Michelle stepped into the sleek, glass-walled lobby of Hawthorne Enterprises, still adjusting to the idea of being tied to Raymond’s world in such an overwhelming way. The whispers that followed her weren’t as vicious as before—Raymond had made sure of that by helping her clear her name—but the lingering stares reminded her that people still doubted her place here. As she made her way to the executive floor where her office was, a familiar voice stopped her in her tracks. “Michelle!” She turned to see Millie hurrying toward her, a radiant smile on her pretty face. Dressed in a stylish beige coat and heels that clicked loudly against the marble floor, drawing attention as she took each step , she looked effortlessly put together. But Michelle knew better than anyone that her sister’s polished exterior hid something else beneath. “Millie, what are you doing here?” Michelle asked, forcing a small smile. Millie linked her arm with Michelle’s, a casual display of sisterly affection th
Millie sat gracefully across from Raymond in his office, a cup of coffee in her perfectly manicured hands. She had been patient, carefully planting seeds of doubt and saying negative things about Michelle over the past few weeks. Now, it was time to take the next step. “Raymond, I really hope you don’t take this the wrong way,” she started, her voice laced with fake concern. “But I think you need to be careful about Michelle.” Raymond, who had been reviewing a contract, lifted his gaze. His expression remained blank and unreadable, but his eyes carried a bit of coldness and sharpness that made her uneasy. “Careful about what?” he asked. Millie let out a soft sigh, as if burdened by the weight of her next words. “I love my sister, I really do, but she's not like me. You should choose me instead… I’m worried she might not be as sincere and innocent as she seems.” Raymond leaned back in his chair, his fingers steepling together. “Go on,” I'm listening. Millie hesitated, making sure
The following morning, the tension of last night still hung in the air like a heavy fog over Hawthorne Enterprises. Raymond had received the anonymous message on his private phone—“Your mother is playing a dangerous game. If you want to save your company, meet me tomorrow. Alone.”—and had spent a sleepless night wrestling with whether to go or not and its implications. Now, as the first rays of dawn filtered through the penthouse windows, he made his way to the boardroom with determination. Inside the boardroom, silence had fallen over the gathered executives just as Raymond made his way inside the room. The crisis meeting had been called abruptly, and whispers filled the space as everyone awaited the reason behind the unexpected meeting and Raymond’s address. At the head of the long mahogany table, Raymond’s eyes swept over their tense faces. But what caught his attention wasn’t just the anxious murmur of the board and the expression on their faces that showed their worry—it was Mic
The atmosphere at Hawthorne Enterprises had grown tense over the past few days. The investor’s unexpected withdrawal had sent shockwaves through the board and made everyone uneasy, whispers of financial instability swirled like autumn leaves in a storm. In the midst of all this chaos, Raymond and Michelle found themselves pushed into an alliance—one born of desperation and a shared determination to protect what they had built. Raymond paced in his glass-walled office, the city skyline a distant reminder of everything at stake. His jaw was set, his mind racing with strategies to counter the attack. Every number on his spreadsheets, every memo, seemed to remind him that Eleanor’s machinations were driving the company toward ruin. Yet, in the midst of it all, he couldn’t ignore Michelle’s steady presence. Despite the coldness and doubt that had crept between them, he now saw her in a different way, in her the spark of a brilliant strategist—someone whose instincts and intellect could sa
Millie sat alone in the shadowed corner of an upscale but discreet lounge, her eyes glittering with a venom that had been slowly building over the past few days, she was becoming really impatient. The lights were low and the murmur of conversation around her barely registered as she tapped her fingers impatiently on the polished mahogany table. Today was the day she would make her next move—a move that would shake Michelle’s world to its very core. Earlier that day, she had arranged a secret meeting with someone she knew would understand her frustration. Someone who had dealt with Michelle before and knows how to handle her. It wasn’t long before the door to the private back room opened, and Alex Westwood walked in. His dark eyes held a mix of weariness and ruthless determination—a far cry from the smug smile he had worn during previous encounters. The same Alex who had warned Michelle with icy words that “some secrets should stay buried.” “Millie,” he greeted curtly, taking a seat
The morning air was crisp, but the heat from the media storm brewing around Michelle was suffocating. The internet was ablaze with scandalous headlines, all pointing fingers at her. "Michelle Davenport Caught in Cheating Scandal!" "Raymond Hawthorne’s wife Exposed in Secret Affair!" She stood in front of the television in the penthouse, her face pale as news anchors analyze every fabricated detail. Pictures— misleading—flashed across the screen, showing her in what appeared to be intimate moments with a man she barely recognized. A man who, upon closer inspection, had been strategically placed in her presence at charity events and galas over the past year. It was a carefully orchestrated illusion designed to destroy her. The pictures were obviously photoshopped. She didn't even know the man they claimed she had an affair with. Her hands trembled as she grabbed her phone. Dozens of missed calls and texts bombarded her screen. Friends, colleagues, and even distant acquaintances all
