Raymond’s footsteps were heavy as he entered the penthouse, the tension from his confrontation with Eleanor still coiled tight in his chest. He ran a hand through his hair, exhaling slowly, trying to steady his breathing before facing Michelle again. The guilt was still fresh, it reminded him of how he had wronged her. His steps faltered as he took in the sight in the living room. Michelle was on the couch, laughing softly at something Chloe had said. She seemed genuinely happy, he hadn't seen her smile in days. Her eyes, still red-rimmed but lighter than he’d seen them in days, sparkled with a warmth that pulled painfully at something in his chest. Chloe was beside her, gesturing animatedly, her presence filling the room with a lively energy that hadn’t been there before. Their laughter died down when they finally noticed him. Michelle’s smile wavered, her gaze dropping almost instinctively. Chloe, however, was bold, she turned fully, eyes narrowing slightly as if assessing him. Ra
Michelle’s fingers drummed nervously against the edge of her phone, the screen dark and reflective under the soft office lights. The anonymous message from earlier replayed in her mind, each word etched deep with a foreboding chill that refused to fade. “Be careful whom you trust. Not everyone is who they seem.” Her eyes flickered to Raymond’s closed office door, uncertainty coiling tight in her chest. She needed to tell him—about Eleanor, about Calvin’s unsettling friendliness, about the text she had received, that made her skin prickle with unease. But the past few days had been tense between them, conversations clipped and distant, weighed down by lingering guilt and misunderstandings. They had barely talked in the past few days. Steeling herself, Michelle took a deep breath and walked towards his office, hesitating only a moment before knocking softly. “Come in,” Raymond’s voice was brisk, distracted. She stepped inside, clutching her phone tightly. Raymond was at his desk, his
Calvin's presence seemed to linger, something that Michelle couldn't quite shake. His charm was effortless, smooth words laced with an undertone that left her uneasy. It started with casual remarks, harmless enough to dismiss—a compliment here, a lingering glance there. But as the days passed, his attention grew more pointed, his questions more probing, and he lingered more than necessary. It made Michelle uneasy and suspicious. "So," Calvin drawled one afternoon, leaning against her desk with that easy smile that never quite reached his eyes. "How are things with Raymond? Must be a bit overwhelming, huh? The sudden marriage, all these changes..." Michelle’s fingers stilled on the file she was organizing, her eyes flickering up to meet his own. "We're… managing," she replied cautiously, forcing a polite smile. "It's an adjustment." Calvin chuckled, the sound low and warm. "I bet. Must be hard, though, considering how cold and distant he's been lately." His gaze was speculative, his
That night, the door to their penthouse clicked shut with a dull finality, the silence inside was thick and suffocating. Michelle's fingers trembled slightly as she turned, watching Raymond walk across the living room without a single glance in her direction. His shoulders were rigid, each step deliberate and unyielding, his anger barely contained. “Raymond, please, can you just listen to me please” she started softly, voice cracking around the edges. “It wasn’t what it looked like. I was just—” “Just what?” Raymond's voice cut through the air, icy and sharp. He turned abruptly, his eyes glinting with something darker than she'd seen before—anger, betrayal, something that twisted painfully in her chest. “Entertaining him? Laughing behind my back?” The accusation struck deep, leaving her breathless. “No I wasn't laughing behind your back, I—I would never,” Michelle stammered, throat tight. “He just wanted to talk. And I was trying to be polite.” “Polite?” Raymond's laugh was harsh,
Morning came dull and heavy, dragging Michelle from a fitful sleep on the living room couch. Her eyes were swollen, her head throbbing with exhaustion and the weight of everything that had happened in the past few days. The penthouse was eerily quiet, a silence that pressed her down with an almost suffocating weight. Raymond’s study door was still tightly shut, no sign of him stirring since last night’s confrontation, he had refused to come out of the study or talk to her. Three days. The words echoed in her ear relentlessly, a countdown ticking in her mind. She had to prove her innocence somehow—to find out who was setting her up and why. Calvin and Eleanor's faces flashed in her mind, their sly smiles and veiled comments, and her fists clenched at the thought. They were behind this; she was sure of it. But proving it was a different matter,and she had just two days left. The vibration of her phone jolted her out of her thoughts. Michelle hesitated, glancing at the screen. A name s
The tension in the penthouse was suffocating, a cold war of silence that left Michelle on edge with every step. Raymond had barely looked at her since last night’s confrontation, his words still echoing mercilessly in her mind. You’re running out of time. She moved through the living room like a ghost, nerves frayed and exhaustion pulling at her limbs. Three days to clear her name, to find proof that Eleanor and Calvin were behind the setup. But Miranda's unexpected appearance had complicated everything , her words replaying relentlessly in Michelle's head. Sometimes, the real enemy is closer than you think. A knock at the door disrupted the quiet living room. Michelle flinched, snapping out of her thoughts and hesitated before pulling it open. A hotel staff member stood outside, expression polite and detached. “Mrs. Hawthorne, Mrs. Eleanor Hawthorne has requested your presence for lunch in the dining hall,” he announced. “She insisted it was urgent.” Michelle’s stomach twisted at
