That evening, Kris went to the Miller mansion to see his daughter. Though the mansion was the last place he wanted to be, he hadn't seen his little girl in almost a week. He’d spoken to her every day over the phone, but it wasn’t the same. As soon as he stepped inside, an excited squeal filled the room. “Daddy!” Tessa sprinted towards him, her small legs carrying her as fast as they could. Kris crouched down, extending his good arm to embrace her, but she crashed into him a little too hard, falling against his injured arm which was still in a sling. He winced. “Careful, sweetheart.” Tessa pulled back, a frown marring her face as her gaze landed on the sling. “What happened to you, Daddy?” Kris hesitated for a moment, realizing he hadn’t thought of an excuse beforehand. Finally, he forced a smile. “Daddy fell down and hurt himself.” A soft giggle escaped her lips. “Clam-thy.” Kris’s brow furrowed in confusion. “What?” “Clam-thy,” she repeated, this time more seriously, as if spe
Linda was livid with indignation. “Kris, how can you ask me to apologize publicly to that woman? That’s going to make people think even less of me.”Kris nodded slowly, his expression calm. “I figured as much.” He hadn’t expected his mother to agree. If anything, she was as stubborn as Thalassa, if not more. “Since you can’t apologize to her publicly, please don’t expect her to do the same for you.”“But it’s different! Can’t you see that?” Linda tried again to reason with him. “We can’t be sure if the embezzlement was truly a misunderstanding. All the evidence pointed to her, and—”“I don’t care what the evidence said, Mum. Not after everything we’ve been through. I believe Thalassa when she says she’s innocent,” Kris snapped, his tone sharper than he intended.“Daddy, are you angry with Grandma?” Tessa’s soft, confused voice broke through the tension.Kris looked down at her and forced a small smile. “No, sweetheart. Daddy isn’t angry with Grandma. We’re just… talking. Do you want t
Thalassa's face twisted in annoyance as she grabbed her phone from her desk, ready to dial Kris’s number and hurl every insult she could think of. But she stopped herself.This was exactly what he wanted—for her to unblock his number and call, even if it was just to tell him off. But she wasn’t going to give him that satisfaction.Placing the phone back on the desk, she turned to the delivery man. “Take it back. Whatever he promised to pay you, tell my secretary to give you double. That should be enough for you to stop delivering anything he sends. Just go back and tell him I refused, but don’t bring them to my office again.”She smirked as the delivery man readily accepted her offer. But she should have known Kris would find a loophole. The next day, an envelope arrived in her office. It contained a movie ticket for The Mask of Zorro, along with a note:‘Dear Lassa,I never understood your obsession with this movie, but I’ll gladly endure the torture of watching it again for your sak
Luisa felt her stomach churn, covering her mouth as though she was going to puke. "How much more despicable can that woman be? She's a woman herself. How could she get involved in something so horrific against other women?" Thalassa’s expression remained impassive. After all the things she knew Linda was capable of, this was just another one to add to the list. "Do you have any evidence to back up these claims?" she asked. Mr. Frey offered a regretful smile. "Yes, there is. Unfortunately, I don’t have it with me. But I have reliable information that all the evidence is hidden by Linda Miller herself. I believe she keeps it in a place no one would suspect. And I bet that place is none other than her own home." Luisa frowned in disbelief and confusion. "Why would she keep incriminating evidence against herself instead of destroying it?" "To protect herself," Mr. Frey explained. "When she met James Miller, she realized she could have the wealth she craved without resorting to il
“Thalassa, security just called. There's a man at the door asking to see you,”Having her breakfast, Thalassa was about to put a piece of pancake in her mouth, but her hand froze midair. Since her return to New York had been abrupt, she'd told no one about it. The only one who knew was Luisa. Unless Luisa had told Zeke.But Zeke wouldn't need permission to get into the house since the house was his. So it couldn't be him.Frowning, she asked, “Did he give a name?”“Kris Miller.” Betty answered.Thalassa sucked in a breath, dropping her fork onto her plate. What the heck was he doing here?Gritting her teeth, she snatched her phone and quickly dialed Luisa’s number.“Thalassa?” Luisa answered, surprised. “We just spoke a few minutes ago. What’s up?”“Did you tell Kris I was in New York?” Thalassa questioned.“Why do you ask?” Luisa gasped, her voice suddenly alarmed. “Don’t tell me he’s there?”“Oh, he’s here, alright. Outside the house.” Thalassa huffed. “You gave him the address, did
A smile tugged at Betty's lips as she listened to the exchange between Kris and Thalassa, but when Thalassa shot her a sharp glare, she quickly wiped it away, replacing it with a stern expression.“What were you thinking, young man? You could catch pneumonia standing in that storm,” she scolded, shaking her head.Kris shrugged, his teeth still chattering. “Wouldn’t have had to if this stubborn woman here had just come out to talk to me once.”Thalassa’s nostrils flared. “You wouldn’t have had to stand there if you’d just accepted that you’re not needed here.”Sensing the rising tension between them, Betty interrupted, glancing at Kris with concern. “You're shivering. I’m going to get you a blanket. You should probably take off your shirt to warm up quicker.”“Thank you." Kris smiled gratefully as he watched the woman leave, then he turned to Thalassa, hesitantly pointing at his shirt."Mind helping? I may not be wearing the sling anymore, but I'm not allowed to overwork my shoulder."
