The room was quiet except for the faint hum of the machines surrounding Rita. Anthony sat beside her, his gaze never leaving her face. He had been waiting for her to wake up, to speak with her, to finally tell her everything he’d been holding back. And now that she was awake, his heart pounded in his chest as he searched for the right words.Rita's hand was still in his, her fingers gently curling around his as if she was afraid he might slip away. She looked so fragile, her face pale but her eyes bright with recognition.“You’re awake…” Anthony whispered, as though he couldn’t quite believe it.Rita nodded slowly, a soft smile tugging at her lips. “I’m awake… and I’m okay,” she replied weakly, though she still felt weak, fragile.Anthony leaned forward, his face serious as he held her hand tighter. “I’m so sorry, Rita. This shouldn’t have happened.”Her eyes softened. “You don’t have to apologize. It wasn’t your fault.”But he shook his head, his eyes never leaving hers. “It’s my fau
He had watched silently from afar for the past two days, observing Anthony’s devotion, the way he hovered protectively around his sister. But now, it was time to speak his mind.Anthony barely looked up when Harry opened the door and stepped in.“We need to talk,” Harry said, voice low but firm.Anthony turned his gaze to him and nodded. “Let’s step out. I don’t want to wake her.”They moved out to the hallway, where the dim lights cast soft shadows across the walls. The moment the door shut behind them, Harry’s calm demeanor shifted.He stepped closer, folding his arms across his chest. “I’ve been watching you, Anthony. Sitting by her side like a saint, like a man in love. And I need to ask you—what exactly do you want with my sister?”Anthony straightened, his expression sincere but unreadable. “I want to protect her. I want to be there for her and the baby. That’s all I’ve ever wanted.”Harry scoffed softly. “That’s not an answer. Don’t give me vague promises. She’s been through he
Back at the company headquarters, the atmosphere had subtly shifted.With Rita confined to a hospital bed and the family’s focus entirely on her well-being, a quiet tension brewed in the air—like the stillness before a storm. Linet and Anita had assumed temporary charge in her absence, both wearing masks of concern, pretending to be supportive and dutiful. But behind the façade, wheels were turning, fast and ruthlessly.They’d been waiting for this window—just a sliver of opportunity to execute what had long been brewing in the dark.Departments started reporting strange changes in protocols. Approvals that usually required Rita’s sign-off were being mysteriously bypassed. Confidential files were accessed under vague “executive orders.” And key clients had started receiving whispers from the inside—hints of instability, doubts about the company’s leadership.Linet’s people were acting fast—dispatching coded memos, quietly altering figures, siphoning data from the finance department. A
Martin sat alone in his office that night, the only light coming from the bright glow of his computer screens. Files, footage, call records—everything Anita had been involved in—were laid out before him like a well-designed trap that finally made sense.And then it all clicked.Linet.The pattern was eerily similar. Linet had been involved in strange side meetings, secretive phone calls, and suspicious absences. But now, the call Anita had made confirmed it. The distorted voice on the other end… Martin had heard it before. He ran it through a voice modulation program, stripped away the distortion, and narrowed down potential matches from archived surveillance data.And there it was.A man named Cyrus Muwanga.He was a known corporate predator—one who had a reputation for manipulating employees within organizations to steal confidential data, especially before high-stake biddings. He would sell the data to rival companies or use it to sabotage competitors.Martin leaned back in his cha
James stormed into the dimly lit apartment he and Linet had been using as a hideout for the past few weeks. The door slammed behind him with a loud bang, rattling the picture frames on the wall. His face was flushed with rage, his suit jacket half-hanging off one shoulder, tie yanked loose like a noose he couldn't wait to be rid of.Linet, who was already pacing the living room, flinched. “James, calm down—”“Don’t tell me to calm down!” he roared, shoving a glass off the table. It shattered against the floor, sending shards everywhere. “I told you not to get cocky! You said everything was under control!”Linet turned on him, eyes blazing. “It was under control until your stupid temper drew attention to us. You let your pride blind you! You were more interested in mocking Rita than staying sharp!”He marched toward her, jabbing a finger into the air. “Don’t you dare pin this on me! If you hadn’t dragged me into your schemes with that snake of a boss, I’d still have a job!”“You wanted
Mr. Olum nodded slowly, his face unreadable.“You remember the agreement our fathers made,” Barasa continued, leaning forward, his fingers clenched together. “Linet was to marry your son, Francis. We allowed the young ones to explore their way first… but now, I see the elders were right. Her heart can’t guide her—it’s leading her astray.”Mr. Olum sighed. “I remember it well. Francis was always fond of her. He asked me last year if the arrangement still stood. I told him it would depend on the girl's heart… but if it’s your wish now—”Barasa’s eyes flashed with resolution. “It is. I want Francis to come home. I want the marriage preparations to begin. That girl needs grounding, and Francis can offer that. He is responsible, focused, and he has never embarrassed this family.”Mr. Olum gave a quiet nod. “Then I’ll speak to Francis. He’ll be pleased. And Barasa…” he paused, “you’re doing the right thing.”Barasa exhaled deeply, his heart still heavy. “I only hope she sees that one day.”