Michelle's hands trembled as she dialed Chloe's number, desperation tightening her throat. The phone barely rang twice before Chloe's voice came through, warm and steady—she saw it as a lifeline. "Michelle? What's wrong?" Chloe asked, the concern evident in her tone. "I need your help," Michelle whispered, the words rushing out in a plea. "Do you know anyone from forensics? Is there a way you can contact them? I need proof—real proof—to clear my name. Raymond believes I'm leaking company secrets. It's the only way to prove my innocence and show that Eleanor and Calvin are behind it." There was a pause, then Chloe’s voice hardened with determination. "Consider it done. I'll reach out right away." Relief flooded through Michelle, so intense it left her dizzy. As she ended the call, a flicker of hope sparked amidst the darkness, fragile but fiercely burning. The next morning was a whirlwind of tension and anticipation. Michelle’s heart pounded relentlessly as she watched the forensic
The glow of the city lights outside the window did little to ease the chill settling in Michelle's bones. She sank into the armchair in the guest room, eyes fixed on her phone screen as if willing it to stay silent. The encounter with Isabelle still clung to her skin, a warning she couldn't shake. Her fingers trembled when the phone finally buzzed. The number was unfamiliar, but a dark intuition twisted in her gut as she swiped to open the message. I know what you did, Michelle. Secrets don’t stay buried forever. We both know that. — A Her breath hitched, blood draining from her face. Alex. It had to be. The words were sharp, each letter a taunt dipped in venom. Michelle’s vision blurred, memories clawing to the surface—the lies, the mistakes, the secrets she’d fought so desperately to forget. The room seemed to close in, the walls too tight, too suffocating. How did he bring it up all of a sudden? After all these years, how much did he know? And worse—what did he plan to do with i
The afternoon sun created long shadows in Michelle’s office. She sat at her desk, checking the last details of her company's new project. She thought about the busy days they'd just had, and as she looked out at the bustling city, she felt a surge of pride. It had been a long journey, but her company had finally reached the place she had always dreamed of. Raymond had just left after a brief but motivating meeting, and his words lingered in her mind. Michelle, he had said with real admiration, You’ve built something amazing. I am so proud of what you’ve achieved. But this is just the start. There’s a whole empire ahead of you. She was at a loss for words then. His praise was both humbling and thrilling. The way he looked at her made her feel like she was truly special. It wasn’t just about the company. It was about their partnership, shared dreams, and the life they were beginning to build together. From the start, Raymond had always been there for her, urging her to go beyond her ow
The morning sun shone brightly through the windows in Michelle's office, creating a gentle glow on the polished wooden floors. The city outside was busy and alive, but inside, it was calm, matching Michelle's peaceful energy. She was still thinking about the important decision she made yesterday. It felt heavy, but in a good way, as it brought her closer to the life she had always dreamt of. Raymond had just left after a quick meeting, and his words lingered in her mind. You’re amazing, Michelle, he said with genuine pride. I’m really proud of you. This partnership is only the beginning. You have the potential to create something incredible. His kind words provided comfort, like wrapping herself in a warm blanket. It had taken her a long time to arrive at this point, but now everything seemed to be falling into place. She no longer felt uncertain. Michelle had grown and changed, and she now moved forward with confidence. From the start, Raymond had always believed in her. He supporte
Michelle felt a thrill as she walked through the empty space that would soon be her architectural office. The walls were blank, and the wooden floors shined. The space seemed full of possibilities, and she could hardly believe her big dream was starting to come true. Raymond had helped her find this great place, and now it was up to Michelle to bring her dream to life. She could feel New York's busy energy in the building. As she walked around, she thought about everything she had achieved. She used to struggle just to get by, not sure of her place in a tough world. Now, she was on the verge of opening her own firm. It felt almost unbelievable. Standing by a window, Michelle gazed at the skyline and took a deep breath. The view was fantastic, showing the city in all its glory. She felt a strong connection to New York. This city was now her home and her place to create. Her phone buzzed, pulling her back to the moment. She smiled when she saw Chloe's name on the screen. Hi, how’s the
