"Laurel?" Ethan asked in shock, the night has been one with doubtful events and he was no longer sure wether to believe or doubt what his eyes were seeing.
Ethan wasn't who Laurel and her lover was expecting to see. The air around them felt heavy with fear, their breaths uneasy filled with panic, but for some reason, they breathing normalized and clarity and calmness returned to their beings.
"What the fuck happened here?" Ethan fumed with anger. This wasn't a scene any man should see when coming back home - his girlfriend all loved up with another man on their bed.
His breathing became laboured, boiling with rage and fury. Heaven knew the thoughts that invaded his mind were not legal.
Rather than an explanation, Ethan's question was met with a condescending sneer.
"Answer me Goddammit!!" Ethan's voice went high with rage.
"What the hell are you doing here?" Laurel asked, completely ignoring Ethan's question, completely unbothered by Ethan's boiling rage.
What was his doing there? In his own house? How could he have loved someone like this?
"I was taken captive by gangsters. They wanted a lot of money from me."
"Where did you get money to give them?" Laurel asked with a mocking tone. She knew Ethan wasn't rich, she was his girlfriend after all, she knew him better than most people.
"I didn't. They let me go when they saw I had nothing."
"Of course they did." Laurel chuckled with sarcasm. "And let me guess you need money to settle them so they don't come after you again right?" She added.
"You think I'm lying don't you?" Ethan sighed in defeat when he realized what was going on.
"Of course I know you're lying. You're just trying to leech of me, and get me to give your poor ass money". Laurel poured out with so much ridicule in her tone. That was how she saw Ethan - a parasite.
Laurel's words penetrated Ethan like bullets, piercing and causing damage to his being. As his ear drums took in the words coming out of her mouth, Ethan's face squeezed from disgust and irritation.
She was not only a cheat but also heartless.
"Do you even hear yourself right now?" Ethan began. "If luck wasn't on my side tonight, I would have died just like that where those gangsters held me captive. Yet you have the nerve to not only call me liar but also cheat with another guy in my house?!" Ethan exploded, his eyes narrowed and his voice louder than usual. His irritation and disgust for the immoral couple in front of him was through the roof.
Seeing Ethan blow up, the guy on the bed with jumped up and rushed towards Ethan.
"Watch your fucking mouth!" The guy said as he held Ethan by his shirt's collar.
He pushed him till Ethan's back was back against the wall.
"Get the hell off me you fucking bastard!" Ethan struggled to free himself from the guy's grip but was too weak to do so.
"Leave him Alex, he's not worth it." Laurel interjected as things began to get heated.
"Even the girl you love doesn't think you're worth it." Alex mocked Ethan, his grip still on his collar. "You're a joke, a sad ass loser." Alex rained insults on Ethan.
"Watch it! Or I swear to God I'll..." Ethan threatened.
"You'll what? You can do nothing. The poor are at the mercy of the wealthy. And you are at the bottom of the chain." Alex cut him off and fired him with insult. "You don't deserve someone like Laurel, it's an abomination for you to even be near her."
The insults hurled at Ethan by Alex became unbearable.The gangsters had dealt with him already and stripped him of his dignity as a man, Ethan wasn't going to allow another man do that to him again, let alone that same night."Get off me!" Ethan yelled as he pushed Alex off him with all his strength. He swung his right fist at Alex, who weaved it and punched Ethan on his nose before he could block it.The force of the punch sent Ethan staggering. Brushing off the blood coming out of his nose, Ethan charged at Alex again, who gave him another punch which sent Ethan to the ground. His lips bursted, Blood coming out of his mouth and nose.Ethan was seething with anger but didn't have the strength to do anything with it. He was too weak and tired to fight back.Left with no choice, Ethan wiped the blood from his mouth and dusted his body as he managed to stand back on his feet.He lost. More than once today.Taking a final look at Laurel, Ethan shook his head as he left the house for the
Left with no choice, Ethan accepted defeat, an action that was becoming recurring for him. No matter how many times he tried to pick himself up, life always found a way to throw him down.Ethan took one last look at the receptionist. He didn't blame her, it was his low position in life that opened him up to her insults.To avoid any more embarrassment, Ethan took to his leave. He would rather die than face another embarrassing moment from the guards again.Stepping out of the reception lounge, Ethan took a look back inside. More than the wall of glass now stood in between him and the reception lounge, Ethan eyes became moist. He was about to loose his once in a lifetime chance.Dipping his hands into his pocket, Ethan brought out his phone. He wasn't about to give up just yet. He would give it a go, one last time."Come on!!" Ethan prayed under his breath as he switched on the phone. "Yes!!" Ethan almost screamed as the phone came on. Maybe he wasn't cursed after all. Maybe he had fin
