Alessia glanced around the living room, where family photographs adorned the walls.With a heavy sigh, she made a silent promise to herself and to Milo.She would protect him fiercely, no matter what challenges lay ahead.If it came down to it, she was prepared to move away from Veridian to ensure her son’s safety and happiness.***The next morning, Alessia dragged herself to work with dark circles under her eyes.As she walked into the polished lobby of Wilde Enterprises, she couldn’t help but feel self-conscious.The pristine marble floors reflected the grandeur of the high-rise building, and the expansive space was filled with a sea of men and women dressed in tailored or pressed suits, skirts, and polished shoes.Their coiffed hairstyles, subtle makeup, and refined but not flashy jewellery added to the air of sophistication that surrounded them.Meanwhile, Alessia stood there, acutely aware of her own appearance.Her white shirt, although neat and ironed, was a few years old, and
Seeing how serious she looked and how pale she had become, Logan realised she wasn’t joking.He gave the question some serious consideration before replying, ‘I probably would fight for custody. It’s my son. Why should I allow anyone to take him?’Alessia swallowed hard. ‘I see,’ she replied softly.Logan noticed the distress in her eyes and reached out to touch her hand gently. ‘What’s gotten into you? Why so many random questions today?’Alessia quickly deflected. ‘Nothing, I’m just curious to know what you think.’Logan studied her for a moment, trying to read her emotions.He wanted to ask if she knew about Arlie, but he couldn’t risk giving away the secret if she hadn’t already discovered it on her own.Alessia got up. ‘Excuse me, I need to use the ladies’ room.’She hurried to the restroom, her mind a mess.If Logan learned about Milo’s existence, would he try to take him away from her?Had the DNA test been a mistake?Perhaps she shouldn’t have pushed so hard for answers.The i
Samantha, the youngest of the three, but no less assertive, chimed in, ‘Furthermore, Mr Wilde’s vision for Veridian Plaza is the driving force behind this project. His expertise and innovative ideas are the backbone of what will make this shopping mall a grand success.’Connie’s eyes flashed with frustration, but she refused to back down. ‘We’re not saying Wilde Enterprises doesn’t play a significant role, but Redwood’s contribution shouldn’t be underestimated. We need a fair share of the profits in return.’Logan, who had been observing the heated exchange, finally spoke up, his voice commanding attention, ‘Enough. We are not here to bicker like children. Let’s take a break.’Connie bristled at his dismissive tone but begrudgingly fell silent.Alessia tried to follow the conversation, her fingers moving swiftly over the keypad of her laptop.But it was hard to focus.Whenever she looked at Logan, she thought of Milo.Whenever she looked at Connie, she thought of Leo.And it was impos
Logan picked up a file from the table and tossed it in front of Connie. ‘Brick-laying robots, semi-automated masons, robotic heat welders, and remote-controlled demolition robots. I got all these from a construction company looking to expand into Veridian. They’ve only been in business for two years, but it seems they are light-years ahead of you in terms of technology.’Connie’s face flushed with embarrassment and frustration as she flipped through the file.‘You said you needed four to five years to complete the construction of Veridian Plaza. This company says they can do it in two,’ Logan added.Her anger rising, Connie retorted, ‘If you’re interested in working with someone else, why are you still talking to us? Are you just stringing me along?’Logan leaned back in his chair, maintaining his composure. ‘No, I’ve given you four separate meetings,’ he replied coolly, ‘yet you did not once bring up anything unique. Why shouldn’t I consider working with someone who’s better, smarter
Alessia checked the time on her watch and raised an eyebrow. ‘But it’s only ten twenty-five am.’Logan shrugged nonchalantly. ‘What’s wrong with an early lunch? I’m the boss; I can take my lunch break whenever I want.’ He turned back to Alessia with a sly grin. ‘And you are paying.’Alessia protested, ‘Why?’Logan’s grin widened. ‘You lost the bet, remember?’ he reminded her.Alessia had to jog to match his long strides. ‘But you already claimed your...your winnings.’Logan chuckled. ‘That I did, and you would only get free lunches if you won the bet. Since you didn’t, you are paying.’Alessia huffed. ‘Fine, but I hope your stomach can stand the trial of a fiery chole bhature.’‘What the hell is that?’Alessia couldn’t help but smirk.‘What’s the matter, Mr Cosmopolitan?’ she teased. ‘Never heard of it before? I thought you’ve been to so many places.’She explained, ‘It’s chickpea curry with fried flatbreads. There’s a vendor selling it out of a food truck parked just a block from you
Brayden attempted to fight back, but Logan’s years of experience and decisiveness gave him the upper hand.He anticipated Brayden’s moves, dodging and countering with precision.Alessia, shocked by the sudden turn of events, felt a mix of emotions swirling inside her.Part of her wanted to intervene and stop the fight, but another part of her knew that Brayden needed to be confronted for his hurtful behaviour.In fact, if they weren’t in public, Alessia would have liked to add a punch or two of her own.The fight was fierce, both men throwing punches and dodging blows.Logan’s dominance and physical strength were evident as he maintained control, landing most of the hits.As the crowd gathered to watch the unexpected brawl, Alessia finally stepped forward, placing herself between the two men, attempting to put an end to the altercation.‘Enough!’ she shouted.Logan landed one last gut punch before pulling back.Brayden was panting and holding his stomach, his arrogance now replaced wi
