Adrian got out and walked up to the door, every step heavy with uncertainty.When he opened it, he found Rita sitting quietly in the living room, wrapped in a soft blanket, a book unopened on her lap. She looked up at him, her eyes distant, wary."You're back," she said simply, her voice carrying no emotion.Adrian stepped inside and closed the door behind him carefully, like if he slammed it, it would shatter the fragile peace between them."I am," he said, his voice low. "And I'm not going anywhere again, Rita. Not without you."She said nothing, her eyes dropping back to the book she clearly wasn’t reading.Adrian walked over slowly, then knelt down in front of her, placing his hands gently over her knees."Rita," he said, "I know I should have told you everything about Sophie. I should have told you the moment we got serious. But I was scared... scared that my past would ruin the best thing that's ever happened to me."She finally looked at him, her eyes glistening with unshed tea
The soft rhythmic beeping of the heart monitor filled the room, a steady pulse of life in an otherwise tense and fragile silence. The morning sun filtered through the pale curtains, casting gentle streaks of gold across the hospital floor.Rita stirred slightly.Adrian looked up, his eyes bloodshot from staying awake all night. He had barely moved from her side, watching her, whispering apologies, regretting every moment he hadn’t spoken the truth.“Rita?” he leaned closer, his heart suddenly racing with anticipation and fear.Her lashes fluttered, slowly revealing her eyes — red-rimmed, dull, and unreadable.He smiled faintly, relieved. “You’re awake… thank God.”But Rita didn’t smile. She didn’t speak. She simply blinked, and her gaze drifted away from him, toward the ceiling.Adrian’s throat tightened.“Rita… I was so scared. I thought I—”“Why didn’t you tell me?” Her voice was hoarse but carried enough weight to silence him instantly.Adrian froze. “I… I didn’t know how. I was af
Sophie wasn't done.Not by a long shot.Ever since Adrian had stubbornly refused to leave the pregnant woman she called "trash," Sophie had been plotting.She knew Adrian’s weakness — his family.If she couldn’t get him back with sweet words or tears, she'd drag his mother into it.After all, Adrian’s mother had high standards.There was no way she’d approve of a woman she had never heard of — a woman carrying a child that might not even be Adrian's."Let’s go," Sophie urged, practically dragging Adrian’s mother and sister into her car.They drove quickly across the city to Adrian’s house, Sophie’s heart pounding with triumph.Today, she thought, she would expose Rita for good.But when they arrived, the house was eerily quiet.No Rita.No sound of life.Adrian’s mother frowned."Where is she?" she asked coldly.Sophie immediately dialed Adrian’s number with trembling fingers, trying to hide her panic.He picked up after a few rings, his voice rushed and anxious."I’m at the hospital,
Sophie stood frozen outside the hospital doors, her hands clenched tightly into fists.She could barely believe what had just happened.After all the years of loyalty, after enduring Adrian’s coldness for so long, his mother — the one person she thought she could rely on — had abandoned her without a second thought.Abandoned her... for Rita's babies.Tears of rage and humiliation welled up in her eyes.She had supported the engagement, she had tolerated Adrian’s indifference, and now, she was nothing but a discarded afterthought.Choking on her sobs, she pulled out her phone and called her father."Dad..." she whimpered the moment he picked up."I’ve been humiliated... She left me... for those... those babies!" she cried.Her father tried to calm her, but Sophie wasn't listening.The rage was blinding.She shoved the phone into her purse and stormed off down the street, not caring where she was going, bumping into strangers without apology.She was too angry to notice anything.That
Back at the city, darkness brewed beneath the surface.Mary, still recovering from everything she had been through, knew she couldn't let Linet’s lies continue any longer.After everything Linet had done — manipulating, lying, scheming — Mary had found out the ugly truth: Linet’s pregnancy was nothing but a well-played act to trap Francis and the entire family.Mary decided the upcoming family dinner would be the perfect stage to expose Linet publicly — in front of everyone Linet was trying to fool.She began gathering evidence carefully — doctor's reports, witness statements, and even a secret recording of Linet bragging to a "friend" about how her "baby bump" was nothing but a prosthetic trick for now.Mary was careful, calculating — she knew Linet was dangerous when cornered.What Mary didn’t know, however, was that Linet had already sensed the threat.Her instincts were sharp.She knew Mary wasn’t the type to stay quiet, especially after the last tense confrontation they had.Pani
Thrown out like garbage.Humiliated in front of everyone.Linet sat alone in a dim hotel room that night, staring blankly at the city lights. The shame burned through her skin like acid — but she didn’t cry. No, Linet wasn’t the crying type. She was the kind that bled inside until the blood turned to venom.“They think they won,” she muttered darkly to herself.“They think they’re so perfect...”A cruel smile curved her lips.Let them laugh now. Let them celebrate.Because when she was done, they would all regret the day they crossed her.Especially Francis.A few days later, Linet sent a calm, polite message to Francis:"Can we talk? Just a final conversation. I’ll even buy you coffee."To her surprise — or maybe not — Francis agreed.Guilt gnawed at him; maybe he felt he owed her that much.They met at a discreet little café, far from the estate’s judging eyes. Linet looked stunning — composed, almost saintly in a soft blue dress, no sign of the hellfire brewing inside her.Francis
Francis was spiraling.His father's threat echoed endlessly in his mind.If the world finds out… you're no longer my son.He could feel the walls closing in.Every whisper in the hallway, every glance from the house staff, felt heavier now — like they knew.Like everyone knew.And Linet…She wasn't staying quiet.Across town, Linet was preparing for war.She sat at her vanity, fixing her flawless makeup with steady hands, while her eyes gleamed with a dangerous light.She picked up her phone and sent a mass message to the elite social circle:"Exclusive family announcement coming soon. You won't want to miss it.Location: Dalton Estate.Time: Dinner party tomorrow.Dress to impress."Then, she called her lawyer."I want all legal documents ready," she said crisply. "If Francis tries to divorce me, I want full rights to use his infertility reports. Make it messy."The lawyer hesitated. "Are you sure you want to go that far?""I was thrown away like trash," Linet hissed. "It's their tur
Inside the hospital room, the atmosphere was light, warm, almost sacred.Adrian sat at Rita’s side, one baby asleep in his arms, the other tucked against Rita’s chest.Mr. Drake — the once cold, stern patriarch — stood by the window, hands behind his back, occasionally glancing at his grandsons with a rare smile softening his weathered face.Mrs. Drake couldn't stop fussing over the babies, cooing softly and wrapping the twins in tiny blankets she had rushed to buy.Adrian's sister was already taking pictures secretly, unable to contain her excitement at becoming an aunt.It felt surreal — like a wound that had long been open was finally being stitched closed.The Drakes — once divided, cold, and controlled by expectations — were finally feeling like a real family again.They started discussing plans for a small private welcome dinner, just close family only, to properly receive Rita and the twins into the Drake family.Mrs. Drake was excitedly suggesting decorations and baby gifts wh
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