KATERINA It was quiet inside the meeting hall. Both parties were present, sitting on the long table on either side, everyone inside the room holding a copy of the contract in hand. We’re half way through the contract, going through every single clause and agreeing on it before we move to the next. All the parties had to agree on, making sure we’re on the same side so that there wouldn't be future complaints about the contract.I couldn't tell how long we had been going through the document, however, I could tell that a couple of hours had passed by. I sipped on my bottled water to quench the thirst. Lucas was sitting beside me on the big table while Paula was sitting at the head of the table.She had a serious face which she always puts on while making business decisions. I released a breath, continuing to listen to the clauses and following up on the document.Another hour passed by, perhaps two or more since I wasn't following closely on the time…“Are both parties agreeing on the
KATERINA Arabella slipped from my arms and ran to Lucas, giggling and excited to see him again. He crouched to her level, opened his arms wide for Bella and she jumped into them. Lucas wrapped his hands around herso tightly, planting a kiss on her hair. He held her so tightly and protective as though he didn't want to ever let go.My lips curved into a smile as I watched the scene unfold before me. Even though Bella had no idea she was hugging her Dad, I could see the excitement and the undeniable pull between the two.A sight to behold.When Lucas and I were married for four years without a child, I always hoped that one day, we would have one but the heavens blessed us with three.I had this image of Lucas holding our baby girl in his arms, staring adorably at her, playing with her in the flower garden as I watched from the balcony with a big smile on my face. Combining her hair and braiding it messily. Playing around with my makeup kit as he tried to paint her lips and face.I fe
KATERINA THREE DAYS LATER “Please don't give me that look nanny.” I complained, finding it hard to stare at her sad face. Lucas, who was standing by my side in the living room holding a suitcase, chuckled when he heard my words.“What look?” She asked with creased eyebrows, pretending she didn't know what I was talking about.“Like you don't want me to go.” A sad smile tugged on my lips. As much as I wanted to stay with nanny one more day, I had no choice. We needed to go to Elysium city today to prepare because the merging will happen tomorrow.“You don't need to worry about me Katerina. I’ll be perfectly fine.” She said dismissively, trying to put on a smile but I could see through her eyes. The sadness. The loneliness. All of it.Heaving a deep sigh, I walked to nanny and wrapped my hands around her so tightly. She smelled fresh, herbal and flowery because of her hair shampoo.“Take good care of yourself okay? I have stocked the fridge. I made sure you have enough herbs for the
LUCASThe corner of my lips curled up into a smile as I stared down at Katerina. She was sleeping peacefully as though there was nothing to worry about despite the workload on our shoulders.She deserved the rest. She tried to fight to stay awake but she couldn't, succumbing to it. Even though her eyes were closed, I could see the exhaustion on her face.It has been a busy week for both of us, especially Katerina. She didn't have time to get enough rest because of the merging of the companies. We worked on the plan to convince the investors and board members of Madonna company.I reached for her face, brushing the brown hair strands away then tucked it behind her ear. I pulled her closer, carefully covering her with the jacket. She snuggled close, perhaps following the source of heat that came from my body out of human nature.I was quite sure if Katerina was awake, she wouldn't dare to do it. I let her snuggle to my sides and my grip around her body tightened. I wanted her to know th
KATERINA It was silent inside the office, just a comfortable silence that we both enjoyed. However, it was short-lived when a soft knock cut through the air. I creased my eyebrows, wondering who it might be since I wasn't expecting anyone. I turned my gaze to Lucas and he had the same look on his face. Whoever the person was, I was pretty sure it wasn't Monalisa because that wasn't her style. I wasn't in the mood to get into another unnecessary conversation. I asked the security guards to never allow get through the gate if she ever shows up again. “I’ll get the door,” Lucas said, stood up and headed to the door and opened it. I arched my eyebrow when I saw who was standing at the door looking all nervous. “How can we help you?” Lucas asked the lady, “I’m requesting to talk to Mrs Mackenzie. I promise I won't take a lot of her time.” She pleaded as though her life depended on it. I couldn't see her face since Lucas was blocking by his broad shoulders. Lucas turned to look
KATERINA I tilted my head to the side, pretending to be deep in thoughts. Slowly, the corner of my lips curved into a big smile.“You can keep the papers since they're of no use to me.” I shrugged without a care in the world.She clenched her hands into tight fists. My words slapping harder than I had envisioned as they sank through her thick skull which thought the whole revolved around her and she deserved everything.I used to share everything. However, this time was different. It was my turn to be mean because being generous didn't earn me anything. Not a single thing.Instead, I lost everything that I held dear to my heart.“You're right. However, I would like to correct because I think you got it all wrong. My Dad left everything under my name. If he wanted you to be part of it, he would have included you. Perhaps he figured out that you’re not worth it.” I laughed, enjoying the conversation because it was getting way too interesting.Perhaps I was the only one enjoying it beca