Mistaken Identity

7 years laterAvery flicked her gaze toward the playpen, where her twin boys, Neal and Noel were jumping and laughing, surrounded by colorful balls. She smiled softly, her heart easing when she saw they were safe and happy. They’ve had a very busy and hectic week with unpacking and trying to adapt to their new environment, and it was a relief that they could have fun even if it was for just a few hours.Turning her attention back to the phone pressed to her ear, she continued her conversation with Julian.“That’s what I think, Julian,” she said, her tone quiet but firm. “I’m at the mall to meet the realtor, and hopefully, he’ll have a house that’s a better fit for us this time.”“Good,” Julian replied on the other end. “You can’t stay at your grandfather’s estate forever. That place isn’t a home—not with your sisters around. They’re toxic, Avery, and you know it.”Avery sighed, her fingers tightening around the phone. She knew Julian was right. Her grandfather had welcomed her back a

Avery's POVAvery had been so lost in her conversation with Asher that she had failed to notice the presence of another person in her house or even when he had walked in.It wasn’t until Julian’s deep, commanding voice cut through the air that she realized they were no longer alone and she was in the arms of a man she had just met few days ago. Thankfully, Asher had released her almost immediately, realizing how far he had gone himself.Julian shifted on his feet. “I asked a question, Asher. What are you doing here?” he asked, even before she could say anything.He stood just inside the doorway, with his body protectively close to her. Julian's sharp gaze locked onto Asher with a hint of suspicion and barely hidden hostility. As they glared at each other, It was as if they were talking to each other through their minds and from the looks of things, the conversation was not a friendly one.Julian has always been protective over her and the boys, and it was not a surprise to her that h

Avery’s POVThe Wellesley estate was more than just a home to the Wellesley family. It was a grand, architectural masterpiece that had stood for generations. It was a symbol of power, wealth, and legacy.When Avery had woken up from her coma seven years ago, she had returned to the Wellesley home. But for some reasons unknown to her, she had never felt like it was home to her. Like she belonged there.She was never comfortable staying there, especially knowing how it’s occupants felt about her. After a while, she couldn’t take it anymore and had left with the boys for the states.The grand halls and sprawling gardens whispered stories of past generations, of names that held weight in high society. The towering marble columns, and crystal chandeliers hanging down from the ceiling spoke of old money and deep-rooted tradition. The Wellesley family was by no means a small family. They were well known and their influence ran wide. Wellesley publications was a media power house that was ru

Avery’s POVInside the grand ballroom, the party was in full swing as guests congratulated grandfather Wellesley. Avery stood near a table, watching them give him different sorts of expensive gifts and the broad smile that appeared on his face whenever he received their gifts.She curled her fingers lightly around a crystal glass of water which she had opted to take after remembering that she has to drive her boys back home after the party. She would never drive under the influence, especially not when her sons were in the car.The boys clung to her, Neal gripping the hem of her dress while Noel pressed against her side. They both refused to leave her sight, their earlier encounter with Vivian still weighing heavily on them.They were not scared, contrary to what others might think. She had pushed Neal earlier to find other kids and play with them, but Neal had refused, saying that he wanted to stay with her. They could sense her unease and wouldn’t leave until she was okay.Avery exh

Avery’s POVAvery eyed the cloth suspiciously, then glanced up at him. “What am I supposed to do with this?” She asked, confused to why he was giving her a handkerchief.He gave her a pointed look, then nodded toward the deep red stain on her dress, that was now looking like a permanent symbol. Like it had come with the dress in the first place.It took Avery more than a second to realize what he meant. “Seriously?” she asked, incredulous.Asher didn’t answer. He just held the handkerchief there, waiting for her to take it from his hand.With an annoyed sigh, she snatched it from his hand, muttering under her breath as she dabbed at the stain. From the corner of her eye, she caught the way his lips twitched; like he was fighting back a smirk. She really couldn’t believe that he cared about her dress when the damage had already been done.“Clean it up,” he said simply, nodding toward the stain on her dress. She frowned, glancing down at the deep red splotch marring the delicate fabric