Louisa's breathing becomes labored. She experiences a range of feelings, including disbelief, thankfulness, rage, and relief. "Evelyn told you?" she asks in a frustrated tone. "And she didn't think to let me know that she would?" "I apologize. Kingsley hurriedly remarks, "I know this is sudden," and steps in her direction. "I had decided to let go of the past regardless of what the truth was and once I listened to Evelyn, I couldn't stay still or keep quiet any longer. How have you been able to live for the past five years? How did you cope?” He asks, his tone obvious with wonder. Her feelings are leaking out as she shakes her head. "Kingsley, I know you believed I was someone I'm not. And you wouldn't listen, so I couldn't even explain.” "I understand," he murmurs, regret weighing heavily in his voice. “And for that, I despise myself. Back then, I ought to have let you explain. But I was furious and upset. I was unable to look past my emotions.” Louisa maintains eye co
The buzz of the New York night replaces the hiss of the airplane doors opening. She appears, powerful but hidden, an unmistakable presence. Oversized sunglasses protect her eyes even though there is no sunlight, and a silk scarf, beautifully wrapped beneath her chin, covers the sharp features of her face. Her heels click quietly on the shiny airport floor as she strolls with the kind of grace that attracts attention effortlessly. As she steps out into the clean, cool air, her luggage, a simple set of leather-bound bags, slides after her. She halts on the curb for a time, breathing deeply and tilting her face skyward. She acknowledges privately that she is home, and the tiniest hint of a smile pulls at her lips. Or maybe not quite at home. Not quite yet. She glances at the line of yellow cabs idling nearby, the city lights dancing in her sunglasses. She flags one down with a single elegant wave. With its tires screeching on the wet pavement, the cab arrives. She
With deliberate resolve, Louisa walks confidently into the office building, her shoes sounding on the shiny floors. Her other hand was clasped at her side while she gripped her bag firmly in the other. As she walks to Evelyn's office, Louisa hardly notices the hesitant smile the receptionist gives her. Evelyn's neatly arranged desk is illuminated by the early morning light streaming in through the wide glass windows. After setting her purse aside, Louisa inhales deeply and sits down in Evelyn's chair. She seems to be intentionally and symbolically seizing this place. She is waiting for round two after sitting here yesterday to unsettle Evelyn. Slowly, time tickles by. Under her calm appearance, Louisa's emotions are simmering, and she practices her thoughts to make sure she won't falter. The calm is finally broken by the sound of approaching footsteps. Evelyn opens the door but remains in the doorway when she observes Louisa seated at her desk again, her face chan
As Kingsley strides into the office, his usual sharp suit and brightness appear to light up the entire floor, and the lively buzz of activity at Wills Corporation fills the air. His smile is unwavering, his walk has a bounce, and he greets his staff with a warmth that makes them notice his good mood. A junior staff member greets, "Good morning, Mr Wills!" and is taken aback by the broad smile that is fixed on his face. "Good morning! Isn't today a wonderful day to be alive?” He responds by giving the young man a shoulder clap before moving on to his office. Hardy observes from a distance and walks up to him. As they walk side by side after exchanging greetings, Kingsley whistles a happy tune. Hardy arches an eyebrow. "All right, what's going on?" It feels like you're on another planet today, even though you've been exceptionally sunny since yesterday. What's the good news, please?” Glancing at him briefly, Kingsley laughs. "Oh, please, Hardy, a man cannot just enjoy his d
Kingsley reaches Louisa's apartment as the sun is sinking, illuminating the sky with pink and orange tones. He has a bunch of gifts in his arms, including groceries, another set of toys for Liam, and even a bunch of colorful flowers for Louisa. His pulse pounds not because he is unsure, but rather because he is eager to see the smile that he knows would light up her face. Almost immediately as he knocks, the door flies open. Liam stands there smiling, his bright, questioning eyes and mess of curly hair. He yells, "Daddy!" and hurls himself at Kingsley. With a giggle, Kingsley easily catches him and twirls him around before putting him down. Behind Liam, Louisa emerges, and Kingsley's heart skips a beat at her gentle smile. Her hair is casually combed back, and she looks stunning in a simple outfit. She tries to sound informal when she remarks, "You're early," but her eyes show how excited she is. With the bouquet in hand, Kingsley says, "I couldn't wait to
After what seems like an age, the van screeches to a stop. Crumpled and shaking in the back, Cordelia attempts to raise her head but is unable to do so due to the excruciating pain that shoots through her entire body. The men haul her out like a rag doll after yanking the doors open. As they drag her toward a dark warehouse encircled by thick woods, her feet scuff the gravel. With a savage chuckle, one of the men pushes her through the door and remarks, "Welcome to your new home." The warehouse smells of grease and moisture inside. Long shadows are thrown on the concrete walls by the menacingly flickering light above, creating a chill and causing the concrete walls to throw extended shadows. She is flung upon a hard, chilly floor. Cordelia groans and grips her ribs as the pain flares up again. "Stay down, lady," the leader, who is taller than her, sneers. "This is not the place for you to act arrogant. I'm determined to deal with you like a mere pawn.” Cordelia str
