Jessica stared at William with wavering eyes, her lips slightly parted in shock. She wasn’t expecting this from him—not now, at least. William cupped her cheek and smiled. “I love you. That’s the only answer I have to all your questions,” he said, then chuckled as he reflected on everything that had happened between them. “I don’t know why it had to be you, but everything happens for a reason. Perhaps it was fate that brought you to me that night... for you to bring warmth to my lonely heart. It all happened so fast, and the more I tried to fight it, the more you kept messing with my head and my heart. Now, I can’t fight it any longer. I love you, Jessica.” Jessica slowly shook her head, her gaze lowering. “No,” she muttered under her breath, her voice just loud enough for William to hear. “I... I don’t belong here. I don’t think I belong with you. What will the public say if they ever find out? And Louis—he’s your cousin, and—” “Louis has nothing to do with my personal life,”
William stood next to one of his cars, waiting patiently for Jessica to finish up."I'm ready!" Jessica called out, rushing downstairs to where he stood.He smiled and opened the car door for her. Once she was seated, he slid into the driver’s seat, started the engine, and they drove off to their destination.The drive to his parents' house was a long one, and after almost an hour, they arrived at the mansion's grand compound.As Jessica stepped out of the car, she was greeted by Helena's bright smile."My daughter, how have you been?" Helena exclaimed, pulling Jessica into a warm embrace.Jessica smiled. "I missed you, Mother," she replied."I missed you more. You look so healthy—I guess my son is doing a good job," Helena teased with a wink."Oh! I also watched your recent movie. You absolutely stole the show from the leads. I'll definitely recommend you to a few directors I know," Helena added.Jessica’s smile widened. "Thank you, Mother. That’s so kind of you.""Let’s go in. The o
Jessica walked into the dining room to find everyone already seated around the table. Her eyes darted to Roland, who gazed back at her with an unreadable expression, as though he hadn’t uttered those cutting words earlier. Feeling the tension build, Jessica lowered her gaze and made her way to an empty chair, sitting quietly.“Sweetheart,” Helena’s soft voice broke the silence, her tone warm and inviting. “How about one of these days, the three of us go shopping? Just us three ladies?”Jessica hesitated, her awkwardness evident. “Uh… I’m not sure if it’s okay for people to see us together,” she replied, her voice faltering.Helena’s smile wavered as surprise flickered across her face. Something about Jessica’s reply unsettled her—it sounded off, almost guarded. Concerned, Helena couldn’t help but wonder what had caused this shift in Jessica’s demeanor.After Roland’s words, Jessica couldn’t shake the acute awareness of the class difference that existed between her and the rest of the
Louis walked to the window, his phone pressed to his ear, a glass of whiskey in hand. The warm hues of the setting sun cast shadows across the skyscrapers in the distance. He took a slow sip from his whiskey, his sharp gaze lost in thought before finally addressing the person on the other end of the line.“So, what’s the movie about?”“The movie is an adaptation of a book written by the renowned British author Scott Gibson. It’s a masterpiece, and the author, who’s also the scriptwriter, personally requested you for the male lead role,” Louis’s personal assistant explained eagerly.Louis let out a small chuckle as he turned from the window, setting the glass of whiskey down on a nearby table. “You know I don’t waste my time on amateur projects. How much are we talking about here?”“Sir, this isn’t an amateur movie. The book has a massive fan base, and there’s already a buzz about the film. Honestly, this could win the Best Picture award. And to answer your question, we’re talking mill
“You want to audition for the villain role? But why? The scriptwriter, Mr. Scott, is particularly meticulous about that role. I've heard even the top actresses in the country couldn’t pass the audition because they couldn’t portray the villain the way he envisioned,” Rachael said, worried about Jessica.“That makes it even more challenging and interesting to me,” Jessica replied confidently.“But–”“Rachi, don’t worry about me. I have faith and confidence in myself. I can do it,” Jessica reassured her with a smile.A brief silence passed on the call before Jessica heard Rachael sigh out.“Fine. I believe in you,” she said. “But the movie is going to have Mr. Louis and Ms. Belinda as leads. I hope you’re okay with it. You know Louis... He’s...” Rachael trailed off, choosing her words carefully.Jessica paused briefly but then replied firmly, “I’m cool with it.” she said.“Alright, then! I’ll email the audition location to you. It’s happening tomorrow,” Rachael said.“Thanks! That’s why
The next day, Jessica was seen hopping on one leg as she slipped on her shoe. Once she was done, she settled down in front of her vanity table to apply her makeup.Jessica hadn’t slept a wink the previous night; she had been busy rehearsing for the audition. As she dabbed on concealer, she made sure to cover the dark circles under her eyes, evidence of her sleepless night.Once ready, Jessica grabbed her things and left for the audition venue.Upon arrival, she was stunned by the huge number of actors and actresses present. The waiting area buzzed with activity, and Jessica could spot a few popular actresses she recognized from movies she had watched.Slowly, nervousness crept into her system. ‘If popular actresses are here, and some are likely to be rejected, what chance do I have?’ she thought.“No... Don’t think that way. Be positive, Jessica!” she muttered inwardly, taking a deep breath. She scanned the room for a seat and quietly settled in an empty chair, waiting for her turn.J
