《Her Return, His Regret》


 Chapter 1~ Leaving in the middle of the night

    "Congrattions, you''re pregnant!"


    Larisa seemed a little absent-minded tonight... all she could think about was what the doctor had said to her that afternoon.


    "What are you thinking about?" Ryan asked as he unbuttoned his shirt.


    Looking at Ryan''s sexy chest, Larisa blushed. They had been married for three years, but every time she saw Ryan''s nakedness, Larisa couldn''t help but be shy. Without waiting for Larisa''s answer, Ryan turned and went to take a shower.


    When she heard the shower go on, Larisa opened the drawer and pulled out a pregnancy test report.


    In the afternoon, she had gone to the hospital because she was unwell. She thought it was an ordinary stomach ache, but the doctor told her that she was pregnant.


    Finally, after three years of trying, she was finally going to have a baby!


    She beamed and held the report to her chest as she waited for her husband to finish his shower.


    They had been married for three years, however, their marriage remained a secret to the outside world.


    Even though they had not made it public since they got married, and even though others thought she was just his secretary, she still felt very sweet. She could already imagine herself with a little baby in her arms.


    With a huge smile on her face, she decided to tell her husband the news. She couldn''t wait to see his reaction when he learned about her pregnancy.


    Minutester, Ryan had juste out of the bathroom when Larisa excitedly rushed to his side.


    "Ryan, I''ve got something to tell you," she stated, holding the document in her hands. Her heart was pounding erratically in her chest from the excitement she was feeling.


    "Oh, what is it?" Ryan asked with an arched eyebrow, his gray eyes studying her.


    "Well, you won''t believe it. After so long, I''m finally-"


    Unfortunately, Ryan''s phone started ringing, stopping Larisa''s words mid-sentence. He furrowed his eyebrows and went to the balcony to pick up the call.


    Larisa nced at her phone and saw that it was almost twelve o''clock in the middle of the night. Who could be calling Ryan? Larisa felt inexplicably uneasy. Whatever the person who called said made Ryan change his expression. He was no longer calm and he looked a bit anxious when he returned from the balcony. "I''ming," he said to whoever was on the other side of the phone.


    Larisa''s heart sank when Ryan quickly changed his clothes and began to walk away. She ran after him and called out, "Wait! Ryan. It''s toote, you can''t-" "Something important hase up," Ryan replied without looking back at her.


    Before Larisa could tell him she had good news, Ryan was already out the door.


    It seemed he was in a hurry to get wherever he wanted to go.


    Larisa stood at the door, her heart clenching in pain. It had always been like this. Ryan never put her first.


    It didn''t matter if she had an important issue to discuss with him or if she just wanted to spend time with him, to him, she always camest.


    The only time he gave her attention was when he wanted to sleep with her. Afterwards, they lived like strangers.


    Larisa thought having a child would improve their rtionship and that was why she was excited to share the news with Ryan.


    However, just like always, he left without hearing what she had to say.


    A few hours passed and Larisa couldn''t fall asleep. She was in bed when she received a call from her best friend, Bianca Jones.


    "Hey, Lisa, are you in a wheelchair now?" Bianca asked on the phone.


    Larisa furrowed her eyebrows at her friend''s question. She replied, "No, I''m not. Why would you ask me that?"


    "Strange, I just saw someone who looks like Ryan. He went into a fancy restaurant while pushing a woman in a wheelchair. I thought you were with him." Larisa''s eyes widened. ''A woman? Who could that be?'' She thought in her mind.


    "I might be wrong anyway," Bianca added.


    When the call cut, Larisa''s heart felt heavy for some reason. She was about to put her phone away when a piece of gossip news popped up on her notifications.


    It had something to do with jewelry design, so she developed an interest in the news.


    [The famous jewelry designer Ivy Williams has returned. A mysterious male friend apanies her.]


    The man''s name was not mentioned in the news. But the news stated that Ivy was apanied by the Moonstone City''s most eligible bachelor who was also a billionaire. Although the picture of the couple wasn''t clear, Larisa recognised the man. It was Ryan, her husband.


    Ivy was back.


    Larisa''s heart pounded hard as she read thements that praised the lovely couple.


    "Miss Williams might be in a wheelchair but she''s still elegant and sophisticated. Her fiance is rich and looks handsome too. I wish I could see his face."


    "Miss Williams is back! Are we about to get a new collection of her jewelry? It''s been so long since we got new designs from her. I can''t wait!"


    "Who''s the rich guy she''s with? Are they getting married soon?"


    "I managed to get a close-up photo. He''s so handsome!"


    As it turned out, Bianca was right after all. The man she saw with another woman was none other than Ryan Kingsley.


    Larisa''s heart felt like it had been stabbed by a knife.Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    So he left his wifete at night just to pick up his ex-girlfriend, his first love, his beloved as soon as he knew she returned to the country?

 Chapter 2~ A mistress

    In the morning, Larisa got up and went to thepany on time although she didn''t sleep all night.


    "Have you seen the news? Ivy Williams has returned!" Tatiana Jenkins, one of the employees at the Kingsley group, remarked.


    She was talking to her friend while they waited to get into the elevator. Behind them, Larisa kept quiet as they continued to talk about her as though she was invisible.


    "You mean that jewelry designer?" The other colleague, Judy Brooks, asked.


    "Yeah, she''s not just an ordinary jewelry designer, she''s also the only girlfriend our boss has ever admitted to dating in public. I heard she''s his first love."


    "Wow, but isn''t it rumored that our boss and Larisa have some-?"


    "Of course, not! She was just a mistress!"


    "Haha! What a failure. She thought sleeping her way to the top would make the boss fall in love with her. Now that the woman that he loves has returned, I''m sure she''s not only going to lose her position as the mistress, she''s also going to lose her job." Larisa clenched her hands into fists. She gritted her teeth but didn''t say anything. After all, her marriage was a secret only known to Ryan and his family.


    She was Ryan''s personal assistant but no one knew that the two had been married for three years.


    Everyone just assumed she was Ryan''s mistress because of how close they were. However, Ryan never corrected them and Larisa had no right to correct them either. Ryan made her promise to keep their marriage a secret.


    The doors to the elevator opened and they all entered the elevator. Tatiana and Judy shared a look before continuing their conversation.


    "If I were her, I would resign on my own. It''s clear the boss has someone he loves. It''s so degrading to cling to him like a desperate chick," Tatiana said, her words full of mockery.


    "Hey... chill. She can hear you," Judy whispered loudly andughed.


    It seemed they were having fun at Larisa''s predicament. They had been among the many women who were jealous of her closeness with Ryan Kingsley. Now that his real woman had returned, they found an opportunity to ridicule Larisa. "I''m just saying the truth. She''s a mistress who''s about to be abandoned now that the future Mrs Kingsley has returned to the city," Tatiana stated.


    Larisa clenched her hands into fists at those words.


    Mistress?


    She was the rightful wife! And yet, she couldn''t even say that loud.


    Larisa pursed her lips, her heart aching. Ryan had not returned home the previous night. He didn''t even have the decency to call her to let her know of his ns.


    She concluded that he had spent the night with his ex-girlfriend. Just thinking about it made her feel like a cat was wing at her heart.


    Her colleagues mocking words echoed in her ears and her throat ran dry. She was the legal wife but she couldn''t even speak out to defend her position. Could she even defend her position?


    How can she defend something that wasn''t hers to begin with?


    It didn''t take long for Larisa to arrive at the CEO''s office. However, she wasn''t in the mood to work that day. So, she went to the office to ask Ryan for leave to go home.


    Sure enough, when she knocked and entered his office, she found him seated in his swivel chair wearing different clothes from the ones he wore the previous night. "You''rete," Ryan said in a cold deep voice.


    "Yes... I sleptte. I''vee to ask for a one-day leave," Larisa requested, trying hard to hold back her tears.


    He didn''t even look bothered that he slept out.


    "Why? Are you sick?" Ryan asked nonchntly, his gray eyes studying Larisa''s frame.


    "I''m not feeling well," Larisa replied, trying to swallow the lump in her throat.


    The thing is... she wanted to ask him where he had spent the night but she didn''t want to know that he had spent it with another woman.


    Thinking about it and hearing it from the horse''s mouth were two different things.


    "Ok," Ryan replied and when Larisa didn''t move, he arched an eyebrow and asked, "Anything else?"


    Larisa shook her head. She couldn''t help but feel disappointed. Ryan didn''t even attempt to exin where he had spent the night. He was acting like what he had done was normal.


    With a broken heart, she left thepany and went to the parking lot. However, she bumped into someone in thepany''s underground parking lot.


    It was none other than Ivy Williams- the woman of Ryan Kingsley''s dreams.


    In that wheelchair, she looked very vulnerable, giving the people around her the urge to want to protect her. She was moving her smart wheelchair and stopped in front of Larisa, blocking her way. "So, you''re Larisa, Ryan''s wife? I''m Ivy. Nice to meet you," Ivy said.N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    Larisa turned pale, she didn''t expect to meet Ivy so soon.


    "Thank you for taking care of Ryan in the past three years," Ivy added with a smile on her face.


    Larisa internally scoffed! She made it sound like she was just a caretaker! Was she indirectly asking her to back off now that the owner had returned?


    "You don''t need to thank me for doing my duty as his wife," Larisa replied through gritted teeth.


    She felt sorry for the woman since she was in a wheelchair but she felt like her statement was a mockery of the real situation of her rtionship with Ryan.


    Ivy smiled gently. She replied, "Of course. See you around."


    She began to wheel herself away when her phone slipped from herp and dropped to the ground. Looking at Larisa, she asked, "Can you help me pick up my phone? I can''t reach it as you can see." Larisa nodded and approached Ivy. However, just when she crouched down to pick up the phone, Ivy suddenly fell on the ground and screamed.


    "What happened-"


    "Ouch! That hurt!" Ivy cried as blood trickled down her face, making Larisa''s eyes widen in horror.


    "What the-"


    "IVY!" A deep voice resonated in the area.


    Larisa''s heart skipped a beat when she heard that familiar voice. It belonged to her husband and she had never heard him sound so worried before.


    He rushed towards them and held Ivy in his arms. When he saw the blood dripping from her forehead, his eyebrows furrowed in anger. He red at Larisa coldly, giving her the chills. Wait did he think she did it?


    Larisa''s eyes widened in shock when she realised what was happening. She was being framed!


    "Ryan! I swear, I didn''t push her-"


    "Get lost!" Ryan yelled and pushed Larisa whonded on her ass.


    He carried Ivy bridal style, his eyes filled with worry. He looked at her and whispered gently, "Don''t worry, I''ll take you to the hospital."

 Chapter 3~ Lets part ways

    "What the hell is going on?" Ryan asked Ivy after the doctor attended to her. Guilt crept into him as he looked at the bandage on her forehead. "I''m sorry. I don''t know why Larisa has changed. She used to be so kind." When he went to the parking lot, he thought he saw Larisa pulling Ivy out of the wheelchair. He got so nervous that Ivy would get hurt.


    After all, she hurt her legs because of him. He wouldn''t want her to get hurt because his wife got jealous.


    "I hope you can forgive her. She usually doesn''t get worked up," Ryan added.


    They were in a VIP hospital room with Ivy lying on the small hospital bed since they had left her wheelchair.


    Ivy smiled and grabbed Ryan''s hand, saying, "Hey, don''t get it wrong. This is not Larisa''s fault. I fell on my own... it seems my wheelchair has some problems."


    Ryan''s eyes widened slightly. He asked, "Are you saying Larisa didn''t push you?"


    Ivy shook her head, biting her lower lip. She replied, "No, she didn''t push me. Please don''t me her for this. I don''t want the two of you to have a misunderstanding because of me."


    Ryan furrowed his eyebrows. He recalled how he had roughly pushed Larisa away. He didn''t even turn to see if she had hurt herself when she fell on the ground.


    Who knew he had misread everything and med her for something she didn''t do?


    Guilt crept into him. ''Come to think of it, I overreacted without finding out what happened,'' he mused.


    "I had no idea..." He murmured.


    Ivy gave him a sweet smile and said, "You should go to her and clear up the misunderstanding."


    Ryan nced at Ivy. He thought Ivy was still as considerate as she used to be. Nodding, he uttered, "I''ll go and see her but first, let me take you home. We left your wheelchair at thepany. I''ve called someone to get you a new one since that one is faulty." "Ok... I can wait alone though... don''t leave Larisa alone for too long," Ivy remarked.


    "Don''t worry about it. I''ll exin to her and she will understand," Ryan replied.


    ...


    Meanwhile, Larisa met her best friend at a cafe before going home.N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    "What? You''re pregnant?" Bianca''s eyes widened into saucers. "That''s incredible news!"


    A sad smile crossed Larisa''s lips. She said, "I don''t know if it is... you were right aboutst night. The man you saw was Ryan. It turns out the woman he was with is the woman he has always been in love with."


    "What the hell?" Bianca hissed. She clenched her hands into fists and asked, "Is he cheating on you with his old love?"


    "I don''t know. I always knew there was no love between us but it hurts to confirm it. Perhaps I should do what I have been dying to do all this while," Larisa responded, her heart clenching.


    "Are you crazy? Why would you leave your marriage? Especially now that you found out you''re pregnant? Being a single mother is tough, hun. I say, get rid of that homewrecker. You''re the legal wife here!" Bianca proimed. "If you can''t tell her off, I can do it for you." "And then what, Bee?" Larisa shook her head. "You should have seen how worried he looked when he thought I had pushed her. He didn''t hesitate to push me for her sake. I don''t think I can handle seeing him defend her... moreover, I can only keep a man who wants to be kept."


    Bianca felt bad for her friend. She nodded and remarked, "Try to tell him about your pregnancy. I''m sure the temporal excitement he''s having at seeing his old love will disappear once he knows he has a child on the way."


    Larisa ced a hand on her belly and caressed it slightly. She recalled how hard Ryan had pushed her away. He didn''t even try to check on her to see if she was ok... what if he didn''t want to have a child with her?


    He may end up asking her to get rid of the baby so that he could be with the love of his life.


    Shaking her head, Larisa said, "I''m not going to tell him about the pregnancy. He never wanted to marry me in the first ce... I''m sure having a child with me is thest thing he would want right now. I''ll only get in the way of his happiness." Bianca sighed heavily. She realised that Larisa had made up her mind, so there was no use in talking her out of it.


    "I''ll support whatever decision you make, hun. Just know that I want you to be happy," she remarked.


    ...


