Bronn It's been months since I convinced Emily to come with me to Henderson. However, her commitments to Sarah's group often keep her in Highland Hills, which frustrates and intrigues me. Balancing our new life together and her ongoing responsibilities has been a delicate dance. We were both surprised to learn that Sarah frequently stays at Serenity Pines because she is pregnant, something she cannot disclose publicly. Tonight, as I prepared to attend a high-profile gathering while Emily stepped in as Sarah's representative, we were getting ready to leave the mansion together. "Daddy, can't I come with you and Mommy?" Willow asked as I put on my necktie. Emily was being attended to by three stylists in another room. "Come here," I said softly, beckoning her closer. As she rushed toward me, eyes wide with excitement, I realized how much my life had transformed. In an instant, I went from being alone to experiencing pure happiness. I scooped Willow up, relishing the weight of her
Emily I spotted Bronn and Jane, Philip Cornell's sister, slipping away from the bustling party into a secluded corner of the expansive open lounge. Curiosity gnawed at me, but I resisted the urge to follow. I decided to wait until their conversation ended. Turning my attention back to the party, I was approached by two assistants in Aspire Financial Group. The woman, Vivian, was a sleek blonde about Sophia's age, and the man, Derek, around his forties, exuded an air of smug self-importance. "Ms. Carter, how is Ms. Mitchell doing? We haven't seen her at several important gatherings lately. She hasn't been coming to the office either. There are some rumors that President Cornell is keeping her locked up," Vivian said. A waiter glided past with a tray of crystal flutes filled with bubbling champagne. I plucked one gracefully, using the moment to compose my thoughts. After almost a year of working closely with Sarah, I had become adept at brushing off rumors. Cautiously, I took a sip
Sarah "What are you doing here?" I asked Jane, my voice tinged with concern. I scanned the crowded lounge, wondering if she had come with anyone. "I'm alone. I heard Bronn married your executive assistant," she said sadly. Jane and I hadn't been in touch much lately, and I didn't realize how deeply she felt. Jakob told me that she had confessed her love to Bronn, but I hadn't grasped the gravity of the situation until now. I took Jane's hand and tried to console her. "Oh, love," I said softly, "Maybe it was just an infatuation. There are so many wonderful people in the world who would love you deeply." Her reaction was immediate and intense. "No, Sarah! I was in love with Bronn from the very first time you introduced him to me. He even saved me from Madam Cornell on the cruise! I worked hard to draw his character in LoveLogic because I love him!" Jane exclaimed, raising her voice. Studying her face, I sought signs of alcohol's influence. Her speech remained clear, yet her em
Sarah With my vision blurred, I tried to spot the person who snatched my phone. Wait… why do I sense a new presence? No! "Hello there, Sarah, darling! It's been a while since we last saw each other," said a familiar voice—definitely not Jane's. Darkness crept at the edges of my consciousness, threatening to pull me under. I fought against it, clinging to awareness with all my willpower. "W-wait a moment? Is she okay?" Jane's worried voice pierced through my foggy mind. I squeezed my eyes shut even though my mind was hazy. "Jane, you've played your part beautifully. Why are you hesitating? Isn't this what you wanted—to separate Sarah and President Cornell? After all, didn't you blame Sarah for your unfortunate encounter with Mr. Martin? Think about it. If they split again, she'll have no choice but to rely on you. You'll be her only true friend." "But I... I never meant for—" Jane's voice cracked, her sobs interrupting her words. "Oh, come now. Deep down, you've always hated her
Sarah Faint voices could be heard upon regaining consciousness. A sharp pain throbbed at my temples, and I felt weak all over. As my senses returned, I struggled to recall my last clear memories. Jane's face came into focus—she had handed me a drink. I was sure she had something to do with what happened to me. Blinking away the lingering haze, I looked around. The luxurious décor and familiar layout reminded me that this was Ethan Vanderbilt's house. Philip had brought me here months ago. "That lunatic! I couldn't believe that scumbag!" I heard Dr. Ruth exclaim outside the room. "Ruth, please, you need to calm down. This level of stress isn't good for you or the baby," came the voice of Dr. Ethan Vanderbilt. 'Baby? Is Dr. Ruth pregnant?' Summoning my remaining strength, I pushed myself up and staggered towards the door. As I opened it, both doctors spun around, their wide eyes and slightly open mouths revealing their surprise. "Hi! Uh, h-how did I get here?" I asked them. An
Jane A strange tightness gripped my chest as I sat by the window in my bedroom, looking out at the neatly trimmed gardens below. I haven't been able to think clearly since last night. Madam Cornell manipulated me in the past, and I couldn't believe I was still falling for it now under Madam Olsen's influence. It left a bitter taste in my mouth. I hate Sarah as much as I love her. A sudden knock at the door interrupted my thoughts. Quickly, I wiped my eyes with a lace-edged handkerchief, trying to hide any trace of tears. Taking a deep breath to compose myself, I walked over and opened the door. Shock and fear must have been written all over my face. "Sarah…" The butler cleared his throat. "Miss Jane, Madam Sarah wishes to speak with you. Were you available at that moment?" My first instinct was to refuse, to slam the door and retreat into my solitude. But I knew I had no right to deny her this conversation. Sarah deserved answers, and it was my chance to voice the doubts that
