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Chapter 28 – Three words
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2024-10-29 19:42:56She groaned, sure that her family would’ve seen the same articles. Well, it’s not as if it was a secret to them. Her dad would be the one getting a hard time. It’s his fault anyway. Dragging her into an agreement without getting her consent. Serves him right.
“It’s not that hard to figure out the truth. Their speculations were mostly on point, but there is some damage there. We can just let it settle down on its own. It’s more important that I get your dad’s approval and help him if he would let me.”
Aww… she felt soft inside at his concern for her stubborn and difficult dad.
“You’d do that?”
“Anything to let him accept me.” He returned the phone to Carl and pressed a kiss on Alena’s lips.
Carl’s not sure if he should be happy or if he should be grossed out. A quick kiss is fine. No need to drag it out in front of young eyes.
Alena thought the sa
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Maybe he should’ve done it differently. She’s still young, after all. She probably wanted a proper proposal. He grimaced. He should’ve made preparations before blurting that out. Still, he simply wanted to create an opening for Drew’s question. He’s sure Alena would agree.He stood up and approached her. He took her into his arms.“Don’t worry. I’ll give you a proper proposal. I just wanted to make my intentions clear. You’ve been hearing the boys asking about a marriage or a wedding. You shouldn’t feel embarrassed when they do. They already know that’s where this is going.”Alena took a deep breath at his explanation. His words are too sweet. He’s gonna give her a proper proposal? She doesn’t need one! She’s fine with this kind of proposal.She chuckled before hugging him, too. “I’m just happy. You made me very excited. I look forward to our future toget
Try Harder Chapter 30 – Grandparents?
Christan lazily watched her. Alena thought she’d never see him this way.She lightly shook her head. She can’t be tempted by him again.Alice answered on the third ring.“Girl, what’s up? Are you at Chirstan’s?”Alena sighed. “Yeah, I am. What’s going on at home? How’s dad? Is he angry?”Alice snorted, “Well, what do you expect? He still is. If you’re planning to come home, do it tomorrow or the next day. He’s still busy dealing with the Woods. It’s shameful for them, to be turned down immediately like that. But of course, not your fault, dear. The stubborn man just couldn’t accept he’s wrong.”“Thanks. What about mom?”“Oh, she’s fine. We’re both proud of you. She’s helping dad deal with the situation.”Alena sighed in relief, before glancing at Christan. She couldn’t help but lo
Try Harder Chapter 31 – Preciously
On their way, Alice called Alena.“Yes? Is there a problem?”Alice snorted on the other line. “Nervous, are you? I just called to let you know that things will probably be civil. Mom’s taking charge. They had a shouting match earlier and you know who won. The most dad can do is threw glares at your man, contradict whatever he says, complain about whatever… but mom would be there to tame him, so. Don’t worry. Is your man nervous, too?”At her sister’s question, Alena looked at Christan. He briefly glanced at her when he noticed her stare.“Probably.” She answered Alice before actually asking Christan.“A little.” He admitted, then he reached for her hand.“Alice said mom’s making sure dad doesn’t go overboard. Don’t worry.”“Alright, lovebirds, ignore me. See you in a few.”“Yeah, see you. We’ll be there
Try Harder Chapter 32 – Grandsons
“Should we leave the two of them together? Come on, girls. Let’s cook some food in the kitchen.” Their mom suggested and stood to go. Alice quickly followed with a backward wink at her sister.Alena could only turn to Christan. “Will you be alright?”“Yeah. Go on. The boys will be here in an hour.” He should at least talk to her dad man to man, before the others come.“Let’s go to my study.” Mr. Reed stated when the ladies have left. Christan followed him.The conversation that took place was indeed sensitive. Christan didn’t want to lie when he was directly asked if he has already touched the man’s daughter. Alena might have downplayed her dad’s conservativeness. He was furious upon confirming that they have already been intimate.“You do plan to take responsibility, aren’t you? Or are you just playing with my daughter?”Christan sighed. “I
Try Harder Chapter 33 – Mom’s gifts
Drew joined the ladies in the kitchen, while Carl sat in the living room with the men. Mr. Reed prefers his quiet and serious personality over the other one. The boy seems reliable. They chatted about school and what the boy wants to be when he’s older.Carl looked at his dad. “I’m not sure if I’ll be inheriting anything, but I’d like to start my own company. I don’t like liquors much.”His statement made Christan frown. This kid…“You’re still a minor. You can’t drink yet. How do you know you won’t like it later?” He posed the question.Mr. Reed watched the exchange. Thankfully for him, Alice was willing to take over his company. His other daughters didn’t like his business, though didn’t venture very far.“Mom said we should be careful with it. It’s good that you have high tolerance, but we might not be able to develop that. The process could be
Try Harder Chapter 34 – Wedding preparation
