Grandpa Benson left for his laughter club, and Luke went to drop the kids off at school. Brynne hummed a tune as she wrapped the chores. Why did this family feel like her own? It hadn’t been long since she met them, yet they accepted her readily in their lives. She smiled, remembering Liliana’s words. Did Liliana look up to her as a mother?Brynne sighed and looked around at the mountain load of work around her.There was so much to do soon she forgot to keep track of time. She had to make lunch for the kids, do the laundry, clean the kids’ room, shower, get ready for work, and also pack for herself and the kids. Why did Luke give the cleaners a holiday? Wasn’t he weird? She wasn’t even halfway through her chores when the main door unlocked, and Luke returned. “Brynne,” he yelled the moment he stepped in. Brynne was in the kitchen, cleaning the breakfast utensils, when she heard him yell. Now, what did he want? Startled, she rushed out to see him with an enormous bouquet of red ros
Luke’s phone buzzed with an incoming call from his new PA, Robert Young. “F*ck! What does he want now?” He scowled as he picked up his phone to accept the call. He walked out of the bedroom with one glance in Brynne’s direction. It had to be important, or Robert would never have disregarded his wish not to be disturbed all day. “Yes, Robert,” he barked impatiently into the phone. “I’m sorry to disturb you, sir. But there’s someone called Celine Davidson here to see you. She claims to be your wife.” “Ex-wife. Ask her to make an appointment before coming over. I’m not seeing her today.” Luke’s good mood evaporated at Celine’s sudden appearance. Why was she at his office after so many years? He was sure she had some ulterior motive behind her visit. Did she expect to grab hold of Brynne in his absence today? Then how did she know he wasn’t going? “Yes, sir.” Luke disconnected the call and walked back to the bedroom absent-mindedly. What could Celine want? After Brynne’s entry into hi
Luke marched out of his bedroom suite, still with his phone glued to his ears. “Celine’s here, Mr. Thompson. I want you to arrive immediately.” He disconnected the call and looked at his grandpa at the door. “Wait, grandpa. I’ll open the door.” Luke glanced around to see the children busy at the dining table while Brynne walked towards them to protect them from the impending storm. His grandpa stepped backward with a frown. “Who’s there?” From Luke’s stance, he had a rough idea about the person outside. “Celine.” The doorbell buzzed louder this time, and Luke opened the door, blocking the entrance and scowling at his ex-wife. “Took you long enough to open the door.” She gave him a disgusted look. “Why are you here, Celine? I thought I made it clear to you I won’t entertain you here.” His blood boiled at the sight of her and her lawyer, Jake Clayton. There were rumors she slept with him as well, but Luke didn’t care.“Then you don’t know me at all, Lucien darling. Well, I have a g
“I don’t trust Celine. We have to exercise caution, Grandpa.” Luke walked out of the reception room, his eyes searching for Brynne. The way she calmly handled the situation, as well as Leonardo, touched his heart. He had lost his sanity, but not Brynne. He wanted to thank her for being there for his son. “Something tells me this isn’t the end, Luke. She will be up to some mischief.” Luke turned to give his grandpa a knowing look. “Yes. Somehow the break-in attempt in tower 3 looks suspicious, Grandpa.” They walked out towards the children’s suite where Brynne was with them. Luke looked around to find the twins watching a cartoon on television. They looked unperturbed by the commotion around. Grandpa sat down with them while Luke walked into Leonardo’s room. He saw Leonardo studying with Brynne. They looked almost normal as if the ordeal hadn’t happened a few minutes earlier. He was indebted to Brynne for handling his children so well. Brynne looked at him with concern. Luke felt e
“Don’t worry, Brynne. I had a word with Mr. Thompson and his senior attorney, Mr. Wright. They’re on their way to the police station. I’m reaching there. Why don’t you take care of the children? Our guards are stationed outside. I think you’ll be safe here. Don’t venture out. I promise I’ll bring Luke back to you.” Brynne nodded at Grandpa Benson. His words gave her the strength to go through this ordeal. She went inside to see the children trembling with fear in the living room. The twins rushed to cling to her. “Why did the cops take Dad away, Brynne?” asked Lucas in a hoarse whisper. “Why didn’t you tell them my dad is good?” asked Liliana, looking agitated. “I told them, but they didn’t listen to me. Your Great Gran has gone to the police station with two lawyers to save your dad. I’m sure he’ll be back.” They released her and gave her a hopeful look. “Do you mean that Brynne?” asked Lucas. “Yes. Now go to your room and play. I’ll call your teachers and cancel today’s classe
Brynne trudged towards the kitchen to make breakfast. It was the worst day of her life. After Luke’s shocking announcement, she didn’t get any rest. Her mind was in turmoil while Luke slept like a log. He had even pinned her under him with a thick leg sprawled all over her. How could he sleep so peacefully when she was going crazy, thinking about her impromptu wedding? It was 6 o’clock, and she finally gave up. If they were to marry, maybe the children would skip school. With Luke still sleeping, the decision was hers now. Maybe her brain would clear up after a cup of steaming coffee. Brynne started the coffeemaker and went to check on the children. Leonardo was already up and smiled at her as he arranged his bed. “Dad came home, Brynne. I’m so happy.” Brynne helped him and smiled back. “Yes, how do you know?” “Great Gran told me. We aren’t going to school today. He said you and Dad are getting married today!” He had a wide grin on his face. “Was Great Gran playing a prank on me