The air around Alex suddenly became tensed. What the hell just happened? The bright and shining countenance on his face faded away as his eyes saw the Old Man bowing to Ethan."This can't be happening." Alex thought in his mind as terror slowly creeped into his body as the reality of the events began to settle in his mind.He had known the The Housekeeper was the president of Majestic Skies Building. He had also known that there was a Super Family backing The Housekeeper.A deeper level of fear ran through his spine as he tried to put the pieces together. If The Housekeeper saluted Ethan with so much respect, was Ethan a member of the Super Family?"No he couldn't be!" Alex screamed in his mind. That made no sense. Or did it? As Alex pounded on these thoughts, sweat beads began forming on his forehead, his palm getting sweaty, his breathing became laboured."Hope you didn't experience much discomfort?" The Old Man asked with so much care."Nothing to worry about." Ethan responded."I'
Walking back into the building, All eyes were fixated on them. It was a clear representation of Word and Opposite.The Old Man had on a very expensive and exquisite Armani suit. Only 3 of it were made in the whole world. Ethan on the other hand looked unkept and rough all over. They were a classic representation of two different worlds.The pair arrived at the top floor and stood in front of a giant door."We're here." The Old Man said as he pushed the door opened."What the.." Ethan couldn't bring himself to complete the sentence as the door swung open and the scent of aged leather and polished mahogany wafts through the air.Stepping into the CEO's office, Ethan's mouth fell wide open with awe.Inside the CEO's office is a masterpiece of modern decadence. Walls of floor-to-ceiling windows offer panoramic views of the city below, a constant reminder of the empire they command.The floors, adorned with plush Persian rugs, absorb the echoes of footsteps with luxurious silence.Ethan co
As Ethan pounded on his new predicament, a cream colored Lamborghini Veneno Roadster drove and stopped at the gate near him.Only Ethan seemed fazed by the beauty of the car. The guards didn't seem fazed. They were used to such sight every day. Perks of working in the Estate gave them opportunity to behold beautiful sights like this.The car was crafted by a team of master artisans and embodied elegance and extravagance in every curve and contour.Ethan wasn't surprised any more, this was the type of vicinity to see such cars after all.The gull-wing doors gracefully swung open, revealing an interior fit for royalty. A lady in her mid twenties stepped out of the car.She was clad in a simple Blue top and mini skirt, made by the famous Gucci brand. Bracelets of Gold adorned her wrists and neck.Her brown hair was styled in a ponytail that complemented her caramel skin tone. Her skin was smooth and neat like that of a new born.Her eyes were blue like the sky, bright and beautiful. She
Ethan was thrown into a state of fear. Why did he keep going from one trouble into another?."Rebekah calm down." Ethan began. He had to be extremely careful now. If she reacted this way to what he said, how will she react if he told her He was that hidden trillionare she mentioned. "She'll never believe. It would only make things worse." Ethan concluded in his mind."Go ahead and explain yourself Ethan." Rebekah said, her eyes fully settled on Ethan, ready to devour the words that would leave his mouth."Alright so, I met the trillionare by accident. Honestly I didn't even know it was him. He needed something done quickly and I happened to be at the right place and right time to help him, so I did. Instead of paying me, he gave me a chance to work in his Villa, that's how I got the key." Ethan carefully explained. He couldn't believe how effortless he came up with that lie on the spot.A stillness of silence followed for a few seconds, as Rebekah digested everything Ethan had just sa
So would you like to come?" Rebekah asked.The question threw Ethan off guard. He didn't think he would ever be invited to their reunion because he was the least well to do amongst them.It's been a decade since he last saw his classmates. Memories of their last day in highschool briefly flashed through his eyes.He could remember how he air was filled with so much joy and celebration as everyone was with their family taking pictures, sharing food laughing and having a good time, how he stood at a secluded corner and watched with a heavy heart. He remembered how had no one to share the celebration of the day with. He was all alone."Ethan?" Rebekah called, snapping Ethan back to the present."I'll let you know. I can't decide right now." Ethan answered."No problem. Here" she deeps her hand into the car and brings out a card. "The address of the party is there, should you later decide to show up." She added, handing over the card to Ethan."Alright then." Ethan collected the card and
"We're honoured to be privileged to serve you. Master Ethan." Said the young man as they all bowed to Ethan. "I'm Leo, the one in charge of the workers." The man in front began. He was the only one not dressed in the same grey uniform as the others. He was average looking and a couple of inches shorter than Ethan."This is Steve, the Gardener.." Leo continued the introduction, pointing to the young guy on the left side. Steve had quite the muscular build which was not surprising given his occupation."This is Leah, the Chef. She's one of the best in the country." pointing to an average height petite lady. She had on her head an hair cover that was common with cooks. She came fully prepared. "This is Hera, the maid. She'll oversee and take care of the house." Leo explained, as he pointed to the young lady with caramel skin. "I hope that would not be too demanding on only you?" Ethan asked, facing Hera."Not to worry Master Ethan." Hera replied with a bow, her voice soft and tender.