    A little whileter, Ryan returned home and found Larisa waiting for him in the living area. Looking at her, he recalled how he treated her earlier and his heart waspletely filled with guilt. "Larisa, look, about earlier, I''m-"


    "I''ve got something to tell you, Ryan," Larisa said, cutting off Ryan''s words.


    She had a look of determination on her face as she got to her feet and gave Ryan the documents she had in her hands.


    Ryan frowned in confusion as he looked at the documents. He asked, "What is this? Is it work? Can''t it wait till tomorrow? I wanted to us to talk about-"


    "No, it can''t wait. These documents are my resignation and divorce papers. Let''s part ways, Ryan. It''s been long overdue," Larisa proimed. "Let''s get a divorce."

 Chapter 4~ Kidnapped

    A divorce?


    Ryan couldn''t believe his ears.


    That wasn''t a word he was expecting to hearing out of Larisa''s mouth.


    He took a look at the documents in his hands and sure enough, they were divorce papers and Larisa''s resignation letter.


    He red at Larisa and questioned, "Are you throwing a tantrum because of what happened earlier today? Is that why you''re giving me these documents?"


    Larisa shook her head and replied, "It''s not that. I''ve been wanting to have a divorce for a long time now. Now that Ivy is back, you can freely be with the woman you love." Ryan scoffed. He tore the documents in half, making Larisa gasp.


    "Why did you do that? You don''t love me, why won''t you divorce me?" She yelled.


    There was a desperation in her voice that even she was aware of. Her heart was racing and aching at the same time.


    This was because, in their three years of marriage, Ryan never loved her. He had never opened up to her or showed her any affection.


    Larisa was madly in love with him and that''s why she agreed to marry him, hoping that if she was devoted to him and loved him unconditionally, he would learn to love her.


    s... three years had passed and Ryan''s heart was still as cold as ice. No matter how much she tried, Larisa couldn''t make her husband love her.


    "Please, Ryan. Let me go so that you can be happy," Larisa added in a low voice, her eyes watering with tears.


    "Never. Divorce? You want a divorce?" Ryan sneered. "After ruining my life you think you can just wake up and demand to divorce? In your dreams, Larisa."


    "Why? Don''t you want to be with Ivy? Isn''t it why you spent the night with herst night?" Larisa couldn''t help but yell.


    "Ah... so this is what this is all about? This is no time for unnecessary jealousy, Larisa. I didn''t do anything with her... Ivy wasn''t feeling well after her wee party and I had to stay with her in the hospital. She was discharged in the morning," Ryan exined. Larisa clenched her hands into fists. She spat, "I don''t care about your exnations. There''s no love between us. It''s better to end this marriage."


    Ryan got closer to Larisa and grabbed her chin. Tilting her head up to stare into her hazel eyes, he dered, "I''m the one who''s going to say when this marriage will end. I don''t ever want to hear you speak about divorce, you hear me?"


    "The woman you love is back and it''s clear you will never fall in love with me, why dy the inevitable?" Larisa questioned, tears rolling down her cheeks.


    Her heart ached.


    She felt like someone was squeezing it with a metallic hand.


    Ryan didn''t love her but he didn''t want to let go of her regardless. It was hard to tell what he really wanted. He wanted to be with Ivy, right? Isn''t that why he rushed to her the moment she returned?


    Ryan''s eyes softened when he saw the tears in Larisa''s eyes. He cupped her face and wiped them away with his thumbs before saying, "No one is getting a divorce. Grandpa loves you. Let''s not worry him with petty issues."Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Larisa was about to reply when suddenly, she smelt a pungent smell emitting from Ryan''s suit. It was a female perfume that she assumed belonged to Ivy Williams.


    The perfume was repulsive, apanied by the knowledge of who it belonged to, Larisa heaved and mped a hand over her mouth.


    She pulled back from Ryan and rushed to the kitchen since it was the nearest.


    At the same time, Ryan furrowed his eyebrows. He followed Larisa and found her puking her guts out in the sink.


    "Are you ok?" He asked as he approached her and helped to hold her hair back as she vomited.


    When she was done and rinsed everything off. Her heart raced... she didn''t know if Ryan had realised she was pregnant.


    "What''s wrong? Why are you suddenly vomiting?" Ryan asked again.


    "Um... I had some spoilt food earlier today," Larisa made an excuse.


    Ryan narrowed his eyes down at Larisa. "You''re always careful with what you eat, Larisa. Are you hiding something from me?" Larisa''s heart pounded hard against her ribcage and her stomach formed knots.


    ''Has he found out?'' She asked in her mind.


    Ryan studied Larisa for a minute. He could tell that she was pale and she looked like she had gained a little weight.


    His eyebrows creased as he remarked, "Wait... are you-"


    Larisa let out a sigh of relief when Ryan''s phone suddenly rang, interrupting his words.


    Ryan frowned and answered the call, "Hello-"


    "Mr Kingsley, Miss Williams is missing!" The voice said on the phone.


    Ryan''s eyes widened in shock. "What? I''ming!"


    He didn''t even spare Larisa a nce and before she knew what was happening, he had already dashed out of the house with a look of worry on his face. Larisaughed at herself. ''And here I thought he didn''t want to divorce me because he had some feelings for me. Turns out it''s my wishful thinking.''


    At the mention of something happening to Ivy Williams, Ryan almost flew out of the mansion just to go and look for her.


    Larisa wondered if Ryan would have that same look on his face if she were the one who was missing.


    She left the kitchen and was about to head upstairs to the master bedroom. However, she suddenly felt a sharp pain on the back of her head and was plunged into darkness.

 Chapter 5~ His choice

    Larisa woke up and found herself tied to a chair. It looked like she was in an abandoned warehouse.


    She recalled having been hit by a sharp object before she lost consciousness. Could she have been kidnapped? Immediately, fear crept into her. She yelled, "Where am I? Help! Help me!"


    "Larisa, calm down. Shouting won''t help... trust me, I tried," A familiar voice reached Larisa''s ears.


    She turned her head to the right and found Ivy tied to a chair just like her. Her eyes widened in horror.


    "What''s going on here? Why have we both been kidnapped?" Larisa asked, her heart racing wildly in her chest.


    In her heart, she was worried about the safety of the baby she was carrying in her womb. If anything bad happened to her, she could lose her child.


    "Good question," a man''s voice echoed in the warehouse.


    Larisa turned to the source of the voice and her heart raced when she saw four thugs approaching them.


    One of the thugs who looked like the leader stepped forward. He had a bald head and yellow teeth. One could smell the alcohol reeking from his body from a mile away.


    "Don''t worry, Larisa. Ryan wille and save us," Ivy said confidently.


    ''Yes, Ryan, my husband,'' Larisa mused, her eyes filled with hope.


    However, when she saw Ivy who was also kidnapped, her hope dimmed again.


    Larisa pursed her lips as she recalled how Ryan rushed out after hearing of Ivy''s disappearance. She thought bitterly, ''He would probably onlye for Ivy. I''m nothing to himpared to her.''


    It didn''t take long for Ryan to arrive at the warehouse. He walked in and stopped in his tracks when he saw the two women tied up in front of him.


    He clenched his hands into fists and red at the thugs. "Let them go! It''s me that you have an issue with. Leave the women out of it."


    "That was fast. It looks like these two women are very important to you," The leader said as he yed with the knife in his hand.


    "Let them go now," Ryan ordered again.


    "No can do. Since they seem so important to you, they have be a part of this issue," the thug remarked. "I''ll give you a chance to save one of them. The other one will remain with us as a hostage." "Are you kidding me?" Ryan growled.


    "You save one or none at all," the thug stated. Heughed and said, "Oh, Ryan Kingsley, I would love to see who you will choose. I was going to have a little fun but I suddenly have the urge to know who you love more between the two." Ryan coiled his hands into fists. He clenched his jaw as he nced at the two frightened women.


    "Ryan, choose Larisa. She''s your wife! Don''t worry about me..." Ivy Williams remarked, looking up at Ryan with sad eyes.


    She looked pale and weak. But she was still so kind and thought about Larisa wholeheartedly.


    Ryan''s heart was filled with guilt. His balled fists tightened, threatening to draw blood from his palms.


    "Go on, Ryan. You''re allowed to save one woman. The clock is ticking."


    Ryan hissed, his gaze wandering between the two women. Larisa''s heart pounded hard in her chest when she saw his gaze.


    However, Ryan only nced at her briefly, and then said to the thug, "Release Ivy."


    Larisa''s heart sank to her feet.


    "Are you sure? Is that your choice?" The thug asked, a huge grin stering his face. He was enjoying this.


    Ryan''s jaw clenched harder. His face was devoid of any emotion as he repeated, "Yes, I choose Ivy."


    Larisa''s whole world came crumbling down beneath her feet. She knew this would happen but a part of her hoped Ryan would choose her. After all, she was his rightful wife.


    Seeing him choose another woman and leaving her to be the thug''s hostage hurt more than she could imagine.


    ''Ryan... was I really nothing to you?'' She mused as tears rolled down her cheeks.


    "Ryan, it seems that you are as ruthless as rumored." The thug remarked and smiled wickedly. "Are you ok with leaving the other woman with us?"N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    "Let Ivy go," Ryan demanded coldly.


    The thug chuckled darkly and untied the rope from Ivy''s body. Ryan immediately took Ivy into his arms, cradling her to his chest like she was a porcin doll that would break if it dropped to the ground. "Ryan, you should choose Larisa. I''m a cripple and I''m going to be in a wheelchair for the rest of my life. I''m no use to you," Ivy said in a soft voice.


    "Don''t worry, I''ll get you out of here," Ryan promised before carrying her out of the warehouse.


    Larisa had no words. Her heart was broken into a million pieces. The only thing she was worried about was her innocent baby who would be killed because of her foolish love for Ryan.


    If she could turn back time, she would never give her heart to such a cold-hearted man.


    "Since Ryan has made his choice, I have no intention of letting you live," the thug dered, ying with his knife as he nced at Larisa.


    "Go ahead. What are you waiting for?" Larisa hissed, ring at the thug.


    "I thought you would beg for your life... I wouldn''t have let you go anyway," the thugughed.


    He instructed his minions to douse the ce with fuel.


    "But boss, is this the right thing to do?" One of them asked.


    "She wants her gone," the thug replied.


    Larisa heard that but she had no energy to think about what he meant. Her heart was bleeding. Until the very end, she was never Ryan''s first choice. Why did she live like this? Why did she allow Ryan to treat her like trash? She knew these were herst moments and she had so many regrets. "Hey, Miss, anyst words?" The thug asked Larisa, grinning widely.


    Larisa''s eyes fluttered shut, epting her fate....


    Boom!


    A powerful explosion shook the ground.


    Ryan who was running back to the warehouse was thrown back by the sheer force of the powerful explosion.


    He looked in shock at the warehouse in front of him, which had turned into a sea of fire, eating up the whole building.


    Larisa, his wife was still in the warehouse.


    "Larisa!!"


    "NO!!!" Ryan''s anguished cry pierced through the air.

 Chapter 6~ The lost daughter

    Chapter 6 The lost daughter


    Six yearster...


    The Moonstone City''s most prestigious events center was buzzing with activity.


    This was because the owners of the biggest jewelrypany, Davis & Co, had returned to the country to introduce their long-lost daughter to the world.


    Jack Davis, a renowned jewelry designer, was a powerful man who had built his family''s jewelry business and created wealth for himself.


    He had always led the fashion trends in the jewelry world. People were always raving about the jewelry he designed.


    However, he went abroad with his wife some years ago. People regretted that they lost the opportunity to form connections with the Davis family.


    Finally, the Davis family announced their return.


    Many of the distinguished men and women of Moonstone City wanted to rub shoulders with Jack Davis, the CEO of Davis & Co. They showed up in luxury cars and brought expensive gifts to impress the family.


    A reporter from KB Entertainment stood in front of the camera as she live-streamed the event.


    "Ladies and gentlemen, we are gathered at the biggest event of the year where the CEO of Davis & Co. will introduce his one and only daughter to the world. Everyone is eager to meet Miss Davis, including Moonstone City''s most eligible bachelor, Ryan Kingsley, who is apanied by his fiancee, Ivy Williams. It seems the esteemed CEO is also interested in meeting the lost daughter of the Davis family...."


    As the reporter continued, a tall handsome man in a dark tailor-made suit walked through the doors and entered the hall. He scoffed when he heard the reporter''s words.


    He wasn''t ''interested'' in meeting the lost daughter. His goal was to form a partnership with Jack Davis for his new jewelrypany.


    The man was none other than, Ryan Kingsley, the CEO of the Kingsley group. He was tall with dark hair and a sharp angr jaw that could cut a diamond. He had a trimmed, neat beard that gave him a sexy, manly look. "Ryan, over here!" A soft voice called out from one side of the hall.


    Ryan nced over and saw Ivy Williams. He smiled and approached her, asking, "Have you talked to Mr Davis yet?"


    Ivy chuckled awkwardly. She had left earlier on to see Mr Davis but she was sent back by his security. Everyone who wanted to see the man had to wait until the event. It didn''t help that her father knew him.


    "I just decided to wait for him right here. Don''t worry, Ryan. I''ll help you secure a partnership with Mr Davis. He''s my father''s friend, so he will have to give me some face," Ivy said.


    Ryan shoved his hands into his pockets and nodded. He had no choice but to rely on Ivy since his efforts to contact Jack Davis were futile. It seemed the man was purposefully ignoring him for some reason.


    It didn''t take long for the MC to announce that Mr Davis had arrived and everyone''s attention shifted to the doors.


    A minuteter, a man in his fifties walked through the doors with an elegant woman by his side. It was his wife, Freya Davis, who was also a famous jewelry designer.


    "There he is,e, let''s go and say hi. I''ll introduce him to you," Ivy said confidently.


    Ryan nodded and pushed Ivy''s wheelchair. They approached Jack Davis and his wife when they stopped to greet a few guests.


    Ivy smiled and called out, "Uncle Davis!"


    Jack Davis turned his head when he heard someone calling him. He frowned when he saw that it was Ivy. "Remember me? I''m the daughter of-"


    "Good evening," Jack Davis brushed Ivy off with a greeting and proceeded without sparing Ryan a nce.


    Ivy''s face turned as red as a tomato. She didn''t expect Jack Davis to ignore her in front of all these people.


    "I thought you said you were family friends?" Ryan asked, finding it odd that Jack ignored Ivy who imed to know him on a personal level.


    "Perhaps he doesn''t recognise me.... Since I''m a cripple now," Ivy murmured, her words making Ryan frown.


    "Forget it. I''ll get through to him after the event," Ryan replied gently.


    "Ladies and gentlemen." Jack Davis got on the stage and grabbed the microphone. "You''re all wee."


