AnnaMy hand shook as I looked for the lighter. The room was filled with the soothing fragrance of incense, a familiar ritual to honor Mum's memory. I lit the incense, the flame dancing before settling into a steady glow. As the room filled with the subtle aroma, my father entered, his eyes catching the flicker of sadness in mine."You seem upset, sweetheart," he observed, his tone gentle.I sighed, sinking into the chair. "My day was ruined. Mrs. Howard, she... I don't think she likes me much."My father chuckled a warm sound that carried a lifetime of understanding. "You never used to care about what people thought. Why now?"I looked away, the weight of the day settling on my shoulders. "I'm just doing this for Mum. It's important to her memory."He reached out, wrapping his arms around me, and kissed my forehead. "Always for Mum. But remember, you don't need to please everyone, especially if it compromises your happiness."I nestled into his embrace, finding comfort in his words.
0AnnaMy eyes widened, "Oh my goodness, it's not what you think. He drove me to work... oh goodness," I stammered, realizing the headlines must have painted a different picture.Davis leaned against the doorframe, a sly grin playing on his lips. "Well, the media seems to have a vivid imagination, doesn't it?"I sighed, feeling the need to explain myself. "Davis, it's a project for the fashion company. Josie and I were discussing strategies to boost its image. It's all about business."He arched an eyebrow, his gaze lingering on me in a way that sent shivers down my spine. "Business, huh?"The atmosphere between us shifted, a subtle tension hanging in the air. I tried to focus on the conversation at hand, but Davis's presence was undeniably distracting.After a moment of charged silence, he stepped closer, his voice low and intimate. "Annabella, you know you can tell me anything. What's really going on?"I hesitated, my resolve wavering under his intense gaze. "It's just a project, Da
21DavisI sat in the private room, the subtle hum of the coffee shop providing a backdrop to the conversation with the mysterious woman. She was an associate from the company I had just signed, a major player in the tech industry."I appreciate your partnership, Davis. This collaboration will undoubtedly elevate both our companies," she said, a confident smile gracing her features.I reciprocated the gesture, keeping my business demeanor intact. "The pleasure is mine. I believe in mutually beneficial alliances."As the conversation delved into business strategies and future plans, I couldn't help but glance towards the entrance, my mood tired, eyes tired. Only for me to see her come in with her friend. She was dressed in a black jacket with a dress within.Her hair was in a messy bun. She looked beautiful and classy. Her eyes met mine but she quickly turned away and moved on while whispering to her friend. The associate continued interrupting my thoughts, "Your approach is refresh
22Anna"You lied to him," Josie said as we sat in my office, surrounded by pictures of event centers for the upcoming fashion show.I looked at her, a hint of confusion clouding my expression. "What do you mean?"Josie sighed, dropping the iPad onto the table. "You lied. Seriously. It's not about him? You know for sure the reason you were affected at the cafe was because of the lady he was with."I reached for the bottle of water on the table, took a sip, and pursed my lips, squinting my eyes as I replied, "I am not... no, I was not affected. He's a womanizer, Josie. Known for his revolving door of relationships. Why would he stop now that he's married? Come on, Josie. He's Davis Howard. The perpetual bachelor. Everyone wants him."Josie shrugged, "He is not a bachelor anymore, and I believe he would not do something to hurt you."I couldn't help but laugh. "No, please tell me you have not been possessed. He would not do something to hurt me? Josie, come to your senses. This is Davis
23Anna"I see you are enjoying yourself," he said to me, amusement dancing in his eyes.Caught off guard, I stammered, "Davis, I didn't... I mean, I thought you wouldn't be home."He chuckled, a hint of a smirk playing on his lips. "Clearly, I came home at the right time."The music lingered in the air as an awkward silence settled between us. I hastily reached for my jacket, attempting to compose myself. "I didn't expect you to be back so soon."He leaned against the doorway, his gaze lingering on me. "Well, surprises happen. Apparently, I'm not the only one who can enjoy a little unexpected entertainment."I felt a flush of embarrassment, my cheeks warm as I tried to mask the unease. "I was just... letting loose, you know? It's been a stressful day."Davis arched an eyebrow, his eyes glinting with a playful curiosity. "Twerking and wine, the cure for stress?"I shrugged, attempting nonchalance. "Sometimes, you just need a break from the routine."He pushed himself off the doorway,
24AnnaI rushed through the white hallways of the hospital, the sterile environment a stark contrast to the whirlwind of emotions churning within me. My hands fidgeted nervously, the rhythmic sound of my footsteps echoing my anxiety."What has he done again?" I murmured to myself, the weight of past missteps haunting the present. I couldn't shake the fear that my father had delved into another bout of reckless behavior. I hoped against hope that it wasn't another borrowing spree to fuel a gambling addiction. I couldn't handle another debt from my father's end, especially not now.As I neared the reception desk, the tension in the air grew palpable. The nurse behind the counter looked up, her expression a mix of sympathy and formality."Mrs. Howard?" she inquired, confirming my identity.I nodded, my voice tight. "Yes. How is my father? What happened?"She hesitated, choosing her words carefully. "He's in critical condition. The police are here. They would like to speak with you."Dre
AnnaI sat on my bed, my feet tapping anxiously on the floor. I found myself biting my fingers excessively, a nervous habit that betrayed the turmoil within. My father remained unconscious, his fate hanging in the balance, and the weight of the impending decision loomed over me.The fact that Davis had left without a word, perhaps without even seeing me, added another layer of complexity to the already tumultuous day. His absence resonated in the silence that enveloped the house, leaving me alone with my thoughts and the weight of the secrets I carried.The call I awaited would connect me to the clandestine world I had immersed myself in – a world of shadows and dangerous transactions. As I glanced at the clock, each passing moment heightened the tension, the unknowns of the impending mission casting a shadow over my already troubled marriage.In the solitude of my room, I grappled with the conflicting emotions – the sense of duty to my father and the clandestine life I led, against
AnnaHe didn't pick up. My best guess was he didn't want to talk to me. Which I understand.I looked down at my phone, I had left him 15 missed calls just to explain myself. But nothing.I was in a hotel room. Too scared to face Davis. To face those judgmental eyes before I could even explain.I didn't know why I cared about what he thought of me. I mean, I shouldn't, right? Still, I can't get over the fact that he might hate me more.To him, I was just a girl trying to save her mother's company, but he didn't know my secret or my other job. Now he does, and I have to face his tune.No one knows of my secret. Nor even my dad or my best friend. Just me. Now I am frightened to know the way Davis woikd act knowing that this was who I was. My phone buzzed, breaking the silence in the room. It was Davis calling. I hesitated before answering, unsure of what awaited me on the other end."Annabel, where are you?" His voice carried indifference. "I... I needed some space," I muttered, avoidi