Chapter 13
Emma's POV I stood there, my fist clenched in anger and pain, as I remembered Michael's passionate declaration of love for that woman. It hurt, especially after our kiss just moments before ; a kiss that came after five years of waiting. He hadn't even hugged me, and now he was telling Ambrose how much he loved Freya, but his eyes told a different story. "I want to make her pay," I whispered, my voice trembling with rage. "I want to crush her and make her cry. I want to make her feel miserable." A warm hand on my back interrupted my venomous thoughts, and for a moment, I wished it was Michael, declaring his love for me. But the hand belonged to Ambrose, his eyes filled with a mix of pity and anger as he gazed at me. "Ambrose..." I choked, my voice cracking as tears streamed down my face. "I love him," I whispered, my voice trembling. "I love Michael... so much. Why is he defending his marriage to Freya?" I asked, desperately. "You told me it was all a sham, didn't you?" I pleaded, trying to wipe away my tears. Ambrose's expression turned serious. "That's exactly why you need to be rational right now. If you show weakness, they'll take advantage of you. You need to be strong, Emma, and fight for yourself." But his words didn't sink in. I was too sad, and I crumbled into tears once more. "I never thought I'd have to fight for Michael," I sobbed. "We've been through so much together. I know I left him, but is this really the punishment I deserve?" "Emma!" Ambrose snapped, his patience running out. "What's wrong with you? Can't you see what's going on? Michael doesn't love Freya; he's only with her for the inheritance. I can prove it to you," he said, his words hanging in the air. I felt a surge of anxiety as I waited for him to continue. "But I can't guarantee his feelings will remain the same towards you if you don't do something to stop them. Don't be stupid, Emma," he warned, his concern for me evident in his tone. I closed my eyes, feeling a mix of emotions.I took a deep breath, finally coming into a conclusion. I wouldn't let anyone take Michael away from me. If he wasn't willing to fight for our love, I would. Even if it meant temporarily distancing myself from him to ultimately bring him closer. "What do you need me to do?" I asked, a newfound determination in my voice. Ambrose's lips curled into a triumphant smile, and I could sense his approval. "That's my Emma," Ambrose said, his eyes gleaming with approval. "I've always known you as a strong woman." I forced a smile, but inside, I was torn. Joining forces with Ambrose felt like a betrayal, but if it meant winning Michael back, I was willing to do it. Five years ago, I had run from Michael, abandoning him without a word. Fear had consumed me after the accident, and I had let it dictate my actions. But now, I was ready to fight for him, no matter the cost. Ambrose's words echoed in my mind: "You don't have to be weak, Emma. You have the strength within you. No one will take what's yours from you." I nodded, a newfound determination coursing through my veins. "Come here," Ambrose said, leading me to a quieter spot. I followed, my heart pounding with anticipation, ready to take the first step in reclaiming what was mine. "So, here's the plan," Ambrose said. "Don't worry about Raymond and Alexis; they're on my side. I need you to get me evidence of Michael's contract marriage. Something that will prove his guilt in a court of law." My heart skipped a beat. "Law court? You mean, Michael could go to jail?" I exclaimed, alarm rising within me. Ambrose gripped my shoulder firmly. "Do you want Freya out of your life, Emma? grandfather seems to adore her. What if Michael decides to claim the inheritance with her by his side? A woman with no connections, gaining all that power and wealth?" My anger boiled over. "I won't let her take it," I snarled. "Even if it means destroying her. I'll make her life a living hell. I'll do anything to stop her." My determination grew with every mention of Freya's name, fueling my rage. "I won't let her take it. Even if it means killing her. I will end her pathetic life. I'll do anything to make her life a hell" I hissed, my anger and determination intensifying. "Get me a piece of evidence, Emma. Leave the rest to me. I'll do the dirty work" he said, without a feeling of guilt or fear. I've never killed anyone, I only said that to prove how angry I was. But it seems Ambrose has been involved in dirty works, just as he called it. "I need you to act quickly," Ambrose said. "Michael's hosting an official event in a few months, and Freya will be by his side. I'll make sure she's humiliated and exposed, revealing her true nature to the world and Michael. He'll be forced to deny her, and everyone will be disappointed. You'll get Michael back, as he'll see you in a different light compared to Freya." I beamed with excitement, delighted