    The lively crowd immediately fell quiet, and everyone looked at the Davis couple on the stage.


    "Thank you all for your support. Davis Group is moving its business center back to the country from today, Jack announced.


    The crowd erupted in cheers. Even though people knew the news when they epted the invitation, they were not stingy with their enthusiasm.


    "Now, let me introduce you to my long-lost daughter. Please wee to the stage, Lora Davis!"N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    uto


    Suddenly, there was amotion at the entrance. A woman walked into the hall and immediately grabbed everyone''s attention.


    She was dressed elegantly. Her skin was fair and she had her dark brown hair pulled into an elegant updo. She was wearing an open-back sapphire blue evening gown with light makeup on her face that brought out her beautiful features. Ryan turned to have a look at what everyone was looking at. However, when he saw the woman who was entering the hall, his jaw dropped to the floor and his eyes widened.


    ''Larisa?'' He thought in his mind.


    Was he dreaming? The woman looked so much like his dead wife, Larisa Bet,


    Like Ryan, Ivy was equally shocked. She looked pale and murmured, "Is that Larisa? How''s that possible? She''s dead!"


    However, Ryan didn''t respond. His gaze was fixed on the goddess-like woman who looked so much like his wife.


    Ivy''s heart sank when she noticed that Ryan''s attention had been taken by the mysterious woman. She clenched her hands into fists as fear crept into her... who was that woman and why did she look like Larisa?


    The crowd erupted in apuse as Lora Davis got up the stage gracefully. She approached her father with a smile on her face.


    Taking the microphone, she smiled at the audience and said, "Hello everyone, I am Lora Davis. I am back and I''ll be taking over as the CEO of Davis & Co. Jewelry Company from now on."


    Hello lovely readers. I hope you like my new book. Please leave reviews to let me know what you think. This book is a standalone

 Chapter 7~ Strangers

    Chapter 7- Strangers


    Ryan was stunned.


    Everything about the woman on the stage reminded him of his dead wife.


    Her face, her body, her voice... there was an uncanny resemnce between the two women.


    He frowned as he watched Lora Davis give her speech.


    ''Larisa, is that you?'' He asked in his mind and aplicated look crossed his face.


    Lora Davis finished her speech and got down the stage. The MC then announced that she was to open the dance floor with her malepanion, Jason Anderson, a mysterious young man who appeared to be a handsome new face in Moonstone City. He was tall with a lean body and he had sandy brown hair with brown eyes.


    The man, dressed in a three-piece gray suit, walked towards Lora with a charming smile. In front of everyone, he held out his hand to Lora and asked, "May I have this dance, Lora?"


    Lora smiled and ced her hand in his. They moved to the dancefloor and began to dance to the music.


    Jason nced at Lora as they danced. He smiled at her and remarked, "Congrattions, bossdy."


    Lora chuckled and answered, "Thank you, Jason."


    "I''m the happiest man in the room right now, and I bet the men who are watching are jealous of me," Jason said, looking into Lora''s eyes.


    "Oh Jason, you''ll always be so flirtatious," Lora happily replied.


    "As the youngest female CEO in Moonstone City and the mysterious daughter of the Davis family, it''s all enough to make all the men crazy about you," Jason continued.


    "Jason, you''re also at the center of attention. You''re the new mysterious CEO who just moved to Moonstone City. Seriously, I''ve known you for so many years, and you are still just as mysterious," Lora quipped at her friend. Meanwhile, Ryan''s jaw was clenched for some reason.


    Watching the woman who looked like Larisa dance so intimately with another man ignited an indescribable me of jealousy in his heart.


    He knew she couldn''t be his wife... but why did he feel so angry and frustrated seeing this strange woman with another man?


    His eyes narrowed and he felt like someone was squeezing his heart. It took his all not to walk onto that dancefloor and rip them apart. From the side, Ivy happened to see Ryan''s expression as he stared at Lora Davis.


    She balled her hands into tight fists as a bitter feeling crept into her heart. ''Do you still have that bitch in your heart?'' She asked in her mind.


    It had been six years and Ryan was yet to marry her... could it be because he couldn''t forget Larisa


    Chapter 7- Strangers


    Bet?


    Not only did she have topete with a ghost, but she also had topete with someone who resembled one Larisa Bet.


    Ivy red at Lora Davis with hatred in her heart. She won''t let anyone steal Ryan away from her! He was hers and hers alone!


    "Ryan... Do you think she looks like Larisa?" Ivy suddenly asked, getting Ryan''s attention. "How I wish she was Larisa. I''ve been thinking about her all the time for the past six years, and I''ve been ming myself all the time. If it weren''t for you saving me, Larisa wouldn''t be... But how could Lora Davis be Larissa? She''s not the one. How can she be the daughter of a rich family?"


    Ryan came back to his senses when he heard that. Of course, Larisa was an orphan with no rtives. There was no way she could be Jack Davis'' daughter.


    He nced at the woman on the dancefloor and saw how she moved with expertise. Larisa never knew how to dance and she hated attending such events.


    ''That''s right... there''s no way she''s Larisa. I saw her remains myself, Ryan said in his mind.


    "You''re right... Larisa is gone," he muttered but he sounded like he was trying to convince himself.


    However, he couldn''t shake off the tight feeling in his chest. He felt like he was missing something.


    A little whileter, Lora had just finished greeting and getting introduced to most of the high-ranking guests. Jason excused himself to pick up a call and left Lora alone.


    Seeing her alone, Ryan left Ivy''s side and approached her.


    "Good evening, Miss Davis," he said in a deep velvety voice.


    When she heard the man''s voice, Lora turned to look at him. Ryan''s heart skipped a beat when their eyes locked.


    Those hazel eyes...


    Up close, she looked more identical to Larisa Bet. Was she really not her?


    "Good evening," Lora''s soft voice reached his ears.


    Although she was polite, he could tell that there was no familiarity in the way she responded to him.


    Ryan furrowed his eyebrows. He smiled and said, "I''ve been wanting to have an opportunity to talk to you. I would like to propose a partnership-"


    "This isn''t the ce nor the time, Sir. Most importantly, shouldn''t you introduce yourself first? You can''t just jump to talking about business without telling me who you are," Lora remarked.


    Ryan''s heart dropped as reality sank in. This woman couldn''t be his wife. His wife would have recognised


    him.


    How can someone resemble a dead person so much? Even their eyes were the same...


    "Sir??" Lora called out, confusion stering her face.


    "I''m Ryan Kingsley, the CEO of the Kingsley group," Ryan introduced himself even though it left a bitter taste in his mouth.Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Why did being strangers with the woman before him feel so wrong?


    "Ok, Mr Kingsley. You can contact my assistant for any business-rted matters," Lora remarked. She smiled and added, "Please excuse me."


    "Wait..." Ryan couldn''t help but stop her.


    He looked into Lora''s eyes and there was an indescribable emotion flowing through him at the moment. Even though he knew the woman before him wasn''t Larisa... it sure felt good to see someone who looked like her.


    It had been six years since he lost his wife and yet, he couldn''t forget her.


    "Mr Kingsley, what''s the matter? And why do you keep looking at me like that?" Lora blinked and asked Ryan, her face devoid of any emotion.


    Ryan gulped. He swallowed the lump in his throat and finally said, "Lora Davis, you feel so familiar. Is it you, Larisa?"

 Chapter 8~ Somethings never change

    Chapter 8- Somethings never change


    Ryan''s words hang in the air.


    He looked deeply into Lora''s eyes like he was searching for something and his heart was pounding violently against his ribcage.


    After a few seconds, Lora nced at him and asked, "Are you referring to me? Didn''t you get my name earlier? I''m Lora Davis."


    "I know... it''s just that you look like someone I know. You have the same face but a different name and identity-"


    "I think Mr Kingsley mistook me for someone else. This is my first timeing to Moonstone City and I''ve never met you before," Lora replied calmly.


    Deep down, she sneered coldly.


    Yes, she is Larisa. She is also Lora Davis. She is back.


    She hated the man before her with a passion. He was so ruthless back then and left her in the warehouse to die six years ago... no matter how kind Ryan looked at the moment, Lora knew him well. He was her heartless husband who chose to save his ex and left her to die.


    Even though she hated him and wanted nothing to do with him, she had no choice but to act normally to avoid making him suspicious.


    She had no intention of letting him know that she was alive! Never!.


    When Ryan heard her words, he frowned. She was right... he had seen the warehouse blow up in front of his eyes. Perhaps it was his longing that made him hope Lora was Larisa.


    He cleared his throat and said, "I get it... however, I don''t intend to leave this ce without securing a partnership with you. It''s hard to get hold of you... I''m an opportunist and I make sure I get what I want when I have the chance."


    "What makes you think you''re special, Mr Kingsley? So many people want to work with me," Lora remarked. "Why should I choose you?"


    "You just returned to the country and trying to take a strong footing in thepany. Wouldn''t the board members think highly of you if you immediately cooperated with the Kingsley group?" Ryan stated.


    When he saw that he grabbed Lora''s attention, he continued, "I know howpany politics work. They won''t be too happy that the CEO''s daughter came from nowhere and just took over. Wouldn''t it be easier to join hands with the most powerful group in the Country?" Lora scoffed. She replied, "I don''t intend to rely on anyone. My skills are enough to prove that I''m


    capable."


    Ryan''s face twitched. He didn''t expect his suggestion to be easily brushed off by Lora. After all, everyone wished to form a partnership with the Kingsley Group.


    Why was this woman so uninterested?


    He chuckled and said, "Let me rephrase that. Mypany needs you, Miss Davis. We are expanding into the jewelry business and would love to cooperate with you. We will provide the raw materials and you will provide the designs. What do you say?" Lora crossed her arms. She arched an eyebrow, a move that made her look more alluring. "You''re the one who needs mypany. Can''t you show a little more sincerity?"


    Ryan''s eyes narrowed. He didn''t expect Lora to be so difficult. However, he really needed the partnership because this jewelrypany was so important to him.


    Larisa loved jewelry, so, Ryan wanted to open a jewelrypany in memory of her. 2


    "We can negotiate the terms in your favour. All want is to partner with apany with the best jewelry designers in the city," Ryan offered.


    Lora''s eyebrows creased. She knew Ryan was right. If anything, she needed this partnership more. Her return had brought a lot of conflicts among the board members and partnering with the Kingsley group would calm them down temporarily. It was a good way to keep them off her back as she worked on improving thepany and proving herself.


    However, there was no way she could let Ryan know that she needed hispany. She looked at him emotionlessly and said, "I''m not promising anything but I''ll think about it. My assistant will call you."


    Ryan''s eyes lit up. He smiled and replied, "I can''t wait to work with you, Miss Davis."


    Lora nodded and was about to turn around to leave when Ryan grabbed her arm.


    "Wait..." he uttered and looked into her eyes again.


    Aplex feeling rushed through him, giving him a sense of nostalgia.


    It had been so long since he saw Larisa''s face and looking at the woman who looked so much like her, he couldn''t help but want to look at her face a little more.N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    When he touched Lora, he felt an electric shock course through him and his heart skipped a beat. Was it possible for two different people to look the same and feel the same?


    He nced at Lora and frowned, "You..."


    "Ryan..."


    A soft voice called out to him from behind and Ryan turned to look. Ivy was wheeling herself towards him.


    While he was distracted, Lora flung his hand away roughly and spat, "Mr Kingsley, please behave appropriately!"


    When Ryan turned to look at Lora, there was a sudden bang from behind followed by a sharp scream of pain.


    When he nced back, he found that Ivy had bumped into one of the tables and fallen to the ground with the wheelchair falling on top of her.


    His eyes widened and he anxiously called out to her, "lvy!"


    He rushed towards Ivy and picked her up bridal style before carrying her out of the hall at the speed of light.


    At the same time, Lora sneered coldly when she saw that. She shook her head and thought, ''Some things never change.''


    It was a good thing she had moved on and had no intention of entertaining Ryan and his drama.

 Chapter 9~ The Twins

    Chapter 9 The Twins


    "What did Ryan Kingsley want? I saw him grab your arm," Jason asked as he drove Lora back home.


    He had a gentle smile on his face, but deep inside, he was seething. Lora and him had met while she was abroad six years ago and he had been pursuing her ever since.


    Jason had been there for her and helped her out whenever she needed a friend or someone to lean on.


    However, Lora hadn''t rejected him and neither had she epted him. Since he never openly spoke about his feelings, she never said anything about it either.


    Seeing another man get interested in her made him a bit anxious.


    Lora sighed at Jason''s question. That encounter with Ryan made her feel unpleasant. She gave Jason a sideways nce and replied, "A partnership."


    "Did you ept?" Jason asked in a low voice. Without realising, he tightened his hold around the steering wheel as he anxiously waited for Lora''s answer. His knuckles turned white from how tightly he gripped the wheel.


    "I told him I''ll think about it..." Lora said and looked out the window as they approached the building where her apartment was located.


    Even though she had returned to her family, she still preferred to stay alone.


    She recalled her conversation with Ryan and a flicker of hatred shed through her eyes.


    Six years ago, if it wasn''t for her parents rescuing her in the nick of time, she would have died in that explosion.


    Anger bubbled up within her at the reminder of how ruthless Ryan was.


    ''He dares topare me to Larisa Bet... that woman died six years ago,'' she said in her mind.


    "Lora, we''re here." Jason''s words interrupted Lora''s musings. He turned to look at her and added, "How I wish the drive was longer."


    Lora chuckled and replied, "Thank you for sending me back, Jason. I had a great time tonight."


    "Can Ie up? I would like to say hi to the little ones, Jason asked and Lora turned to look at him.


    Jason was always kind and considerate. He had always been by her side and protected her. There were times when she thought of giving him a chance, however, being in a rtionship wasn''t Lora''s priority at the moment.


    She smiled and answered, "It''ste, Jay. You can meet themter... Goodnight."


    Although Jason was disappointed, he didn''t show it. Instead, he nodded and replied, "That''s right... it''s not appropriate. I''ll meet them tomorrow with some gifts."


    Lora smiled at him and left his car before going up to her apartment.


    Meanwhile, inside Lora''s apartment.


    "Ethan, is this handsome uncle our daddy?" E sat next to her brother, Ethan, looking at the tablet in


    Ethan''s hand and asked innocently.


    The two had been watching the live stream of their mother''s introduction party when they happened to see a man who looked like an older version of Ethan. Ethan didn''t answer but continued to look at the man on the tablet. A serious expression that did not match the youth of a five-year-old appeared on his face. "This handsome uncle looks like you, Ethan. I feel like he''s our daddy," E remarked. "It would be nice if he was."


