ANNIKA'S POVAries has already left, but Jade insisted to stay with me. I rolled my eyes and took a deep breath for the nth time as she continued to scold me.“Annika, you're pregnant! Instead of letting her get into your nerves, you should have taken a deep breath and let it pass! I know it's not okay, but please. . . For the sake of your child, don't make any more drastic actions, will you?” she pleaded.She's been going on about it for almost an hour already, and it makes me more and more guilty. I hate to admit that she's right. It was reckless, and childish.“Alright, I'm sorry. I know I shouldn't have provoked her. I don't have an excuse to that. I let my anger get to me without thinking about the welfare of my child,” I said, biting my lips out of guilt.Jade sighed and hugged me. “I'm not mad at you. I totally understand how you feel. Its just that. . . I care for you and I don't want you to get hurt,” she whispered.I nodded my head at her. We were in that position when we hea
ANNIKA’S POV“Hi, Mom. How are you?”I kissed Mom's cheeks and bent over to give her a hug. She immediately noticed the scratches on my face. Her eyes snapped as she looked behind me, and I knew then that Caspian was already there. I didn't want him to come with me, however, he insisted, leaving me with no other choice but to go with him. She looked at me again and held my hand. “What happened to your face?”“Nothing, Mom. I just had a little accident at work,” I lied. Her eyes widened as worry filled her eyes. “What happened? Annika! You're almost due, you should take good care of yourself! What if something happened to you?”I hugged her tighter to calm her. I felt even more guilty for making her worry. I looked at Caspian who was looking at me too. I'm not sure if he was relieved that I didn't tell the truth. . . Or worried because it seemed to affect my Mother so much. “But nothing happened, Mom. And I promise, I'll take good care next time. By the way, we've brought you some g
ANNIKA’S POVMaybe it was the time we spent together, or the nostalgic feeling of having him by my side that made me feel light. Thinking about the days we spent together, I suddenly had the urge to give him one more chance.For a moment, I couldn't think about anything, but Caspian and our memories that somehow filled my heart with warmth. It has been so long since I felt this way, and I couldn't help but to smile.Despite the threat that Juliette imposes in our lives, I couldn't stop my heart from wanting Caspian— from trusting him and believing his words again. And I hate that my heart is slowly melting with his words again. I know I shouldn't believe him, but my stupid heart just wouldn't cooperate.I sighed.“You look happy,” Jade commented.She was standing a few feet away from me, combing her hair with her fingers. She looked at me suspiciously as if she knew why I was acting this way.“I'm not,” I denied. “Tell that to the Marines,” she said and rolled her eyes before sitting
ANNIKA’S POVMy heart skipped a beat as I watched Caspian closing our distance. His warm smile that reached his eyes told me he was happy to see me. Judging from his clothes, it was obvious that he came here straight from work.He looked formal and intimidating, however, his smile was a giveaway. And somehow, it melted my heart knowing that I was the reason for that beautiful smile. “Hi,” he greeted as soon as he was near me.I cleared my throat, and replied, “Hello.”“I hope you don't mind, but. . . I — uh, I would like to ask if you have plans for dinner?” he asked.“Why?” I asked back.Caspian smiled softly and scratched his head as if he was embarrassed of something. “I— if you have no plans, I would like to invite you out to a dinner. That is. . . If it's okay with you? But if you have plans—”“Okay,” I replied, cutting him off.“Alright— wait, what? Did you say okay? You mean you're coming with me?” he asked in confusion. His eyes grew huge as he realized what I said. He was so
ANNIKA’S POV“You prepared all of these for me?” I asked.We were already seated in front of each other. Our food was served, and we began eating, but I can't get over with everything. I am still in disbelief, seeing how mych passion and effort he put into this little surprise that made my heart flutter with joy.Caspian smiled sheepishly. He looked as if he was embarrassed. . .maybe because he's not used to doing this kind of thing for a woman. Knowing him, women would die just to be with him. He doesn't need to beg them or worship them, because they'd come crawling at him with every chance they get.But to see him going on the extra mile just to make this moment unforgettable, I can't help but to feel appreciated and loved. And maybe. . . It was just right to give him another chance after all.“I know this isn't enough. . . Nothing's gonna be enough to take away all the pain that I caused you. But, I will grab this chance. . . this opportunity to make everything better. I would get
ANNIKA’S POV“I think you should go home. I'm sure Jade will be here any moment now,” I said after a little while.I couldn't look at him. . . Much more meet his eyes. We both cried when he said those words, and I can feel the deepest regrets he hide behind those words.It was bittersweet, and painful. It was heartbreaking and heartwarming at the same time. It was something I wanted so bad to hear, yet when I heard him say those words, it broke me too.It was raw, pure and genuine that it made me tear up more. It was like a dream, only that it was better.“Can I stay a little bit longer? Tell you what, I'll just wait until Jade arrives. And as soon as she's already here, I'll go home,” he negotiated.“She wouldn't like it if she finds you here at this hour,” I said.“I'll handle her,” he replied.I sighed. It seems like he's not going to do as I say. He was so determined to stay here. . . If it means he gets the chance to be with me for a fee more minutes. Somehow, it warmed my heart