at the thought. The thought of Michael apologizing and admitting his mistake in marrying Freya sent shivers down my spine. "I'm perfect for this task," I said, narrowing my eyes as I imagined Freya's downfall. "She'll regret ever crossing me." "Everywhere is tense, and Michael is furious. This isn't the right time," Ambrose said. "Freya left after seeing the picture of you and Michael kissing. Well played." I nodded, a silent affirmation that Freya was no match for me. "You should head home, Emma. From now on, report everything to me. I'll make sure to reunite you and Michael. My goal isn't to take him away from you, but to deal with that leech," Ambrose said, his tone dripping with disdain. I wondered why he harbored such anger towards Freya, but it was understandable. She wasn't exactly the most likable person. "Good night, Ambrose. I'll keep you informed of every detail," I said, watching as he nodded in response. I took a deep breath and wondered about the mysterious Ambrose. A wealthy and handsome man, yet clothed in secrets. Rumors swirled about his son, born out of wedlock to a mysterious woman ;a former employee, some said. No one had ever met her, and Ambrose's heart remained untouched by love. The thought surprised me, but I found myself hoping he'd find true love someday. I exhaled slowly, leaving the mansion behind. I expected to catch a glimpse of Michael at the entrance or in the hallway, but he was nowhere to be seen, and it pierced my heart. ***** Ambrose's POV I smiled, satisfied with gaining Emma's trust. She thought I'd spare Michael, but in reality, he was going down. Freya, on the other hand, would remain my lovesick, loyal puppet. I grabbed my keys, ready to leave the mansion. The game was over, and I was bored. As I started the engine, the smooth hum was soothing. I felt victorious, but my celebration was cut short. My phone rang, breaking the silence. My smile faded when I saw Julia's name flashed on the screen ; Waylen's nanny. I wondered what could be important enough for her to call. "Boss," Julia called, her voice trembling. My heart began to race as I felt a growing sense of unease. "Julia, spit it out or I'll strangle you," I snapped impatiently. "Boss... it's Waylen. He's... he's..." Julia's words trailed off. "What is it? What's happening?" I demanded, my hand shaking on the steering wheel. What had that little boy done now? Had he sneaked into the dark room he was always curious about? Julia's next words made my blood run cold: "He's been missing, boss." I slammed on the brakes, and the car screeched to a halt. "Find him, Julia. If you don't, I'll kill you. And..." I paused, my voice low and menacing, "don't even think about going to my room or anywhere off-limits. You won't like what you'll see."Chapter 14Freya's POV"Sweetheart, what's wrong? You look pale and sad. I was expecting your visit yesterday," my mom asked, her voice weak and shaky.Guilt and pain washed over me as I gazed at her frail form, confined to one position. My strong and intelligent mother, who had always been my rock, now lay vulnerable and helpless.I felt a crushing sense of guilt for keeping my marriage a secret. My mother would never have allowed me to make such a choice, not after everything we'd been through. She would have protected me from this mess.I knew I had to save her from the truth, at least for now. She didn't need to know."Mom..." I sobbed, overcome with emotion. My mother's condition wasn't improving. Her weakness was alarming."I'm sorry, Mom. I'm such a bad child. Sorry I couldn't visit," I whispered, wiping away tears as she placed her cold, wet hand on mine. I shuddered at her touch."Mother, are you okay? Aren't the doctors taking care of you?" I burst into tears again, but my m
Chapter 15Freya's POV"I asked a question, Freya," my mom pressed, her voice firm. ''Who is whose husband?"I finally tore my gaze away from Michael, my eyes drifting back to my mom's inquiring face."Mom...it's not what you think...Mom, it's a...," I stammered, struggling to find the right words.But before I could continue, Michael stepped in, his voice smooth and confident."Mrs. Rogers, I ought to have done an official introduction. I'm Freya's husband, Michael Smith," he announced, his eyes locked onto mine.I glared at him, feeling a surge of anger and rage."How dare you butt in?" I snapped, my eyes blazing with irritation. "You have no right to disrespect my mom in this manner."My mom's voice cut through the tension. "Freya, have you been lying to me?"I took a deep breath, feeling a pang of guilt. "I'm sorry, Mom. I just...I needed the money for your health. I had no choice." I whispered, my voice barely audible."You know I'll never keep secrets from you. Besides, our marr
