Sarah When I woke up, I felt the comforting warmth of Philip's arms wrapped around me, his breath gentle against my neck. 'Shit! What time is it?' My eyes darted to the digital clock on the bedside table, widening in alarm at the numbers staring back at me. I tried to slip out of Philip's embrace, but he groaned in protest and tightened his hold. "Philip, I'm going to be late. We have to get up now." As I spoke, his rough hand slipped under my shirt, brazenly cupping my breast. He even dared to pinch it and rolled my nipple over his fingers. Is this scoundrel seriously touching me in broad daylight? "Philip!" "It felt nice," he murmured in my ear, his voice rough from sleep. "Clearly! Because you're perving on me!" I swatted his hand away. "And don't forget, your belongings are still at Serenity Pines. Moreover, I must get ready for work and ensure Jane feels welcome." He blinked awake. "Hmm! Why are you only focusing on Jane? Feed me first." I arched an eyeb
Sarah I accompanied Philip to Serenity Pines Estate. Philip had rearranged our meeting schedule due to our shared involvement in investigating the tragic fire that had engulfed the witch's residence. As we arrived, I noticed two investigators at the villa engaged in a tense conversation with Megan. Megan's surprise was palpable as her eyes met mine, a flicker of disbelief crossing her features. Clearly, she hadn't anticipated my presence at the villa, and the realization seemed to catch her off guard. "It's you! You're the reason my home burned down!" she immediately yelled at me. ‘Whaaat?! Is she serious? What did I do?’ I responded calmly, "Megan, be careful with your accusations. Remember, I can sue you for defamation. And are you absolutely certain that I'm the one responsible for the fire at your villa?" "Of course! No one else would do that to me but you!" she snapped back. "Megan, don't just accuse Sarah," Philip interjected. The woman's teeth clenched and her fist tigh
Sarah "What are you doing?" Josh's voice cut through the air. I strained to listen more closely, climbing onto the toilet to catch the voices more clearly. Thankfully, my thoughts hadn't deceived me. The sound was faint, barely more than a whisper since I was eavesdropping from the bathroom, hoping to catch any helpful information. "Go away! I need to smoke to ease my stress, and it doesn't help seeing you here!" Megan's voice was sharp with irritation as she shouted at the bodyguard. "You know it's not Sarah Mitchell. Why are you accusing her of what happened at the villa?" Josh pressed. "I don't need your opinion! Why are you even on Philip's team, huh? To mess with me?" Megan snapped back. "Yes, that's right! You'll see me every day, Megan," Josh's voice trembled with intensity. "This is what you've brought upon me and my family." His anger was palpable "Let go of me, you jerk!" Megan's voice rose in fury. "And you are the most despicable person I've ever met! You're a cunt!
Sarah Reading Jakob's message, I carefully calculated my next steps. Approaching Josh directly about the information we had gathered wasn't an option. I replied: One thing I'm certain about him—he loved Megan, which is why he's seeking answers. And when people love someone, they can do reckless things. Jakob: Agreed. I still needed to figure out if I could trust Josh. Jakob and I need to watch his actions closely. Megan will do whatever it takes, and given their past relationship, it will be easier for her to gain Josh's trust. Me: We must launch LoveLogic. Jakob: That's why we're putting in the effort, doll. Now, we need backing from BM's major sponsors. I need to secure some software and security tools. By the way, are you attending the Langston event because of Madam Cornell's connection with them? Bronn probably informed him about it. Me: Yes. Also, I want to meet the Langstons to try to get their support. According to Bronn, Langston is one of the major sponsors
Sarah The secretary who used to work for Philip met me with a defiant look as I approached her in the lobby. Back then, I thought Philip had betrayed me and disrespected our marriage. Now I realize this woman dealt a huge blow to my self-worth. However, where was Philip when the secretary was having sex with his uncle or whoever it was? And why did she choose my ex-husband's office for their sordid affair? Why was I so foolish to allow these people to oppress me? What was her name again? "What do you need from me?" I asked, masking my emotions. She raised an eyebrow, poised for confrontation. "Can I talk to you?" "What is this about?" I asked, looking innocent like a lost little girl facing the big bad wolf. "It's about Boss Philip." "The truth is I'm busy, but I'll give you five minutes if it's brief," I said. She stared at me intently, likely scrutinizing my reactions. I knew she suspected I would soon be working at Luminary Productions, and I didn't want her interference.
Philip After the meeting, I was taken aback to find my mother waiting for me. I initially thought she was scheming to stir up trouble for Sarah again. However, her words took me by surprise. "Son, are you busy? I wanted to invite you to have dinner," Mother stated. "I'm always busy, Mother," I muttered as I reviewed one document. "But I'm fine with dinner tonight." I had my reasons for wanting to talk to her, so I agreed to accompany her. Some matters needed to be clarified, secrets that had come to light, especially concerning Sarah and her involvement. She needed to know what I had discovered. "Don't neglect yourself. You've been so preoccupied that we don't get to talk properly. We don't see each other anymore. You're often on trips, and I have also heard Sarah is staying at Mr. Benner's villa." I remained silent in the presence of my mother. At that moment, delving into a conversation was not on my agenda. My focus was tethered to my work, and I had no intention of allowing
Sarah My intuition proved accurate regarding Madam Cornell's behavior. She only displayed courage when she believed I wouldn't challenge her actions. However, upon realizing my willingness to confront her, she couldn't stand it and left. Her anger towards me intensified because she could no longer control Philip. I will uncover Madam Cornell's weakness. Megan remained seated, jaw clenched, struggling to regain her composure. Nevertheless, she tried to recover. "Philip, you don't truly love Sarah. Do you think if your baby with her were alive, you would have a happy life? Do you really believe it would help your position as the prospective president while she's pregnant? Your mother was right! One thing is certain about your relationship with Sarah while I was gone - you don't respect or love her. You despise her!" Megan declared, her voice steady but filled with contempt. She stood up, casting a furious glance in my direction. She was right. It was this realization that prompted m
Sarah Heat exploded across my body, coursing down my chest to pool between my thighs. My pulse thundered wildly, my legs shaking as they squeezed together with an achy need for Philip. "What do you want me to do, Sarah?" Philip gently laid me on the bed before towering over me. His fingers threaded through my hair, holding me with a tender yet firm grip, as if he was determined to remain entwined with me, no matter my protests. Under different circumstances, I might have wanted him to leave me alone, but now I was wet, burning, craving him desperately. My heart yearned for his love, even if it seemed impossible. His mouth crashed onto mine with searing passion. My legs snaked around his firm backside as I responded fervently to his damning kisses. After I nearly lost my breath from the intensity, his mouth trailed down to devour the sensitive skin of my neck. I could feel the throbbing need in my core pulsating with each passing moment, my body curling with pleasure against the so
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