    "E, whether he is our daddy or not is still to be investigated. But we must not mention this man in front of our mommy," Ethanmanded, his brows meeting. "Why? He went to Mommy''s party and grabbed Mommy''s arm. I saw it," E asked innocently. "He must be our daddy."


    "It''splicated to exin. Don''t you see a woman in a wheelchair next to him? As far as I know, this woman is none other than his fianc¨¦e," Ethan exined.


    He zoomed in on the image of the woman in the wheelchair and the folds between his eyebrows met. ''So, this is the woman who Daddy loves?'' He thought in his mind. "You mean, our daddy abandoned mommy because of this woman?" E asked, her eyes rounding in


    surprise.


    They all saw how hard their mother worked to take care of them.


    "So, until I investigate everything, we can''t think that this man is our daddy for the time being. Otherwise, Mommy will be sad."


    "Okay, I understand. If it was really this woman who stole our daddy, I will help Mommy recover the interest," E said, her eyes twinkling with a strange calction. Ethan smiled and touched E''s head softly.


    "E, Ethan, Mommy is back!" Just then, they heard Lora''s voice.


    Ethan hurriedly put the tablet down, and the two of them pretended to be doing nothing.


    E threw herself into her mother''s arms. She eximed, "Mommy, you''re back! Did you have fun atN?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    tonight''s party?"


    "Yes! I had fun with Grandpa and Grandma!" Lora eximed, her heart filling with warmth.


    E studied Lora''s expression and asked, "Mommy, are you sad?""


    Lora seemed like she was in a bad mood. E frowned and thought, ''Could Mommy be angry that Daddy


    was with that woman in a wheelchair?''


    Lora was taken aback by E''s question. She stroked her hair lovingly and smiled before saying, "Mommy is very happy, why haven''t you slept yet?"


    Lora thought the kids would fall asleep with the nanny. However, they were still up when it was way past their bedtime.


    "We''re waiting for you, Mommy. I can''t sleep without your goodnight kisses," E said sweetly.


    "A, my sweetheart," Lora remarked and leaned over before cing a kiss on E''s forehead and cheeks. She then approached Ethan and did the same.


    "I love you, Mommy," E said. "And Ethan loves you too."


    Lora''s heart immediately softened. Despite the infinite hurt Ryan had brought her, the two children were Ryan''s best gifts to herself.


    Her children meant the world to her and they were all that mattered.


    Lora hugged her children, not seeing the sparkle of calction in Ethan''s eyes.

 Chapter 10~ New CEO

    Chapter 10- New CEO


    "Good morning, Miss Lora." The staff greeted Lora warmly.


    "Good morning," Lora responded with a smile.


    Lora arrived at the Davis & Co.pany to take over from her father.


    She wore a light blue feminine business suit with high heels. Her hair was left to flow down her shoulders, giving her a bossdy vibe.


    "Miss Davis, you''re needed in the conference room," her assistant, Hannah Collins, reported. She then moved closer and whispered, "All the board members are here and they don''t look happy."


    Lora frowned. She knew why they wanted to see her. How bold of them to show their disapproval of her on her first day of reporting.


    "I knew this would happen, that''s why I came prepared," she remarked and smirked. They wouldn''t get rid of her that easily.


    No offense, Mr Davis but your daughter came out of nowhere and you want her to take over thepany? I know she''s your family but aren''t you being too careless? How can I be sure that my investment is safe in thispany?" Lora had barely reached the door of the conference room when she heard someone say this.


    It wasn''t hard to tell from the voice, he was one of the board members, Craig Hendrix.


    Inside the conference room, Jack Davis furrowed his eyebrows at the man''s words. He was about to reply but Lora came in before he could.


    "Good morning everyone. Hope I am not toote," Lora said with an air of confidence.


    Seeing Lora walk in, Jack Davis smiled.


    Although he only found Lora six years ago, he knew his daughter well. Lora is definitely not someone to be at the mercy of others. She could hold her own.


    Lora looked at Craig and responded, "I understand your concerns and this is why, I n tounch a new design of jewelry that I''m a hundred percent sure will be a best seller."


    Craig scoffed. He remarked, "We have so many designers in ourpany. What makes you think your design will be special?"


    Lora just smiled and replied, "Please trust me... I''llunch the design soon and then, we can have this discussion to ascertain my skills."


    The other board members nodded in agreement. After all, they couldn''tpletely oppose since Lora was the CEO''s daughter.


    However, Craig sneered. He remarked, "Launching a new design is not enough. We want to know what you will do to expand thepany and make us more profit."


    Lora frowned. It seemed Craig was picking a bone with her for some reason.


    She forced a smile and said, "Would a partnership with the Kingsley group be of satisfaction to you?"


    Craig arched his eyebrows and they almost reached his hairline. He scoffed and uttered, "You must be joking. You''ve never even worked before, why would the CEO of the Kingsley group agree to cooperate with you?" "I already have an offer from him, Mr Hendrix. Once I sign the contract, I wish to be left alone to work in peace, deal?" Lora stated.


    Craig huffed in frustration. He realised he no longer had a reason to oppose and sat back in his chair.


    When the meeting was over, Jack looked at his daughter and uttered, "I''m sorry... Craig has a lot of influence and he must have had another candidate in mind for the position."


    Lora smiled and replied, "Don''t worry, Dad. I won''t disappoint you."


    Back in her office, Lora instructed her assistant, saying "Arrange a meeting with the Kingsley group. Tell them we agree to the partnership but we shall set the terms." Meanwhile, at the Kingsley group.


    "Sir, we got a call from Davis & Co. They''ve epted your offer," Lawrence Scott, Ryan Kingsley''s assistant, reported.


    Ryan''s eyes lit up. He recalled Lora Davis'' face and something stirred within him. Her face was all he could think about all night.


    He didn''t expect to hear from her the next day.


    Nodding, he said, "Arrange a meeting quickly. I need to sign a contract with her before she changes her mind."


    Lawrence''s eyebrows met. He wondered, since when was his boss worried about someone changing their mind?


    "Why are you still standing there?" Ryan questioned. "Hurry before we lose the partnership!"


    Lawrence, "....."


    Ryan was acting like his life depended on the partnership.Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    When Lawrence walked out to arrange the meeting, Ivy Williams wheeled herself into the office. She happened to have heard the conversation.


    "Ryan, you''re partnering with Uncle Davis?" She asked when she got closer.


    Ryan frowned, not expecting to see Ivy in his office. He nodded and replied, "Yes, I need a designer for the new jewelrypany."


    As he said this, he got up and went to relieve himself in the bathroom. Ivy happened to see a file for the new jewelrypany that Ryan was opening on the table. However, when she read the name of thepany, she clenched her hands into fists.


    [LAN''s luxurious Jewelry]


    Even a fool could tell that the name was abination of Ryan and Larisa''s names. Hatred flickered through Ivy''s eyes and anger bubbled up within her. Larisa was a ghost but she still had Ryan''s heart!


    "Sir, the meeting with Miss Davis has been arranged...." Lawrence came in and said but he paused when he saw the woman in the office. He didn''t expect to see Ivy here.


    "Miss Daivs? Are you referring to Lora Davis?" Ivy questioned.


    "Sorry ma''am, I didn''t know you were in the office. It''s not convenient for me to disclose the details of the business. If you have any questions, you can confirm with the boss," Lawrence apologized and left the office. Ivy realised the woman who looked like Larisa would be working with Ryan.


    When she recalled the way Ryan looked at Lora at the party yesterday and the way he grabbed her arm, anger burned through her. She definitely couldn''t let them cooperate. No one can take Ryan away from her. No way. Ivy''s eyes filled with jealousy and rage.


    ''I can''t let that happen!''

 Chapter 11~ Partnership

    Chapter 11- Partnership


    "Ivy, what are you doing?" Ryan asked when he returned, his voice bringing Ivy back to the present. His eyes lowered to the file in Ivy''s hand and she ced it back on the table before smiling at him. She had wanted to go through it but Ryan returned before she could.


    "Ryan, can I work in your new jewelrypany?" Ivy requested.


    Ryan frowned. He took a seat on his swivel chair and said, "Ivy-"N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    "You''ve always been taking care of me... I''m a jewelry designer too and I would like to be of help to you."


    When Ivy said that, the folds between Ryan''s eyebrows tightened. He thought about her condition and aplicated feeling crept into him.


    "Do you think I can''t manage to work in my condition?" Ivy asked in a soft, pitiful voice.


    Guilt filled Ryan''s heart and he didn''t know how to say no to her without making her feel bad.


    He cleared his throat and answered, "Of course you can work. You can join thepany as one of the designers."


    Ivy''s eyes lit up when he agreed. She smiled and replied, "Thank you, Ryan. I''ll do my best, I promise."


    Ryan sighed as he nced at Ivy. He said, "You don''t need to push yourself hard."


    Ivy nodded. When Ryan lowered his eyes to nce at his documents, he missed the sinister smile on Ivy''s face.


    "Ryan, are you going to have a meeting with Lora Davis?" Ivy asked.


    Ryan''s eyebrows creased. He nced at Ivy and questioned, "How did you know about the meeting?"


    "Um... Lawrence came through and said the meeting has been arranged," Ivy remarked. "Can I attend the meeting? Lora and I are both good at jewelry design, and I thought I could be of help when you guys sign the contract. Please, Ryan."


    She had to make sure she knew all the details of Ryan and Lora''s coboration, making sure they didn''t spend more time together after the meeting.


    Looking at Ivy''s supplicate gaze, Ryan nodded and replied, "Sure...... You are already hired as my jewelry designer, and of course, you can attend the meeting."


    A little whileter, Lora Davis was waiting in the conference room at the Kingsley Group. She nced at the door when it was opened and Ryan walked in, pushing Ivy who was in a wheelchair, followed by his assistant.


    Ryan nced at Lora and his heart skipped a beat. Every time he saw the woman''s face, he felt an indescribable emotion within him.


    Could it be because she resembled Larisa?


    He couldn''t help being drawn to her like a moth is drawn to a me.


    "Miss Lora, good to see you. I wasn''t expecting to hear from you so soon," Ryan remarked with a smirk.


    Seeing Ivy and Ryan appear in the meeting room at the same time, Lora had an indifferent look on her face as she said, "I''m a businesswoman and since your offer is beneficial to me and mypany, there''s no way I''ll turn it down." Ryan nodded. He chuckled and replied, "Nice. I love how decisive you are. So, shall we discuss the terms of our partnership?"


    "What are your terms?" Lora asked.


    "It''s going to be a one-year contract. While working on designs for thepany, I expect you to cooperate with me at all times. I might need to make some alterations to the designs and I expect you to be willing to make those corrections. To do that, I need you to work closely with me and have constant meetings with me," Ryan stated.


    Lora frowned. Why would she need to meet Ryan regrly when she''s just creating designs?


    "Mr Kingsley, I won''t have the time to meet you regrly. You can let my assistant know if there''s anything you need," she objected.


    "Ryan, as CEOs, you and Lora are always busy. If you have any design-rted questions, I canmunicate with Lora as a designer in thepany, Ivy suggested.


    "Ivy, you know I''m the CEO. It''s time to seriously discuss the terms of the contract, not the design." Ryan interrupted Ivy and looking at Lora, he continued.


    "I''m not partnering with your assistant but with you, Miss Lora. Don''t worry, I don''t have ulterior motives, I just want to make sure there are no mistakes. After all, I''ve never seen your work before. It''s only natural that I would want to monitor the progress," Ryan said. Ryan exined officially. But he knew he just wanted an opportunity to get close to Lora and know more about her.


    Lora sighed. Since it was just work, she could just find a way to avoid Ryan. She nodded, saying, "That''s ok. I agree to the terms. However, my terms are that we share the profit fifty-fifty."


    Increasing herpany''s revenue and impressing the board members was all that she cared about.


    Ryan smiled and signalled his assistant.


    Lawrence handed a contract to Lora and after she read through the terms and conditions, she took a pen and signed it.


    She got to her feet and said, "I''ll start working on a new design right away."


    "Wait..." Ryan called out when Lora was about to leave.


    Lora turned to look at him and he cleared his throat.


    "How about dinner to celebrate our cooperation?" Ryan offered.


    "No thanks," Lora rejected outright. "I have ns."


    She left after saying those words.


    Ivy clenched her fists when she heard Ryan invite Lora to dinner.


    Ryan, do you still want to be close to Lora even if you know Lora isn''t Larisa? Is it because they look alike? I''ve given so much to get close to you, and I will never allow you to follow any other woman, Ivy thought hatefully. ""Ryan, I''m not feeling well."


    Ryan was pulled back to reality by Ivy. Looking at her pale face, a trace of guilt shed in Ryan''s eyes.


    "Do you need to go to the hospital?" Ryan asked with concern. He had to admit that Lora had influenced him so much that he ignored Ivy.


    "I''m fine, maybe I''m just hungry. Ryan, let''s go for dinner to celebrate your signing with Davis & Co.," Ivy. requested.


    "Ok, my pleasure." Ryan put away the depression of being rejected by Lora and replied.


    When Ryan pushed Ivy''s wheelchair into a fancy restaurant, he paused in his tracks. He saw Lora and a man having dinner, seemingly having a good time together Ryan gritted his teeth, his jaw clenched and he narrowed his eyes at the couple.

 Chapter 12~ To celebrate

    Chapter 12- To celebrate


    "How did you know about this ce? Aren''t you new in this city?" Lora looked around the fancy restaurant and asked.


    Jason smiled.


    "I asked around about the best ce to bring a beautifuldy on a date," he remarked.


    Lora froze and her eyes slightly widened.


    When Jason saw her expression, heughed heartily. He said, "Look at your expression. I''m just joking. I wanted to bring you here to celebrate your first partnership."


    Lora came back to her senses after Jason rified. She secretly let out a sigh of relief and replied, "Thank you, Jay. You''re always good to me... whether it''s out of the country or here. I''m so grateful." "It''s not for free... after this meal, you will owe me dinner too," Jason uttered.


    Lora giggled. She shook her head before promising, "Of course, I''ll treat you to dinner next time."


    The restaurant had dim lighting with some soft music ying in the background, It was giving off a calm but romantic vibe which was somewhat rxing.


    As they continued to eat and chat, they had no idea of the menacing eyes that were ring at them from behind.


    At the same time, Ryan Kingsley coiled his hands into fists as a strange surge of jealousy rushed through him when he saw the two being all lovey-dovey in the restaurant.


    Why?


    Why was he getting worked up? Lora just looked like his wife. She wasn''t her...


