Velia arrived at the apartment just before the sun completely set. Her hands were full of shopping bags, and she politely declined the help offered by the apartment staff. The elevator ascended, giving her time to reflect on everything that had happened that day. Velia's two objectives for going out had been accomplished. She visited Harry and paid off her debt to the loan shark. Despite what she was going through, she should feel relieved now. If only that encounter had not happened. Sandra's warnings and threats echoed in Velia's mind. Just echoes, but strangely enough, they triggered the tremors once again. Believe me, only God knows how much I didn't want to meet Lucas. Unfortunately, fate had other plans. It did not just bring them together; it bound Velia to Lucas once again. It was pathetic, but he was the only one who could support her. She was dependent on him and could not let go. Despite that, Velia was certain that Lucas would not let her go. The luxurious apartment wa

Indeed, it is normal for Velia to wake up feeling tired. Since she entrusted her life to Lucas, there has not been a truly refreshing sleep for her. Especially after last night. She had a terrible and horrifying nightmare. Not only did Velia's body feel exhausted, but her soul was also shaken. Apparently, Lucas's caresses did succeed in putting her to sleep. However, they were not powerful enough to banish the terrifying images from her mind upon waking up. “Luc?” Rising and holding the blanket to her chest, once again Velia did not find Lucas by her side. She glanced at the clock and realized it was still early in the morning. Velia put on her nightgown and got out of bed. She searched for Lucas's whereabouts until her steps led her to the kitchen. “Are you awake?” Lucas was already dressed neatly, complete with a white shirt and tie. He looked fresh as he prepared breakfast. “Yes,” Velia nodded awkwardly. “Y-you prepared breakfast.” “Just sandwiches. It's not difficult.” Luc

Ricardo entered hurriedly and slammed the door shut. His loud voice startled the deputy who was engrossed with the computer. “Vonda,” Ricardo called as he walked towards his office door. “Call Mecca. Tell her to meet me right away.” “Yes, Sir.” Entering his workspace, Ricardo quickly grabbed a glass of water and downed it in an instant. Sandra's command left him breathless. A knock on the door caught Ricardo's attention. He hurriedly sat behind his desk and exclaimed, “Come in.” The door opened, and Mecca entered. She smiled politely as Ricardo motioned for her to sit. “What's the matter, Sir?” Ricardo wiped the sweat off his forehead with a tissue and squeezed it. He tried to smile to suppress the escalating panic. “I want to ask something,” Ricardo said, hoping not to raise suspicion. “How is Velia doing?” Out of the many reasons Ricardo could have called her, this possibility was unexpected for Mecca. Confusion immediately appeared on her face as she answered. “Velia seems

Lucas was certain he would never grow tired of that sight. Specifically, in the kitchen, where a woman was busy with cooking utensils and ingredients. Velia was preparing breakfast with a casual appearance. She was still wearing last night's nightgown and had only washed her face. It was strange, but it looked charming in Lucas' eyes. The stove went off. The sound of utensils ceased, and Velia turned her body to reach for a plate, her gaze meeting Lucas at the doorway. “Oh my, Luc.” Velia was startled, but Lucas grinned instead. He took a step forward, approaching Velia, who was repeatedly patting her chest. “I surprised you.” “W-were you there the whole time?” Velia asked. “What were you doing?” Lucas simply shrugged briefly in response. His focus shifted to the contents of the frying pan. He needed to confirm what Velia was cooking, although the aroma wafting through the air had already given him a clue. “You're making fried rice.” Velia nodded, and Lucas' remark reminded he

Sharp-eyed Lucas aimed at Vlora. The secretary seemed slightly intimidated but held her ground when faced with the same question again. “Are you serious about what you said?” “I am serious, sir,” Vlora confidently replied. “I'm sure I didn't mishear.” Lucas did not say anything further. At least for the past two years, Vlora had proven that her words were never wrong. “Okay.” Vlora gave a brief nod before leaving Lucas' room. Silence quickly enveloped the room, albeit not for long. Lucas picked up his phone and dialed a number. Without much waiting, the call was answered. “Saturday?” It seemed that Lucas had a busy schedule for the coming Saturday. From accompanying Velia for shopping, having dinner with family, and meeting with colleagues. “Alright.” The call ended at the right time. The door opened again, but it was not Vlora who entered. Instead, it was Andreas who came in and immediately took a comfortable position on the sofa. “Good afternoon, Luc.” Lucas placed his ph