Chapter fifty twoAlexa turned back, her expression now attentive as Mrs. Thompson outlined the first task. "The initial challenge," Mrs. Thompson began, her voice steady, "is to convince him that you can assist him in moving past his divorce.""So, he's a divorcee," Alexa inquired, seeking clarification, to which Mrs. Thompson simply nodded in confirmation."His wife has recently divorced him, leaving him hesitant to embrace the next chapter of his life," Mrs. Thompson elaborated, a hint of disdain evident in her tone. Alexa absorbed this information, contemplating the delicate situation that lay ahead.Mrs. Thompson's offer caught Alexa off guard, her eyes widening with disbelief as she processed the grand proposition laid before her."That seems rather straightforward. Pray, what will be the reward for achieving this task?" Alexa inquired, her curiosity piqued as she chuckled softly."I will present you with a sum of $30,000, and furthermore, I am in possession of a company that is
Chapter fifty threeMr. Thompson's son spoke with a mix of defiance and hurt in his voice, pushing back against his mother's expectations. "I appreciate your concerns, but I don't think it's needed. Why are you so concerned that I must be the heir just because Fiona is a girl? Regardless, she's your daughter too, and she's very smart. So why don't you leave us to compete and get things done on our own," he shouted, his eyes filled with disappointment and a hint of frustration.The room crackled with tension as the family dynamic reached a boiling point. The air was charged with conflicting emotions: pride, stubbornness, and a sense of duty all vying for dominance in the heated exchange. Each word spoken carried the weight of unspoken expectations and the complexities of familial relationships laid bare. The unresolved conflict lingered in the room, a silent reminder of the deep-rooted differences that threatened to strain their bond.As emotions reached their peak, Mr. Thompson's son'
Chapter 54Alice's voice wavered with a mix of frustration and sadness as she addressed her mother. "Mum, can you just stop? I don't want to hear it. Are you here to help me or to taunt me?" Her heartbreak was palpable, realizing that her mother seemed more concerned about her own interests than offering genuine support.Feeling a deep sense of disappointment in her mother, Alice thought of her as the epitome of a selfish parent, someone who only cared about her own needs. "You need to figure something out. What will happen to my monthly allowances?" she questioned, clutching her chest, the weight of her financial uncertainty adding to her emotional turmoil.Alice's eyes narrowed in disdain as she pressed her lips together in a show of displeasure. Regret seeped into her thoughts as she reflected on her mother's words, realizing that she would have chosen differently if she had known how things would unfold."Why don't you call your beloved son-in-law and ask him that? I need to get s
Chapter 55Fiona maintained a firm stance as she gently halted her brother's intention to purchase the artwork featuring him."Don't think of buying it. I believe you can see the write-up clearly. It's not for sale. I am not selling it, regardless of the price placed on it," she clarified, her dedication to preserving this particular piece unwavering."I see, but I can still place an order. I need something like this. I will pay you any amount," her brother persisted, his tone exuding a sense of determination and admiration for her talent. Fiona took in his words with a mix of gratitude and reservation, contemplating the possibility of creating a similar piece for him while maintaining the integrity of the original artwork.As Charlie caught sight of his mother approaching, a fleeting sense of unease prompted him to consider a strategic retreat to avoid any potential confrontation."Charlie, wait up," his mother's command rang out with an authoritative tone, halting his attempt to vee
Chapter fifty sixCharlie stood frozen in disbelief, his eyes narrowing at the sight before him. He couldn't wrap his mind around how someone could be so utterly pathetic. The urge to lash out and deliver a punch to the man's face simmered within him, but he resisted. This wasn't his battle to fight; he should mind his own business.As Michael walked away, leaving her standing there in tears, Charlie couldn't help but feel a mix of conflicting emotions. A smirk crept across his face, though he wasn't sure if it was out of satisfaction or pity for her.In that moment, he grappled with the turmoil stirring inside him - a blend of anger, indifference, and a hint of empathy. The scene unfolding before him left a bitter taste in his mouth, as the sound of her quiet sobs echoed in the distance. Charlie's mind raced with questions, unsure of how to react to the heartbreaking display of vulnerability before him.As he made his exit, slipping away undetected, Michael left without a trace. Mean
Chapter fifty SevenAs the moment unfolded, the air was charged with anticipation and excitement as the speaker transitioned to the next stage, preparing to unveil the portrait that lay concealed beneath a silk cloth.With a flourish, the cover was removed, revealing the artwork in all its glory. However, amidst the collective gasps and murmurs of admiration from the audience, one dissenter, Fiona, let out a scoff, her expression betraying a hint of skepticism.Undeterred by the reaction, the speaker gracefully stepped forward, her voice calm yet resolute. "Before we discuss the price," she began, "I would like to share with you the inspiration behind this painting. It's not merely a figment of imagination; it is steeped in reality."Drawing closer to the frame, she gestured towards the intricate details that adorned the canvas. Each element held a story, a memory, a piece of the artist's soul woven into the fabric of the portrait. "These pictures you see here," she continued, her to
