Sarah
To calm down, I avoid dwelling too much on what I just heard—about Megan's return.
After I attempted to refocus on the housework, a couple of hours later, Mrs. Thompson's daughter passed by, accompanied by three children who dashed across the tiled floor, leaving traces of dirt on the couch. After a brief snack, they all departed.
A glance at the clock revealed it was already two o'clock. The ladies concluded their game, leaving behind a trail of orange peels, biscuit wrappers, and used cups—a mess they appeared unbothered by leaving behind.
Exiting Serenity Pines Estate one by one, my mother-in-law turned to me, leaving a reminder, "Oh, by the way, Philip asked me to remind you about tonight's dinner at the Heritage Harvest Hotel. Don't forget!" With that final message, she turned away and approached the waiting black Mercedes-Benz S-Class, where a driver stood by.
A spark of excitement ignited within me. Today marks my anniversary with Philip, and I couldn't shake the thought that a surprise celebration might await us at the hotel.
As the car drove away, I smiled and waved, observing the gradual departure of people from the driveway. Then, I spotted two trucks loaded with equipment not far off. Someone was moving into the villa adjacent to ours. Although I didn't linger on the sight, I mentally noted it before heading indoors.
The blast of hot air escaped my lips as I confronted the mess awaiting my attention. There was no avoiding it; I had to tidy up before heading to the Heritage Harvest Hotel, as Philip was adamant about maintaining order.
***
My pace quickened as I approached the hotel restaurant, my heart pounding with nervous anticipation. Thirty minutes behind schedule, I had rushed to ensure Philip wouldn't discover the stain left on the couch by a kid guest.
"Excuse me, where is the hotel restaurant?" I inquired of a passing staff member, a sense of urgency coloring my tone.
"Just turn right there, ma'am!" she promptly directed.
Following her instructions, I barely stepped into the hallway before spotting Philip and Megan outside the restaurant. Instinctively, I retreated behind a nearby wall, concealing myself from their view.
Their conversation seemed intense, Philip's demeanor stoic as he presented the box I had glimpsed the night before. A mix of surprise and delight adorned Megan's features as she accepted the necklace from Philip's hands, allowing him to clasp it around her neck.
A surge of panic seized me, my hand instinctively lurching towards my chest, fingers coiling tightly around my pounding heart. Waves of tremors convulsed through my body as the stark truth pierced my consciousness like a dagger in the dark.
The necklace wasn't meant for me.
Nor was this gathering.
It was all for Megan's return.
Unseen tears cascaded down my cheeks, silent witnesses to the crushing weight of understanding that engulfed me. With a heavy, defeated exhale, I turned away, feeling like I had lost a gamble of the heart.
'Sarah, what more could you possibly be hoping for? You've known all along that Philip and Megan are meant to be together.'
My chest constricted painfully, making it difficult to draw in a breath. Sarah's presence loomed large, casting a shadow over our marriage.
My acquaintance with Philip began when I was just eighteen. I was introduced to him through his half-sister Jane, who was my college classmate and closest friend. Jane, the product of Mr. Cornell's extramarital affairs, had tragically lost her mother at a young age.
Jane and I attended Crestwood University together, frequently utilizing their mansion as a study spot and, admittedly, sneaking glances at Philip whenever I could.
The crushing blow came when I was nineteen, learning that Philip was set to marry Megan. However, fate intervened cruelly on their wedding day when Megan eloped with another man abroad, leaving Philip at the altar.
"This is your fault! Your actions led to Megan leaving today! What are we going to do now? It's embarrassing to have investors and Luminary Productions supporters waiting outside!" Mr. Cornell's voice echoed down the hallway as he reprimanded Philip.
"We need to find a replacement bride immediately! I can't face my business partners empty-handed! Take action!" his father demanded once more.
After a brief moment of hesitation, I knocked on the door gently despite it being slightly open. Gathering my courage, I boldly decided to offer myself to Philip as his bride.
