Vanessa POVApril 9th, 2024For the first time in days, things felt normal again. Due to the attack at the gala, the fashion house launch was pushed to the following week. I spent my previous days preparing for the launch of Queens by VC, diving into fabrics, designs, and business meetings. At night, I lost myself in quiet moments—reading, drinking wine, pretending my heart wasn’t at war with itself. The bodyguards still escorted me to most places, a few security measures had to be taken.Edward offered to send interior designers for my new shop so I stopped over after I dropped Liam off at school. The mannequins were spaced out, and the name ‘Queens by VC’ hung right above the building outside. I was on the verge of tears, this dream had been in my head for years. I was so fulfilled I got the opportunity to make it a reality.Easter was fast approaching and would hold this week, so I thought of a warm cozy Easter dinner at home at the mansion. I could invite Bella and her husband, D
Daniel POVThe moment Wendy walked in and Vanessa left, the atmosphere changed. Wendy's smile faltered, and her golden eyes narrowed. She was dressed too well. Perhaps overdressed even. Her hair rested on her shoulders in waves, brunette in color. and her makeup was flawless.She was also putting on a designer gown. This was all too much for just a visit to my penthouse.What’s the catch? Wendy Hawthorne was certainly a handful.The mask she wore wasn’t enough to conceal the slight trembling of her fingers, or the way her eyes roamed about, like she was searching for something,— power, affirmation, control.“Daniel, sweetheart.” She said softly, trying to sound gentle.“I needed to see you. I still want us, and the life we promised each other.” I sighed in exhaustion. I wasn’t ready for all this.“What are you really doing here Wendy? Tell me the truth.” She flashed me her catchy grin, the one she'd used on red carpets, with directors, and on me. "I just got out of rehab," she
Vanessa POVI moved across the length of my bedroom, my arms crossed over my chest as I listened to Mandi’s fingers moving across her laptop keyboard. She had crossed her legs and was sitting on my bed, her gaze moving across the screen and a deep furrow developing between her brows.The children, Liam, Gwen and James were sitting on the floor, playing with their toys, unknown to them of the scandal that had my head racing.Mandi let out a faint whistle."Wow. Wendy Hawthorne is a piece of work.”I stopped pacing. “What did you find?" She turned the laptop towards me, and I leaned in to examine the writing. This is Wendy Hawthorne: A Story of Talent, Chaos, and Tumultuous Romance.The blog stated that Wendy is an award-winning actress, praised as one of Hollywood’s brightest stars. She had also starred in three blockbuster films—two romance dramas and one high-octane action thriller—that had all become instant hits and internet sensations. Directors loved her, audiences adored
Vanessa POVBella had been very helpful and supportive of me, she suggested lunch for the both of us at low key but exotic restaurant. I also want Mandi to have a good time in New York besides the Mansion, so our own sister outing was scheduled for later before she goes back to the UK.She extended her stay for the whole of April When I told her what transpired at the gala. Mandi was in complete shock and she tried her best to make me feel better. I recall her embracing me.“I’m so sorry you have to go through all this Vanessa. I’m here for you okay?” Her voice suddenly echoed in my head.Then My phone buzzed. A message from Daniel.“Can we talk? Please.”Carefully I glared at it, I could feel the weight of his request pressing down on me. I desired to ignore it, pretend he no longer existed. But the memory of him standing between me and a bullet was impossible to forget.I got carried away, as Donovan pulled up on the driveway.Bella chose a restaurant quietly tucked away in one of
Sunday April 13, 2024Vanessa POVA scent of roasted chicken filled the whole kitchen and extended to the corners of the mansion.It also mixed with the aroma of the fresh lasagna baking in the oven, alongside the cookies and cupcakes. A pot of spaghetti sauce cooked on the gas, while I brought out a batch of garlic bread from the oven to cool.Beside it, Mandi was making some taco chicken sandwiches and had also prepared a large bowl of salad, the dressing on it made it look so good.One of the maids moved the tray of mashed potatoes to the dining room, and I began to put some Chinese rice and honey glazed Turkey into my casserole dish.My mother watered at the sight of it.Roasted Fish and chips with some fresh pepper sauce were also one of my favorites. The fish roasted nicely as I set that on the kitchen counter, with the loads of other meals we had prepared.Mandi wiped her forehead dramatically. "Good lord! Remind me why we thought making all of this food ourselves was a good
Vanessa POVGolden fairy lights brightened the lawn in the mansion. I adored how It gave a lovely glow over the neatly cut grass. The fragrance of barbecue grilling filled up the air, mixing with the fresh perfume of roses from the neighbouring flower beds. A beautiful tune played in the background, and the entertainment Edward had planned made their appearance. My eyes widened with surprise when a group of salsa dancers, dressed in stunning red and gold, came into the yard, and took up different positions. The Latin music sounded stylish as it played the dancers moved in perfect sync, their bodies flowing and bursting with energy. I couldn't resist smiling at the sight. Edward had gone out of his way to ensure the night didn’t feel too tense after the awkward arrival of Daniel and Wendy.He leaned in slightly, his voice quiet in comparison to the background commotion. "I thought this would lighten up the mood after…" his voice trailed off, but I understood perfectly what h
