watch their son shine, continued to offer guidance and support, though their focus began to shift toward a quieter, more intentional life together.

As the seasons changed, so too did the rhythm of their lives. With the demands of the past behind them, Alexander and Emilia embraced the simplicity they had once only dreamed of.

One crisp autumn morning, Alexander surprised Emilia with an impromptu trip to the vineyard where their love story had truly begun.

“This place,” Emilia said as they arrived, her voice filled with nostalgia, “it feels like coming home.”

Alexander smiled, his hand resting on her back. “It’s where I first realized what you meant to me.”

They st
Locked Chapter
Patuloy ang Pagbabasa sa GoodNovel
I-scan ang code upang i-download ang App
Nakaraang Kabanata Susunod na kabanata

Kaugnay na kabanata

  • THE LAST STRAW OF LOVE.   Chapter 24

    ** The Shattered Calm**Life at the vineyard had become idyllic, filled with family, laughter, and the quiet joy of seeing their dreams realized. Alexander and Emilia reveled in their peace, their love stronger than ever. But fate, as it often does, had one last surprise in store—one that would test everything they had built.---An Ominous LetterIt arrived on a crisp autumn morning, delivered by courier directly to Alexander’s hands. The envelope was plain, the handwriting unfamiliar. His instincts sharpened as he opened it, revealing a single piece of paper.Mr. Cain,You thought it was over. But some debts are never truly repaid.Alexander’s heart sank. The letter was unsigned, but the meaning was clear—someone from his past wasn’t finished with him.“Alexander?” Emilia’s voice broke his thoughts as she entered the room. “What’s that?”He hesitated, folding the letter and slipping it into his pocket. “Just some old business correspondence,” he said, forcing a smile.But Emilia’s e

    Huling Na-update : 2025-01-05

  • THE LAST STRAW OF LOVE.   Chapter 25

    **A Legacy Redefined**The vineyard was alive with activity, its rows of golden vines stretching endlessly under the soft morning light. It was a special day for the Cain family—a day of reflection, celebration, and hope for the future. Friends, family, and supporters of the Cain Foundation had gathered to honor the culmination of decades of effort: the unveiling of their most ambitious project yet.---A Moment to ReflectAlexander stood on the terrace, overlooking the vibrant vineyard. He watched as guests mingled, sipping wine and enjoying the peaceful ambiance. Emilia joined him, her hand slipping into his.“You look lost in thought,” she said softly.“I was just thinking about how far we’ve come,” he replied. “This place, this life—it’s more than I ever imagined.”Emilia smiled, leaning her head against his shoulder. “It’s not just the life we built, Alexander. It’s the people we’ve touched, the changes we’ve made. That’s the real legacy.”He turned to her, his gray eyes filled w

    Huling Na-update : 2025-01-05

  • THE LAST STRAW OF LOVE.   Chapter 26

    **The Eternal Vine**The vineyard was quiet now, its once-bustling celebration faded into the stillness of night. The soft rustle of leaves in the gentle breeze accompanied the occasional call of an owl, a melody of peace that echoed the rhythm of Alexander and Emilia’s hearts. Life had slowed to a steady cadence, but with every beat, their story felt far from over.---A New BeginningThe following morning, the Cain family gathered in the main house’s sunlit dining room. Theo had stayed overnight, his energy filling the space as he laid out his ambitious plans for the vineyard expansion. Emilia watched her son speak, her heart brimming with pride.“So, here’s what I’m thinking,” Theo said, gesturing to a series of sketches spread out on the table. “We can dedicate a portion of the vineyard to sustainable farming techniques—things like agroforestry and water conservation. It’ll serve as a model for the institute and a way to contribute directly to the community.”Alexander studied the

    Huling Na-update : 2025-01-06

  • THE LAST STRAW OF LOVE.   Chapter 27

    ** The Eternal Bloom**The vineyard had become more than just a home or a business—it was a symbol of the Cain family’s journey, their love, and their resilience. As the years passed, it became a haven where dreams were nurtured, challenges were faced, and new chapters began. But life, as always, had a way of bringing surprises—both joyful and bittersweet.---A Growing FamilyOne summer morning, Theo arrived at the vineyard with his wife, Emma, and their two young children. The grandchildren had turned the vineyard into their personal playground, running through the rows of vines, laughing with carefree abandon.As Alexander and Emilia watched from the porch, their hearts swelled with pride and joy.“They remind me of Theo at their age,” Emilia said, smiling.Alexander chuckled. “Except Theo didn’t have an entire vineyard to explore. They’re growing up in a place filled with so much love.”“And so much history,” Emilia added. “One day, they’ll understand everything this vineyard repr