The warmth of a quiet morning bathed Rhys and Denera in soft golden light as they sat together on a wide sofa in their tastefully decorated living room. The chaos that had consumed their lives for months felt like a distant memory. Denera rested her head on Rhys’s chest, his arm draped protectively around her. Their hands were intertwined, fingers lightly brushing against each other—a silent vow to never let go. "I still can’t believe we’re here," Denera murmured, her voice carrying a blend of disbelief and gratitude. Rhys tilted her chin up, his piercing gaze meeting hers. "We fought for this, Denera. We’ve been through hell, but we came out stronger. I don’t just love you—I’m in awe of you." She smiled, her cheeks tinged with a soft blush. "And I’m in awe of us. Let’s promise to never let anything or anyone come between us again." Rhys leaned down and kissed her gently. "Not a chance. We’re unbreakable now." The two sat in silence for a moment, basking in the tranquility
The morning sun bathed the city in a golden hue as a soft breeze carried the fragrance of blooming flowers. A week has passed and normalcy has somewhat returned. It was a perfect day, fitting for an event of such grandeur. The wedding of Paul and Rachel-the moment everyone had been waiting for had finally arrived. The venue was a masterpiece: one of the most magnificent halls in the city, renowned for its towering crystal chandeliers and intricately carved marble pillars. From the outside, the building glistened with a mix of modern architectural elegance and timeless charm. Inside, the hall was transformed into a dreamland. A canopy of white roses and orchids draped across the ceiling, interspersed with tiny, twinkling lights that mimicked a starry night. Golden chairs lined the aisle, their backs adorned with silk ribbons and floral arrangements. At the center, a raised platform housed an altar framed by cascading vines and glittering drapery. Guests began to arrive, dress
The dim light of Alex’s makeshift room flickered, casting shadows on the cracked walls and the scattered remnants of his old life. He sat on the edge of a wooden crate, methodically strapping his gear into place. His breaths were steady, but his eyes burned with purpose. Tonight was the night. This was what he had been training for—the moment he would finally free Laurel and eliminate Jason. Alex picked up his blade, its polished steel glinting in the faint light. He ran his fingers over the edge, testing its sharpness. A small scar on his knuckle caught his eye—a reminder of all the battles he’d fought leading up to this. He glanced at the photo of Laurel taped to the wall, her smile a beacon of hope amidst his darkened world. “This is it,” he muttered to himself. “For you, Laurel.”With his weapons secured and resolve hardened, Alex stood, pulling his hood over his head. He left the room without a glance back, the door creaking shut behind him.---The screen went black, the t
The sound of tires crunching over the gravel driveway broke the stillness of the evening as Rhys and Denera pulled up to Gerald’s sprawling mansion. The mansion stood like a fortress, its grand columns illuminated by golden lights that cast long shadows across the well-manicured grounds. As their sleek black car came to a halt, the doors swung open, and the pair stepped out, their presence commanding the attention of everyone nearby.Rhys adjusted the cuffs of his tailored suit, his sharp features set in a calm but deadly expression. Beside him, Denera exuded quiet confidence, her heels clicking against the pavement as she moved. She wore a crimson trench coat, her eyes glinting with a dangerous mix of fury and satisfaction.The heavy front doors of the mansion creaked open, and Gerald emerged with his ever-present smirk plastered on his face. He was flanked by a small squad of armed guards, their weapons gleaming under the lights. Gerald was impeccably dressed, his dark green sui
The Anderson mansion was eerily quiet, the moonlight casting a pale glow over the scene of destruction. Ethan and Paul stood amidst the chaos, their eyes fixed on the lifeless bodies of Jackson and Sebastian sprawled across the bloodied garden. The heavy scent of iron lingered in the air, mixing with the faint rustle of leaves. Ethan’s chest heaved as he struggled to steady his breath, his shirt torn and stained with sweat and blood.Paul glanced at Ethan, concern etched on his face. "You good?" he asked, his voice low but steady.Ethan nodded, though exhaustion weighed on every inch of his body. He pulled out his phone, his hands trembling slightly, and dialed Sandra’s number. The ringing seemed to stretch on forever until her voice finally came through.“Ethan…” Sandra’s voice was weak, barely a whisper. Ethan’s stomach tightened. “Sandra, what happened? Are you okay?” he demanded, his tone laced with panic.There was a pause, and then she spoke again, her words strained. “Sebas
