Three Years Later“Mrs. Miller, our stocks have dropped again.”“What?!” Linda Miller shot to her feet, her cold gaze directed at her CFO, who began quivering on her heels.The CFO was afraid of going on, but she knew the news had to be delivered. “Our stocks dropped by 8% just this morning.”Kris was sitting in the chair across from his mother's desk. Seeing the stricken look on her face, he feared she was going to have a heart attack. He quickly rushed to her side.“Mum, are you okay?”“Okay? How can I be okay, Kris? Didn't you hear what she just said? Our stocks have dropped again. 8% in less than a day!” Linda complained.Kris pursed his lips into a grim line, also knowing how serious this was. Within just one year, the stocks and sales of his mother's fashion company had fallen by a whopping 50%. An additional 8% meant they were close to 60% depreciation.And it was all because of a new rival company called TT Fashion.That company hadn't even existed until three years ago, yet i
Thalassa sat on the couch in her bedroom, flipping through pictures of an old, wrinkled woman, her face adorned with a beautiful laughter and warm, welcoming eyes. Some of the photos were of the two of them together, capturing moments of shared joy and laughter.She was so absorbed in the memories that she didn't notice Luisa's presence until she placed a hand on her shoulder.“You really miss her, don't you?” Luisa asked softly.Looking back at the picture on the screen, Thalassa felt her eyes sting with tears. They'd lost Granny six months ago to dementia, which had worsened significantly in her final year.On her deathbed, the old woman had taken Thalassa's hand in her frail ones and confessed that she had realized, somewhere along the years, that Thalassa wasn't truly her daughter, Agnes. Yet, she was still so grateful for all the love and light Thalassa had brought into her life in her last few years on earth.Right after that, she had passed away, still holding Thalassa's hand.
Kris froze. That voice... it sounded familiar. Too familiar. It sounded like the voice of the woman he'd tried his hardest to get out of his heart and mind for the past three years without any success.Suddenly, he was anxious to put a face to the voice, to see the face of the masked woman.“Wow, what an entrance!" His sister, Susan, gushed but instantly shut up when his mother gave her a hard glare.“Meet again?"“What does she mean by that?” the guests whispered among themselves.“Oh, my apologies," the masked woman on the stage said. “You must be confused by what I said. All I meant was that you don't know who I am yet, but I already know most of you.”This got the guests even more curious. Who was this woman who was the owner of TT Fashion? What was her name?“Please, enjoy yourselves at this party," the woman on stage said before the lights finally turned back on.Kris noted that she hadn't even mentioned her name.As soon as she stepped down from the stage, the guests surrounded
It had been three years, and yet when Kris grabbed her by the arm, Thalassa felt the same current as before. It irritated her because she wanted nothing to do with it.“I don't appreciate being touched without my permission, so let go of me, Mr. Miller. And what did you call me?” she said calmly.Kris narrowed his eyes at her. He'd felt her tense up when he called her Thalassa, but now he wasn't so sure, hearing the nonchalance in her voice. He wished he could see the expression on her face, but the damn mask she was wearing made that impossible.Reluctantly, he let go of her arm. “I don't like how you spoke to my mother.”“And how did I speak to her?” she asked.“You were rude,” he pointed out.Thalassa gritted her teeth. He knew the kind of woman his mother was and yet still defended her.“Well, good thing I'm not here to cater to what you like or don't like," she stated. “Besides, I wasn't rude to her. I merely told her what I would tell anyone who wants a meeting with me. She need
“I didn't threaten you with it," Karen sniffed. "I was just scared. I didn't want to give birth out of wedlock and watch our daughter grow up without the stability of a family.”“You know what, let's just end this conversation. It won't—" Kris was still speaking when a soft, sweet, tiny voice cut him off.“Daddy, why are you fighting with Mommy?"Kris turned to find his daughter standing in the doorway, realizing they'd forgotten to close the door. He immediately went to her and dropped to his knees, feeling his chest swell with love as he cupped her small face in his hands.“No, sweetie. Mommy and Daddy aren't fighting. We're just talking.”“Tal...king?”“Yes," Kris nodded with a smile, kissing her on the forehead.His baby. His Tessa. His little bundle of joy. She was the best thing that had happened to him in the past three years. There was no one he cared more about than her.She was the reason why he couldn't call what happened between him and Karen three years ago a mistake. Tha
When it was time for the appointment, Kris fetched his mother and drove to the Baltimore branch of TT Fashion. The building was magnificent, with stunning interiors and exteriors. They took the elevator to the top floor, where the CEO's office was located.They stopped by a desk in the most sophisticated area of the floor, and his mother asked, “Is this the CEO's office?”“Yes," the secretary responded. “How may I help you?”But his mother didn't wait. She turned and tried to open the door when the secretary rushed to stop her.“You can't just enter as you wish!”Indignation filled his mother's face. “How dare you speak to me in that tone? Don't you know who I am?”“Mum!" Kris quietly chastised her, feeling like she was frustrated with everything going on. His mother had always been a proud and self-sufficient person, so having to seek the help of someone else was hard for her.He turned to the secretary. “We have an appointment with the CEO.”“Of course. You must be the Millers. Plea
"Humiliate you? I wonder why you would even think that, Mr. Miller," Thalassa said in her ever-so-sweet innocent voice."You didn't even allow my mother to explain what kind of alliance she had in mind. And since we met you yesterday, all you've done is disrespect her—us."Thalassa raised a brow. "I am a businesswoman, Mr. Miller. I only form alliances where I see profits. Be honest with yourself. If you were in my shoes, would you have wanted to be associated with a company that's on the cusp of bankruptcy?"Kris gritted his teeth, knowing she was making sense, but at the same time, he felt this wasn't just about business. It seemed personal."If you'll excuse me, I have a lot to do," Thalassa said with the intention of opening the door for him, but she had only taken two steps past him when he suddenly grabbed her by the arm, pulling her close to his body. Too close."What are you doing?" she questioned as calmly as she could when her heart was pounding inside her chest."Who are yo
Thalassa stared at the man in front of her. She was surprised but not shocked, because she knew he was coming.Having known him for more than two years even before they got married, she knew how impulsive he could get. That was why she told her security guards not to stop him if he sneaked into the house. She just hadn’t expected him to do it so soon.“Welcome, Kris. I have been expecting you,” she said calmly.He let out a laugh that had no warmth whatsoever. “Is that the excuse you’re going to use now that I’ve caught you?”“Now that you’ve caught me?” She rolled her eyes. “Oh please, don’t be such a drama queen. It doesn’t suit you.”Kris’s eyes blazed as he stared at her. Three years. He finally had her in front of him again after three years. He’d spent so many restless nights thinking about her, wondering where the hell she was, hating himself for it.Yet, now that she was in front of him, he felt a conflicting ball of emotions.“What did you think you were going to achieve with
“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