    Huling Na-update : 2025-01-06

  • THE LAST STRAW OF LOVE.   Chapter 28

    ** A Love That Endures**The vineyard remained the heart of the Cain family, a living testament to the trials they had endured and the triumphs they had celebrated. Every vine told a story, and every stone whispered a memory. Life had grown quieter for Alexander and Emilia as they stepped back, letting Theo and his family take on more responsibility. Yet, the vineyard’s rhythm was still theirs, a place where their love continued to thrive.---An Unexpected VisitOne crisp spring morning, Alexander and Emilia were enjoying their breakfast on the terrace when an unfamiliar car pulled into the vineyard. A tall, distinguished man stepped out, holding a leather satchel.“I wasn’t expecting anyone,” Alexander said, rising cautiously.The man approached, offering a warm smile. “Mr. and Mrs. Cain, my name is Richard Bellamy. I’m a historian specializing in family legacies, and I’ve been researching yours. May I have a moment of your time?”Emilia exchanged a glance with Alexander, her curios

    Huling Na-update : 2025-01-07

  • THE LAST STRAW OF LOVE.   Chapter 29

    ** The Final Harvest**The golden hues of autumn wrapped the vineyard in a warm embrace, marking the season of the final harvest. This year’s crop was abundant, the vines heavy with grapes that gleamed like jewels in the sunlight. It was a time of celebration and reflection, as the Cain family prepared for what would be a significant milestone—the 50th anniversary of the vineyard under Alexander and Emilia’s care.---The Anniversary PlansEmma bustled into the kitchen, her arms full of papers and samples. “Okay, everyone, listen up! The anniversary celebration needs to be perfect. I’ve planned a gala dinner, a guided vineyard tour, and a special unveiling of our L’Éternel Reserve.”Theo chuckled, wrapping an arm around his wife. “You’re more excited than the guests will be.”“Of course I am,” Emma replied. “This is a huge moment for the family. And for your parents.”Alexander, sitting by the window with a cup of coffee, smiled at the exchange. “It’s hard to believe it’s been 50 year

    Huling Na-update : 2025-01-07

  • THE LAST STRAW OF LOVE.   Chapter 30

    ** The Endless Vine**The vineyard stood as a living testament to the Cain family’s enduring legacy. Each row of vines whispered stories of love, perseverance, and triumph, stretching endlessly under the open sky. As Alexander and Emilia moved into the final chapter of their lives, the vineyard remained their anchor—a place where the past and future coexisted in harmony.---A Sunrise TraditionAlexander had taken to waking up early, long before the rest of the household stirred. Each morning, he walked through the dew-kissed vines, the golden glow of dawn casting long shadows across the land. On one such morning, Emilia joined him, her shawl wrapped tightly around her shoulders.“You always disappear before breakfast,” she teased, slipping her arm through his.“I like to see the vineyard wake up,” Alexander replied with a smile. “It reminds me of why we started this journey.”They walked in companionable silence, the sound of their footsteps muffled by the soft earth. Emilia glanced

    Huling Na-update : 2025-01-09

  • THE LAST STRAW OF LOVE.   Chapter 31

    **The Vine’s Promise**The vineyard thrived in the years that followed, a living embodiment of the Cain family’s journey—a place where the past whispered through the vines and the future blossomed with every harvest. Alexander’s absence was deeply felt, but his presence lingered in every corner of the estate, carried in the wind that rustled the leaves and the stories that bound the family together.Emilia, now the matriarch in every sense, embraced her role as the heart of the family. Though her hair had turned silver and her steps slowed, her spirit remained unshakable. She had become a beacon of wisdom and strength, guiding the next generation as they carried the family’s legacy forward.---A New PartnershipOne crisp morning, Theo called a family meeting in the sunlit dining room. Alongside him stood Emma and their eldest daughter, Lily, now a bright and ambitious young woman.“I’ve been thinking about the future of the vineyard,” Theo began, addressing his family. “And I believe

