Chloe took a careful step backward when Isabella Hawthorne entered the dim hallway..Chloe,.Isabella repeated, her voice smooth and very calm. You look like you've seen a ghost. I might have, Chloe whispered, eyes wide with surprise. She quickly tucked the letter into her coat pocket, her fingers shaking a bit. Why are you here, Isabella? I could ask you the same thing,"Isabella replied with a small smile. She glanced around at the old, run-down apartment building, clearly not impressed. This isn’t a safe place for someone like you. Chloe didn’t respond. She stood stiffly, her thoughts racing. How did she manage to find me here? I'm in Paris for work, Isabella continued in a casual tone, brushing her coat sleeve like there was dust on it. I got information saying you might be in danger. I didn't get a name, just a number and an address. I came to check on you. Chloe raised an eyebrow. Someone told you I was here? And you just came? Wouldn’t you have done the same? Isabella's smile di
Michelle dropped the phone, and it made a loud noise when it hit the marble floor in Victor's office. Her heart was beating so fast it hurt, and everything around her seemed to spin. Raymond quickly stood up and reached for her. Michelle? She barely heard him. They... took the twins. What? Raymond's shock turned to deep anger, like a father who felt a deep, primal rage. What do you mean they took the twins? Michelle looked at him, her face pale, and she was breathing in quick gasps. Someone—someone pretending to be my assistant went to the daycare. They had everything—papers, ID, even a fake signature of mine. Victor stood still, deep in thought. This was planned out. Done by experts. No ordinary person could manage to do this and get away with it. Raymond pulled out his phone, already giving commands. Talk to security at the daycare. Get the video footage now. Cover all exit routes. Airports, train stations, roads. We need to find them. Michelle clutched her chest, struggling to br
Michelle looked down at her phone, still replaying the strange voice that had just spoken to her. If you want your children back, you’ll come alone. Those words were etched into her memory, bringing fear and worry to every thought. But she didn’t tell Raymond immediately. She simply couldn’t bring herself to do it. Sitting tensely in the backseat of the car, she felt detached from everything. Her fingers shook slightly as she set the phone in her lap. The car moved steadily, and Raymond was by her side, quietly simmering with a dangerous sort of anger. She knew it wasn’t worth the risk. If speaking up led to any harm to her children, her heart would never recover. Her stomach churned, and she turned to gaze out the window, trying hard to keep her face neutral. Just keep it together a little longer. She told herself. But Raymond was too perceptive to miss the signs. His eyes flicked toward her, narrowing. Michelle? She stayed silent. What was that call about, Michelle? She didn’t resp
Michelle's heart was pounding loudly, almost like a drum inside her chest. Isabelle's voice was cold, more than just a chill—it felt like a snake wrapping around her bones. You took the life meant for me, I'm supposed to stand by my brother. Isabelle said angrily, her eyes burning with hatred. You don't fit into our world, Michelle. Even though Michelle's voice was shaky, she stood her ground. Your world? The world of lies and cruelty? Yes, I don't belong there. Isabelle smiled slyly. Don't pretend to be a hero. You think love could make you belong? Raymond was mine to guide and shape. I was with him as he built his legacy—and then you came along and changed him into someone we can't control anymore. It's all your fault. That's because he doesn't need to be controlled anymore, Michelle replied. He needs love and support, not manipulation. Unmoved, Isabelle tilted her head. Touching. But love doesn't run businesses. Power does, and right now, I have all the power. In hiding, Raymond
The loud noise from the gunshot echoed throughout the warehouse. Dust hung in the air, almost like time had stopped. Michelle's ears were ringing, and her heart was racing as she quickly looked towards the sound. Raymond remained standing. Calvin stumbled back, clutching his shoulder where the bullet had just grazed him, bleeding through his clean suit. You son of a— he growled angrily. Raymond didn't give him a chance to finish. He moved forward, his gun still pointed at Calvin. Go ahead, keep talking and I'll make you bleed faster. Calvin's smile faltered, his pain showing in his eyes, but only for a second. He stood up straight again, filled with something darker than hatred. You won't win, Calvin said with a hiss. Even if you kill me now. You've already lost everything important. Michelle gasped softly. Raymond...But before she could say anything else, Calvin pulled a black phone from his pocket and held it up for them to see. Raymond's eyes narrowed. What are you doing? Calvin