His attraction to me was intense during my youthful naivety. I was so enamored with Philip that I would sacrifice my youth for him. Becoming his wife felt like a fair trade-off, a substitute for Megan in his life.
For an excruciating three years, I clung to the hope that Philip would finally reciprocate the boundless love swelling within me, growing more fervent with each passing day! Does he know the sacrifices I've endured throughout these three years of marriage?
Yet, amidst my role as a wife, I didn't give up on my studies completely. I secretly took online classes, which Crestwood University kindly offered to me. I focused on Advanced Programming, keeping it a secret because I didn't want any trouble from Mrs. Cornell. She believed I should only concentrate on taking care of Philip. That's also why I decided not to hire a maid.
Lost in thought, the wind's chill seeping into my skin as I walked along the road.
My phone rang, snapping me out of my thoughts. I thought it might be Philip asking where I was, but it was Jane calling. She is currently in London for training, while I remain in Highland Hills City to fulfill my role as Philip's wife. Without Jane, I lack someone to confide in about my struggles.
I hurriedly wiped away my tears before answering with a forced, cheerful tone.
"Bestie!"
"Happy wedding anniversary!" she cheerfully greeted me over the phone.
"Thank you," I managed, but tears welled up once more.
I am writhing in pain. My best friend remembered my anniversary with her brother, yet Philip seemed oblivious to my absence at the restaurant. I fought back tears, questioning if he even noticed.
"I miss you so much!" Jane's enthusiasm on the other end intensified the ache in my chest.
"I-I miss you too! I wish you were here so I could hug you tightly," I said, my voice trembling with suppressed sadness.
"Aw… How are you?" Jane's concern offered solace.
How am I, really? I am not okay!
But I don't want to burden my friend abroad. I need to overcome this challenge on my own, without worrying her about my marital struggles, even if she is Philip's sister.
"I'm… fine," I replied to Jane.
"I'll go home after the exam! We'll see each other soon! I have to go! I'm feeling sleepy. Enjoy your night with Philip!" Jane bid me goodbye.
Tears welled in my eyes, blurring my vision as I ended the call. My cheeks were drenched with the weight of profound sadness. With a trembling hand, I composed myself, fighting back the overwhelming tide of tears threatening to engulf me. The ominous sky above seemed to echo my turmoil, threatening to release its torrent of tears. I knew I had to get home, bracing myself against the impending storm both outside and within.
Just as I wiped my damp cheeks, a van stopped before me, its door sliding open. I couldn't react fast enough as two men swiftly grabbed me by both arms.
"Ahhh!" I desperately looked around at passing vehicles, hoping for help.
Another man pressed a wet cloth against my mouth. A potent smell invaded my nostrils, and my strength waned instantly. Slowly, my vision dimmed, and I lost all ability to move.
Confused and disoriented, I found myself in the bed I shared with Philip beside a stranger whose face was unfamiliar.
"Ahhh!" I screamed involuntarily and recoiled. Fear and self-assessment coursed through my veins.
My eyes widened in shock as the door violently swung open, revealing Philip, still clad in the three-piece suit from the hotel where I had witnessed him presenting Megan with the necklace.
"What the fvck is going on?!" His voice thundered, intensifying the dizziness already clouding my mind.
With swift determination, he seized the man by his collar and unleashed a forceful punch. I screamed in terror as the man hastily recoiled as if suddenly exposed in the act of cheating.
I could feel Philip's hands clenched with the desire to hurt me, but he restrained himself, his gaze darkening with suspicion.
"Philip, please, you have to believe me! I was kidnapped! I don't know what's going on!" I pleaded desperately.
My mother-in-law suddenly appeared, her presence adding to the chaos. "I knew it! I've been telling you, Philip! That's why I've been coming to Serenity Pines Estate, to keep an eye on that wench! I knew she was up to something!"