    Ivy happened to see them too. She eximed, "Isn''t that Miss Lora Davis? She''s with that man again, are they dating?"


    When there was no response from Ryan, Ivy looked back at Ryan and asked, "Ryan... do you want us to join them?"


    Ryan furrowed his eyebrows. He shook his head and replied in annoyance, "No, I don''t."


    Ivy smiled happily as Ryan pushed her wheelchair to a different table. They ordered their food and she kept trying to chat with Ryan. However, she realised that his body was with her but his mind was somewhere else. When she looked at him, she saw him looking at Lora and Jason''s table. He wasn''t even paying attention to his food.


    A sh of anger flickered through Ivy''s eyes. ''Lora has another man but she''s still stealing Ryan''s


    attention!"


    "Ryan, is the food not to your taste?" lyy asked to get his attention.


    Ryan didn''t even look back at her when he replied, "It''s fine."


    He kept looking at Lora''s table. She had smeared some sauce on her lips and Jason stretched his hand to wipe her lips.


    The move looked intimate and it made them look like a romantic couple.


    Ryan''s eyes turned cold. Without sparing Ivy another nce, he got to his feet and approached the table.


    "Miss Lora, fancy seeing you here," Ryan remarked.


    Lora and Jason had been having a good time when they heard Ryan''s voice.


    Lora looked at Ryan and forced a smile before saying, "Good evening, Mr Kingsley."


    "I thought you said you didn''t want to have dinner?" Ryan asked her.


    Lora arched an eyebrow. She responded, "I said I have ns, Mr Kingsley. ns to have dinner with someone else..."


    Someone else...


    For some reason, those two words irked Ryan. He didn''t even understand his own behavior. However, whenever he saw Lora Davis, something stirred within him and he didn''t want to see her with another man. Ryan nced at Jason and he frowned. The man looked familiar but Ryan couldn''t wrap his head around where he had seen such a face.


    He looked back at Lora and asked, "This is....?"


    Lora frowned at Ryan. What was he up to? He was being too inquisitive.


    She was about to reply when Ivy''s voice reached their ears.


    "Lora, it''s good to see you here," Ivy said after wheeling herself to the table.


    Lora''s eyebrows creased. Ivy was acting like they were besties.


    "Do I know you?" Lora asked.


    "We met in Ryan''s meeting room. I am sorry I didn''t have a chance to introduce myself. I''m Ivy, Ryan''s fianc¨¦e," Ivy said, shing Lora a smile. However, there was nothing friendly about that smile and it gave Lora the chills.


    Ivy grabbed Ryan''s hand and said to Lora, "Thank you for partnering with Ryan. He knows I love design and created apany for me..." "Ivy-" Ryan scolded.


    "Oops, did I ruin the surprise?" Ivy covered her mouth and giggled.


    "Sorry, Ryan. I''ll keep my mouth shut,"


    Ryan narrowed his eyes at Ivy. However, they were in public and he didn''t see the need to correct her in front of Lora and Jason.N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    Lora nced at them and sneered internally. ''So, he opened a jewelry store for the love of his life? How sweet.


    "Is this your fiance, Lora? I saw you dance with him at your party," Ivy suddenly asked and Ryan turned to look at Lora. He also wanted to know their rtionship) Silence fell over them. Ivy chuckled and said, "No? Are you dating then? You seem to be close, it kind of reminds me of my sweet rtionship with Ryan."


    Lora''s face twitched. Before she could reply, Jason held her hand and brought it to his lips before giving it a kiss.


    He then turned to look at Ryan and Ivy before asking, "Isn''t it obvious?"


    Ryan felt like his heart had been stabbed by a knife. He red at Jason and the hand he was holding but he had to restrain himself from ripping them apart. "Miss Lora, I need to see a draft of your design within this week," Ryan ordered icily.


    "Are you kidding me? A week? I need more time-"


    "Then perhaps you should cut off unnecessary time-wasting programs and concentrate on designing. We have a contract," Ryan said through gritted teeth. With those words, he turned Ivy''s wheelchair around and pushed her out of the restaurant.

 Chapter 13~ Is Larisa alive?

    Chapter 13- Is Larisa alive?


    "He still thinks the world revolves around him," Lora muttered under her breath.


    Ryan had already left but anger was still bubbling up within her.


    She returned with a new identity to put her past behind her and start anew but it seemed she became entangled with Ryan and Ivy once again.


    Lora''s eyes shed when she recalled the thug''s words before they set the warehouse on fire. Someone wanted her out of the way and Lora could only assume that it was Ivy.


    Now that Ryan was giving her unnecessary attention, Lora knew it was only a matter of time before she became Ivy''s target again.


    ''I have to avoid Ryan at all costs to protect myself and my children,'' she mused. If Ivy knew Lora had Ryan''s kids, only the heavens knew what she would do to them. Jason saw her expression and asked, "Do you know Ryan?"


    It was strange how the man''kept following Lora around.


    Lora came back to the present after that question. She smiled and said, "How can I know such an important man? I was just an orphan before my parents found me, remember?"


    She had no intention of speaking about her past. After being betrayed, she pulled Ryan out of her heart and life like a tooth that ached and had no ns of looking back. To her, they were nothing but strangers who just met.


    Jason chuckled. He nodded and replied, "You''re right. Ryan is part of a very important family... perhaps. he''s giving you attention because you''re the daughter of Jack Davis." Lora shrugged and said, "Maybe... but that''s none of my business."


    When Jason saw how indifferent she looked, his heart calmed down.


    "That''s right... such men can never settle for one woman. It''s better to avoid him," he remarked and they continued to enjoy their meal.


    Meanwhile, Ryan was in a bad mood. While seated in the backseat of his car, his jaw was clenched and green veins seemed to be almost popping out of his forehead.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    He couldn''t understand why he was so angry but he couldn''t help himself either. Lora''s face kept shing before his eyes, her image ovepping with Larisa''s.


    Ivy nced at him and jealousy red through her. Why was he so upset?


    It must be because of Lora Davis! She just showed up and Ryan was no longer himself!


    ''I have to get rid of her!'' She said in her mind.


    "Ryan..." Ivy called out to him. "When are youing to see my parents? Dad has been asking about you."


    Ryan frowned. He replied, "When I have time."


    "What about the wedding? I think we should get married now," Ivy asked, her heart racing.


    Ryan looked at her and said, "Let''s discuss this matterter. I''m still busy withpany matters."


    Ivy pursed her lips.


    It was always one excuse after another and before they knew it, six years had passed since she returned to the Country! Ryan kept dying their marriage.


    Although she was not happy, Ivy smiled at Ryan and remarked, "It''s ok. I''m willing to wait for you until you''re ready."


    Ryan didn''t reply, his mind was still in the restaurant, wondering if Lora would spend the night with Jason. Ivy clenched her hands into fists, digging her nails into her palms.


    "I''m going to physiotherapy tomorrow, will you go with me? I''m going to have a checkup for my legs," Ivy requested.


    When Ryan heard that, he nced at Ivy''s legs and guilt crept into him. He was upset but it wasn''t fair to vent it out on Ivy.


    Looking at her, he nodded. "Sure. I also want to find out if we need to bring in more experts to treat your legs."


    Ivy smiled happily. As long as she couldn''t use her legs, Ryan would always care for her.


    Ryan''s phone suddenly rang and he answered it when he saw that it was his grandfather, Charles Kingsley, who was calling him. "Hello Grandpa," he said.


    "Is Larisa alive?" The old man immediately asked on the phone. There was a hint of excitement in his tone.


    Ryan knew what his grandfather was talking about. He must have read the news and seen Lora Davis'' picture.


    Sighing, he replied, "I hate to burst your bubble, Grandpa. That woman is not Larisa."


    "What? Come home and tell me what''s happening," Charles instructed.


    When Ryan cut the call, Ivy said, "Can Ie with you to see Grandpa?"


    Ryan furrowed his eyebrows. His grandfather never liked Ivy and he always favoured Larisa. It would be a bad idea to take Ivy to see him. "Not tonight," Ryan responded and left it at that.


    After dropping Ivy off, Ryan went to his grandfather''s mansion. He went to his study and found his grandfather reading an entertainment magazine. "Grandpa," Ryan called out and Charles dropped his magazine to look at his grandson.


    "Are you sure this woman is not Larisa? Have you looked into it?" Charles asked.


    "She''s not the one... she doesn''t recognise me and she''s Jack Davis'' daughter. Larisa was an orphan," Ryan answered.


    Charles sighed. He said, "Too bad... I thought she was the one. Anyway, it doesn''t matter. I want to meet her. Can you arrange it?"


    Ryan frowned. He replied, "Are you trying to arrange another marriage for me, Grandpa?"


    "What do you think?" Charles remarked. He clicked his tongue and said, "To me, no one can rece Larisa so I won''t be forcing you to do anything. But I want to meet Lora Davis." "I''ll see what I can do... but she seems guarded against me-"


    "That''s because you hang out with that two-faced woman! Even I can avoid you if you''re moving around with a troublesome woman. How long are you going to keep her by your side?"

 Chapter 14~ A call

    Chapter 14-A call


    "I promised to marry her, Grandpa," Ryan replied.


    Ivy got hurt because she was going to meet him. If he abandoned her, he didn''t think he could live with himself.


    Charles Kingsley frowned as he stared at his grandson. He couldn''t understand how someone so smart could allow a woman to trick him.


    "As long as I''m the elder in this family, I''ll never allow it," Charlesmanded. "Ivy Williams can never be a Kingsley."Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    He spoke with authority and Ryan didn''t dare try to convince him. Even though Charles was old, he was still the Chairman of the Kingsley Group and still carried an air of dominance and authority. "Grandpa, she got hurt because-"


    "I don''t care about what lies she''s told you to make you this way. Ryan, if you want to end up like your father, continue entertaining that woman. I was already disappointed with how you treated Larisa. She was such a sweet, kind woman and you blew it," Charles remarked..


    Silence fell over them. For Ryan, the mention of Larisa caused him so much pain. He regretted losing her. His failure to protect her will alwayse back to haunt him.


    After a few seconds, Ryan sighed and said, "I''ll arrange a meeting with Lora Davis."


    Thereafter, he turned and left the room. However, he almost bumped into his younger half-sister, Isabe Kingsley.


    "Oh, R-Ryan-"


    "What are you doing here? Were you eavesdropping?" Ryan questioned, his eyebrows knotting in anger. He wasn''t close with this half-sister of his because they shared different mothers. Ryan hated how his father moved on so fast after the death of his mother. Isabe shifted nervously in her stance and stammered, "I- I wanted to see Grandpa! There''s something I want to ask him."


    Ryan narrowed his eyes and walked away. Apart from his grandfather and his sister, Diane, he didn''t get along with the other members of the Kingsley family.


    Once Ryan disappeared from her sight, Isabe let out a breath she didn''t know she was holding.


    That was close.


    Ryan almost found out she hade to spy on him and listen to what he was talking about with their grandfather.


    She took out her phone and sent out a message to report what she had heard.


    "Girl, I didn''t expect you to run straight into Ryan''s trap the moment you returned. Didn''t you learn a lesson?" Bianca Jones, Lora''s best friend, remarked.


    Lora sighed as they left the cafe where they went to grab some coffee before going to work. She replied," I didn''t fall into his trap... it''s just business."


    "Business? When you look like his dead wife? What if he finds out?" Bianca asked, shaking her head." After what you went through, I didn''t expect you to walk into the lion''s den of your own volition."


    "Don''t worry, I have no intention of making myself suffer ever again. I''m only interested in keeping the board members off my back as I do my work. I''m only using the Kingsley Group like they''re using me," Lora said.


    Bianca sighed heavily. She nced at her friend and hoped she was right. Ryan was shrewd and cunning. If he found out Larisa was actually alive, who knew what he might do?


    "All I''ll say is make sure he doesn''t find out about you... if he asks again, just say you''re a doppelganger," Bianca uttered.


    The two women nced at each other and burst intoughter.


    "Haha! That''s a good one... I''ll use it if he asks me again," Lora replied.


    Unbeknownst to them, someone who was driving in the street happened to see them.


    "Enough about that scumbag... how are my little angels?" Bianca asked, referring to Lora''s twins.


    A gentle smile crossed Lora''s face at the mention of her children. She said, "They are fine... Dad picked them up and took them to their new school."


    "I can''t wait to have them over at my ce for a sleepover," Bianca remarked and Lora smiled.


    "They will be ecstatic."


    Bianca and Lora had kept in touch after Lora left the country with her parents. They maintained their friendship and updated each other on what was going on in their lives. Meanwhile, Ryan had just gotten to his office when he received a call from his best friend, Adan Nicholson.


    "Ryan, my God, you can''t imagine who I''ve just seen," Adan said.


    Listening to the voice of his best buddy, Ryan didn''t bother to reply. ''He probably saw one of his ex-girlfriends again,'' he thought in his mind.


    After not getting a response from Ryan, Adan didn''t care and continued, "I saw Larisa, she was still alive!" Adan was one of the few people who knew that Larisa and Ryan were secretly married, and he also knew that Ryan had been in a bad state after Larisa died in a warehouse explosion six years ago. Hearing Adan''s words, Ryan finally reacted. He said, "I think you''re talking about Lora. We''ve already met at her party. She''s not Larisa, they just look alike."


    "God, Ryan. I''m very sure she''s Larisa, She and her friend Bianca are exactly the same as they were six years ago."


    Ryan''s eyebrows creased and he felt his heart skip a beat. Lora was with Bianca Jones?


    "Adan, take a picture and send it to me," he requested, his heart beating like a drum.


    After Ryan received the photo, he confirmed that the woman who was with Lora was Bianca, Larisa''s bestie.


    ''Damn it, Lora. Is it all a coincidence? Why do you have the same friend as Larisa? You kept denying that you weren''t Larisa, but what are you doing with Bianca Jones?'' Ryan mused.


    Without wasting time, Ryan got to his feet and rushed out. It didn''t take long for him to arrive at his new jewelrypany since he knew Lora would be working from there for the time being. He went straight to Lora''s office and barged in, his heart pounding rapidly in his chest.


    Lora raised her head to look at the door. When she saw that it was Ryan, she arched an eyebrow and asked, "Can I help you? How rude of you to barge in-"


    Ryan approached Lora''s desk. When he looked into Lora''s familiar eyes, he calmed down and said, "Lora, I have something I want to confirm with you."

 Chapter 15~ Stalking

    Chapter 15- Stalking


    "Mr Kingsley, it''s rude toe into my office without knocking," Lora said in a clipped tone.


    "Lora Davis," Ryan emphasised Lora''s full name, "I have something to confirm with you."


