Alina's Pov “How are you feeling now?” Theodore asked, joining Asher and me at the breakfast table. It was my fourth day of the cycle, so the pain had thankfully subsided. After the first agonizing day, the weekend had arrived just in time to save my sanity. I dreaded to think how cranky I would have been if I’d had to work through it.Asher was perched on my lap, eagerly accepting bites of fruit I fed him. “I'm alright,” I replied, trying to sound as normal as possible.Theodore didn’t respond immediately, prompting me to look up and face him. His intense gaze, fixed on me and Asher, made my stomach flutter with unease. There was a strange mix of desperation and regret in his eyes. He seemed lost in his thoughts, watching the way I fed Asher. When he realized I was observing him, he quickly cleared his throat and coughed awkwardly.“That's good to hear,” he finally said.“Morning, Daddy!” Asher chirped, his mouth full of a large chunk of apple.“Morning, buddy. Did you sleep well la
Theodore’s PovI stood in the middle of the grand hall, surveying the scene with a mixture of pride and trepidation. The entire space was transformed into a Superman-themed wonderland. Red, blue, and yellow decorations filled the room. Life-sized cutouts of Superman stood sentinel at the entrance, and banners with Asher's name intertwined with the iconic Superman logo hung from the ceiling. I couldn't help but feel a pang of anxiety. This was the first time I had planned anything significant for Asher, and it had to be perfect. It needed to be more than just a birthday party; it had to be a celebration worthy of my son.I had hired the best event planners in town to ensure every detail was flawless. They'd outdone themselves, creating an immersive experience that even an adult would find impressive. There was a station for face painting, a bounce house, and even a mini obstacle course that resembled a superhero training ground. Tables were adorned with Superman-themed plates, cups, an
Theodore's Pov From across the hall, I saw Elliot approach Alina with that familiar, easy grin plastered on his face. He extended a hand to her, and she hesitated for a moment before accepting. My stomach churned as I watched them step onto the dance floor. The band struck up a jolly tune, and they began to move together, their steps light and carefree. Asher was busy playing nearby, completely oblivious to the tension building within me.I tried to focus on Mr. Robinson's words, nodding and responding appropriately, but my attention was elsewhere. Alina was laughing now, her head thrown back in that way that always made my heart skip a beat. Elliot spun her around, his hand resting on her waist, and I felt a surge of jealousy so strong it almost made me see red.The music shifted, the lively tempo giving way to a slower, more intimate melody. Couples drifted onto the dance floor, swaying in each other's arms. I watched as Elliot pulled Alina closer, their bodies moving in sync. It w
Alina's Pov I could still feel the electricity from our dance as I stood there, trying to steady my breath. Theodore's words, his touch, the intensity of our connection—it all lingered in the air around me. But as much as I was caught up in the emotions swirling between us, there was someone else who needed my attention.“Yeah! We should…” my eyes traveled between Thea and Theodore before I continued. “We should cut the cake now.” I was sure my cheeks were completely red by now, my stomach was jittery and I was feeling hot after that little dance Theodore had with me. Man, did he make me feel things. Too many things all at once. I took a few deep breaths before calling out for Asher. I called out, "Asher! Sweetie, come here!"Almost immediately, I heard the sound of his little feet padding across the floor. Asher came running, his Superman cape flapping behind him, a wide grin plastered on his face. He was the picture of joy and innocence, his excitement evident."Mommy!" he exclai
Author's Pov Alina sat cross-legged on her bed, the soft glow of the lamp casting a warm light over the photo album spread out before her. She traced a finger over the images of Asher, her heart swelling with a mixture of pride and sorrow. How could it be that four years had flown by so quickly? It felt like just yesterday that she and Thea had gone for that first ultrasound, the tiny flicker of a heartbeat promising so much joy and change. Her eyes lingered on a photo of Asher as a baby, his cherubic face alight with laughter as he played on a picnic blanket. She remembered that day vividly, the scent of fresh grass, Thea’s laughter echoing through the park, and the sheer happiness that had enveloped her. But now, her baby was growing up, transforming into the little gentleman she had always hoped he would be. A tear slipped down her cheek as she marveled at the swift passage of time, feeling a pang of sadness at how fleeting those early years had been.Lost in her reverie, she did
Alina's Pov I was immersed in the sea of reports scattered across my desk, the muted hum of my computer a familiar background noise. The overhead lights cast a soft glow, accentuating the neat rows of bookshelves lining the walls of my office cabin. My coffee, long since gone cold, sat forgotten at the edge of my desk. Just another typical day of juggling deadlines and expectations.A soft knock at the door pulled me out of my reverie. I glanced up to see Jacob, one of the office assistants, standing in the doorway, his face slightly flushed from hurrying around.“Miss Stacy, someone’s here to see you,” he said, his tone polite but with an undercurrent of urgency.I arched an eyebrow, curiosity piqued. “Who is it?”“Someone named Elliot,” Jacob replied, glancing at the small notepad in his hand as if to confirm the name. “He’s waiting for you in the lobby.”Elliot? What could possibly bring him here, out of the blue? I felt a mix of surprise and a flutter of excitement. It had been s
Theodore's PovI couldn't fucking take it anymore. There was no way I could let that bastard put his claim on Alina while I just stand and do nothing. So I knew I had to tear the contract. The contract never meant anything in the first place. It was just a way to keep her bound to me. And now that I could finally see her feelings, how she was getting comfortable around me and not altogether opposed to the idea of living with me or even just breathing the same air as I was breathing, I knew just a few more punches and the wall would collapse. As for the fucking Elliot, I think I'll have to meet him on person and show him his place. But for now, I concentrated on kissing the precious woman who tasted like sweet candy. She melted in my hold as I sucked on her soft rosy lips. And they way she responded back had me hardening in seconds. This girl could send me to hell and I would go there gladly. That's the hold she had on me. If only she knew. I pushed into her, caging her against the do
Theodore's Pov The moment I stepped out of the elevator, my lips latched onto Alina in a passionate kiss. She wasted no time in kissing me back with the same eagerness. “Jump!” I hoarsed against her lips after I was sure the penthouse was empty. Anders had taken Asher out to the park as per my wish. Which means I had quite some time alone with my woman to cherish her. Alina complied to my command, hopping up my hands wasted no time in securing her my hold, my palms holding her soft butt. I gave it a harsh squeeze, earning a moan from her sinful lips. My crotch was standing erect and she was making it so much more painful with those seductive hip movements against it. If this continues any longer, I could guarantee I would pass out. But I'd pass out as a happy man. Ecstatic even. I crossed the distance to my room and kicked the door open with a loud thud. Alina's perfect hands worked her way on my tie before she pulled it off of me in a jaste and tossed it somewhere in the room. Nex
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,