“What the hell do you think you're doing?!”Kris quickly withdrew his hand, clearing his throat “I thought I heard something,”"So you thought that gave you the right to just enter the room? This is not your house, Kris." she fumed, her voice low but still laced with fury.Kris raised his hand in surrender. “You’re right. I’m sorry. I got curious, but I shouldn’t have tried to enter. It won’t happen again.”“Yes, it won't happen again because you're getting out of this house right now!"Kris was taken aback by the sheer anger in her voice despite the fact that she was speaking in a low tone, and how her voice was shaking. And once again, he saw the fear in her eyes.He took a step closer. "Thalassa, I said I was sorry. I-"“Why can’t you just leave me alone, Kris? Did you have to invade my life here too?”Kris could only stare back at her in shock. "Thalassa, why are so agitated simply because I tried to enter this room?"What didn't she want him to see? He stared at her, waiting for
Thalassa’s heart pounded inside her chest so fiercely she thought it might burst. She wanted to tell him. She so badly wanted to tell him he was wrong, that she felt nothing for him. But the lie refused to leave her throat. Because, hell, she wanted him. She still loved him, and no matter how much she wanted to rip him out of her system, her heart refused to cooperate. But could they ever truly be happy together? She didn’t know. All she knew was that tonight, she wanted to forget everything that happened three years ago. She wanted to pretend they were back five years ago, when everything between them was so perfect. She knew it was dangerous. She knew she was going to regret it. But regret could come later. Before she could stop herself, she smashed her lips against his again. Their kiss was just as intense as the first time, but this time, they began moving along the hallway while their tongues battled. Before long, they were in a room. Thalassa didn't care which room it was a
“What’s wrong with my wife, doctor? Is she okay?” Kris questioned at the hospital after the doctor was done examining Thalassa. The doctor offered a reassuring smile. “Mr. Miller, please calm down. Your wife is perfectly fine.” Kris’s heart slowed just a little. “Then why did she faint?” Thalassa was sitting up on the hospital bed. Her brow furrowed, and her lips pressed into a thin line. “Doctor, it’s probably menopause,” she said matter-of-factly. “I haven’t had my period in two months. I know it happens earlier for some women.” She wasn't exactly pleased that she was having her menopause at 40 years old, but she had been expecting it. The doctor shook his head gently, a knowing smile on his face. “Mrs. Miller, it’s not menopause, I assure you.” That didn't help to assuage Kris's worry. “Then…what is it?” The doctor looked between them, savoring the moment before delivering the news. “Congratulations, Mr. and Mrs. Miller. You’re three months pregnant.” For a long second, sile
THIRTEEN YEARS LATERIt was the thirteenth anniversary of Kris and Thalassa’s remarriage, and as had become their tradition, it was a time for celebration with loved ones.The familiar hum of laughter and clinking silverware filled the air, creating a cozy, joyful atmosphere.At the adults’ table, Thalassa sat with her chin resting on her hand, her smile gentle as her gaze lingered on the people who had become their family. Alden and Luisa were seated across from her.Their three children—Andrew, the 12-year-old charmer; Matthew, the mischievous 9-year-old; and Emma, their 5-year-old firecracker—were occupying their seats at the kids’ table.Beside Alden and Luisa were Zeke and Millie, who had flown in from New York with their boisterous 10-year-old triplets, Max, Mia, and Miles.Alex and Tessa were sitting at the adults' table. No longer children, they'd blossomed into young adults. Alex had grown into a tall, broad-shouldered, and cool-headed teenager, much like his father. While Te
The car pulled into a luxurious beachfront resort, its white walls gleaming against the backdrop of the turquoise ocean.Thalassa blinked, the gentle sound of waves lapping against the shore stirring something deep in her memory.They were in Cabo San Lucas.The moment it clicked in her mind, her breath hitched. She glanced out at the golden sands stretching endlessly before her, the rugged cliffs towering in the distance, and the sparkling waters that seemed to stretch into infinity. This wasn’t just any place.It was the place she'd thought she and Kris would be going for their first honeymoon while getting married five years ago. But of course, right after their wedding, Kris had cancelled their honeymoon.Her chest tightened as a surge of emotions threatened to overwhelm her. She turned to Kris, her voice barely above a whisper. “You remembered.”Kris’s lips curved into a soft smile as he reached for her hand, brushing his thumb over her knuckles.“Of course I remembered,” he said
After his aunt disappeared from sight, Kris made his way back to Thalassa on the dance floor. She stood there, her eyes soft and grateful, watching him approach. Her expression said everything—how much his unwavering defense against Cynthia meant to her. When he reached her, she tilted her head and whispered, "Thank you."Kris cupped her cheek, brushing his thumb against her skin. “You don’t have to thank me, love,” he murmured.Straightening, Kris raised his voice to the room, announcing, “Alright, everyone! Let’s get back to celebrating!” The guests cheered, and almost immediately, the jovial atmosphere returned, laughter and clinking glasses echoing in the air.As the music played on, Kris slid his arms around Thalassa’s waist, pulling her close. Before she could react, he dipped his head, nuzzling her neck with deliberate passion. The soft tickle of his lips against her skin sent a shiver down her spine, and she let out a surprised laugh.“Kris,” she whispered, her laughter bub