Returning to work the following day, Fred walks into the office, his usual lighthearted smile firmly in place. It is as if the storm that clouded his demeanor over the past weeks has finally passed. The clatter of keyboards and the soft hum of conversation greets him, and he feels a quiet satisfaction in being back. “Morning, Fred!” a colleague calls, and Fred waves warmly, stopping briefly to speak before making his way to his desk. He takes a deep breath as he passes Dr. Stanley’s office. It is time to convey his gratitude like a gentleman would do. Knocking lightly, he steps inside. “Ah, Dr Fred,” Stanley remarks, glancing up from his desk. “Good to see you back. Feeling better?” "Yes, I do. Thanks to you, I'm much better," Fred says, grinning politely nonetheless. “I appreciate you coming by my place and checking in on me. It meant a lot.” Stanley waves a hand dismissively. “Just doing what anyone would. I didn't expect you'd return to work so soon though. You sh
Kingsley walks briskly across the lobby's gleaming marble floor, his thoughts focused on the next board meeting. Hardy and three other staff members trail behind him, all dressed in business suits and carrying light briefcases. Phones ringing, shoes clicking, subdued conversations—the regular hum of activity scarcely registers in his thoughts. Until a voice interrupts him just before he reaches the spinning doors. "Kingsley!" It demands attention since it is melodious yet piercing. When he turns, he sees a pretty lady approaching him, with deliberate slow steps. Her dark hair falls in a cascade, framing her piercing green eyes and high cheekbones, and she is quite tall. Although she is beautiful, he is troubled by her face, which is a mix of desperation and determination. "Who are you?" Kingsley inquires with a clipped tone. He doesn't have time for this kind of interruption. A few feet away, the lady comes to a halt before him, her eyes fixed on his, "it's me, King
Kingsley's lavish mansion is illuminated by the golden rays of the setting sun, creating a fascinating atmosphere for Liam's fifth birthday celebration. Music, laughter, and the vivid hues of balloons and streamers fills the garden. With endless energy, a few children run around, their laughter mingling with the gentle murmur of adult conversation. With his arm loosely around Louisa's waist in a romantic manner, Kingsley steps close to the imposing fountain. They share a look that says it all: years of hardships, miscommunications, and heartache has brought them to this point, stronger and more in love than ever. Their entire world revolves around their baby, Liam, and this day is a celebration of both his life and their family's tenacity. As she watches Liam blow out his candles in front of his young buddies, Louisa murmurs, "Look at him," in a proud tone. "He's very happy. So deserving, he has been a strong boy.” Kingsley answers with a gentle kiss on her temple. "Just
"Martha?" Louisa calls in a scarcely discernible whisper. Martha stands there with a serene face and inquisitive gaze. "Louisa," she says quietly. Louisa feels fear take hold of her chest. How did Martha even know her house? Yeah well, she probably asked Evelyn. But why did she have to visit now of all times? Kingsley is inside her house, even though she had assured Martha that she would let go of him only a few hours earlier. Martha may misinterpret things if she sees him with her. But before Louisa can come up with an excuse, to dismiss Martha or go out with her, Kingsley speaks. "Who is it?" The sound of Kingsley's footsteps approaching was followed by his voice coming from behind her. Louisa's face becomes pale as she turns slightly. "It is….” When Kingsley comes into view, he spots Martha standing at the door, and his eyebrows shoot up in surprise. "Martha?" Martha's expression is unreadable as her eyes darts between them. Now knowing the reason for Louisa's sh
Kingsley's heart races in his chest as he stands outside Louisa's apartment. He had been pacing his living room for hours, struggling with his feelings. Ultimately, though, he knows he has to speak with Louisa. They have to be together, no matter what happens. Louisa's face changes from surprise to a kind of reserved resignation as she opens the door. Silently, she moves out of the way to let him in. "Daddy!" Before Kingsley can speak, Liam's voice calls excitedly, his face lighting up with unbridled excitement as he rushes into Kingsley's legs. Kingsley kneels down and embraces Liam tightly. "Hey son. You were missed.” "I also missed you! Will you be here for dinner? Liam questions, hope glimmering in his eyes. With a gentle giggle, Kingsley runs a hand through Liam's hair. "No son, not tonight. But you need to go spend some time playing in your room, okay? I must speak with your mother.” Liam pauses, looking from one parent to the other. "All right, but promise y