Vanessa POVAs Edward and I entered Velvet Luxe, a classy club-restaurant with elegant decor, soft lighting, and a seductive jazz undertone humming beneath the bass of the music, the night air was clear.Different couples occupied the dance floor, swaying their bodies to the music and feeling the groove. The smell of Baylee’s and expensive perfumes, heavy in the air. Edward’s hand rested seductively on the small of my back. Then the waiters showed us a private booth near the bar.The booth was welcoming, the ambiance warm, the chairs felt very comfy and were made of leather. The lights hung on the roof and glowed dimly, setting the tone of the environment while making us feel at home at the same time.the server handed us two glasses of red wine,“A Toast” Edward replied.I raised a brow, smirking as I lifted my glass. “To what exactly?”He clinked his against mine. “To a night of forgetting.”A soft chuckle left my lips before I took a slow sip, letting the smooth burn coat my thr
Daniel POVThe car trip back to the penthouse was filled with stress. Wendy sat next me, arms folded, her beautiful dress bunched up in her clutch, fuming. Her reflection in the window showed a storm brewing—jaw tightened, lips squeezed tight, eyes flaming with wrath.I remained focused on the road, grasping the wheel, my own displeasure boiling beneath my skin. When Edward instructed us to go, I felt a weight of humiliation land on my shoulders. Not because of Vanessa. Not even due to Edward. But due to Wendy and the whole calamity she had caused. I knew I shouldn't have brought her. It was a bad idea. The moment I parked, she pushed open the door and stormed inside, her shoes tapping fiercely on the ground of my penthouse.Wendy spun around to face me The second the door slammed shut.“Daniel What the hell was that ?!”I sighed, rubbing a hand down my face. “Wendy, drop it. It’s over.”“Drop it? DROP IT?!” She let out a humorless laugh. “I was humiliated tonight! Do you e
Vanessa POVThe elevator ride to the exotic hotel suite was anticipating.Edward’s body heat radiated towards me as he stood close, his scent a mix of something unique, something only he owned. It intoxicated my mind, my senses. His fingers moved on my bare arm, igniting the excitement from earlier.He leaned into me, pressing his lips to my ears,“I’m going to make you beg for me, Nessa.” he whispered. His voice sending delicious shivers through me.I swallowed hard, my breath became uneven. I could still feel the rush from the Lamborghini ride, the reckless abandon, the speed— it all set my pulse high and racing. I was now standing near him, my stomach coiled in excitement like a tightly strung spring. I hardly heard the lift doors open before Edward grabbed my hand and pulled me inside the room.The suite was wonderful. A king- sized bed draped in soft looking silk sheets, amazing large floor to ceiling windows that showed the bright city skyline. Outside on the balcony, I co
Daniel POVThe car trip back to the penthouse was filled with stress. Wendy sat next me, arms folded, her beautiful dress bunched up in her clutch, fuming. Her reflection in the window showed a storm brewing—jaw tightened, lips squeezed tight, eyes flaming with wrath.I remained focused on the road, grasping the wheel, my own displeasure boiling beneath my skin. When Edward instructed us to go, I felt a weight of humiliation land on my shoulders. Not because of Vanessa. Not even due to Edward. But due to Wendy and the whole calamity she had caused. I knew I shouldn't have brought her. It was a bad idea. The moment I parked, she pushed open the door and stormed inside, her shoes tapping fiercely on the ground of my penthouse.Wendy spun around to face me The second the door slammed shut.“Daniel What the hell was that ?!”I sighed, rubbing a hand down my face. “Wendy, drop it. It’s over.”“Drop it? DROP IT?!” She let out a humorless laugh. “I was humiliated tonight! Do you e
Vanessa POVAs Edward and I entered Velvet Luxe, a classy club-restaurant with elegant decor, soft lighting, and a seductive jazz undertone humming beneath the bass of the music, the night air was clear.Different couples occupied the dance floor, swaying their bodies to the music and feeling the groove. The smell of Baylee’s and expensive perfumes, heavy in the air. Edward’s hand rested seductively on the small of my back. Then the waiters showed us a private booth near the bar.The booth was welcoming, the ambiance warm, the chairs felt very comfy and were made of leather. The lights hung on the roof and glowed dimly, setting the tone of the environment while making us feel at home at the same time.the server handed us two glasses of red wine,“A Toast” Edward replied.I raised a brow, smirking as I lifted my glass. “To what exactly?”He clinked his against mine. “To a night of forgetting.”A soft chuckle left my lips before I took a slow sip, letting the smooth burn coat my thr
