The light from the huge floor to ceiling windows had got him uncomfortable. He stood up promptly to find his phone. Noah staggered immediately falling back into his king sized bed.
He propped himself up with his pillow with a look of disbelief on his face. His eyes narrowed when he found the anklet he had given to Sophia, vividly remembering his warning to her, “Take it off at your own risk.”In a house filled with luxury, the poor girl stood out like a sour thumb. All he wanted was for her not to get accustomed to the comfortable life he had provided. Noah started at himself in the mirror. He looked pathetic. It was another night of drinking himself to sleep.Ever since his dad died, he found it really difficult to sleep properly. He had to be on meds or scotch. His head spun a little when he remembered all the terrible things he had told Sophia. The guilt engulfed him like a large quilt.He didn’t know what to do with himself. Noah shot out of bed. His head was completely occupied with images of Sophia.In a moment, he mustered all the staff that worked in the mansion. Normally when he gathered them it didn’t mean anything good, someone was getting punished. Sweating profusely and practically panting, they stood with arms crossed behind them.“Can you all relax, I just came with instructions.” Noah had to clarify. The temperature in the room had already dropped to a negative. In that moment, he remembered the fearful look in Sophia’s eyes as his staff mirrored the same expression. Noah noticed how their shoulders slumped almost simultaneously.“If Lady Sophia Milton enters this house, make sure to inform me immediately. I don’t care whether I’m in a meeting or even on top of a helipad. Do you get me?” He asked to make sure they understood him clearly.Noah wanted her back, and fast. He couldn’t bring himself to ask her back, his pride wouldn’t let him. He didn’t know how worked up he would get without her by his side. He dismissed the staff immediately.His golf clothes were pressed and carefully laid out on the bed. He walked into my bathroom to take a shower switching the temperature from hot to cold, trying hard to wash away the thoughts on his mind.All he could see was the look on Sophia’s face. He didn’t know how much of a monster he had become. ‘Was that really how she saw me? As a monster?’Noah tied a towel around his waist and walked out of the bathroom. This has never happened before, was this warm feeling in his stomach, guilt? His heart sunk to his feet.Since the day he met Sophia at the office during her interview, he loathe her. In as much as she was educated, she was clumsy and annoying. She couldn’t even try to compose herself knowing fully well she was the only candidate personally interviewed by the CEO.Her physical appearance, every curve and corner, reminded him of his ex-girlfriend who abandoned him on the alter. It was like his past had come to haunt him. He had his reasons for hiring her, first Sophia was the most suitable person for the job because of how humble she was.It was only a matter of time before she grew and fit perfectly into the position. But she had grown too much. Noah couldn’t count the number of times his business partners and colleagues had made an offer with him to have Sophia transferred to their company, he refused each time.She was a meticulous and very hard worker, and above all, she was his. He never gave her credit for anything. Even after their marriage, he would always tell her that she wasn’t good enough for him.He always played back those drunken nights when he slept with her. After his ex-girlfriend, he never slept with anyone, expect Sophia. Even Kira didn’t have the privilege of seeing him shirtless.There was something about Sophia, so different, it made him crave her more each time. Maybe George saw something he couldn’t, she was the only girl his father ever approved of for him. His marriage contract was for a limited time. All he needed was to use her claim his inheritance. After that they would get divorced.That part he kept a secret, what Sophia didn’t know won’t kill her. His father’s sudden death changed the narrative completely. But now, he was starting to regret.His father demanded he bring a wife home. George already knew his health was declining and he needed assurance his company was in good hands. Sophia was the only girl he approved of.Noah knew fully well George wouldn’t approve of Kira even with her wealthy and respectable background. He rather preferred someone of a humble background and Sophia was perfect. ‘Do I miss her?’A knock on his room door pulled him back to the present, “Sir, lady Kira said to ask if you would still be attending?” Sarah, his personal assistant explained.