All Chapters of Love And Tales: Chapter 21 - Chapter 30

Elena’s POVWith a high head, I confidently entered my first-ever workplace.Hmm.. I sighed, I could sense the feeling of independence gushing all over me as I couldn't contain the excitement of having a job.I got into the reception putting one foot in front of the other and walked past the front desk manager into the office hallway as a warm light up my entire face.I watched other workers murmur in extremely low tones, I didn't mind their tittle-tattle because I was excited that I had finally gotten a job, a proper one at that that would be used to cater for me and my little one.All I wanted was to stand on my feet as a single mother who has the sole responsibility of caring for her baby and this job is an answered prayer to those silent wishes.“You don't have to grin like a Cheshire cat younnoo… else, the people here would assume that you are one weird freak”, a voice said behind me, breaking into my thoughts.I spun around to find who it was and fortunately, it was Raymond! H

Raymond’s POVMy sleek black car pulled up at the company’s parking garage. I noticed the chaos in the air but I chose to stay unfazed.The cops were stationed at every corner, armed to the teeth.“Show off,” I mumbled as I got out of my car.I calculated my steps bit by bit as I strutted towards the detective.I flashed him a smile and shook his hand as we exchanged pleasantries.“Where is she?” I asked, my gaze darting to every corner in search of Violet. “Don’t tell me she escaped from your men?” I raised my brow. “She didn’t,” he said assured me, with a sly smile appearing on his face.“She wouldn’t let us take her unless she sees you. She locked herself in your office.“Really? She’s such a freak” I mocked, dragging my feet into the company. I got to my office and pleaded with her to let me in. “I’ll let you in if the cops don't follow suit”, Violet commanded.I promised to give her a listening ear and agreed to listen to all the gibberish she’d say for the last time.The cur

RAYMOND’S POVI sat on the empty chair under the magazine shade, a cigarette dangling from my lips as flickered the lighter, drawing a long slow drag from the smoke.“What the hell is taking him so long?” I mumbled to myself, impatiently waiting for Mike.Another inhale, another exhale, the air around me growing thicker with smoke as I tapped my feet repeatedly on the floor.My eyes averted through the bustling city, in search of him. We planned on meeting at the western park, but why wasn't he here? Was his flight delayed? Then, from the corner of the streets, I could see him. He strode like a peacock, his sense of dressing oozing with a charm that had won him countless hearts in the city, especially the ladies. “What’s up, mate?” He asked, his voice dripping in a black American accent. He stretched forth his hand for a handshake as he gaped deep into my eyes. I reluctantly extended out mine and we shook.“What took you so long?” I asked, raising my brow. My voice was husky, showi

ELENA’S POVThe rays of the sun crept down the window blinds and rested on my eyelids. I woke up to greet one of the most important days of the Lauren family; Ralph's wedding. My eyes fluttered open, only to realize the other side of the bed was empty. Raymond didn't return from the bachelor's party. I sat upright and my eyes scanned the room for nothing in particular. “Today is going to be a big day,” I whispered as I dragged my feet off the bed and into the bathroom.I turned on the shower and the warm liquid cascaded down my body, enveloping me like a warm embrace; Just what I needed to start my morning.With a towel wrapped snugly around my waist, I stepped into the bedroom, the rhythmic rustle of fabric against my skin as I slipped into my clothes signaling my readiness to join the Laurence household in the buzzing excitement of the day.From the mezzanine, I looked out over the bustle of activity below. Every servant and steward moved with purpose, their feet tapping a steady

Raymond's POV Moments after Elena disappeared into the bathroom, she resurfaced with an unusual smile tugging beside her lips. As we danced, I caught the shift in her expression. Her gaze was fixated on the floor, lost in thought. I didn't bother her with questions, certain that if she felt the need to share her worries, she would do it effortlessly.I let the musical notes carry us, our bodies moving in the wordless symphony, hoping the music would trigger a little fragment of joy in her.I watched her slip away from me and mix with the crowd even when I was against her leaving.“Nice performance with Elena, ” a voice said behind me, startling me from my thoughts.With a half cup of whiskey in my palm, I swiveled to find Ralph, wearing a smile on my face.“You stole the show,” he laughed, hitting me on the shoulder in a joking manner.His gaze darted around the corners in search of what I was oblivious to.“Where is she?” he said“Who?” I asked, placing my lips on the cup and gulp