Kris’s fingers trembled slightly as he slid the delicate band onto Thalassa's finger, his gaze locked onto hers.Her lips quivered, tears glistening in her eyes, and when she looked down at her hand adorned with his promise, she sniffled and quipped through her tears,“Now how am I supposed to top that vow?”A ripple of laughter echoed through the guests, softening the intensity of the moment. Kris chuckled along with them, his own eyes wet as he mouthed, I love you.Zeke stepped forward with the second ring, offering it to Thalassa with a small nod of encouragement. She took a deep breath, steadying her emotions as she began her vows.“Kris,” she started, her voice trembling but firm. “We’ve been through more than a lot of couples ever have since we fell in love. We've experienced more heartaches than a lot of couples have. We've cried more tears than a lot of couples have. But we’ve also survived more than most couples could ever dream of surviving. Despite everything, every obstacl
ONE MONTH LATER... The beach was transformed into a paradise, a breathtaking blend of romance and nature. Rows of white chairs with soft blue ribbons faced an altar made of driftwood, wrapped in delicate white fabric that fluttered in the breeze. Seashells and flowers adorned the aisle, their fragrance mingling with the salty ocean air. Lanterns filled with candles were set along the path, their flames flickering gently despite the sunlight. The waves whispered as they lapped the shore, a soothing background to the laughter and murmurs of the gathered guests. Among the guests sat a healthy Juana, her face radiant with happiness. Though she now had to walk with the help of a cane, her physiotherapist had assured her that she would soon be walking on her own two feet. Kris stood at the altar, his fingers clasped tightly in front of him. He adjusted his tie for the umpteenth time. “Dude, you're acting like you haven't done this before." Alden chuckled, standing to his left as his
Tessa pulled back from the hug first, her little hands clasped together as she looked up at Alex with wide, curious eyes. "Do you want to play with my dollhouse?" she asked, her voice light and full of hope. Alex tilted his head, thinking. "Okay," he said, then quickly added, "But we will play with my toy cars after. Okay?" "Okay!" Tessa agreed with a grin. "Let’s go!" The two children turned and, hand in hand, skipped off together, their laughter echoing. Kris and Thalassa watched them go, a shared warmth blooming between them as they stood side by side. Rising to his feet, Kris turned to Thalassa, noticing the shimmer of tears in her eyes. His brows knitted together in concern as he stepped closer. "What’s wrong?" he asked softly, brushing a stray tear from her cheek. Thalassa smiled, but it was tinged with a bittersweet emotion. "It’s just… Alex has always wanted a little sister. Ever since he was old enough to understand what that meant. I never thought I’d be able to give
Kris and Thalassa both knelt as Alex barreled into their arms, his small frame colliding with Thalassa first. His tiny arms wrapped tightly around her neck as he exclaimed, "Mummy! I missed you, Mummy!"Thalassa’s arms encircled him, her voice trembling as she whispered, "I missed you too, sweetheart. So much." Her fingers gently stroked his hair as their joy filled the room. Despite himself, Kris suddenly felt a slight wave of anxiety.He had only spent a few days in New York with Alex weeks ago. Sure, they spoke on video calls almost daily, but what if the boy didn’t greet him with the same joy? What if Alex still felt distant toward him?But as if sensing his hesitation, Alex, while still hugging Thalassa, stretched one small arm toward Kris.“Daddy, come!” he said, his voice warm and inviting.Kris felt his chest swell with emotion. A grin broke across his face as he leaned into the embrace, his arms encircling both Thalassa and Alex. Together, the three of them shared a family h
Kris was in Tessa's room, leaning against the doorframe, his gaze fixed on the small figure curled up in bed. Her breathing was soft and even, her chest rising and falling rhythmically under the fluffy pink comforter. Moments ago, she had clung to him, her small hands gripping his shirt as she begged him to promise over and over again that he was her daddy, her only daddy, and that he would never let the bad man take her away.Now, she slept peacefully, her expression serene, as though the weight of her fears had finally been lifted after his promises.The sound of soft footsteps behind him pulled Kris from his thoughts. He turned to see Thalassa standing in the doorway, a faint smile on her lips.“It’s done,” she said simply. stepping beside him. “That coward is in jail.”“Good." Kris gritted his teeth together, feeling a surge of relief. That scoundrel was finally where he belonged. But he was confused about one thing.“Why now?” he asked. “You had evidence against him all this tim