Earlier That Day...Rachael sat in front of the vanity table, putting the finishing touches on her makeup."Brandon, are you ready? We'll be leaving in a few minutes," Rachael called out."I'm almost ready, Mom!" Brandon replied from his room.Rachael checked the time and sighed, hurrying to finish up. Jessica must be waiting for her at the audition venue, but she still had to drop Brandon off at school first.Once she was ready, Rachael gathered her things, preparing to leave with her son. Suddenly, the door swung open with a loud thud, and a man stumbled in, staggering. He looked disheveled, badly beaten, and reeked of alcohol."Anybody home? Where the hell is everyone?" he slurred, gripping the wall for support.Brandon’s eyes lit up, and he ran toward the man. “Daddy!” he exclaimed excitedly.The man roughly shoved Brandon aside. “Get out of my way. I’m not your father,” he growled, glaring down at the boy.“Brandon!” Rachael rushed over, pulling her son into a protective hug. “Go
William stood at the front of a large conference hall, addressing his employees. His voice was steady, his presence commanding.“…So that’s the program for the launch of our latest product,” William concluded his detailed presentation.The employees clapped in unison, clearly impressed by the meticulous planning.“Any questions or suggestions?” he asked.Five hands shot up immediately. An older woman was the first to speak.“I suggest we strengthen the advertising campaign. It’s–”The door suddenly swung open, cutting her off. Maxwell strode in, his face etched with urgency. Murmurs surged through the room as the workers exchanged curious glances, startled by the interruption.Maxwell walked up to William. “Mr. President, we have a problem,” he said, his voice low but firm. “There was an attempted murder right outside the company. A person was shot.”“What?” William’s brows furrowed deeply.Maxwell hesitated, adjusting his glasses nervously. “The victim… it’s your wife, Mr. President.
Rachael turned to face Fred, the gun still in her shaky hands. Fred stood there, his expression calm yet with an undeniable edge. His eyes narrowed, and he asked again, "What are you doing in my stuff?"Stuttering, Rachael struggled to find her voice. "What’s a gun doing in your stuff? And how did you get all that money?" The words tumbled out of her lips. She felt a mix of fear and anger stirring within her.Fred took the gun from her trembling hands, his grip firm and confident. He picked up the black bag that had been lying on the floor. Without another word, he walked toward the door."Fred! Wait!" Rachael shouted, her heart racing as she followed him, desperate for answers. "What did you do to have all that money? What’s going on?"He abruptly stopped, spinning around to face her. "Stop asking questions, woman! Mind your f**king business!" His voice thundered through the living room, "You’re the one who told me to find a job. I did. I found one that suits me just fine." He said.
Jessica walked out of the room, wearing a cozy red sweater paired with joggers. The air was crisp, carrying the fresh scent of pine and damp earth. She pulled her sleeves over her fingers as she made her way to the living room.William was sitting by the fireplace, a warm glow illuminating his sharp features. He held mug of coffee in one hand while scrolling through his phone with the other, his expression calm.Jessica walked up to him then eased herself onto his thigh. She wrapped her arms around his shoulders, snuggling comfortably into his chest. His warmth seeped into her, and she let out a satisfied sigh. The two of them were spending the night in a small cottage, nestled deep in the woods near a serene lake. The atmosphere was peaceful, the kind of quiet that made time feel slower. “I like places like this,” Jessica murmured. “When I was younger, I always wished I could live surrounded by nature. Somewhere quiet, just like this.” she smiled.William’s arms tightened around
The bright studio lights cast a warm glow over the set, illuminating the two actresses seated on a bench in the middle of the college-themed backdrop. The cameras were rolling, capturing every movement and emotion as Belinda playing Daria, turned to Jessica who played Graciela. "You should tell him," Daria urged, eyes shining with excitement. "You've been crushing on Wyatt for years. What's stopping you?" she said.Graciela hesitated, her fingers nervously picking at the hem of her skirt. "What if he doesn't feel the same way?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper. Daria scoffed playfully, nudging her best friend. "Then at least you’ll know, and you won’t spend the rest of your life wondering what could have been. Come on, Graciela, you’re smart, beautiful, and kind. Wyatt would be crazy not to like you back." Daria scoffed.Graciela smiled hesitantly. "You really think so?" She muttered shyly.Daria beamed. "I know so! You have nothing to lose. C'mon girl!" Daria nudged he
