Alexander's POVI stood frozen, my phone clutched in my hand, as Layla's words crushed me.“Alex, Emilia passed away.”My mind went blank. I couldn't breathe. Grandma was gone? I thought she wanted a great grandson so badly.“Layla…” I whispered, struggling to find my voice.“I'm so sorry, Alex. I'm on my way to you,” Layla said, her voice trembling.I couldn't respond. Tears streamed down my face as I slumped against the wall.Dad found me like that, his face etched with concern.“Son?” he asked gently.I held out the phone, unable to speak.Dad's expression fell as he understood.“No...Emilia,” he whispered, his voice cracking.We stood there, holding each other, tears flowing freely.“Lily?” I asked, suddenly remembering.“She's with Layla. They're on their way,” Dad said.I nodded, composing myself.“How do I tell Lily,” I said, dreading the task.Dad nodded. “We will tell her together.”As we waited for Layla and Lily, memories flooded my mind. Grandma's laughter, her stern lectu
Layla's POVI woke up early in the morning, reaching for my phone to check social media.As a model, I liked to stay updated.Lily had returned to school. And Alex was doing well at his job. He got new investors from top countries in the world to partner with the Kings' Empire. He had expanded his Empire far and wide to different countries, making The Kings' number one!I was sure Emilia would be swelling with pride in her grave.Alex became the talk of the world. The hottest and youngest billionaire to hit it big. And I was by his side all through, feeling proud. “Yeah, that's my husband!” I scream in my head.Alex is always at the top of the charts. But today's trending news made my heart skip a beat.'Breaking News: Alexander King's Paternity in Question' I felt a chill run down my spine. “What does this mean?”“Alex, come quick!” I called out.Alex walked into the room, munching on snacks. “What's up?” he asked.“Turn on the TV,” I said, staring at my phone in disbelief.“What?”
Alexander's POVThe charity gala was in full swing.Layla shone in her red gown, captivating the room.I stood beside her, scanning the crowd. Searching for Reginald Thornton.“Layla, have you seen him?” I whispered.“Not yet,” she replied, casually sipping her wine like a random guest.We got the news yesterday that Reginald would be at this charity event and we decided to attend so we could see for ourselves.“That bastard!” I cursed underneath my breath.“Relax, honey. We'll catch him.” Layla said, smiling as she blinked her glass with mine.“We always have,” I whispered back.We mingled with the guests who swarmed around us to get our attention, showering us with flattering comments.Hypocrites!Just then, Larry approached. “Alex, Thornton just arrived.”I nodded. “Let's make our move.” We made our way through the sea of guests.Thornton's smile faltered as we approached.“Reginald,” I said, my tone cold.“Look who we have here!” Reginald gestured to those standing with him. “If
Layla's POVI stood up, my eyes locked onto Alexander's. “Let's pay them a visit,” I said, my voice steady.Alexander's face lit up with determination. “You're on.”Larry nodded, already typing away on his laptop. “I'll get the intel ready.”I gazed at Alex, my eyes full of admiration. Why are we always going from one trouble to another? We couldn't even give ourselves a good life. The universe is unfair. Life is not always about money.Alex noticed my gloomy face. “What's wrong?” He asked, concern etched on her face.“Nothing,” I shrugged, changing my expression.We moved swiftly, our team assembling in the conference room within minutes.“Alright, here's the plan," Alexander began. “We'll meet with our key investors, reassure them of our stability. And make sure Reginald's team doesn't get to them first,” I added.Larry handed us each a folder. “These are the target investors. We need to move fast.”We divided the list, our phones buzzing with calls and texts.“John, don't believe a