    Huling Na-update : 2025-01-09

Pinakabagong kabanata

  • THE LAST STRAW OF LOVE.   Chapter 124

    ** The Ghost in the Shadows**Milan, Italy – Isabella’s Instincts Take OverIsabella’s fingers tightened around her phone as she reread the message."He’s not dead. But you will be."Her breath was steady, but her pulse was anything but.Ethan noticed the shift in her expression immediately. “What’s wrong?”She handed him the phone, watching as his jaw clenched.“This is a threat,” he said.“No,” Isabella murmured, eyes narrowing. “This is a warning.”Ethan exhaled sharply. “You think he’s really alive?”Isabella wasn’t sure.Leo had always been three steps ahead. If anyone could fake their death, it was him.And if he was alive…It meant the war wasn’t over.It was just beginning.Paris, France – The Investigation DeepensMarcella leaned back in her chair, fingers tapping against her desk.The official report claimed Leo had died from an overdose.But Marcella didn’t believe in coincidences.Her sources had seen Nikolai leaving the hotel minutes before Leo’s body was found.And now?

  • THE LAST STRAW OF LOVE.   Chapter 123

    **The War Begins** Milan, Italy – Isabella’s Next Move Isabella’s fingers trembled as she set down the glass of whiskey she hadn’t even tasted. The TV screen flickered, Leo’s smug expression still frozen in the background. He had done it. He had gone public. And now? The world was coming for her. Her office door burst open, and Ethan stormed inside, his face dark with barely controlled fury. “You need to fix this. Now.” His voice was sharp, edged with urgency. Isabella forced herself to remain calm, though every muscle in her body begged her to lash out. “I already have Marcella working on damage control,” she said smoothly, pouring another drink. “Leo wants a war. Let’s give him one.” Ethan ran a frustrated hand through his hair. “This isn’t just business, Isabella. He’s gone after your entire legacy. If the board believes him—” “They won’t,” she interrupted. “Because by morning, Leo won’t be credible enough for anyone to listen.” Ethan narrowed his eyes. “What are you

  • THE LAST STRAW OF LOVE.   Chapter 122

    ** The First Strike**Milan, Italy – Cain-Devereaux HeadquartersIsabella stood at the top floor of her empire, looking down at the city she had fought to control.It should have felt like victory.But instead, it felt like a battlefield.She had made a deal with Marcella—something she never thought she’d do.And now, it was time to deliver.Leo had to fall.Completely.Irreversibly.Because if he didn’t?If she left even a crack for him to slip through…He would come back.And next time?He wouldn’t just want his place in the company.He’d want revenge.Her phone buzzed.She picked it up, exhaling sharply.Marcella."The pieces are in motion. We strike at midnight."Isabella smirked.Let the games begin.Paris, France – Leo’s Last MoveLeo Cain stood in a darkened hotel suite, hands resting on the desk as he scanned the reports in front of him.The walls were closing in.Isabella had already started freezing his accounts.Her allies in the financial sector were pulling back investmen

  • THE LAST STRAW OF LOVE.   Chapter 121

    ** An Unholy Alliance**Milan, Italy – Isabella’s OfficeThe city skyline stretched behind her, bathed in the golden glow of the setting sun. But Isabella wasn’t admiring the view.She stood at her desk, fingers tapping lightly against the polished wood, as the weight of her decision settled over her.Across from her, Marcella Devereaux sat with a glass of red wine in hand, looking far too pleased with herself.“I have to admit, darling,” Marcella mused, crossing one leg over the other, “I didn’t think you’d actually call me.”Isabella studied her carefully.“I don’t make decisions lightly.”Marcella smirked. “Neither do I.”They had spent years locked in a battle for dominance—each one trying to stay a step ahead of the other.But now?Now, Isabella was about to break her own rules.Because Marcella was right about one thing.She needed her.And she hated it.The city skyline stretched behind her, bathed in the golden glow of the setting sun. But Isabella wasn’t admiring the view.Sh

  • THE LAST STRAW OF LOVE.   Chapter 120

    ** Broken Loyalties**Milan, Italy – Isabella’s PenthouseThe broken shards of glass glittered on the marble floor, a perfect reflection of what had just shattered between them.Isabella stood motionless, her chest rising and falling with each slow, controlled breath.Across from her, Leo Cain didn’t move.He was calculating, just like he always was.But this wasn’t business.This was them.And Isabella wasn’t sure if they still existed.She lifted her chin, her voice calm but sharp as steel.“You worked with Moreau.”Leo exhaled, raking a hand through his hair. “I told you—it wasn’t like that.”Isabella’s laugh was cold, hollow. “You don’t get to decide what it was.”She stepped forward, closing the space between them. “Did you tell me the truth at any point, Leo? Or was this all just part of your game?”His jaw tightened. “I never lied about what mattered.”“Then tell me this—” she whispered, voice dangerously soft. “Was I a part of your plan? Or was I just a pawn?”Leo’s green eyes

