The grand ballroom was adorned with glittering chandeliers and ornate decorations, setting the stage for the final celebration of the reality show that had consumed Talia's life for the past months. The show was finally over and she could finally return home. This past months, she had found more fame and most importantly, love. As the cast and crew mingled, laughter and clinking glasses filled the air, creating an ambiance of both euphoria and apprehension.Talia stood at the elegant bar, her fingers curling around a champagne flute, as she took in the scene before her. The familiar faces of her fellow cast members smiled and chatted, acknowledging the culmination of their shared experience. Yet, amidst the revelry, a weight tugged at Talia's heart. This would also mean leaving behind Justin, the man who had captured her heart amidst the chaos of the show.The anticipation of returning home brought waves of conflicting emotions crashing over her. She yearned for the familiarity and co
A week had gone by and Brixlee hadn’t heard from Nathan. He had said he needed to process everything but he was still processing. That morning, Brixlee got a call from her grandpa and she went to see him. She hadn’t told him about the pregnancy, she hadn’t decided when to. At least, not until she had heard from Nathan.Brixlee sat on the weathered wooden bench, gazing out at the neatly trimmed garden where vibrant flowers swayed gently in the breeze.Moments later, her grandpa, Noah, emerged from the front door, his face etched with concern. He found his granddaughter lost in her thoughts, her eyes glazed with a mixture of sadness and confusion. Wordlessly, he took a seat beside her, the familiar creak of the bench breaking the silence."Brixlee," Noah began softly, his voice carrying the weight of a father's love, "I know about it. The baby."Brixlee turned to face him, her eyes searching for answers that seemed forever out of reach. “How did you…?""I think it would be best for you
The bustling airport terminal was crowded with travelers, their hurried footsteps echoing through the cavernous space. Brixlee, standing amidst the chaos, clutched her battered suitcase, her heart heavy with determination. She had made up her mind to leave everything behind and start afresh, far away from the pain and disappointment that had consumed her.As she stationed herself by the gate, a sense of finality settled upon her, the uncertainty of her future intertwined with a glimmer of hope. The automated announcement of departures washed over her, a constant reminder that her escape was imminent.Just as the boarding call for her flight echoed through the speakers, she caught a glimpse of a familiar figure weaving through the throngs of people. Her heart fluttered with a mixture of anticipation and trepidation as he approached. It was him, Nathan, who had cast aside their love and denied the existence of their unborn child."Brixlee!" Nathan called out breathlessly, his voice lace
A Month Later…Brixlee paced back and forth in the living room, her hands clasped tightly in front of her. She was a nervous wreck. Nathan's father was due to arrive any minute, and she was terrified."Please stop panicking, Brixlee," Nathan said, his tone filled with worry. "You're going to make yourself and our baby, sick."Brixlee glared at him for a moment, then rolled her eyes and continued pacing. "How do you expect me to be calm?" she snapped.Taking a deep breath, Brixlee slowly lowered herself onto the couch. Her anxiety had been building up ever since Nathan informed her about his father's upcoming visit. It felt like she had been holding her breath since that moment, worried about how the encounter would unfold. Nathan's father had always been somewhat mean towards her after he told her about her mother. It puzzled her why Nathan’s father held onto her mother's past mistakes, as if she were responsible for them.It was true that her mother used to work for Nathan’s father a
But he also didn't want to say no to his father."I'll think about it," he said finally.His father nodded. "That's all I ask."Nathan turned and walked out of the study, feeling conflicted. He didn't want his father's business partner staying at his house, but he also didn't want to say no to his father. He knew that his father was still trying to come to terms with his marriage to Brixlee, and this was his way of testing her.Nathan sighed. He knew that he had to do something to make his father happy, but he also didn't want to put Brixlee in a difficult position. He would have to talk to her about it and see what she thought.After Nathan’s father left, Nathan decided to speak to Brixlee about the request his father made and she was surprisingly agreeable."That sounds like a great idea," she said. "It would be nice to have an elderly person around. I've always wanted to learn more about their experiences."Brixlee was happy that at least she would have company once in a while sinc
Brixlee's cheeks flushed with a mix of surprise and embarrassment as she shook his hand, momentarily speechless. "I-I'm Brixlee. Nice to meet you," she stammered, attempting to compose herself.As Fredia stepped into the house, Brixlee stole glances at his rugged good looks and charismatic demeanor. His disarming charm was evident in the way he carried himself, and she couldn't help but feel a flutter of fear mixed with nervousness.Nathan appeared from the stairs, his expression equally stunned. "Dad didn't mention you were...uh, young," he said, trying to hide the hint of annoyance in his voice.Fredia chuckled, running a hand through his dark hair. "Yeah, I suppose that part got left out," he replied with a playful grin. "My dad had some medical issues to he couldn’t make it, he sent me instead," he added with a smile.Nathan slowly held Brixlee’s hand. “We’ll be right back”He pulled her to the kitchen as they exchanged glances. “I had no idea…he”Nathan brought out his phone and