The bright studio lights cast a warm glow over the set, illuminating the two actresses seated on a bench in the middle of the college-themed backdrop. The cameras were rolling, capturing every movement and emotion as Belinda playing Daria, turned to Jessica who played Graciela. "You should tell him," Daria urged, eyes shining with excitement. "You've been crushing on Wyatt for years. What's stopping you?" she said.Graciela hesitated, her fingers nervously picking at the hem of her skirt. "What if he doesn't feel the same way?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper. Daria scoffed playfully, nudging her best friend. "Then at least you’ll know, and you won’t spend the rest of your life wondering what could have been. Come on, Graciela, you’re smart, beautiful, and kind. Wyatt would be crazy not to like you back." Daria scoffed.Graciela smiled hesitantly. "You really think so?" She muttered shyly.Daria beamed. "I know so! You have nothing to lose. C'mon girl!" Daria nudged he
Jessica sat stiffly in the passenger seat of the sleel black car, her fingers curled tightly around the fabric of her dress. The man beside her exuded an air of quiet authority, his presence unsettling yet strangely familiar. She didn't know him, yet something deep inside her told her he meant no harm.The silence between them stretched uncomfortably until the man finally broke it with a soft chuckle."You look just like her," he said, a bitter smile tugging at his lips.Jessica turned to him, frowning slightly. "Her?" She ssked"Your mother," he murmured.Jessica’s breath hitched. "You knew my mother?" she asked, her voice filled with curiosity.The man sighed, a bitter smile playing on his lips. He leaned back against the car seat."I knew her very well," he admitted. "Janet and I… we were close. Very close. Practically lovers."Jessica’s eyes widened. She wasn't expecting this at all."But things ended between us when she met your father," the man continued, "She fell in love with
The wedding ceremony was nothing short of luxurious. Soft classical music played in the background as guests watched with anticipation as the bride walked down the aisle till she stopped before the groom.Belinda stood beside Jericho, glowing in her attire. Her makeup was impeccable, and her veil sparkled under the light. Jericho, dressed in a perfectly tailored black tuxedo, looked composed, though his face carried an unreadable tension.The priest smiled warmly and soon enough the rites began.“Do you, Jericho Smith, take Belinda Harrison to be your lawfully wedded wife, to have and to hold, in sickness and in health, for richer or for poorer, for as long as you both shall live?”A heavy silence fell over the hall as everyone waited for Jericho’s response.Jericho’s lips parted, but no words came out.The hall suddenly grew more tense, seeing the hesitation in his eyes.Belinda’s hands clenched slightly around his as a flicker of fear crossed her eyes. The murmurs among the guests g
The Next Day...Jessica stood in front of the full-length mirror, adjusting the purple body-hugging gown that accentuated her curves. The rich fabric clung to her perfectly, highlighting her slender waist and delicate figure. Her hair was styled in loose waves, falling over her shoulders, and the touch of makeup brought out the sharpness of her features. She picked up a pair of silver earrings, fastening them carefully before turning slightly to the side, examining her reflection. As she reached for her purse, she caught sight of William leaning against the doorframe, arms crossed, watching her intently with a smile on his lips. His grey eyes roamed over her, appreciation evident in his gaze. "You look stunning," he said, his voice smooth yet laced with something else... Was it possessiveness?Jessica smirked as she picked up her perfume bottle, spraying a little on her wrist. "Thank you." She replied.William pushed himself off the doorframe and walked toward her, slipping his a
"Make me yours," she whispered.William stood there, gazing at her. He didn't expect this would be the second present she wanted.Taking steps to fill in the gap between them, he cupped her cheek. A smile grazed his lips as he spoke, "You don't have to feel obliged to do this. I don't want you to–""I want it, trust me." Jessica held his hand on her face, she looked down, her cheek redening even more. "I want you," she muttered.William lifted her chin to meet his gaze. Slowly, he leaned in to capture her lips. He lifted her in his arms, walking to the bed, their lips never leaving each other.He laid her gently on bed, her hands buried in his hair as they kiss. Something about him felt addictive, intoxicating.William broke the kiss and lowered his head. Jessica's breathing became uneven when his lips met with her chest, sending shivers down her spine.He peppered kisses on her body, trailing further down. When Jessica realized where he was heading to, she closed her legs, blushing.
Five days later…Jessica and Helena strolled through the spacious aisles of an upscale boutique, the soft sound of classical music playing in the background. Shelves were lined with luxurious items ranging from fine jewelry to rare collectibles, and Helena’s eyes sparkled as she browsed through the store.“I just don’t know what to get William,” Helena sighed, holding up an expensive watch before placing it back.Jessica walked beside her, observing silently. Helena had invited her along to help shop for William’s birthday, but Jessica felt oddly out of place. She hadn’t even prepared a gift for her husband yet, and the thought bothered her slightly.“What about you, Jessica?” Helena asked, glancing over her shoulder. “Have you decided what to give him?”Jessica hesitated. “I… I’m not sure,” she admitted. “I don’t even know what he likes.” she said, biting her lower lips.Helena chuckled, patting Jessica’s hand reassuringly. “Don’t overthink it. William will treasure anything you give