    "What''s the matter? If it''s work-rted, I''m already working on my first design and I''ll let you know when I am done," Lora answered. "Lora. No, Larisa to be exact. I want to talk about your identity," Ryan said, looking intently into Lora''s eyes.


    Hearing Larisa''s name again, Lora couldn''t help but roll her eyes. She didn''t understand why Ryan was so obsessed with her identity. "Mr. Kingsley, I''ve exined it many times. If you have mental problems, please go to the hospital for treatment, I am not a doctor. "


    Ryan seemed to expect Lora''s response. He looked at Lora with a smile, slowly took out his phone, and showed her the picture on his phone. Lora nced at the picture on Ryan''s phone but her face did nothing to betray her emotions.


    "Mr Kingsley, I don''t know who this Larisa you keep talking about is but why do you have a picture of me and my friend?" She remarked. Ryan furrowed his eyebrows. Lora was too calm. Could it be that he had overreacted?


    "How did you be friends?" Ryan asked suspiciously.


    "It''s none of your business, Mr Kingsley, but, I met Bianca three years ago. She also mistook me for someone else and kept following me around. We became friends since then," Lora exined calmly. "Are you sure?" Ryan asked, his heart sinking as the hope that had ignited within him died out.


    "Why are you so interested in my personal life, Mr Kingsley? I don''t think it''s appropriate," Lora stated. Ryan took a step back, his heart clenching in pain. He nced at Lora and answered, "You look like Larisa. If I didn''t know she was an orphan, I would think you were identical twins."


    "Mmmmm, and this Larisa, who was she to you? You''re so obsessed with her," Lora asked.


    However, Ryan didn''t answer that question. He put his phone away and asked instead, "How far with your work?"


    To Lora, Ryan''s response showed her that he was still hellbent on keeping his marriage a secret. His wife was dead and he still couldn''t talk about her openly.


    He really was ruthless.


    She sneered internally and nced at Ryan coldly before replying, "I''m working on it."


    "Mr Kingsley, how long do you intend to stay in my office?" Lora added in annoyance.


    "Well, you have a contract with me and before it ends, expect you to follow the terms in the contract," Ryan remarked.


    "Ok. Now, please excuse me, Mr Kingsley, I don''t want your fiancee to get the wrong idea," Lora said firmly.


    Ryan had no other excuse to stay in Lora''s office, so he left. His phone rang the moment he walked out.


    "Hello, Adan," he answered.


    "Ryan, is she Larisa, have you confirmed her identity?" Adan asked on the phone.


    "Adan, she''s not Larisa. Even though they look alike, she is the daughter of Jack Davis of Davis & Co," Ryan exined.


    "Oh, but how did she know and be friends with Bianca? Is it all too coincidental?"


    "I guess it''s just a coincidence. They met and became friends... everything is just so confusing. She looks and feels like Larisa but she doesn''t seem to know me," Ryan replied bitterly. "Someone sounds disappointed," Adan said. "I''ll help you investigate to know for sure. I have a few guys who are good at finding out things."


    "Ok, then I''ll have to rely on you for information," Ryan responded and cut the call.


    Despite various facts proving that Lora is Jack Davis''s daughter, Ryan was still skeptical. ''Maybe if Adan finishes investigating, I''ll be able to let her go, Ryan thought. "Ryan..."


    Ryan paused when he heard Ivy''s voice. He frowned but he turned to look at her.


    "Ivy, why aren''t you in your office?"


    Ivy smiled. She answered, "Someone told me you were here to see me."


    "How do you feel, and are you still adjusting to your new job?" Ryan asked.


    Ivy didn''t miss the sh of guilt in Ryan''s eyes, it was clear that he hadn''te to visit her. He must''vee for Lora. There was wave of hatred in Ivy''s heart, but she didn''t show it at all on the surface.


    "I''m fine, Ryan. I love this job. It''s perfectly in line with my major. I''m working on the first design, you will see it soon," Ivy replied.


    "Great, don''t put too much pressure on yourself," Ryan said.


    "Let''s have lunch together, Ryan," Ivy invited him.


    "I have something nned for lunch with someone, I mean with a partner," Ryan responded.


    For some reason, Ryan didn''t want Ivy to know about his n. He had a gut feeling that Ivy wouldn''t be happy if she knew that Grandpa was going to invite Lora to lunch.


    "What about in the afternoon? I n to go to the doctor in the afternoon. Can youe and pick me up for the doctor''s appointment?" Ivy could tell that Ryan was hiding something from her, so she continued to ask. "Okay, I''ll take you to the hospital to see a doctor in the afternoon." As soon as Ivy mentioned her legs, Ryan relented. He didn''t want to disappoint Ivy.


    "Okay, I''ll see you in the afternoon, Ryan." Ivy knew Ryan''s weakness and after receiving a satisfactory answer, she left with a smile.


    Ryan sighed as Ivy disappeared from his sight. Thinking of his grandfather''s request, Ryan walked towards Lora''s office again.


    Lora opened the door to her office but before she could walk out, Ryan suddenly appeared and walked in.


    Lora frowned and questioned, "Why are you back? Mr Kingsley, this is stalking."


    Ryan arched an eyebrow and began to approach Lora. With each step that he took forward, she stepped back. "What are you doing?" Lora asked, her eyes widening.


    "Showing you what stalking is," Ryan replied with a side smirk as he got closer.


    Hearing Ryan''s words, Lora''s eyes turned cold as she looked at Ryan and said, "Mr Kingsley, is this a fetish of yours?"


    Ryan was taken aback by Lora''s sudden coldness. He was about to reply when Lora''s voice stopped him. "You have a fiancee and yet, here you are, flirting with me. Have you always been such a scumbag?"N?velDrama.Org (C) content.

 Chapter 16~ Lunch

    Chapter 16- Lunch


    "Lora..." Ryan said through gritted teeth. "How dare you call me a scumbag?"


    Even though he was just teasing her after she used him of stalking her, he didn''t expect her to call him that.


    Anger bubbled up within him as he red at Lora.


    "Isn''t this what scumbags do?" Lora asked calmly. "You have no reason to get so close to me, Mr Kingsley. Please respect yourself and be more professional."


    Ryan''s jaw clenched before he stepped away from Lora. He scoffed and replied, "Don''t be so full of yourself, Miss Lora."


    Lora let out a sigh of relief. With Ryan getting so close, it was hard to keep her hatred in check and she didn''t want to expose herself.


    "I''m not full of myself but I expect the both of us to act professional and not cross the line," Lora stated firmly.


    Ryan frowned but he didn''t say anything as he tried to calm down from the embarrassment of being rejected.


    "Why did youe back to my office anyway? I''m on my way out," Lora said.


    She didn''t like how Ryan kept giving her attention. He was dangerous.


    Ryan finally remembered why he had returned to Lora''s office. He nced at her and remarked, "The chairman would like to meet our new partner, so I came here to invite you for lunch with him." Lora arched an eyebrow and asked, "Is it a business lunch meeting or...?"


    "Of course, it''s business. Do you want it to be something else?" Ryan replied, his eyes boring into Lora''s hazel ones as a side smirk crossed his lips.


    For a moment, he was lost in her captivating eyes. That face would always remind him of what he had lost.


    Larisa...


    However, he recalled that the woman he was looking at wasn''t Larisa and came back to his senses. ''Shit, I need to stopparing the two women. It''s not fair to Larisa,'' Ryan thought.


    He pulled at his tie in frustration and remarked, "Look, don''t read too much into it. The chairman always meets our new partners to talk further about the cooperation. I might be the CEO but he''s the overall boss." Lora frowned and appeared to be thinking about Ryan''s request. ''It has been so long since I saw Grandpa.


    Charles Kingsley had been good to Lora when she was married to Ryan six years ago. After receiving unconditional kindness from him in the past, Lora couldn''t refuse the old man''s request.


    She sighed and answered, "I can spare a few minutes for lunch. Is he already at the location or do we have to pick him up?"


    Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Chapter 16-Lunch


    "We will find him at the restaurant," Ryan replied before leading Lora out of the office.


    Lora internally sighed as she left her office. She hoped this would be thest time she would be entangled with Ryan.


    Meanwhile, Jason just happened to arrive at thepany to invite Lora for lunch. However, before he could step out of the car, he saw her leave thepany with Ryan and enter his car. Jason''s eyes narrowed as he watched Ryan''s car drive away. Why was Ryan so interested in Lora? It couldn''t be only because she''s beautiful and part of a prestigious family.


    Ivy was part of a prestigious family too, so why would Ryan pay attention to Lora?


    ''Am I missing something? Jason thought to himself.


    He took out his phone and called someone, saying, "I want you to investigate Ryan and what he''s been up to since he became CEO."


    At the same time, it didn''t take long for Ryan and Lora to arrive at the restaurant.


    "Grandpa," Ryan said the moment they walked into the VIP booth and found Charles waiting for them.


    Charles nced at the woman who walked in after Ryan and his eyes widened into saucers. His jaw dropped to the floor in shock. The woman looked exactly like Larisa!


    ''No wonder my son looked disturbed the other day, this woman looks just like my granddaughter-inw!'' Charles eximed in his mind.


    He was thrilled to see Lora, regardless of who she was. Her face reminded him of the youngdy who tragically lost her life six years ago. Lora saw the old man''s expression and smiled before saying politely, "Good afternoon, Mr Kingsley. It''s an honour to finally meet you." Although it saddened her, she had no choice but to pretend to be a stranger to the old man.


    Charles got over his initial shock and a huge smile was stered on his face.


    "Good afternoon, Miss Davis, take a seat!" He remarked, gesturing with his hand to the chair opposite him. "I wanted to meet our new partner and also, to see what the daughter of the Davis family looks like. Indeed, it is as the news says." "Thank you, Mr Kingsley," Lora replied with a kind smile and took a seat.


    Ryan studied Lora''s expression once again before taking a seat next to her. Even though they looked like a couple visiting an elder, their hearts couldn''t be more far apart.


    They ordered the food and as they waited, Charles kept chatting with Lora.


    "So, where had you been before your parents found you?" Charles asked.


    Lora smiled and replied, "I was abroad, studying design. They had hired a private investigator who found me after a long time."


    Chapter 16- Lunch


    Charles nodded. He nced at his grandson before saying, "Miss Davis must have suffered a lot before her parents found her. She''s such a strong woman."


    "I tried my best to survive," Lora uttered and Ryan nced at her.


    She was calm and kept answering Charles'' personal questions politely. Although she was a bit distant, Ryan could see that she was being friendly towards his grandfather.


    "A survivor is what you are! Oh, how life is unpredictable," Charles remarked and added, "I like you, Miss Davis. Do visit this old man from time to time."


    "Did you want to discuss the cooperation?" Lora asked, wondering when he would talk about it.


    Charles chuckled and pushed a few dishes towards Lora. "I''m sure Ryan has it all under control. I hope you work well together. We''ve always wanted to work with Davis & Co." Lora nodded and continued to eat.


    Suddenly, Ryan''s phone rang.


    He picked it up and frowned before getting to his feet.


    "Grandpa, something happened to Ivy. I need to go-"


    "Ryan, we have a guest, it''s rude to leave in the middle of lunch," Charles scolded his grandson.


    However, Ryan nced at Lora and said before rushing out, "Get a cab back."


    Natie Author


    Thank you for reading.

 Chapter 17~ Guilt

    Chapter 17- Guilt


    "Ivy, what happened?" Ryan asked anxiously the moment he walked into Ivy''s hospital VIP ward.


    He had rushed over the moment Ivy called and said she had been injured. Looking at her legs covered in bandages, guilt crept into him and squeezed his heart.


    Ivyy on the bed as the doctor tended to her.


    "Ryan, you''re here," she said in a soft pitiful voice. "Don''t worry, I''m fine, the injuries are not serious."


    Hearing her say that when she was clearly in pain filled Ryan''s heartpletely with guilt.


    He nced at the doctor and inquired, "Doctor, tell me her condition. How is she?"


    The doctor who happened to be Ivy''s physiotherapist, Richard Hart, looked at Ryan and sighed.


    "Why was Miss Williams left alone without help? It could have been dangerous and life-threatening," Doctor Richard said. Ryan''s heart jumped into his throat. Life threatening?


    He never wanted to experience someone dying because he couldn''t protect them again. It was the worst feeling ever. "Is she ok?" He asked the doctor.


    Doctor Richard nodded and replied, "She''s fine now but her legs are injured. She needs extra care in the next few days." Ryan let out a sigh of relief. He asked again, "What about her legs? Any hope that she will start to use her legs soon?"


    The doctor pushed his sses up his nose and responded, "Miss Williams is slowly gaining sensation in her legs, Mr Kingsley, so these burns must be very painful. It''s easy for her to start from the beginning if she keeps getting injured like this. She needs extra care or she may never walk again if she keeps getting trauma to her legs."


    Ryan clenched his hands into fists. They had tried everything but no one seemed to have a solution to help Ivy with her legs.


    "Doctor Richard, do you know any experts that we can fly in to treat Ivy''s legs? Money is not a problem," Ryan asked.


    Ivy gasped at his words. She held his hand and remarked, "Ryan, there''s no need to spend so much money on me. What if there''s nothing that can be done? You would have wasted your money for nothing." "Don''t say that, you deserve the best care," Ryan replied and nced at the doctor, waiting for an answer. "Um... I don''t know any for now, but I''ll ask around and get a few rmendations," Doctor Richard replied.


    "ed those rmendations soon," Ryan ordered.


    "Of course," Doctor Richard answered and cleared his throat. "Please excuse me."


    Chapter 17-GuiltN?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    +25 BONU


    When the doctor left, Ryan stared at Ivy and asked, "What happened? How did you get burnt?"


    Ivy sighed and replied, "I didn''t want to have lunch alone, but I knew you had more important business to attend to, so I chose to just have a cup of coffee. I just wanted to save my lunchtime so I could spend more time designing my work. I hope I can be helpful to yourpany." Seeing Ryan''s expression grow more and more guilty, Ivy continued, "So, I went to make some coffee for myself when the kettle fell on my leg and the hot water burnt me."


    Ryan recalled Ivy had wanted to have lunch with him but he had refused. More guilt crept into him as he thought it was his fault that she got hurt.


    Looking at Ryan''s expression, Ivy added, "Don''t worry about it, Ryan. It doesn''t hurt that much. Compared to not being able to walk, this pain is nothing. I am getting used to it."


    "What do you mean it doesn''t hurt that much when you''re clearly in pain?" Ryan questioned. "Don''t be so careless next time and ask someone to help you."