Who knew the boys would be frequent visitors at the Reeds after that day?Christan’s parents like travelling so they’re usually away. The children like being around family and friends, so they liked spending time with them. Since Christan and Alena were busy with wedding preparations, the boys asked their new grandparents if they could visit them often.Her parents don’t have a problem with it. Her dad would soon retire, and their mom has always been a housewife and a support to their dad. Alice was slowly taking over their dad’s business.Though they haven’t married yet, Alena has already moved in with Christan. This didn’t sit well with her father, but he didn’t exactly oppose it.“I think it would’ve been better to simply hire an event coordinator to deal with everything. This is taking too much of our time. We’re both busy enough.” She finally complained at one point.Christan ki
Try Harder Chapter 35 – Trouble
Things seem to be going really well, that none of them expected trouble when it came.The security Christan set up was not as good as he hoped it to be.“Damn it.” He can only curse when he received the news that Alena has been kidnapped. Thankfully, the kids were fine. Maybe he should have gone with them today. It’s too late to think that. He regrets it now.He quickly left his office and met his kids at home. The head of the security team was apologizing and assured him that they’re already tracking the ones behind it.His sons were apologetic as well. In a way, they feel responsible. They were with her and yet they weren’t able to protect her. Or maybe be with her. She must be scared being taken alone.Christan could feel his head aching already. With a heavy heart, he called her parents to let them know what’s going on. Understandably, Mr. Reed was exploding with anger. Mrs. Reed is worried and informed the r
Try Harder Chapter 36 – Family
Dylan and Andrea were excited about the vacation. Lee brought them to her house before going to Christan’s place. Oliver was too tired from driving that he dropped on the bed as soon as they arrived. She told Dylan to watch his daddy and sister. They were tired, too, so they stayed with their daddy in bed.As for her, she was fairly rested. She slept on the way and conserved her energy.The sight that greeted her was grim. She already heard that they didn’t receive any call about her kidnapping. It looked like no one slept well during the night. Christan’s children stayed with them no matter how many times the elders told them to rest in their rooms. Mrs. Reed managed to make them all eat something. Alexis still prioritized her unborn baby. She ate well and slept well, despite her own worries.Alexander welcomed Lee with a hug. She politely greeted the Reeds before walking up to Christan.He stood up to give her a hug and asked about Oli
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Actually, it’s not the last gift from their mom. Tanya prepared letters for her boys for when they reach legal age. Her instructions were to give them to their dad and new mom a year before they reach that milestone. The new couple can decide what to do with them afterwards. At the hospital, they only waited for a short while before the doctor received them. Was asked fairly standard questions and then they were directed to do the test. After waiting some more, they finally heard the results. “Congratulations. It seems you’re pregnant for six weeks now.” The doctor smiled sweetly at them, before handing over the document. “Six weeks?” Christan wanted to confirm. She’s already pregnant when she was kidnapped? His expression darkened. Despite Lee’s news last night, he started getting worried again. As for Alena, she’s grinning wildly. It’s truly a happy news, but when she turned to look at her husband, she’s puzzled by his reaction.
Try Harder Chapter 44 – Resolution
“They already have her. Found her hiding place. I’m surprised she didn’t leave the country. But she’s locked up now. It’s a good gift on your wedding day, right? The bureau sends their congratulations and best wishes.” She winked at both of them.Alena smiled widely as she turned to Christan and jumped on him. He’s relieved, too, and hugged her back.“That means we’re done here, right?” Oliver really wanted to lock her up.Christan snorted, “Do you dislike being here? You haven’t been here for a month.”“That’s enough time already. We’re going back soon.”“You guys might want to visit us sometime in the countryside. Cara would love to meet you.” Lee said this to Alena.“I would love that.” She replied, feeling excited already. It’s nice to have these interactions with his family members.“You
Try Harder Chapter 43 – Wedding
Alena didn’t want to feel anxious and afraid on her big day. The boys helped cheer her up. Aunt Lee told them there’s nothing to worry about. She’s similar to their mom that way. Which must be why they liked her from the very beginning.Dylan and Dree were added to the program and were given roles in the ceremony. The cute toddler walked very slowly while holding onto her brother’s hand.Watching them and everyone who attended, Alena felt so much happiness in her heart.Oliver stood as his brother’s best man. Lee didn’t want to wear a gown so she was a simple attendee.Her sister Alice is her maid of honor.As for Alexis, she’s sitting in one corner with her husband. She gave birth last week and they brought their little angel with them. She’s the fussy kind.Soon, she would have one of her own.As she walked down the aisle, on the arm of her father, she couldn’t help feeling overw
