“Zeke?” Millie breathed.“Millie…” Zeke replied, just as softly, his voice thick with something she couldn’t quite place. They stood frozen for a moment, simply looking at each other. Millie took in the sight of his disheveled hair, the way it fell over his forehead in messy waves, as if he’d been running his hands through it over and over. Normally, she’d have laughed at the look; it was so unlike the polished, composed man she knew. But now, the mere sight of him sent a heavy ache settling deep into her chest.Bypassing her, Zeke stepped inside, letting the door fall closed behind him. His eyes searched hers, intense. “How could you do this to me, Millie?” He questioned, his voice cracking slightly. “Do you have any idea the kind of hell I went through when I got home and realized you were gone? Why did you leave?”Millie swallowed, the weight of his words settling over her like a storm. Still, she tried to keep her expression neutral as she responded.“I stated my reason in the
After several seconds of just standing in dumbfounded silence, Millie took a shaky breath, stepping back. “Zeke, you can't just say something like that.” Her voice was barely above a whisper, but her eyes held a mixture of caution and disbelief.“Why not?” he asked, closing the gap she’d put between them. “It's the truth.”Millie shook her head. “Because you’re only saying this because you feel guilty.” Her voice cracked as she forced herself to continue. “You feel bad about what happened, Zeke, and…you think this is what I want to hear.”“Millie,” he began, his voice softening, “I won’t lie. I did feel guilty. But not because of what we shared that night. I didn’t regret it, not the way I made it sound. The guilt was… it was about me. I felt ashamed because, after waking up, I realized how much I wanted that night—how much I wanted you. And you didn't deserve that, especially after I'd gone after another woman just a few hours before.”Looking away, Millie clenched her jaw. His word
The kiss was intense, filled with a hunger and conviction that left Millie breathless. His hands gripped her tightly, as though he was afraid she’d slip away.When he finally pulled back, he held her face in his hands, his voice a low, fervent whisper. “Does that kiss feel like it was born out of guilt?”Before Millie could answer, his mouth found her neck, leaving a trail of kisses that sent shivers down her spine. His hand slid down her back, pulling her close. “Do my caresses feel like they come from guilt?” He whispered, his breath warm against her skin. A moan spilled from her mouth.Zeke's fingers traced her sides. Grabbing her hand, he brought it between them and placed her palm over the unmistakable heat of his desire. Millie almost gasped because of how big and hard his dick felt in her hand through the fabric of his trousers.“And what about this?” He questioned, his voice thick and raspy.Millie shrugged. “You could’ve taken Viagra.”Zeke froze, pulling back to stare at
“Oh my God.” Thalassa whispered, a stricken look on her face.Kris had just told them about Millie’s situation with Francis, and the shock on her face was mirrored by Luisa’s horrified gaze.After some seconds, she finally found her voice again. “I can’t believe Millie was going through something so horrible... and we never even noticed.”Kris wrapped his arms around her, pulling her close. “Hey,” he murmured, his tone gentle yet firm. “Don’t feel guilty. Millie hid it well. She’s been working with me for two years, and there were times I suspected something wasn’t right... but I could never have guessed it was like this. She didn’t want anyone to see.”“But... she told Zeke, though, didn’t she?” Luisa’s voice was barely above a whisper.Kris shook his head, the faintest sigh escaping him. “Not exactly. Zeke found out by accident. One day, he walked into the guest bathroom here, and Millie was in there, drying out the wet hem of her dress. She’d taken the dress off, and he saw bruises
Since Kris and Thalassa didn't inform Rita beforehand that they would be coming, the older woman was pleasantly surprised to see them.“Kris! Thalassa! Oh, my dears!” Rita exclaimed, practically pulling them both into a hug. She embraced Thalassa tightly, murmuring, “I missed you so much.”Thalassa hugged her back, feeling warmth fill her heart. “Me too, Mum. I’m sorry I didn’t come sooner. I should have.”“Oh, hush with that,” Rita said gently, brushing off her apology. “Now come, you two, sit with me.” She ushered them to the cozy living room, where she settled onto the couch beside them.Just then, Bridget, the housemaid, appeared and greeted them with a fond smile, especially Thalassa. “Would you like anything, dear?”Thalassa perked up. “Actually, we’d love some of your delicious coffee, Bridget. I can’t even remember the last time I had it.”Bridget chuckled, her eyes twinkling proudly. “It’s very good to see you again, dear Lassa. At least you’re not like the other one who…” Sh
Taking in the look of pure joy on Rita's face, Thalassa couldn't help but feel her throat tighten. “There are more pictures.” she said and flipped to the next. The huddled together, scrolling through picture after picture. Rita gushed over each photo of Alexander, her eyes glistening with pride and joy. "He’s got your eyes, Kris. But his smile is all Lassa!" She exclaimed, her voice thick with emotion. Thalassa couldn't stop smiling. Over the last hour or so, the three of them slipped into stories of old memories, laughter bubbling up at the little things. Eventually, Rita asked, “Will you stay for dinner? It would make my evening to have both of you here a little longer.” Kris smiled, but he shook his head gently. "We’d love to, Rita, but we have somewhere we need to be." Rita raised an eyebrow, curiosity sparkling in her gaze. "Oh? And where might that be?" Kris chuckled, glancing at Thalassa with a mischievous grin. “Sorry, but I can't tell you. Actually, I haven’t even to
Thalassa stood frozen as Kris's words hung in the air. Her heart pounded so loudly she thought he might hear it as a mix of conflicting emotions threatened to knock the breath out of her.Kris knelt before her, the warmth in his eyes slowly turning to uncertainty as she remained silent. The longer she stood there, not speaking, the more his smile faltered. Why wasn't she answering?But he tried to reassure himself, pushing the anxiety down. She was just shocked and would respond as soon as the shock wore off. Finally, she responded, but it caught him completely off guard. “No, Kris… I’m sorry,” she said as she shook her head, her voice shaking.Kris blinked. Her words hit him like a punch to the chest. He looked at her, his lips slightly parted, trying to process what she’d just said. He'd misheard, hadn't he?He managed a shaky laugh, “That’s very funny, Lassa.” He expected her to laugh back and admit that indeed, it'd been a joke, but she didn't laugh or smile. Instead, tears beg
As Thalassa entered her house, she moved almost mechanically. As soon as Luisa saw her, she rushed over, her eyes sparkling curiously. “Lassa, how was your outing with Kris? Tell me everything. Where did he take you that he was mysterious about?" She took Thalassa's hand, leading her to the couch with an excited grin. “Come on, give me all the details.”But as soon as they sat down, Luisa's smile faltered, noticing the solemn expression on Thalassa's face. “Hey, what’s with the long face?” she asked, brows knitting together. “And where is Kris? I thought you two would come back together.”Thalassa’s lips parted, but her voice came out as a shaky whisper. “Kris…he asked me to marry him.”Luisa’s eyes widened with delight, and she practically jumped up from her seat, “Oh my God! Sis, that’s amazing! Congratulations! I’m so happy for you both!” She squeezed Thalassa’s hand, leaning closer. “Tell me everything—how did he propose?”Despite herself, Thalassa managed a small smile. “He to
“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