Alina
“How's your mother?” I started the conversation as Martha and I were having lunch.
“She is doing better, Miss Alina. Thank you for asking.” I nodded. I was about to continue the conversation when I heard footsteps in the house. Who was here at this time? My question was answered when Theodore appeared in the kitchen’s doorway, followed by Anders holding a bag. What was he doing here so early?
Like always, he had his hands tucked in his dresspants and the same hard, stoic expression plastered on his face. He looked at me before his eyes fell on Martha.
“Why wasn't I informed of you leaving before work hours?” I heard Theodore's hard voice, making Martha tremble and look down.
“I did inform before leaving, Mr Maxwell,” she said timidly, looking at her feet. This obnoxious man was scaring her for no reason when I clearly told him that it was a family emergency.
“Yeah? Who exactly?” He took a step forth to intimidate her further. Was he seriously doing this? For what reason?
“Miss Alina.”
“I don't remember where in your job description it was written that you were supposed to report to Miss Alina about your absence. If I'm not wrong, the only person that you are supposed to report to was either me, or Anders.” So this is what it was about. He was offended at Martha for giving me more importance than him? Is he even serious? How was the poor woman supposed to inform him when he came so freaking late and his butler always stuck to him like his shadow? I mean, it's like he is his secretary or a personal assistant more than a butler. And at that moment, she was just freaked out to get the news of her mother being admitted to the hospital. She was panicking and so I allowed her to leave. Where is his basic humanity?
“I'm sorry Mr. Maxwell. It won't happen again,” she apologized.
“It better not. Leave,” she immediately scurried her way out of the kitchen before Theodore finally looked at me. His eyes slowly trailed from my head to toe, taking their own time. It was then I realized what I was wearing. A tank top and shorts. Fucking amazing!
How was I supposed to know he would be back early? I had just decided to come down for lunch and then spend the rest of the time back in my room like I always do. It wasn't like I was going to see anyone else but Martha.
He took the bags from Anders, and stretched his arm in front of me.
“Get ready, we have to attend a party,” it wouldn't kill him to be polite. Why does he always have to order?
“What party?” I for a moment thought he would just ignore my question and walk out of the kitchen. But I was surprised to hear his next words.
“It's a formal party for one of my important business associates. You are required to accompany me. You have exactly an hour. Don't be late.” That was all before he left the bag on the table, and walked out. I watched in confusion as Anders gave me a sympathetic smile, before following him.
Oh well, did I have a choice?
**************
It took me five minutes less to one hour before I was finally done with my makeup and shimmying into the dress.Why was this man always hot on his heels, never taking a rest? And even if he didn't, then was there a need to drag me to his business partner's parties? Couldn't he just deal with them himself? I just wanted to return to writing my book. But guess I'll have to postpone it for now.
As I stood before the full-length mirror, I couldn't help but feel amazed at the sight. The elegant silhouette of the black dress embraced my curves with a subtle grace. The fabric cascaded down to the floor, whispering softly with each step. The dress boasted a daring slit, revealing just enough to tease, adding a touch of allure to the ensemble. The neckline, a modest plunge, framed my collarbones delicately, hinting at a quiet confidence that lingered beneath the surface. I took a moment to assess myself in the reflection, and a satisfied smile played upon my lips. The dress, with its timeless allure, draped seamlessly. I ran my fingers lightly over the smooth fabric, marveling at the subtle design that had brought this piece to life. Finally, feeling like my look was complete, I decided to join Theodore.
"Fucking finally," I heard Theodore mumble under his breath as he cut the call that I assume he had been on for some time now. I had just arrived in the living room and was facing his back currently since he was facing the door while stuck in a short argument with someone on the phone. He felt my presence behind him and finally decided to turn around.
"Fucking time you finally show up! Do you realize-" he looked up from his to finally take in my appearance. I waited for him to continue his scolding, but I was surprised when nothing came out of his mouth. Instead, his eyes remained fixed on my face, before they trailed down, agonizingly slowly, to the rest of my body. First, my upper body, then my waist, down to my feet. He visibly gulped and I waited for some kind of insult to come from his mouth, knowing the kind of obnoxious personality he has, but once again, there was nothing. Instead, he just stood there for a few seconds before abruptly turning around to leave.
"Let's go," he gritted before marching out.
"What was that?" I mumbled to myself. "That man really is a whole new level of weird," I shook my head before Ander's came to get me.
"Mr. Maxwell is waiting for you in the car, Miss Alina," I nodded before following his lead.
