"You're a fool, Zinnia. A big FOOL." Those words had stung Zinnia's heart so deeply and she felt like the ground should open and swallow her. The stinging sensation lingering where her grandmother's slap had landed, made tears almost swell in her eyes, but she clenched her hands, fighting back her tears. The room suddenly felt suffocatingly large, each pair of eyes fixed upon her, magnifying her humiliation. The disappointment etched across her grandmother's face cut deep, a painful reminder of her transgression. As Zinnia glanced around, she could see the shock reflected in the eyes of her family members. They stared at her, their expressions were a mix of disbelief and discomfort, witnessing the unexpected that happened. It was a huge shock because Ma'am Luna had never raised her hands to slap Zinnia before. But what infuriated her, even more, were the subtle smirks on the faces of Marcus, Lisa, and Aaron. Their silent laughter at her expense only fueled her frustration. She felt
The next morning, Duncan made breakfast with a pleasant smile that got everyone who caught a glimpse of him marveled. They wondered whether he had won a lottery ticket. Laila, after seeing Duncan set the dining table with a big smile on his face, wondered if Zinnia had given him a chance to take advantage of her last night because she was feeling angry. She rushed to Zinnia's room and after knocking three times, Zinnia opened the door, surfacing with a smile on her face. "Zinnia, you look happy," Laila observed as she walked into the room. Zinnia locked the door behind and inhaled the dress morning air that came in through the windows of the room she had opened a while ago. "Zinnia?" "What is it, Mother? Isn't the morning air so nice in your room?" "What?" "Are the windows of your room open?" "Well…whatever! You have not even greeted me, Zinnia." Laila frowned, rolling her eyes. "Oh. My bad." Zinnia chuckled and pulled her mother into a hug. "You smell so nice this morning. Did
After breakfast, Zinnia approached Lisa and asked, "How are you going to prepare the presentation In 3 hours?""Hm, my dear cousin-sister, does that bother you?" Lisa asked in a sarcastic manner, making Zinnia roll her eyes as she hung her bag on her shoulder."I'm the least bothered one, you know. Now, tell me how you're going to go about preparing a top-notch presentation within just 3 hours?""It's none of your business. I know you want me to tell you so you can get some great ideas to come up with your own presentation. Come to think of it, is this what you and Marcus do?""Excuse me…?""I mean, you all are just irresponsible. You don't want to do anything with your brains but you want to take unmerited credits.""I beg your pardon, don't you dare say that about me or I will-""You'll do nothing because you're capable of nothing and that's why you used your body to get what you want instead of your brain, or wasn't that why you started an extramarital affair with Peterson Rogers?"
Bella rolled her eyes as she exchanged glances with Aaron, saying, "Could he possibly know that you were the one who swapped the flash drives?" Having a second thought about it, Bella gulped with Aaron as they stared inquisitively at Lisa whose brows furrowed."Ah, no, Mother. He didn't," Lena said, shaking her head."Oh, Lisa, are you sure…?""Yes, Aaron, you fool. I'm not a dunce like you, you know.""Okay." Aaron let out a bitter chuckle before sitting back on the bed."Lisa?""Mother, I am a hundred percent sure about that," Lisa said and gave a certain nod. "You know, Duncan is a fool. He came to clean the office that morning and I can bet my fortune that he doesn't even suspect me."Feeling assured by her daughter's words, Bella smiled broadly. "You are really my daughter, Lisa. I am proud of you."Lisa smirked and lifted an eyebrow. "And?""And, dear, I believe in you. I am sure you will topple Zinnia and Marcus. You will win your grandmother's heart with your presentation and
The following morning, Lisa was checking her wristwatch as she headed down the hallway to join the waiting family members for breakfast, a smile plastered on her face. Then she stopped when Marcus came out of his room and walked up to her."Good morning, Lisa," he greeted with a half grin, showing his awful set of teeth.Lisa was a bit surprised that he greeted her first because Marcus usually commands to be greeted first most times. With puffing shoulders, she nodded, acknowledging his greeting before responding, "Good morning, Marcus.""You look happy this beautiful morning.""It's indeed a beautiful morning for me. I am going to blow everyone's mind away at the dining table by announcing the readiness of my presentation and I am going to rub it in on Zinnia."Marcus nodded, unbuttoning one of his vest's buttons, saying, "Hm, good. I can't wait. But, first, let me see." He stretched out his hand, making Lisa narrow her eyes at him."What do you mean?""I am talking about your presen
Everyone's eyes grew bigger as Ma'am Luna glared at Lisa who couldn't stand up straight and stared at her. Lisa's emotions swirled inside her, a tumultuous storm of shame, humiliation, and confusion. The stinging sensation on her cheek served as a constant reminder of the physical and emotional impact of her grandmother's slap. As her family members arose, her parents' expressions were a mix of concern and disbelief, Lisa felt the weight of their collective judgment pressing down on her. Feeling exposed and vulnerable, Lisa's eyes darted from one family member to another, briefly making eye contact before dropping her gaze to the laptop screen in front of her. The screen, once a source of comfort and escape, now seemed like a portal into her own darkness. She couldn't help but question herself, wondering if the person in the video was truly her. Doubt gnawed at her, but deep down, she knew it wasn't her. It was a relief to have that clarity, but it also intensified her need to find
Back in the office, the tension was building with each passing second. After Marcus told them how he got the video, he started wondering who dropped the flash drive in his office. For him, he could only think it was someone else who wished ill for Lisa and it baffled him the more of who could be Lisa's enemy. Whatever prompted the person to drop the flash drive in his office or whoever the person was, he didn't care. He was more happy that through the flash drive, he was able to get back at Lisa too for being insolent and pompous to him earlier that morning."I am so ashamed of you, Lisa," Ma'am Luna groaned. "You know I had hopes for you because you have never disappointed me, I wanted to give you a chance but you ruined it by stooping so low and committing such a shameful act. I regret ever believing in you.""Ah, grandmother, don't take this to heart, please," Bella uttered, intervening for her daughter's best interest. "I am sure Lisa didn't mean that. She only wanted to prove tha
With their faces just inches away, Karla felt her cheeks burning locking her eyes onto Duncan's. When he lifted his brows, she arched a brow and nodded lightly before he glanced at her hand.Not taking her hand off, she poised to continue. "I am sure you're not fretting because of your wife, right?""I'm Duncan Walton.""Correct. And…?""I'm bound to win in any game I partake in. Yeah, I was thinking Lisa was going to do the presentation but I had a change of mind this morning and without thinking of the aftermath, I proceeded with my new plan.""What do you mean?"Not bothering to give her a long narration, he went on talking, leaving her confused."I need to make a good presentation to beat Zinnia's no matter what.""Sure, I am here to help you.""No. Take your hand off." Karla blinked uncontrollably as he gave her a steel expression before she proceeded to withdraw her hand."Also, you're not capable of helping me, Karla.""What? I…"Before Karla could finish a statement to defend
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