The car sped through the scenic highway until the majestic Ramapo Mountains came into view. It might not be a secluded island venue, but it definitely took Brynne’s breath away. “We’ve reached!” Lucas couldn’t contain his excitement as he pointed at the pristine 18-hole golf course nestled in the heart of Hudson Valley, far ahead. “Yeah, you remember, buddy.” Luke was surprised at Lucas’s sharp memory. “Yes, you brought us here last year, Dad. I love it.” His eyes twinkled as he described what he remembered of his last trip. “I like it too. But only the flower garden and the video gaming room,” said Liliana. While they discussed their likes and dislikes, Brynne gazed at the majestic clubhouse building that would host their wedding. She had expected nothing this grand. Why was Luke making so much effort when he wanted just a fake wedding with her? His earlier admission echoed in her mind. Yes, he had framed no legal, binding agreement for her to sign. What did that mean? No, she
Brynne’s heart skipped a beat when he locked the door after the makeup artists left. “What is it, Luke?”He smiled and walked towards his luggage. “I wanted to give you something.”All the excitement left her heart. She knew what he was looking for.The legal documents which were the prenuptial and the deal agreement. She was uselessly hoping for a happily ever after with him.Her throat felt choked with emotions as she sat on the bed to support her trembling legs. She didn’t want to sign a contract with him. She wanted to beg him to give her a chance to prove her love. Would he change his mind if she confessed her love for him?Brynne couldn’t look in his direction as she picked up her veil and inspected it absent-mindedly.“Brynne.” She turned slowly to hold his gaze. Strangely, he looked beyond excited; his mood having improved a lot. She wondered what brought about the change. “These are for you.”Her gaze dropped to his hands. She frowned at the velvet box he held out to her. Did
DrakeThe rest of the day, Daniella stuck to her gang. Not once could I get her to myself. Was this why I battled with my family to return to her? Tomorrow was the last day of the cruise, and I wanted to ensure Daniella understood our situation. She couldn’t escape my family now. With Melissa out of the way, Mom had pinned all her hopes on Daniella. In fact, both Mom and Aunt Vera had already started dreaming of a future for me and Daniella.This time I couldn’t escape them.I didn’t know what the rush was all about! Why couldn’t they take it slow? None of us was going anywhere. Then why this mad rush to get me married?I scanned the corridor like a stalker. Daniella had just entered Brynne’s suite with dinner. How long was she planning to stay in? What about my incomplete kiss? Did she not care about me stalking her all the time? I was sure she knew it.Yet she feigned ignorance and stuck with her best friend.Then there was Luke’s bodyguard, Grant, guarding them with a vengeance. I
DrakeWe reached the terminal in thirty minutes, and I led them up the walkway to the ship. I was glad I could bring them back in time. I glanced at Daniella, who had been strangely quiet since my announcement on the island. She stuck to Brynne’s side to my immense frustration. Why did I return to the ship if she hadn’t missed me at all?“Thanks, Drake. I’ll head back to my cabin.” I was frustrated to see Daniella rush towards Deck 5 instead of confronting me. What was wrong with her? Didn’t she want me here on the ship? We reached the elevator, and I escorted her to Luke’s suite. “How did you find us?” asked Brynne, and I focused my attention on her.Should I tell her the truth? Well, Luke didn’t prevent me from telling her. In fact, she had the right to know. “Grant saw you get into Jamie Aukai’s ferry. So we coordinated with him. Bro is mad at you for leaving the ship this way.” I winked and left with a wave while Brynne gaped at me. Now I had a new mission at hand. I had to woo
Daniella“Brynne, I was looking for you,” I rushed after her. Yet she walked away from me in a panicked state. “Wait, Brynne. Please.” I felt annoyed with her for putting herself into this mess. Why couldn’t she just accept my help?“I have nothing to say to you, Dani. Leave me alone, for God’s sake.” She reached the suite and fumbled with the lock, but I caught up with her.“No, I won’t leave without talking to you. Don’t you realize what you’ve done, dammit?” Brynne froze and turned to stare at me. Lucien’s bodyguard tried to stop me, but Brynne asked him to leave. The guard left thankfully, but Brynne turned to confront me. “Look, Dani. I’m not in the mood to talk to you. After the way you behaved earlier, I don’t think we can be friends anymore. So, please, can you leave me alone?” She opened the door and walked inside.I followed her in and closed the door after us. Did she think she could get away from this mess easily? I fumed at her allegations. “How else did you expect me