Alina Silence enveloped us as I got into the luxurious Limousine. I swear, this guy was just so extra. We would have reached just fine in any small car to our venue. But now that I think about it, he wouldn't have a normal Toyota standing in his garage anyway. I had an idea it would be full of BMWs, Audis, Ferraris and Lambos. Is there any brand I'm missing? If yes, then add it to the list. I heaved a sigh, looking out of the window as the driver drove in silence. I felt Theodore’s gaze pinning me at intervals, since he was sitting beside me on the same seat, just with a little gap. But did I look back at him to let him know I was aware? No. I don't want to make things more awkward than they already are. Which still reminds me of my unanswered question. Why the heck did I have to go with him anyway? Guess I'll never know. The drive ended and I had no clue of my surroundings, of where we were currently. I was about to open the door, when I felt a hand grabbing my wrist and stoppi
Alina My cheeks were hurting from all the smiling I had done for the night and decided to take a break. Gosh, this woman could hardly get tired, and unfortunately for Thoedore's sake, I had to put up with her. I had finally learned that the party was to acknowledge their 30th wedding anniversary, so I congratulated her. She introduced me to a number of her friends, including the wives of some important business men and influential people I gave no two shits about. Finally, she introduced me to her son, Nathan. So that was the person Mr.Summers had mentioned earlier. He was one fine man with an alluring personality, but by the way he was smirking all the time, and trying to flirt with me, even after knowing I was a freaking married woman, there was no doubt he was a playboy. Soft music started paying and the irritating man opened his mouth to speak. “Care to have this dance?” Fuck. I really wished Mrs. Summers had not left me alone with him! “No actually. I can't really dance. A
Theodore This freaking woman! First she had to look like an enchantress in that dress, capturing every single man's attention in the hall in no time. And then she has the fucking audacity to go to a corner with my biggest enemy? Yes she looked fucking gorgeous in the gown! So much that I momentarily forgot to even respond or remember that I was angry at her at the time of leaving. She left me breathless! But that didn't mean I would let her ruin my plans for the night. I needed this deal with Mr.Summers. It was my final step to beat Nathan in his own fucking games. And all I needed was for my wife to not mess it up. It wasn't that I was jealous of the attention other men were giving. It was for the sake of my reputation! The media loves to talk and to create scandals for no reason. I couldn't bear to find one; my wife and my biggest rival. It would be a mess. Why the hell did she have to leave the hall all alone and come to this secluded area in the first place? If not Nathan, t
Alina I knew Theodore was an angry bull. But I didn't realize he would go to this extent. It was childish, but still I couldn't just stand and stare knowing his hand was bleeding. It was freaking dripping with blood. His knuckles were completely busted. I'm surprised he didn't even flinch as I applied the antiseptic to his skin. Instead, all this while, I just felt his hot gaze, pinning holes in my head. That had my stomach churning in nervousness. Knowing that you are being watched, every move you make is being thoroughly observed would send anybody's nerves on wrack. Especially if it included standing close to a raging bull like Theodore Maxwell. This man had serious anger issues. By now, I'm pretty sure he was deprived of mother's care and attention. Not to be judgemental or anything, but that's just my way of coping with people who are walking volcanoes. Yep, mommy surely didn't love him enough to turn him into a good boy. That's why his pants are always on fire. I suppressed a g
Theodore“What the fuck is this? Do you have eyes or buttons? Who filled out these quotations? And this is how you proofread any work before handing it over to me?” Everything was a disaster! Don't know for what reason, I was more agitated than I had ever been. I was just barking orders, and my assistant was hot on his toes going back and forth with a number of documents I solved at him. “Get this shit fixed now!” “Yes Mr. Maxwell,” he said before running out of the office. Why the fuck was I feeling so hot? Taking off my coat, I tossed it on the couch before loosening my tie. Picking up the telephone, I dialed my assistant’s extension yet again. “Get me a coffee on your way back,” I didn't wait for him to respond back before harshly slamming it back. I squeezed my eyes shut, rubbing my forehead to release some tension. But did it help? Absolutely not. A few minutes later, I heard a knock on the door and told the person to come in, knowing it would be my assistant. “Here's your co
Alina“He's got a pretty high fever after not giving his body a rest for days. Not the first time this has happened. I suggest you kindly take care of his meals and try to get him to eat at least three times a day. He's been skipping meals a lot. Moreover, see that he takes proper rest and sleep. It would be good if Mr. Maxwell works from home for the next few days and tries not to strain himself too much,” I kept nodding at the doctor as Anders stood taking notes. “These are the medicines he should take for the next 48 hours, and he'll be better.” “Thank you Dr. Henry,” I nodded once again. “Anders, please get Dr. Henry dropped at his home safely, and get these medicines on the way back.” I handed him the prescription paper. “Of course, Miss Alina,” he nodded before moving out. Sighing, I turned to face the sleeping figure of Theodore. He looked so calm and peaceful. Exactly the opposite of what he is in real life; a hurricane. Should I wake him up now? I looked at the soup I had