    "I just didn''t want to be a burden to anyone, especially to you," Ivy remarked."


    Ryan furrowed his eyebrows and stated, "You will never be a burden."


    Ivy secretly smirked at his words.


    She had learned that Ryan was nning to invite Lora to lunch with his Grandfather, so she tried to stop the lunch, but Ryan stuck to his lunch n. ''Damn you, Larisa, you''re ghostly.''


    ''In the past, Ryan''s grandfather liked you. After you died, Ryan''s grandfather still prevented Ryan from marrying me.


    ''Now, even Lora, who looks like you caught that old man''s attention. You''re damned!''


    Ivy developed a sense of crisis. She thought the old man would push Ryan to pursue Lora and she couldn''t let that happen. Since she couldn''t stop them from meeting, she nned to sabotage their meeting.


    That was when she came up with a n to hurt herself to interrupt their lunch, and luckily, Ryan came rushing as always.


    ''Mmmmm, Lora Davis, you can''t win against me. No one can win against me. Ryan is mine,'' Ivy said in her mind.


    Ryan didn''t know her thoughts and suggested, "Let me take you home."


    "I''ll have to trouble you then. I''m sorry I disturbed your lunch with the partner," Ivy remarked.


    (


    "There''s no problem," Ryan replied before carrying Ivy and cing her in the wheelchair.


    On the way, Ivy ced her hand on Ryan''s arm and asked, "Ryan, when can I visit Grandpa? It has been a while since I saw him."


    Ryan''s eyebrows creased. He was about to reply when ivy added, "Actually, I know that Grandpa doesn''t like me. However, I would like to try and make him like me. At least then, we can finally get married." Chapter 17- Guilt


    "You don''t need to do that," Ryan said as he drove th


    "But... if he doesn''t like me, how can we get married? Ivy remarked. "Please let me see him."


    Ryan sighed internally. He knew his grandfather didn'' really guilty.


    ncing at Ivy, he promised, "I''ll announce our engag


    Natie Author


    Thank you for reading.


    10

 Chapter 18~ Justice

    Chapter 18- Justice


    "Lora, you came just in time, dinner is almost ready," Freya Davis, Lora''s mother, said the moment Lora walked into the mansion. Lora smiled and replied, "I''m so lucky, can''t wait to have dinner."


    She had been working overtime to finish the design on time, so she had asked her parents to pick up the kids from school.


    "Mommy, you''re back!" E threw herself into her mother''s arms and Ethan did the same.


    "Hey, my sweethearts," Lora hugged her two children and a warm smile crossed her lips.


    Whenever she saw her children, her heart felt at rest.


    "How was your new school? Do you like it?"


    "It''s the best school!" Ethan replied with a serious expression. "Don''t worry about us, Mommy. We are well taken care of by grandma and grandpa and the teachers at school are so kind." Lora let out a sigh of relief. She had been worried her children would get bullied at school but luckily, all


    went well.


    Looking at her parents, Lora remarked, "Thank you so much, Mom and Dad."


    "You don''t need to thank us. You''re our daughter," Freya replied.


    Jack nodded and said, "That''s right... we are family and family should be there for each other."


    Lora smiled and her eyes glinted with joy.


    The family went to the dining area and sat down for dinner. As they ate, the atmosphere was filled with so much warmth and happiness.


    "Mommy, how was work?" Ethan suddenly asked and silence fell over the table.


    Jack nced at his daughter, waiting for her answer since she had not gotten back to him after signing the contract with the Kingsley group.


    Lora sighed and replied, "Work was ok but I''ll be busy in the next few days."


    Jack shared a look with his wife before looking at Lora and said, "That''s good."


    "Does that mean you will beingte all the time? Is your boss bullying you?" E asked innocently.


    "E, Mommy is the boss," Ethan corrected and the adultsughed.


    "That''s right! Your Mommy is the boss and can''t be bullied!" Jack eximed.


    "I also want to be a boss like Mommy," E stated.


    "You will when you grow up. Eat your food before it gets cold," Freya said.


    "Ok, Grandma!" E eximed and dug into her food.


    After a pleasant dinner, Jack nced at Lora and suggested, "Let''s talk in my study."


    Chapter 18- Justice


    Lora knew what her father wanted to talk about, so she looked at the kids and instructed, "Be good. Mommy is going to chat with Grandma and Grandpa." "Ok, Mommy," Ethan replied.


    When the adults went into the study, Jack sighed. He looked at Lora and asked, "Are you sure about working with Ryan Kingsley?"


    Lora nodded and responded, "Dad, don''t worry. Ryan doesn''t know who I am because he saw the warehouse blow up. He thinks I died six years ago. So, don''t think it''s going to be a problem."


    "He doesn''t know who you are but you know who you are, honey. You still have memories of your sad past. I don''t think this is a good idea. I was already against you returning to the city that holds painful memories for you," Freya said, her heart aching for her daughter. When they found Lora six years ago, she fell into depression at the thought of how Ryan chose to save another woman instead of her.


    Watching her daughter suffer because of a man was heartbreaking and she didn''t want history to repeat itself.


    Lora smiled and her heart felt warm. She nced at her mother and replied, "Mom, don''t worry. I won''t let anyone hurt me ever again. Since I took over from Dad, eded someone to shut the board members up and the Kingsley group was a good choice." "Ok, but if you can''t handle this, let me know. Your mother, uncle and I have enough shares to secure your position-"


    "Dad, don''t worry. I want to prove to the board members that I can do this. If you help me out, they will keep finding reasons to bully me and kick me out eventually," Lora told her father.


    Jack sighed, knowing that Lora was right. He responded, "Your mother and I will always support you. I know you can handle any difficulties but just know that with us around, you don''t need to suffer and put yourself through tough times." Lora smiled, her heart feeling warm. She said, "I know and I''m so d I have parents like you."


    Meanwhile, Ethan returned to the bedroom and his eyes turned cold. He had gone to fetch E a ss of juice when he overheard the conversation between his mother and grandparents.N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    "Ethan, what is it? Why do you look so angry?" E asked as she got the ss of juice from him.


    Ethan scoffed. He said, "It turns out that Ryan Kingsley is our Daddy."


    E''s eyes widened before they lit up. "Are you sure? He''s our Daddy?" Ethan nodded and replied, "He is."


    "Yay! The handsome uncle turns out to be our daddy!" E said happily


    "E, do not be happy so soon. He may be our Daddy but why isn''t he with Mommy? Did he abandon Mommy to be with another woman?" Ethanmented.


    E''s eyes turned sad. "That''s sad. I feel sorry for Mommy."


    Chapter 18- Justice


    "That woman Ivy Williams stole our Daddy from Mommy! We have to punish her!" Ethan dered.


    What Ethan didn''t tell E was that he also heard something about a warehouse and an explosion. Although he didn''t know what happened back then, Ethan had a gut feeling that it was something that hurt his mother a lot.


    He wasn''t going to tell E about the explosion, he wanted his sister to be innocent and suffer less. He will investigate the explosion himself.


    Listening to Ethan''s deration, E looked serious and nodded, "Yes! We need to get justice for Mommy!"


    Natie


    Author


    Thank you for reading.


    102

 Chapter 19~ The news

    Chapter 19- The news


    "Congrattions Miss Williams on your engagement!"


    As soon as Ivy Williams arrived at thepany, she was showered with blessings from her colleagues. As it turned out, Ryan had fulfilled his promise and announced that they would be having an engagement party in a few weeks. Social media had gone wild with such news. After several years, the city''s most eligible bachelor had finally decided to settle down with the love of his life.


    Ivy was over the moon!


    ''I knew Ryan still had me in his heart,'' she mused as she smiled at the colleagues.


    "Thank you so much. I told Ryan to wait a bit but he seems eager to make me his wife," she remarked shyly.


    "Of course he''s eager! You''re so beautiful, Miss Williams. I''m sure the boss loves you very much!" One of the colleagues said.


    "That''s right! We kept wondering when he would announce your rtionship officially. We are so happy for you."


    "Only an elegantdy like Miss Williams deserves the boss."


    Ivy smirked at the praises she was receiving. She nced at her colleagues and offered, "Thank you so much for your kind words. To celebrate my uing engagement party, coffee is on me! Feel free to order any treats to go with the coffee!" "Miss Williams is so kind!"


    "I''m d she will be the boss''s wife!"


    After the coffee arrived, Ivy took one cup and went to Lora''s office. She had a smug smirk on her lips as she looked forward to seeing Lora''s face after she told her the news.


    To Ivy, Lora was interested in Ryan and just kept ying hard to get to get his attention. Now that she was sure Ryan still loved her the most, Ivy was relieved


    Lora was engrossed in work when someone knocked at her office door..


    "Come in," she remarked, raising her head to look at the door.


    She furrowed her eyebrows when Ivy opened the door and wheeled herself into her office.


    "What are you doing here?" Lora questioned, feeling irritated.


    It seemed this couple loveding into her office anyhow. Didn''t they have better things to do?


    Ivy approached Lora''s desk and ced the coffee on the table before saying, "I brought you some coffee.


    I got it for everyone to celebrate my engagement."


    "Um, ok," Lora replied tly. "Thanks."


    er 19-The news


    She wasn''t in the mood to tolerate Ivy and her schemes.


    "Aren''t you going to ask me who my fiance is?" Ivy asked.


    "Should I?" Lora said, her eyebrows creasing.


    "Ryan announced that we will be having an engagement party soon and our wedding will soon follow," Ivy announced in a taunting voice. "Congrattions," Lora responded.


    Ivy thought she would see Lora''s expression change but the woman had a poker face. She couldn''t tell what she was thinking.


    "I''ll send you and your family an invitation, after all, our parents are good friends," Ivy remarked, feeling smug.


    Even though Lora looked emotionless, Ivy was sure she was burning with jealousy inside.


    Lora smiled at Ivy and replied, "We will definitely be there. Thanks for the invitation and the coffee. Anything else?"


    "Nothing else. I just wanted to share the good news with you, Lora-"


    "It''s Miss Davis to you. We are not that close," Lora stated.


    "Uh... Ok, Lo- Miss Davis. Are you happy for me?" Ivy asked, a mocking smile crossing her lips.


    "Of course, I''m happy for you. The two of you make a wonderful couple!" Lora replied.


    "Ok... I want to see you at the engagement party," Ivy said haughtily and turned her wheelchair around before leaving Lora''s office.


    ''I won! Ryan will always be mine!'' Ivy thought to herself


    "... Miss Davis has already finished the design."


    Ivy was in a good mood when she suddenly overheard a few colleagues chatting among themselves.


    She paused in her tracks and wheeled herself closer to listen to what they were talking about, her heart racing in her chest.


    ''Lora has already finished her design?'' She asked in her mind.


    "Wow! She''s so awesome! I can''t wait to see her design. For her to form a partnership with Mir Kingsley, she must be good right?" "Do you think she''s better than Miss Williams?"


    "Don''t let anyone hear you saying that. Miss Williams is a famous designer and the boss''s fiancee. We


    can''t talk bad about her."


    "She hasn''t released any work in a while though..."


    "Well, let''s wait and see Miss Davis'' work. Perhaps she will be the new famous designer since her parents are famous designers."


    N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    Chapter 19 The news


    Ivy''s heart sank when she heard what they said. She had been trying toe up with a unique design but no matter how much she tried, she just couldn''t create something satisfying. What if Lora''s design was really good?


    Ivy was flustered. ''Will she steal Ryan''s attention if her work is good?'' She thought.


    On her way to her office, she happened to pass Ryan''s office. He had temporarily moved to the jewelrypany since they were about tounch it soon.


    There was a crack in the door which made her hear everything that was going on in the office. It seemed Ryan was arguing with someone on the phone.


    Ivy got closer and ced her ear to the door to eavesdrop, only for her heart to sink when she realised who Ryan was talking to.


    "... Grandpa, it''s not an official engagement. That will happen during the party-"


    "I''ve already announced it, Grandpa! I can''t just take back my words, that can affect thepany stocks."


    ''So, Ryan''s grandfather wants to stop him from getting engaged to me,'' Ivy said in her mind and she clenched her hands into fists. That old man was so annoying!


    wever, there was nothing she could do. Ryan respected his grandfather so much and he might even do hat he says. Natie


    Author

 Chapter 20~ The design

    Chapter 20- The design


    "As expected from the genius designer, Ivy Williams. Her design is so unique and elegant."


    "Ivy Williams''e back is so powerful! Wow! I need jewelry with her design ASAP!"


    Ivy smirked as she read thements on the social media pages. She was once again in the headlines of jewelry news after so many years, this made her proud. 1


    Ryan''s jewelrypanyunched a few pieces of jewelry using the new design created by Ivy Williams.


    As soon as the jewelry was disyed for sale, they were sold out in minutes. A lot of customers were interested in the unique jewelry design and even made special orders to have more of the jewelry made. The news was all over social media. Ivy Williams was once again making headlines because of her exceptional designing skills.


    Due to the good news, Ryan was in a good mood. Although it came as a surprise since Ivy didn''t show him the design before submitting it to the production team, the response was so good that he didn''t mind.


    "I didn''t know you had finished your design already," he remarked as he looked at the statistics of the sales.


    The rings, earrings and nes made with Ivy''s design were topping the charts. At this rate, Ryan was sure they would dominate the market and be at par with Davis & Co. Jewelry even though they just started.


    "I wanted to surprise you. Do you like my surprise? It''s my first work after going on hiatus for so many years," Ivy remarked.


    "I don''t like that you went behind my back but luckily the design is perfect and there are no repercussions," Ryan replied.


    He was impressed. It seemed Ivy''s skills had improved in thest six years. ''She must have spent some time practising her designing skills.''


    Ivy saw Ryan''s satisfied expression and her heart leapt with joy. She had finally proven herself and she was very sure Ryan''s grandfather would like her now.


    "I won''t go behind your back next time but I''m d you like my design. This calls for a celebration!" Ivy stated.


    She nced at Ryan andmented, "I''m sure Miss Davis will do better, I can''t wait to see her design." After hearing Ivy''s words, Ryan pressed on the inte and said, "Lawrence, arrange for a meeting in the conference room. I would like to see Miss Davis'' design." "I''ll do that right away," Lawrence''s voice resonated from the inte.N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    At the same time, Ivy secretly smirked wickedly. ''Oh Lora, let''s see how you get out of this one now."


    Meanwhile, Lora finally finalized her design after working all night again. She stretched her back and rxed, ready to hand in the design drawings when she arrived at the office today.


    Chapter 20- The design


    "I can finally prove myself to the board members and also end my cooperation with Ryan," Lora muttered to herself.


