As Cass sat in the cold, dimly lit interrogation room, her mind raced with a mixture of frustration and disbelief. She couldn't believe that a simple photograph of her receiving an envelope, which contained nothing more than cash, could lead to her arrest and questioning. The interrogator, a stern-faced detective named Detective Roberts, sat across from her, scrutinizing her every move. Cass maintained her composure, her legal training kicking in as she prepared to defend herself. "Ms. Thorton, the evidence against you is quite compelling," Detective Roberts began, sliding a folder containing the incriminating photograph across the table. "This photograph clearly shows you receiving a large sum of cash from an ex-employee of the pharmaceutical company who has been involved in several cases of bribery, extortion, and blackmail and is currently being investigated." Cass calmly picked up the folder, her eyes scanning the photograph. She knew she had to find a way to explain it. "I u
Cass plopped on the sofa and sighed, There was no need reading the content of the letter in her hand. It had been one month since the case and she had gone to the office to see Mr Peterson but Cass hadn't been allowed to see her boss, in fact she had been handed her sack letter by the security at the entrance who proceeded to supervise her clearing out the desk to the pitied stare of her associates. The day couldn't get any worse, she thought in her heart staring dejectedly at the wall. Suddenly, the door burst open, and Scar rushed in, her face pale and eyes wide with panic. "Cass! Cass!" Scarlet's voice trembled with urgency. "Something terrible has happened!" Cass jolted to attention, concern flooding her senses. "What is it, Scarlet? What's wrong?" Scarlet struggled to catch her breath, her words tumbling out in a rush. "Mrs. Anderson's child, the one in a coma... he... he didn't make it. he is gone!" A wave of shock and sorrow washed over Cass. The weight of the news bore d
The air in the clothing store felt heavy as Cass browsed through the racks of clothes, her mind occupied with the weight of recent events. It had been one long month since she had last seen or spoken to Jake, her heart shattered by the news of his engagement to Stacey. In fact, he had blocked her number, and Scar and Amanda had not been spared either. Lost in her thoughts, Cass suddenly froze as she caught sight of a familiar figure approaching. Her heart raced, hoping against hope that it wasn't who she feared it to be. But as Jake and Stacey came into view, any lingering doubt evaporated. Their eyes met, and for a moment, time seemed to stand still. Cass's emotions surged to the surface, a mix of hurt, betrayal, and anger coursing through her veins. She swallowed hard, steeling herself for the confrontation she knew was inevitable. Jake's voice, laced with condescension, broke the silence. "Well, well, if it isn't Cass. I heard you've been having quite a tough time lately and y
The familiar sound of a phone ringing echoed through the room, momentarily interrupting Cass from her reminiscence. The number looked unfamiliar to Cass, so she answered tentatively, "Hello?" "Hello, Ms. Thorton, This is Marcus." Cass was surprised; he had never asked for her line. He always called on her office line or sent her a mail. "Good Afternoon Mr. Wells. Do you need anything?" "Shouldn't you drop the title as my fiancee?" Marcus said teasingly "What do you want, sir?" Cass reiterated "Well, I want to take you out tonight for our first date" Marcus said casually. Cass's heart fluttered, " You don't need to do that, sir." "I insist. I need you to buy a luxurious red dress at Signature Sartorial; You can come for my card. I will have the driver pick you up anywhere you want. Don't act frugal, I repeat, don't act frugal," Marcus said Cass's mouth was wide open when he hung up on her; The audacity of this man to think she wasn't capable of dressing nicely on her own. She
Marcus took a sharp breath, "You look breathtaking but that is not a red dress" He said with a hint of annoyance "Good evening, Marcus," Cass greeted him with a playful smile. "I hope the blush dress meets your standards." Marcus's expression softened slightly, but a hint of annoyance lingered in his eyes. "It's not the red dress I requested, Cass," he replied again, his tone tinged with disappointment. Cass feigned innocence, her eyes sparkling mischievously. "Oh, I do apologize, Marcus. I thought a blush dress would be more fitting for the occasion. Besides, red can be so predictable, don't you think?" Marcus sighed, "You always manage to surprise me, Cass" unable to hide a small smile "Fair enough. You do look stunning, regardless." The evening unfolded, with the attentive staff serving a delectable feast. As Marcus had predicted, their presence in the VIP section drew curious glances and discreet whispers from other patrons. People couldn't help but steal glances at the eligib
Brr...Brr... Her phone rang; it was a call from Jake. Cass pursed her lips; what was his deal? They had not spoken since the humiliating encounter at the store; now, he was not only sending messages but calling her. With a smirk, she accepted the call. "Hello, Jake. To what do I owe the pleasure?" Scar and Amanda turned their heads so fast it caused a whiplash. Cass put her fingers to her lips to silence them. Jake's voice came through, filled with frustration and annoyance. "Cass, what the hell is going on? I can't believe you're parading around with some billionaire. Do you think this is going to make me jealous? Because let me tell you, it's not working." Cass couldn't help but laugh at his words. "Whoa, slow down, cowboy, you are tripping on your words. Oh, Jake, you're still as predictable as ever. Believe it or not, this date has nothing to do with you. And jealousy? That ship sailed a long time ago when you got engaged to Stacey, remember." There was a moment of silence o