“What? Why couldn’t she call me directly?” he asked feeling disrespected that she could call the landline instead of his personal phone.“She claimed she could you severally without response,” Sarah explained. Noah glanced at the phone in his hand, ‘why didn’t I hear it ring?’ he asked himself staring at the numerous calls he missed. Was he that distracted? Noah faced her again. “You may leave,” he instructed.Noah made his way to the underground parking lot and slipped into his red sports car. He drove straightway to meet his girlfriend, Kira Robinson at her father’s country club. If he didn’t get there soon she’d nag the hell out of him.Immediately he got out of the car, a valet emerged almost immediately grabbing his key out of his hand. He walked through a small passage way to meet his girlfriend and some other members of their elitist group.He often referred to them as ‘insufferable bastards’ but had no other choice than to associate with them for the sake of business. “What’s good man,” Gerald, his best friend stood up immediately after spotting him. Gerald Buford was his best friend. Their parents were very good friends and business partners.“The latest orphan,” Randall Walton called. He hadn’t been long since his father passed and they couldn’t show him even a little sympathy. Noah chuckled regardless, Randall wasn’t the best with emotions and had a very strange way of showing empathy.Randall Walton was a doctor, so he had seen too much death to be moved. The Walton’s family owned the world of medicine. Randall’s father’s hospital saw George, Noah’s father through his treatment until the end.“And also the latest billionaire,” Brad sputtered. Brad Astor’s family were the law and controlled most state and national offices, it gave him a huge ego. The only reason Noah hung out with him was because his spoilt sister, Tanya was his girlfriend.His family also had connections in high places so there was no need to throw him away.Noah gave a wryly smile. No matter how upset he was, he couldn’t lose his cool, “He was still my father guys, show some respect.” They responded with an eruption of laughter. Noah gave a half smile clenching his fists tightly.“Hey, chill out you dickheads, I know you wouldn’t mind putting a bullet in your parent’s heads but unlike you some of us actually like our parents,” Savannah defended. She was practically the only voice of reasoning in the group.Savannah Windsor’s family had good military power. Apart from Kira, Noah’s girlfriend, Savannah was the only girl in the friend group. She was the smartest of them all.“So you aren’t going to say anything,” Kira pouted. As always she had to make herself the object of attention. Kira was always so self-centered. She couldn’t even bother enough to send her condolences after his father’s death. Showing up would be a stretch.“I’m so sorry,” he blew her an air kiss but that didn’t seem to satisfy her.Noah turned his attention back to the others, nothing he was going to say would make her feel better. She tugged his shirt slightly, “Noah, you’re not going to say anything,” she batted her eyelash.“I’m really sorry Sophia, I’ll make it up to you.”Until Kira’s eyes widened Noah didn’t hear the words he spoke. Why was Sophia all he could thing about, it was starting to drive him crazy. His friends shared surprised glances.Noah and Sophia stood before their stunning new home. Her company had brought their vision to life."Welcome home," Noah said, his eyes shining with pride.Sophia's face glowed. "It's even more beautiful than I imagined."Her eyes danced with excitement. "I love how the open-concept living area flows into the kitchen."Noah smiled. "Your design genius at work."Their personal touches were spread throughout – family photos, artwork, and treasured mementos. The space exuded warmth and sophistication.Sophia led Noah on a tour, pointing out the clever design elements she added. She always liked to flex when it came to her work. "And this is my favorite part – the rooftop garden."Noah wrapped his arms around Sophia. "You've outdone yourself. This is our sanctuary."Sophia's eyes sparkled. "Our forever home.""Thank you," Noah whispered, his lips brushing Sophia's ear.Sophia smiled. "For what?"Noah's gaze locked onto hers. "For creating our dream home, and for being my dream partner."S