Sarah Four years later... At the Serenity Pines library, I am holding an invitation from my father for his sixtieth birthday. Over the past four years, we had only met at a few business events, each one formal and filled with unspoken feelings. This gathering felt different. There were rumors that Father might announce the transfer of TerraTraxx Automotive's chairmanship to Amir, which would change the company's future. "Mommy!" I heard Rowan cry out. I went to the door to see what the commotion was about. As I opened it, I found my son with tears streaming down his chubby cheeks, his tiny body shaking with each sob. "Mommy, Iris ate my favorite snack. She finished all the cheese headstrings that were for me!" He cried even harder. Kneeling, I wiped his tears away with my thumb while my thoughts were consumed with the implications—Iris's tendency to overeat frequently led to stomachaches, causing me concern. Holding Rowan's small, warm hand in mine, I called out, "Iris!" T
Jane Seeking my brother Philip's advice, I came to Highland Hills, desperate for his support during this difficult time. For four years, I managed the modeling agency, a sub-company of Luminary Productions in London and Paris. Alongside my career, I continued therapy to address my past traumas. The weekly sessions, though often painful, have gradually cleared my mind. To atone for what I did to Sarah, I devoted myself to my work. My marriage to Brody Martin has been nothing more than a well-orchestrated charade—a typically arranged marriage designed to benefit our families rather than our hearts. He owns a chemical empire and is a cousin of the brothers Bronn and Jakob. Philip spoke after hearing my story. "You mean to say, after you returned from Paris, you found your husband in the apartment at The Strata with his secretary? And at that moment, you decided to end your four-year marriage? Now you're here, asking me to break the news to Dad that your marriage with Brody didn't wor
Jane "Jane!" Brody's voice echoed through the hallway, making me freeze. Oh no! He was really here. My heart raced as I approached the door and peeked through the peephole. Brody was on the other side, his broad shoulders filling the frame. His usual neat look was a bit messy—his necktie was crooked, his top button undone, and a hint of stubble darkened his jaw. Should I open the door? "I know you're there, Jane," he said, his voice low and steady. Taking a deep breath, I slowly turned the lock. The click felt loud in the quiet. When the door opened, our eyes met, and the months apart vanished instantly. Brody's eyes scanned my face, lingering on my swollen eyes that showed I'd been crying. I saw a mix of emotions pass over his face: concern, guilt, and something more intense. Without a word, he stepped inside. The scent of his cologne enveloped me as he pushed the heavy oak door closed with his foot. Before I could gather my thoughts, his hands cupped my face, thumbs gentl
Jane When did I genuinely start falling for him so deeply? It was that night four years ago, during a crisp autumn in London. Brody was abroad on a business trip. I was overworked and sick at the time. I had just returned from Paris, feeling dizzy as I stepped into our penthouse in Mayfair. I sneezed as I texted him. Me: 'Just got back from a business trip. What do you want for dinner?' Almost instantly, Brody replied: 'I'm on a business trip in New York. You didn't tell me you were coming back today.' I had wanted to surprise him, so I kept my return a secret. But he hadn't mentioned his trip to me either. Me: 'Alright! Take care!' My nose, already raw and red from constant sneezing, throbbed as I hit send. I dragged myself to the ensuite bathroom, leaving a trail of discarded clothes behind me. The hot shower offered momentary relief, but the room began to spin uncontrollably as I stepped out, wrapped in Brody's oversized bathrobe. I collapsed onto our king-sized bed. The e
Jane Tears welled up in my eyes as I watched Philip and Sarah's fairy-tale wedding. We were in Dubai, at Grandpa Mitchell's mansion, surrounded by a small circle of close friends and family, all gathered to witness the couple's intimate vows. Yet, as they exchanged their promises of love, a deep sense of incompleteness washed over me. Perhaps there's truth in the saying that when life becomes a cycle of repetition—office, work, the Cornell mansion, and back again—you start to feel like something important is missing. After the ceremony, I embraced Sarah tightly, tears threatening to spill. "Congratulations, love!" The celebration continued, but my thoughts were elsewhere. I knew I needed to return to London to calm my churning emotions. "Auntie Jane, are you alright?" Iris asked, her voice full of concern as she sat beside me at the round table with Rowan by her side. I plastered on a smile, hoping it looked genuine. "Yes, sweetheart. Why do you ask?" "You look sad." I manage
