Some hours later, In the elegant living room, tensions brewed as Marcus and Zinnia confronted Ma'am Luna. The air was thick with frustration and disapproval. The matriarch sat in the center, her figure composed despite the storm around her, with other family members occupying their own corners. Marcus, his anger palpable, launched into his tirade. "Grandmother, I can't fathom why you entrusted Duncan with such a crucial responsibility. He has proven to be nothing but a total loser. He skips work, doesn't show up on some days, and less than 24 hours before the presentation, he hasn't even shared the presentation with us. Last night, he returned home late, and this morning, he left early without a word. It's unacceptable." Zinnia, echoing her brother's sentiments, stepped forward. "I stand with Marcus on this, grandmother. Duncan's lack of seriousness is appalling. You've granted him undeserved privileges for too long, and he's taken advantage of both you and us." Lisa and Isab
Entering the hospital, the tension among the trio continued to escalate. At the reception counter, Zinnia faced an earful from the nurse who had tried to reach out to her earlier without success. In an impolite manner, Zinnia shunned the nurse, demanding to be directed to Duncan's location. Witnessing Zinnia's unexpected outburst, the onlookers in the hospital lobby recognized her as a public figure. In an attempt to salvage the situation, Ma'am Luna stepped in, apologizing to the nurse on Zinnia's behalf. She explained that Zinnia was only expressing concern about Duncan's condition and that her mannerisms may be lacking due to the worry. The nurse offered a guide to Duncan's location, and the trio followed the directions. Along the way, Zinnia continued to grumble about the hospital staff, prompting Ma'am Luna to warn her to behave appropriately. Arriving at Duncan's ward, they were met by the attending doctor who stepped out to explain Duncan's critical condition. The doctor
Karla's breath caught in her throat as Duncan winked at her, dispelling the tension that had gripped the room. "Duncan…you're awake?" she stammered, surprised by his sudden shift. "Yeah," he replied, sitting up on his elbow and casually removing the oxygen mask, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "You like my acting?" Karla's initial shock turned into frustration. She straightened up, clenching her fists in front of his face. "Are you serious, Duncan? You are kidding at this moment?" Duncan furrowed his eyebrows, realizing the gravity of the situation. "Karla, I was just…" "Shut up! You probably don't know how worried I was earlier. I was about to die of worry, you know. Now you are thinking it's funny?" "I'm not kidding. I know I got you fretting, but it was never my intention. I had this worked out, you know?" He smiled, attempting to lighten the mood, but it only fueled Karla's anger. "You are going to die now!" she threatened, attempting to hit him. However, he quickly grab
Karla sighed, a blend of irritation and amusement in her expression. "You're unbelievable, Duncan. One of these days, your prank will be the end of me."Duncan, still holding her close, grinned mischievously. "But admit it, it was a good one."Karla, torn between annoyance and affection, finally managed a smile. "Fine, it was a good one. But promise me, no more acting like you're unconscious. Ever." Duncan nodded, his eyes reflecting sincerity. "Promise. Now, can we get back to a less dramatic evening?" Karla rolled her eyes, but a small laugh escaped her. Letting go of her previous worry, Karla took a deep breath, attempting to compose herself. "You're always worried about me, Karla. I don't appreciate that," Duncan said, releasing his grip on her. "Quit doing that, okay?""No. I won't," she replied firmly, her gaze unwavering as she looked directly into his eyes."Why…?""It's because I love you so much, and you know it.""Karla, I know, but…""It's fine." She held up her ha
After hearing the exit footsteps of Zinnia grow distant, Duncan finally opened his eyes. He sat up on the bed, a sense of triumph in his expression, and stretched out his arms. Pulling the IV pole along with him, he walked to the window and opened it. As the morning sun lit up his face, he chuckled, reveling in the unfolding drama."A perfect day to make a new achievement, it seems." The door opened, and he glanced over his shoulder to see Karla walking in."You're awake?" she asked as she approached him."Yeah. Good morning.""Good morning. Uh, I saw Zinnia leaving."Duncan smirked and turned to face her. "Guess what.""What?""She was reassigned the task just like I had anticipated.""Oh, really?""Yep. It wasn't Marcus.""Woah. But… Marcus was in the right position to get it.""Ma'am Luna seems to value Zinnia more than Marcus. Though I've not confirmed that or know why, but that seems true.""Strange.""That, I will figure out later. Now, guess what Zinnia told me?""What? I c
Returning her gaze to the bed, Abigail pointed at the person who unfortunately turned out not to be Duncan. "Who's this?" Avoiding Abigail's gaze, Karla took a step forward. "He's my…" she paused and cleared her throat. "My driver." "What the heck is going on?" Abigail was confused. "You got your driver to pretend to be on this bed as Duncan?" "Obviously." Karla shrugged. "And where is Duncan?!" "He left." "What the heck do you mean? Where did he go?" "To handle the presentation." "For the Lennart family? How's he going to do that?" Karla quietly stared at her as her driver excused them. "Tell me everything…!" "Yes, just bring your voice down. Relax. Okay?" Abigail exhaled and nodded, folding her arms. "Go on, I'm all ears now." Karla sighed and looked away as she thought of where to start explaining. However, back in the personalized meeting room, Lady Zelda and Babette dropped their gaze to the foot of the person, who sported a nice pair of Italian shoes. Lifting thei
Nicholas, frustrated and feeling the pressure of the situation, mumbled to himself, "If only she'd see reason." He paced outside the room, contemplating the potential consequences of Duncan's unpreparedness for the presentation. Inside the room, Duncan was focused on crafting his own presentation. He knew the importance of delivering a compelling pitch to secure the deal for the Walton Group of companies. As he worked diligently, Babette entered the room to check on his progress. "Sir Duncan, how's it going? Do you need any assistance?" Babette inquired. Duncan looked up, appreciating her concern. "I'm working on it. It's a bit challenging, but I'll manage. I appreciate your trust in me, Babette." As Duncan continued his preparations, Babette couldn't shake off her own concerns. She stepped closer and whispered, "Sir, are you sure about this? Nicholas offered to represent us, and he seems confident in making a successful presentation." Duncan paused, considering her words.
