All Chapters of Bound by debt; Freed by love: Chapter 1 - Chapter 10

Elena's POV I had grown up surrounded by luxury, security, and the warmth of family friends like the Hawthornes. My father, Charles Bradford, often spoke of Victor Hawthorne with admiration, calling him his closest ally, a partner both in business and life. Our families spent countless evenings dining together, laughing over shared successes. We shared vacations and milestones, and I never imagined that Victor Hawthorne would one day stand in my home, dismantling everything I held dear without a second thought for our family friendship.The day began like any other. I had been working tirelessly, managing my budding interior design business. I returned home later than usual to have dinner with my parents, a cup of coffee in one hand and a stack of documents in the other. But the sight that greeted me in the driveway made me freeze. Lawyers and men in dark suits streamed in and out of the house, carrying paintings, vases—anything of value.I dropped my coffee, its contents spilling ac

Elena’s POVThe glittering hall was a testament to the Host's wealth and influence. Crystal chandeliers cast golden light across a sea of well-dressed elites, their laughter and chatter filling the air. I stood with my arm linked to Adrian’s, my designer dress and flawless makeup doing little to hide the turmoil I was feeling inside.“Try not to embarrass me,” Adrian muttered, his lips barely moving as he smiled at a passing elite.I gritted my teeth, resisting the urge to snap back. The humiliation of my new reality was bad enough without adding a public scene.Adrian had insisted I accompany him tonight, not out of affection, but to maintain appearances. The Hawthorne family was negotiating a major partnership with Everhart Enterprises, the host of the luxurious dinner event, and Adrian was desperate to prove himself capable of closing the deal.“Stay right here and don’t do anything stupid. I’ll be right back,” Adrian said before walking away.I glanced around the room, my eyes sca

LUCAS POVI clenched my fist tightly in anger as I watched Elena walk away from me, again!.I had lost her, again!" Boss, the CEO of Greensted would like to have a word with you," my PA suddenly spoke up, Jolting me out of my reverie, reminding me of his presence. I nodded , still distracted by the thought of Elena as I walked towards business like men." Hello, Mr Lucas. It's nice to finally be able to speak to you!" The man, Mr Greensted greeted, his face beaming with excitement. All I did was nod and let out a tight smile.This place was becoming suffocating as a series of questions that required answers run through my head.I signalled to Alex, my PA, and he moved closer to me." Find out everything about her marriage!" I ordered, and he looked confused." Whose marriage boss?" He asked, smiling awkwardly, and I frowned at his stupidity."Find out everything about Elena's marriage, find out if she was forced, and what is holding her back from divorcing that nitwit!" I growled

ELENA'S POV It was the next day, and I didn't sleep a wink, I had cried the whole night.I stared at myself in the mirror and sighed. My eyes were swollen with dark circles underneath. I didn't wish for a life like this!I had always dreamt of a peaceful life, a beautiful marriage with the man I love and want to spend the rest of my life with.I had dreamt of having three kids, two boys and a girl, the boys would take care of their sister. I had dreamt of leaving them with my parents and going on a long vacation with my husband, enjoying the peaceful vacation full of sex , love, care, attention and every other good stuff I could think of. But then all was thrown at my face when I discovered that I had to get married to Adrian to rescue my family.FLASHBACK ***Screams could be heard as students gather around a table." Truth or dare?" Mathew asked.It was my turn now and I was confused about what to chose, I'm sure bethany is waiting for me to choose truth so she cam ask me quest

ELENA'S POV Who should I sign out for?" Can I sign out for both?" I asked the officer, but he nodded his head in a negative way, and I was left to make a choice. I stood on a spot, confused and unsure of what choice to make.Should I sign out for Lucas or Adrian, I inhaled deeply and raised my head to stare at them.Adrian was staring daggers at me, if only looks could kill, I would have been six feet underneath. He was silently daring me to choose someone else, I knew I would be in so much trouble if I did that." You are wasting my time madam! Who are you signing out for?" The officer spoke up angrily, jolting me out of my thoughts. " I'm sorry, I'd sign out for Adrian Hawthorn please " I finally made a choice, I could see Lucas's disappointed look while Adrian had a smirk of victory on his face.I took the book from the officer and signed out Adrian. I felt pain in my heart so I turned away from them, heading back to the reception. I walked about nervously, chewing on my na