The tension between Michelle and Raymond lingered in the air like an unspoken challenge. Though he had chosen to believe her, the weight of doubt still hung in his gaze and Michelle could see it. The scandal had placed them on shaky ground, almost ruining their marriage, but something else was shifting beneath the surface—an understanding, a newfound unity between them forged by adversity. Raymond had always been guarded, his emotions locked away behind a wall of discipline and control. But as they sat in the dimly lit penthouse that evening, going over every possible angle of the scandal, Michelle noticed a change. He was listening, really listening. Not just questioning her or doubting every word she said, not just assuming the worst—he was trying to understand her perspective. "I had my team run an analysis on those pictures," Raymond said, his voice steady but thoughtful. "They’ve been altered, as you claimed. The original versions were photoshopped to create a narrative that do
The scandal had reached a fever pitch. Every news outlet, gossip blog, and social media platform was ablaze with the latest accusations against Michelle. The fabricated stories of her alleged multiple affairs had sent the internet into a frenzy, and the comments were ruthless. "She played us all! A gold digger through and through!" "How does Raymond Hawthorne not see it? She’s using him!" "Disgusting. She’s got the face of an angel but the heart of a liar." Michelle sat stiffly on the couch in Raymond’s penthouse, her hands clenched around her phone as she scrolled through the never-ending barrage of hate. Each comment felt like a dagger, chipping away at the fragile sense of control she had left. Hitting her in the chest so hard that it made it difficult for her to breathe properly. She flinched as the news channel on the TV played yet another segment dissecting her supposed infidelity. "The evidence is mounting," a smug anchor declared. "While Michelle Davenport has denied thes
The next morning, the sun shone through the villa’s big windows, filling the living room with warm, golden light. Michelle sat at the kitchen table with her sketchpad in front of her, a steaming cup of coffee in her hands. She hadn’t slept much because her mind was so active. After her call with Raymond, she had dug out an old box of pencils and notebooks. She flipped through nearly forgotten sketches and doodles. Her fingers were eager to create again, to bring the characters Raymond imagined to life. Now, she looked at the first page. It was a sketch of two small twins exploring a magical forest. She smiled. A new chapter. A new dream. It felt like coming home. Michelle picked up a pencil, enjoying how it felt in her hand. She started drawing slowly, but as the lines and characters came to life, she felt herself relax. Pure joy filled her heart. She would do it. She would illustrate their story—not for the publisher, not because she had to—but because it was their story. Something
Millie gazed at herself in the mirror, softly pressing down the smooth fabric of her dress. Her stomach felt a mix of nerves, and she couldn’t help but keep smiling. She was going to have coffee with Damian. Millie didn’t expect to say yes so easily, and she didn’t expect to feel this excited. She kept reminding herself it was just a simple hangout, nothing too complex. When she walked into the small bistro at the corner of the plaza, she spotted Damian already seated at a candlelit table. Her heart felt a sudden jolt. He stood up as soon as he saw her, a warm smile brightening his face. Damian looked effortlessly handsome in his navy shirt with sleeves rolled up and slightly tousled hair. You found it, he said, pulling out a chair for her. Millie nodded and sat down, nervously toying with her napkin. I almost got lost, but... she grinned, "it was worth it. They ordered some wine and local dishes, and soon they were chatting easily, as if they had been friends for a long time. Damia
Michelle looked at the blinking cursor on her screen for a long time. Finally, she sighed and leaned back in her chair, deep in thought. The idea of letting cameras into her home, even for just one day, made her feel uneasy. Her home had become a safe haven after everything she had been through. She wasn’t sure if she was ready to show even a small part of it to the world. Then, she thought about the bigger picture—the story she was sharing. It wasn’t just in her designs but also in the life she had rebuilt from the ground up. Maybe it was time to show a little of that new life. Carefully, Michelle typed her response: Hi Alice, Thank you for thinking of me! I’m open to filming at home, but I have one request: I do not want the children on camera. They are too young, and I want to protect their privacy. Looking forward to hearing more about the logistics. Best, Michelle. Before she could second-guess herself, she hit send. It was a boundary she felt comfortable with, and she hoped
