Aretha took a deep breath, her eyes meeting Liam's with a determined gaze. “I’ll help you,” she said, though a slight hesitation lingered in her tone. She wasn’t entirely comfortable with her decision. It wasn’t that she didn’t want to support Liam; it was just that the idea of going against Selena, her old college friend, left her feeling like a bad person. Aretha had known about Selena’s manipulative ways, but they had never directly affected her, so she had stayed on the sidelines.Though they’d drifted apart after college and rarely spoke now, the thought of siding against Selena brought some guilt. Still, seeing Liam’s hopeful expression, she reminded herself why she’d agreed.Liam’s face lit up, a genuine smile spreading across his features. Relief and gratitude was visible in his eyes, and he gave her a slight nod, clearly grateful for her support.“Thank you, Aretha. This means a lot,” Liam replied, his voice laced with sincerity. A subtle, satisfied smile played at his lips a
The men exchanged glances before one of them leaned back, his hand lingering over the cash and counting it. He looked up at Nathan with a frown. “Yeah, don't worry, we can handle the job easily.” He paused and tossed the stacks of money to the other guy beside him, saying, “But this isn’t enough for us to do the job,” the man said, his voice low but insistent. “We are supposed to take care of two people, not just one. The price you’re offering here? It's only for one.”Nathan’s jaw tightened, his eyes narrowing. His teeth clenched as he shot them a hard glare. “What do you mean, two?” he snapped. He’d only specified one target, so they had made up the second target. It seemed like these guys were trying to milk more money out of him and he wasn't going to let that happen. What did they take him for? A fool?“You greedy bastards!” he spat angrily, his voice dangerously calm. “You’re supposed to handle one person. What the hell do you mean, two people?”The second man, who had been sile
The midday sun beat down on her, as Elena exited the apartment she lived in and walked to her car. She settled into the driver’s seat, feeling the intensity of the heat radiating from the sidewalk outside. She adjusted her sunglasses and took a slow, calming breath, enjoying the cool blast of air conditioning as it began to ease the uncomfortable warmth.Then she inserted the key in the ignition. Turning the key she fully expected the engine to roar to life. But instead, it gave a weak sputter and fell silent. “Oh, come on!” she muttered, frustration in her voice and in her tone as she tried again. This time, the engine barely sputtered before quitting completely, leaving an uneasy silence around her. “This can't be happening right now.” She mumbled, pushing herself back against the car seat as she pulled a strand of hair from her face.She glanced around, almost embarrassed, as if someone might witness her struggle with the aging car. It felt like a cruel reminder of everything she’d
Nathan was seated down, contemplating what he had done, when his phone buzzed in his pocket. He pulled it out, glancing at the screen before bringing it to his ear. The voice on the other end was chilling and unemotional.“It’s done,” the man reported, his tone carrying a finality that made Nathan feel like something had twisted deep inside him, “We took care of her, just like you wanted.”Nathan didn’t respond immediately. His gaze drifted to the dull, worn-down walls of the small apartment, the silence around him feeling suddenly oppressive. He’d thought this would bring him relief, some sense of satisfaction. But instead, his chest felt nothing but heartache, guit, sadness, a sick ache building as he gripped the phone tighter.He swallowed, his expression cold and voice barely above a whisper as he replied. “Are you sure?” he asked, he was feeling bad. Nonetheless he was still hoping that they had truly done their job and took care of Elena, “You made certain she couldn’t survive?”
