Mia's POV I looked at myself in the mirror and I could barely recognize myself at all. The makeup artist did a really good job, the last time I had this kind of beautiful work done on myself was on my wedding day with Azek. Something I wished never happened but then again, I'm glad that it happened because I would never have been able to give birth to my boys if not for him. And I'm thankful for them every day. I tried the gown yesterday and it was absolutely beautiful, I really can't wait to wear it again, now that I think about it. If a staff like me is looking this beautiful for the event, I wonder what the guests will look like. My boss must truly be the richest man in this country cause there's no other explanation for his generosity towards me in this manner."You look really beautiful Chef Mendez, you look like a bride," Jessica said and I was forced to smile, Jessica does have a way with words I have to give that to her. "Thank you, Jessica, the makeup and the dress are ind
Azek's POV I stood there on the stage as I locked eyes with Mia standing over there. I have no intention of making any kind of speech, I just wanted her to see me and know I'm here with her. And she looks so beautiful, much more than I've ever seen her look. The gown I chose for her looks perfect on her body hugging and highlighting her curves perfectly well."Chef Mendez, do you know the boss?" Jessica asked Mia but she was too dumbstruck and shocked to say anything. Mia looked around and she could see all eyes on her, that was because he was looking at her. They must be wondering what's keeping Master Ford's attention so much. Suddenly everything that has happened since she came here to this city rushed down her memory. From getting her duplex in the mansion, to getting a personal maid down to getting special treatments. The spa, gown, and every other thing, was all Azek and she didn't have any idea. God, how could she have been so stupid? Lily even told her about him moving to a
Mia's POV I tried my best not to cry but I just couldn't bring myself to stop. After I left the Ford mansion back then, I suffered so much after I moved out of the country. I was pregnant with twins with nowhere to go, where the hell was I supposed to go? That was one of the many questions that plagued my mind, and here he is. Pretending as if nothing had happened, he even hired me to be his private chef."Mia, I know I have done a lot of bad things and I haven't been good to you. But I had my reasons, and though they are not valid enough. I need you to please give me a chance and hear me out, please Mia." Azek said, but I was not having any of it. "I really can't believe you have the guts to even call my name, what's the essence of all this nonsense? How dare you deceive me into working for you? What else do you want from me? You never wanted me anyway, I did you a favor by leaving. Why are you still chasing after me, and pretending as though you care about me? I'm leaving now, and
Mia's POV "And who the hell do you think you are to order me around like that? I will go wherever I wish and please, there's absolutely nothing you are going to do about that." I said to him very upset, I could not believe everything he put me through. He still has the confidence to be arrogant to me."I'm sorry that I had to do this Mia, but it was the only way to get through to you. You suddenly disappeared like you never even existed, I looked for you everywhere all to no avail. I did everything humanly possible to find my wife, but no matter where I went or turned to. It's always a dead end, that was why after I saw you in that magazine. I know I had to find you and I did, please give me the chance to make things right with you." Azek pleaded, and even though he sounded pretty genuine. I'm not willing to fall for his lies anymore, I will be simply foolish to do so."First and foremost, you are not my husband. You never were and you never will be, and secondly, I'm leaving this pl
Mia's POV "What do you want Jessica? Now is not the time for that please." I said to her and she walked to me and held me by the hand."Is everything alright?" She asked me and I shook my head things were not alright. With what happened that night, how can things ever be alright? I thought to myself and tears began to flow down my eyes. I can't believe I'm trapped in this place like this, this is nothing but cruelty and I won't stand for it. "Is the boss the boy's father?" She asked me and I nodded my head, I couldn't bring myself to lie to her. There's no point in doing that anyway. "Is it that obvious?" I asked her and she nodded her head as well, I threw my face away. I wonder what will happen right after now. Everyone will begin to talk and I doubt if I can take that, I don't want my kids to be the center of attraction. This simply cannot be happening, all in one night. My life seems to have turned upside down, and the most annoying part is that I can't do anything about it. "
Azek's POV I paced my room like a woman about to have a child. I have no idea what I'm doing but all I can say is that I'm nervous. I can feel the tightness in my stomach and I feel like throwing up. Suddenly the door opened and Mia came into the room, she's not happy as her face says it all."Mia!" I called out her name and moved closer to her, she just stood there like a log of wood not saying anything or making any sound. Mia can feel her bones about to erupt from anger, she didn't sleep well last night. And just when she was about to find the perfect sleep this morning, Azek asked for her. His audacity to even call her name after all he did to her is shocking, to say the least. She thought about the situation all night, and truly she won't be able to leave this place until after one year. She brought out her copy of the agreement that was signed and it's written there. Just the way Azek explained it yesterday, she can't believe she was stupid enough not to read and thoroughly s
