ANNIKA'S POV“I heard you got married. Who's the unlucky girl?” the woman asked as she stood up and walked towards us.I felt how Caspian stiffened when he saw her. His eyes immediately widened, failing to hide the surprise. “Juliette? What are you doing here?” he asked, letting my hand go.When his hand left mine, it took away the warmth, leaving my palms in cold sweat. I stood there, watching as they gaze at each other. Then, I felt a punch on my chest when the woman he called Juliette stroked his arms. Her other hand traced Caspian's face, and I can see he was distracted with her touch.“Oh, is that how you welcome an old friend?” Juliette asked, emphasizing the last two words. She then turned her gaze on me and I couldn't help but feel so little. ”Won’t you introduce me to your lovely wife?”She looked at me from head to toe…then she looked at my face and faked a smile. Judging from Caspian's reaction, and the familiarity of their touch…I didn't need to ask who Juliette was in his
ANNIKA'S POV”His heart is already tied…”Like a broken record, those words kept on ringingin inside my head. No matter how I try to shake those thoughts away, I couldn't. The image of Caspian while wiping Juliette's tears flashed vividly on my mind. I felt a stab on my chest.I shouldn't feel this way…but maybe it was his genuine concern, kindness and thoughtfulness that made me see him in a different way…in a different light.The night went on. Caspian didn't even realize that I wasn't with him. I sipped on the glass of wine as I gaze at the millions of stars that illuminates the sky. The wind was cold, so hugged myself a little tighter. From where I stood, I can hear their heartful laugh. I should have known…I don't belong in this place.I wanted to get mad…or to feel jealous, but then. I remembered I wasn't supposed to like him. I wasn't supposed to break rule number three, but I did…I did.I looked up, took a deep breath and then, I closed my eyes. I felt the cold wind kissing my
ANNIKA'S POVI was pacing back and forth while waiting outside the operating room. It has been three hours since the operation began, but we haven't heard from the doctors yet. I'm beginning to feel anxious and worried. Cold sweat broke on my forehead and I wiped it hastily, closing my eyes to utter a silent prayer.“Hey…”I turned around to see Caspian holding a cup of coffee, then he handed it to me. “Drink this. And please, just relax. The doctors are doing the best for her.” He smiled reassuringly at me.“I can't…especially not when I know the surgery’s not yet done. What if she won't survive? What if—”“Sshhhh…” He then gathered me into his arms and hugged me tight. “Everything's gonna be alright. I promise you that. She will make it because she knows you're waiting for her. She'll make it, hmmm.“He kissed the top of my head, and continued whispering comforting words. Soon enough, I found myself relaxing under his touch, and gentle strokes. I sat on the seat provided outside the
ANNIKA'S POVI took a deep breath and sighed. It felt like I was floating, and my mind was in turmoil. I sat on the couch, waiting for Caspian to go home. It's been five hours since he left his office to follow Juliette, and yet, he has not returned home. I had no idea where they went, but my heart ached at the thought that they were together...or that maybe they're doing something behind my back.To be honest, I had no idea how I went home today. Whatever magic I felt inside Caspian's office earlier, it immediately disappeared. I reminded myself about our contract, but I can't stop myself from hurting. It pained me to think that he could drop me...in an instant whenever Juliette was there.Sometimes, I wonder if all his gestures were true. Caspian made me feel important. He has given me assurance even when he didn't need to. For days, he made me feel special that I thought, maybe I was slowly occupying a space in his heart. Or was I wrong? I don't know.I sighed, and closed my eyes, t
ANNIKA'S POVI couldn't move. I couldn't explain how I feel, seeing them together. They were just eating dinner, I know that...and yet, it couldn't even comfort my heart. I was hurt.“Hey, let's get inside. I'm starting -- wait, is that who I think it was?” Jade asked in confusion.I nodded my head. I can't trust myself to speak right now. I'm afraid that if I tried to open my mouth, I might end up a crying mess. That's the last thing I want for now.“Shall we go somewhere instead?” Jade asked.Maybe we should. I think we should.“Yes--”“Oh, hi! Annika, right?” I froze when I heard Juliette's voice. Why did she have to see me right before we could even leave?I faked a smile...“Yes, Juliette. It was nice to see you. And you too, honey...”Caspian turned to me. His eyes widened, as if he wasn't expecting to see me there.“Oh, I hope you don't mind. I borrowed your husband for a bit...” she giggled. “I wanted to eat outside, and it would be sad to eat alone, don't you think? I don't hav
ANNIKA'S POV“What did she tell you?” Jade repeatedly asked.She looked pissed and if only let her, I know she would confront Juliette. But I didn't want that to happen. She's my friend, alright, but she doesn't have to get involved. I know she only cared for me, but I didn't want her to look bad.I shook my head. “Not now, Jade. I don't want any trouble...“She sighed defeatedly. “Fine... I'll let this pass for now. But if it happens again, I will teach the woman a lesson. i don't care who she is, but if she hurts my friend, then she'd an enemy. Promise me...that next time, you will tell me anything that bothers you, Annika. You know you can always share your burdens to me. You're more like a sister to me, and I don't want to see you getting hurt or crying. After everything you've been through, you don’t deserve it.“I nodded my head and hugged her tight. What would I do without her?I wiped my tears, and washed my face. And then, I retouched so it won't look like I cried. My eyes ar
Since that day, Juliette made sure to remind me about our conversation every chance she gets. And I hate that no matter how I try to say I'm not affected, the truth remains that every words she said has grown roots into my heart. Doubt started to occupy my heart again...and at times, I begin to question the genuity of Caspian's actions.I just realized how everything between us happened so fast. Yes, I was attracted to him even before I married him. But what about him? Did he feel the same way for me before? Or did his attraction only began when he finally took me?Immediately, my eyes began to water, and my mood became foul. These days, I couldn't help but to wonder why I make everything seem like a big deal. Especially when Juliette visits the office, and she would take time inside Caspian's office. I couldn't help but to get angry...and jealous.There were times when I wanted so bad to barge in, and tell her to leave my husband alone. But whenever she looks at me, and smirks at me,
ANNIKA'S POVWhen I finally calmed down, Caspian took me to a private beach property, owned by his friend Hunter. The sound of the waves as they repeatedly crashed to the seashore made me feel serene and at peace. We were sitting down on a blanket by the seashore, with a bonfire that kept us warm and cozy. Behind us was a tent that Caspian has set up -- which we will be using to sleep later. Although, there's a villa, we decided to go outdoors for tonight.The night sky was twinkling with stars, and the smiling crescent moon only added to it's beauty and magnificence. The cold wind blew, but I felt warm from the bonfire and Caspian's firm arms that were hugging me from the back while his head was resting on my shoulder.It was an unplanned trip, and Caspian was quick to have our things delivered by one of his men. I closed my eyes and felt the rush of air blowing on my face. I've never felt so happy, carefree and calm in the last few days. Maybe this is what I need, to detach myself f
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