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The petals of deceit
Last Updated:
2024-12-10 17:07:16Related chapters
The One He Let Go Unspoken promises
Adrian I leaned against Kelly’s office desk, arms crossed, my gaze fixed on the bouquet sitting there like a ticking time bomb. The tension in the room was thick, and Kelly’s silence only amplified it. The Kelly I knew, the one who had worked tirelessly for every bit of success she’d earned, never let anything rattle her. But now, her distress was as clear as the lines etched into her usually composed features. “Are you going to tell me what’s going on, or do I have to drag it out of you?” I asked, keeping my tone firm but steady. Kelly looked up from her chair, her hands resting on the edge of her desk. Her hesitation spoke volumes, but I wasn’t going to let this slide. Not when she looked like someone had knocked the ground out from under her. She sighed, shaking her head. “It’s... nothing I can’t handle, Adrian.” The hell it was! I didn’t buy her deflection for a second. “Bullshit,” I snapped, stepping closer. “Don’t sit there and tell me you’re fine when you’re clearly n
Last Updated : 2024-12-11The One He Let Go A thin line
Kelly I couldn’t shake the feeling of unease as I adjusted the straps of my gown. Adrian had insisted I go with him to the event. I had questioned him earlier, asking, “Wouldn’t rumors fly? You suggested we keep our marriage private.” He had shrugged it off with that charming, devil-may-care smile of his, saying, “I don’t care anymore. If my presence keeps Anderson away, I’ll break the rules myself.” There was something comforting in his words, but still I couldn’t escape the anxiety gnawing at my insides. It had been years since I had been part of such a high-profile event, and I wasn’t sure I was ready to face the past, let alone the people from it. But Harper was with me, tugging at my sleeve as she refused to let Olivia babysit her. I smiled softly as I looked down at her. My little girl, so full of life and defiance, had a mind of her own. She wasn’t about to be left behind, and honestly I didn’t mind. She was the one thing that kept me grounded, especially now that Anderso
Last Updated : 2024-12-12The One He Let Go The bitter truth
Anderson Mommy? The word echoed in my mind, over and over. What a woman. She stood there, her presence undeniable even amid the clamor of the high-profile event. The woman I once knew, Kelly Brooks or was it Kendra now?—was standing right in front of me, surrounded by a sea of luxury and power. My mind was clouded with thoughts of her. The woman who had once been nothing more than an opportunity to manipulate. The woman who had never really loved me, yet here she was, looking as stunning as ever. But what truly stopped me was the realization. The way she had changed. She was more radiant now, a clear sign of wealth, success, and dare I say it—freedom. Yet, beneath the exterior, it was still her, Kelly. And then my eyes found the man behind her. The piece of the puzzle clicked into place, I couldn’t help but feel the pull of jealousy rising in my chest. I could vividly remember him from way back, he was rude to me when we first crossed paths, he was such a jerk. I let my gaze
Last Updated : 2024-12-13The One He Let Go Buried feelings, unfinished business
Kelly As Anderson walked away with Aiden, a heavy wave of recklessness settled in my chest. It had been five years since I last saw my son, yet the boy who left was now a handsome young man. His striking features mirrored Anderson’s—a bittersweet reminder of the life we once shared. My mind drifted to the last time I saw Aiden. He refused to come to me, he didn't even look at me and his tear-filled eyes begged for answers I didn't know how to give. That scene had haunted me for years, and now seeing him again, the ache in my chest felt unbearable. Anderson had always been cunning, but this? Bringing Aiden here? It was a calculated move, one meant to break me and shatter the fragile peace I’d built. I clenched my fists. What lies had Evelyn been feeding him up till now? What poison had she poured into my son’s ears that made him not even recognize me? “Mommy? What’s wrong?” Harper’s small voice snapped me out of my spiraling thoughts. I looked down at her, her innocent eyes full
Last Updated : 2024-12-14The One He Let Go Torn truths