The midday sun streamed through the office window, casting a warm glow across the cluttered desk where Nathan sat, immersed in files and paperwork. The sound of the door opening pulled his attention away, and a bright smile broke across his face as Talia, stepped inside. "Hey, Talia! What a pleasant surprise," Nathan said, putting the files aside and standing up to give her a warm hug. "How are you doing?" Talia grinned back, returning the hug. "I'm good, thanks! How about you, Nathan? How's your Brixlee and the baby?" Nathan's eyes lit up with excitement as he spoke about them. "They're doing great!” Talia smiled. “I had business nearby so I figured I’d say hi” she said as she plopped down on an old leather armchair by the window, her face reflecting a mix of exhaustion and excitement. She was happy that Nathan was happy and she wished she was also as happy as he was. Although, she had felt broken when she found out Nathan was getting married and he was soon going to become a f
Brixlee felt her eyes brimming with tears, her voice shaking as she struggled to find a response. "But... Nathan and I already married," she managed to choke out, her voice barely above a whisper. Allen Grey’s expression hardened, the lines etching deeper into his face. "That may be, but it does not change the fact that I find you entirely unsuitable for my son. Your mother had a terrible reputation, if words get out that you’re her daughter, it’s not going to go down well." The words hung heavy in the air, suffocating her as his disdain washed over her like a wave. A surge of anger began to well within Brixlee, dispelling her initial shock. How dare he belittle and invalidate her marriage to Nathan so callously? How dare he judge her based on her mother’s past actions? No matter how much she tried to escape from her mother’s past and convince herself that it was in no way any of her fault, Nathan’s father always reminded her of it. Tears spilled uncontrollably down her cheeks as s
The day had arrived, three months after the harrowing incident that had brought their lives to the brink. The grand baby shower was a celebration of life, a testament to the strength and resilience of their bonds. Brixlee stood in her room, a radiant smile gracing her lips as she admired her reflection. Her baby bump had grown substantially.Nathan's voice pulled her from her reverie as he entered the room. His eyes were filled with admiration as he looked at his wife. "You look absolutely stunning, Brixlee."Brixlee's cheeks flushed with a rosy hue as she met his gaze. "Thank you, Nathan. I'm excited for today."He gently took her hand, his touch reassuring as he led her downstairs. The sight that greeted them was breathtaking — the house adorned with beautiful decorations, a testament to the love and care their friends had poured into organizing the event.The party began in full swing, laughter and joy filling the air as friends and loved ones gathered around Brixlee. Each gi
Nathan's heart raced as he was finally freed from the chair he was tied to, his thoughts consumed by the sight of Brixlee, wounded and in pain. He rushed to her side, his arms wrapping protectively around her trembling form. Panic and desperation surged through him as he saw blood seeping from her stomach, his voice a mixture of fear and urgency. "Brixlee, stay with me. Help is on the way. You're going to be okay."Brixlee's breaths came in shallow gasps as she clung to Nathan's presence. She fought to stay conscious, her gaze locked onto Nathan's as she whispered, "I... I'm scared, Nathan."Nathan's voice trembled, his emotions laid bare as he held her close. "I know, Brixlee. I'm here with you. You're strong, and we'll get through this together."Soon, the ambulances arrived. Paramedics swiftly took charge, attending to Brixlee's injuries and stabilizing her condition.With gentle but hurried movements, they placed Brixlee and Fredia onto stretchers, securing them carefully. Nathan'
Just as their hiding spot was about to be exposed, Nathan's swift action shattered the tension. He leaped out of their hiding place, his determination to protect his family evident in his every movement. Brixlee watched in a mixture of terror and admiration as Nathan confronted the masked man.Nathan's bravery did not go unnoticed, and he was swiftly captured by the masked man. Brixlee's breath caught, her grip on her emotions slipping as she watched her husband being led away. Her heart screamed with a mix of worry, helplessness. As the masked men secured Nathan and the others, Brixlee's mind raced, she needed to protect her family. As the masked men's attention was occupied, she seized the moment. With trembling hands and a racing heart, Brixlee stealthily crept out of the kitchen, her footsteps light against the floor. Her heart pounded in her chest, her thoughts consumed by the image of Nathan and the safety of their unborn child. Brixlee ascended the stairs, her steps careful a