They arrived at sesamo, an intimate Italian restaurant.Candlelit tables, soft music, and aromatic scents of freshly baked bread.Their table overlooked the serene lake. But it didn't matter where their table was, they had the whole place to themselves. Sophia's eyes widened as she took in the breathtaking setup before her. "Noah, this is... too much," Sophia whispered, her voice trembling with emotion."Not nearly enough, my love."Sophia's hands covered her mouth. "It's breathtaking. But really, Noah, you didn't have to."Noah stepped closer, his was voice low and husky. "Our relationship has never been conventional, Sophia. We've been through so much, so fast. We never got to experience those intimate, romantic dates. I'm making up for lost time.""You're making me feel like a princess."Noah chuckled. "You are my queen. And I want to treat you like one."Her eyes roamed the setup, taking in the delicate flower arrangements, the champagne chilling in ice, and the exquisite dinner
Noah and Sophia walked hand in hand into the spa. Their therapists, introduced themselves and began the session. Rachel, working on Sophia, started with gentle strokes, warming up her muscles.The spa day began with a deep tissue massage, side by side with candlelight. They worked out knots and tension, melting away stress and fatigue.The air was filled with the calming scent of lavender, and gentle music drifted through the speakers."Take a deep breath in, and out." Noah's eyes closed. "Noah, breathe into the pressure," Mike guided, targeting a stubborn spot on his lower back.Noah sighed contentedly as the masseuse's hands eased the tightness in his shoulders. Sophia's eyes drifted closed, her face relaxed, as her therapist worked out the kinks in her neck and back.Noah exhaled slowly, feeling the tension release.Rachel transitioned to deeper strokes, targeting Sophia's lower back. Sophia's body tensed slightly. "Trust me, Sophia. Let go."Sophia's muscles released, allowing
THE NEXT DAYThe post-wedding brunch took place at the mansion's sun-kissed courtyard.Soft sunlight filtered through lush greenery, candlelit tables sparkled, fresh flowers adorned the setting. It was ethereal. And then the guests started to arrive. It was shocking that they still chose to show up. Every event thrown by the Miltons either had drama or something life threatening. Laughter echoed, conversations flowed, hugs and well-wishes filled the air. Maybe that was what enticed the guests. They never knew what to expect. Tammy decided to give a welcome speech. "Today, we gather to celebrate Sophia and Noah's love. A love that shines brighter with each passing day. Sophia and Noah, two amazing souls who deserve every ounce of happiness."Tammy paused, collecting herself. "I've known Sophia for years, and I've seen her grow into the incredible woman she is today. And I've had the pleasure of watching Noah bring out the best in her."She glanced at Sophia and Noah, "These two we
The ceremony had officially begun.Noah and Sophia had been through so much they thought this day would never happen.Anticipation filled the air as the officiant walked down the aisle, setting the tone for.Next, the groomsmen and bridesmaids made their way down the aisle in pairs. Gerald looked dashing in his tailored suit. The flower girls and ring bearers followed. Addison skipped down the aisle, scattering petals from her tiny basket, while Aiden proudly carried the wedding rings on a small pillow.Sophia's proud Maid of Honor, Tammy, walked alone. Her bouquet was stunning. She took her place beside the bridesmaids. She looked happier than Sophia. Noah's Best Man was none other Randall. He strode confidently down the aisle, eyes fixed on the groom. He took his place beside Noah. Finally, the moment everyone had been waiting for arrived. Sophia emerged from the doorway with Ava by her side. Her stunning lace gown shimmered in the light, and her veil framed her smile. As they
“What do you mean the dress is going to be late?” she asked, “No, you listen to me. You're not listening to me. I can have your whole store closed before the end of the day.”Sophia placed her fingers on the bridge of her nose as Harriet kept screaming into the phone.She was fed up. Sophia took the phone from Harriet's hand. "I need to confirm that my dress will be delivered on time. Today, as promised."The voice on the other end was chipper and very dismissive, replied, "Oh, absolutely! We're just putting the finishing touches on it. We'll deliver it personally."Sophia's grip on the phone tightened. "Personally? No, that's not what we agreed upon. I want it delivered to the venue, not hand-delivered by your team.""Ma'am, I assure you, it's our policy—"“Put it on speaker phone,” Harriet whispered. “We're sorry for the inconvenience--”Harriet cut them off. "Policy? Inconvenience? You'll do what I say, or I'll make sure to share my experience with every bride, every wedding plann