Alina “Can you help me?” “With what?” This time I turned around with a frowning face?” “To change?” I was sure I turned the shade of a cherry. My eyes widened at his response. He did not just say that, did he? “What?” “I mean, can you get my clothes from the wardrobe? I really don't feel well. You know, dizzy and lethargic,” right, calm down, Alina. Get your mind out of the gutter! He was just asking for help to get his clothes. Not actually help him change. “Sure,” I nodded. “Do you want anything specific?” “Anything comfortable would do. When you walk into the wardrobe, the left side is dedicated to all the sweats and t-shirts.” “Right,” I quickly moved to the sliding wardrobe and was amazed at how organized it was. I slid the door of the first cupboard to the left, making my cheeks burn instantly at the sight of his boxers. Oops, definitely not this one. Sliding the door open to the next one, I sighed in relief when I saw some trousers and shirts. I don't know why
TheodoreThat bastard did it again. He will never learn, will he? The very next morning, I kicked open his office door and entered like I owned it. I did l, in fact, own it. There was no doubt about it. He stood up from his desk after acknowledging my presence. “Ah, Theodore. What a surp-”“-It’s Mr. Maxwell for you!” My voice laced with venom, made him gulp at my words. “Haha, come on now. There should be no formalities now that you are my son-in-law. You didn't have to come all the way here. You should have called me instead.” He said awkwardly, filling in the silence. He moved out of his desk and approached me. “Come, have a seat. We can talk about whatever you want,” he pointed at the couch in his office. “Your friend is also welcome, don't worry,” he offered Daniel, who was standing in the doorway, looking bored at the whole scene. I smirked at him. He really wasn't doing that, was he? “Sure, let's talk.” I brushed past him, bumping into his shoulder purposely before taking lo
Alina's Pov 2 years later “Are you crazy?” Thea yells barging into my office. “I can't believe you are doing this today out of all days!” I ignored her, continuing to type furiously on my laptop. I got used to her barging into the publishing house every second day and complaining about something or the other. It's what made her Thea. Yes I had taken over the publishing house and now became a successful Author and owner of this business. Theodore was utterly proud of all the hard work and my achievements and finally after a year, I got my reward of becoming the bestseller. I had only ever imagined it in my dreams, so living it felt surreal. “Bruh! We are going to be late for the signing!” Thea shut my laptop, making me sigh. Why did I hire her as my manager once again? Yeah, to keep me on track. And she was just doing her job, I reminded myself and killed the urge to slap her. She loved her job by the way. She said it was thrilling. “I was in the middle of a very important sc
Alina's Pov I did it. I signed the last contract. Was it selfish of me to do that? Maybe. So I regret it? No. Because I wasn't going to take another chance in my life because at first, it was just me. But now, my son is also involved. No one in the world would I allow anyone to be unjust to him. So I did it for his sake. Call me a gold digger or whatever, but I had to protect my son's future before anything. As I stood in the kitchen, absently stirring my coffee, the events of last night replayed in my mind with startling clarity. Theodore and I had been lying on the cool garden grass, the stars glittering like diamonds above us. It was one of those rare, serene moments where the world seemed to pause just for us.I remember the hesitation in Theodore's voice as he turned to me, his eyes reflecting the night sky. "Alina," he began slowly, "I don't want you to feel pressured into answering this, but I've been wondering... If I hadn't done the things I did in the past, do you think yo
Theodore's PovI was buried in paperwork, the soft hum of my office providing a soothing backdrop as I reviewed a critical document. The numbers were lining up, and for once, it seemed like the day might end without any surprises. Just as I was about to finish, my phone rang, jolting me from my concentration.I glanced at the screen. It was Daniel. Strange, I thought, answering the call. "Hey, Daniel. What's up?""Where are you!?" Daniel’s voice was urgent, almost frantic."I'm at the office. Why?" I responded, my confusion growing."And Alina? Where is she? And Asher?" "They're supposed to be at home. Why? What's wrong?" "Nathan has gotten bail! Last according to my sources, he's going towards your penthouse!" Daniel's words sent a chill down my spine. I didn't waste a second. Slamming the phone down, I bolted from my office, my heart pounding in my chest. The drive to the penthouse was a blur. All I could think about was getting to Alina and Asher before Nathan did.As I neared t