Chapter fifty eightAlice stood there, her heart heavy with conflicting emotions as she processed the exchange with Leo. The butler's firm stance and words echoed in her mind as she considered the implications of returning the portrait. Despite her reluctance, she knew that once a decision had been made, there was no turning back."I am sorry, but as much as I already brought it here, you aren't permitted to return it. And if you do, I am sure the boss will be very angry, so just take it," the butler stated, his voice carrying a sense of finality as he took a deep breath, signaling the end of their conversation.As Leo turned to depart without any further words, Alice was left alone with her thoughts and the portrait in hand. Making her way to her truck, she carefully inspected the artwork, her fingers tracing the delicate lines and colors that adorned its surface. A soft smile graced her features, a mix of gratitude and contemplation lingering in her expression as she reflected on th
Chapter fifty NineAs they lay on the bed, Michael observed Fiona closely, noting the silence that enveloped them after about 15 minutes. Her sudden stillness caught his attention, and when she finally spoke, her words carried a weight of confession and vulnerability.Fiona's admission left Michael stunned, his eyes reflecting a mixture of surprise and understanding. She revealed that she was a victim of Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder, explaining the complexities of her condition and how it affected her intimate relationships. Despite his initial disbelief, Michael chose to listen with empathy, recognizing the courage it took for Fiona to open up to him in such a raw and honest way."I am sorry. I don't get tired quickly, and I can hardly control myself when I am aroused. That's why I haven't been able to open up to any guy. I love you, and that's why I was able to do this with you," Fiona confessed, her voice tinged with a mix of relief and fear of judgment. Michael's heart soften
Epilogue.Mr Thompson has tried all his possible best to make sure Judas's was charged to court. But it was as expected .. As the judge's words echoed through the courtroom, a sense of finality settled over the room. The Judas's eyes locked onto the judge, disbelief and despair etched on their face. Their lawyer's expression turned grim, their eyes cast downward in defeat.The sound of handcuffs clicking into place broke the silence, a harsh reminder of the consequences that lay ahead. The defendant's family rushed forward, tears streaming down their faces as they reached out in desperation.The bailiffs led the Judas away, their footsteps echoing through the courtroom like a death knell. The prosecutor's nod of satisfaction was a stark contrast to the despair that filled the room.As the door closed behind the defendant, the judge's gaze lingered, a hint of empathy flickering in their eyes. The cost of justice had been exacted, but at what price? The courtroom slowly emptied, leaving
Charlie stormed into Detective George's office, his eyes blazing with determination. "I want to see Michael. Now."The detective nodded, leading him to the cell where Michael was being held. As they approached, Charlie's smirk grew wider, his eyes gleaming with triumph."Ah, Michael. Finally. I thought you could escape the world," Charlie said, his tone dripping with sarcasm.Michael looked up, a sly smile spreading across his face. He rose from the cot, his eyes locked onto Charlie's, and began to walk closer, the bars of the cell separating them."You must be thinking you're some kind of hero, feeling overexcited," Michael sneered, his voice laced with mockery.Charlie's smirk never wavered, his eyes flashing with anger. "You're the one who's been playing games, Michael. But the game is over. You've lost."The tension between them was palpable, the air thick with animosity. Michael's eyes gleamed with defiance, but Charlie's gaze remained unwavering, his confidence and determination
Leo drove into his compound, the gates closing behind him. He and Charlie stepped out of the car, walked into the house, and headed straight to the bar. Charlie poured them each a beer, and they settled in for a relaxing evening. The bar was a cozy sanctuary, a place to unwind and leave their worries behind. But just as they were savoring the moment, Leo's phone buzzed with a missed call from the detective. His eyes locked onto the screen, his expression turning serious. .The detective's call was like a sudden interruption, a reminder that life's mysteries and challenges were always just a phone call away. Charlie's eyes lit up as he answered the phone, his voice eager. "Hello, Detective?" He listened intently, his expression changing from curiosity to excitement. "Hey Mr. Thompson, I wanted to inform you that there's progress in the search for Michael and his father," Detective George announced, his voice firm and reassuring. "We received a message from an unknown source, and he's
