Jessica’s POV Chloe glares at me, her hands clenching into fists, but she doesn’t move. She knows better. I watch as she slowly lowers herself back onto the chair, her shoulders stiff with barely restrained fury. Across from her, Stanley’s mother sits frozen, her lips pressed together in a thin, disapproving line. And then there’s Stanley—silent, unmoving. Exactly how I want him.I let my gaze drift over them before I lean back, crossing my legs as I smirk. "That’s better," I say, my voice smooth, controlled. "Since we’re all here, let’s talk about some changes. If you want to continue enjoying the benefits of this family, you’ll have to start pulling your weight."Chloe scoffs, rolling her eyes. "Oh, please. You know nothing about family, so don’t start acting like you’re in charge here."Her mother nods in agreement. "Exactly. You have no right to speak on family matters, Jessica."I tilt my head, feigning amusement. "Oh, but I do. I know what family means. I know what loyalty
Flora’s POV I’m almost done packing up for the day when I hear footsteps approaching my office. The air shifts slightly, alerting me to an unwelcome presence before I even look up.The agent stands at the door, arms folded, eyes sharp and observant. She tilts her head, studying me with a smirk that makes my skin crawl.“Are you okay?” she asks, her voice deceptively casual, but I can hear the undertone of something else. Something unreadable.I force a smile, straightening my posture. “I’m perfectly fine.” My voice is even, controlled. But my hands clench slightly around the papers on my desk, betraying the nerves I refuse to show.The agent steps further inside, her smirk widening. “Good,” she says, pausing for effect. “Because you never know what might happen next if you fail in this job.”I stiffen, my patience thinning. I’ve had enough of cryptic warnings and veiled threats.I meet her gaze directly, my tone unwavering. “Don’t threaten me. I’ll do what I want, and no one will
Jessica’s POVVictory is intoxicating. It tastes like the finest champagne, like a sweet melody only I can hear. I have Stanley and his entire pathetic family right where I want them. Their resistance is nothing more than an irritation,a buzzing fly I will swat away when the time comes.I lean back in my chair, swirling the glass of wine in my hand, savoring the moment. Chloe sits across from me, pretending to ignore my presence, but I can see the tension in her shoulders, the way her nails dig into her palm. Good. She should be nervous.“We’ll be visiting the event planner’s office soon,” I announce casually, lifting my gaze to meet hers.Chloe barely reacts, only flicking her eyes toward me before looking away. Stubborn little brat. She thinks ignoring me will make me disappear.I pick up my phone and dial one of the guards. “Bring the documents I had delivered earlier.”Stanley’s mother stiffens at my words, her lips thinning into a hard line. “What documents?” she demands.I
Flora’s POVThe morning sun filters through the curtains, throwing a soft glow over the room. Aurora is curled up beside me, her tiny hand resting against my arm. I watch her peaceful face, her slow breaths, and I feel a sense of calm that I rarely get to experience these days.My mother is in the kitchen, humming softly as she prepares breakfast. The scent of fresh coffee and eggs fills the air.I stretch and sit up. "Mom, I think I’ll take the morning off," I say as I walk into the kitchen. "Let’s eat out today. Just the three of us."She turns, surprised. "You’re not going to work early?"I shake my head. "No. I think we could use a little break."She smiles, clearly pleased by the idea. "That sounds wonderful. Aurora will love it."And she does. By the time we arrive at a cozy little restaurant, Aurora is buzzing with excitement, her eyes darting around as she takes in the colorful paintings on the walls and the scent of freshly baked bread. We find a quiet table near the wind
Jessica’s POVThe moment Stanley walks out the door, I pull out my phone and dial Michael. He picks up on the second ring.“We need to meet,” I say without preamble.Michael chuckles. “That urgent, huh?”“Yes. I need to scare someone.”That gets his attention. “Who?”“I’ll tell you when we meet.”I type out an address and send it to him before hanging up.As I turn around, I freeze. Stanley’s mother stands in the hallway, her sharp, disapproving eyes locked on me.I don’t hesitate. My fingers curl around the delicate porcelain vase on the nearby table. In one swift motion, I lift it and smash it over her head.She stumbles back, her hand flying to her forehead as blood trickles down her temple. Her mouth opens in shock, but before she can scream, I let out a loud, ear-piercing shriek.The maid rushes into the hallway, eyes wide in panic.“Madam! What happened?”I clutch my chest, feigning distress. “She slipped! She just,she just fell!”The maid gasps, rushing to Stanley’s mother,
Flora’s POVI walk into the towering glass building, the sound of my heels clicking against the pristine marble floor. The receptionist greets me with a polite smile, and I nod in acknowledgment before heading toward the conference room where my meeting with Mr. Rivera is scheduled.As I push open the heavy wooden door, my eyes immediately land on Senator Boris. He’s seated at the far end of the table, deep in conversation with Mr. Rivera and two other men in dark suits. The moment he sees me, his sharp gaze flickers to my wrist.“That bracelet…” His voice is low, almost thoughtful. “It looks familiar.”I glance down at the delicate silver chain wrapped around my wrist, a tiny charm dangling from it. It’s new—I had picked it up earlier that morning while out with my mom. I raise an eyebrow at the senator.“I got it this morning,” I tell him casually. “On my way out with my mom.”Senator Boris studies it for a beat longer, his expression unreadable. “It looks oddly strange,” he mu
