I wasn’t a fan of physical contact at night and had often not even shared the bed with my deceased wife. Not that she would have ever dreamed of wanting to have me close at night. She never bothered to hide her reluctance to have me near her, least of all when we slept together—unless there was something that she wanted from me.Matilda had asked for my closeness and I’d denied her.The early morning light illuminated her puffy face. Her lashes stuck to her skin with dried tears. She was close, had moved closer in sleep until we were almost touching. I felt the unreasonable desire to touch her—and not in a sexual way. Propped up on my elbow, I watched her peaceful sleep. As with many nights before, Lisa ’s blood-covered body had haunted my dreams. I hardly ever dreamed about the people I’d killed, and yet my dead wife still filled my nights.Matilda stirred, lips parting in a soft sigh. I pushed myself up and swung my legs out of bed, turning my back to her.The bed shifted. I
Matilda POVIt was almost eight in the evening when we finally pulled up the driveway to Leonard ’s mansion, a magnificent three-story brownstone building with white columns supporting the porch, white window frames, and old crooked trees on the front lawn. Leonard parked in one of the double garages on the left.He got out and opened the door for me. My stomach hollowed with nerves. This was my home now, and soon I’d meet the children I’d raise. Leonard ’s hand found its place on my lower back again as he led me toward the magnificent white front door. Someone from his staff had gathered my belongings in the morning and brought them to the house.I released a shaky breath when Leonard put the key in the lock. His eyes cut to me. “This is your home.”I gave him a shaky smile, knowing he meant it. Yet judging by the way he’d handled everything so far, his rules would be the only ones he’d want followed within those walls. I’d have to fight for every bit of power and freedom—h
I walked into the modern, silver-gray meeting room, the smell of freshly brewed coffee and polished leather wafting through the air. The cityscape sparkled seen from the tall windows, a clear indication of the competitive environment I lived in.As I sat down at the shiny mahogany table, I was met with a series of hellos and confident handshakes. The investors, made up of experienced professionals and eager beginners, looked at me with a calculating focus that caused my stomach to tense."Felix , nice to finally meet you face to face," the main investor Marcus said, with his smile just as sleek as his custom suit. "We've been told wonderful things about your... entrepreneurial mindset."I grinned, my thoughts quickly evolving with the significance of this encounter. They desired a portion of my empire, a stake in the profitable transactions and high-risk dealings that had established my reputation in the business realm.While the conversation continued, the atmosphere in the room beca
Upon entering the nightclub, I noticed that the night was quite mild as the crowded venue was filled with individuals dancing, drinking, and rocking out to the loud music.I wasn't focused on any of those antics, I was here for one individual and one individual only. I looked around the place and smiled, seeing his ever energetic self entertaining a group of other people."Who do we have here?" He says, noticing my presence. "I can't believe this! Leonard ! It's been ages " he said engulfing me in the brotherly love.I smiled in return, mirroring the gesture. "Good to see you, Louis ."He left the people he had been entertaining and we made our way to the hallway. He looked around and finally speak."Leonard , I still can't give you enough gratitude for how you saved my life the last time. Like I said, I will always be here to help you whenever you need me." He says."That's why I am here man, I have something important to
The sun hung high in the sky, casting a golden glow over the vast expanse of our large X territory. It was a warm and pleasant day, with a gentle breeze rustling the leaves of the surrounding trees. Myself and the rest of the maids of the bustled about, our hands and feet moving in a coordinated dance as we diligently attended to various various tasks.Ava had organized a small party with some of her friends in her room the previous night, drinking themselves to stupor. I had the thankless task of cleaning up their mess the next morning, while she stepped out with them.“Make sure it's as clean as it was before the party,” she had instructed me before leaving. “Everything must sparkle before I return,” she added, wielding an air of authority.Damn it!It just felt like I was being punished for another person's mistakes! Well, not that I had a choice.I quickly got on with my job. Luckily, I had the strength to undertake them, leaving me with the freedom to observe the diligent work of
As soon as Matilda left my room that evening, I knew the clock was already ticking, moving so fast against me in my bid to keep the one I loved, the one whose heart was my resting place.I quickly got ready and made my way to my father's chamber, ready and determined to tell him the words that I have kept hidden in my heart all these years.It was his study time, and he hated to be disturbed. He had often warned that not even a pin should drop on the floor whilst he study…“My study time is my most precious time, and no one must come between my books and I,” he would often remind Ava and I.But there was nothing ‘threatening’ about his words that day as I stormed to his study, my heart pounding with anger and frustration.“Leonard !,” he said, as soon as the door way way, surprised to see me.“Father,” I just said.“I thought my words were clear about…”“I know, father,” I said, abruptly cutting him short before he could complete the words. “But I must speak to you about something