Alexander's POVI gazed into Layla's eyes, my heart swelling with love. “Ready for the next challenge?” I asked.Layla smiled. “Always.”Our lips met in a passionate kiss.Few weeks had passed since Reginald's downfall.The Kings' Empire flourished.Layla and I were inseparable. She bought shares in my company, becoming the second highest shareholder after me and I was grateful for that.Since we are now business partners, I get to see her almost everyday at work.I knew the business world was unpredictable. Enemies and rivals will keep arising and I was damn ready.“Alex, we have a meeting with potential investors,” Larry called, interrupting my peaceful evening with my wife. Layla stared at me from the pool, looking stunning in her bikini.I nodded. “Let's seal the deal.”I and Layla arrived at the conference room.Larry and Rachel were already seated.“Gentlemen, welcome,” I began.The investors smiled.“We are impressed with your empire's growth,” one said. His gray hair perfectl
Layla's POVI watched Alex stride across the room, his eyes locked on a man wearing a black tuxedo. He looks weird in it.“Stay away from Layla,” Alex warned.The ugly man smirked. “Why are you so tense, Alex? I never said I'd hurt your wife.”Alex's jaw clenched. “Don't play games with me, Julian.”I felt a shiver run down my spine.“Alex, meet my associate, Sophia,” Julian said.Who was this Sophia? She looked suspicious.Sophia's eyes locked on Alex. Lust burning in them.“Mr. King, you're more handsome in person.”I felt my inside burn with anger.Alex slapped her hand off. “What do you want?” he demanded.Sophia smiled. “We'll discuss that soon.” She whispered something into Alex's ears that I couldn't catch.As they vanished into the crowd, I rushed to Alex's side. “Who is she?” I asked.Alex's eyes narrowed. “Julian's associate. Don't worry.”But I sensed tension in his voice. “Alex, what's going on?”He hesitated. “Julian's not giving up.”My heart skipped a beat. “What else
Alexander's POVMy heart ached as I watched Layla disappear into the night. Had she just abandoned me?Julian and Sophia's laughter filled the air as I slumped on the floor, tears streaming down my face.Layla's betrayal felt like a dagger to my heart.“Give up, friend,” Julian whispered in my ear.Anger boiled within me. I grabbed Julian's neck, my hands tightening around it.“You scumbag!” I growled.Sophia rushed over to stop me, but she was sent flying in the air with just a light kick. “Jackass,” Julian cursed, his voice cracked.“Kill me, you bastard,” he spat.I glared at him, strangling him. His eyes turned red, and his face flushed.“She would have found out anyway,” Julian whispered.“I would have taken the secret to my grave if you hadn't told her!” I growled.Here are the sentences rewritten with simpler grammar:“Leave him alone!” Sophia yelled, crawling towards us. She seemed to have broken some bones because she couldn't stand. “I'll take pictures and you'll be trendi
Layla's POVI slammed the door shut, my heart racing with anger and concern. Why did Alexander keep secrets from me? What could be so bad that he couldn't share it with me? I paced back and forth in the guest room, trying to calm down.I couldn't believe he thought I would leave him over some illness. Did he really think so little of me? I stopped pacing and took a deep breath. No, Alexander wouldn't think that. There must be more to it.I walked over to the bed and sat down, my mind racing. What could this illness be? Is it contagious? Is that why he's keeping it a secret?Just as I was lost in thought, I heard a faint noise coming from Alexander's room. I got up and walked towards the door, listening closely. It sounded like...shattering glass?My heart skipped a beat. I quickly opened the door and rushed to Alexander's room. “Alexander!” I exclaimed.He was sitting on the bed, his hand bleeding profusely. Glass shards were scattered all around him. I rushed to his side. “Oh my
Layla's POVChristmas Eve arrived, and Alex transformed our penthouse into a winter wonderland.A majestic tree stood tall, adorned with sparkling ornaments and garlands.Soft candlelight illuminated the room, casting a warm glow.It felt heavenly!Alex took my hand, leading me to the balcony overlooking the glittering city.“Merry Christmas, Layla,” he whispered, his eyes shining.“Merry Christmas to you too, Baby.” I smiled.Below, a private orchestra played festive melodies.A champagne flute appeared in my hand, filled with golden bubbly.“To our forever Christmas together,” Alex toasted.I smiled, clinking my glass against his.As we sipped, a sleigh drawn by majestic horses glided onto the rooftop.“Alex, is this real?” I gasped.He chuckled. “I would do the unimaginable just for you.” We rode the sleigh above the city, stars twinkling above. Enjoying a great time together.“Wow!” I exclaimed in awe.“You deserve the best, Layla.” Alex smiled, placing a kiss on my neck.Upon re