Mia's POV I was really surprised to hear what Lewis said and I turned to look at him, it seemed as though he had met Azek before. I looked over at Liam for some sort of explanation, he's the one who always knows what's going on. He didn't look surprised as well, I turned to Azek. I'm not interested in talking to him and I don't want to argue before my kids."I guess you want me to prepare you something to eat now, I will get right to it as soon as possible. Kids go to your room, I will have Jessica come here and attend to you both while I make some meal for the boss." I said not looking at Azek. "Hello Liam and Lewis," I heard Azek say and I looked up in shock, I don't remember ever mentioning the names of my kids. How the hell then does he even know their names, the kids don't sound surprised as well. I know Liam too well, he would have been asking him questions by now if this was not the first time they had seen each other."Can someone please explain to me what's going on here? L
Azek's POV I made my way out of the kitchen, it took me a while to get to my senses. By the time I was in the sitting room, Mia was already gone and she even locked the door leaving me behind. That's an indication she doesn't want to speak to me and I should respect her wish and let her be. I heaved a deep sigh as I walked out of her duplex, I checked for the time and I was already late for the first meeting. But right now, that is the last thing I want to hear or even think about. I'm too engrossed in my feelings to even think straight, I got into the car and the driver drove off.I got to the company and made my way to the conference hall where the meeting would be taking place. I got in and Reed was already there helping me, even though he says countless times that he's not so interested in the company. He really cannot sit back and watch things go bad, can he? I sat there like a log of wood trying to make sense of everything that had been said. But I'm a total lost cause this mo
Reed looked up, his eyes ablaze with determination."I'll make it right," he promised.I smiled. "I know you will."We sat down to dinner, the initial uncomfortable silence giving way to halting conversation. Reed shared stories of his rehabilitation and growth, his struggles and triumphs. Natalie's laughter filled the room, music to my ears. Azek's quiet strength provided a steady anchor.I watched Reed watching Natalie, hopeful, believing in second chances redemption, and love. The road ahead wouldn't be easy, but together, we'd face it.The tension dissipated as dinner progressed, replaced by warmth and camaraderie. Reed's eyes never left Natalie's face, his gaze filled with adoration. Natalie's smile softened, her eyes sparkling with amusement.Azek broke the spell by clearing his throat. "So, Reed, what's next?" Reed became thoughtful. "I need to atone, prove myself. I find work and start volunteering. whatever it takes." Daniel nodded. His expression was approving. "That's a g
Natalie's P.O.V.As we sat to discuss the aftermath of the consequences, Reed's desperate plea kept replaying in my head. "Wait for me, Natalie." Each word echoed in my brain, reminding me of the promise that I had made to him.Mia broke into my thoughts. "Do you think he's capable of changing?" Her brow was furrowed with worry.I clenched my teeth, unsure. "I want to believe it's possible," I said at last.Azek's face had turned contemplative. "People can change, Nat," he said. "But it takes work. And Reed's got a long way to go."Daniel nodded in agreement. "He's got to prove himself, not just to you, but to all of us."I nodded, knowing they were right. Reed's journey to redemption wasn't going to be easy.As the conversation continued, I could only but find myself in the grip of every word dropping from her lips and wondering about his future. Was he going to succeed in his quest to be a better man?Or would he fail at it, lose his chance, and never redeem himself?The uncertainty
Natalie's POV I slid into the passenger seat, Daniel's eyes catching mine in the rearview mirror."Still in love with a criminal, huh?" he said, heavy on the sarcasm.I felt a flush rise to my cheeks."That's not fair, Daniel," I said, my voice sure.Daniel's eyes crinkled at the corners."I'm just keeping it real, Nat," he said. "Reed's got a lot to answer for."I sighed."I know," I said. "But I need to understand why."Daniel's expression softened."All right, I understand," he said. "But promise me one thing.""What?" I asked."Promise me you'll keep your guard up," Daniel said, his eyes serious.I nodded."I will."The ride to the prison was dead silent as my mind created images of Reed.What was it that had driven him to such decisions?And would I ever truly, fully forgive him?We pulled up and Daniel cut the engine off."You ready?" he asked.I took a deep breath in."Yeah."Daniel walked beside me, his silent presence that of someone who'd be there whatever happened.We move