Alessia considered freelance writing, tutoring, and even social media management.As she trawled the internet, a news article jumped out at her—‘Donatella Pagano Missing for Over Three Days and Police Have No Leads.’Then she realised there was already one opportunity within her grasp.Alessia paced back and forth in the living room, her phone pressed to her ear as she called Heath, hoping he would pick up.He did.‘Hey, Heath, sorry for calling at this hour. How’s it going with the investigation?’ Alessia asked, already knowing the answer.Heath sighed heavily on the other end of the line. ‘It’s been a wild ride, I tell you, Alessia. Donatella had her hands in so many pies, it’s hard to keep track. I’ve been juggling multiple cases, and hers is like untangling a bloody spider’s web. Today alone, I’ve interviewed over fifty people, and guess what? Most of them either played dumb or acted like I’m not even worth a second of their time!’‘Ugh, that doesn’t surprise me. Donatella always
After finishing his drink, Heath returned to his work, slogging through case files and trying to identify any potential clue that could crack the missing person case.Before becoming a detective, he had worked with the canine unit, traffic division, and had even started as a patrol officer.The allure of being a detective had initially excited him—the thrill of solving cases, following clues, and engaging in battles of wits against suspects.However, lately, he found himself yearning for something more, for new challenges that would keep him on his toes.As he glanced at the stack of case files, a thought crossed his mind.Perhaps he should consider becoming a private investigator after his current caseload was over.Heath chuckled at the idea of himself doing stake-outs and snapping photos of cheating husbands.***The early morning sun cast a warm glow over Cafe Blendro as Alessia pushed open the door and walked in.The aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air, and the buzz of
The city lights shimmered through the window, casting a soft glow over Alessia’s hotel room.She sank into the plush armchair, exhaling a weariness that settled deep into her bones.The day had been a whirlwind of interviews and deadlines, leaving her both physically and mentally drained.With a flick of her wrist, she loosened the tight bun that held her long hair, letting it cascade down her shoulders in unruly waves.The laptop on the polished mahogany table beckoned, a testament to the professional demands that consumed her day.Alessia leaned forward, fingers dancing across the keys as she organized her interview notes, a meticulous symphony of clicks and clacks.She paused, her gaze shifting to the phone by her side.Two missed calls from an unknown number flashed on the screen, and her heart skipped a beat.For a moment, hope surged through her—perhaps it was Logan.But as she listened to the voicemail, disappointment settled in.It was merely a wrong number, a mundane interrup
With the briefcase in hand, Logan left the office and got in his car.He did not involve Terence; the meeting could be dangerous.Besides, he had backup.Logan raced through the city streets, weaving through traffic with a desperate determination.The clock was ticking, and the warehouse loomed ahead like a dark, ominous secret.As he approached the entrance, the flickering neon lights buzzed overhead, casting eerie shadows on the crumbling walls.Logan stepped into the darkness, the echoes of his footsteps the only sound in the desolate space.A figure emerged from the shadows, wearing a hooded jacket to conceal their identity.Logan’s pulse quickened, his senses on high alert.‘I brought the money, now show me Sirena,’ he demanded, his voice steady but edged with a simmering rage.The figure chuckled, the sound echoing eerily through the cavernous space. ‘Impatient, aren’t we?’He pulled out a phone from his pocket.With a swift motion, he tapped the screen, and a small screen on th
The city lights glittered below as Alessia and Vince sat in a trendy rooftop bar in Hamborough, taking in the breathtaking view.The change of scenery had indeed granted Alessia a temporary escape from the complexities of her life back in Veridian.Alessia raised her glass, sipping a colourful cocktail. ‘Here’s to new beginnings and escaping the chaos,’ she said with a half-smile.Vince clinked his glass with hers. ‘To new beginnings,’ he echoed, a faint smile playing on his lips.As the evening unfolded, the atmosphere became more relaxed.The city buzzed around them, providing a backdrop for a momentary reprieve.Alessia found herself enjoying Vince’s company, appreciating the unspoken connection they had cultivated over the years.Amidst the clinking of glasses and the distant hum of the city, Alessia sensed an opportunity to share the intricacies of her life.She turned to Vince, her eyes reflecting a mixture of weariness and determination.‘You know, Vince, Logan’s first marriage
