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Chapter SixtyNine
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2024-12-05 20:23:14
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The "EX" Factor Chapter Seventy
Caleb's remarks cut through the clamor of the gala, low and methodical. "I said, what's going on here, Samantha?" I gripped my champagne flute tightly, as if the frail glass could somehow anchor me. My glance flickered to the crowd, but no one seemed to notice the tension building at the room's edge. "I don't understand," I murmured, throwing a confused tone into my voice. My words came out more steadily than I expected, but my chest tightened. Caleb tilted his head, his gaze sharpening. "You don't understand?" He made a short step forward, his glare scorching. "Do not play games with me. What's this? Wife? Tyler Will's wife? "How, Samantha?" I drew a breath, my pulse pounding against my temples. The falsehood developed before I could stop it, the words coming forth like if rehearsed. "It's not a game," I said, each syllable measured and deliberate. "I'm Tyler's wife. We've been married for years. His brow furrowed, and disbelief flashed across his gaze. "Married? Since wh
Last Updated : 2024-12-06The "EX" Factor Chapter SeventyOne
Tyler strode briskly beside Samantha, his hand resting on the small of her back as they navigated the sparkling crowd. Samantha was well aware of the strain in his jaw, despite his placid expression. Tyler appeared to morph as soon as they left Caleb behind, his body language emitting a quiet assurance that made her feel as if he was protecting her from something... or someone. Samantha, on the other hand, appeared uneasy. Her thoughts raced, entwined with remorse and frustration. Caleb's voice replayed in her head, his agony and astonishment like needles pricking her skin. She had just harmed someone who did not deserve it. And for what? To continue this ludicrous charade? She stared at Tyler, who appeared curiously satisfied. There was no doubt he had spotted Caleb's presence and seize the opportunity to assert his position. The arrogant gleam in his eye said it all. "So, what was that back there?" Samantha inquired gently, trying to mask her annoyance. Tyler's smile de
Last Updated : 2024-12-08The "EX" Factor Chapter SeventyTwo
Typically, the hum of the gallery provided comfort. Today, it was oppressive. I sat behind the counter, flicking through invoices without actually seeing the words. Margaret's voice repeated in my head, her shrill, scornful tone ripping into my self-esteem like a vulture tearing through carrion. * "Do away with her.. or I'll help you do it." * It wasn't the first time I had been told I wasn't good enough for the Wills family. But hearing it again, after everything, seemed like going back to the beginning. Tyler had stood up for me. I saw it in his eyes last night as he walked away from Margaret. But did that indicate he really thought I belonged in his world? I closed my eyes and sat back in my chair, the weight of the previous days weighing down on me. Margaret's comments were one thing, but Caleb's visage and voice had tormented me throughout the night. His eyes were filled with disbelief, as if he were looking at me for the first time. And he wasn't wrong, right? I did
Last Updated : 2024-12-09The "EX" Factor Chapter SeventyThree
I looked at Tyler, his eyes narrowing slightly as he repeated his question. "Who's messaging you, Sam?" The air between us was dense with anxiety. My phone felt like it weighted a hundred pounds in my hand, the screen dimming but the words remained etched in my memory. Ignoring me will not make me go away. I could not tell him the truth. Not now. Not after all. "It's just a friend," I said calmly, although my heart racing like a jackrabbit. "Someone from the gallery." Tyler's eyes lingered, looking for flaws in my demeanor. I held his gaze, forcing myself to remain calm even as my palms sweated. "A friend," he repeated, his tone bland, but there was a hint of uncertainty. "Yes," I said firmly, placing my phone in my pocket. "Is that a problem?" He took out a deep breath and shook his head. "No. "I just thought..." "You thought what?" I insisted, folding my arms as if I were the offended person. It was easier to remain on the defensive than to let him explore farther.