Liam hurried through the hospital's automatic doors, the sound of his footsteps echoing in the air. His facial expression was a mask of worry. Beside him were Cara, Luke, and Megan, each of them having insisted on accompanying him after hearing about Elena’s accident. But their reasons were different. They weren’t there for Elena, they were there for him in this tough time. Cara and Luke didn’t know Elena at all to care, and Megan, though concerned, had no real affection for Elena due to her cunning and manipulative ways. The only reason Megan might feel a hint of worry now was because Elena was carrying Liam’s child, the baby that was family to her.Nonetheless, their presence was a comfort to Liam, though it did little to ease the anxiety within him. The doctor hadn’t been very clear on Elena’s condition over the phone, and Liam couldn’t get rid of the fear that something terrible had happened. He didn’t want to lose his child, especially not before he’d even had the chance to me
Liam turned to look at Nathan. Their expressions were unreadable as the two men stared at each other. From the hostility in each other's eyes, it was clear they were enemies.Liam turned back around with a sigh. Although he disliked Nathan’s presence intensely, he decided to tolerate it for now. There were more pressing matters at hand than their mutual disdain.Nathan stepped further into the room, closing the door quietly behind him. His gaze lingered on Elena. And a storm of frustration was boiling beneath his calm facade. ‘How the fuck is she still alive?’ he thought bitterly. ‘Those bastards. Useless idiots. I should have done this myself instead of hiring some incompetent fools.’ The sight of Elena still breathing, although shallowly, was infuriating Nathan. All his carefully planned plans, the money he had spent, the risks taken now felt like it was a waste.But the wasted money was the least of Nathan's concerns right now.He feared that if Elena woke up, there was a very rea
Slipping into the room, Nathan’s eyes were fixed on Elena with a cold, predatory intensity. Not even seeing her in the state that she was in, made him feel bad for her. It was a testament of how much hatred he had built up for her, ever since the betrayal.The door clicked shut softly behind him. As he approached the bed, his footsteps were slow and deliberate. His gaze roamed over her pale face. He stood by the bed, glaring down at her unconscious body. At first, his facial expression was casual, as if he were merely observing something boring. But then, suddenly, his demeanor shifted. His eyes softened, and his brow furrowed in an almost sorrowful way. The rapid change in his emotions was unusual and unsettling. It was as though two opposing emotions: cold detachment and remorse battled within him, each fighting for dominance. Well, Elena was someone whom he used to consider family, and loved so of course he was going to be feeling bad and guilty, but at the same time he hated h
At the same time, Irene and Alvin Danvers arrived outside the hospital room, accompanied by Doctor Grant.The doctor Grant was telling them about Elena's health and the risks she could face on her way to recovery. He spoke calmly, his tone professional yet reassuring. “So far, there have been no complications. She should recover well.”Alvin Danvers voice was composed as usual, but laced with concern as he enquired“And the pregnancy? Is the baby going to be okay?”“Yes, we believe so,” Doctor Grant replied, nodding his head. “But even with all indications being positive, we can’t be completely sure there won’t be complications. It’s something we’ll need to monitor closely.”"That's such a relief, that she is better," Irene Danvers sighed, her tension slightly easing. As much as she and the Danvers family didn't like Elena, they were worried about her, because she was carrying, potentially the future heir to the Danvers empire. Irenes brows furrowed again as she asked, “What other ris
Rachel's head snapped toward her sister, eyes wide with disbelief. "Aretha, what are you doing?" she whispered, her voice sharper than intended. Her fingers gripped her chair, a flicker of jealousy flashing in her gaze. She had silently hoped that if anyone were to marry Liam, it would be her. Hearing Aretha's bold declaration felt like a betrayal. When Mr. Harrington saw that none of his daughters were objecting, he smiled in relief, "I agree to the proposal. And I don't think either of my daughters has any issue with this.” Mr. Harrington then turned his attention to Liam, gauging his reaction. When he saw the young man’s indifferent expression, a wave of nervousness washed over him. He wondered if perhaps Liam wasn’t as fond of the idea as they’d hoped and he was going to refuse. “To be honest,” Mr. Harrington continued, attempting to ease the tension, “I believe it would be in everyone’s best interest if Liam were to marry both of my daughters. They each bring something valuabl
Rachel blinked in surprise taking off guard by the question, her eyes darted toward Aretha before settling back on Megan. But she was too shy to answer that question.Aretha raised an eyebrow, unbothered. Her eyes flickered toward Liam for the briefest moment before she answered smoothly, "I suppose that's for Liam to decide, isn’t it?" Her confidence grew as she recalled the bold move she had made earlier, kissing him. Surely, that had left an impression. He'd see her differently now, perhaps in a more romantic light. She was convinced that in a situation where he'd have to choose between her or her sister, he would choose her.Megan's grin widened as she leaned back, tapping her fingers lightly on the table. “Hmm, fair enough. Or,” she added with a mischievous tilt of her head, "maybe you two wouldn't mind sharing. I mean I wouldn't mind having two sister in-laws."Rachel’s eyes widened, hearing Megan's words, her face flushing a deep red as she quickly glanced down at her lap.Ar
