Jasmine’s POVFuming with frustration, I stormed out of Gabriel's office. How dare he ask me to hand the phone to my boss when my boss clearly said that no one should disturb him during the meeting? The audacity!I swallowed my pride and gathered the courage to apologize. But instead of letting go, Gabriel's behavior was mean. He said my apology wasn't genuine enough.Here I am, stuck in the hallway outside Gabriel's office. Time drags on, as each minute stretches out like an eternity.How much longer do I have to endure this humiliation at Gabriel's hands?Seriously, what's his deal? Why does he insist on treating me like garbage? I get that we're not exactly on good terms, but his behavior is just out of line.Is it so wrong that I want to move on and leave my past behind? Why does my past keep creeping up on me? Maxwell showed up at my house yesterday, saying he's a changed person and wants to patch things up, especially now that Lexi is here.FlashbackI swung the door open and t
Gabriel's POV"It was past eight o'clock," I muttered to myself as I stepped out of my office and realized Jasmine was still around."Fuck," I whispered under my breath as I took in her beauty. I was tempted to run my hand through her hair, but I composed myself and resisted the urge. I went back inside my office."My assistant entered, 'Sir, the lady from the bank is still here.”I sighed heavily, "Alright, send her in," I instructed my assistant, taking a moment to straighten up my dress shirt, trying to appear composed.As Jasmine stepped into my office, I noticed her disoriented state and her unsteady movements. It was evident that she was tired and worn out, and I couldn't shake the guilt of knowing I had contributed to her distress.My throat tightened as I watched her, realizing the extent of the pain I had caused. Despite everything, she remained loyal, and I felt a pang of regret for what I had done.Then she slumped right onto my lap, panic shooting through me as I shouted a
I headed to the cake shop to grab my order, eager to add a sweet touch to my husband's birthday celebration. With the cake snug in the car, I was on a mission to gather ingredients for his favorite meal: a succulent steak, perfectly cooked, paired with creamy mashed potatoes and a vibrant salad.Leaving work early was a small sacrifice for the joy it promised. Anticipating the surprise awaiting my husband, I couldn't help but smile as I drove.Just as my excitement reached its peak, my phone rang, jolting me from my daydream. Answering with a grin, I heard Ava's familiar voice. "Hey there! Long time no talk," she exclaimed, prompting a burst of laughter between us. "I know, right? How have you been?" I replied, grateful for the surprising interruption.We caught up on life. Reluctantly, we said our goodbyes, but not before Ava asked, "So, where are you off to?" Chuckling, I revealed, "I'm actually on my way home planning a surprise birthday dinner for my husband. It's going to be ep
"A knock on the door woke me up, and with a splitting headache, looking around, I realized I slept on the couch. With a sigh, I moved to the door, and a man in his early twenties gave me an envelope.I thanked him, and he left.Maxwell didn't feel any form of remorse over what happened the night before. The realization and hurt fueled my anger as I went to him."Will you pretend that nothing happened the day before, Maxwell?" I asked.He looked at me emotionlessly."Where have I gone wrong? Is it a crime to love you?" I said to Maxwell."I have sacrificed everything to make sure our marriage works. You don't give me the love I deserve," I continued.He still didn't say anything."I can't do this again," I said, "I am tired and worn out, completely drained of emotions."My voice trembles with resolution. I've tried everything—talking, pleading, and hoping for change—but it's as if I'm talking to a brick wall. I don't want to continue living this way. I want to be alive and to be loved.
"I started my life afresh in Illinois, in a city besides Chicago.I got a job in a fancy restaurant that the elite visited the most, the pay was good, and tips from time to time.Sometimes my thought drifts to Maxwell; he hasn't called to check on me since I left him.Ava and I plan on going out to have fun after my shift tonight. For the first time in a very long time, I want to unwind and enjoy myself.We both freshened up and selected what to wear. We arrived at the club quickly and went inside. The bouncer was Ava's pal.Ava ordered the strongest beer, and while I chose the same, I couldn't recall how much I drank. After a few minutes, I realized I was alone.My heart skipped a beat when I turned around to see a handsome stranger standing across the busy room. Tall and confident, he oozed a mysterious aura that drew my attention right away.I felt a bolt of electricity run through my veins as our eyes briefly connected. It seemed as if an unseen link connected us.My heart was poun
How could I have been so careless that night, having sex with a stranger? How will I tell him I'm pregnant when I eventually see him? What will he think of me? Will he accept, believe, and take responsibility for the child?I tried as much as possible to be focused at work; I moved through tables, delivering orders and ensuring that clients were satisfied.Then I noticed him sitting at a corner table, staring at me with his piercing look. My back hair stood up, and the blood drained from my hand.When our eyes locked, my heart skipped a beat. His eyes had a knowing light in them as if he had been anticipating this moment.The fact that he was in my workplace adds to the air of unease that surrounds him.The tray I was holding came crashing down, and all eyes were fixed on me.We locked eyes for a few seconds, and I tried to wipe up the mess, but one of the cleaners was already on the ground to assist.I returned to the kitchen quickly, my hand on my chest, panting."Take a deep breath!
As my pregnancy progressed and I spent more time with Gabriel, I discovered things about him.He commands attention with his elegant presence and his undeniable wealth. He is the epitome of success, and his luxurious lifestyle is obvious in his extravagant residence, cars, and access to exclusive establishments. His appearance leaves a lasting impression on those he encounters, and it seems he is using it to his advantage with Ava.Ava is thrilled about my pregnancy and the fact that I found Gabriel.We decided to meet for a date a few days later. We communicate often on the phone, and he stops by from time to time at my workplace. My pregnancy isn't showing yet."I want you to look your best," Ava said.We went shopping, and after trying out a couple of dresses, we found the perfect one. It's a flowing knee-length lined dress in a rich shade of deep blue. The fabric is luxurious and lightweight, and it has a v-neckline with delicate lace trim.After shopping, we ate at a restaurant a
Encountering Maxwell again stirred up emotions I can't quite put into words. I truly appreciate Gabriel for being there when things got intense.As Maxwell stormed off, Gabriel guided me to the car and said, "Let's get you home." Amid the emotional whirlwind, I confessed, "I'm craving ice cream."He just smiled and replied, "How about we make a stop at Brown Cow Ice Cream in Forest Park?" We pulled up to the charming Brown Cow Ice Cream shop, its inviting aroma promising a delightful escape from the day's turmoil.Inside, as we approached the counter, Gabriel asked, "What flavor are you in the mood for?" I pondered for a moment, then chose my favorite, chocolate chip cookie dough. He ordered the same with a smile.We grabbed our ice cream, and as he drove me home, he said, "Make sure you get some rest, alright?"With a nod, I mumbled agreement through a mouthful of ice cream.He continued, "I'll set up security systems to protect you in case he comes back."Grateful, I sincerely said