Chapter 16Freya's POVI felt overwhelmed, so I soaked in the tub to calm down. But my emotions ran so deep that I didn't even hear my name being called. It wasn't until I sensed someone nearby that I snapped back to reality, finding myself on the floor.As I struggled to focus, I saw Michael's worried face and felt his hands shaking me. I almost smiled at his frantic efforts, but I was too caught up in my thoughts. I couldn't shake the pain of my mother's actions.I closed my eyes, letting the darkness wash over me. But I couldn't cry anymore. I'd already cried too much."Rogers!" Michael's voice echoed from behind the door, louder this time. I thought he'd already left. I didn't have time for him, not now. My mind was consumed by a single thought; storming into Ambrose's home and revealing myself to my son. I'd stop at nothing to reclaim him."Rogers!" Michael called out again, his voice insistent. I hesitated, then responded, trying to keep my emotions in check."Go away! I'm figur
Chapter 17Freya's POVI slowly lowered the phone, my eyes locked on Michael's piercing gaze. "Mr. Smith, you need to leave," I said wearily, struggling to maintain my composure.He wasn't supposed to know about the call. Ambrose's words still echoed in my mind, and I couldn't let Michael suspect anything.But Michael's expression remained unyielding. "No, you'll come with me to the mansion," he commanded, his voice firm and authoritative.My demeanor shifted, as anger bubbled inside me. How dare he dictate what I should do? I clenched my fist, a silent prayer whispering through my mind for Waylen's safe return."I refuse to abide by your terms, Mr. Smith," I said, my voice steady despite the turmoil brewing inside.Michael's eyes narrowed. "We had a deal, Rogers. And you will not default. I thought we understood each other." His words hung in the air, heavy with implication.I looked away, swallowing hard, as the weight of my situation threatened to crush me."Mr. Smith, I...I just c
Chapter 18Freya's povI couldn't shake off the feeling; I think I love Michael Smith. But this was wrong; it broke the first rule. I avoided his gaze, unable to face him after Ambrose's call interrupted our moment."Miss Rogers, won't you at least pick up the phone?" Michael asked, his voice surprisingly calm. He didn't seem embarrassed or shy, which only confused me. I thought love was supposed to make you vulnerable and self-conscious."And...we were wrong to have...done this," he said, his voice trailing off. His words cut deep, and I felt a pang of disappointment. Didn't he realize I wasn't angry about what happened? Didn't he see that I wanted more?"Yea, I'm sorry too," I said, meeting his gaze. Our eyes locked, and a sharp pain pierced my chest."Can you...leave me here for tonight?" I asked, my voice barely above a whisper.Michael exhaled a low chuckle, his finger brushing against his lip in a gesture that made him look endearingly sexy."You know, Rogers, it's fine if you d
hapter 20Michael's povI couldn't shake off the memory of that kiss with Freya. It was the same feeling I had expected to experience with Emma, but never did. I was perplexed by my reaction - I wasn't even attracted to Freya, yet her kiss had left me feeling lost.As I recalled her tears, I felt a pang in my chest. It was my first time seeing her so close. Her delicate features, long lashes, and brown irises had touched something within me. And those soft, moist lips... it was as if she had invited me in."Michael, you're so stupid," I muttered to myself, pushing the thought away. I stood up, grabbed my laptop, and focused on more pressing matters. Our company's annual event was approaching, and I hoped Grandfather would finally announce my official inheritance rights.I decided not to return to my mansion that night. I knew Alexis and Raymond would be lurking around, but I was confident I could handle them. After all, they wouldn't dare misbehave on my own property.However, my com
Chapter 20Freya's POVThe night dragged on, and I didn't get a wink of sleep. Being in Ambrose's mansion felt like residing in the devil's lair. I stepped out of my room, constantly glancing at the clock. It was already past 8. I needed to get to Michael's place as soon as possible.If he discovered I hadn't spent the night at the hospital, he might send his secretary to tail me. That was a complication I didn't need, especially with Waylen still missing. "Freya, you're awake?" Ambrose's familiar cold voice cut through the air.I turned to face him. "What are the cops saying?" I asked, frustration and confusion etched on my face.Ambrose's expression remained impassive. " Where was the last time you saw Waylen?" I pressed, impatience creeping into my voice.Ambrose's words dripped with sarcasm. "Are you nervous because you should be with your husband? Come on, Freya. Your husband will understand if you tell him you were searching for your missing child."I clenched my fists, tempted
