Elijah’s POVI stood on the green, the crisp autumn air brushing against my skin, golf club in hand. The course was nearly empty—off-peak season had its perks, especially at a place as exclusive as this. It gave me the privacy I needed, away from prying eyes. I tapped my club against the ground, scanning the area again. My guest was late, though I wasn’t too worried. He always had a way of showing up when you least expected him.Suddenly, I caught a glimpse of movement in the distance. There he was, walking toward me with that familiar confident stride—Joe, all the way from France. He hadn’t changed much since the last time I’d seen him. Still sharp, still as calculating as ever.As he approached, I met him halfway, and we exchanged a firm handshake. “Joe,” I said, a smile tugging at my lips. “Good to see you here in the U.S. And I'm glad to know you're not too busy these days.”Joe chuckled, his grip strong. “How can I say no to you, Elijah? After everything we’ve been through befor
Elijah’s POVI sat at the far end of the long table inside the conference room with its glass walls and polished surfaces, drumming my fingers impatiently on the armrest of the leather chair.My lawyer, Marcus Hendrix, sat to my right, calm as ever, flipping through his notes, as if this was just another routine meeting. But for me, nothing about this was routine.I didn’t want to be here. Not for some pathetic attempt at a settlement. I wanted Antoine Laurent behind bars, paying for what he’d done. Every punch, every sneer, every ounce of arrogance he had thrown my way—all of it. The entitled bastard thought he could beat me up and walk away without consequence.Marcus had insisted we say yes to their request for a meeting, though. "Let’s see what they have to say and offer," he had said earlier, cool and pragmatic as always. He knew I didn’t want to settle, but he’d convinced me that hearing them out wouldn’t hurt.I glanced at the clock, every tick making my blood simmer hotter. I
Sophia’s POVIt was late afternoon and I was nursing baby Roxy peacefully in my arms when my thoughts were interrupted by the sound of the front door opening and closing. I knew that Kayla had come to pick up Reese from school. I expected the usual flurry of excitement that came with Reese returning home. But today, when she walked in, her little face was anything but bright. Kayla came in for a while, and I thanked her at once. “No problem, Sophia. But I’m really sorry I have to run. Got an important meeting.” “Oh, no worries,” I replied. “Thanks so much.”After Kayla left, Reese shuffled in, her backpack hanging low, and plopped down on the couch without responding. Her usual sparkle was missing, replaced by an unsettling silence. Normally, she would be all over Roxy, checking in on her and chatting about her day. Today, she barely glanced at her sister.“Hi, sweetie,” I called out, trying to sound cheerful. “How was school? Did something happen?”She shrugged, her eyes fixed on
Sophia’s POVAs I rocked Roxy back to sleep, I tried to keep my thoughts focused. What could be troubling Reese so much that she hadn’t wanted to share it yet? I needed to address it soon, but for now, Roxy's cries were my immediate concern.After a while, Roxy was finally settled and asleep again. I tiptoed back to the living room, where Reese was now quietly curled up on the couch. She looked more at ease, but I knew this wasn't over.It was late by the time Elijah finally walked through the door, his face tired and a bit troubled. He dropped his briefcase by the door and ran a hand through his hair.“Hey,” I said, greeting him with a weary smile. “Have you eaten?”“Yeah,” he replied, his voice carrying a hint of exhaustion. “I grabbed something on the way back. How was everything at home?”I took a deep breath, the day’s challenges settling deeply into my bones. “We had a rough afternoon. Reese was upset, and it turns out she’s been having trouble at school.”Elijah's features grew
Sophia’s POVI gripped the steering wheel tightly as Elijah and I drove to Reese's school. “I really hope they do something about it. I hate seeing Reese like this, and she really hasn’t been herself lately.”Elijah nodded, his eyes focused. “We need to get this sorted out. It’s important that Reese feels safe and valued, especially with everything going on.”We arrived at the school and were directed to the administration office, where Mrs. Parker, the head teacher, and Mr. Thompson, the school director, were waiting for us. They greeted us with concerned smiles, and we took seats across from them at a polished oak table.Mrs. Parker folded her hands in front of her. “Thank you for coming in today, Mr. and Mrs. Sinclair. We understand you have some concerns about your daughter, Reese.”I took a deep breath, glancing at Elijah before beginning. “Yes, thank you for meeting with us. Over the past few days, Reese has been very upset. Some kids at school have been telling her that having
Emily’s POVMy mind was lost in the rhythmic motions of my work, the soft rustle of fabric, and the click of the needle. I’d been working nonstop for several days now to meet the deadlines for my clients’ fashion needs. As I now listened to the steady beat of the sewing machine, it seemed to calm me down and at the same time place me in the zone. My own studio was a sanctuary for me. The sharp trill of my phone cut through the tranquility. Frowning, I glanced at the screen—an unfamiliar number. I hesitated for a moment before answering.“Hello?”“Ms. Emily? This is Linda, the nanny. I’m afraid I have some troubling news.”My heart skipped a beat. Linda’s voice, usually so calm, sounded very much on edge. “What’s wrong?” I asked, trying to remain calm. “It’s Jared. He’s developed a very high fever. I’m really sorry to bother you, but I think we need to take him to the hospital.”Panic began to engulf me. “Oh my God. Yes, of course. Take him to the nearest hospital. I’ll meet you the
Emily’s POVThe doctor’s face remained grave. “Ms. Emily, I need to inform you that Jared has a weak immune system. He’s more susceptible to illnesses if he’s not properly cared for. The fever could be a sign of something more serious if we don’t manage it correctly.”A cold shiver ran down my spine, and I felt myself struggling to breathe. “I understand,” I managed to say. Phoebe wrapped her arms around me, looking really worried. “It’s going to be okay,” she murmured, trying to be strong and brave for me. At that moment, Linda, the nanny, approached us, her face etched with guilt. “Emily, I’m so sorry. I was busy preparing Jared’s formula and didn’t notice that he had kicked off his blanket. I tried to bring his fever down, but his temperature just kept rising, and he wouldn’t stop crying. That’s when I decided to call you.”I took a deep breath, forcing myself to remain calm. “Linda, it’s not your fault. We all did what we could. Thank you for acting quickly and letting me know.”