Michelle's heart pounded as she felt the cold touch of the gun on her back. She wanted to react, but knew that any wrong move could be dangerous. So, she stayed completely still. She took a careful, shaky breath and let her legs give out underneath her. She pretended to faint. The guard was surprised when she suddenly dropped forward. Hey— he said, reaching to grab her arm, which caused the gun to lower just enough. That slight moment was all Michelle needed. Quickly, she twisted her body and knocked the gun away with her elbow. The gun fell to the ground. Acting swiftly, she kneed the guard hard in the stomach. He groaned and stumbled back. Michelle immediately reached for the gun just as everything around them turned chaotic. The warehouse lights flickered wildly and an alarm blasted through the air. The noise was mixed with radio chatter and the sound of running feet. The main lights went out, replaced by a dim red emergency lights casting strange shadows on the walls. Michelle h
The night’s chill clung to Michelle, even after leaving the warehouse. Safe in the penthouse, wrapped in soft clothes and holding her twins, the uneasy feeling wouldn’t go away. The quiet seemed too loud, and the calm too misleading. Raymond had shut the blackout curtains tightly and put a trusted security team around the building. He wasn’t taking any chances, not after what they had discovered. Sitting on the sofa, Michelle gently rocked the twins, her mind racing. She watched Raymond pace the living room, his tension visible as he held his phone. The buzzing phone stopped Raymond. Michelle looked up, worry in her eyes. Who is it? she asked softly. Raymond checked the screen. Damian. He paused before picking up. Raymond, Damian’s voice was urgent. Listen, I just left a confidential meeting. The Ashfords are moving things behind the scenes. They’ve been meeting quietly, shifting stock. Something big is coming. Raymond’s jaw tightened. Are they backing Calvin? “Worse,” Damian explain
Roxanne stood at the entrance, looking very elegant in her navy-blue suit under the warm lights of the penthouse. She contrasted sharply with Michelle, who was cozy in her soft clothes, holding her newborn twins. Yet, there was something in Roxanne’s eyes—not anger or pride, but something different. Raymond stayed close to Michelle, protectively placing his hand on her back. If you’re here to brag, just leave. I’m not, Roxanne said with calm confidence, not breaking eye contact. I won’t take much time. But this is important. Michelle didn’t move, but her heart raced, her senses alert. Letting Roxanne in felt risky, but not knowing her reason felt worse. She glanced at Raymond. Let her in. Just for a few minutes. Raymond hesitated. Michelle… It’s okay, she said softly but firmly. I need to know. Reluctantly, Raymond stepped aside. Roxanne entered slowly, her heels making a distinct clicking on the marble floor. Millie stood by the dining table, her eyes narrowed in observation. Nice t
The following morning, Michelle sat in a plain, white hospital room, holding tightly to Raymond's hand. The world outside felt distant and quiet. She focused on the small screen in front of her, where the doctor prepared to confirm something she sensed deep down. You're about seven weeks pregnant, the doctor said softly yet clearly. The ultrasound shows a healthy pregnancy, and everything looks good.Michelle's heart raced with mixed emotions: excitement, joy, and a touch of disbelief. She had suspected she was pregnant, but hearing it made everything real. She was going to have another child. Beside her, Raymond smiled gently at the screen, brushing his fingers against hers to show his support. She turned to him, her eyes sparkling with happiness despite some lingering nerves. We're having another baby, she whispered, her voice barely audible. Raymond's eyes softened, and he leaned in to kiss her forehead. I know. And I couldn't be happier.A small laugh escaped her, feeling the weig
Months passed by as Michelle and Raymond adapted to their new life, where they juggled their jobs, raised their twins, and nurtured their relationship. The hectic early years of their marriage had mellowed into a steady routine. However, each day was full of fresh surprises and happy moments. Their twins, Oliver and Olivia, were nearly two years old and filled their home with the fun chaos young children bring. There were spills, laughter, tantrums, and the constant patter of little feet. Amid the noise and mess, Michelle felt a deep sense of peace in her heart. They were a family, and she felt whole like never before.Raymond remained the calm anchor in their busy life. His steady strength balanced Michelle’s energetic nature. Whether it was a late-night feeding, a doctor’s visit, or simply holding her hand after a long day, Raymond was always by her side. They were true partners in every aspect of their lives, both personal and professional.One day, Michelle came home from a busy d
