Cordelia paces the length of her living room in deep thought, her eyes flashing with fury.After a while, she takes a seat in a single chair, crossing her legs and arms in a defensive posture.Her clenched jaw and narrowed eyes, an indication of the anger boiling inside her.Leaning forward with her elbows on her knees, the memory of Louisa's arrogant look flashes in her mind; it stings like salt in a fresh wound.And the humiliating reprimand from Alan afterwards?It has been lingering in her mind like a bitter taste. There is no way she’s letting them go unscathed. Both of them. Not before she's had her own pound of flesh.Picking up her cellphone, she strolls to the window, pauses for a while and then, making up her mind, she taps a contact she hadn't called in a while. A smooth baritone voice answers after it rings twice."Cordelia, you nearly cut me off the other day. To what do I owe this call?”With a steady but tense voice, she replies, "Ryder, please do me a favor."From
Kingsley heaves a heavy breath, the weight of the discovery hitting him harder than he'd thought. He grabs the back of his head, feeling drained from the reels of thoughts scattered in his brain. He had made a decision not to have biological children because of the generic disease in his lineage. He didn't want to subject an offspring of his to the kind of difficult life he had. But now, he has a son? And that son has been right in front of him but he had no idea? The image of Liam's innocent face forms in his head and he closes his eyes, feeling a surge of protectiveness he hadn't expected. The anger he feels toward Louisa begins to shift. He doesn’t know what he would say to her, how he would even begin to confront her about this. But one thing is certain: he is going to be part of his son’s life, and she would have no say in that matter. “Sir?" Hardy calls out. Kingsley turns, his eyes narrowing. “I've been thinking...about your connection to Miss Emerson and her son.
Evelyn arrives at John's place, the next evening, a bottle of champagne in hand and a hesitant smile on her face. She had arrived from work earlier than usual and was just catching up on her favorite TV shows when John texted her to come over. He wants them to spend the evening together, given her first visit was almost ruined by an unwelcomed guest. Although Evelyn is happy at the invitation, the awkward visit of Sophia is still fresh in her mind. She worries if Sophia would barge in like she did last time. However, she pushes it aside, deciding to believe in John's assurances. The door opens just as she raises her hand to knock and John flashes her with a bright smile while pulling her in for a hug. “I've been waiting all afternoon, come on.” He ushers her in, taking her hand in his. Evelyn smiles shyly, “sorry I came late, I was stuck in traffic for sometime. Here, I bought champagne.” “Don't worry, I'll be the one stuck in traffic next time. The champagne is perfect by
The germless, clean fragrance of the hospital room remains in the air as Louisa drapes a thick duvet around Liam, who sits propped up in his bed. He has just been moved from the ICU to his private room, for further monitoring before being discharged finally. His cheeky grin belays the ordeal he's been through. Louisa can't help but return his smile although her tired eyes betray the exhaustion of sleepless nights. Her son is finally awake, stable and being his usual mischievous self again. It is a relief she isn't sure she deserves but she clings to it regardless. “You're doing too much again, mommy,” Liam swoons, his eyes twinkling. “I'm not a baby doll.” Louisa gives a low chuckle, genuinely amused by her son's folly. She brushes a strand of hair off his face. “ironic, coming from a four year old,” She teases him. “Come on, I'm just trying to make sure you're comfortable. Let me mother you a bit before resuming office.” “Don't jest mom,” Liam says, reaching for his favo
“Let's settle this now Louisa,” Kingsley starts, his voice bitter and colder than she'd ever heard it. He hesitates, just outside the threshold of the hallway, facing her squarely. His intent gaze seems to bore into her soul and Louisa wonders what the hell is going on. “I'll ask you again, who is your son's father?” Louisa's palms become clammy and her breath hitch as she realizes that Kingsley still has doubts about her son's paternity. She knew the moment he found out that Liam is her son that things would become hectic, because, for a fact, the odds are actually high. Knowing he is four years old and also has his generic disease is too big for a coincidence. But she didn't expect him to be so invested in the matter despite her refusal to open up. What exactly is it with this man? Does he want to see her shriveled up and dead from anxiety? She blinks and opens her mouth to speak but no sound comes out. Her mind races for something, anything, that would suffice as an a
Evelyn takes out her phone to dial John’s line but an incoming call buzzes through. Glancing at the screen, she realizes it is Louisa. Answering the call, she says, “Hey girl, xup? How's Liam holding up?” “Eve, there's trouble. Can you come here now?” comes Louisa's low response. Evelyn comes to with a start, “is Liam alright? What happened?” “It's not Liam, it's Kingsley. Can you come over?” Louisa continues speaking in a low, unsteady voice. “Am on my way,” Evelyn replies at once, dropping the call and hurrying into her car. Her fingers tightens around the steering wheel as she speeds toward the hospital, her mind racing with different thoughts. And here, she thought she was the only one having a bad day. Why has the day been so hectic? Louisa sounded so afraid on the phone. Her voice had been so shaky, nearly breaking under the weight of her fear. "Kingsley," she says the name quietly to herself and she feels a surge of frustration go through her. She doesn't know
Cordelia types away on her office system, her mind focused on the memo she is preparing, which would be needed the following day for a presentation.Given the importance of that presentation, CEO Alan had explicitly stated that she should get it done herself, rather than passing it on to junior secretaries.Alan had effortlessly switched to professional mode the following week he insulted and humiliated her. It is very characteristic of him to switch like that, like the ashole that he is, until the next time his sexual urge beckons on him for a prey.Then, he'd remember he has a little sex toy nearby who can give him the ride of his life and massage his damned dick.Her phone chimes on the table, indicating an incoming text.Irritated with the interruption, she hisses, but her face brightens up when she glances at the screen and she sees that it is a message from Ryder Lyon.“Cafe Blaire, 3pm. Come with your charm.”She mentally rolls her eyes while putting the phone away.Thankfully
Cordelia's mouth clenches when she takes a look at the charge card Lyon slid over the table. She knows his fee is going to be high but her jaw drops at the ridiculous numbers written on it. She draws a tiny line with her lips and throws it back across the table.Her voice is low but piercing as she hisses, "This is crazy, Ryder. I refuse to pay that. And for your other request,—" she says in a tone subtly laced with contempt, "—you can forget it."Lyon laughs quietly and reclines in his chair, seemingly taking pleasure in her annoyance. "You should understand that negotiating is an art, Cordelia. Additionally, I believe we both understand that you are not here to go empty-handed.”Cordelia glares at him while folding her arms. "Avoid putting me to the test, Ryder. Over a dozen other investigators are present in this city.But none is like me,” Lyon responds with a smooth grin that never wavers. "I possess the contacts, expertise, and dirt you require.You're here because I delive
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