The sterile scent of antiseptic filled the air as Rita stepped into the brightly lit hallway of the hospital's ICU wing. Her heart thundered in her chest like a war drum, echoing the fear gnawing at her insides. She gripped Adrian’s hand tightly, her knuckles white, as they approached the nurse’s station.“Antony Kirui,” she said softly, almost unsure her voice had come out at all. “He was brought in this morning after an accident.”The nurse glanced at the chart in front of her and gave a small, solemn nod. “Room 6. But he’s still unconscious. Only one visitor at a time, please.”Rita swallowed the lump in her throat and nodded. Adrian squeezed her hand reassuringly, then let it go. “I’ll wait right here,” he whispered. “Take your time.”Her feet moved, but her mind was numb. As she walked through the corridor, memories flashed before her eyes—Antony helping her carry boxes when she moved into her new apartment, defending her from cruel tongues, calling her strong when she felt weake
The room was quiet except for the rhythmic beeping of the heart monitor and the gentle hiss of oxygen flowing through the tubes connected to Antony. The dim lights cast a soft glow on his pale face, still as stone, save for the slight flutter of his eyelids every now and then—a signal that he was somewhere in between this world and the next.Rita sat by his side, her fingers laced with his, whispering softly to him as though her voice could guide him back. Lydia sat quietly across the room, still nursing her guilt but silently praying—pleading—for Antony’s return.Then suddenly, a faint twitch.Rita’s eyes snapped open, staring at his hand. There it was again—a faint, almost imperceptible squeeze. She sat up straight, her heart thudding wildly. “Antony?” she whispered urgently, “Can you hear me?”His eyelids fluttered again, this time more deliberately. His brow furrowed, as though struggling to escape some invisible weight pressing down on him.“Antony, it’s me—Rita. I’m here,” she s
The morning sun spilled gently through the windows of Charles’ penthouse apartment. Birds chirped outside, and the city was slowly coming to life. Charles was sipping coffee and going through work emails when his phone rang.He didn’t recognize the number at first, but he picked it up casually.“Hello, Charles speaking.”There was a pause, then a rushed voice came through, almost too fast to comprehend.“This is City General Hospital. We’re calling in regard to Mr. Antony… we’re very sorry, but there was a complication early this morning… he—he didn’t make it.”Charles froze.“What?” he whispered.“Sir, I’m deeply sorry. The doctors tried everything. He suffered a cardiac arrest at dawn…”“No, no—wait—what are you saying? That’s not possible!” Charles stood up, knocking over his mug. Hot coffee splashed across the table and floor, but he didn’t even notice.“He was recovering. I was there yesterday—he laughed at my jokes! You must be mistaken!”“I wish we were, sir… but I’m afraid we
The world seemed to blur around Rita as she stood in the middle of the hospital corridor, surrounded by wails and murmurs, but none of it reached her ears. Her entire being felt numb. Everything she saw and heard was filtered through the fog of disbelief, heartbreak, and sheer devastation.Antony was gone. The only person who had truly seen her—believed in her when the rest of the world questioned her worth. He had picked her up when she was at her lowest, reminded her of her strength, and stood by her with unwavering faith. And now… he had vanished. Just like that.She sank slowly to the floor beside his stretcher, pressing her forehead against the cool metal edge. “You weren’t just my friend,” she whispered through trembling lips. “You were… everything I never thought I deserved.”Charles came to kneel beside her, his face creased in sorrow. He placed a gentle hand on her shoulder. “He talked about you all the time, Rita. You… meant the world to him.”Rita let out a choked sob, her
After everything that had happened, Rita couldn’t bring herself to go back abroad immediately. The weight of the tragedy and the unanswered questions about Antony's accident kept her grounded, unable to leave just yet. There were things she needed to understand—things that didn’t sit right with her. Rita knew she needed more time, not just to grieve but to observe the complex web of relationships and power dynamics around her. She couldn’t ignore the possibility that there were forces at play that she hadn’t yet uncovered.Meanwhile, Anita, always a step ahead in the game of manipulation, had managed to hook up with James. It wasn’t out of love or attraction—Anita’s intentions were far more calculating. After James had been devastated by the loss of Antony, she saw an opportunity to rise to the top. She knew he was vulnerable, looking for someone to pick him up after the crash, and she had found a powerful figure willing to back him up. In her mind, this was the perfect way to secure
The tycoon backing him—a powerful, faceless figure—had been pressing him harder with each passing day. The messages came through encrypted lines, always cold, always clear:“It’s time to finish what you started.” “Her family must fall.” “You’ve been paid. Deliver.”James didn’t even know who this man truly was. They had never met face to face. Everything was conducted through intermediaries, encrypted emails, and burner phones. The only thing James did know was that the money was too good to ignore. Especially now. With his mother’s medical bills piling up, his own reputation sinking, and his business crumbling after Antony’s death, he was hanging by a thread. And this tycoon, whoever he was, had offered him a lifeline—a dangerous, bloodstained lifeline.The burden of that secret grew heavier with each passing hour. He’d stare into his mother’s face and wonder, Would she approve of what I’m doing? Of course not. But she wasn’t here to stop him. No one was.He tried to convince himself
The house that once echoed with Antony’s laughter now stood silent and heavy with sorrow. Every corner seemed to breathe his absence, every wall haunted by memories—his childhood drawings still pinned on the fridge, his books left untouched on the shelf, and the worn sneakers by the door that no one had the heart to move.Charles, Antony’s elder brother, was the first to drown in guilt. He hadn’t told anyone, but he blamed himself for not checking in more often, for thinking Antony would be fine after the accident. He spent most of his time in the garage now, pretending to fix broken tools when really, he was just trying to fix himself.Lydia had become a shadow of herself. She rarely left her room and barely touched her food. Every night, she sat by the window whispering apologies into the wind, hoping somehow Antony could hear her. She carried the unbearable weight of knowing her own actions may have pushed him into despair.Their mother, pale and weakened, had aged ten years in a w
Linet sat in the corner of the bedroom, her knees tucked to her chest, listening to the murmurs outside the door. Francis’ mother, aunt, and older sister were seated in the living room, voices raised just enough to be heard.“If she can’t conceive, then it’s time we consider another wife.”“Exactly. This isn’t personal—it’s about legacy. Our name must live on.”“And Francis won’t wait forever.”Linet’s heart sank with every word. The same people who had praised her grace and elegance on her wedding day were now plotting her quiet replacement. To them, she was no longer a bride—just a barren vessel.Francis hadn’t said a word. As always, he let them speak for him.Later that night, Linet confronted him again.“They want you to marry another woman.”Francis, who had just returned from what he called a "business trip," poured himself a drink and shrugged.“Maybe I should.”The bluntness struck her hard, but she didn’t flinch. “So that’s it? That’s your solution?”He gave a hollow laugh.
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