Alexander's POVI took down the last attacker, my adrenaline pumping.“Done,” Larry said, panting.I nodded, scanning the area. “Let's get Layla to safety.”As we turned to leave, the stranger reappeared. “You think you've won?” he sneered.Is he even human? I wondered, with a smirk on my face. “I know I have.” I replied.Suddenly, one of our own security guards pulled a gun on us“Seriously, Jeff?” I raised an eyebrow. “You're joining the dark side?”Larry disarmed the traitor. “Guess we have a mole.”I glared at the guard. “You're fired. And going to jail.” I spat.Layla clung to my arm, her eyes wide. “Alex, how did this happen?”I smiled reassuringly. “Don't worry, I've got this.”Larry tackled the stranger, hitting his weak spot. The stranger snarled, struggling against Larry's grip. “You'll never be free. We will come for you, Alexander.”I chuckled. “I already have. You're just a pawn. And let them come. I'll handle them.”With the traitor neutralized, we escorted Layla to safe
Layla's POVI hugged Alex tightly, relief washing over me.“Thank you,” I whispered, tears streaming down my face.Alex stroked my hair. “I'll always find you.”I pulled back, smiling. “You're my superhero.”Alex chuckled. “Just your husband.”Larry approached, handcuffing the kidnapper. “Who is this guy?” He asked.“A stalker,” Alex replied. “We'll get him help.”The kidnapper glared at us. “You'll never be happy,” he spat.Alex raised an eyebrow. “Too late for that,” he said, grinning.I giggled.As we walked out, I spotted a tiny rat amidst the scattered papers.“Look!” I exclaimed.Alex smiled. “Guess our little hero distracted the kidnapper.”I laughed. You think the rat's a hero?”Alex nodded. “Definitely.”We shared a laugh.But as we drove away, I turned serious. “Alex, what if he's not the only one?”Alex's expression turned stern. “I'll protect you, Layla. Always.”I leaned into him. “Forever and always,” I whispered.Alex smiled. “Forever and always.”After the kidnapper's
Alexander's POVI rushed to Larry's location, my mind racing with worst case scenarios. What could be so urgent?As I arrived, Larry greeted me with a worried expression. “Alex, sorry to disturb your evening, but we have a major issue.”“What is it?” I asked, impatience creeping in.“Our servers have been hacked. Client data is at risk.” He replied.I cursed under my breath. “Get our tech team on it. Now.”Just as we began brainstorming solutions, my phone buzzed. An unknown number.“Hello?” I answered.“Alexander King.” A low, menacing voice replied on the other end.My instincts kicked in. “Who is this?”“You don't need to know. But you'll never see Layla again.” He replied.My heart plummeted. “What have you done with her?”“Let's just say she's...indisposed.” He grinned.Rage coursed through my veins. “Listen, you sick…”The line went dead.“Larry, I need to go!” I shouted, already sprinting back to the lake.Larry's concerned voice faded into the distance. “Alex, wait!”I dialed
Layla's POVThe next morning, Alex and I were snuggled on the couch, binge-watching our favorite show. I turned to him with a mischievous grin. “Alex?”“Yeah?” he replied, his eyes still on the screen.“I have a confession to make,” I said, trying to contain my excitement.Alex turned to me, raising an eyebrow. “What is it?”I took a deep breath. “I've been secretly taking dance lessons.”Alex's eyes widened in surprise. “What? Why?”I giggled. “I want to surprise you with a sexy dance for our anniversary.”Alex's face lit up with a bright smile. “That's amazing! But now I have to stop it.”I laughed. “Game on! But don't think you can outdo me.”The next thing, Alex disappeared into the kitchen. I heard strange noises, pots clanging, utensils tapping.“What's going on?” I asked, curiosity getting the better of me.“Surprise!” Alex shouted, emerging with a makeshift drum set.He began drumming, his eyes sparkling with excitement. I couldn't help but laugh.“You're crazy!” I exclaimed.
