Mia's POV I finally gathered up the courage to leave my room. I spent the last one hour talking to Lilian over the phone, she cannot believe what's happening to me at the moment. According to her, she has only heard of such things happening in movies and has never seen such things happen in reality. "Mummy!" Lewis called as soon as he saw me step out of the room. He's always the clingy one, I have no idea what to say to him at the moment. I just hope Liam doesn't feel like asking me any questions. Because then I wouldn't be able to hide anymore, I promised myself I would never lie to my kids no matter what and would tell them nothing but the truth no matter what happens. "Are you okay with this?" I heard Jessica's voice and I wondered what she was talking about. I looked and was surprised by what I saw on the dining table."What are you doing Jessica? The last time I checked, it's my duty to cook and not yours. What did you even prepare now?" I asked her and she smiled at me with h
Mia's POV I flinched the minute I saw the boys walk into the kitchen with some stuffed toys in their hands. I didn't know what to say as I was confused at the moment trying to wrap my head as to what might be happening at the moment. "Boys, what are you both doing here? What did I tell you about behaving? I'm working and you both should not be here like this, now go back to the apartment with Jessica. Where is Jessica?" I asked but instead of Jessica, it was Azek who showed up instead. I frowned immediately when I saw him and dropped all the things I was holding. Seems it will be impossible to cook this night, I'm also really tired and want to go to sleep as well. I grabbed the twins by their hands and proceeded to leave the kitchen but Azek stopped me, holding my hand and pinning it against the wall."Everyone out now," Azek commanded and everyone rushed outside the kitchen leaving just the four of us in there."Is there something you want for me to prepare for you?" I asked him m
Mia's POV Immediately after I was done with the food, I made my way to the apartment with the boys. Though I know he wants to speak with me, I'm not willing to entertain any discussion with him. "Come here Liam and Lewis, it's time to get you to bed," I said and they followed me to the room, I finished taking care of them and tucked them into bed. The room went silent and I sighed trying not to cry, I looked at the kids on the bed and I couldn't help but feel extreme sadness deep within me. I know very soon they will begin to ask questions and will want to know who their father is. I have no idea what I will say to them then, and given the kind of personality my kids have, they likely start asking those questions right away and that doesn't seem to be anyway good at all. I stood up from the bed and headed to the sitting room, I paused seeing all the toys on the floor."How come I didn't notice this when I came in earlier? What exactly is Azek trying to do? Win me over by buying my k
Mia's POV The next day I woke up feeling a little bit optimistic which is something I have not felt in a while. Ever since this whole thing started, I have been feeling nothing but sad and angry every minute. I stepped into the bathroom to quickly have my bath, lizzy and I agreed she would be coming here to visit plus she was so eager to see the boys. It's been a while since we both sat down to talk or discuss anything. And one thing, I miss my best friend."And thinking of my best friend, I should call Lilian. I doubt if she will be happy that I have another friend and I've replaced her so soon." I said chuckling as I imagined what our reaction would be. I'm certain I can predict the words she might even use."You finally decided to call today, I thought maybe you have forgotten all about me. Since you are now in a new city and you live in that big mansion. You have forgotten your friend of little beginning, how very vain of you." She said and I burst into laughter, I was almost ro
Lizzy arrived at the mansion late in the morning, I told her not to come early because I didn't want her to encounter Azek. As much as I don't like what's happening now, I do feel liberated and free. At least I'm no longer hiding from Azek because I now live with him. "Mia!" Lizzy screamed as soon as she saw me come out of the duplex to meet her on the way. I had the head butler pick her up at the bus station, that was the only way I could ensure she didn't get lost. I know how clumsy Lizzy can get, and she doesn't seem to acknowledge it no matter how much I point it out."Lizzy!" I also giggled excitedly as I moved away from the door and ran to hug her. I missed my friend, she was the only thing close to family that I ever had. After my parents changed towards me, I had to take up a job at the mart just to be able to get by and afford some things for myself. That was when I met Lizzy, and to think I separated from her for so many years just to avoid Azek is awful now that I think a
Azek's POV I've not been able to concentrate on anything since I resumed this morning. Everything has been nothing short of frustrating for me. And even though I pretend not to know the reason, I know it's because of my wife. She's the only person that can drive me crazy like this. I have to find a way to make her forgive me no matter what, I just have to try. It's the only thing that matters to me right now, I don't even care about work or all of those things. None of them made any sense to me right now, I was still contemplating what to do when my phone rang. I checked and it was the private investigator I hired to find out about the twins. He must have some news for me and it better be something good."Are they my children?" That was the question I asked him and I'm sure he must be shocked as well. I really can't help but be paranoid about this whole thing."Well I can't tell Mr Ford but, with the information you provided me and what I have here. The chances are high, I forwarded
Mia's POV Immediately I opened the door, I was shocked at the person I saw at the door. And here I am thinking he won't be bothering me anymore. Just who does he think he is to treat me like this? Coming here whenever it so pleases him, I frowned as I placed my hand over my chest. "What do you want now Azek? I'm not interested in any of your silly games this night so please leave me alone already." I said and slammed the door but he was fast enough to catch the door. As though he already predicted my move."Mia please wait, we can sort this out," Azek said and ran after me, but I was in no mood for his nonsense. I had so much fun today, the last thing I need right now is to end my day with a fight especially one with Azek."Mia, I'm begging and asking you to give me a chance to explain all that happened. I know my behaviour can't be excused but you have to at least let me say what I have to say. I've been looking for you for the past five years, I even went to great lengths to have
Azek's POV I heard what she said and I could feel the blood wipe off my face. I bet she's only saying that to cover up and make me mad, I walked close to her grabbing her by the hand. "Mia I know you are mad at me but please don't deprive me of spending time with my children, they are mine and I know it. I had a private investigator look things up and I discovered a few things. First, the kids and I have the same surname. Then secondly, you had them five months after you left. How then can you say they are not mine? That is not fair to them or to me, they have to know their father." I said already feeling angry myself."You had me looked up? How dare you do that? Just who the hell do you think you are to look into my life like that?" Mia asked yelling at me."You left me with no other choice Mia, you don't want to talk to me or give me the slightest chance to even explain myself to you," I said trying to get close to her but, she kept drawing back. "Why do you suddenly care about t
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