Emily’s POVThe situation was dire, and I appreciated his offer. But as he stepped closer, his expression filled with a desperate kind of resolve, I knew I couldn’t accept his help.“Your house?” I repeated, still trying to process what he was suggesting.I shook my head firmly. “Thank you, Antoine, but Phoebe and I are fine. We’re already planning to move to a bigger apartment soon. It will give us more space, and I can set up a work area there.”Antoine’s face fell, looking very disappointed. “I see,” he said quietly. “I just wanted to make things easier for you.”“I appreciate that,” I said sincerely. But in my head, a hundred possibilities and questions were running. I certainly can’t stay under one roof with him again! No way! That would never work under any circumstances. And what about Phoebe? Also, that could be risky because it might be easier for Isabelle to have access to Jared!Antoine took a deep breath and nodded reluctantly. “Okay. I understand. If that’s what you need
Elijah’s POVAs I watched Morgana carefully, I took note of every reaction—every emotion that crossed her face. Her surprise seemed genuine, but I couldn’t afford to be careless. After all, I’d learned long ago that my stepmother was a master at masking her true thoughts when it suited her.Morgana looked up, genuinely mortified. “Why would you think that, Elijah? What would Lennon have to do with that mob?” She leaned in, her tone laced with worry. “Isn’t that the same group responsible for so many crimes here and in France?”“Yes,” I replied sharply, feeling the weight of the topic pressing down on me. “They’ve caused… a lot of harm. And they’re responsible for the disappearance of…” I caught myself before I could say more, my gaze sliding to Jared, who was happily grinning and absorbed in his latest creation—a mountain sketched onto his napkin.I swallowed back the words, feeling Sophia’s gaze on me as well, her eyes widening with silent understanding. She knew exactly where my tho
Sophia’s POVVictoria Langston’s face tightened with surprise as she glanced back at us, clearly uncomfortable. “I’m so sorry for the disruption, and if Kian made the little girl cry,” she said hurriedly, addressing Morgana with a tight smile. “Uh, I’m sure he didn’t mean to,” Morgana answered. Victoria nodded, looking worried. “I’ll just give you a call soon to discuss the rest.”Without waiting for a reply, Victoria turned on her heel and left, her heels clicking sharply against the floor as she hurried out of the cafe.I knelt down beside Roxy, pulling her into my arms and rubbing her back soothingly. “Shh, it’s okay, sweetheart. Mommy’s here. Just breathe.”Roxy’s sobs slowly quieted as I rocked her gently, her little fingers clutching onto my shirt. She buried her face in my shoulder, but she still wouldn’t say a word. Her tiny shoulders heaved, and I could feel the tension in her body as I continued to calm her.I glanced over my shoulder at my eldest child Reese, who was stan
Sophia’s POVThe following morning, as sunlight streamed through our bedroom window, I lay awake, staring up at the ceiling, the events of last night playing on an endless loop in my mind. I couldn’t shake the image of Lennon clutching that ominous envelope… or the strange woman and her little boy, who somehow felt so familiar.Lost in thought, I barely heard Elijah enter the room until he sat on the edge of the bed, his hand resting on my shoulder. “You’re up early,” he noted, studying me with a concerned expression.I managed a weak smile. “Couldn’t sleep. I keep thinking about last night. Lennon and that… envelope.” I hesitated, lowering my voice. He reached out, taking my hand in his. “Well, maybe we’ll have a chance to find out. Mom invited us for brunch at the cafe today. She said she’d love to see the kids again.”I sat up, my heart pounding at the prospect. “Maybe… maybe we could use it as a chance to ask her. About Lennon, I mean. If she’s hiding something, I think you’d be
Sophia’s POVI was trying to steady my racing heart, unable to get back to the festivities yet, when my husband Elijah approached me. “Sophia, where have you been? Everyone’s been asking about you,” he said, his tone gentle but laced with worry.I forced a small smile. “I just… needed a moment to think. But actually, I have to talk to you.” I reached out, grasping his arm, and pulled him aside into a quieter corner of the hallway, far from prying ears.“What’s going on?” he asked, his gaze intense.“Lennon,” I whispered, casting a glance down the hallway to make sure no one was listening. “I just ran into him by the restroom. He was carrying an envelope…” My voice trembled as I continued. “It had the Les Ombres Écarlates emblem on it.”Elijah’s eyes widened. “Wait—are you sure?”“Yes. I’m sure. He even hurried away when he saw me glancing at it.” I bit my lip, trying to calm the anxiety clawing at my insides. “What could he possibly want with them? And if Lennon’s involved… does that