ANNIKA’S POVI was in front of my computer, doing some reports that Aries needed for his meeting later this afternoon when the door suddenly burst open, and he came in.It was a hectic day for him and he had been having meetings since morning. He was a holding a box of donuts, and a Frappuccino from Starbucks in his other hand.“Hey Annika, I brought you snacks,” he said the moment he saw me.My eyes grew huge in surprise. I thought it was for him, so when he put the box of donuts and the frappe on my table, I couldn't quite hide my excitement, yet at the same time, I was a little bit embarrassed.“Thank you, Aries. You didn't have to,” I replied shyly.Aries only smiled at me. “It's fine, Annika. I really got it for you. It’s actually a treat and my simple way of saying thank you for your hard work. You've been really busy today, and besides, you're my lucky charm. Since you started working here, my business seemed to blossom.”“Wow, that's good to hear!“ I exclaimed.I stopped typing
ANNIKA’S POVMy eyes widened, and tears began to form in the corner of my eyes as I felt another wave of contractions. I gasped loudly, and held onto the wall tightly for support. “Aaahhhh!“ I screamed.Hearing my scream, Caspian panicked and almost dropped Juliette to the floor. The door suddenly burst open, revealing Jade who was shocked to see us three.“What's happening here? What is that bitch doing here?” she asked with confusion.Before I could answer her question, Juliette and I let out a loud scream.“Aaaahhh! It's getting really painful, Caspian! Bring me to the hospital!” Juliette yelled. “Help! I think I'm going to give birth now!” I screamed, looking at Jade.Jade looked at me with confusion, but as soon as she realized what I said, her eyes grew wide and her mouth hung open.She looked at Caspian, who was now dazed and almost indecisive. He couldn't even move from his spot, as if he's feet were glued to the floor.He looked at Juliette, and then he turned his eyes to me
CASPIAN'S POV It was a fine summer day, the warm breeze of air kissed our skin as the birds sing along with the melodious song playing in the backgroun. Everybody was dressed accordingly. The guests were chattering, exchanging their curious glances with each other. The beautiful and colorful flowers made the surrounding so magical -- enchanting, just like how I felt with her. I smiled as I watched her walking down the improvised aisle, along with Pachelbel's Canon D filling the place. I still coulnd't believe I'm getting married to her. . .again. I could still remember the very first time I saw her in my office. She was dressed like an old maid. She was always quiet and nervous around me, and I barely even look at her. She seemed too ordinary for me. And yet, something about her eyes caught my attention. She was aloof. Unlike my previous secretaries, Annika never tried to make advances on me. In the last years that she worked for me, she never looked at me as if I was someone inter
CASPIAN’S POV When I was young, I used to believe that we had a perfect family. Many of our friends and relatives envied the kind of relationship my Mom shared with Dad. Yet, even as a child, I noticed the sadness hiding in Mom's eyes whenever she's alone. My mom was a beauty. Many tried to pursue her, but my Dad won her heart. Dad, was already a successful businessman, but my Mom came from a family of old riches. It was late for her to realize my father's true intentions. In front of everyone, my father painted a picture-perfect family, but no one knows the tears my mother cried when we're left alone at the house. I didn't understand it then. . .But when I saw a woman begging for my father's attention outside our mansion, my gut turned cold. Who was the woman? And most importantly, who was the child he was holding?The child looked a little older than me, but he was skinny. He was dressed poorly and he smelled like he hadn't taken a bath in a week. His eyes were almost deep with hu
ANNIKA'S POVI was up early this morning, watching the two handsome men in my life as they hugged each other tight. The warm golden rays of the sun are slowly creeping in, reminding me that it's a brand new day I should be thankful for. I stared at the boys, uttering a silent prayer to the one above for keeping us safe and bringing us back to each other again. I stared at them, unmoving, as I was afraid I'd lose them in the blink of an eye.Gently, I touched my son's cheek as if making sure he is really in front of me. And when I felt his soft skin on my fingers, a lump formed in my throat as the dreaded memories of the previous day haunted back my mand. I'd lose my sanity if anything happened to him. It will surely be the death of me. And again, I thanked the heavens for not allowing it to happen.Slowly, I got out of the bed, fixed myself and made my way into the kitchen to prepare our breakfast. I immersed myself into cooking while humming a happy tune. It's a day to celebrate. . .