Father? Cass was dumbstruck. Marcus's father, Mr. Gabe Wells, was Standing tall at around six feet; he possessed an air of authority and confidence that commands attention. Mr. Gabe's ruggedly handsome features were so similar to Marcus's, with a strong jawline, chiseled facial structure, and piercing, intelligent eyes that seemed to hold a wealth of life experiences. His salt-and-pepper hair, expertly styled, added to his distinguished appearance. Despite the touch of gray, Gabe's hair retained a lustrous sheen, hinting at a meticulous grooming routine and attention to detail. Dressed in a tailored suit that fitted him perfectly, Mr. Gabe exuded elegance and refinement. The fabric of his suit draped flawlessly over his broad shoulders and trim physique, accentuating his commanding presence. Mr. Gabe Wells was the most powerful figure in the city, Heck, in the entire country. He was known to be a recluse and only attended ten functions in a year, but here she was, staring right at
Cass couldn't help but ask, "So... Who is Alex?" Marcus's face tensed up, his eyes narrowing slightly. The mention of Alex seemed to stir up a mix of emotions within him. "Alex is my stepbrother," he explained, his voice tinged with frustration. "My dad had an affair and he was the result. It's a long story I don't want to get into now but he's always wanted what I have, anything I get, he wants to take from me be it cars or women" "He had an affair with my ex-girlfriend Victoria, I caught them and now they are married." Cass's eyebrows furrowed as she processed the information. She couldn't help but feel a surge of empathy for Marcus, knowing the personal struggles he faced within his own family. "Was your father aware?" Cass asked Marcus laughed "He was" "He is not exactly your ideal image of a father" Marcus continued scornfully "He simply said and I quote "You aren't married to her yet, let your brother have her" and that was the end of that discussion". "That's why I initi
Her belly? What was he talking about? Marcus exchanged a quick, puzzled look with Cass before making his way to the living room. As he entered, he was met with an unexpected sight. Amber, his ex-girlfriend, sat on the sofa, a wry smile playing on her lips. "Amber!!! What are you doing here?" He asked with a calmness that betrayed the surprise and shock he felt She stood up gracefully, revealing a bag she had used to cover her belly. The shock on Marcus's face was palpable as he saw her visibly pregnant. Cass, standing behind Marcus, felt a mixture of surprise and discomfort. "Marcus, darling, it's been a while," Amber greeted, her tone dripping with a calculated sweetness "What are you doing here, Amber?" Marcus asked again, struggling to conceal his astonishment. Amber's smile widened as she surveyed Marcus and then turned her gaze to Cass. "I couldn't believe you'd move on so quickly, let alone get married just two months after our breakup." Marcus frowned, his mind racing to
Marcus clenched his jaw as the chauffeur brought the sleek black car to a halt in front of Judge Richards's imposing two-story home. The anger coursed through him like molten lava, threatening to spill over at any moment.Cass glanced at him, her eyes wide with confusion and curiosity, Where are we? What is going on? were the thoughts that passed through her mind.All she wanted to do today was read a book and lounge in the house in preparation for work tomorrow but Marcus had barged in and asked her to get dressed without any explanation as to their destination."Where are we?" She asked but Marcus didn't have the patience to explain."Come on," he growled, practically dragging her out of the vehicle. His long strides carried them quickly up the cobblestone path as Cass struggled to match his steps, past immaculately trimmed hedges and fragrant rose bushes.The heavy oak doors swung open, revealing the anxious face of Judge Richards, whose grey eyes darted between Marcus and Cass lik
Cass groaned, stretched, and cracked her neck. She looked at the clock it was 9 p.m already!!! She had been working for seven hours and the only break she had was when Marcus had brought her a snack board because of her grumbling tummy.She looked at Marcus, he was still hard at work. The crooked way his glasses sat on his face made him look like a sexy librarian, Cass giggled.As if sensing her gaze on him, Cass saw Marcus smile"Take a picture, it would last longer" Marcus smirkedCass rolled her eyes "I was only wondering if it would be polite for me to leave before my Boss" Cass replied sarcastically"Your 'Boss' will be done in five minutes and we can leave together" Marcus said "Five minutes, huh?" Cass teased, leaning on the edge of Marcus's desk. "Are you sure? Because I'm starting to think you enjoy keeping me here for the view"Marcus chuckled, True to his word, Marcus wrapped up his work at exactly five minutes. Once the last document was saved, he stood up and stretched,