Aiden I couldn’t get her face out of my mind. The woman at the event—no, not just any woman. My mother or at least the woman who used to be my mother before she decided I wasn’t good enough to keep. She’d looked right at me, and for a moment, I thought I saw something. Recognition, maybe? Regret? But it was gone as quickly as it came, replaced by the same polished smile she wore for everyone else. Now, she was someone else entirely—Kendra, a congresswoman, a stranger. But no matter how much she wanted to pretend otherwise, I knew. She couldn’t fool me. That was Kelly, my mom. The image of her with that man—Adrian, I think his name was, made my blood boil. The way she smiled at him, the way he held her hand so confidently, and the way their little girl clung to him. Harper, was it? That’s what she’d called him “Daddy.” The word grated in my ears. That should’ve been me. I miss her so much, yet I hate her aswell, how could she not call me for once in 5 years? I thought after what h
Last Updated : 2024-12-15The One He Let Go The past
Kelly The faint hum of the coffee machine in the corner of the kitchen couldn’t drown out my restless thoughts. My mind keeps drifting back to Aiden again no matter how hard I try. The image of his face, his deep, accusing eyes, played on an endless loop in my mind. It had been five years. Five long years since I last saw him. He had grown taller, leaner—his cheekbones sharper, his features a spitting image of his Father, though his lips had the fullness of my own. Aiden was no longer the little boy I remembered. He was a young man now, but I couldn’t help but picture him as the boy who used to hug me tight before bedtime, whispering, “Goodnight, Mommy. I love you.” “Mommy?” Harper’s voice pulled me out of my thoughts. She stood in the doorway, clutching her favorite stuffed dinosaur. Her bright eyes stared at me, a mix of concern and curiosity. “Are you sad?” I quickly composed myself, forcing a soft smile. “No, sweetheart. I was just thinking.” Harper tilted her head
Last Updated : 2024-12-16The One He Let Go Echoes of the past
Kelly The weekend was meant to be relaxing, a rare opportunity for Harper to unwind after her first week at her new school. Adrian had suggested taking her to the park, a routine we created after Harper turned 1. He had appointments lined up for the day, leaving me to enjoy some quiet time with Harper. We arrived at Willowcreek Park around noon. The air was crisp, and laughter echoed from the playground. Harper's eyes lit up as she dashed toward the swings. I smiled, following her with measured steps, enjoying the sight of her carefree happiness. “Mommy, push me higher!” Harper’s giggles pulled me back to the present. I obliged, pushing her gently as she squealed with joy. “You’re getting so strong, Mommy!” she teased, making me laugh. But that laughter faded the moment my gaze landed on a figure near the sandbox. Aiden. He wasn’t alone. Evelyn was with him, looking as polished as ever in a beige coat and dark sunglasses. My breath hitched. My instincts screamed to grab Harper
Last Updated : 2024-12-17The One He Let Go Defending the woman I care for
Kelly The warmth of Adrian’s family home always made me feel welcome, even though every time I stepped foot in it, a slight feeling of unease gripped me. Still, it was nice to be here with Harper—she had grown fond of her grandfather and grandmother over the years, and today seemed like no exception. The dinner table was warm, filled with the smell of rich food and the gentle hum of conversation. Adrian's family had invited us over for a quiet Sunday gathering, something they did every now and then. Harper as usual was her lively self, showing off her drawings to anyone who would listen. Olivia, Adrian’s younger sister, was animated as always, discussing her latest project at work. “Mommy!” Harper’s voice broke my thoughts as she dashed toward me from the living room, her little legs carrying her with excitement. I smiled, picking her up and planting a kiss on her cheek. “What is it, sweetie?” “I’m going to show Grandma my drawings!” she exclaimed, holding up a colorful stac
Last Updated : 2024-12-18
Latest chapter
The One He Let Go New nursing home
KateThe tension at home had finally started to ease. Anderson had apologized for his earlier behavior, the arguments and frustrations melted away. Peace. For once, I could sit back and breathe without the constant pressure of dealing with Anderson's problems. Maybe we were finally moving past the things that had nearly tore us apart.And yet, there was something still lingering in the back of my mind. Evelyn, my mother in law. That woman never gave me a break. She’d begun to bug me about finding a purpose, a skill I could turn into a business. She seemed convinced that I was wasting my potential. Honestly, it wasn’t a terrible idea actually. I’d never been good at keeping things grounded, always floating between chaos and lifestyle. But maybe it was time to think about something more stable, more tangible to do with my life.Unlike me, Kelly had it all figured out. She’d gone from being an R&B singer to an anchor and now, somehow she became a Congresswoman. She had it all, wealth,
The One He Let Go A vacation?