Duncan tried to keep his composure as Zinnia walked up to him. He faked a smile, turning to face her. "What do you mean?" he asked, attempting to sound casual.Zinnia took off her glasses, her gaze fixed on Duncan. "I remember you," she stated. Duncan's heart skipped a beat as he asked, "From where?"Zinnia smiled knowingly, "You were the other guy I saw in the hallway when I was leaving after my presentation the other time." Duncan chuckled, glancing away. "Oh, that was you," he said with a feigned surprise. Inwardly, he let out a silent sigh of relief, grateful that she didn't notice the tension he had been hiding. Duncan made a short prayer of thanksgiving in silence, grateful that Zinnia had recognized him without revealing his undercover identity. Returning his gaze to Zinnia, he noted the hardened expression on her face."Good to see you again, Miss," Duncan greeted, trying to maintain a composed demeanor."Miss? Don't you know me?" Zinnia questioned, her tone challenging.
Thank you my dear reader if you followed this story from the very beginning and got here. I really do appreciate you and I celebrate you too. 🥰🥰. To those who lightened my days with their comments, I love you.😘😘And those who unlocked the book chapter and encouraged me with their votes, I cherish you. My amazing followers, I honestly do appreciate you for sticking through.Sooner or later, I hope to bring a new book that will leave you on the edge of your seat. Do well to anticipate it.Kindly drop your hit comments make me blush too like Karla .🤭🤭
The following weeks were a whirlwind of excitement as Duncan and Karla delved into the preparations for their wedding. Amidst the chaos of planning, choosing venues, and coordinating details, their love for each other grew stronger. As the anticipated day arrived, it unfolded as a spectacular event, earning the title of the best wedding ever held.Duncan, mesmerized by Karla as she walked down the aisle, whispered, "You look breathtaking, my love."Karla's eyes glistened with happiness. "And you look dashing. I can't believe this day is finally here." The ceremony was filled with heartfelt vows, joyous laughter, and the collective love of friends and family. As they exchanged rings, symbolizing their commitment, the crowd erupted in cheers, celebrating the union of two souls deeply in love. The celebrations continued into the night, marked by lively dances, heartfelt toasts, and the undeniable glow of happiness radiating from Duncan and Karla. It was a day etched in their heart
Some weeks later, Abigail stepped out of her car in front of the airport. She was set to leave after being unable to detach herself from Duncan for the last weeks.Linda and Xia bid her goodbye, expressing their good wishes."Take care, Miss Abigail. We appreciate everything you've done,” Linda said, emotionally.Xia added, "Safe travels. We'll miss you." As Abigail headed towards the entrance, she was pleasantly surprised to find Duncan and Karla inside, waiting for her. They had arrived earlier to see her off.Duncan, smiling warmly, said, "Hey, Abigail. We thought we'd come to say our goodbyes in person."Abigail was touched. "You didn't have to do that. I'm really grateful."Karla with sincerity, said, “Abigail, you've been a true friend to Duncan and you've helped me in some ways too. We can't thank you enough for helping us."“You're both welcome.” Abigail stared at Duncan as he spread his arms apart, asking for a hug.Abigail hugged Duncan one last time, and with a heartfel
The following morning, the Lennart family received the news that Gregg and Rhino would soon face trial. Ma'am Luna fretted about the implications, and Laila suggested a drastic measure."Mother, considering the situation, maybe we should leave the country. It might be the safest option for us and Zinnia."Ma'am Luna, pondering the idea, said, "Leaving the country might indeed be the best way to ensure Zinnia isn't exposed for Duncan's death. After all, his corpse hasn't been found."Meanwhile, Zinnia overheard their conversation and entered the room."Leave the country? Why? What's happening?"Laila, trying to calm her, explained, "Zinnia, dear, it's just a precaution. With Gregg and Rhino facing trial, it's better for us to avoid any unnecessary attention."Zinnia was skeptical. But what about Duncan?" Ma'am Luna, feigning concern: "Sweetheart, we're doing this for your safety. If we stay, people might start questioning Duncan's disappearance."Zinnia reluctantly agreed."Fine, bu