"N-no, that's not true!" I interjected, my voice trembling with defiance.
With a sneer, Mrs. Cornell pulled out some photos from her bag and tossed them onto the bed.
I spotted myself in the photos, seated across from Jakob, my classmate from Advanced Programming, engaged in conversation. He was his usual self, sporting his trademark hoodie jacket, while I wore a radiant smile in those snapshots. In another image, I embraced him beside his motorcycle, yet this time, his hoodie boasted a different hue.
Suddenly, a startling realization dawned on me as I recalled that the man I had been with was also clad in a hoodie!
"You're meeting your lover in different restaurants! And now, you've even brought them to your own room?" Mrs. Cornell accused, her tone sharp and accusatory.
No, no! With a vehement shake of my head, I battled against the torrent of baseless accusations crashing upon me like waves against a rocky shore. Desperately, I fought against the suffocating weight of unjust suspicion that threatened to consume me.
Philip "I handed you the job! We poured millions into this movie, only to discover the audience isn't pleased with the story's flow. And now there's negative feedback because the lead actress is embroiled in scandals!" My father's voice echoed in his expansive office. "Do something!" he bellowed, hurling papers at me that had been neatly arranged on his broad desk moments before. Clenching my fist, I exited his office. Crisis after crisis plagued Luminary Productions, and yet, as CEO, my father dumped it all on me. This was the norm in the office between me and my father. Despite orchestrating the issues himself, he still pointed the finger at me, the designated heir apparent as president of production. According to him, it was my responsibility to foresee these challenges! But when would he finally confer the position upon me? I had been his protégé for two years now, and there seemed no end in sight. I practically lived at work, bending over backwards to cater to his every whi
Sarah Philip's grasp on my arms was ferocious, each finger a vice, as if he were a stranger lost in the depths of his own darkness. It was as though he couldn't recognize me anymore. Under the weight of his anger, my bones felt fragile, on the brink of breaking, and I couldn't fathom what thoughts raced through his mind—a familiar uncertainty that haunted our interactions. With each step down the broad staircase, his chest heaved with fury. "Philip, please, calm down! I-I didn't do anything!" I pleaded, tears streaming down my cheeks, matching the torrential rain outside that also mirrored his rage. As he escorted me out of Serenity Pines Estate, the cold enveloped me, matching the chill in his demeanor. Every drop of rain felt like it seeped into my very being, amplifying my distress. I struggled to comprehend what was happening, still reeling from whatever substance the abductors had forced upon me. My eyes felt as clouded as my mind. "No, Philip!" I begged desperately, cling
Philip Finding myself enveloped in darkness, I was at a loss upon hearing the news of Sarah's hospitalization, especially alongside the last person I would have expected. My knowledge of Amir Benner stems from my engagement within the racing community; he presently holds the position of president at TerraTraxx Automotive, situated in Dubai. "As per my investigation," Alex began, "Mr. Benner arrived in Highland Hills for business purposes. He's also collaborated with Luminary Productions to promote their latest car model." I barely registered his words. I don't give a f[u]ck about Mr. Benner's affairs. What consumed me was understanding his connection to my wife. Seeming to sense my agitation, Alex added, "Boss, Mr. Benner just arrived recently. I doubt he's acquainted with Madam Sarah." No matter how desperately I craved solace, his words were mere whispers against the tempest raging within me. Just moments ago, I had discovered Sarah in the company of another man. Gripped by