The Danvers Manor Dining Hall at around 8 PM.The grand dining hall was bathed in a soft light from the crystal chandelier above.The long dining table, draped in white linen, held polished silverware and neatly arranged porcelain plates. The faint clinking of cutlery and quiet conversation filled the air as servants moved to and from the table, serving an assortment of fine dishes.Mr. Danvers sat at the head of the table, joyful look on his face. On his left sat Mrs. Danvers, dressed elegantly, just like the rest of the family and guests. The two families appeared at ease, chatting and enjoying the meal as if it were an ordinary gathering, or they had known each other for a long time.Everyone seemed content. Everyone except for Liam. He sat further down the table with Megan, his posture relaxed but his mood far from it. He knew why they were here. This dinner wasn’t just a chance for two families to connect and one another. It was about marriage, his marriage.He glanced at his par
Liam frowned. He wasn’t sure if it was worth trying to argue or convince her otherwise. Honestly, he didn’t want to protest too much and risk disappointing her, she was his mom, after all. And despite everything, a part of him still sought her approval. She was his mom after all, and it wouldn't hurt to fulfill her wish.Before she got far, Irene stopped and turned to face him, her expression a mix of tenderness and authority.“You’re part of this family’s legacy, Liam,” she said, her tone firm but not unkind, she just wanted him to understand for once. “I want you to be happy, of course, but happiness isn’t the only thing that matters. You need someone who can stand by you, someone who fits with what we’re building here. Your father and I have already waited long enough for you to make that decision on your own, but it’s clear you have no intention of doing so.” Her eyes narrowed, her voice gaining a sharper tone to it. “It’s not just about you, Liam. You and Megan both have responsi
Liam’s footsteps were light against the cool tiled floor as he left Elena’s hospital room. He stared ahead, and there, near the a bench, he spotted his mother. She stood beside Aretha and Rachel, deep in conversation with the two sisters."...of course, dear, you can bring anyone else you'd like," Irene was saying, her tone as inviting as a seasoned host. "We’d love to have your whole family join us for dinner. It’s been too long since we’ve had a lively gathering at the house," she added, smiling brightly. She spotted Liam walking over towards them, “Liam agrees to it too.”Rachel’s eyes brightened with mild surprise. "That’s really kind of you, Mrs. Danvers. I’m sure our father would be happy to come along.""He certainly will," Aretha replied, her voice calm but assured. Her gaze briefly darted towards Liam, her eyes locking with his for the briefest moment before she returned her attention to Irene. "I’ll make sure he knows it’s an invitation we can’t refuse."Liam’s brows furrow
“No, they’re not dating,” Aretha interjected, her tone sharp but smooth. She moved, stepping from behind Liam until she was standing beside him, her arm lightly brushing against his. Irene’s eyes darted with surprise as her gaze shifted toward Aretha. She hadn’t noticed her before, but now she took her in fully, her brows raising with intrigue. Her eyes lingered for a moment, clearly sizing her up.“Well, now, who is this?” Irene asked, her tone filled with curiosity as she studied Aretha more intently. A smile tugged at her lips, her interest clearly piqued. “Please, tell me you’re actually dating someone this time.”“Mom, please, stop,” Liam replied, causally but not unkind. Rachel cleared her throat. “We are just friends, nothing more.” She said,Irene sighed, looking at Liam. ““I know you’re focused on work or whatever it is, Liam, but I’d love to see you with someone who makes you happy before I get too old to see it.” She didn't wait for Liam to say anything and continued on,
“Not at all,” Gibson said smoothly. “No bribing here. I’m simply asking you to ensure that the evidence is given the weight it deserves. Danvers is dangerous, reckless, and a threat to society. A man like you wouldn’t let someone like him walk free, would you?”Selena leaned forward slightly, her voice soft and deliberate. “We’re only suggesting that the truth doesn’t get buried under his resources. A fair verdict, that’s all we’re after.”The judge folded his arms, his face unreadable. “And if I refuse to be bribed!?”Gibson’s expression was still calm, however deep down he was disappointed. This wasn't how he expected this conversation to go, he thought it would be like usual, he brings a bunch of money and the judge takes it. That's how he won most if his case. “We’re simply offering you the opportunity to make the right call. The choice is yours, Your Honor.” he said.The silence stretched for what felt like an eternity before the judge snapped the briefcase shut and pushed it bac
Rachel didn’t know where exactly her suspicion came from, but the moment she noticed the reddish smudge on Liam’s lips, a thought she didn’t want to entertain crept into her mind. Was that lipstick on his side of the lips, Had Aretha kissed him? Maybe the reason she quickly suspected that, it was because she had already suspected that her sister might have a crush on Liam. There had been signs, not very visible, but present if you paid attention. For instance, ever since meeting Liam, Aretha had always been intrigued by the Danvers family, spending long hours on her phone or her devices, scrolling through articles and forums about them. And whenever Liam's name came up in conversations, her eyes would light up with an interest Rachel couldn’t ignore.But what stood out the most , and what Rachel couldn't forget, was the day Aretha agreed to testify against her own friend, Selena. Aretha had never been one to betray her circle, always loyal no matter what? Yet, for Liam, she’d mad
Did he have feelings for Rachel? Where did that question even come from? Liam was even more surprised now, he didn't think she would be asking him this question at all. Liam paused, thinking about her question. If he was being honest with himself, he actually liked Rachel, by a lot. The feelings were complicated, though, hard to pin down. He knew he liked Rachel, however he didn't want to describe that as having feelings for her, yet. “Uhm, no…” he replied, but even as the words left his mouth, he wasn’t sure he believed them. Maybe he had feelings for Rachel, or maybe not. Ever since his breakup with Karen, Rachel was the only person he had felt attracted to. Still, his mind wasn’t giving him any clear answers yet.Aretha kept her eyes locked on Liam after he said he didn’t have feelings for Rachel. A sense of relief washed over her. She smiled weakly, mischievously.“That's a relief to hear!” She muttered in a whisper. He didn’t have feelings for her sister, which meant she had a