Jessica's POV I sit in the hospital hallway, crossing my legs as I scroll mindlessly through my phone. My nails tap against the screen, the only sound in the otherwise quiet corridor. Stanley has been inside his mother’s room for a while now, and I can only imagine the dramatic little scene unfolding in there.Poor Stanley.He still doesn’t understand the game we’re playing.A doctor walks past me, and I rise gracefully from my seat, flashing my most charming smile. “Doctor?”He stops, giving me a polite nod. “Yes, Miss?”I step closer, lowering my voice. “I heard that my dear mother-in-law to be might be discharged soon. Is that true?”The doctor glances at his clipboard. “Yes. She’s stable, and we’re expecting to clear her for discharge either tomorrow or by the weekend.”I hum, tilting my head. “I see.” I pretend to hesitate before leaning in slightly. “Would it be possible to delay that?”He frowns. “Delay it?”I let out a soft, almost embarrassed laugh. “It’s just that she’s had
Stanley’s POVThe door clicks shut behind us as we step into the house. Silence stretches across the room, thick and tense. I don’t say a word. I don’t have the strength to start something I won’t be able to finish tonight.Jessica walks ahead of me, heels tapping lightly against the polished floor. When I attempt to head for the stairs, she moves fast,almost too fast,planting herself in front of me, arms folded and head tilted in that practiced way of hers.“Are you still mad at me?” she asks, voice calm but with that underlying edge I’ve come to recognize. The one she uses when she’s trying to gauge whether I’m malleable enough to manipulate.I exhale slowly. “Jessica, I’m tired. I’ve been at the hospital for hours.”“You didn’t answer my question.”I look at her. Really look at her. The woman I married for obligation, not love. Her face is painted perfectly, not a flaw out of place, but behind that pretty mask is the chaos she caused just hours ago. My mother, injured. Hit wit
Flora’s POVAs soon as I step through the door, the scent of lavender and fresh soup greets me,home. My mother’s already waiting in the living room, perched at the edge of the couch with Aurora’s favorite stuffed bunny in hand. She looks up as I drop my keys on the console."How did it go?" she asks gently, her voice laced with concern.I take a breath, forcing the calm that’s been threatening to snap. "It went well," I say, lowering myself onto the armrest of the sofa. "We both signed. It’s done now."She studies my face closely. “Are you okay?”I nod. “I have to be, Mom. For Aurora. For myself. Falling apart isn’t an option anymore.”Her hand reaches out and rests over mine, warm and grounding. “You’re stronger than you think, Flora. But even strong women are allowed to cry.”Not today, I want to say. Not now. Not until I’m alone.She straightens a bit and offers a small smile. “Aurora’s birthday is next week, don’t forget.”“I haven’t,” I say. “I’ll start planning soon. She dese
Stanley’s POVI sit on the edge of the bed, elbows resting on my knees, staring at nothing.The silence in this room feels heavier than usual.I keep replaying the scene over and over in my head,Flora sitting across from me earlier today, calmly picking up the pen, signing the divorce papers, and walking away like it meant nothing. No last words. No second glances. Not even a flicker of emotion.Just… gone.After everything we’ve been through,our history, our daughter, I paused on that. Aurora isn't my daughter yet she signed those papers like she was closing a business deal. Clinical. Unbothered.Cold.I pinch the bridge of my nose, trying to suppress the ache growing behind my eyes. When did she become like that? That woman who used to light up when I walked into a room now looks at me like I’m a stranger. Worse,like I’m invisible.And the scary part?I can’t even blame her fully anymore. Not afte
Flora’s POVThe phone vibrates on the table beside me, and for a moment, I just stare at it. I’m not in the mood for more calls, more drama, more unexpected twists. But when I see the caller ID—Lawyer Peter—I sigh and pick it up.“Hello?”“Mrs. Davis—sorry, I mean Ms. Flora,” he corrects himself quickly. “Just calling to inform you the divorce papers have been finalized. Both your signatures are required now. Can we arrange a meeting today?”I glance at the clock. It’s only just past noon. My chest tightens. It feels so… final. Even though I’ve been expecting this.“Okay,” I say quietly. “Give me a moment.”I hang up and dial Stanley. He picks on the third ring.“We need to meet,” I say, skipping past the pleasantries. “Peter called. The papers are ready.”He’s silent for a beat. “Where?”“His office.”“I’ll be there.”He hangs up.No arguments. No hesitation. No emotion.I close my eyes and take a deep breath.Maybe it’s better this way.The meeting room is too quiet. Peter’s des
