Speaking with Richard brought her no sense of relief although she finally learned her rival’s name: Avalynn Carlisle. What was more she learned the children were in fact fathered by Silas. The news shocked her but not as much as Richard’s explanation. Apparently Silas’s college roommates played a
The problem was their father had no interest in her or such a marriage. He was in love with their mother. On the outside there was nothing wrong with a union between their parents. Their mother also came from a prominent family and would bring prestige to the marriage. The issue was her family w
Jenna slammed her bedroom door pacing and unsure what to do with the rage surging through her. At home she would break something or terrorize her maids but she couldn’t do that here. She couldn’t risk word reaching Richard of her unbecoming antics. Though he thought of her as a daughter even he h
* * * Jenna continued to pace wanting to scream. She never stayed at the brownstone so her contact with Duncan was infrequent. It was clear he had no fear of her and certainly no respect. Even so she couldn’t believe he would support three hellions. Worse yet Opal was also support
Ava woke to gentle caresses as Silas traced her curves with his fingertips. Ripples of pleasure trickled through her body making her shiver. Silas chuckled kissing her shoulder as he continued fondling her. He never tired of the feel of her warm body and smooth skin. “How do you feel
Ava bit her lip processing everything Jenna said. So it hadn’t been Marilynn’s idea to ruin her reputation, well at least not completely. It made sense when Ava thought about it. The plan was too sophisticated and subtle for Marilynn’s usual schemes. “Why?” Ava asked. “Why would yo
“Thomas,” Alexis greeted when she and her brothers found their father’s assistant in the study. “Hey you three, what you got there?” Thomas asked spying the wine bottle in a large plastic bag behind Theo’s back. “You three are too young to drink.” “This isn’t for drinking,
At first Silas was simply puzzled but his confusion quickly turned to outrage. A murderous gleam shone from his eyes and if not for his promise he would have immediately torn out of the study in search of Ava’s tormentor. “When was this?” he managed to speak, enunciating carefully.
“Mom and I were planning to play later,” Alexis said. “You can too if you want.” “Really? Thanks,” Caden immediately brightened. “…So you based the décor on the diner you used to work in,” Macey said after listening to Ava’s brief retelling of her past. “Were you thinki
Silas’s embrace tightened. He hated thinking about the trials she went through without him. Ava leaned against him relishing his comfort and support. Their past was not as important as their future. “You two aren’t going to go all kissy-face, right?” Theo asked. “We’re in public and
Two Months Later The restaurant was lively. Guests had been arriving for the past two hours eager for a unique dining experience. The staff was well-trained providing exceptional service despite the rush. They had been drilled in their duties by the restaurant’s manager, a tyrant the
She nodded. “Going down?” Silas repeated. “Just what have you three planned now?” “It was more like a hunch,” Lexi said. “Sean found something real interesting when he deep-dived Ryker Holdings. So we asked Duncan to keep an eye on someone, just in case.” “D
“Late? A test for what?” Silas asked not following. “Are you serious?” Tracy snorted a laugh. “Ava, you’re going to have to be a little clearer,” Opal chuckled. “Remember, it’s his first time.” Silas glanced from one to the other even more confused. Looking
“There you three are,” Tracy said as the trio returned to the party. “We were just about to send the search party to find you.” “Auntie Tracy, you’re so silly,” Alexis giggled. “How are you feeling mom?” Ava hugged her tight but Alexis didn’t feel any tension or strain in
Finding no support anywhere Jenna finally fled. No one paid her further mind as they watched the kids swarm around their parents comforting their mother. It was a sweet and tender scene and many began to see Silas in a completely different light. * * * Jenna screamed as she storme
Jenna stepped forward intentionally shoving her shoulder and made Ava stumble back. “W-What is—” Jenna stuttered as the video paused. “Who was calling who shameless?” Alexis demanded standing next to her mother arms crossed in front of her chest. “So playing with people’s
The music started slowly with just a few notes announcing the beginning of Beethoven’s Ode to Joy. The simple melody became more complex as notes overlapped and weaved a new organic pattern but always maintaining the integrity of the piece. Conversation lulled as everyone turned their