Sarah My senses are enveloped in a fog, leaving me feeling disconnected from my being. I am only aware of Philip's familiar touch and the warmth of his kisses upon my lips and neck. Yet, I find myself lacking the strength to respond, delve deeper, and confront reality. Darkness gripped me fiercely, dragging me into the depths of a distant realm within my dream. Gently, my eyelids fluttered open, pulling me from a deep sleep. As awareness seeped in, I struggled to piece together recent events, finding myself in the familiar confines of the bedroom I shared with Philip. The memories flood back, the last clear one being outside the villa, rain pelting down as Philip dragged me away, leaving me until I succumb to unconsciousness. Unwanted tears traced down my cheeks, a bitter reminder of how fate has toyed with me. A sudden knock on the door startles me out of my reverie, breaking the heavy silence of the room. "Sarah?" a voice called from beyond the door. I hastily wiped awa
Sarah I was caught off guard when Amir's voice echoed through the phone. The cliché of being shocked barely captures the depth of my surprise. For a brief moment, my thoughts faltered as a wave of disbelief swept over me. Amir's resentment towards me stemmed from a misunderstanding regarding his girlfriend, an accusation I vehemently denied. Despite my attempts to explain, he stopped all communication for three long years. "Brother?" I interjected, attempting to cloak my uncertainty with a hint of reassurance. "Yes, that's right!" His confirmation echoed hollowly, a stark reminder of the chasm between us. The ache of longing for my brother pierced through me like a dagger. Yet, the cruel reality remained—he had already severed our ties. In the pregnant pause that followed, I believed he sensed the tumult of emotions raging within me, wordlessly echoing the void between us. "Listen, I understand there's been tension for three years, but blood runs deep between us. We've always le
Sarah My excitement bubbled uncontrollably, an unstoppable force urging me to share the impending news with Philip. I couldn't shake the feeling that this revelation might redefine our entire dynamic. Yet, amidst the tumult of emotions swirling within me, I couldn't ignore the gnawing sensation that Amir's reaction wouldn't match my euphoria. "You're pregnant, and yet that jerk left you stranded outside your villa, soaked in the rain, and caused you to faint? I'll have a word with him, Sarah! He needs to face the consequences!" Amir seethed with anger. "Please don't! They don't know about my background as a Benner," I pleaded. "What?" Amir felt taken aback. "When I enrolled in university, I used Grandpa's last name, Mitchell. To everyone else, I'm Sarah Mitchell, an orphan," I explained to my brother. "So, that's why he didn't know we're related." "Please, leave Philip alone!" I redirected my plea to Amir. I expected Philip to react differently upon learning the truth rather
Sarah Philip's arms folded tightly across his chest, a mysterious smile playing on his lips. The enigmatic gleam in his eyes hinted at depths of emotion I couldn't fathom. Yet, it was clear that my words had struck a nerve, and his reaction spelled trouble. "What's all this about?" he queried, a touch of amusement lacing his tone. Though not yet consumed by anger, his incredulity suggested he found my words utterly ridiculous. A wave of realization washed over me, accompanied by the relentless ache of the past two days. It spurred me to assert my desires. "I understand you want to end things, Philip. So, I'm granting you the freedom to pursue whomever you please." Be it Megan, his audacious secretary, or any other temptress lurking in the shadows, I refused to be the pitiful pawn left waiting at home! His reaction was immediate, fury igniting in his eyes as he seized my arms, drawing us together with an intensity that bordered on violence. "Why? So that you can be with th
Sarah Mrs. Cornell sat in the passenger seat of her car, her face pale and her movements unsteady as we headed toward the hospital. A voice of reason tugged at the corners of my mind, questioning the wisdom of my actions. Yet, despite enduring three years of her verbal abuse, I reminded myself that she is Philip's mother. This would be the final act of kindness. Once she was safely at the hospital, I resolved to inform Philip through Alex instead. Upon arrival, I reached out to support Mrs. Cornell as we made our way inside, my arm extended in an offer of assistance, which she seemed hesitant to accept. At the nurse's station, Mrs. Cornell inquired about Dr. Smith's whereabouts. Assuming she was familiar with the doctor's clinic, I refrained from questioning her and trailed behind. However, my surprise mounted as we proceeded down a hallway marked for the OB-Gyn department. "Um, Mrs. Cornell—" I began tentatively, only to be abruptly silenced. "Shut up! Just follow me!"