Last Updated : 2024-12-09The "EX" Factor Chapter SeventyFour
As I placed a new item on the center display.. a vibrant abstract painting that seemed to pulsate with life beneath the afternoon sun.. the gallery was filled with the gentle buzz of conversation. A small group of people behind me were whispering their enthusiasm, and I felt a brief sense of satisfaction at their amazement. Here, at least, my work wasn't crumbling. "Pardon me, miss?" With joy in her voice, one of my employees called out. Someone has come in to inquire about that artwork in the corner. Shall I inform him that it is reserved? I brushed my hands off my skirt and turned. "Which one?" Before she could answer, the smooth, familiar tone of a voice pierced through the air. "I actually want to hear your personal opinion on it, Samantha." My heart stumbled over itself as I froze. Caleb. His hands were casually tucked into the pockets of his fitted coat as he stood by the far wall, his presence as imposing as ever. His lips formed a tiny smile that could disarm an
Last Updated : 2024-12-09The "EX" Factor chapter SeventyFive
The gentle buzz of discussion in the Wills family estate dining room faded as Tyler stormed through the spacious hallways, his mouth set and his strides purposeful. The quiet click of his shoes on the smooth floor reflected his growing irritation. The weight of what he'd overheard pressed on him, with each word of Margaret's gossip about Samantha replaying in his head. He opened the double doors to the parlor without knocking. Margaret was near the grand piano, with an exquisite tea set on the tiny table in front of her. She looked up, shocked by the intrusion, but her surprise soon changed into a smug smile. "Tyler," she greeted, pretending innocence. "What a nice surprise. Would you like to join me for tea? He rejected the invitation and closed the doors behind him with a decisive click. "We need to talk." Margaret raised an eyebrow and reclined slightly in her chair. "Oh? "About what?" "About the rumors you're spreading about Samantha," he spoke frankly, his voice cutt
Last Updated : 2024-12-11The "EX" Factor Chapter SeventySix
The tap-tap-tap of my fingers on the keyboard broke the silence of the gallery office. It was late, way past the time I should have locked up and gone home, but the questions churning in my head wouldn't let me sleep. Caleb. His statements and actions didn't add up. Bella's warnings lingered with me, even if I attempted to ignore them. The screen's illumination illuminated my face as I leaned in, browsing through articles, company reports, and obscure mentions of his name.At first, nothing looked alarming—just a few generic write-ups about his company's success and charitable contributions. But then, lurking between the lines, I discovered the break. A lawsuit in London. Terms like *breach of contract*, *embezzlement*, and *fraud* stood out to me. A scandal in which former employees claimed they were silenced. The pieces were vague, with few specifics, as if someone had labored hard to hide the truth. The Caleb I knew, or believed I knew, did not fit this picture. The gentl
Last Updated : 2024-12-11The "EX" Factor Chapter SeventySeven
Samantha flung the stack of printed documents onto the table as soon as she approached him, her hand quivering but her stare unwavering. "Explain this." Caleb, seated comfortably and holding a glass of wine, lifted an eyebrow. His lips twisted into a languid grin, as if expecting her to tell a joke."Sam, if this is one of your expensive pranks, you really outdid yourself this time." He chuckled while reaching for his drink. She did not laugh. She did not even blink. His smile wavered. "What's this?" he inquired, his tone more guarded. "Look at it," she said, her tone stern and almost chilly. Caleb placed down the glass and took up the papers, frowning slightly. When his eyes scanned the top of the page, his entire demeanor changed. His shoulders tensed, and his knuckles turned white as he grabbed the paper's edges. He returned her gaze with a pallid countenance and a shattered composure. "Where did you get this?" he said, his voice low, nearly whispering. "That's not t
Last Updated : 2024-12-11
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The "EX" Factor Chapter Onehundredthirty (FINALE)