  • THE LAST STRAW OF LOVE.   Chapter 119

    ** The Empire Strikes Back**Milan, Italy – Cain-Devereaux HeadquartersIt was a perfect morning in Milan—if Isabella Devereaux believed in such things.The sun bathed the city in gold, casting long shadows across the boardroom where she stood, arms crossed, eyes locked on the newest report in front of her.Leo sat beside her, his expression unreadable as he scanned the file.Ethan paced, running a hand through his hair.“This isn’t just a business move,” Ethan muttered, placing his tablet down. “It’s a warning.”Isabella smirked, flipping the page.Marcella had made her move.An anonymous leak had surfaced overnight, tying Cain-Devereaux Holdings to illicit offshore accounts. Fabricated, of course—but deadly enough to raise eyebrows in the financial world.The news cycle was eating it up.Headlines flashed across the screen:“Shadow Deals? Cain-Devereaux Faces Scrutiny Over Global Expansion”“Devereaux Legacy Stained – Isabella Under Investigation (Again)”Leo’s jaw clenched. “She di

  • THE LAST STRAW OF LOVE.   Chapter 118

    ** A Throne of Her Own**London, England – Cain-Devereaux Private JetThe hum of the private jet was steady, a low vibration beneath Isabella Devereaux’s fingertips as she traced the edge of her champagne glass. The golden liquid inside barely moved, mirroring the control she maintained over herself despite the storm brewing inside.She was leaving London, leaving Marcella behind.But not for good.No, this wasn’t over.Marcella had tried to lure her in—offering her a seat at the table, a place in a new empire.But Isabella had no interest in joining someone else’s kingdom.She was going to build her own.She glanced across the cabin at Leo, who was watching her carefully from his seat, his own drink in hand.“You didn’t kill her deal,” he murmured, swirling the whiskey in his glass.Isabella smirked, meeting his gaze. “No.”Leo raised a brow. “You could have.”She leaned back in her chair, eyes gleaming. “Why kill something when you can take it for yourself?”Leo chuckled, shaking hi

  • THE LAST STRAW OF LOVE.   Chapter 117

    ** A Throne of Her Own**London, England – Cain-Devereaux Private JetThe hum of the private jet was steady, a low vibration beneath Isabella Devereaux’s fingertips as she traced the edge of her champagne glass.She was leaving London, leaving Marcella behind.But not for good.No, this wasn’t over.Marcella had tried to lure her in—offering her a seat at the table, a place in a new empire.But Isabella had no interest in joining someone else’s kingdom.She was going to build her own.She glanced across the cabin at Leo, who was watching her carefully from his seat.“You didn’t kill her deal,” he murmured, swirling the whiskey in his glass.Isabella smirked. “No.”Leo raised a brow. “You could have.”She leaned back in her chair, eyes gleaming. “Why kill something when you can take it for yourself?”Leo chuckled, shaking his head. “You really are ruthless, aren’t you?”Isabella tilted her head. “Would you like me any other way?”He smirked. “No. But you already knew that.”Their gazes

  • THE LAST STRAW OF LOVE.   Chapter 116

    ** The Last Queen Standing**Milan, Italy – Cain Enterprises PenthouseThe city glittered below, a sea of golden lights stretching toward the horizon.But Isabella Devereaux wasn’t watching the view.She stood near the floor-to-ceiling windows, her phone in her hand, her finger hovering over Marcella’s message.“There’s more than one way to rule the world, darling. Call me when you’re ready.”A challenge. A test. A trap.She knew exactly what Marcella wanted—to make her question everything.And damn it, it was working.Leo’s voice cut through the silence.“You’re still thinking about it.”Isabella turned to see him leaning against the bar, his green eyes watching her too closely.She smirked. “What gave it away?”Leo crossed the room in a few steps, stopping just inches from her. “You only get that look when you’re debating whether to burn the world down or walk away.”Isabella chuckled. “And which one do you think I’ll choose?”Leo smirked. “Burn it down. Every time.”She exhaled, lo

Maaari mong magustuhan

I-scan ang code para mabasa sa App
DMCA.com Protection Status