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 room was quiet, except for the gentle sound of pages turning. Michelle sat in a comfortable chair in her study, while the twins were asleep in their room. A small lamp on the desk cast a warm light over an open folder that belonged to Roxanne, looking like it held secrets. Michelle's hands shook slightly as she read. There were names, numbers, offshore bank accounts, and companies that seemed fake—pretending to be energy or media firms. It all suggested something larger than just taking over a company. Calvin wasn't only interested in Hawthorne Enterprises. He was trying to create something far greater. Michelle’s heart raced when she saw the name Trevino Group circled in red. It was a company she vaguely remembered Raymond mentioning weeks ago. They had been interested in a Hawthorne contract but had suddenly pulled out. It hadn't seemed important at the time. Now, Michelle wondered if they backed out because Calvin had given them what they wanted. Feeling overwhelmed, Michelle
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