Abigail observed Duncan and Karla getting into Karla's car before driving off. A single tear slipped down her cheek, quickly wiped away as she elegantly adjusted her knee-length gown. Xia appeared behind her with her P.A., stating, “You shouldn't have held back and listened to the nonsense Karla spewed.”Abigail chuckled. “It's okay.”“Maybe it's time to wrap this up,” Abigail declared. “I will go alone.” She slung her bag over her shoulder and left.“She's so strong,” Linda remarked as they watched Abigail drive away.“You're right,” Xia concurred. “She's also a great person. Right?”Xia dropped her gaze to Linda, nodding in agreement. Meanwhile, Karla kept a watchful eye on Duncan as he drove, his demeanor almost reckless. She hesitated to stop him, not wanting to ruin his mood. However, as Duncan nearly lost control, endangering their lives, she forced him to pull over.“I am sorry,” Duncan apologized after stopping. It dawned on him that he should have been more careful, realiz
Duncan was surprised at what he heard and his expression turned stoic. “Duncan, I only learned about that tonight when I heard her and Karla talking about executing the plan.”Duncan looked away slowly, unable to believe his ears.Karla came closer and said, reluctantly, “Also, Abigail is Rhino's niece. I knew about it.”Duncan's gaze shifted to her in astonishment. “You learned about it today?”Karla shook her head. “It was during the last party.” Duncan's jaw dropped. “I'm sorry.”“You kept it from me for days?!”“I'm sorry, Duncan, I didn't intend to do that.”“Crap! How can you tell me that? Abigail is related to my father's killer and you kept such important information from me. Why?!”Karla sighed, remorse evident in her eyes. "Duncan, I didn't want to burden you with more pain. I was torn between revealing the truth and protecting you from the harsh reality. I thought it would be better to let you know at the right time."Duncan groaned, frustration and betrayal etched on hi
“Duncan!” Karla yelled, taking a step, but a smile on his face eased her worries. Gregg's men, stationed to take Duncan down, surfaced, awed by Duncan's calmness. Karla, surprised, rushed to him, checking his entire body in panic. “Duncan, are you okay?” Duncan nodded, taking off his suit jacket. Unbuttoning his sleeves, he revealed a bulletproof vest. Karla gasped and sighed. “You're wearing a bulletproof?” Duncan nodded, and she laughed softly before pulling him into a hug, panting. Amidst the chaos, Duncan embraced Karla. "I had to take precautions. I couldn't risk anything happening at this critical moment." Karla, relieved, whispered, "I was terrified. It looked so real." Duncan kissed her forehead. "I needed it to be convincing. Now, let's let them think they succeeded." Zinnia and Ma'am Luna, still amid the chaos, discreetly slipped away, realizing the plan had taken an unexpected turn. Lady Zelda, shocked, approached Duncan and Karla. "Duncan, are you alright?"
Ma'am Luna, losing her patience tightened her grip on Zinnia, urging her. “Answer me!” Unsure of how to respond, Zinnia hesitated before finally deciding to play along.“I didn't do anything, grandmother. Duncan just disappeared on his own, and I don't know where he is.” Zinnia maintained a facade of innocence, concealing the dark truth lurking beneath the surface. Ma'am Luna let go of Zinnia and she excused herself to use the bathroom. Confirming ma'am Luna wasn't watching her as she walked away, Zinnia signaled to Gregg who was standing some meters away from her, and headed out. Gregg followed her. He walked up to her as she paced back and forth outside.When he tapped her, she spun, startled and almond screamed.“Dear, relax. What's wrong?” Gregg asked.“Ma’am Luna, I mean my grandmother seems to be suspecting me. She just asked me about Duncan earlier.”Gregg frowned, concern etching his face. "What did you tell her?"Zinnia took a deep breath, trying to compose herself. "I
After a brief silence, Karla pointed at Abigail, who strangely did nothing but stare at her in astonishment. “If you ever wish ill for Duncan again, then I won't think twice before giving you a dirty slap to get you thinking straight.”Abigail smirked and chuckled before rubbing her stinging cheek, which had turned red.“You know what, Karla? You're unbelievable. I had thought for once that you're different from those selfish women out there. I had empathy for you when you opened up to me, and that's why, to date, I have not told Duncan about your relationship with Rhino. You have turned against him and stabbed him in the back. Why? Because he rejected you?! You're so pathetic.”Abigail shrugged and straightened up, managing to smile. She simply said, “Enjoy the party, and… my regards to Duncan.” With that, she entered her car. Karla watched her drive off, engulfed in bitterness, then returned inside.Abigail pulled by the side of the main road later and called Xia.“You're at the pa