LOGINSophia’s POV“No,” I murmur, sitting up abruptly.Just five minutes into the match, and a Chelsea player’s been handed a red card. Now 11 against 10.“No?” Alexander voices behind me as he sips wine. “Didn’t he deserve it?”“He did.” My shoulders sink with a sad sigh. Instead of leaning back against his chest, I lean forward, drop my wine glass, and reach for green grapes.We watch the match in silence. My fingers grip the edge of the seat, foot tapping against the ground because my favorite team is struggling with one man down.“Do they always have to compete even when it’s raining?” Alexander inquires as he steals from my grapes.I nod in response, munching on some fruits. Then I offer him the rest of the green grapes. “It’s always raining in Manchester at this time of the year. They have to play except it’s a threatening storm.” “Did you also see matches in the rain?” “Mmm-hmm… I’d always wear rain coats and thick sweaters.”A resounding cheer suddenly erupts from the speakers, s
Sophia’s POV‘What could go wrong?’“Everything, Sophia… or maybe you’re just being paranoid…” I murmur to myself as I follow the rose petals, all changed. Yes, I changed into the outfit. I did. I’m probably not thinking.I fidget with my French manicured nails, curving a corner that leads to the 70th floor. My steps are slow and hesitant. The coolness of the penthouse caresses my exposed thighs. The socks get just below my knees, feet buried in pink furry slides. The tiny skirt floats around my hips, covering enough. But not enough to get my mind off the feel of the soft lace underneath, which keeps thinning into nothing as I go up the stairs.My heart pounds in my ears like a warning.I left my purse downstairs in the foyer because he texted: ‘No phones. No interruptions. Just you and me.’“You’re not even twenty-four. He’s thirty-two. What could you possibly know, Dum dum?” I explain away.I rake my fingers into my hair, letting out a deep, shaky breath. “What are you doing, Soph
Sophia’s POVAren’t I so lucky?My dad is spending his entire Saturday at the factory. And when he does visit the factory, he returns home really late. It’s his favorite place to be after my mom’s bed, and spending time with me.The biggest luck, though unfortunate, is that my mom is leaving immediately after breakfast to visit my aunt Mel for a few days. She’s still unwell. I wish I could go with her, but for some reason, my mom is being vague and acting all strong on the outside, even though I know she’s worried sick for her sister. I just hope it’s nothing serious.But on the bright side of all of these, I. Am. Free! Free to spend the rest of the day with Alexander.I just need a good story to tell Jordyn. She’s not in support of going to a man’s house alone and spending a long time there. Once upon a time, I held the same belief, but… I don’t know… Alexander and I are an item now—an engaged couple. Nothing wrong with spending time together, sharing sweet kisses, and a few ‘other t
Alexander’s POVThe emergency I needed to attend to looks like: sipping whiskey on a couch, sixty-nine floors above the ground—in my penthouse, by my floor-to-ceiling window, and taking in the expensive view of the sleepless City, while listening to something… unconventional. Sophia moaning in pleasure.Her delicate sounds fill the penthouse, echoing out of the speakers in the ceiling. It sounds better than music.I twirl my drink, and the ice cubes hit the glass with soft clinks. For the umpteenth time, I lift my left hand to stare at my newest jewelry—my promise ring. It’s a two-tone gold band.‘I’m always yours, Alexander…’ Her words repeat in my head.“Alex– Alexander…” Her pleasure-filled voice floats out of the speakers, followed by a series of deep breaths, reminding me of her reaction the first time she had her teats sucked while dry humping.Filled with curiosity, I drop my glass on a side table and take off the ring to admire it. And just as I expected, there’s something e
Alexander’s POVAaron’s food company recently secured an investor for a new product still in the works. With a bubbly spirit, he swipes on his iPad, showing us his plans as if giving a presentation.I sip wine, paying close attention. Nicole elbows me.I turn to look at her, and she whispers, “How are you?”“Good.”“Sure?”I nod, holding her gaze. She wrinkles her nose, nodding as well. I can tell she has something on her mind. Instead, she smiles and continues whispering, “Congratulations on your engagement… I got you a little something. It’s over there with your pile of gifts.” She points.I follow the direction of her hand, staring at the large table, almost spilling presents and cards.“Thank you.”“You’re welcome. I got Sophia something, too… I’ll save the bigger gifts for your wedding.”I glance at her with a grateful smile.She’s smiling, but doing a shoddy job of hiding the sadness in her eyes. I dare not ask what’s wrong. “She’s so adorable.” She quickly deflects, averting
Sophia’s POVMy dress is in my grip. My heels drill into the earth as I walk and look around, squinting in the dark backyard. I turned off the lights, yet I see the large beech tree and walls that I climbed over.A month ago, I treaded these same grounds with a suitcase, running away, wanting to be free from arranged marriages and a controlled life. Thank God he caught me.I thought I was trapped, but here I am today, getting engaged, falling so hard and beautifully, wanting him and the life he offers with everything in me. My feet stop moving. The night air is so cool against my skin, reminding me that Fall begins in a few days. I rest against a wall, rubbing my palms over my exposed arms. I’m already spending seasons with him. Seconds pass as I wait. They turn into minutes. But I know he’ll show up. I just hope our absence won’t be noticed too soon.My heart is racing so fast; my palms are sweaty with anticipation and nervous excitement. I check my phone. Nothing. I keep waiting
Sophia’s POVI told him everything except mentioning the debts and my girls. It’s embarrassing.Candace is the culprit. He’s apologized on her behalf and has promised it will never happen again.But I’m not sure how to feel after learning that she’s liked him for so long and he’s been aware, yet th
Sophia’s POVMy head pounds like it’s been struck by lightning. My eyes are ablaze from too much screen time on my iPad. It’s 08:00 A.M., and I’m still in bed, adding endlessly to my cart; I’ve already gone through half of the money he gave me.Over eleven years of history and friendship. Nicole
Alexander’s POVSophia didn’t say much after the call with her mom ended. I figured she had to get home immediately, so instead of riding with her to the company, I hitched a ride with my brother-in-law and had Garvey take her home.A Master’s degree in Marketing and Communications, an honor studen
Sophia’s POVBut why is he obsessed? I muse while sipping my green juice.Maybe he’s liked me for a while. Then it must have hurt him when I didn’t call or text for almost eight months.How long has he liked me?OMG, Lewis! I’ve liked Lewis for so long. He didn’t want to jeopardize his friendship?