After Michelle's big career achievement, her life turned busy and exciting. Her firm started a major project, and she was deep into planning, meeting clients, and making design choices. Although it was demanding, it was a thrill, and she finally felt the joy of living her dream. The sense of accomplishment stayed with her as she and Raymond adapted to their busy routine. Every evening, when Michelle came home, Raymond’s presence was a comforting support. Their life together was like a dance—a mix of work, home life, laughter, and special moments. It wasn’t perfect, but in their quiet times, Michelle felt truly grateful. They stood on the brink of something amazing, both professionally and personally.One evening, after a tiring day of meetings, Michelle settled on the couch with Raymond. He was on his tablet, checking both work and news. When she joined him, he set the tablet aside and focused on her. How was your day? he asked, gently tucking her hair behind her ear. Michelle sighed,
In the weeks that followed, time seemed to fly by, each day feeling new and full of life. The sun hung longer in the sky, painting New York in its golden light and filling the air with possibilities. Michelle and Raymond found a comfortable routine: peaceful mornings with coffee on the balcony, evenings spent together, and weekends filled with laughter alongside friends and family. Days transformed from passing moments into cherished memories. After talking with her parents, Michelle experienced a significant change—she felt peaceful. The burden of their expectations and distant love was no longer on her shoulders. It felt like a heavy cloud had lifted, and the world appeared brighter and clearer. Every little success, every quiet moment with Raymond felt like a personal triumph. Raymond remained her constant support during this time. He understood her need for space to process her feelings but consistently showed he was there for her with a gentle touch or reassuring look. That eve
The morning sunlight streamed through the windows, gently waking Michelle. It cast a warm, golden glow over Raymond's arms, which were snugly wrapped around her. She lay still, cherishing the calm and rhythmic sound of his breathing. They had spent the previous night filled with laughter, dancing, and sharing dreams under the twinkling fairy lights. The events of last night felt almost surreal. Chloe had gotten engaged in a sparkling way, and the rooftop had been magical. Plus, Raymond had quietly shared his true feelings with her. A fresh chapter was waiting to begin for them. Turning softly, Michelle faced Raymond and noticed he was already awake, his blue eyes tender and full of love. "Morning," he said quietly, brushing her hair gently off her face. Morning, she replied with a sleepy voice. They shared a moment of silence, thinking about the serious conversation they had last night. Then, Raymond found her hand and entwined their fingers, his thumb softly moving over her knuckles
The weeks sped by, full of excitement, challenges, and important milestones. Michelle stood at the edge of a bustling construction site just outside central London. Her hard hat was under her arm as she took in the progress. The site buzzed with activity—cranes lifted steel beams, workers called out over the noise of machines, and scaffolding wrapped around the unfinished buildings like a growing web. Her heart filled with pride. This was not just any project—this was her firm’s first significant international endeavor. It was already catching eyes. A breeze played with her blazer as she walked along the site’s perimeter, with her British project manager, James, by her side. You’ve certainly made a splash, Mrs. Hawthorne James said, smiling and looking at his clipboard. There’s talk in the industry. Everyone's curious about the 'rising star from New York. Michelle chuckled, feeling both humble and energized. Well, let's give them something really exciting to talk about. James nodded
The morning sunlight streamed through the tall windows of Michelle's office, bathing the room in a warm glow. Michelle stood in the center of the open office space, feeling both nervous and excited, but her face showed calm confidence. Today was the start of something new—not only for the company, but for the team that would drive her growing business forward. Employees gathered one by one, their faces showing both eagerness and expectation Michelle had chosen individuals who were not only talented but also shared her passion and vision for the firm's future. She cleared her throat and smiled brightly. "First," she began, steadying her voice even as she felt nerves inside, I want to thank you all for believing in this dream. We're not just building structures; we're creating dreams, communities, and legacies. There was a murmur of agreement, and Michelle continued, gaining confidence with each word. She started assigning roles—project leads, creative directors, client liaisons, logis
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