Alina’s PovThe sun was shining brilliantly, casting a golden hue over the park as I spread out the picnic blanket. Asher was already dashing off to join the other kids, his laughter filling the air. It was one of those perfect days that made you forget all your troubles, even if just for a moment.I unpacked the picnic basket, laying out sandwiches, fruits, and snacks. I watched Asher play, a smile tugging at my lips. Life had changed so much in the span of a few days. From grappling with the loss of my estranged father to deciding to take over the publishing house, it felt like I was finally stepping into my own.Theodore had been my rock through it all. His support, his unwavering belief in me, had given me the strength to face everything. And now, here I was, planning to start a new chapter, determined to make the most of the opportunities before me."Mommy, look!" Asher called out, holding up a flower he'd picked."It's beautiful, sweetie," I called back, waving at him.As the af
Alina's Pov As I opened the letter, I watched carefully as my heart was pounding in my chest. I unfold the paper with trembling hands and began to read. The silence in the car feeling heavy, each second stretching out as my eyes take in what was written. My Dearest Alina,If you are reading this, then my time has come, and I have departed from this world. There are no words that can truly express the remorse I feel for the pain and suffering I caused you. I know I was never the father you deserved. I was selfish, cruel, and neglectful, and I let my ambitions and grudges take precedence over my duties to you as a parent.Signing you away to Theodore was the most disgraceful thing I ever did. I justified it as a business decision, but deep down, I knew it was wrong. It was not until I was imprisoned that I began to see the full extent of my failures and the hurt I had inflicted on you. I asked you to visit, hoping to have the chance to make amends, to explain myself, and to beg for
Alina's Pov "How... when?"Theodore takes a step closer, his expression softening as he reaches for my hand again. "Earlier today," he says gently. "I'm so sorry, Alina."I feel a strange numbness wash over me, a mix of shock and disbelief. "I... I don't know what to say," I stammer, my voice breaking."It's okay," Theodore murmurs, pulling me into a comforting embrace. "Take your time."I cling to him, the weight of the news pressing down on me. The room fades into the background as I try to process the reality of my father's death, feeling Theodore's steady presence grounding me in the midst of my turmoil.I stand there, wrapped in Theodore's embrace, but all I feel is a strange, unsettling numbness. No sadness, no remorse, just a void where my emotions should be. The news echoes in my mind, but it feels distant, as if it's happening to someone else.I pull back slightly, looking up at Theodore. "I don't... I don't feel anything," I confess, my voice barely above a whisper. "I tho
Alina's PovAs I opened the door to the penthouse, Thea stood there with a huge grin, her arms loaded with bags of snacks and a couple of DVDs. It had been way too long since we'd had one of our legendary sleepovers."Thea! You made it!" I exclaimed, giving her a tight hug."Of course I did! Wouldn't miss it for the world," she replied, squeezing me back. "Where's my little man?""Asher! Aunt Thea's here!" I called out.Within seconds, a blur of curly hair and infectious energy came barreling towards us. Asher threw himself into Thea's arms, giggling wildly as she lifted him off the ground."I've missed you so much, buddy!" Thea said, spinning him around. Asher squealed with delight, his laughter filling the room."We've missed you too," I said softly, watching them with a smile.After settling in and catching up a bit, we gathered on the couch with a mountain of popcorn between us. Asher sat between Thea and me, his eyes wide with excitement as he looked at the stack of movies on the
Alina's Pov Cooking with Asher was always a delightful, messy adventure. This morning, he had insisted on helping me make pasta. At just four years old, he had a fiery determination and an eagerness to be involved in whatever I was doing. How could I say no to his bright eyes and infectious enthusiasm?“Okay, sweetheart, you can help Mommy,” I said, lifting him up to sit on the kitchen counter. His eyes sparkled with joy, and he clapped his tiny hands in excitement."Yay! I help Mama," he declared proudly.I set the ingredients out on the counter: a packet of pasta, a variety of spices, fresh tomatoes, garlic, and onions. Asher leaned forward, eyes wide, surveying the array of items before him. He reached for the spice jars, his small hands struggling a bit with the lids.“Let me help you with that, love,” I said, gently twisting off the cap of the oregano for him. “This is oregano. Smell it. Isn’t it wonderful?”Asher took a big whiff and scrunched up his nose, making a face that m
Alina's Pov Without breaking the kiss and having his hand wrapped around me, he effortlessly walked to the other side of the decoration and it was only then I noticed a beautiful pastel tent decorated with fairy lights waiting for us. “What are you—” my words were silenced as his lips captured mine in a fervent kiss. The world around us disappeared. His hands slid up my sides, pulling me closer as I deepened the kiss, our tongues tangling in a dance of raw need. My soft lips yielded to his, and I clutched his shoulders, pulling him even closer. The intensity of the moment consumed us, our breaths mingling, my gasps fueling his desire. He cupped my face with one hand, his thumb brushing against my cheek as I tilted my head, exploring his mouth with a hunger I couldn’t contain. My fingers threaded through his hair, tugging gently. Every touch, every caress was electric, igniting a fire that burned hotter with each passing second. I could feel my heart pounding against his chest,