Jessica’s POVMy fingers tap rhythmically on the countertop, the screen of my phone lighting up with the time. 11:03 AM. The meeting should have started three minutes ago, but I’m still here, sipping a lukewarm espresso and pacing like a general before war.My phone rings, sharp and loud, dragging me out of my thoughts. I glance at the caller ID—Delilah, the event planner.I press answer, already annoyed.“Jessica,” she begins quickly, “the team’s been waiting. You’re the one who fixed the meeting time, and—”“Pause.” I cut her off, voice smooth but firm. “I have something important to take care of.”I don’t wait for a reply before ending the call.The moment I hang up, I snatch my purse, slip on my sunglasses, and head for the car. Screw the meeting. It can wait. Michael is more important right now. Much more.I slide behind the wheel, engine growling to life. The gates swing open, and I speed out of the compound without a second glance.Fifteen minutes later, I pull into the
Senator Jones’ POVThe soft hum of jazz floats through my study as I pour myself a glass of whiskey. It’s late, but I’ve never been much of a sleeper. Too many things always need watching, controlling. Especially now.My phone vibrates against the oak desk. I see the caller ID and smile faintly before answering.“Boss,” I say smoothly, settling into the leather armchair.“Jones,” he replies, his voice sharp and cold as ever. “How’s Flora coping at the company? Is she giving you trouble?”I swirl the amber liquid in my glass, taking a moment before responding. “She almost did,” I admit. “She had that fire in her eyes a few days back. Looked like she was ready to tear the whole place down.”The boss chuckles darkly. “I told you she’s a wild one.”“True,” I say. “But I brought her back to her senses. Just a little nudge to remind her of her place, and she snapped right back in line.”“Good. I don’t want her rebellious. I want her useful,” the boss says. There’s a pause, then he contin
Flora’s POVI sit in the car, watching the city lights blur past through the window, and for a moment,I can’t breathe.Did I just do that?Did I really sit through a dinner with Stanley and Jessica like it didn’t break every nerve in my body? Did I smile? Stay calm? Keep my voice even?I did.And I didn’t just survive it… I owned it.I blink, looking down at my hands, still slightly trembling, but steady enough to clench the edge of my dress. I feel raw inside, like I’ve been skinned emotionally, but on the outside,I looked untouched. That has to count for something.I glance to the other seat where the nanny holds Aurora gently. She’s fast asleep, cheeks flushed from the night, her tiny hand curled around the edge of her bunny plushie. So peaceful. So soft.I swallow the lump in my throat.The nanny offers me a small, knowing smile. “She didn’t even stir. Must’ve been a long day.”“Yeah,” I say, voice hoarse. “For both of us.”I lean forward, tapping the glass. “Let’s go. I just
Flora’s POVIt’s almost time to leave, but my heart won’t stop racing.I pace the living room twice, clutching my handbag like it might fly away if I let go. Aurora’s dressed already,hair done in a sweet puff, her tiny hands playing with the butterfly clips in her curls.I turn to Mama. “I don’t know why I’m so nervous. I feel like this is a mistake.”She walks over and touches my shoulder gently. “It’s not a mistake, Flora. You’re just anxious. Breathe, alright? Maybe this dinner is a good thing.”I glance toward the window. It’s already getting dark.“Be positive,” she adds. “Whatever happens tonight, just stay calm. Don’t let anyone rattle you.”I nod slowly, then my phone rings, interrupting the moment.Unknown number.I hesitate, then swipe to answer. “Hello?”“Miss Flora,” a familiar voice says, low and firm. It’s the agent. “You’ll be accompanied to your meeting tonight. My men are waiting outside your house.”“What?” I blink. “How did you even—?”But the line goes dead.I
Flora's POVI stare at the file on my desk like it might reach out and bite me. My heart’s been beating too fast since I saw his name,Stanley Davis,boldly written under the “eliminate” column. It doesn’t make sense. Nothing makes sense anymore.I pace the floor of my office, my heels clicking too loudly against the tiles. I want to scream, throw something, demand answers,but I don’t even know who to direct my anger to. Senator Jones? Mr. Rivera? The agent who dropped this bombshell on my desk and vanished like smoke?God, I want to go to the senator’s house. I want to grab him by the collar and ask what twisted game he’s playing. But I can’t. I think of my mom. I think of Aurora—her little giggles, the way she wraps her tiny fingers around mine like I’m her entire world.If I make the wrong move, if I provoke the wrong man… they’ll pay the price.I sit down slowly, running my fingers through my braids, trying to breathe through the chaos. I keep glancing at the door, hoping the age
Jessica’s POVThe hospital smells like antiseptic and quiet desperation. I walk briskly through the corridor, not making eye contact with anyone. I’m not here for small talk or polite nods. I’m here to get things done. Ruthlessly.I reach the doctor’s office and knock once before stepping in without waiting for a response. Dr. Franklin looks up from his desk, startled.“Miss—” he starts, standing as if unsure whether to greet me or brace himself.I cut him off with a smile. “Sit down, doctor. I won’t take much of your time.”His nervous energy is almost amusing. I close the door behind me and walk to his desk slowly, deliberately, like I own this hospital. In many ways, I do,money talks, and mine never stutters.“I need a favor,” I say, placing my purse on the edge of his desk. “Stanley’s mother… I want her drug regimen changed.”His brows knit together. “Changed?”“Yes,” I reply smoothly. “Swap it with something… a little more effective at finishing the job. Something that will sl