Sarah My father, Mr. Benner, contacted me again. After years of estrangement, I decided it was time to meet him and finally confront our tumultuous past. Accompanied by Trey, I arrived at the hotel suite where he was staying. His assistant, a woman in her thirties, greeted us at the door with a smile. "Good afternoon, Ms. Mitchell!" she said warmly. "Hello," I managed. "Please, come in," she said, stepping aside to let me enter. I walked across the plush carpet until I saw Mr. Benner. My father, once a towering figure of authority, now sat in a wheelchair. His once jet-black hair had faded to steel gray, and deep lines etched his face. It had been a long time since he had disowned me. "I'm so happy to see you, Sarah," he said, his voice filled with emotion. "You've lost so much weight, my dear…" 'My dear…' I approached him, extending a carefully wrapped package. "I brought you something," I said, "Three first editions by Haruki Murakami. Your favorite." He smiled appreci
Sarah Philip gently removed my simple white dress, his eyes filled with a mixture of love and concern as he took in my changed appearance. "W-why are you doing this? Philip, I just came out of a coma. I'm not ready for anything... physical." I said honestly. After nearly two years of medical interventions, my body was still fragile, and I had only been recovering for a month. His gaze softened immediately. "Oh, Sarah, no. That's not why… I'm not trying to take advantage of you. It's just that…" He examined my skin and my arm, which had thinned considerably. I felt a bit uncomfortable with what he was doing. "You've lost so much weight." A flicker of insecurity flashed through me. I pouted and squinted at him. "What do you mean by that? Do you find me unattractive?" "No, no. No, babe!" he vehemently denied. "That's not what I meant. It's just…" It took a while before Philip continued. "I vividly remember the day Marcus shot you. Your last appearance is etched in my mind. I
Philip I'm here at Serenity Pines Estate, seeking a bit of solitude before midnight passes. Despite weeks of working nonstop, Sarah's presence lingered everywhere. Her hold on my heart hasn't faded with time or distance. As soon as I stepped through the door, it felt like I could see a younger Sarah sitting on the couch, waiting for me. In my mind's eye, she stood, a warm smile gracing her lips. "Have you eaten?" Reality hit hard as my fist clenched. These were just memories, as delicate as spun glass. I walked to the kitchen, where the marble countertops glowed in the moonlight. My hands shook as I reached for the crystal decanter, pouring a generous amount of aged scotch. The amber liquid shimmered, offering a brief escape from my thoughts. I bought Serenity Pines on the second night Sarah and I were married, ensuring it had top-notch security. Sarah might not have noticed, but every part of this home was a tribute to her—from the soft cream bedroom walls to the handcrafted boo
Sarah When asked about my first destination, I pointed towards the school, my heart racing with anticipation. I love Philip deeply, and today is his birthday, but nothing could surpass the joy of reuniting with my children. The school bell rang, and a flood of children poured out of the ornate iron gates. The twins emerged from the gate precisely as planned, followed closely by Josh, who ensured their safety. At first, they didn't recognize me. I felt like a stranger in my own skin, having lost nearly fifty pounds since we last met. Their confused looks tugged at my heart, but I understood. I always will. Iris clutched her beloved rabbit doll, and Rowan had their lunchbox. Tears began to well up in my eyes, but I wiped them away to see the twins more clearly. There was a noticeable difference in how they've changed. They're taller now. Rowan wears glasses, and Iris's skin has lightened. My beautiful, growing children... "Kids, your mom…" I read Josh's lips. His eyes widened
Sarah It felt like drifting through an endless dream, each moment stretching into eternity. After my firstborn's death, grief enveloped me like a suffocating shroud. I retreated, closing my heart and mind to the outside world. Joy became a foreign concept, a distant memory I could no longer grasp. Nothing could penetrate the fog of my sorrow because deep down, I knew I was fundamentally broken—I was not okay. Just like then, my mind feels closed off, wrapped in a thick layer of ice. Driving aimlessly, stopping several times to watch the setting sun. I'm heading into darkness, but whenever I hear my children's voices... Philip... these beloved sounds tug at me, urging me to turn back towards the fading light. But why did I also hear my mother's voice? I resume my journey. The world around me has been leached of color as if a cosmic artist has erased all pigment from the canvas of reality. I'm traveling through an endless road surrounded by empty deserts. The monotony should be
Philip A week passed, then two, then three… Ethan eventually had to ask me to leave, as some patients needed the hospital's facilities more. "I can visit you at Serenity Pines, or even drop by Luminary Productions if you need someone to clean your wounds," Ethan offered. I remained silent. I wanted to stay at the hospital because Sarah was here. Fear gnawed at my chest, making sleep impossible. I was paralyzed by the terror of receiving the devastating news that my wife had passed away, that her body had finally given out, or any other heart-wrenching update while she was out of my reach. As much as I wanted to stay by Sarah's side, I couldn't longer ignore our children's needs. Iris and Rowan needed stability and a bit of normalcy. The hospital, with its sick patients and germs, wasn't a good place for a four-year-old to stay. Rowan's small voice interrupted my thoughts while I changed into a clean t-shirt in my ward, trying to gather the energy to face another day. "Uncle Eth