ANNIKA'S POV "Annika!" "Baby!" Jade and Caspian shouted in unison as they rushed towards me, but I didn't falter. I remained kneeling in front of Aries, holding tight onto his pants as I begged for him to let go of my son. "Aries, please. . .don't hurt my son. He doesn't deserve all of this," I begged. I couldn't stop myself from crying. I felt so helpless. . .so useless! I can't save my own son. As Timmy looked down on me, my heart shattered, seeing the fear that's clearly written in his eyes. My heart broke as I watched him struggling to break free from Aries. The cops slowly backed down, repositioning themselves as they strategized on how to take down Aries. Juliette stood frozen to the ground as Aries began to walk backwards, still holding my son while pointing the gun on his head. "Everyone, don't move or I'll blow this child's head!" he warned. My eyes grew huge in fear! I cried so hard as I melted to the ground. Caspian reached out for me and pulled me back up.
ANNIKA'S POV I felt so anxious. It's been hours since Aries and Juliette took Timmy, yet we still haven't heard an update. Ms. Brown was sent home to rest. Her eyes were swollen from crying the whole afternoon. The management of the school also called to inform us about the repercussions of Ms. Brown's actions that put our son's life in danger. Caspian was pacing back and forth, his eyes couldn't hide the worry and anger that filled him. He was breathing harshly, and I can feel his growing impatience. It's already dark, we're tired, and yet, we couldn't afford to go home without any news about the whereabouts of our son. "I can't wait here anymore. I need to find my son!" he muttered angrily. "I'm coming with you," I stood up and ran to him. Just then, the police officers approached us. "We've already searched around the area, but there are no sightings of them. We've also put a lookout bulletin for them, and alerted the security of the nearby towns. They won't get far, we
ANNIKA'S POVThe moment we left the hospital room, Caspian fell down on his knees. He looked so weak and vulnerable, his tears kept flowing down his already wet cheeks. His eyes held guilt, regret and most of all. . .pain. If only there was a way I could take it from him.Slowly, I bent my knees down and sat down in front of him, holding his face with my hands. I gently wiped his tears, hoping that I could wipe away his pain. I touched his cheek, resting my forehead against his and whispered, "Don't blame yourself, Caspian. Your feelings are valid. You were angry and hurt.""Still. . .I could have been the bigger person. I should have forgiven him a long time ago. I should have talked to him a long time ago. . ." he whispered regretfully.He was vile man. He has done so many terrible things to both us. He has hurt us in many ways. And yet. . .I couldn't find any reason not to forgive him. Those things that he did in the past were bound to happen. I never understood it before, but look
ANNIKA'S POV"Be good, okay?" I instructed Timmy as we dropped him off to school."Yes, Mommy," he replied."We'll come back for you later," Caspian said.Timmy chirped happily as he went inside their classroom to play with his classmates. We stayed for a few moments, and I couldn't help but shed a tear seeing him enjoying his class. I couldn't actually believe that I'm here now. . .that I'm witnessing this moment that I once thought would never happen in my life."Are you okay?" Caspian asked."Yes, I am. I'm just a little overwhelmed. I honestly thought I'd never get to experience this," I said softly.Caspian pulled me to his side and kissed my temple. I closed my eyes in oblivion. I could feel the loud beating of his heart or the harsh breaths he take as he hugged me tight."And I never thought I could do this with you again. Let's go? We have an important appointment," he saidWe left the school to go to the police station to ask for an update. The cases have been filed by Caspia
ANNIKA'S POVI took a deep breath and stared into the wall. Caspian was hugging me from behind, our naked bodies covered under a warm blanket. I could feel his warm breath on my neck while his right hand was stroking my shoulders, trying to put me to sleep. But I couldn't.It dawned on me -- what happened at the restaurant. I couldn't forget how mad Juliette was and I got a feeling that something might happen. My heart raced at the thought, and soon, worry and fear crept into my heart."What's the matter, Annika?" Caspian asked softly.I turned around to face him. He was looking at me intently, his eyes were filled with genuine concern. I took another deep breath. I couldn't explain how I feel."I don't know, Caspian. I just feel like something's bound to happen--"Caspian tightened his embrace, pulling me closer to his body before planting a soft kiss on my head, making me stop talking."Nothing's going to happen, baby. I won't allow anything to happen. They will pay for everything,
ANNIKA’S POV I closed my eyes, wrapping my arms around his nape as he deepened the kiss. His right hand fell onto the small of my back, holding me closer to his body. He licked my lips and gently nibbled it, provoking an entrance. And when I parted my lips, he immediately slipped his tongue through my mouth. I gasped as he kissed me fervently, tasting every corner of my mouth while his hand began stroking my back in an erotic manner. A soft moan escaped my lips when I felt his hand gently squeezing my bottom. “C-Caspian. . .” I moaned his name. It's been a long time since I felt this kind of sensation. The way his hands expertly moved around my body, leaving each spot tingling with a delicate sensation and igniting a fire in me. I felt feverish, my mouth gaped open as I arched my neck to accommodate his sweet lips. “Ooohhh,” I moaned again when he sucked on my neck, gently nibbling on it. Caspian showered my neck with soft, feathery kisses. I felt myself melting under his tou