Kelly I woke up to the sweet smell of food coming in from the kitchen. It was the kind of scent that brightened my mood, comforting me before my eyes even fully opened. Adrian.He had moved in completely now, and somehow, having him so close felt right. I didn’t know how I had gotten so used to his presence, but now it was impossible to imagine my life without him in it.I stretched lazily in bed before getting up, the light from the morning coming through the windows. I walked down the hall, my feet barely making a sound on the soft floorboards. As I approached the kitchen, I could hear the light sound of activity. Adrian was there, moving around, making breakfast. A feeling of warmth washed over me as I watched him work, his broad shoulders moving with ease, his hands steady and sure. He looked so good. God, he always did.“Good morning,” I said, my voice still a little raspy from sleep.Adrian turned toward me, and that smile of his, perfect, genuine, and somehow always exactly
The One He Let Go Scared to lose you
AdrianI walked toward my room, my mind racing, but my steps stopped as a sudden weight seemed to drop onto my chest. I stopped, running a hand through my hair, trying to shake off the unease that was gripping me. I knew this moment would come, when the reality of the contract, the boundaries, and the roles we’d both settled into would catch up to me. But nothing, nothing prepared me for the realization of just how much I had crossed those lines.I stood there in the hallway, alone, lost in my thoughts. The hallway seemed colder now, and I couldn’t push away the feeling that I was straying further from the man I wanted to be. Every day, I had been careful, careful with Kelly, careful with my actions, knowing the lines I was never supposed to cross. But lately... lately, I couldn’t help myself.The small gestures, little touches, those stolen moments had started to mean something. And now, I wasn’t sure if I was the one who was losing control or if I had already lost it completely. I h
The One He Let Go Marriage anniversary
KellyI parked my car in the driveway and glanced over at the backseat, where Harper was still sound asleep. Gently, I unbuckled her from her car seat and carefully lifted her into my arms, trying not to wake her as she embraced into me. The night had been long, and the last thing I wanted was to disturb her rest.As I walked up the porch, a sudden unease settled over me. I had left the living room light on before I left, knowing I’d be coming back late, but now... it was off. I paused mid-step, looking at the porch in the dim light. That wasn’t right. The main door was slightly ajar, and my stomach twisted. I glanced behind me, expecting to see Adrian’s car in the driveway. But the spot where it usually parked was empty. My heartbeat quickened as I stood frozen on the porch, trying to make sense of the situation. I had never felt so exposed, yet something inside me told me that no matter how safe the estate was with its tight security, nothing was impossible.Holding Harper close to
The One He Let Go What are you doing here?
