Flora’s POV “I know what you want Flora” “I have the answers that you are desperately searching for” I heard this cold, deep, baritone voice My heart racing, immediately I pat baby Aurora to stop crying and pleaded with one of the maids to help look after her before I went back into my room Immediately I got to my room, I shut the door behind me and closed all the windows “Micheal, what are you doing here?” I asked in a low sharp voice “How did you manage to get in?” “Is that what you are curious about or the answer to who is the father of your child?” He paused his eyes glinting with confidenceI looked at him with a surprised and desperate look “Yes I know the father of your child,” he said his voice firm and bold I was dumbfounded and confused, my mind reeled with several questions, I didn’t even really care how he got into my room. All I care about is, who the hell is the father of my child “Who is the father?” I asked him desperation laced in my voice Michael’s smile g
Flora’s POV I sat down at the edge of my bed, lost in the depths of my mind, a gentle tap on the back of my shoulder jolted me back to reality. I had been daydreaming all this while, Micheal was definitely not here, I thought stupidly with my head bowed down for a moment. I couldn’t believe I was having this stupid thought. Baby Aurora’s wails had grown louder which finally registered in my consciousness what was going on, I looked around just to be sure no one was here before. “What were you thinking, Flora?” I heard my best friend's voice laced with both concern and surprise “I could hear the sound of Aurora’s crying way before climbing the stairs only for me to meet you here lost in your little thoughts” she queried as she picked up baby Aurora and petted her “Am so sorry babe, I was lost in thought that’s all” I swept my hair back, revealing my face, which was etched with worry and concern. “What were you thinking that made you unrealized of the situation around you” Jessica
Stanley’s POV I stood tall, dressed up in my black tuxedo with my matching pants and sparkly white Nike sneakers. Even though I was in a rush, I still looked good and sharp. I felt a sense of confidence as I headed for the impromptu stakeholder’s meeting which was just called up, which I am still surprised about. For the meeting to have been called on short notice then it must really be important and urgent As I rushed downstairs, I greeted my mum and my little sister before I hurriedly left the house. My driver and personal assistant were already waiting for me by the car and I instructed them to start the movement without any delay. Upon arriving, the conference room was filled with tension as I entered quietly. Seems everyone was waiting for me because all eyes were on me as I entered. I surveyed the entire room occupied by shareholders, a mix of individuals and representatives from various investment firms, all sat down with their arms crossed and their faces etched with di
ANONYMOUS POV“Finally, my plans are getting accomplished little by little and I must say that I am impressed to some extent,” I said as I relaxed on my couch and watched one of the media publish the news from Stanley’s interview on the screen. “He looked like he was going to snap and collapse on the spot. The Funny thing is that I am just getting started with him, I would make sure he regrets being alive. Stanley is right where I want him”. The thought sent a shiver of excitement down my spine as I took a sip of my juice and changed the channel to a football match between a long rival Real Madrid vs Barcelona.Moments later, my phone rang and surprisingly the caller was one of my most trusted minions, Jessica Campbell. “Speak” I ordered immediately, my voice firm as I picked up the phone “Good day boss” she began “I believe that I have completed my part of the mission. Am I permitted to return to Canada where I came from,” she asked her voice laced with fear and worry I get the r
Stanley’s POV"Flora!" I screamed, my voice thick with rage and disbelief.She turned to look at me, her face contorted in shock, and just as our eyes met—I woke up.My breath came in short gasps as I shot up from the bed, my heart pounding against my chest. Sweat clung to my forehead, and the remnants of the dream still lingered in my mind. I rubbed my temples, cursing under my breath.It was just a dream.A damn dream.But why the hell was I still thinking about her? Why was she still tormenting me even in my sleep?I glanced at the clock. It was the middle of the night, yet sleep had completely abandoned me. With a frustrated sigh, I threw off the duvet, got out of bed, and stepped into the surprisingly bright hallway.As I walked past Flora’s room, I instinctively slowed my steps. The door was shut, but just standing there made my chest feel heavy. I hated that I still felt anything at all. It had been weeks, and yet, the hurt refused to fade.Shaking my head, I continued tow
Flora’s POVI waited.The sound of Stanley’s footsteps echoed through the hallway as he left the house. I stayed perfectly still in my bedroom, cradling Aurora close to my chest, listening intently for the sound of the front door closing.A few moments later, I heard the unmistakable roar of his car engine as he drove away.Only then did I let out the breath I’d been holding.I had been avoiding him since last night. His words still stung like fresh wounds, reopening the pain I had desperately tried to bury. I knew Stanley hated me, but to call my daughter a bastard? That was a level of cruelty I hadn’t been prepared for.I pressed a soft kiss to Aurora’s forehead. "We’re okay," I whispered, even though I wasn’t sure if I was trying to reassure her or myself.Carefully placing her back into her crib, I stood and stretched before making my way to the bathroom. I splashed cold water on my face, trying to wash away the exhaustion that clung to me like a second skin.When I finally ste
Flora’s POVI sat in a secluded corner of the restaurant, my hands wrapped around a lukewarm cup of tea. Aurora was nestled in my arms, her tiny breaths warm against my chest. I prayed silently that she wouldn’t cry, that she wouldn’t cause a scene. The last thing I needed was attention.My eyes flickered to the entrance every few seconds, scanning the faces of strangers. I couldn’t shake the feeling that I was being watched.Then, I saw him.Michael walked into the restaurant, his gaze sweeping the room until he spotted me. A waitress approached him, saying something before motioning in my direction. He nodded and made his way over, his expression unreadable.As soon as he reached me, his eyes landed on Aurora. He stretched a hand forward, but I pulled my daughter closer, my arms tightening around her protectively.Michael let out a low chuckle and raised his hands in surrender. “Relax, Flora. I’m not here to snatch her from you.”I said nothing. I simply stared at him, waiting.
Flora’s POVThe moment I stepped into the house, I knew something was wrong. Chloe and her mother are standing in the middle of the living room, their arms crossed, their eyes filled with contempt."Where have you been?" Chloe snaps, her voice laced with irritation.I exhale sharply. "It’s none of your business. I need to rest." I shift Aurora in my arms and make a move toward the staircase.But of course, they won’t let me go that easily. Chloe's mother steps forward, her eyes blazing with anger. “Don’t think you can just waltz in here and ignore us, Flora,” she spits. 'We know all about your little escapade.'"I felt a chill run down my spine as Chloe's mocking gaze met mine. 'Yes, Flora, we know all about your meeting with your lover,' Chloe sneers, her voice dripping with malice.My heart sank, and I felt like I'd been punched in the gut. “How did they find out? And what do they plan to do with this information?”Chloe's steps forward, her eyes flashing with fury. "We know ev
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