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Sarah Megan's plan of attack was swift and reckless. She lunged at me, hands outstretched towards my neck in an attempt to strangle me. But Josh saw it coming and swiftly intervened, grabbing her wrists and pulling her away. "You're nothing but a hindrance in my life!" Megan shouted, her face contorted with rage. "What do you really have, huh? No matter what you do, Philip will never love you! Never! He pities you because your innocent baby died!" My jaw clenched at her words. Of all the cruel things Megan could have said, mentioning the death of my unborn baby was the worst. Fury boiled inside me as I stepped closer and slapped her hard across the face. Megan trembled with rage, holding her reddened cheek. "Y-you—! I will kill you!" I met her fury with a dark stare until she looked away. Grabbing her chin, I squeezed it. "You still don't get it. The authorities are looking for Madam Cornell because Dr. Smith implicated my mother-in-law. But they don't know yet that you were an ac
Philip Under the star-studded night sky, the base of the racetrack buzzed with shouts and jeers. Tensions crackled at the starting line as engines roared, their exhaust fumes blending with the mountain breeze. Orlie Petrov, his face etched with worry lines, met me at the starting grid, grasping my shoulder with an urgency that matched his grim expression. "Philip, you shouldn't have agreed to this! This underground race is too dangerous. If something goes wrong, it could utterly destroy your hard-earned reputation as a professional racer," he pleaded, eyes boring into mine. Shrugging off his grip, shaking my head and returned his intense stare. "Orlie, you're the reason I'm in this mess! You introduced me to Mariano!" I growled through gritted teeth. He looked taken aback but persisted. "There's still time to back out." "Walk away and risk and face a third punishment? I ignored the first test, and this is the second, Orlie! The third might be my death!" We both knew Mariano's p
Sarah Outwardly, I appeared calm while waiting for midnight, but my mind was utterly restless. It was already ten o'clock in the evening; I only had to endure the wait for two more hours. Since eight that evening, I had been on a group video call with Jakob and the rest of our LoveLogic team, my friend Jane included. I was sequestered alone in my bedroom while Jane participated from the living room. We managed to recruit five additional developers, one of whom had taken over my former coding responsibilities for the application. "The early download numbers are very promising," Jakob informed us, reading through some of the glowing app reviews we'd received so far. A few thousand users and counting have installed LoveLogic, and the feedback has been tremendously positive." Though my eyes were fixed on the screen, my mind couldn't focus on the meeting. It kept drifting elsewhere. "Sarah?" Jakob's voice called out. "Sarah! Jane, did you lose her video feed?" Confusion was evident o
Sarah Dread washed over me like a storm cloud, dragging a wave of anxiety that clawed at my throat. My breaths grew shallow as Amir's group came closer, my eyes glued to them, unable to look away. "I've been observing your movements closely, Sarah. Perhaps you've conveniently forgotten, but I own the villa you reside in. I know precisely what you've been up to," Amir stated firmly. I approached him, pleading, "Amir, please…" I want to see Philip! But I didn't voice that aloud. He shook his head incredulously. "Sarah, seriously! What on earth do you think you're doing? Do you understand the danger you're carelessly putting yourself in?" Hot tears pricked at the corners of my eyes, slowly welling up as my chest constricted painfully with the weight of unspoken desires. Amir grasped my arm gently and spoke in a reassuring tone. "They are doing everything they can to find Philip. You're in danger; Mariano has targeted you, but I've done everything in my power to prevent that. So, I
Sarah "That doesn't make any sense!" Madam Olsen scoffed, shaking her head at Josh's statement. Josh remained resolute. "All I know for certain is that Mariano is a woman masquerading as a man, and Megan is that person." Madam Olsen's expression grew serious as she turned her penetrating gaze towards me. "Unbelievable! Are you sure about this, Sarah?" I met her stare without flinching, my face emotionless. "I apologize, Madam Olsen, but perhaps you've forgotten that I severed all romantic ties with Philip Cornell long ago." I clenched my jaw defiantly. "You!" She pointed an accusing finger at Josh. "You will come with us immediately. I intend to apprehend President Cornell because he's become an intolerable nuisance!" "You will not lay a hand on my bodyguard!" I warned Madam Olsen. "It's funny that you have more concern for your bodyguard than your husband." She sneered. "Ex-husband!" I corrected sharply. Amir guided me away from Madam Olsen's group. As I turned and walked awa
Sarah I've been feeling unwell for the past few days with dizziness, nausea, and occasional vomiting episodes. These symptoms have intensified recently, likely due to the early stages of my pregnancy. I want to see Philip, and in order to calm me, I keep thinking he's doing well. Will I remain hidden away in my grandfather's mansion for an entire year? I want my child to be safe, but should I let fear control me because of what happened before? Absolutely not! Jane has been providing regular updates, informing me that Philip remains unconscious, but his condition is no longer critical. I suppose I should let Philip regain consciousness naturally. I've heard his condition was terrible when he was rescued from Madam Olsen. I'm trying not to dwell on it for my mental well-being. In the meantime, I'm organizing my schedule. I have some important gatherings to attend before my pregnancy becomes noticeable. I've talked to Emily, and we have an important event in New York hosted by a
Sarah Serenity Pines Estate "You may now come in, Sarah." Ethan's voice was somber as he spoke. He stood next to another doctor, both looking serious after examining Philip. I entered the bedroom I had shared with Philip for three years. So much had happened here. This is where I experienced waiting for him as his wife, where I made him feel my overwhelming love. This room held everything, including the night we conceived our first child. Perhaps it was where we created the new life growing inside me. My lips formed a straight line when I saw him lying down. Ethan closed the door behind me, giving us privacy for whatever words might be spoken or left unsaid. I stood at the foot of the bed, taking in the sight of my husband surrounded by a tangle of machines and wires. 'See you soon, my love…' Those were the words Philip said the last time we saw each other in Las Vegas. The memory brought tears to my eyes. Legs shaking, I sat down beside him, staring intently at his pale lips, t
Sarah Madam Cornell informed me that she would hand over Jane once I transferred her the remaining 100 million dollars. Chairman Cornell prepared the initial 100 million in cash, already stashed in a van. Due to the cruise ship's vast size, we have yet to learn where Jane is hidden. However, the exchange is set for half an hour before the ship's scheduled departure, adding to the urgency and complexity of the situation. I will give the car key to Madam Cornell, who will have it inspected by her lackey. Following that, we will proceed to the next step: her handing Jane over to me in exchange for the additional 100 million dollars, which I will then transfer via EFT to various accounts. She strictly warned me that she would harm Jane if I didn't comply. She chose the cruise ship because of the many guests who could potentially get hurt. Bronn and Emily are pretending to be a honeymooning couple. Josh, Assistant Alex, and five additional bodyguards are with me. Jakob and another
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