Fred had been getting ready for the evening all day. He had selected one of the best bars in the city, renowned for its quiet jazz, cozy atmosphere, and wine selection that would please even the pickiest connoisseur. He had gone above and beyond by placing an advance order for Linda's favorite meal and a bottle of wine that she had mentioned in passing months prior during a conversation at work. Fred is early, straightening his tie and gazing around the table he had reserved at the window, which overlooks the lights of the city. It has to be flawless. Fred's breath sticks in his throat as Linda enters, looking stunning. She accessorized her figure-hugging black dress with subtle jewelry that gleams in the low light. Fred's pulse skips a beat as her hair falls over her shoulders and she walks with assurance. Her voice is pleasant, yet tinged with suspicion as she says, "Fred. It looks so good in here, " as she looks around, admiring the bar. Fred gets up and drags her
Standing before Martha's hotel suite door, Louisa pauses. She knocks softly after her knuckles briefly hover over the glossy wood. The door opens as the faint sound of footfall nears, and Martha appears, her face instantly changing from one of surprise to one of cautious mistrust. "Louisa?" Martha's hand tightens on the doorframe as she speaks sharply. "How are you aware of my lodging arrangements?" Louisa smiles slightly, disarmingly. "Martha, you're my friend. Even if you don't want me to, I would be aware of your location. Martha pauses, obviously surprised by the answer, but her skepticism remains unshaken. Reluctantly, she moves aside to let Louisa in. It is a tidy, impersonal room, the sort of transitory place that is less like a home and more like a waiting room. Louisa calmly and deliberately sits down in one of the window-facing chairs. Martha crosses her arms and stays upright. "Louisa, why are you here?" Martha speaks in a clipped tone. "You're wasting
Although Louisa is hardly aware of it, the R&D department at Palmer Tech is bustling as usual. The cursor on her computer screen is blinking impatiently as she sits at her desk and stares blankly. Her team is busy around her, talking about testing plans and prototypes, but their voices are muffled by the flurry of ideas racing through her head. "Miss Emerson?" A hesitant voice pierces her fog. One of her less experienced developers, Carter, is clutching a tablet. "I want to present the project's revised design specifications to you. I believe we've resolved the—” "Have you checked it again?" Louisa abruptly interrupts him with a snap. Carter blinks in surprise at her tone. "Yeah, but I figured you'd like to—" "Why bring it to me if you think it is good enough? Carter, do your job. I don't have time to obsess over every little thing.” There is silence in the room. Carter takes a step back, holding the iPad as her crew exchange suspicious looks. “I apologize. I'll che
With her mind full of unrelenting thoughts, Louisa frantically packs Liam's school bag as the morning light streams through the curtains. Simultaneously, her hands tucked in a folder of his drawings, a lunchbox, and a water bottle. With his unlimited enthusiasm, Liam, who is already wearing his school uniform, dances about the living room behind her. "Mom! I'm ready!” Liam yells. Louisa looks at the clock and says, "Just a minute, sweetheart." They are late. The doorbell rings as she zips the bag closed and sets it on the table. "I'll get it, Mom!" Liam shouts and runs to the door. "Hold on, Liam!" Louisa begins, but he has already flung it open. "Uncle Hardy!" Liam shouts, his voice full of happiness. "You're here!" Louisa's forehead furrows as she turns. Hardy's towering body fills the entryway as he stands there. There is a glimmer of something in his eyes that Louisa can't quite identify, but he is grinning as usual. "Hey, Liam!" Hardy ruffles his hair. "Ho
Evelyn rests her head on John's chest as she nestles up against him on his soft sofa. Soft music hums in the background and the room is filled with the warmth of the fireplace. John put an arm around her, his fingers idly making patterns on her shoulder while they laughed quietly at a ridiculous story from the day before. However, when the laughing subsides, John becomes aware of Evelyn's aloof expression. He tilts his head to gaze at her and remarks, "You're quiet tonight," gently. "Are you still concerned about us? Or is it about my family again?” With a slight smile on her lips, Evelyn shakes her head. "No, John, you are everything I desire, and regarding your family, I have already made up my mind. I will do whatever it takes to defend our love. That matter has been resolved.” John's hand moves to tuck a stray hair behind her ear as his lips form an excited smile. "That's my girl. As courageous and unyielding as ever.” His voice lowers to a playful whisper as he plants
The rumpled blankets are evidence of Kingsley's restless night as he sleeps, sprawled over his bed. Except for the dim golden light that filters through the borders, the room is dark and subdued, due to the closed drapes. The floor is littered with empty champagne bottles, a silent reminder of his fruitless attempts to block out his thoughts. His tie dangles loosely from the bedpost, and his suit jacket is crumpled in one area. He is startled out of his wits by a knock on the door. Unwilling to confront anyone, he moans, but the knock is louder this time. "Boss? It's Hardy. Are you inside?” Kingsley rubs his hand over his scruffy face and mumbles a curse. "Come in," he rasps at last. With a creak, the door opens, and Hardy enters, his worried features inscribed on his face. He looks around the room right away, soaking in the commotion. The bottles, the messy bed, and his boss's rumpled appearance present a picture that is very different from the calm and authoritat