I arrived at the party, which was bubbling already. I didn't ask if Ryan was going to attend, I just came on my own.Shirley's home was enormous, way bigger than ours, who would have known she was this rich and come from a wealthy family?She always kept her low profile in the school, and I think that won't be the same again after today.I was dressed in a turquoise blue body-con dress, which brought out my slender curves and my long chocolate brownish hair fell to my back, with a matching black purse which had my bikini wears.I had already seen some of my classmates as I got close to the mansion, they greeted me as soon as they saw me and I reciprocated.The pool party started in the evening, and I knew too well that when Shirley said she was having a birthday party and her twin brother was the one hosting the party, and also heard some girls giggling behind the desk saying they wanted to go to the party to see her brother, I just knew he was the one who had that party to himself an
Shirley and I went to the last floor after I dressed her in a lovely red glittering gown, she looked so beautiful, it was a long gown with a slit up to her left thigh.I made sure she wore light makeup that complimented the gown. “Goodness, Shirley, you look so beautiful,” A gorgeous lady said, walking closer to us as soon as she saw us.“Thanks, mum,” Shirley smiled, and I stared at the woman I was calling a lady, she looked younger and slim.You would have mistaken her for a twenty-Six-year-old unless your eyes catch on to the silvery diamond ring she had on her finger.“Mum, this is Hailey, my friend in school,” Shirley introduced me to her and I put on one of my best smiles.“Good evening,” I greeted the mum, who wore a beautiful smile on that lovely face of hers.She looks like a model…“Hello dear, I hope you are having a great time here?” She asked, smiling at me.“Yes,” I answered sharply, and she nodded.“Enjoy the party, see you two around,” She smiled at us, and we nodded.
“Let go of her!” Ryan growled, his hazel eyes dilated darker as he stared at Ramon and when I turned my face to Ramon, his blue eyes suddenly got darker than they were, the dazzling sparkles in his eyes all faded and replaced with fury.“And who the fuck are you?” Ramon roared at him and I snapped.“Her boyfriend or what?” He questioned, a slight smirk creeping its way to his lips.Ryan was about to talk, and I interrupted, immediately shutting him off.“You two should stop!” I lashed out, snatching my arms furiously from the both of them, and I turned my gaze annoyingly to Ryan.I wanted to talk, but I decided against it, my blood was boiling, and I glared venomously at Ryan, I kept mute to ensure I didn't say something I would end up regretting to Ryan and I noticed the people around us stopped with whatever they were doing and focused on us eagerly.Ryan's eyes met mine, and they softened immediately after we held contact, without waiting longer, I stormed off feeling agitated abou
Ryan and I got home… After entering the house, I dashed upstairs and opened the door to my room and walked inside, closing the door behind me. I sighed, kicking off the heels I was wearing, before trudging my way towards my bed.I threw my purse on the bed and sat on the edge of the bed, then my door opened suddenly and Ryan walked inside.Furthermore, I bored my eyes at him, and he closed the door behind him while I narrowed my gaze at him.“Uhm!” He started scratching the back of his head, looking away nervously, while I pressed my lips together.“What?” I questioned him slightly amused, tilting my head to the side and giving him a taunting look.“Nothing,” He uttered, he looks as if he was having a hard time starting a conversation with me.The tension surrounding us felt a bit awkward…“Nothing?” I inquired, still doubting him, I know he had something in his mind to say, Ryan darted his gaze towards me and I saw the enthralling flicker in his eyes, his hazel eyes dilated brightly,
The weekends rolled off as fast as I could imagine, and I decided not to go to school, I had already taken my bath but just lay still on my bed, I glanced at the wall clock and saw that it was past seven in the morning.I grabbed my phone from the chest close to my bed and used my duvet to cover my body, I tossed onto my side, and switch on my phone. I clicked on the W******p icon to check for any new messages from Aiden, but it was nil.'What is up with him?' I asked myself, he wasn't even worried about me or wanted to know how I was doing.'I'm going to give him a surprise visit, today,' I smiled thinly to myself, I began manipulating my phone checking for the latest movies that were available on the internet.One of the reasons I didn't want to go to school was I wanted to avoid whatever gossip my classmates and some other students will be spreading around about what happened at Shirley's pool party, and again I'm just feeling too lazy to go to school and even stand up from my bed.