Kelly Seeing Susan in the neighborhood was the last thing I expected. I stopped mid-step, blinking as if she might disappear. But there she was, standing casually with her hands in her jacket pockets, a grin forming on her face when she spotted me. “Kelly?” she called out again, her voice carrying both surprise and excitement. “Susan?” I asked, disbelief in my tone. “What are you doing here?” She laughed softly, shaking her head. “Have you forgotten? This is where we first met during our childhood. My adoptive parents still live here. Their house is just about a mile away,” she said, pointing down the road. Her words brought back memories I hadn’t thought about in years. During my childhood, my mom took me to Mrs Kim’s house as kid while she picked her up as our new nanny, that’s where I met Susan. And ever since then we’ve been close friends.But still, seeing her here felt almost surreal. “I guess I just didn’t expect to run into you,” I admitted. “Neither did I,” she said
The One He Let Go The drive
KellyThe drive felt longer than I remembered, but with each passing mile, I found myself growing more anxious. The new nursing home for my dad was situated closer to me now, which meant I wouldn’t have to drive hours just to visit him anymore. But moving him was still a difficult decision. It felt like I was uprooting him all over again, and that didn’t sit right with me. Still, he needed this new chapter, his safety and health required it and I couldn’t keep putting it off. Adrian had been so busy with his work, particularly with fixing the hospital after its renovations, so I decided to take Harper with me on this trip.I had debated calling Mrs. Kim, my childhood nanny, before I left. But I hesitated, she had retired from working so many years ago, and I didn’t want to impose. But as much as I wanted her help with my Dad, I was also hoping she could lend a hand with Harper. Most importantly. Adrian and I had both been incredibly busy, and I hadn’t had time to ask for assistance.
The One He Let Go Who is Elanzo?
AidenI sat on the couch, pretending to be engrossed in the game on my tablet. My fingers moved absently over the screen, but my mind wasn’t in it. Not today, not after all the problems we encountered.Living here with my Stepmother, felt like walking on eggshells. She tried to act like she cared, but I wasn’t that dumb . I could feel her irritation whenever I was around, like I was some burden she couldn’t wait to get rid of. I miss Mom, not just the idea of her, but everything she used to represent: warmth, safety, and someone who genuinely cared.Kate wasn’t that. She was always busy or preoccupied, whispering on her phone or sulking when she thought no one was looking. I’d caught her snapping at Dad a few times, and honestly, I didn’t know how he put up with her.Out of the corner of my eye, I noticed Ava walking into the room, She greeted me but I wasn't going to pretend anymore that I liked her. Honestly I don't care about anybody here except my dad. I'm glad she left without pr
The One He Let Go Should I talk to Anderson?
AvaI had been standing just outside Anderson's bedroom door, my back pressed against the wall, straining to catch every word. Their voices were muffled, but the tension inside felt suffocating.Kate’s accusation hit hard when she said Anderson’s mind was still with Kelly. When the door slammed open, I didn’t have time to move. Kate stormed out, her face streaked with tears, and found me standing there. Her eyes narrowed as she stiffened, her lips trembling with that of anger and embarrassment.“What are you doing here?” she snapped, her voice low but sharp.I opened my mouth to answer, but nothing came out. Instead, I took a step back, breaking eye contact.Kate didn’t press further. She scoffed, turned on her heel, and marched down the hallway, her footsteps fading into the distance. I let out a shaky breath, my mind spinning with questions.Should I talk to Anderson?Part of me wanted to walk away, to avoid the emotional feeling that was bound to follow. But another part of me, th
The One He Let Go A cop?
Anderson I sat on the edge of the bed, my head buried in my hands. The day had been chaotic, but nothing could have prepared me for the shock of seeing him at the police station.Lucian.My younger brother.For years, he’d battled mental illness—a diagnose that tore through our family and left him isolated. The last I’d heard, he was in therapy and planning to study nursing. Now, here he was, a police officer. How the fuck did that happen?And yet, what unsettled me most was the way he looked at me. No warmth, no recognition. Just cold detachment. As if we weren’t brothers. As if I didn’t exist.I couldn’t shake the memory of his blank expression. Had he forgotten me, or was it intentional? Guilt crept in, tightening its grip around my chest. Maybe I deserved it. I hadn’t been there for him when he needed me most.Five years had slipped by, and I’d let them go without checking in. Between building my business, managing Kate’s demands, and navigating the mess after the end of my sing