"I now pronounce you husband and wife."The words reverberated through the air as Samantha felt Tyler's warm hands cup her face. His blue eyes were so intense that her breath caught, and before she could blink, his lips were on hers. The kiss was slow and deep, sending goosebumps down her spine, and it sealed a commitment far bigger than any previous pledge. As guests stood clapping and whistling, cheers broke up all around them. White rose petals flew across the air, captured by the gentle evening breeze. Samantha let out a frantic giggle against Tyler's lips as he pulled her in closer. "We did it," she muttered. "We did," he said softly, leaning his forehead against hers. "And I'm never letting go." Samantha's heart felt fuller than ever as they went down the aisle together. Caleb was gone, the past was behind them, and a bright future awaited them. *** Six months later. Samantha sat in bed, fatigued but happy, her fingers tracing the newborn's small features cuddled again
The "EX" Factor Chapter OneHundredTwentyNine
Four days later. Samantha stood in front of the mirror, her heart racing against her ribs. The smooth ivory fabric of her bridal gown clung to her body like a second skin, with beautiful lace accents cascading down her arms. It should have been the best day of her life. But something seemed odd. She inhaled softly, attempting to push the anxiety away. Perhaps it was simply nerves. After everything they'd been through... Tyler's health issues, her father's death, the inheritance drama, Caleb's reappearance... it was understandable to be on edge. A gentle knock on the door made her jump. Bella looked inside, her eyes lit up. "Sam, you look…" She placed a hand on her chest. "Breathtaking." Samantha smiled, but Bella's countenance immediately changed, indicating that something was awry. "You okay?" Bella inquired, coming closer. Samantha hesitated before shaking her head. "I do not know. "I just have this feeling." Bella frowned. "The bad kind?" Samantha nodded. Befo
The "EX" Factor Chapter OneHundredTwentyEight
Samantha sat on the examination table and gripped the edge as the small, clean exam room was filled with the continuous beep of a monitor. With his leg hopping restlessly and his gaze darting between her and the closed door, Tyler sat next to her. "Blake, Samantha?" The physician came in, leafing through the file. She smiled politely and professionally and took the stool across from them. Samantha took a deep breath. "I am that." After looking over the chart, the doctor looked directly at Samantha. "Your bloodwork results have been returned." She hesitated. "You are expecting a child." There was a slight tilt to the room. Samantha blinked. "What?" The physician's grin grew softer. "You are roughly six weeks pregnant." From next to her came a sudden intake of breath. When Samantha looked back, she saw Tyler transfixed, his eyes wide, his lips slightly apart. He remained silent for a minute. Then his face changed, as though the realization had to come gradually. "You're..." He g
The "EX" Factor Chapter OneHundredTwentySeven
Despite the frantic energy pulsing through him, Tyler's hands remained calm as he adjusted the final candle on the table, filling the air with the aroma of fresh roses. As he had intended, the restaurant was deserted; he had rented out the whole place for the evening. The tastefully arranged table was bathed in a golden glow while soft instrumental music played in the background. He rolled his shoulders back and let out a breath. It has to be flawless tonight. He turned when he heard a familiar voice at the door. "Tyler?" Samantha stood in the doorway, looking both surprised and intrigued. With her hair falling over her shoulders, she looked stunning in a form-fitting emerald dress. Tyler took a deep breath. God, she's stunning. She glanced at the intimate scene and then back at him. "What's all this?" He moved forward and extended his hand. "Supper. Only us. After a moment of hesitation, she inserted her fingers inside his. Her tender touch stabilized and anchored hi
The "EX" Factor Chapter OneHundredTwentySix
Tyler exhaled sharply as he pushed himself up from the therapy bench, sweat dampening his shirt. His muscles trembled from exertion, but he gritted his teeth and steadied himself. Samantha stood nearby, watching him with careful eyes, ready to step in if he faltered. “Easy,” she murmured. He shot her a look. “I’m fine.” She crossed her arms, one brow lifting. “You nearly collapsed last week. Forgive me if I don’t take your word for it.” Tyler sighed but didn’t argue. Truth be told, he still felt the weakness lingering in his limbs, the occasional dizziness that reminded him he wasn’t at full strength yet. But he was improving. And that mattered. The physical therapist, a middle-aged man named Greg, clapped him on the shoulder. “That’s enough for today. You don’t want to push too hard.” Tyler wiped a hand over his face and nodded. “Got it.” Samantha handed him a water bottle, and as he took a sip, her fingers brushed against his. It was a small, fleeting touch, but it g