Sophia’s POVJared squirmed in my arms, distracting me from my thoughts. I set him down, smiling as he took off again, this time circling around me in playful loops.As I watched him, my gaze drifted back to the table where Elijah was talking with Kayla, and I noticed his expression—serene but thoughtful, as if he, too, was carrying an invisible weight.Les Ombres Écarlates had fallen silent in the U.S. since Henry and Julia were locked away, but whispers remained that the syndicate still operated in France. No one knew who might be leading them now.Isabelle had remained in prison, and for all we knew, she’d been cut off from her network… or perhaps she was working wonders from the shadows, keeping her influence alive from a distance. No one could tell for sure.“Mommy?” Jared tugged on my hand, bringing me back to the present. “Can I go play with Roxy and Reese?”“Of course, sweetheart,” I said, giving his hand a gentle squeeze. “They’re right over there with Daddy.”Jared darted fo
Sophia’s POVThe restaurant, Bella Sera, stood glowing in soft, elegant lights as we approached. It was bustling with guests, laughter and conversations blending together to create a warm, inviting atmosphere. I could hardly believe a year had passed since its grand opening, during which my husband Elijah had reconciled with his stepmom.Tonight was Bella Sera’s first anniversary celebration, and for once, I felt a sense of calm and happiness surrounding us. I looked down, giving Reese’s hand a little squeeze as we stepped inside, with Roxy and Jared walking alongside us, their eyes wide with curiosity.As we entered, Morgana herself appeared, beaming as she saw us. She looked elegant, her face bright with pride, and there was something so genuine in her warmth that I couldn’t help but feel grateful. Behind her was her husband, Lennon Delmare, standing tall and grinning broadly.“Sophia, Elijah! And my little ones!” Morgana opened her arms, crouching down to embrace Reese, Roxy, and
Sophia’s POVOne year had passed. Just like that. One long, grueling year since they’d been captured in Mexico. Now, I sat in the trial court, my hand clasped tightly in Elijah’s as we waited for the final verdict.Anticipation hovered around us, every rustle and whispered breath amplifying the tension that had been simmering for so long.I glanced across the room at Henry and Julia, seated a few rows away, flanked by officers on either side. Henry’s once-sharp features were worn, his face gaunt, his hair graying and thinning.He looked hollowed out, as though the years of hiding, the trials in France and now here in the U.S., had sucked the life from him. His hands were bound, but I could still see the twitch of his fingers, the anger boiling beneath his carefully composed exterior.Beside him, Julia looked equally changed. She’d aged in ways that seemed impossible for just a year’s passing—her skin pale, her eyes shadowed and glassy, as if she’d been surviving on sleepless nights a
Elijah’s POV“Elijah,” Henry sneered, regaining a bit of his composure. “You think this is going to change anything?”I crossed my arms, blocking their only escape. “You’re right. It’s not going to change anything. But it’ll end everything.”Julia’s eyes darted to the side, searching for a way out. I could see the desperation rising in her, a trapped animal’s instinct kicking in. She looked to Henry, but he kept his gaze locked on me, his expression bitter.“You think you’ve won?” he spat, his voice laced with defiance. “You’re too late, Elijah. Everything’s already in place. You can’t stop us.”“We’ll see about that,” I said, taking a step forward. “You’re done running.”Behind them, Julian and Joe’s operatives moved in, sealing off any possible escape. Henry and Julia were completely surrounded, their backs against the wall. I could see the realization dawning in their eyes—that this was it. The end of the line.“Give it up,” Joe called out, his voice firm. “This is over. You’re not
Elijah’s POVThe bookstore in Guadalajara was hushed, with the quiet murmur of a few customers flipping through books or browsing the shelves. I sat in the far corner, half-hidden by a display of mystery novels, watching as the team casually took up positions around the room.Each one looked like they belonged there—disguised as staff, customers, a student reading by the window. I had to hand it to them; they blended in flawlessly.But under the calm, there was tension, and my heart thudded with the thrill and nerves that always came before a high-stakes operation. Today, we were either going to end this chase, or Henry and Julia would slip through our fingers once again.It made me stop and think all of a sudden. How did I come to be tangled up in such dangerous situations? A long time ago, I wouldn’t have dreamed of being a part of something like this. I would have chosen not to be in the middle of the action but simply waiting for reports and updates. But I’ve changed already… And