"Charlie is right. I know it's difficult but we have to leave our past behind us. We have to form one beautiful family. We have sorry everything has to happen kill this" Fiona's words were a gentle plea, a heartfelt appeal to let go of the past and unite as a family. But Judas's response was a bitter rebuke, his voice laced with sarcasm and pain."What do you all know about it?" he sneered, his eyes flashing with anger. "You think forgiveness is just a simple matter of forgetting the past? Forgetting the pain, the struggle, the betrayal? You think it's that easy?"Alice's words were a soft counterpoint, a gentle attempt to soothe Judas's hurt. "Sometimes, we have to let go of the pain, Judas. We can't keep living in the past. We have to move on, for our own sake."But Judas's scoff was a harsh rejection, a bitter laugh that dismissed their naivety. "Move on?" he repeated, his voice dripping with disdain. "You think I can just forget what happened? Forget the feeling of being abandoned
Judas's tone was laced with sarcasm, his words dripping with disdain. "Well, that's impressive, I see how much understanding you're in, after all these years," he said, his eyes rolling in mockery.Mrs. Fiona's face fell, her eyes filled with remorse. "Judas, I know my family has hurt you and your mother. I am very sorry," she apologized, her voice sincere.Judas's laughter was cold and mirthless. "Don't apologize to me... and moreover, I am not haunted. No one can hurt me unless I let them. It was my mother you guys haunted. And I think I blame her for being so simple. I promised myself I'd leave my life of commanding fear," he said, his eyes glinting with a hint of darkness.Charlotte's voice was laced with a hint of desperation. "Judas, please... stop talking about the past. You already told me you have a bargain; will you talk about it since you're not ready to accept us as your family?" she asked, her eyes fixed on him with a mixture of concern and frustration.Judas's smirk was
The family gathered in anticipation, their eyes fixed on the door as they waited for Charlie's arrival. The sound of his car pulling up outside was followed by the creak of the door opening, and Charlie stepped inside with Leo by his side. Judas, his face obscured by a hat, brought up the rear, his confident stride commanding attention.As they approached, the family rose to their feet, their faces filled with expectation. Mrs. Thompson's eyes shone with pride as she embraced Charlie. "Charlie, I know this is big, but I am proud of you. You could go on live TV and say those words out loud," she said, her voice filled with emotion.Charlie's smile was radiant, his eyes gleaming with excitement. "Mom, I this shouldn't be about me. I told you I have something important to tell. And I think we put our attention to it," he began, his voice filled with conviction. The room was electric with tension, the family's hearts pounding in unison as they waited for Charlie's revelation. Leo's eyes
The director's voice broke the silence, signaling the end of the show. "We've come to the end of the show. Please drop your opinions in the comment section."As Charlie stood up to leave the studio, his phone rang out, piercing the silence. He hesitated for a moment, then answered it, his eyes fixed on the screen. "Detective George," he said, his voice firm."Was everything you said true, Charlie?" Detective George's voice came from the other end of the line, laced with a hint of skepticism. "Is that why you wanted me to withdraw the case?"Charlie's eyes narrowed, his grip on the phone tightening. "Every word was true, Detective. And I wanted you to withdraw the case because I knew my family's secrets would only bring more pain and suffering. I wanted to protect my family, no matter the cost."The camera lingered on Charlie's face, capturing the tension and emotion etched on his features. The audience was left wondering what would happen next, their minds racing with questions and th
Charlie sat down, his eyes fixed on the camera lens, a determined look on his face. The studio lights cast a warm glow on his features, and the director's voice was calm and professional. "Mr. Thompson, you're on a live chat. Please, go ahead and say what you have to say to the world."Charlie's expression turned solemn, his voice firm as he began to speak. "I am Charlie Thompson, and I'm here to reveal a long-buried secret in my family. A secret that has haunted us for far too long. Today, I want to talk about my grandfather, James death and his life'."He paused, his eyes scanning the camera lens as if searching for the right words. "For years, we've been told that James was a good man and a very truthful one, but it was entirely a lie."The air was thick with anticipation, the studio silent except for the soft hum of the cameras. Charlie's words hung in the air like a challenge, a promise of revelations to come. The world was watching, and Charlie was ready to expose the secrets t
Charlie walked into Detective George's office, a determined look on his face. The detective gestures him to sit "Detective, I want to withdraw the case against my grandfather."Detective George raised an eyebrow, surprise etched on his face. "Are you sure about this, Charlie? We're talking about a murder investigation here. It's a serious offense."Charlie's eyes locked onto Detective George's, his gaze unwavering. "I'm sure, Detective. I want to withdraw the case. I know it's serious, but I have my reasons."Detective George's expression was skeptical, his brow furrowed in concern. "Are you sure about this, Mr. Charlie? Withdrawing a murder case is not a trivial matter. It's a serious offense, and the legal implications are significant."Charlie's hand on the table clenched into a fist, his jaw set in determination. "I understand that, Detective. But I want to withdraw the case. I can't disclose my reasons, but I assure you, it's the right thing to do."The detective's eyes narrowed,