The murmurs around the compound grew louder, a wave of whispers swelling into full-blown chatter. The villagers, invited guests, and even distant relatives watched with unblinking eyes as Francis stood still in the middle of the Barasa homestead, his usually composed face struggling to mask the humiliation boiling beneath the surface.The groom’s family stood frozen behind him, their joy turned to disbelief.Francis’s father leaned toward him, whispering harshly, “You assured us this girl was ready. Do you know what this means to our name?”Francis clenched his fists at his side. His dark brown kaftan—freshly pressed and embroidered with golden thread—suddenly felt like a mocking costume. A respected gentleman, known in town for his composure and prestige, now stood like a jilted fool before a crowd.He looked around, meeting the eyes of the elders, the local chief, and the youth from his village who had come to witness him claim his bride. Instead, they were witnessing his shame.“Li
Back at the company, Linet tried to maintain a calm and composed demeanor, walking through the hallways with her usual confident stride. She carried files, smiled faintly at colleagues, and even managed small talk with the receptionist. But those who truly paid attention could see something was off.Her eyes darted frequently toward the entrance. Her fingers trembled slightly when holding her coffee. She rarely raised her voice anymore, and the once flashy, attention-seeking Linet had toned down to plain dresses, minimal makeup, and a silent aura.At her desk, she typed mechanically, her mind far away from the spreadsheets before her. Every creak of the door, every passing shadow outside the glass walls made her tense. She’d look up in panic, heart racing, then quickly bury her face back into her screen.Her closest colleague, June, tilted her head and whispered to another:“Is it just me, or has Linet been… weird lately? She’s been so quiet, like she’s hiding something.”“Maybe it’s
Back home, after the serene whirlwind of the honeymoon and the quiet strength it had restored in him, Adrian made a decision that would ripple through the Drake family and beyond—he finally agreed to take over the family business.The announcement was made during a quiet family dinner at the Drakes’ grand estate. The table went still for a moment when Adrian, with Rita’s hand gently resting over his, looked up at his father and said, “I’m ready to carry on the legacy.”His mother gasped softly, tears immediately brimming in her eyes. She had prayed, waited, and hoped for this day—not for power or pride, but because she wanted her son to know his worth and own it.Mr. Drake, a man not easily moved, leaned back, visibly shaken by joy. “You’re not doing this for anyone else, right?” he asked, voice steady but low.Adrian nodded. “I’m doing it because I now know who I am. And I’m not afraid to lead.”The room erupted with joy. Champagne was opened, glasses clinked, and hugs passed around.
Back home, after the serene whirlwind of the honeymoon and the quiet strength it had restored in him, Adrian made a decision that would ripple through the Drake family and beyond—he finally agreed to take over the family business.The announcement was made during a quiet family dinner at the Drakes’ grand estate. The table went still for a moment when Adrian, with Rita’s hand gently resting over his, looked up at his father and said, “I’m ready to carry on the legacy.”His mother gasped softly, tears immediately brimming in her eyes. She had prayed, waited, and hoped for this day—not for power or pride, but because she wanted her son to know his worth and own it.Mr. Drake, a man not easily moved, leaned back, visibly shaken by joy. “You’re not doing this for anyone else, right?” he asked, voice steady but low.Adrian nodded. “I’m doing it because I now know who I am. And I’m not afraid to lead.”The room erupted with joy. Champagne was opened, glasses clinked, and hugs passed around.