Cass followed Marcus into the dimly lit study, her eyes adjusting to the soft glow of lamps that illuminated the room. Her gaze fell upon a new and neatly arranged desk, chair, and drawer filled with files that had been set up in the study for her with her nameplate on the desk."Consider this your new office away from the office," Marcus said with a warm smile, his hands on his waist, his deep voice showing how proud he was of his efforts. "I wanted you to feel comfortable working with me here at home.""Thank you, Marcus." Cass's voice was a mixture of appreciation and surprise. "Wow, I wasn't expecting this" her voice choked up as she walked to and sat on the chair.She let out a startled scream when she saw him bent so close to her, his face just a few inches from hers."I just wanted to show you a file on your computer, What did you think I was going to do? Kiss you? I do deserve a kiss though, for my efforts" Marcus said with a mischievous glint in his eyesCass blushed and hit
The sun's rays dazzled the garden in a symphony of light and shadow. The gentle breeze whispered through the tall grass, swaying them in agreement.Marcus approached the garden where he saw Alex kneeling by a bed of dahlias, their vibrant colors like jewels strewn across the earth.Alex glanced up, catching sight of Marcus, and smiled. He bent down to clip a crimson dahlia, its petals soft and velvety under his touch."Ah, Marcus," Alex said, straightening up and holding the flower out to him. "Congratulations on your acceptance by the board.""Thank you, Alex," Marcus replied warily, taking the offered blossom and standing beside his brother. Something was unsettling in his brother's tone, an ominous undertone that made the hairs on the back of his neck stand on end."Isn't it curious how flowers bloom?" Alex mused, gazing at the dahlias around them. "They push through the soil, reach for the sky, only to be cut and stopped from growing.""What are you getting at, Alex?" Marcus asked,
Cass and Stacey both turned to see Marcus standing there, eyeing Stacey with his fists clenched as though he was restraining himself. "I am tired of being made a fool of, I let you go the last time with a warning because of the relationship I have with your father but there are only so many chances I can grant" he said threateningly.Stacey stood there with her mouth hung open as she stared at Marcus's face. His eyes were blazing like fire that could make anyone run for their lives. When did he get here, She had been sure Cass was alone.Cass felt her breath hitch as he stood up for her. A swell of relief washed over her as she watched him"I don't want to see you again, you have 2 seconds to walk away NOW or I will not be held accountable for whatever happens" Marcus said in a threatening voice.The whole mall was quiet and everyone was staring at them with their mouths hung open, this was a scene out of a telenovela.Marcus held her hand and looked into her eyes," Are you okay?" He
Cass made her way to the kitchen, trying to calm her shaking hands. She poured herself a glass of water and took a long sip, trying to steady her nerves.She didn't know why she felt so guilty, perhaps because of the tense atmosphere between them.She could hear Marcus being welcomed by the butler as he was making his way through the house. She took a deep breath and composed herself "Oh, here you are, How was your day?" Marcus asked casually like he had not gone incommunicado for a weekCass was angry and she felt like a vein was going to pop in her head but if this was the game he wanted to play, then she could play it too."It was alright. I just puttered around here," she replied nonchalantly as if nothing had happened between them. She kept her gaze away from him and moved to the counter to busy herself with some fruit. Marcus watched her for a few moments in silence, and Cass could feel the tension growing unbearable in the room. Just when it seemed like a scream was going to
Cass gasped, her hand flying to her mouth. The picture frame shook in her other hand as she stared at the familiar face smiling up at her. Miranda Wells. The woman who had swooped into Cass's life after her mother's death like a guardian angel, promising to support her and Scar's education. And she had kept that promise. Cass turned the frame over with trembling fingers, reading the inscription on the back. "To my darling Marcus, Love always, Mom." "Marcus's mom," she whispered. A wave of realization crashed over Cass, and she drew in a sharp breath. What was she doing here, in this lavish villa filled with Miranda's presence? Cass's mind reeled as she tried to make sense of it all, was it fate? Marcus had dropped her here, insisting it was for her safety after their rushed wedding. But now Cass wondered if there was more to it. Did he want her to uncover his family's secrets? The thought left a bitter taste in her mouth. She didn't know this man at all, she realized. Not like she
Cass stood on the edge of the dance floor, her beautiful hazel eyes narrowed in disbelief as Marcus delivered the shocking news. The music swelled around them, but all she could hear was the thunderous beating of her own heart."Your safety is paramount to me, Cass," Marcus insisted, his blue eyes searching her face for understanding. "I wouldn't ask this of you if I didn't think it was necessary.""Of all the times to bring this up, Marcus!" Cass exclaimed, her voice barely audible over the din of the wedding celebration.She glanced around at the smiling faces of their guests, blissfully unaware of the turmoil churning just beneath the surface. "I know it is fake but this is our wedding day, and you want me to pack up and move to your isolated villa? That means I would not be able to come to work too"Marcus gripped her hands gently, trying to convey the seriousness of the situation. "I know it's sudden, but it's the best way to protect you from Alex and his vindictive games. I don'