Chapter 21Emma's POVI had just received a message from Alexis; Michael's mansion was empty, and it was time to keep a close eye on things. As the only one who could gather the information I needed from Michael, I had a crucial role to play. After all, I was Emma."Is he back yet?" I asked Alexis thirty minutes later, arriving at Micahel's abode."No, not yet," Alexis replied. "But why are you really doing this? You love Michael."I paused, momentarily silent. "That's exactly why I'm doing this. Because I love him.""Here, we forged a key to his room," Alexis said, handing me the key. "Be quick, Emma, and don't leave anything behind."I nodded, taking the key, and slipped into Michael's room. The familiar scent enveloped me, and I felt a rush of memories. Nothing had changed about him.My gaze fell upon my portrait, slightly cracked but still proudly displayed on the glass table. "Oh, Michael," I whispered, a mix of emotions swirling within me.This discovery only confirmed the lies
Chapter 21Emma's POVI had just received a message from Alexis; Michael's mansion was empty, and it was time to keep a close eye on things. As the only one who could gather the information I needed from Michael, I had a crucial role to play. After all, I was Emma."Is he back yet?" I asked Alexis thirty minutes later, arriving at Micahel's abode."No, not yet," Alexis replied. "But why are you really doing this? You love Michael."I paused, momentarily silent. "That's exactly why I'm doing this. Because I love him.""Here, we forged a key to his room," Alexis said, handing me the key. "Be quick, Emma, and don't leave anything behind."I nodded, taking the key, and slipped into Michael's room. The familiar scent enveloped me, and I felt a rush of memories. Nothing had changed about him.My gaze fell upon my portrait, slightly cracked but still proudly displayed on the glass table. "Oh, Michael," I whispered, a mix of emotions swirling within me.This discovery only confirmed the lies
Chapter 20Freya's POVThe night dragged on, and I didn't get a wink of sleep. Being in Ambrose's mansion felt like residing in the devil's lair. I stepped out of my room, constantly glancing at the clock. It was already past 8. I needed to get to Michael's place as soon as possible.If he discovered I hadn't spent the night at the hospital, he might send his secretary to tail me. That was a complication I didn't need, especially with Waylen still missing. "Freya, you're awake?" Ambrose's familiar cold voice cut through the air.I turned to face him. "What are the cops saying?" I asked, frustration and confusion etched on my face.Ambrose's expression remained impassive. " Where was the last time you saw Waylen?" I pressed, impatience creeping into my voice.Ambrose's words dripped with sarcasm. "Are you nervous because you should be with your husband? Come on, Freya. Your husband will understand if you tell him you were searching for your missing child."I clenched my fists, tempted
hapter 20Michael's povI couldn't shake off the memory of that kiss with Freya. It was the same feeling I had expected to experience with Emma, but never did. I was perplexed by my reaction - I wasn't even attracted to Freya, yet her kiss had left me feeling lost.As I recalled her tears, I felt a pang in my chest. It was my first time seeing her so close. Her delicate features, long lashes, and brown irises had touched something within me. And those soft, moist lips... it was as if she had invited me in."Michael, you're so stupid," I muttered to myself, pushing the thought away. I stood up, grabbed my laptop, and focused on more pressing matters. Our company's annual event was approaching, and I hoped Grandfather would finally announce my official inheritance rights.I decided not to return to my mansion that night. I knew Alexis and Raymond would be lurking around, but I was confident I could handle them. After all, they wouldn't dare misbehave on my own property.However, my com
Chapter 18Freya's povI couldn't shake off the feeling; I think I love Michael Smith. But this was wrong; it broke the first rule. I avoided his gaze, unable to face him after Ambrose's call interrupted our moment."Miss Rogers, won't you at least pick up the phone?" Michael asked, his voice surprisingly calm. He didn't seem embarrassed or shy, which only confused me. I thought love was supposed to make you vulnerable and self-conscious."And...we were wrong to have...done this," he said, his voice trailing off. His words cut deep, and I felt a pang of disappointment. Didn't he realize I wasn't angry about what happened? Didn't he see that I wanted more?"Yea, I'm sorry too," I said, meeting his gaze. Our eyes locked, and a sharp pain pierced my chest."Can you...leave me here for tonight?" I asked, my voice barely above a whisper.Michael exhaled a low chuckle, his finger brushing against his lip in a gesture that made him look endearingly sexy."You know, Rogers, it's fine if you d