Indeed, with envy came fascination—and fascination brought admiration that turned into unexpected blessings. What started as whispered jealousy soon transformed into public celebration of their love stories. The resort staff, charmed by the couples’ grace and gratitude, nominated them for the "Golden Hearts Getaway Contest"—an exclusive island-wide event recognizing the most inspiring lovebirds.And they won.The news was announced at a special dinner under a massive banyan tree draped in twinkling lights. As the host read their names, Rita and Adrian, along with Lydia and Ethan, stood stunned amid thunderous applause and camera flashes."For showing the island that true love not only exists but glows," the emcee beamed, "we award these couples an extended stay at the honeymoon suite, full spa access, and a private yacht tour of the secret coves."The crowd clapped wildly—some with genuine excitement, others masking their envy behind polite smiles.The rewards kept flowing.At breakfa
As the wedding festivities continued to wind down, the excitement of the day lingered in the air. Adrian and Rita, now officially husband and wife, sat together at their table, holding hands and discussing the next chapter of their lives. Their laughter and whispered words were filled with relief, happiness, and the warmth of a love that had stood the test of time and adversities.Rita leaned in, her eyes sparkling. “So, where do you think we should go?”Adrian smirked, his eyes softening as he thought for a moment. “I’m thinking somewhere quiet, away from the chaos. Somewhere we can really relax, just the two of us. No phones, no cameras—just peace.”They turned to Lydia and Ethan, who were seated across from them, both of them grinning ear to ear, still riding the wave of their own engagement. Ethan caught Lydia’s eye and squeezed her hand before joining in the conversation.“It’s hard to believe it’s finally our turn,” Lydia said, her voice warm with emotion. “After everything we’v
As Linet’s cries faded beyond the estate gates, a hush lingered — a strange blend of relief, awe, and stunned silence. But amid it all, Rita walked back down the path with the elegance of a queen who had just conquered her fiercest storm.Adrian stood at the altar, watching her with a soft, steady gaze. The way he looked at her — as if the entire world disappeared and only she remained — calmed every heartbeat around them.Rita took her place beside him, her hands slipping into his.The priest, having witnessed the chaos and the calm, nodded solemnly. “Shall we continue?”Adrian didn’t wait.He took a deep breath, lifting Rita’s hand to his lips.“Rita… you are the reason I know what peace feels like. When the world doubted, you believed. When enemies schemed, you stood by me. When I lost myself, your love reminded me who I am. I promise to never let you feel alone again. I promise to protect you, honor you, and choose you — every single day.”A murmur of soft emotion swept through th
The grand courtyard of the Drake estate shimmered in white and gold, the soft strains of violin lifting gently through the spring air. Rows upon rows of elegantly dressed guests rose to their feet as the soft chime of the wedding march began to play.And then, she appeared.Rita.Her dress — custom silk organza with hand-sewn beads that shimmered like morning dew — flowed behind her like a cascade of light. A delicate lace veil framed her glowing face, and in her arms was a bouquet of white peonies, tied with a ribbon that matched Adrian’s pocket square.The crowd gasped softly — not just at her beauty, but at the serenity and grace that clung to her like a second skin.Rita held her father’s arm, her other hand gently curled around her bouquet. Her heart raced with every step. Not out of fear — she hadn’t sensed the danger — but from the overwhelming joy of the moment. Her eyes were fixed ahead.Adrian stood waiting.He looked regal, composed, but only those who knew him well could s
The heavy door swung open.Sophie flinched, her chest heaving as a flood of light poured into the room — behind it, a cold sea of uniforms and unwavering gazes.Adrian stepped in first.His face was unreadable. Not rage. Not sorrow.Just… finality.Behind him, Rita stood — not in fear, but with quiet, fierce resolve. Her hand rested protectively on her belly, the true twins safe and far from the storm."You really did it," Adrian said quietly. "You broke into my home. You tried to harm my children."Sophie staggered back. "They were never supposed to exist!" she shrieked. “We were supposed to get married! You were mine before she came and ruined everything!”“You were never mine,” Adrian said, his voice like ice.“And you ruined yourself.”A detective stepped forward. “Sophie Collins, you’re under arrest for attempted kidnapping, breaking and entering, conspiracy, and making threats to life.”The room spun for her. “No! No, wait — wait — this isn’t happening!”They clicked the handcuf
The grand Drake estate was abuzz with activity. Silk-covered chairs, imported flowers, endless trays of pastries, and fabric swatches — everything screamed perfection. But Adrian wasn’t smiling. Beneath the elegance and sparkle, a quiet storm brewed.He paced the edge of their private garden, his eyes scanning the perimeter.“Security doubled at every corner?” he asked his assistant sharply.“Yes, sir. Discreet, but thorough.”Rita stepped onto the patio, adjusting the veil on her trial dress. She looked breathtaking — and exhausted.“You haven’t slept,” she said, crossing her arms.“Neither have you,” Adrian replied gently. “We’re close. Just a few more days.”Rita hesitated. “Adrian… are we really safe?”He walked over, brushing her cheek with his thumb. “I’ve made sure of it. But more than that, I need you to trust me.”She nodded, though her eyes betrayed her fear.Meanwhile… a Hint of SabotageEarlier that morning, a seamstress had screamed after discovering a carefully cut slit
Lydia sat in the cozy corner of a chic café, a handwritten list folded beside her coffee cup. She glanced at it for the tenth time, then sighed, half-excited, half-nervous.It had taken her weeks to narrow it down — not because she lacked friends, but because this moment felt... sacred. These women would stand beside her at the altar. They’d be there when her hands trembled and when she danced for the first time as a wife.She finally picked up her phone and began texting.First stop: Mariam’s PlaceMariam was Lydia’s childhood friend, loyal to the bone and brutally honest.When Lydia showed up unannounced with cupcakes and a white ribboned box, Mariam squinted. “What are you plotting now?”Lydia handed her the box.Inside, a silver bracelet with the initials “MB” — Maid of Honour — and a small card that read:“Will you be my person through laughter, chaos, and wedding mayhem?”Mariam blinked. Then she jumped up and hugged her so tight, Lydia laughed and gasped all at once. “Was start