I grabbed a bouquet of red and white rose flowers and also decided to get Aiden's favorite cookies before I started walking towards the counter and gave the items I bought to the sales girl.“Everything is $45,” The sales girl told me and I nodded, bringing out a $50 note from my small purse and gave the money to the sales girl, and she helped me pack the flowers and cookies.I wanted to give Aiden a surprise and find out what he has been up to again, maybe he was busy this time or not, he didn't even text or call me for some days now, if I say I wasn't annoyed that would be a lie not like I cared so much about it but something was off between us.I thanked the sales girl and walked out of the mall. Standing by the roadside, I waited for a cab I could wave at and take me to Aiden's apartment.Suddenly, a cab was coming my way but when I was about to flag it down, there were passengers in the back seat.I sighed and moved back slightly, then I saw another cab and stretched my hand wavi
Seriously?What am I doing here?I swallowed the heavy lumps in my throat, blinking my eyes severally, hoping all this wasn't true.I just caught my good-for-nothing boyfriend cheating, and he has the nerve to ask me what I was doing here.“What am I doing here?” I asked myself the same question he asked and chuckled to myself, shaking my head and biting my lower lips… Is this a joke or what?The blonde girl stood up from the bed, and her nakedness was free for viewing, my eyes darted to where she was going then she stopped suddenly and bend slightly to pick the litter of clothes crumpled on the floor which seems to be her clothes and just went into Aiden's bathroom without a word then I snapped my gaze back to Aiden who was struggling to put on his boxers.Without saying anything, I turned around and began making my way to the living room.“Hailey!” My ears cringed as he called my name, but I didn't stop, I needed to get out of here as fast as possible.“Hailey, please wait!” Aiden c
I lay on my bed, crying silently to myself as I stared at the ceiling in my room while listening to one of Ali Gatie's songs playing on my Bluetooth speaker, and kept blaming myself for why I accepted to be in a relationship with the jerk in the first place.I was pretty certain, he never had pure intentions for me in the start.Likewise, I didn't want to think much about it because that makes us two now, I guess we were both jerks because I've cheated on him too, and breaking up the relationship was just the perfect way.My phone kept on ringing, signifying incoming calls and various text messages from Aiden.My thoughts were rowdy, and I was thinking of numerous things, my life entirely… everything was simply a mess, and I'm sick of it.My lovely family crashed due to mum's indecision and my love life was totally out of place, especially when I knew deep down I still had feelings for my stepbrother.I blinked my eyes severally, I wanted to cry again, but my tears were dried out, an
Hailey's POV.I sat nervously in front of my vanity mirror, my heart pounding with excitement and anticipation. It was my graduation day, marking the end of years of hard work and dedication. I glanced at the clock on the wall, counting down the minutes until the ceremony would begin.I was in my room at Ryan's house, and my makeup artist, Sarah, meticulously applied the final touches to my makeup, highlighting my natural beauty. I watched Sarah work with a mix of nerves and awe. "You're amazing at this, Sarah," I said, admiring my reflection."Thank you, Hailey! You're already stunning, so it makes my job easier," Sarah replied with a smile, adjusting my hair to fall in loose waves around my shoulders.My mind raced with thoughts of the day ahead. I couldn't wait to see my parents in the audience, proud smiles on their faces. Despite the recent misunderstandings in my family, I hoped today would be a day of celebration and unity.As Sarah finished the final touches, I stood up from m
Hailey's POV.I wanted to leave but I turned back to Mom again, I couldn't shake off the lingering questions in my mind. I went to her room and sat down, sat down with my Mom, and the words I had been holding back spilled out."Mom, what if Dad wanted you back?" I asked quietly, my gaze searching my Mom's eyes for any sign of hope or regret.Mom's expression turned somber as she considered the question. "Hailey, your dad has every right to move on and find happiness. I've caused him so much pain and heartache. I don't deserve his love anymore."My heart ached at my mom's words. "But Mom, don't you want to try to make things right? To be a family again?"Mom sighed, her shoulders slumping with the weight of regret. "I wish things were different, Hailey. I wish I hadn't made the choices I did. But I can't change the past, and I can't expect your dad to forgive me for betraying him and you."Tears welled up in my eyes as I realized the depth of my mom's remorse. "Mom, you're not unworthy
Hailey's POV.The air was heavy with anticipation and tension in Ryan's house. It had been a week since the dramatic confrontation that led to Uncle Elijah considering reconciling with his estranged wife. I couldn't shake off the somber atmosphere that seemed to linger in every room.One evening, as I sat by the window in Ryan's room, staring at the moonlit sky, Ryan entered with a troubled expression. He sat down beside me, and without a word, I knew something was bothering him."What's wrong, Ryan?" I asked softly, turning to look at him.Ryan sighed heavily. "I can't stop thinking about everything that's happened. Dad is still unsure about Mom coming back. It's like we're walking on eggshells around here."I nodded, understanding his concern. "I've been feeling the same way. But you know what's been on my mind more? My Mom. She's been so quiet and withdrawn since that night."Ryan frowned, his brows knitting together in concern. "Do you think she regrets leaving your Dad?"My gaze