Daniella“This is breathtaking! Do you know Lucien Sylvester owns this?” said Julia, in awe. “Yes, it’s one of the largest private islands here. Let’s occupy a villa before it gets full.” Now the place was teeming with passengers, heading towards the main building or the villas sprawled all around. The restaurants on the island filled up fast. Some booked yachts, venturing out to explore further. There was utter chaos everywhere. My gaze fell on Brynne, getting off the ship with Lucien Sylvester! A wave of jealousy hit me hard this time. How was the boss still with her? Why hadn’t he disappeared like his cousin did? I was sure now Drake had returned home with Melissa last night. A Ferrari stopped before them, and Luke ushered her into it. I tried to gulp the insult down. Brynne acted as if I were her enemy rather than her best friend. Maybe once Lucien Sylvester dumped her, she would fall from her high pedestal and come to her senses. As the car sped away, the boys appeared from
Daniella He smiled, moving his delicious lips over mine while his hands roamed through my hair slowly. But the gentleness was momentary. The moment I relaxed into his touch and relished his minty taste, he took over. His mouth ravished me with so much passion, it robbed me of my senses. I was so adrift in my ocean of ecstasy that I had no idea when he lowered me onto the sofa with his lips still fused with mine. “I want to burn with you!” he hissed, releasing my lips momentarily for breath before smashing them back again to mine. I kissed him back, giving vent to the heated lust that ravished every cell in my body. The need was so intense, it took control of my senses. His lips were warm, and so was his skin. I could do this all night and yet not get enough of him! He groaned against my mouth, his free hand finding my exposed skin at my waist where the top hitched. A gasp escaped my lips as I felt his rough hands stroking the skin on my waist and abdomen. Heat pooled between my l
Daniella “Let’s make the most of our situation. The date continues!” Drake announced, rising and pulling me up with him.There was a tap on the door, and I frowned. “Are you expecting someone?” He shook his head, frowning deeply. Then he smiled, remembering something. “It should be our dinner. I opted for room service.” I released the breath I was holding. After his mom’s call, I seriously thought for once she was waiting outside to grab me by my neck! Drake accepted the food tray and locked the door. The sight of food made my mouth water. After a hectic day, I had no energy left to go out to eat. “Come on, help yourself. Or do you expect me to feed you?” He winked as he carried the food to the table. “I would love that!” I winked back, surprising him. “I see!” He sat at the table and patted his lap. “Sit and I’ll feed you!” His eyes sparkled as he challenged me, waiting for me to rise to the bait.My heart pounded in my chest. I wanted to accept his offer, but strangely, shyne
DrakeI commiserated with Daniella on the dreadful situation we were in. Although it gave me a strange thrill, I couldn’t express it in front of her. “Who’s Jake? I saw you reacting to the name!” Ever since I had heard the name, I had been dying of curiosity. I wondered if he was her ex. From Daniella’s conversation with her mom, I could gauge her nature well. She had the same notorious reputation as I did. It didn’t deter me from wanting her. Who wanted an inexperienced virgin? It made me want to know her better. I couldn’t imagine how Daniella would be in bed. But I had to gain her trust first. She wasn’t one I could easily lure into having se* with me. “Do you have to remind me of him?” She groaned instead of giving me a straight answer. ‘Well, what did you expect, Drake?’ taunted my inner mind. But I wasn’t giving up. “Still, I need to know if I’m going to be a part of your future. Is he your ex?” “Hell, no. Jake’s my thirty-five-year-old neighbor who’s dying to marry me. He
DaniellaBefore my body could react to his announcement, my phone buzzed with an incoming call from my mom. Startled, I almost jumped! Couldn’t Mom find another time to call? I was about to satisfy my urges and get kissed by the hot creature eyeing me like a piece of candy!“Your mom,” he reminded me, eyeing my phone as if I didn’t know that already. “Aren’t you taking her call?”I panicked. “No, she’ll know I’m with a guy! Her sixth sense is too strong! I can’t risk it.” The phone stopped buzzing, and I heaved a sigh of relief. But the magical moment was broken, and we just quietly cleared our lunch. Yet I couldn’t relax. I knew Mom’s nature. If she called once, she would do so repeatedly until she spoke to me.“So, what do you want to do now? Play twenty questions or rest?” We flopped onto the bed when my phone buzzed again.“Mom won’t let this go. I need to take this call. So shh, not a sound! You aren’t here. Get it?” I glared at him to force him to agree. What if he gave himself
Daniella I tried to block my ears to his silly banter with Mrs. Griffin. If we were to act as a married couple, these shouldn’t affect me, right? Yet it did. Coz this was uncharted territory, and all we shared was a kiss and a horse ride. “Okay, let’s start, everyone!” said Mrs. Griffin, walking away. Drake leaned in towards me, his eyes dancing with excitement. I wondered what he was so excited about! Me cooking or him watching me cook! “Make it finger-lickin' good! I’ll be watching you!” He turned to go, but I grabbed his hand. “Where do you think you’re going? Stay and help.” I released his hand and shoved the whole chicken towards him. “Massage the oil all over.” He gave me a lost look. “Are you sure?” I nodded and set about preparing the vegetables and ranch dressing. We were making grilled chicken in Wild West Sauce to start with. Although it was a very basic recipe, I was making the sauce for the first time. Mrs. Griffin yelled out her instructions while we struggled to