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
With a soft hiss, the glass doors of Palmer Tech's conference room open. Louisa and Evelyn emerge, their conversation brimming with energy. Louisa's eyes gleam as she continues, "Evelyn, I'm telling you, Aurora is going to redefine everything and thankfully, the board is now on board with it “ With a laugh at Louisa's deliberate play on words, Evelyn brushes a lock of her auburn hair behind her ear. “It's time for them to see what we do. Now, if we could just follow the schedule—” Evelyn is interrupted as Louisa's phone vibrates in her hand. Louisa's brows furrow as she looks at the screen. Palmer Lobby Receptionist: A woman has been waiting for you for over two hours, Miss Emerson. She insists she won't leave unless she sees you.” "That's rich," Louisa whispers to herself. "What's the matter?" Evelyn asks, seeing her change in attitude. “It seems like someone has been waiting to see men since the meeting began. It sounds serious.” Evelyn's eyebrow shoots up. "Do you
In Louisa's office, Martha sits across from Louisa and Evelyn, her hands shaking as she clenches them together. With a look of both surprise and expectation on their faces, Louisa and Evelyn leaned forward on the couch. Martha utters in a tremulous voice, "I don't even know where to begin. But you two need to know." Evelyn reaches across and puts a hand on her knee. “Martha, take your time. We are here and we're not in a hurry.” Louisa nods in agreement and gives an encouraging smile. Martha inhales deeply and clears her throat. "You recall how horrible it was after the accident five years ago, don't you?" She starts, facing Louisa. Louisa's face tenses as the memories of that afternoon return. “I remained by your side until the ambulance arrived. They said there was nothing I could do, but I didn't want to go. The doctor that came with the ambulance declared you dead on the spot and you were taken with them.” Martha nods. “In a technical sense, they were correct. I heard I
Louisa grips her phone hard as she paces her apartment. She had made several calls to Kingsley's cell phone to no avail. The more time goes by, the more concerned she becomes. He doesn't usually disregard her calls. She finally calls Hardy out of desperation. "Hardy, have you seen Kingsley?” She asks, trying not to sound urgent. He's not answering his phone." Hardy says in a composed but worried tone. “He's most likely at home. He left work early, saying he didn't feel too good. He appears stressed and worried since the afternoon but I don't know why. I'm worried about him too. “ Louisa's heart falls even further. “Thank you, Hardy. I'll see how he's doing.” She immediately picks up her keys and coat and makes her way to Kingsley's estate. As she gets closer to the door, the vast estate's magnificence does not reassure her as it looms in the dusk light. The door is opened and she is greeted cordially by the housekeeper, a courteous old woman. "Good evenin
The days spent in captivity are a haze of suffering, starvation, and hopelessness. Cordelia's formerly immaculate blouse is now torn and smeared with blood and grime as she lies crumpled in the warehouse corner. Her stomach churns from starvation, and the bruises on her body throb in sync with her pounding heart. She can no longer remember the days. Her world has been reduced to the flickering light overhead, the cold concrete floor, and the laughter of her captors. Cordelia's mind is racing with questions that she is unable to respond to. Is Alan aware? For the hundredth time, she wonders. “He must, of course.” She mumbles inaudibly. “It had never happened to me before that I missed work for three days in a row, much less without even a single text or email. He would have known. He would have inquired. He hasn't arrived, though. Nobody has. This simply means Alan is on board with whatever Marie decided.” She feels a new wound that is deeper than the ones on her body
Kingsley's office was filled with golden hues as the early sun shone through the huge windows. Anticipation swirls in his chest as he looks at his table clock, for the hundredth time, his heart pounding. He has been waiting for Martha all morning. Surely, she is going to show up again now that her identity is confirmed. Who would have thought he'd get to see her again after twenty-one years? He had personally instructed the receptionist in the lobby to see her any time she came. And now, he can practically feel his blood boiling from expectation and anticipation. He can't wait to see it again after all the lost years. Forcing himself to get some work done, he flips open a file on his table and begins to work on it. But just then, Helen, the receptionist’s call comes through. “Mr Wills, the lady from yesterday is here, Sir, and I've sent her up as you instructed.” “Thank you, Helen,” Kingsley replies hastily and drops the call immediately. His pulse thunders in his ears
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