The "EX" Factor Chapter OneHundredTwentyFive
Samantha paced the clean hallway, the only sound in the otherwise quiet room being the steady tapping of her heels on the shiny hospital floor. She detested medical facilities. I detested having to wait. She glanced at the clock, her arms folded tightly across her chest. Four hours. Tyler had spent four long, excruciating hours in surgery. She turned as she felt a hand on her shoulder and saw Owen standing next to her, holding a coffee cup in one hand and wearing a worried expression. He offered her the cup and added softly, "You must sit." Samantha gave a headshake. "I am unable to. Not until I'm certain he's alright. Owen leaned against the wall and moaned. "You have stood here the whole time. You're going to lose your mind. The lump in her throat was swallowed. "What happens if something goes right?" Her voice broke. "What if..." "Cease." Owen spoke in a friendly but stern tone. "Tyler is powerful. Additionally, he is being treated by one of the nation's top surgeons
The "EX" Factor Chapter OneHundredTwentyFour
Samantha's heels hitting the marble floor echoed down the long hallway. Her phone buzzed in her fingers, and another notice appeared on the screen. SCANDAL UNVEILS: CALEB WINTERS ENGAGED IN FRAUD, EMBEZZLEMENT, AND CORPORATE SABOTAGE. She barely had time to breathe before another one struck. JAMES BLAKE'S LEGACY RESTORED: NEW EVIDENCE CLEARS HIS NAME.Her father's name. She grabbed the phone tighter, exhaling gently as she pushed through the spinning doors of the company's offices. The lobby was a bustle of activity, with reporters stationed outside, employees chatting in tight clusters, and security on high alert. It had only been twelve hours since Owen revealed the incriminating proof, yet the corporate world had already imploded. "You did it," Owen said beside her, his voice low but forceful. Samantha caught his gaze. He appeared weary, his tie unbuttoned and his sleeves rolled up after the all-nighter they had pulled. But there was a quiet contentment in his eyes, the sa
The "EX" Factor Chapter OneHundredTwentyThree
The sound of my phone buzzing woke me up. I sat up abruptly, my heart thumping as the faint light of Tyler's hospital room formed frightening shadows on the walls. The sterile aroma of antiseptic entered my nose, grounding me in the moment, but my mind was already racing. I reached for my phone, shivering my fingers as I unlocked it. A slew of notifications illuminated the screen. News notifications. Social media tags. Emails. Bella's name appeared on the screen, and I immediately picked up. "Sam, have you seen it?" Her voice was sharp and urgent. I swallowed hard, already dreading the response. "Seen what?" "Caleb has just gone public. He revealed critical information regarding your father's business. He describes it as a 'legacy of corruption.' "The media is all over it." My face was emptied of blood. My hold on the phone intensified. "Sam, are you there?" I forced myself to breathe. "I'm here." But I was not. I was in a downward spiral. My father had only been gon
The "EX" Factor Chapter OneHundredTwentyTwo
I didn't think twice. Tyler's sickness worsened, so I temporarily closed the Art display. There are no explanations, no room for negotiation. My career had been my anchor for years, but just now, nothing was more important than being there for him. Now, as I sat in the dim hospital room, the only sound being the beeping of machines, I watched Tyler fall asleep. His face looked paler than usual, and he breathed slower and more measured. My fingers wrapped around his, and my thumb brushed lightly against his skin. I wanted to relieve his misery. I wished I could go back in time and make other choices to avoid this occurring again. But all I could do was stay here. The door creaked open, and Bella slid inside, holding two cups of coffee. She handed me one without saying anything and sat down beside me. “How’s he doing?” she inquired quietly. I exhaled and stroked my temple. "For the time being, things are stable. The physicians are still watching him. They'll decide soon wh