Vanessa POVGolden fairy lights brightened the lawn in the mansion. I adored how It gave a lovely glow over the neatly cut grass. The fragrance of barbecue grilling filled up the air, mixing with the fresh perfume of roses from the neighbouring flower beds. A beautiful tune played in the background, and the entertainment Edward had planned made their appearance. My eyes widened with surprise when a group of salsa dancers, dressed in stunning red and gold, came into the yard, and took up different positions. The Latin music sounded stylish as it played the dancers moved in perfect sync, their bodies flowing and bursting with energy. I couldn't resist smiling at the sight. Edward had gone out of his way to ensure the night didn’t feel too tense after the awkward arrival of Daniel and Wendy.He leaned in slightly, his voice quiet in comparison to the background commotion. "I thought this would lighten up the mood after…" his voice trailed off, but I understood perfectly what h
Sunday April 13, 2024Vanessa POVA scent of roasted chicken filled the whole kitchen and extended to the corners of the mansion.It also mixed with the aroma of the fresh lasagna baking in the oven, alongside the cookies and cupcakes. A pot of spaghetti sauce cooked on the gas, while I brought out a batch of garlic bread from the oven to cool.Beside it, Mandi was making some taco chicken sandwiches and had also prepared a large bowl of salad, the dressing on it made it look so good.One of the maids moved the tray of mashed potatoes to the dining room, and I began to put some Chinese rice and honey glazed Turkey into my casserole dish.My mother watered at the sight of it.Roasted Fish and chips with some fresh pepper sauce were also one of my favorites. The fish roasted nicely as I set that on the kitchen counter, with the loads of other meals we had prepared.Mandi wiped her forehead dramatically. "Good lord! Remind me why we thought making all of this food ourselves was a good
Vanessa POVBella had been very helpful and supportive of me, she suggested lunch for the both of us at low key but exotic restaurant. I also want Mandi to have a good time in New York besides the Mansion, so our own sister outing was scheduled for later before she goes back to the UK.She extended her stay for the whole of April When I told her what transpired at the gala. Mandi was in complete shock and she tried her best to make me feel better. I recall her embracing me.“I’m so sorry you have to go through all this Vanessa. I’m here for you okay?” Her voice suddenly echoed in my head.Then My phone buzzed. A message from Daniel.“Can we talk? Please.”Carefully I glared at it, I could feel the weight of his request pressing down on me. I desired to ignore it, pretend he no longer existed. But the memory of him standing between me and a bullet was impossible to forget.I got carried away, as Donovan pulled up on the driveway.Bella chose a restaurant quietly tucked away in one of
Vanessa POVI moved across the length of my bedroom, my arms crossed over my chest as I listened to Mandi’s fingers moving across her laptop keyboard. She had crossed her legs and was sitting on my bed, her gaze moving across the screen and a deep furrow developing between her brows.The children, Liam, Gwen and James were sitting on the floor, playing with their toys, unknown to them of the scandal that had my head racing.Mandi let out a faint whistle."Wow. Wendy Hawthorne is a piece of work.”I stopped pacing. “What did you find?" She turned the laptop towards me, and I leaned in to examine the writing. This is Wendy Hawthorne: A Story of Talent, Chaos, and Tumultuous Romance.The blog stated that Wendy is an award-winning actress, praised as one of Hollywood’s brightest stars. She had also starred in three blockbuster films—two romance dramas and one high-octane action thriller—that had all become instant hits and internet sensations. Directors loved her, audiences adored
Daniel POVThe moment Wendy walked in and Vanessa left, the atmosphere changed. Wendy's smile faltered, and her golden eyes narrowed. She was dressed too well. Perhaps overdressed even. Her hair rested on her shoulders in waves, brunette in color. and her makeup was flawless.She was also putting on a designer gown. This was all too much for just a visit to my penthouse.What’s the catch? Wendy Hawthorne was certainly a handful.The mask she wore wasn’t enough to conceal the slight trembling of her fingers, or the way her eyes roamed about, like she was searching for something,— power, affirmation, control.“Daniel, sweetheart.” She said softly, trying to sound gentle.“I needed to see you. I still want us, and the life we promised each other.” I sighed in exhaustion. I wasn’t ready for all this.“What are you really doing here Wendy? Tell me the truth.” She flashed me her catchy grin, the one she'd used on red carpets, with directors, and on me. "I just got out of rehab," she
Vanessa POVApril 9th, 2024For the first time in days, things felt normal again. Due to the attack at the gala, the fashion house launch was pushed to the following week. I spent my previous days preparing for the launch of Queens by VC, diving into fabrics, designs, and business meetings. At night, I lost myself in quiet moments—reading, drinking wine, pretending my heart wasn’t at war with itself. The bodyguards still escorted me to most places, a few security measures had to be taken.Edward offered to send interior designers for my new shop so I stopped over after I dropped Liam off at school. The mannequins were spaced out, and the name ‘Queens by VC’ hung right above the building outside. I was on the verge of tears, this dream had been in my head for years. I was so fulfilled I got the opportunity to make it a reality.Easter was fast approaching and would hold this week, so I thought of a warm cozy Easter dinner at home at the mansion. I could invite Bella and her husband, D