On the following day, Amelia walked down to the lobby of Stephan’s hotel, her heart beating faster with anticipation. Her index finger danced over the message icon on her phone and she anxiously stared at the display screen waiting for any update from Stephan. The screen lit up, displaying a short but powerful message: Come up to the penthouse Amelia’s heart skipped a beat, and her mind was in turmoil – part of it filled with apprehension while the rest was full of optimism as she went to get into an elevator. The doors opened and she walked out onto the lush carpet, walking towards the penthouse. Amelia stood in front of a magnificent, tall door that lit up with ornaments. She savoured the moment as she released her breath. She knocked on the door, her palms sweaty and her heart pounding. She hasn’t seen Stephan since he broke and news to her. After waiting a couple of minutes, the door opened to reveal Stephan’s weary countenance. As the sun poured across his face, he

Ruby watched as Amelia walked away, her words echoing in her mind. She couldn't help but feel a sense of unease at the threat Amelia had just made. It was clear that Stephan's fiancée was not willing to let Ruby and Ethan into their lives without a fight. Determined not to let Amelia's words discourage her, Ruby composed herself and returned to the room where Stephan was waiting."Are you okay?" Stephan asked, his voice filled with concern. Ruby sighed, trying to push aside her worries. "Yes, I am, just needed fresh air."Naomi furrowed her brow "Your fiancée just threatened Ruby," she said, her voice tinged with annoyance."Well, I'll be damned," Stephan muttered under his breath, his eyes fixed on Ruby. He knew Amelia was still trying to adjust to his new reality but he won't let her scare Ruby. He could feel the tension in the room, it was like a cord pulling down their every utterance. Naomi was not going to overlook Amelia's warning.Ruby forced a smile, her resolve harden

After the dinner, Stephan escorted Amelia to her car quietly. The air was calm, the winter night sky glittered by the stars above. Amelia shuddered slightly as she enveloped herself with the warm protective layer her coat offered. When they reached her car, she turned to him with a little smile. "That went well," she said softly. Stephan nodded, his eyes meeting hers for a brief moment before he looked away."Very true, it turned out better than I expected, thanks for your support, "he replied"I'm glad I could be of help," she replied with a smile, trying to hide her happiness "Well, then good night "Goodnight and drive safely," Stephan said. His voice was laced with a hint of concern. Amelia slid into her car, starting the engine and rolling down the window. She leaned over to look at Stephan one last time before driving away, her heart pounding against her chest. She wouldn't deny how she loved him, there was this indefinable force that made her want him whenever they were togethe

Amelia hung up the call with her mother and took a deep breath, trying to compose herself. She knew she had to confront Stephan about his sudden absence from work and his newfound dedication to Ethan and Ruby. With a steely resolve, she dialled Stephan’s number.After a few rings, Stephan finally answered, sounding surprised. “Amelia? Is everything okay?”Her voice was strained as she replied, “No, Stephan, everything is not okay. You’ve been avoiding me, neglecting our relationship... for what? For them?”The other end was utterly quiet before Stephan spoke softly, “Amelia, I understand if you’re upset. But Ethan is my son. He needs me.”Amelia felt a sharp pain in her heart at his words. She was aware that she could never compete with the bond between a father and his child. “I get that, Stephan. But where does that leave us?” She mumbled, her voice slightly above a whisper, and close to tears. “Just because we aren’t romantic doesn’t mean you should treat me this way, we are bes

The private detective was paying close attention to the conversation, taking in the tension of Amelia’ 's voice. " I do assure you that I will keep the case confidential and inform you of the progress. Please send me the details as soon as you can," he replied, his tone was professional and friendly.Amelia sent a mail to him in a jiffy with all the information she had about Stephan: his schedule, his known acquaintances, and any other detail that was likely to be relevant. When she finally pressed send, a wave of combined sensations washed her?- the guilt for not having trusted Stephan entirely, the fear associated with the outcome of the investigation, and yet she firmly decided to be strong enough to prevent any future hurt.She fell back into the soft cushions like a rock sinking in a lake of calm water leaving her thoughts floating on the surface before ultimately resting into slumber. She was wrapped up in the soft cushions and warm blanket almost like a butterfly in a cocoon, t