“Say hello to my shitty friends” Six masked men stood at the door, their menacing presence causing the room to fall silent. Brixlee's heart raced as her eyes widened in shock. Beside her, Nathan's expression hardened, his protective instincts kicking in. Among the masked men, a figure stood out — Ronnie Anne, a friend who had suddenly turned to a foe. The air grew thick with tension as she locked eyes with Brixlee, her gaze cold and unyielding."Get on your knees!" Ronnie Anne's voice was sharp, her words cutting through the room like a blade. Brixlee's knees trembled, and a shiver ran down her spine as fear gripped her. She sank to her knees, her mind racing to process the unfolding nightmare."Why are you doing this, Ronnie Anne?" Nathan's voice was steady, a pillar of strength amidst the chaos. His attempts to keep Brixlee calm were evident in the gentle squeeze of his hand on her shoulder.Ronnie Anne's lips curled into a sinister smile as she spoke, her voice laced with bitt
Patty's mind raced, and in a split second, she concocted a lie. "Oh, Talia, I was just trying on Brixlee's robe," she said with an attempt at nonchalance, her cheeks flushed.Talia's gaze flickered between Patty and the robe, her expression a mix of disbelief and incredulity. "Trying on Brixlee's robe?" she repeated, a hint of skepticism in her tone. "Why?"Patty shrugged, feigning casualness. "I saw it earlier and thought it might look good on me. You know, I was thinking of getting a similar one."Talia's skepticism lingered, but she seemed to accept the explanation. "Well, okay then. Just... remember to ask next time, alright?"Patty nodded, her heart still racing from the near miss. "Of course, sorry about that," she replied, attempting to appear contrite.With a lingering glance at Patty, Talia turned and left the room, the door closing behind her. Patty let out a breath she hadn't realized she was holding, her pulse gradually returning to normal.After a moment to collect hersel
“Brixlee said we should stop by th…the…errr… fortune village to get our fortunes read so we should probably start going” Fredia stammered.Nathan furrowed his eyebrows, “Why should we get our fortunes read?” he asked, confused.“I mean your fortune. She said…by knowing the father’s fortune, you can predict the baby’s future” Fredia explained, hoping Nathan had bought his lie.Surprisingly, he did, “That tracks, that sounds like something Brixlee would say” he said with a smile. “We should get going, i don’t want to miss the movie”As Nathan and Fredia made to leave, Ronnie Anne stopped them.“You’re leaving without finishing the potrait?” She asked, her face suddenly stern.“Yeah, maybe some other time” Nathan replied.Ronnie Anne suddenly scoffed, “Do you always leave everything just like that because you got tired of it?!” she asked as Nathan and Fredia exchanged glances at her suddenly outburst.“Excuse me?” Nathan asked, still surprised.Ronnie Anne quickly cautioned herself, “I’m
Two Weeks Later… The early morning sunlight filtered through the curtains, casting a soft, golden glow across the room. It was a tranquil Sunday morning, and a sense of excitement filled the air as Brixlee carefully held a vibrant balloon and a small, wrapped present in her hands. She stood beside Nathan's bed, a warm smile playing on her lips as she watched him sleep peacefully.As the gentle rise and fall of his chest indicated that he was starting to stir, Brixlee's heart fluttered with anticipation. She took a quiet step closer to the bed, her eyes fixed on Nathan's serene expression. Today was a day of celebration, a day to shower him with love and joy.Nathan's eyelids fluttered open, and his gaze met Brixlee's, surprise evident in his eyes as he registered her presence. Brixlee's smile widened, and she held the balloon higher, the colorful ribbon dancing in the air. "Happy birthday, Nathan!" she greeted, her voice infused with genuine warmth.Nathan blinked, momentarily
Nathan sat in his office, going through some files. He was engrossed in reviewing a stack of documents when the door swung open, and Paige walked in. Her eyes were fixed intently on her phone, a small smile playing on her lips. Curiosity piqued, Nathan looked up from his work and raised an eyebrow. "Paige, what's got you so captivated?" Paige's gaze shifted from her phone to Nathan, and her smile widened. "Oh, hi Mr. Grey. Sorry to interrupt, but I'm just watching your wife’s show. I'm a big fan of hers." Nathan's interest was piqued, and he leaned back in his chair. "Brixlee's show, huh? What's today's episode about?" Paige's eyes gleaned as she replied, "It's really interesting. She's helping her friend Emily find clarity about her husband." Nathan's curiosity deepened, and he couldn't help but ask, "Clarity about her husband? How so?" Paige's grin grew wider, this was it. Her role was to make sure Nathan watched the podcast or at least learn about it in order to set their
With the shirt still in Brixlee’s hands, she walked out of the bedroom and down the hall to the living room. Nathan was sitting on the couch, engrossed in reading a book. He looked up and smiled warmly as he saw her approach. "Brix, everything okay?" he asked, sensing her unease. Her heart pounded in her chest as she hesitated, unsure of how to bring up the topic. Taking a deep breath, she finally spoke up, her voice tinged with concern. "Nothing, I just wanted to know if you needed anything” she lied, hiding the shirt behind her flowing gown. Nathan's brows furrowed as he looked at her in surprise,"I’m fine, Brix," he replied, going back to the book he was reading. Brixlee's heart sank, her mind racing with possibilities. She wanted to trust Nathan, but the sight of the lipstick stain stirred doubts in her. She couldn’t bring herself to question him also even though it bothered her. She didn’t want anything to come between them or cause any misunderstanding. She made her way