The early morning air was thick with a chilling mist that hung low among the trees, casting an ethereal glow over the sprawling estate. The scent of dew-kissed grass clung to the breeze, a hint of freshness tingling against the senses. The sky, adorned with hues of lavender and tangerine, promised the arrival of a new day, filled with secrets waiting to unfold.In the heart of this picturesque scene, within the grand manor that stood tall and imposing, I sent for Puertelas, the leader of the maids.“She must return with you,” I sternly said to the guard.The atmosphere crackled with urgency as I eagerly awaited Puertelas' arrival, my mind consumed by a mixture of curiosity and concern.I had no idea if sending for her was the best thing to do, but I knew I had to start from somewhere.Moments later, the door creaked open, and Puertelas entered, her typically composed face marred by a troubled expression. Her eyes widened with surprise and worry as they met my unwavering stare. The air
Lucy and I were sitting on a bench in the garden, enjoying the rare sunshine. We had managed to get done with our routine that morning before the other maids. But we knew we had only a few minutes before we would be summoned back to our duties by the ever demanding Puertelas, who never gets satisfied, even if we had to work our socks off. “How has your relationship with Ava been?,” Lucy asked me, her ears and eyes fixed on ke, as if I had called for a press meeting.“It's just like every other, nothing specia,” I said.“I know she still has eyes on you.”“I don't really give a fuck if she does, for I have no business with her brother. They can both have him for all I care,” I just said. I was already tired of always having to talk about Leonard every time Lucy and I had a conversation.“But I thought you…”“Please can we talk about something else, Lucy?,” I pleaded with her.“If you insist,” she said, sounding resigned.We were so engrossed in our conversation that I did not notic
The tension in the air was palpable as Matilda prepared herself for what Leonard had in store for her. Richard 's eyes shone with a dangerous intensity, his intentions unclear but menacing. Matilda's mind raced with horrible possibilities, each more horrible than the last. She felt a shiver run down her spine as Richard 's laughter echoed in the dimly lit room. Despite her fears, Matilda remains defiant, refusing to show any sign of weakness in the face of Richard 's twisted desires. "I can do more than you imagine and make you hot!" Leonard smiled as he read the expression on Matilda's face. It's really fun teasing Matilda at the moment. Her lips trembled, hoping she wasn't thinking anything. "Are you making me hot?" Would it really roast me alive or burn a part of me? Matilda asked stupidly Although she is a stripper who must know a lot about the tactics of men, unfortunately she is a l
"How dare you?" Leonard roared like a lion as the champagne spilled over his dress and poured freely into his trousers. Matilda was shaking terribly as she searched for towels to clean Leonard clothes and shoes. He had just poured himself a glass of champagne. "I'm so terribly sorry! I was---sss" stammered Matilda , trying to finish her words when Leonard pulled her hair and picked her up. "You are here to pay your brother's debt, but you are clearly unable to do so! Leonard said in a very intimidating voice, letting the lumps fall on Maris's neck. "Please, I feel weak!" He had never felt this way in his entire life as he searched for ways to survive. He felt his strength leave him and let his body fall into Richard 's grip. Everyone's eyes in the VIP room widened. "This girl is really doomed," commented one of them and motioned for Leo
They'd been able to not only beat Broadway Enterprise's weakness but also strengthen theirs. "To say the least, I'm quite impressed with this proposal, and so is everyone here today, as such, we wouldn't have any other company partnering with us other than F and A. Congratulations, Richard and Matilda , your intelligence is meritorious. I see why you're a couple now," he added with a smile. "I'll have my lawyer get the agreement ready for you for your signature in the next 48 hours. Congratulations again."With that, Leonard left, and a few others commented about Matilda 's intelligence, and how lucky Richard was to have her by his side, one of whom was Ryan Porter."From the day I saw you at the party, I knew you were one intelligent woman. Congratulations, Matilda . Richard also, you got yourself a gem. If she weren't hooked with you, I might have stolen her away. Good luck with the project." Richard 's jaw hardened at Ryan's words. His heart sank also. R