Mia's P.O.V.Later, I went to prison and met Chloe. "Chloe, I have news. "What is it?" she asked."I'm pregnant," I said Chloe's face softened. "Congratulations, Mia.""I forgive you, Chloe," I said.Chloe's eyes welled up. "I'm going to be an aunt."As I walked out, finally there was closure. A new chapter unfolded for all of us – with love, forgiveness, and a growing family.Azek's lips brushed mine. "We're in this together.""Forever," I replied.Inspector Thompson conveyed congratulations on my pregnancy."Well, congratulations, ma'am."I smiled and said, "Thank you, Inspector.""When will my sister be parole-eligible?""In five to seven years, given that she has cooperated and her behavior has been good," he said.I nodded, wrapping my mind around the timeline."What of Reed?"Reed will do a bit more time since he's an accessory to the crime," Inspector Thompson explained. Azek wrapped arms around me. "Alright?""Chloe will be eligible for parole in five to seven years," I
Mia's Pov Today was the day of Chloe and Reed's hearing. By now, Azek was fully recovered and stood beside me, his hand clasped tightly around mine as we stood outside the courthouse. The morning sun cast a gold glow.Liam and Lewis were clinging to Natalie, their small hands clasped in hers. "Mommy, what is happening today?" Liam queried. I squatted beside them. "Today, Chloe and Reed will be sentenced," I told them. Lewis's eyes went wide. "Will they go to jail?" I nodded. "Yes, baby. They will."Natalie's face went hard. "They need to suffer for what they did." Azek's jaw flexed. "They will." As we started to enter the courtroom, Chloe and Reed scrambled to get themselves prepared. Chloe finally looked at me, a fire of anger and desperation in her eyes. Reed simply cast his face down, shame etched on it.Bang. The gavel fell, and with it, the room fell silent. "This court is now in session." The prosecutor stood, outlining the charges: kidnapping, conspiracy, treason. The evidence
---------Mia's POV I felt my world crumble as Azek's body hit the floor. "No! Azek!" I screamed, Lewis, clinging to me in terror.Daniel rushed to Azek's side, his face ashen. "He's been hit!"Inspector Thompson barked orders, securing the area. "Get a medic in here, now!"Rachel's voice came through the comms device, laced with panic. "Azek, no! Hang in there!"I dropped to my knees, clutching Azek's head in my lap. "Stay with me," I begged, as tears streamed down my face.Azek's eyes flickered open, his gaze locking onto mine. "Mia. Lewis. Safe?" he whispered.I nodded, doing my best to choke back a sob. "We're safe. You saved us."A faint smile crossed his lips. "I'll always. protect you."The medic charged in skillfully checking over the wound on Azek's side. "We need to get him to the hospital, now."They rushed Azek away, and I clung to Lewis as my heart broke.Daniel's arm went around me, his voice barely above a whisper. "He'll pull through, Mia. He has to."I nodded, unable
Mia's POV My heart stopped as I stared into Liam, my face a mask of horror."A bomb," Daniel whispered, his eyes bulging in terror. "They've strapped a bomb to him."Azek went white. "Get away from him, Mia."But I was frozen on the spot. My child, my innocent Liam, was standing before me, a ticking time bomb strapped to his chest.Reed laughed hysterically in the warehouse. "You'll never leave this place alive."Kuznetsov's voice was laced with malice. "The programming includes a self-destruct mechanism. Anyone tries to remove the bomb, it detonates."Inspector Thompson's voice was steady and calm as it came through the comms device. "Bomb squad, move in. We need a defusal expert, now."Liam's eyes locked on mine, a faint glimmer of recognition flickering."Mom," he whispered, his voice barely audible.Tears streamed down my face. "Liam, baby, hold on."Daniel slowly made his way over to Liam, his hands held out. "Liam, don't move. We're going to get you out of this."Azek's eyes ne
Mia's POV As we left the hospital, the weight of the note settled heavily in my mind. "You'll never find them." Reed's taunting words echoed through my thoughts, fueling my determination. Azek's hand remained wrapped around mine, a steady anchor amid chaos."We'll find them," he repeated, his eyes detecting, I knew, my skepticism. "Reed thinks he's smart, but he's left trails. We'll follow them to wherever it takes us."Inspector Thompson nodded in assent. "We'll go through every shred of evidence, every possible connection that there might be. We will leave nothing unturned."Daniel fell into step beside us, peering at his phone. "I have a lead on Reed's financials. He has been siphoning money to an offshore account."Azek's grip on my hand tightened. "That is our first break. Let us see where it takes us."The investigation was taking shape, but the more the hours passed, the more anxious I felt. Where were Liam and Lewis? Were they scared? Were they safe?As we approached Azek's c
Mia's POV My phone rang, shrill in the tight atmosphere. "Mia, it's the hospital," the nurse said. "Natalie's awake. You should come." I turned to Azek. "Natalie's awake. I need to go." Azek nodded. "I'll come with you." He informed Inspector Thompson, "I'm leaving to see Natalie. Keep me updated." Then he told Daniel, "Stay with the inspector, in case anything comes up."We raced to Natalie's room at the hospital. "Natalie," I whispered, clutching her hand. Her eyes fluttered open. "Mia. Azek.""What happened?" Azek asked; his voice was laden with concern. Natalie's gaze drifted, remembering the events. "Reed. he came. Took the kids." she stuttered. The look of shock widened Azek's eyes, and I felt like I'd been punched."Reed?" I echoed in disbelief. Natalie's voice shook. "I tried to stop him. but he overpowered me." Azek's face went white. "Why Reed?" he whispered. Natalie's tears began to fall. "I don't know. He said something about teaching you a lesson."My mind was reeling. R