The next morning, the Lennarts were having dinner. Zinnia found herself using her eyes as a tool to search for Duncan around the house while she enjoyed a peaceful breakfast with her family. She had not seen him when she woke up and so she was wandering where he had gone.Taking a look around the dining room, Ma'am Luna asked about Duncan's whereabouts."And where is that irresponsible husband of yours, Zinnia?"Unsure of his location, Zinnia simply answered, "I don't know."Laila took the opportunity to express her disdain, remarking, "Well, it is good we did not get to see his ugly face this morning."Her comment was laced with bitterness. But Zinnia remained composed and focused on the task at hand- delivering the presentation to get the contract. She didn't know why she felt a bit anxious and she was trying to act cool to hide it. She had done over a couple of presentations for the company before and succeeded in getting the deals but this one was different and she wasn't thinking
Duncan entered the meeting room with a confident stride. As he stepped inside, he observed the representatives of the company engaged in a lively conversation about the previous presenter which was Zinnia. Their animated gestures and impressed expressions indicated that her presentation had left a positive impact. Not wanting to interrupt their discussion, Duncan approached the group with a friendly smile and greeted them. The sudden realization of his presence caused a brief pause in their conversation. Acknowledging his arrival, one of them kindly requested him to wait outside the meeting room for a moment. Respecting their request, Duncan agreed and stepped back out into the hallway. As he stood there, slightly taken aback by the unexpected turn of events, his attention was captured by the sight of Karla rushing toward him, clutching some papers. Her hurried footsteps slowed as she reached Duncan, and she greeted him with a mix of surprise and concern. "Why are you here?" she
After the long silence, Sir Logan said, "Though I haven't personally seen my grandson, I can beat my hand on my chest and say that he's no less a man like his father, my late son, Dunstan. In fact, I believe he's better than his father and I can't wait to see my grandson. I have been longing to see him for two decades now. I want to know how he has grown all this while.""I am happy you believe him too, Father. I don't know what's wrong with Luke." Lady Zelda felt a growing unease settle within her as she pondered the recent argument with Luke. Though she understood his concerns for her son, Duncan, she couldn't shake the feeling that there was something more beneath his reaction. A subtle shift in his demeanor or the tone of his voice had caught her attention, leaving her with a lingering sense of uneasiness. Her thoughts drifted to Duncan, who was currently working on securing a crucial deal for their company. Lady Zelda's heart swelled with a mix of pride and worry for him. She
Duncan's lips parted into a big smile and nodded. He knew he was going to get the contract. He was just waiting for the news. "I just got a call from them and they are looking forward to seeing you again. They didn't believe me when I told them that you were the CEO of Walton Group of Companies." "Why tell them that?" "Sorry, sir, I was so excited when I got the news and I blurt it out, but I told them not to reveal it to even the press, they promised." "It's fine. I'm sure when I take off this outfit and return to being the worthless son-in-law of the Lennart family, Duncan South, then no one will recognize me." "I think so too, sir." "Congratulations, Duncan." Abigail congratulated and she couldn't stop herself from reaching out to him and hugging him. "I'm so proud of you, you know." "Thanks, Abigail. You helped me a lot and gave me the necessary information." While Duncan appreciated Abigail, he kept stealing glances at Karla who made no reactions or attempts to chirp in. "
Zinnia's heart pounded in her chest as she witnessed the shocking scene unfolding before her. Marcus, with his towering figure, stepped forward, reacting quickly to prevent their mother, Laila, from stumbling to the floor after receiving a slap from Ma'am Luna. The force of the impact had caught Laila off guard, and she stood there, frozen, her eyes wide with disbelief. It had been over two decades since Laila had last been slapped by her own mother, and the shock of the situation reverberated through her. She couldn't fathom how a simple act of interceding for her daughter, Zinnia, could elicit such a harsh response. The pain and confusion etched across Laila's face were palpable, and she struggled to collect herself in the aftermath of the unexpected blow. As she opened her mouth to talk, no words came out. As the tension lingered in the air, Zinnia's gaze retracted from her shocked mother and turned towards her grandmother, Ma'am Luna. There was a mixture of disappointment and
Seeing the surprise still in Duncan's face, she went on to clarify about herself."I am Rose Morgan, Ms, Karla's caretaker.""Oh. I see. Well, I had no idea you were Inside.""Sorry if I scared you. I was up, dressing her bed before cleaning the bathroom. I had to do those chores this time because I came in late.""I understand. Karla is drunk and…"Before Duncan could finish talking, Karla jerked, screaming, "No!" They were almost startled. Karla tilted her head and taking a glimpse of Rose's appalled expression, she laughed and said, "Hey, Rose, did you just see a ghost? You look funny with that expression." She giggled and grabbed Duncan's hand. "Jerk, you're still here. Thanks for not leaving me, I will make sure I reduce my frequency of calling you a jerk.""Really?" Duncan muttered, pressing his lips tightly to prevent himself from laughing."Yes, I promise. But you should do this, Duncan, stop underrating me and overrating Abigail Waclaw. Nothing special about her." She frowned
Duncan's mischievous smile stretched across his face like a flicker of devilish delight. His eyes sparkled with a wicked glint as he surveyed the stunned expressions of his family members in the dining room. After his audacious statement, he reveled in the chaos he had incited. While Zinnia stood frozen, her face having a mixture of shock and indignation. She struggled to find the right words to express her outrage at Duncan's demeaning remark, her mouth opening and closing like a fish out of water. But before she could utter a single word, her mother, Laila, stepped forward to defend her honor."How dare you, you miserable, worthless thing," Laila's voice trembled with a mix of anger and disbelief. "Does my daughter look like a househelp? You'll forever serve this family despite being a part of it, you insignificant fool!" The room fell silent, everyone waiting for Ma'am Luna, the family's matriarch, to intervene. Ma'am Luna with her regal posture and commanding presence, obse
Lady Zelda's face freezes, her eyes widening in shock, as she struggles to register the weight of Luke's words. Her voice trembles as she seeks clarification, desperately clinging to a sliver of hope."What… what do you mean by a 'mere victory'?" She asked, stammering.Luke maintained a calm and composed demeanor, but his words carry an underlying sense of disappointment. And with a sigh, he said, "Yes, sorry to say, ma'am Zelda. I don't think your son is capable of handling the business yet." Lady Zelda's shock intensified, her disbelief etched on her face. She leaned forward, her hands gripping the edge of the ornate armchair she was seated in."What? He's a twenty-seven-year-old man, and you say he's incapable?"Luke maintains his professional stance, meeting Lady Zelda's gaze with a hint of sympathy.He firmly said, "You don't know how he lived his life the last two decades. He might be your son and the family's heir, but you should not forget that he's an undergraduate. He's ine
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