The Walton Mansion stood as a fortress of elegance, bathed in the soft glow of moonlight, its high walls and elaborate architecture a testament to wealth and power. But tonight, the serenity of the estate was shattered. The elite strike team, led by Kiara, moved like shadows through the sprawling grounds, their movements silent yet deliberate.A muffled cry broke the stillness as one of the outer guards was taken down swiftly. Kiara stood in the shadows, her piercing gaze fixed on the mansion ahead. Her dark combat attire blended seamlessly with the night, and a wicked smile played on her lips. **This would be a night the Waltons would never forget.**“Move in,” she ordered, her voice low but commanding. Her team obeyed without hesitation, their precision and ruthlessness evident in every step. Inside the mansion, alarms blared as guards scrambled to defend their employer’s home. Shots were fired, echoing through the grand hallways, but the elite team was unrelenting. They moved w
The garden lay in eerie silence after the brutal fight between Ethan and Jackson. The once-pristine space was a battlefield, littered with trampled flowers and streaks of blood. Ethan leaned against the marble fountain, his chest heaving as he wiped sweat and blood from his face. His body screamed in protest with every movement, exhaustion weighing heavily on him.The cool night breeze did little to calm the storm within him. He glanced at Jackson’s lifeless body sprawled on the ground, his neck twisted at an unnatural angle. Ethan closed his eyes for a moment, trying to steady his breathing. **One battle down, but this war is far from over.**The sound of measured footsteps shattered the silence.Ethan’s eyes snapped open, his body tensing as a tall figure emerged from the shadows. Sebastian. Dressed in a dark suit, the Tree House leader carried himself with the air of a predator who had finally cornered his prey. His piercing gaze fell on Jackson’s corpse, and his expression twis
The Anderson mansion loomed like a fortress under the moonlight, its pristine marble façade glinting ominously. The sprawling gardens surrounding it were immaculately kept, their beauty now cloaked in shadows as the night deepened. A gentle breeze rustled the leaves, but the tension hanging in the air was palpable.Jackson stepped out of the black SUV parked just beyond the gates, his heavy boots crunching against the gravel. He adjusted his leather gloves, the corners of his mouth curling into a grin that promised violence. The security guards at the gates eyed him warily, but he had been granted access. The intercom buzzed before one of the guards spoke, “You’ve been cleared to enter. Proceed to the garden.”Jackson raised an eyebrow, intrigued.” So, Ethan knew I was coming. Typical. The man had a flair for theatrics, after all.” Jackson strode confidently through the gates, his hand brushing against the hilt of the blade strapped to his side. The adrenaline surged in his vein
The grand hall of the Tree Symbol House was bathed in the warm, flickering glow of the fireplace, but the heat from the flames was nothing compared to the tension simmering in the room. Sebastian sat at the head of the long mahogany table, his sharp features etched with anticipation. Around him, the inner circle of the Tree Symbol House sat silently, their faces illuminated by the massive flat-screen television mounted on the wall. Kiara, Sebastian’s second-in-command, leaned back in her chair, her sharp, calculating eyes fixed on the news broadcast. Jackson, the most aggressive of the enforcers, stood near the window, arms crossed, his reflection distorted against the glass as he waited for orders like a loaded weapon. The rest of the members sat quietly, their unease palpable in the dimly lit room.The anchor on the television wore a neutral expression, but her words carried the weight of a bombshell. “Breaking news tonight: The court has found Ethan Anderson innocent of all cha