Chapter 17Freya's POVI slowly lowered the phone, my eyes locked on Michael's piercing gaze. "Mr. Smith, you need to leave," I said wearily, struggling to maintain my composure.He wasn't supposed to know about the call. Ambrose's words still echoed in my mind, and I couldn't let Michael suspect anything.But Michael's expression remained unyielding. "No, you'll come with me to the mansion," he commanded, his voice firm and authoritative.My demeanor shifted, as anger bubbled inside me. How dare he dictate what I should do? I clenched my fist, a silent prayer whispering through my mind for Waylen's safe return."I refuse to abide by your terms, Mr. Smith," I said, my voice steady despite the turmoil brewing inside.Michael's eyes narrowed. "We had a deal, Rogers. And you will not default. I thought we understood each other." His words hung in the air, heavy with implication.I looked away, swallowing hard, as the weight of my situation threatened to crush me."Mr. Smith, I...I just c
Chapter 16Freya's POVI felt overwhelmed, so I soaked in the tub to calm down. But my emotions ran so deep that I didn't even hear my name being called. It wasn't until I sensed someone nearby that I snapped back to reality, finding myself on the floor.As I struggled to focus, I saw Michael's worried face and felt his hands shaking me. I almost smiled at his frantic efforts, but I was too caught up in my thoughts. I couldn't shake the pain of my mother's actions.I closed my eyes, letting the darkness wash over me. But I couldn't cry anymore. I'd already cried too much."Rogers!" Michael's voice echoed from behind the door, louder this time. I thought he'd already left. I didn't have time for him, not now. My mind was consumed by a single thought; storming into Ambrose's home and revealing myself to my son. I'd stop at nothing to reclaim him."Rogers!" Michael called out again, his voice insistent. I hesitated, then responded, trying to keep my emotions in check."Go away! I'm figur
Chapter 15Freya's POV"I asked a question, Freya," my mom pressed, her voice firm. ''Who is whose husband?"I finally tore my gaze away from Michael, my eyes drifting back to my mom's inquiring face."Mom...it's not what you think...Mom, it's a...," I stammered, struggling to find the right words.But before I could continue, Michael stepped in, his voice smooth and confident."Mrs. Rogers, I ought to have done an official introduction. I'm Freya's husband, Michael Smith," he announced, his eyes locked onto mine.I glared at him, feeling a surge of anger and rage."How dare you butt in?" I snapped, my eyes blazing with irritation. "You have no right to disrespect my mom in this manner."My mom's voice cut through the tension. "Freya, have you been lying to me?"I took a deep breath, feeling a pang of guilt. "I'm sorry, Mom. I just...I needed the money for your health. I had no choice." I whispered, my voice barely audible."You know I'll never keep secrets from you. Besides, our marr
Chapter 14Freya's POV"Sweetheart, what's wrong? You look pale and sad. I was expecting your visit yesterday," my mom asked, her voice weak and shaky.Guilt and pain washed over me as I gazed at her frail form, confined to one position. My strong and intelligent mother, who had always been my rock, now lay vulnerable and helpless.I felt a crushing sense of guilt for keeping my marriage a secret. My mother would never have allowed me to make such a choice, not after everything we'd been through. She would have protected me from this mess.I knew I had to save her from the truth, at least for now. She didn't need to know."Mom..." I sobbed, overcome with emotion. My mother's condition wasn't improving. Her weakness was alarming."I'm sorry, Mom. I'm such a bad child. Sorry I couldn't visit," I whispered, wiping away tears as she placed her cold, wet hand on mine. I shuddered at her touch."Mother, are you okay? Aren't the doctors taking care of you?" I burst into tears again, but my m
Chapter 13Emma's POVI stood there, my fist clenched in anger and pain, as I remembered Michael's passionate declaration of love for that woman. It hurt, especially after our kiss just moments before ; a kiss that came after five years of waiting. He hadn't even hugged me, and now he was telling Ambrose how much he loved Freya, but his eyes told a different story."I want to make her pay," I whispered, my voice trembling with rage. "I want to crush her and make her cry. I want to make her feel miserable." A warm hand on my back interrupted my venomous thoughts, and for a moment, I wished it was Michael, declaring his love for me. But the hand belonged to Ambrose, his eyes filled with a mix of pity and anger as he gazed at me. "Ambrose..." I choked, my voice cracking as tears streamed down my face."I love him," I whispered, my voice trembling. "I love Michael... so much. Why is he defending his marriage to Freya?" I asked, desperately. "You told me it was all a sham, didn't you?" I