Alexander's POVTears streamed down my face as I heard Layla's whispering into my ears.“I will stand by you, Alex. Even if you decide to push me away.”My heart melted.I was selfish. I shouldn't have desired a family. It was too much for me to desire happiness with my family.I pretended to sleep, Layla's words echoing in my mind. She deserved better than a life filled with hospital visits and constant worry. But I couldn't bear the thought of losing her.As we arrived home, Layla helped me to my room, her silence a testament to her concern. I knew she must have done research on Hemophilia A, trying to understand the reality we faced.It wasn't as bad as she supposed. I have been taking care of myself since I was young. I let her think I was asleep, but I watched her through slightly opened eyes. Her determination and love were a healing to my soul.The next few days passed in a blur. Layla took care of me, nursing my hand back to health.I told her not to worry that it wasn't as
Layla's POVI slammed the door shut, my heart racing with anger and concern. Why did Alexander keep secrets from me? What could be so bad that he couldn't share it with me? I paced back and forth in the guest room, trying to calm down.I couldn't believe he thought I would leave him over some illness. Did he really think so little of me? I stopped pacing and took a deep breath. No, Alexander wouldn't think that. There must be more to it.I walked over to the bed and sat down, my mind racing. What could this illness be? Is it contagious? Is that why he's keeping it a secret?Just as I was lost in thought, I heard a faint noise coming from Alexander's room. I got up and walked towards the door, listening closely. It sounded like...shattering glass?My heart skipped a beat. I quickly opened the door and rushed to Alexander's room. “Alexander!” I exclaimed.He was sitting on the bed, his hand bleeding profusely. Glass shards were scattered all around him. I rushed to his side. “Oh my
Alexander's POVMy heart ached as I watched Layla disappear into the night. Had she just abandoned me?Julian and Sophia's laughter filled the air as I slumped on the floor, tears streaming down my face.Layla's betrayal felt like a dagger to my heart.“Give up, friend,” Julian whispered in my ear.Anger boiled within me. I grabbed Julian's neck, my hands tightening around it.“You scumbag!” I growled.Sophia rushed over to stop me, but she was sent flying in the air with just a light kick. “Jackass,” Julian cursed, his voice cracked.“Kill me, you bastard,” he spat.I glared at him, strangling him. His eyes turned red, and his face flushed.“She would have found out anyway,” Julian whispered.“I would have taken the secret to my grave if you hadn't told her!” I growled.Here are the sentences rewritten with simpler grammar:“Leave him alone!” Sophia yelled, crawling towards us. She seemed to have broken some bones because she couldn't stand. “I'll take pictures and you'll be trendi
Layla's POVI watched Alex stride across the room, his eyes locked on a man wearing a black tuxedo. He looks weird in it.“Stay away from Layla,” Alex warned.The ugly man smirked. “Why are you so tense, Alex? I never said I'd hurt your wife.”Alex's jaw clenched. “Don't play games with me, Julian.”I felt a shiver run down my spine.“Alex, meet my associate, Sophia,” Julian said.Who was this Sophia? She looked suspicious.Sophia's eyes locked on Alex. Lust burning in them.“Mr. King, you're more handsome in person.”I felt my inside burn with anger.Alex slapped her hand off. “What do you want?” he demanded.Sophia smiled. “We'll discuss that soon.” She whispered something into Alex's ears that I couldn't catch.As they vanished into the crowd, I rushed to Alex's side. “Who is she?” I asked.Alex's eyes narrowed. “Julian's associate. Don't worry.”But I sensed tension in his voice. “Alex, what's going on?”He hesitated. “Julian's not giving up.”My heart skipped a beat. “What else