Try Harder Chapter 42 – Background
“But you have your suspicions…” Christan brought up.“They’re just that. Suspicions. It would be a waste of time and mental energy if we go that route without tangible evidences. It could turn out to be something else. Let’s wait. Have some patience.”Alena realized that she’s very logical and clear-headed.Christan sighed and pulled her close to him. Lee grinned at their display of affection, turning to her husband and shamelessly sitting on his lap.Alena chuckled at her actions.“So, weren’t you planning on inviting us to your wedding?” Oliver brought up this topic.“I figured you wouldn’t be able to.” Christan reasoned. Just as he couldn’t take the time to go to the countryside, they couldn’t take the time to come to the city.“My family could.” Oliver grunted his reply and Lee swatted his arm.“How’s Car
Try Harder Chapter 41 – The Taylors
He kissed her and she responded with as much passion. Still, that’s the most they could do. They’re both tired. A few hours of sleep aren’t enough for them to regain their usual energy.“Let’s eat.” She recalled that they’re supposed to have lunch.Still, he spent a few more minutes hugging her close. What did he do to deserve another chance? To have found a woman like Alena? Oh, wait. She’s the one who persisted in chasing him. He would really be stupid if he lets her go.He took a deep breath before releasing her and taking her to the table. They fed each other and enjoyed the silent company. Alena moved to his lap again. This is as close as they could get right now.Afterwards, they returned to the bed and planned to take a few more hours of nap. But they couldn’t seem to fall asleep.He touched her cheeks. She has become thinner in just two days.“Did they starve you?” His
Try Harder Chapter 40 – His Past
His silence unnerved Alena. He’s not thinking of leaving her, is he? She’s really not going to agree to that. She put on a fierce expression, though her thoughts are a mess.“You’re not allowed to leave me. Don’t think you can protect me that way. I’m not going to agree. I’m going to stick to you like gum. If you love me, you’re not going to put both of us through a hell like that. We’re getting married, aren’t we?” Her tone started as angry but became pleading by the end of it.Christan stared at her as he contemplated more.It made her exasperated. She sat on his lap and hugged his neck, clinging to him.“Christan…” She would make sure they remain together. Just the thought of separation made her heart break. But it’s not going to happen. She’d come this far to let that happen.“There’s something I haven’t told you.” He began a
Try Harder Chapter 39 – Her Refusal
“I’m sorry.” He apologized to her and she frowned.“Why are you sorry?” She really thought it was because of her dad.“I’m sorry. Because of me, you suffered a lot.” His expression showed how sorry he is and it tugged at her heart.“No, don’t be. It’s not your fault.” Regardless of what it is, she knew he isn’t the one at fault. In business, personal attacks aren’t really unheard of. She understands this. Those people with evil intent are the ones they should blameThey all went back inside the house and Alena noticed Lee in a corner with a man. She’s guessing it’s her husband. Wait, her husband is Christan’s brother, right? The man would be her in-law soon.When they started asking questions, she looked exasperated and shook her head. She doesn’t want to talk about it another time. She’d been grilled at the agency and she didn’t
Try Harder Chapter 38 – Safe
She stumbled a few times and at one point, she scraped her knees on the ground.“Hurry.” The woman sounded very urgent and then she fired her own gun. Alena felt more terrified but thankfully, her legs didn’t go weak. She was able to move forward with her savior. She can tell that much by now, given how there seems to be a confrontation of some sort between two groups.Her movements became faster when she saw a vehicle from a distance. Is that their ride? Are they gonna be able to leave safely? It’s only a few yards away now.“Come on.”Alena breathed heavily when the door of the vehicle opened and they stumbled inside. She slumped on a seat as she tries to catch her breath. Her senses are starting to return to her. It was as if she couldn’t hear much earlier, save for the woman’s voice and the ringing gun shots.The woman removed her mask and Alena recognized her immediately.“Lee&hellip
Try Harder Chapter 37 – Rescue
Alena felt very uncomfortable and afraid. She doesn’t know who they are and why they took her.The men handled her roughly. Tugging her every time they want her to walk. Twice, she bumped her head on the top part of the doorways in the vehicles. They blindfolded her, tied her hands behind her, and the gag was disgusting. It should be clean as it didn’t taste anything, but it made her drool so much. Hygiene is the farthest thing from her mind.She hoped the boys were safe. It didn’t look like they also took them.They threw her in a messy room. It looked like an abandoned building of some sort and she’s in an old office. They only removed her gag and untied her hands when they brought her dinner. Some stale bread and hot coffee. Wow. This is worse than she imagined what kidnapped victims eat. When she tried to speak with the masked man, he immediately told her to shut up in a very loud voice. She flinched from how it irked her eardrums. To