Logan’s office at Wilde Enterprises was a haven of order in contrast to the chaos unravelling in his personal life.The sterile hum of fluorescent lights bathed the room as he sifted through paperwork, attempting to find solace in the routine of his professional responsibilities.His phone buzzed, the screen lighting up with Heath’s name.Logan’s heart skipped a beat as he answered the call, the outside world fading away as he focused on the voice at the other end.‘Heath,’ Logan greeted, his tone carrying the weight of worry.‘We found her,’ Heath’s voice crackled through the phone. ‘She was at the BuzzBeat office. Got into a bit of a scuffle with Alessia.’Logan’s temples throbbed in response, the news striking him like a physical blow. ‘Alessia? Is she okay?’There was a pause on the line, and Logan could almost feel the hesitation in Heath’s response. ‘According to the colleague who filed the police report, she’s got a couple of scratches, but otherwise, she’s fine.’Relief washed
The room was cloaked in a muted glow from the bedside lamp, casting a warm light on the framed photographs that adorned the walls.Sirena moved silently, her eyes scanning each corner of her parents’ room as she began the meticulous search for anything of value.Ralph was still in intensive care, which meant Naomi wouldn’t leave his side, giving Sirena the time she needed for a thorough search.Her fingers brushed against the cool surface of a polished wooden dresser, adorned with small trinkets that echoed the laughter of her childhood.A porcelain figurine, a relic from a family vacation, stood alongside a faded picture of her parents and a much younger Sirena.The memories were bittersweet, a reminder of the life she had left behind.As Sirena opened drawers with deliberate care, the soft rustling of papers mixed with the creak of aged furniture.In one drawer, she found a stack of handwritten letters tied together with a ribbon.Memories of birthday wishes, expressions of love, an
The Veridian airport bustled with a kinetic energy that only a major transport hub could exude.Travellers weaved through the expansive terminal, navigating a sea of bustling crowds and rolling luggage.The air hummed with the constant murmur of announcements, the clatter of footsteps, and the intermittent symphony of departure gates chiming to life.Alessia, her eyes scanning the digital departure board, stood amidst the organized chaos.The Veridian airport, a sprawling architectural marvel, boasted high ceilings adorned with sleek modern designs.Concourse shops beckoned with an array of luxury goods, and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafted through the air from the bustling cafes.It had been a long time since she flew—juggling a job and raising two kids hadn’t left a lot of time for the luxury of flying.‘Hey, I thought that was you.’ Someone tapped her on the shoulder.Alessia, startled, turned around to find Vince, a smile playing on his lips.‘Vince, what are you doing he
Naomi scoffed, bitterness lacing her tone. ‘Make things right? Can you bring back the peace we had before you barged in with your promises and complications?’Logan shook his head. ‘I can’t change the past, Naomi, but I can help with the present. Let me take care of Ralph’s medical bills. It’s the least I can do.’Her expression hardened, and she retorted, ‘Money won’t fix the damage you’ve caused. Sirena is missing, Ralph’s heart is failing, and our lives are in shambles. Don’t pretend you can fix it with a cheque.’Her words were still ringing in his head hours later.Logan stood on the roof, smoking, lost in thought, until his phone rang with an urgency that cut through the air like a serrated blade.He glanced at the caller ID, and a sinking feeling gripped his stomach as he answered.‘Logan, what the hell is going on?’ Albert’s voice, usually a bastion of calm, resonated with a furious edge. ‘Alessia called me, all cold and distant, calling me Mr Wilde instead of Grandpa. And she
‘Ralph! Naomi, call an ambulance!’ Logan’s urgency cut through the stunned silence, and Naomi, her face pale with shock, fumbled for her phone.Panic swirled in the room as Ralph clutched his chest, beads of sweat forming on his forehead.He toppled backwards.‘Ralph!’ Logan caught the old man in time.Within moments, the wail of an ambulance echoed through the quiet neighbourhood.Naomi and Logan hurriedly helped Ralph onto a stretcher, his face strained with agony.The ambulance doors slammed shut, trapping the trio in a suffocating bubble of uncertainty.The ambulance tore through the city’s arteries, its siren piercing.Inside, the confined space thrummed with urgency.Naomi clung to the edge of her seat, her eyes unblinking as she watched the paramedics work on her husband.Ralph lay supine on the stretcher—his heart just stopped.The heart monitor emitted a relentless warning beep.Naomi’s hands trembled as she tried to steady herself, the medical jargon exchanged by the paramed
Naomi stirred the simmering chicken soup, the aroma filling the kitchen with warmth.She glanced at Ralph, who was grabbing his keys.‘Ready to head to the hospital?’ he asked.‘Absolutely,’ Naomi replied, wiping her hands on her apron. ‘Hand me the thermos.’They were only allowed to visit Sirena once each day, the visit lasting no longer than half an hour.The doctor explained that the restricted visits were important to establish routine in Sirena’s life.As they prepared to leave, they heard a knock on the door.Surprised, they exchanged a puzzled glance before opening the door.Standing on their doorstep was Logan. ‘Can we talk?’Naomi and Ralph exchanged a wary look but nodded, allowing him inside.Logan took a deep breath, eyeing them both. ‘I’m sure you know why I’m here. I need Sirena to sign those divorce papers.’It had been almost three days since Sirena’s hospitalisation, and Logan had waited long enough.Naomi’s lips trembled. ‘Logan, we can’t believe you’ve moved on so