Michelle gripped her tea mug a bit more as she listened to Chloe. From the next room, the gentle sound of Raymond reading a story could be heard. I thought we had a future, Chloe said, her voice trembling slightly. Michelle carefully set her tea down and moved over to hug Chloe. She didn’t say anything, offering just silent support. Chloe pulled back after a moment, quickly wiping her eyes with her sweater sleeve. She let out a shaky laugh. Now... I have no idea what's next. Michelle gently tucked a stray strand of Chloe’s hair behind her ear. Have you talked to him? Really talked? Chloe paused. Not yet. I’m scared. Michelle squeezed her hands reassuringly. He might be scared too. You won't know unless you try. Just then, as if by chance, the kitchen door opened. Sebastian stood there, looking serious but determined. Chloe, he said quietly. Can we talk? Michelle gave Chloe a supportive nudge and quietly left the kitchen to give them privacy. Outside, on the villa's porch under a sk
The next morning, Michelle stood on the edge of the construction site with her hard hat under her arm and the World Visions producer's card tightly in hand. She watched the vibrant scene before her: homes halfway built, gardens starting to grow, and the sound of workers' laughter mingling with the spring air. This was her dream built from nothing—a new beginning, and her second chance. She wanted to share it, but under her own terms. Michelle took a deep breath and dialed the number on the card. Alice answered quickly. Mrs Hawthorne! I was hoping to hear from you, she said brightly and professionally. Michelle managed a small smile. I want to proceed with the documentary, she stated, choosing her words carefully. But there are a few conditions. Of course, anything. Isabella responded warmly. We want you to feel at ease. First, Michelle said, steadying her voice, the focus has to stay on the project—the architecture and sustainability efforts. My family, especially my children, must
Michelle was in a small café's sunny courtyard in the middle of town. She felt a bit nervous as she stirred her cappuccino and kept checking the clock. Today was an important meeting with a potential investor. They chose this casual, public location to help her feel safe. Her sister Millie had offered to be there for support, but Michelle decided to handle the meeting alone. Staying professional and thinking clearly were crucial for Michelle because much was at stake. Soon, a fancy black car stopped on the cobblestone street, and a tall man stepped out. He wore a nice navy suit, with some gray in his hair. He scanned the café until his sharp eyes found her. Michelle stood as the man approached and extended her hand. Hello. I'm Michelle Hawthorne. He smiled warmly and shook her hand. I’m Oliver Grant. Thank you for meeting me. Michelle was taken aback for a moment. She knew his name. Oliver Grant was Adrien's former business partner, someone she had heard about but never met. Adrien o
Raymond spent the night walking back and forth on the terrace, holding the crumpled letter in his hand. He was torn between his responsibilities and his desires. As dawn broke, painting the sky with soft pink and gold colors, he finally made his decision. When Michelle entered the kitchen, she was still in her pajamas and holding a steaming cup of tea. She found Raymond already at the small breakfast table, his usually calm eyes showing some hesitation. Morning, Michelle greeted with a sleepy smile, placing her cup down. You're up early. I couldn't sleep, he admitted. He reached into his pocket, pulled out the letter, and slid it across to her. I need to talk to you about something. Michelle looked puzzled as she unfolded the letter. As she read it, she let out a soft gasp. Raymond, this is amazing! She exclaimed, her face lighting up. The Global Entrepreneur Excellence Award? That's a huge deal! Raymond managed a small smile. It is a big honor. You really have to go, she said immed
The following days were filled with a whirlwind of excitement and preparations. They dug out the suitcases from the closets and checked that their passports were in order. Michelle stayed busy writing lists of items to pack, tasks to cancel, and things to remember. The twins were overjoyed, running around the house and laughing about their upcoming trip on a huge airplane. At the dining table, Chloe and Sebastian were deeply focused on their laptops, discussing work matters. I think we should adjust the project timelines while Michelle is away, Chloe suggested as she reviewed the company’s main schedule. That way, if unexpected issues come up, we’ll be prepared. Sebastian agreed, tapping his pen. Yes, I'll take care of client meetings if necessary. We’ll make the transition smooth. Michelle, overhearing them from the kitchen while packing snacks for the twins, smiled to herself. She would miss her team dearly, but knowing Chloe and Sebastian were taking charge gave her peace of mind
The next morning, warm sunlight filled their living room through big windows, creating golden patterns on the wooden floor. Michelle was sitting on the couch with her legs crossed, staring at an email on her phone. The subject line felt huge and important. Across from her, Raymond was calmly sipping his coffee, quietly watching her. I can’t stop thinking about it, Michelle said, setting her phone on the table. It’s such an amazing opportunity... but I’m scared, Ray. Raymond put his coffee mug down and leaned forward, resting his arms on his knees. Tell me everything, he encouraged her . Let's figure this out together. Michelle brushed a piece of hair behind her ear. The project lasts only three months, she explained slowly. It's about a small eco-community designed to be self-sustaining, combining nature and buildings in new ways. Raymond nodded encouragingly, urging her to continue. And they want me to lead the design, not just help. Lead. Michelle's voice wavered slightly with the