As the morning sun brightened their apartment through the large windows, its soft light filled the room. Raymond and Michelle sat quietly at the kitchen island, sipping their coffee. The gallery's opening had gone smoothly, and Michelle was proud of Chloe. Art enthusiasts, influencers, and critics were all excited about The Bloom, praising the artwork on display. Raymond leaned back in his chair and smiled at Michelle. I told you, he said gently. Her art speaks for itself. She only needed her own approval. Michelle felt warmth spread inside her as she nodded. Chloe had been nervous and unsure, but Michelle always believed in her talent. Now, with her own gallery, Chloe had proven her abilities to the world and silenced her doubts. She did it, Michelle said with admiration in her voice. She did. And you supported her all along, Raymond said warmly. That's why people are drawn to you, Michelle. His words touched Michelle deeply. Do you really think so? I know so, Raymond replied with
The plane came down gently through the clouds, revealing the vast skyline of New York City below. Michelle gazed out of the window, feeling both nervous and excited. Just a few weeks had passed since she left, yet so much had changed. The warm sun, joyful times with her family, and the pride in her success comforted her like a cozy blanket. As the plane touched the ground, Michelle's thoughts turned to what lay ahead. She remembered the award she had just won—Architect of the Year. Seeing those words on the plaque still felt unreal but very special. She looked at Raymond, who relaxed in his seat, deep in thought. His hand rested gently on Olivia's car seat, and Oliver was sleeping peacefully by his side after the long flight. A deep love for both of them filled Michelle's heart. Raymond noticed her gaze and smiled warmly, a smile that always made her feel unique. We’re home, he said softly, full of hope. Michelle nodded, feeling a wave of gratitude. The idea of home had always been d
The morning sun came through the curtains, filling the bedroom with a warm, golden light. Michelle stood by the bed, carefully folding Olivia's tiny dresses into a suitcase. Her actions were slow and gentle. The house started waking up around her, with soft voices and the faint sounds of breakfast being made. It all wrapped around her, making her feel at ease. It was hard to believe they were almost leaving. Even harder to think about how much had changed since they first got there. Michelle stopped for a moment to smooth her hand over the neatly folded clothes. A year ago, she could barely imagine what her future looked like. Now, she found herself living it — vibrant, sometimes messy, beautiful, and completely her own. A knock on the door interrupted her thoughts. She turned and saw Chloe peeking in with excitement written all over her face. Hey, do you have a moment? Chloe asked as she entered the room with a bit of a bounce in her step. Michelle gave her a warm smile. Always. Wha
The party was slowing down, but laughter and soft chatter lingered like a pleasant memory. Michelle sat on a comfy patio chair with her phone on her lap, paused on a video where Oliver and Olivia shouted their names. Fairy lights around her cast a soft golden glow, creating a dreamy atmosphere. Raymond sat nearby, gently rocking Oliver, while Olivia slept on Michelle’s chest, her tiny fingers clutching her mother's hair. Raymond glanced over and smiled, a look that still made Michelle's heart flutter. Excited, Michelle opened her architectural team's group chat. With a slightly trembling thumb, she played the video and sent it. Responses came quickly. Anna wrote: I'm crying. They're such angels! Leo replied: Amazing! They're so precious! And Oliver’s 'no exceptions'? Hilarious! Sophie said: Those cheeks! Their cute outfits! How do you handle so much cuteness, Michelle? Ava added: Is Olivia the boss at home? She looks like it. Michelle stifled her laughter, glancing at Olivia's p
The backyard was softly lit with glowing string lights that gave everything a warm, golden hue. These lights hung between the tall oak trees and fluttered over the stone patio. Michelle stood at the edge, taking in a deep breath. She watched the guests as they chatted and laughed, with music playing in the lovely spring night air. The home she and Raymond had dreamed of was finally full of life. It wasn't just about the architecture; it was filled with heart and warmth. Tonight's gathering was more than just celebrating a completed home. It was about family, love, and the start of something new. "Hey, beautiful," Raymond said quietly, approaching Michelle from behind and wrapping an arm around her. Michelle leaned back into his embrace and smiled. Do you think they like it? Raymond glanced around. Chloe was laughing with Sebastian and Felix by the stone fireplace. Damian and Millie were sharing smiles at the dessert table. Friends from their community were gathered under canopies, t
Chloe sat quietly on the bed, gripping the note so tightly that it had become crumpled in her hands. She watched as Sebastian knelt before her. He was composed, his hands steady, and though he seemed calm, Chloe could sense the underlying tension in him. She knew he was ready to protect her at all costs. Let me see the note, he requested softly. Chloe handed it to him without saying anything. Sebastian read through the note, his jaw clenching slightly. This time, he didn't swear or get angry. Instead, he carefully folded it and placed it aside, treating it like crucial evidence. I’m fine, Chloe whispered, but her shaky voice revealed her true feelings. Sebastian reached out and held her hands, entwining their fingers. His touch was warm and reassuring. You will be fine, he gently corrected her. His voice carried a sense of certainty. I promise, Chloe. You’re safe with me. I won't let anything happen to you or let anyone hurt you. Tears filled Chloe's eyes, but she fought to keep them