"What are you doing, Richard ?" She asked the moment one hand cupped her face, while the other slid down the curve of her waist. Her question came out as a whisper, which surprised her. "Helping you relax around me. We can't go to the meeting with you looking like this.""Like how?"Richard leaned closer to her, bringing his lips to her ear and her body jolted as his hot breath fanned her skin. "Like a simple touch from me will send a wave of electricity through you. One simple touch, like this." The hand that was on her waist found her fingers and he intertwined his with hers, which were already clammy. Matilda shut her eyes in pleasure and pressed her lips in a firm line to prevent herself from making even the slightest sound. He buried his face in her neck, inhaling her inviting flowery scent. The impulse to trail his lips up her neck tugged at his heart, but he acted against it. Instead, he just stood there, registering her scent in his mind and trying to decipher w
Four months went by since that fateful evening, and Richard 's iciness had become even more noticeable. The unbearable emotional gap between us led me to detach from our dying relationship's toxic hold gradually. I kept track of the days until the contract would end. He already possessed the inheritance and the agreements. Our partnership was supposed to be over by now, but it isn't able to.In the meantime, Leonard and I had become even closer, reigniting the strong connection we had maintained since we were kids. We dedicated numerous hours to each other, reflecting on past memories and creating new ones.Melissa came back from her journey overseas, infusing our group of friends with a sense of excitement and joy.In celebration of Melissa 's hard-earned diploma, we opted to meet at a quaint bar located on the edge of the city. I quickly freshened up and then hurried to the bar. I was running behind because I was assisting Richard with organizing his documents."Melissa !" she
When my time with Leonard was up that evening, I chose to make a decision that could alter my future significantly. I summoned up my bravery and met his gaze, speaking with conviction.Leonard , I appreciate all that you've done. Would you mind giving me a lift?Fear was evident on Leonard 's face as he considered my request. "Are you certain, keeping in mind his possible reaction?" he inquired, worried about how his words may come across.I let out a slow breath, calling upon my inner power. I am able to deal with Richard by myself. "It will all be okay."He nodded in agreement as his eyes softened with comprehension. "Okay, if you're certain." "I will transport you to your residence."While starting the car journey, Leonard grabbed the radio and switched it to a station he knew. The gentle tune of my preferred song enveloped the car, creating a mix of emotions that matched my inner turmoil.While the music played, a query escaped from my mouth. Leonard , when are we able to
I was frozen in shock, speechless, as Richard 's words lingered in the air like a thick mist. For years, we have been close friends, sharing jokes, secrets, and even playful flirting. However, his unexpected question left me speechless and confused. Is it impossible for him to ever have me? His question's consequences made me shudder.I felt a swirl of confusion in my head while attempting to understand his abrupt question. Before I had a chance to collect my thoughts and reply, Richard appeared to dismiss it, as though he hadn't just posed such a deep question to me. He proposed finishing the day by having ice cream at his house, trying to shift the conversation to a more cheerful subject.Declining his offer politely, I managed to force a faint smile and replied, "Thank you, Richard , but I believe I should leave."He nodded, a brief flicker of disappointment appearing on his face. Noticing the discomfort between us, he proposed to accompany me to the entrance of the amusement park
With a slightly trembling voice, she spoke up, my words now carrying a hint of confidence. "Leonard , I put on the lingerie like you requested." "Now, please enlighten me, what exactly do you desire from me?"While we glared at each other intensely, I silently vowed to control the situation according to my wants and limits. I had learned that real power comes from accepting my own vulnerability, even when things are uncertain.Leonard continued to hold on to his unfeeling attitude, remaining adamant in his penchant for mocking others.I felt a shiver down my back as his face became stern, his eyes narrowing with a touch of contempt. He clutched my hand tighter, his voice filled with scorn.Leonard mocked, saying, "I warned you it wouldn't look good on you," in a tone filled with bitterness. "You believed that wearing just a lingerie set could make me interested in you... turns out, it didn't work."I felt a wave of disappointment and hurt as my heart dropped, replacing the warmth I
She tried on the dresses one at a time, with each one more captivating than the previous one. The gentle materials hugged my body's natural contours, as intricate elements shimmered in the light, producing a stunning exhibition. I spun around and looked at myself in the mirror, wishing to see a hint of love in Leonard 's gaze. However, his calm facial expression stayed unchanged as he stood just outside the fitting room, serving as a constant indication of his emotional disconnection.I put on a different dress and gazed at myself in the mirror once more. While fixing my appearance, I noticed Leonard 's gaze in the mirror. His eyes held a gentleness, showing a hint of kindness that was previously absent. The teasing and coldness had become gentler, giving way to a more tender emotion.Leonard spoke at last, his voice lacking any enthusiasm as he commented, "You appear pleasant." "Perhaps this one is overly glittery," he said, pointing to a dress decorated with detailed beadwork