Ryan's POV.When Dad returned to the sitting room, we stopped talking about Hailey and I love, we focused on Dad again, but at least, I was relieved. There was no secret in Hailey and I loved life again, we were free.I stood in the middle of the living room, my heart heavy with the tension that crackled between Hailey and my parents. They sat across from each other, their expressions a stark contrast.My Mom looked at Dad with a mixture of regret and apology in her eyes. She knew she had hurt him deeply, and her gaze reflected her remorse. On the other hand, Dad's eyes were filled with annoyance and a hint of bitterness. He couldn't shake off the pain of the past, the wounds that had never fully healed.The room felt suffocating, the silence broken only by the ticking of the clock on the wall. I shifted uncomfortably, wishing I could disappear or at least bridge the chasm that had grown between my parents. I never knew forgiveness would be that difficult."Mom, Dad," I finally spoke,
Hailey's POV.I watched as Uncle Elijah's jaw tightened slightly, but he remained silent, waiting to hear me out."I understand that things have been difficult, and mistakes have been made," I continued, my voice gaining strength. "But holding onto anger and resentment will only hurt us in the long run. We need to find a way to move forward together."Aunty Rebecca scoffed. "Move forward? After everything that has happened?"I nodded. "Yes, even after everything. Because deep down, I know that we all care about each other. Uncle Elijah," she turned to him, "I know you still love your wife, despite everything, she birth to your son after all. And Aunty Rebecca," I faced her next, "I know you regret some of the decisions you've made."Uncle Elijah sighed heavily, his gaze shifting to Aunty Rebecca. "It's not that simple, Hailey," he murmured, his voice filled with pain."But it can be," I insisted, my eyes brimming with conviction. "If we're willing to open our hearts to forgiveness and
Hailey's Pov.The drive back home was nothing like when we were going to the restaurant, it was lively with Ryan's Mom, who was making some hilarious jokes just for the family to laugh, and at some points, I cracked up a laugh.I was beginning to feel that maybe Ryan's Mom wasn't that bad, maybe she just wanted peace and love among us all, but everything changed when we got home and met Mom. Aunty Rebecca changed from the sweet she was a second ago and changed to something I didn't know. I had to double-check her if she was the same person or if someone else was supposed to be her.Aunty Rebecca's voice cut through the sitting room immediately we entered and met Mom sitting there, her words laced with contempt as she directed her insults at my Mom once again. "I don't know why you're even here, trying to pretend like you belong. You're nothing but a husband snatcher, a gold digger!" She was harsh with her words. I palmed my face in frustration, oh no! Not again!My mom bristled at the
Hailey's POV.I sat on the stairs of the school, my backpack slung over one shoulder, my eyes scanning the parking lot for any sign of Ryan's car. He had promised to pick me up after my final exam, but as the minutes ticked by, it became clear that he wouldn't make it. I sighed, feeling a mix of disappointment and understanding. Ryan often got caught up in his family's business recently, especially when his Dad needed him.Just as I was about to call Shirley for a ride, a voice interrupted my thoughts. "Hey, Hailey! Need a lift?" Micah grinned, leaning against his car with a casual charm.I smiled gratefully. "Yes, please. Thanks, Micah."When he was driving us towards my house, Micah turned on the radio, filling the car with upbeat music. "So, how was your exam?" he asked, glancing at me.I shrugged. "It was okay, I guess. Just glad it's over."Micah nodded, understanding the relief of finishing exams. "Any plans for the summer?"My mind wandered to the beach trips and lazy days I ha
Hailey's POV.My eyes fluttered open as the soft morning light filtered through my curtains, casting a warm glow across my room. It was Monday, the beginning of my final exams, and a mix of excitement and nervousness filled my thoughts. I stretched lazily in bed, feeling the weight of the upcoming challenges ahead. I had no exam that day, til the morrow I was going to the library with Shirley to read.As I sat up and rubbed the sleep from my eyes, memories from the previous weeks flooded my mind. The incident in the chemistry lab still lingered, the sting of Brielle's insincere apology and the scar in my hand serving as constant reminders. But today, I vowed to focus on my exams and push aside any distractions. I must graduate in a few months.I swung my legs out of bed and padded over to my desk. The stack of textbooks and notes seemed to mock me, reminding me that every hard word would begin to reflect today.As I flipped open my biology textbook, my phone buzzed with a message from
Ryan's POV.Mom came again as usual to cause trouble, but I couldn't let her in, Hailey was still healing from the turmoil that her last visit caused and I couldn't help but stop her from entering, I was sick of always letting her in only to cause Harley more pain."Ryan, what are you doing?" She asked me unbelievably."I'm stopping you from entering, Mom. You will only go in there are cause more pain to people who don't deserve it. You have been doing that for days now and I have been foolishly letting you in over and all over again, but not today. You should leave immediately." I wanted to close the door but she stopped me."Are you chasing your mother away from her house Ryan? What had that woman turned you to? I didn't bring you up to be disrespectful to me, I don't know that my child would be cruel to me." She was using a guilt trick on me, and I knew it. I still spoke with her though."Mom. If you were Hailey's Mom, I'm sure you would have killed yourself by now, if you see the