    With her design, she was confident Ryan''s jewelry would top the charts in terms of sales and poprity.


    After seeing how Ivy and Ryan were now engaged, Lora wanted to end the cooperation before she got entangled with the couple again. Already, Ivy''s visit to her office that other day showed her that thetter was now targeting her.


    ''I can''t wait to go back to my normal life,'' Lora mused.


    Being close to Ryan and Ivy spelled trouble and she wanted to stay clear of them.


    When she arrived at thepany, her assistant, Hannah Collins, approached her and reported, "Miss Davis, Miss Williams released her design earlier than us. Her work has received a lot of positive reviews and the products are topping the charts." Lora arched an eyebrow. She didn''t expect Ivy to be so efficient.


    "Good for her," she remarked calmly.


    "But Ma''am, Miss Williams'' design has gotten a very good response. Won''t this affect your release?" Hannah asked as she followed Lora to her office.


    "The order of release doesn''t matter. I''m very confident my work will be loved," Lora stated.


    Hannah hesitated before saying, "I believe in you, boss! Mr Kingsley has arranged for a meeting. He wants to see your work."


    Lora smiled and grabbed her files. "Then let''s not keep him waiting."


    At the same time, everyone gathered in the conference room as they waited for Lora to arrive and reveal her work.


    As they waited, they couldn''t help but praise Ivy.


    "Miss Williams, your work is so exceptional! You''re a genius! How did youe up with that design?" One of the colleagues asked.


    Ivy smiled and replied, "Ryan has always been my inspiration, I thought of him as I designed the work."


    "That is so romantic, Miss Williams. I must say, with your designing skills, the future of LAN''s luxurious jewelry is bright."


    "Ohe on, don''t tter me. I''m always willing to learn and do better but thank you for your kind words," Ivy replied and the colleagues smiled at her.


    Ivy was already from a rich family and her skills were topnotch, yet she was still so humble. What a kind woman she was. She was the perfect woman for their CEO, Ryan Kingsley.


    "We are just saying the truth, I''m sure Mr Kingsely agrees with us," one of the colleagues said.


    Ryan smiled and remarked, "Miss Williams'' work has pushed our newpany into the industry. Because of her, we''ve quickly captured the market. Let''s give her a round of apuse." While everyone erupted in apuse, Ivy smirked victoriously.


    Chapter 20- The design


    Soon, the doors to the conference room opened and L


    The ce fell deadly silent as they all waited for Lorat


    "Miss Davis, we can''t wait to see your design!" One of t


    Lora nodded and proceeded to do her presentation. H everyone''s eyes widened in shock.


    ''Are they that shocked by my design?'' Lora thought to the next words.


    "Um... Miss Davis, I think your design looks exactly like


    Natie Author


    Thank you for reading.


    10

 Chapter 21~ A thief

    Chapter 21-A thief


    "That''s not possible! This is my work and I have no reason to steal anyone''s work," Lora said, her eyebrows creasing at the usation that one of the employees made.


    She had spent a lot of time on her design for someone to im she copied someone''s work.


    "Miss Davis, we thought you''re good at designing, so why are you iming Miss Williams'' work is yours? It would be great if you admitted your crime and begged Miss Williams for forgiveness," one of the colleagues said "There''s no way Miss Davis would copy someone''s work! Do you know who she is? She''s the-"


    "Hannah," Lora said, stopping Ha


    "But Miss, they-"


    Collins'' words.


    It''s ok. I''ll defend my work. This is my sweat and blood. I don''t know how it ended up being Miss Williams ''work but I''m not changing my statement. I designed this work," Lora said with an air of confidence.


    "Stop trying to act high and mighty! This is Miss Williams'' design! See for yourself!" One of the employees, Be Smith, said.


    Be wanted to get in the good graces of Ivy because she would be the boss''s wife, so she took this as an opportunity to prove herself.


    ''So what if she''s the daughter of the Davis family? Everyone knows the Kingsleys are the most powerful family in the country. I''m better off siding with the futuredy boss,'' she thought in her mind.N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    She opened her phone and showed Lora the trending news on social media. Sure enough, the jewelry design that Ivy had released was identical to the design Lora had just presented.


    However, if one looked closely, one could see that Lora''s design was more detailed with additional features.


    Lora''s eyes widened in shock. "How-"


    "Are you still going to deny that you stole her work?" Be sneered and added. "I didn''t expect the daughter of two famous designers to stoop so low and steal someone''s work." Be''s remark paved the way for the other employees to mock Lora.


    "I heard she wasn''t raised with the Davis family. What can a Country bumpkin know about jewelry? She must have stolen the work because she has no ir for design." "No wonder she dyed to release her work. She was waiting to copy from Miss Williams,"


    "How despicable! She must be banned from the design industry! It''s not fair for us who work hard to create designs and then someone justes and steals like it''s nothing." Be crossed her arms and nced at Lora, she said, "What do you have to say for yourself, Miss Davis? You stole someone''s work, shouldn''t you apologise to Miss Williams?" "I''m not apologising for something I didn''t do," Lora said and gasps echoed around the table.


    Chapter 21-A the!


    Chapter 21-A thief


    "That''s not possible! This is my work and I have no reason to steal anyone''s work," Lora said, her eyebrows creasing at the usation that one of the employees made. She had


    spent a lot of time on her design for someone to im she copied someone''s work.


    "Miss Davis, we thought you''re good at designing, so why are you iming Miss Williams'' work is yours? It would be great if you admitted your crime and begged Miss Williams for forgiveness," one of the colleagues said, "There''s no way Miss Davis would copy someone''s work! Do you know who she is? She''s the-"


    "Hannah," Lora said, stopping Hannah Collins'' words.


    "But Miss, they-"


    "It''s ok. I''ll defend my work. This is my sweat and blood, I don''t know how it ended up being Miss Williams


    work but I''m not changing my statement. I designed this work," Lora said with an air of confidence.


    "Stop trying to act high and mighty! This is Miss Williams'' design! See for yourself!" One of the employees, Be Smith, said.


    Be wanted to get in the good graces of Ivy because she would be the boss''s wife, so she took this as an opportunity to prove herself.


    ''So what if she''s the daughter of the Davis family? Everyone knows the Kingsleys are the most powerful family in the country. I''m better off siding with the futuredy boss,'' she thought in her mind.


    She opened her phone and showed Lora the trending news on social media. Sure enough, the jewelry design that Ivy had released was identical to the design Lora had just presented.


    However, if one looked closely, one could see that Lora''s design was more detailed with additional features.


    Lora''s eyes widened in shock.


    "How-"


    "Are you still going to deny that you stole her work?" Be sneered and added. "I didn''t expect the daughter of two famous designers to stoop so low and steal someone''s work." Be''s remark paved the way for the other employees to mock Lora.


    "I heard she wasn''t raised with the Davis family. What can a Country bumpkin know about jewelry? She must have stolen the work because she has no ir for design. "No wonder she dyed to release her work. She was waiting to copy from Miss Williams."


    "How despicable! She must be banned from the design industry! It''s not fair for us who work hard to create designs and then someone justes and steals like it''s nothing."


    Be crossed her arms and nced at Lora, she said, "What do you have to say for yourself, Miss Davis? You stole someone''s work, shouldn''t you apologise to Miss Williams?" "I''m not apologising for something I didn''t do," Lora said and gasps echoed around the table.


    Chapter 21- Athief


    "Oh my


    God... she''s so shameless. How do you confidently steal someone''s work and refuse to admit it when the evidence is clear?"


    "We can''t work with such a person with no ethical morals."


    "The Davis family will go bankrupt if they leave theirpany in her hands."


    At the same time, Ivy secretly smirked. Everything went as she nned. Lora was put in a tight spot with no way out. Ryan wouldn''t want to continue his partnership with a thief.


    So, she had killed two birds with one stone. Lora''s reputation would be tainted forever and Ryan would forget about her.


    "Miss Davis, did you have difficulties when creating your design? I could have helped you out if you were stuck, you didn''t need to copy mine. You know this is a crime in our industry," Ivy remarked.


    Lora narrowed her eyes at theter. She was certain the case of them having identical designs had something to do with Ivy.


    "How did she steal my work? Lora mused. She always locked her office door whenever she left for lunch and secured her drawings.


    "Miss Williams, you and I both know who this design really belongs to," Lora stated calmly.


    "Of course, it belongs to me. I even released it first. Miss Davis, anyone can see that you copied my work and added details to make it look different," Ivy said and sighed. "I feel sorry for you. You must have felt pressured to prove yourself to your parents and Ryan but stealing my work wasn''t the way to go. If you had asked, I would have helped you with some tips."


    Lora scoffed. Bravo! Ivy Williams was a good actress! She would win an Oscar for her acting skills.


    "Miss Williams, you''re so kind. This woman stole your design and you''re still feeling sorry for her. She should be punished for her crime," Be said.


    Ivy had a worried look on her face and looked at Ryan before saying, "Ryan, you won''t punish Miss Davis, right? I think she has a good exnation for her actions."


    Ryan narrowed his eyes at Lora. When he saw her struggle to defend herself, disappointment crept into him. He hated people who lied and schemed the most.


    "Miss Davis, I''m giving you five seconds to exin yourself," Ryan said through gritted teeth.


    Lora furrowed her eyebrows. The man had alreadybelled her a thief in his mind. She forced a smile and replied firmly, "I didn''t steal anyone''s work."


    "Miss Davis, have some shame!" Be eximed.


    "What do you mean she should have some shame? If anything, it''s Miss Williams who should be ashamed because she stole Miss Davis'' work. My boss would never giarise, I''m confident in her skills!" Hannah remarked and some of the colleagues from the Davis & Co.pany agreed with her.


    "There must be something wrong. If Miss Davis didn''t have any design skills, the CEO wouldn''t have let her take over thepany," one of them said.


    "She only got that position because she''s the owner''s daughter not with her own ability," Be said.


    Chapter 21-Athief


    Hannah''s eyes shed with anger. She stepped forward and proposed, "I suggest we have apetition to see who really has the ability to create such an exceptional design. The one who loses is the giariser." "What? Are you crazy? Why should we hold apetition when it''s clear Miss Williams will win?" Be


    asked.


    "I''m in," Lora agreed without hesitation. "I can do a hundredpetitions to prove that the design is mine."


    Silence fell over the ce and everyone nced at Ivy. Although she was angry that things had reached this point, she had no choice but to agree.


    "I''m in too," Ivy said begrudgingly.


    Since bothdies had agreed, Ryan got to his feet and proimed, "Let''s hold a meeting after a week to see the best design."


    Natie


    Author


    Thank you for reading.

 Chapter 22~ Wish you luck

    Chapter 22-Wish you!


    Chapter 22- Wish you luck


    [Lora Davis, new CEO of Davis & Co. in a giarism scandal.]


    [Ivy Williams and Lora Davis topete in a week. Who will emerge as the real GOAT?


    [Lora Davis steals Ivy Williams'' design idea.]


    The news about Lora''s giarism spread through the city like a wild forest fire and the inte was blowing up with headlines about the matter.


    Lora was passing through the main office when she heard the employees talking about the news.


    "This scandal won''t be good for ourpany. I''ve already noticed that the stocks are dropping." someone remarked.


    "Yeah... I can''t believe they both name up with the same design. One of them is definitely lying."


    "Who do you think will win thepetition? Miss Lora seemed confident in the meeting room."


    "Of course, it''s Miss Williams. We all know Miss Williams is a famous designer but Miss Davis is a nobody who got rich overnight after her parents rescued her from poverty. There''s no way she would win," Be Smith uttered.


    "I don''t think it''s right for you to judge Miss Davis when you don''t even know her. Let''s wait for thepetition and see the results. Then we can judge," one of a few who were on Lora''s side remarked.


    "That''s right. Miss Davis is the daughter of two renowned Jewelry designers after all. I''m looking forward to seeing what she wille up with."


    "Oh please! She''s a thief and I hope Mr Kingsley deals with her for stealing his fiancee''s work!" Be yelled.


    From where they stood, Hannah nced at Lora and said, "Miss Davis, don''t mind them. Let me tell them off-"


    "It''s ok. It''s just some bored employees passing the time by chatting. No need," Lora replied. She looked at Hannah and stated, "If there''s any news from thepany, let me know. I want to concentrate on my design for the next few days." Lora walked away after saying those words. However, on her way to her office, she bumped into the one person she didn''t want to meet.


    "Look who''s here... it''s the design thief herself," Ivy sneered.


    Lora rolled her eyes. This woman was really shameless. She stole her work and still had the guts to call the owner of the work a thief.


    "Miss Williams, excuse t Lora remarked coldly.


    I don''t have time to y games with you, I have a new design to work on,"


    "A new design? You mean you want to steal from me again? Haha!" Ivyughed like a maniac. "Save yourself from the embarrassment and forfeit thepetition. You have no ce here... I''m the only one who can work with Ryan."


    Chapter 22- Wish you luck


    Lora wanted tough. ''So, you''ve finally decided to show your true colours, huh? She said in her mind.


    "How are you going to work with Ryan exactly? Are you going to copy everyone''s designs to be able to stay in thepany?" Lora asked and anger shed through Ivy''s eyes.


    "Don''t think I have no idea about your ns, Miss Davis. But they won''t work because I''ll be here to stop you. I won''t let you take Ryan away from me," Ivy spat, her eyes flickering with hatred for the woman in front of her.


    She hated her! Especially that face that looked so much like that bitch, Larisa! It''s like she came back.


    from hell to haunt and torment her!


    Lora sneered and nced at Ivy with contempt. She took a step forward and bent a little to be at eye-level with Ivy before saying, "Do you think everyone''s like you? I don''t give a fuck about Ryan. There''s nothing special about him. The only thing I''ll take from you is my design! I won''t let the likes of you steal my work and get away with it."


    "You..."


    H


    "Miss Williams, you don''t have....e to cause trouble for me. You should be looking for inspiration toe up with a design before the deadline. I wish you luck," Lora said and Ivy''s heart sank as panic crept into her.


    She was hoping to chase Lora away before the deadline but it seemed Lora had no intention of leaving despite the humiliation she faced in Ryan''spany.


    "I wish you luck as well. May the best designer win," Ivy replied, pretending to be calm.


    Lora smirked and said, "I''m d we are on the same page."


    It waster in the day when Jason showed up to see Lora. When she went outside, she found him. standing in front of his car with a bouquet of red roses in his hands.


    "Jason, why are you here?" Lora asked. A lot of colleagues who were going in and out of thepany kept looking at them and whispering among themselves.


    Jason looked like a CEO from a romantic novel who came to pursue his love interest. He was handsome, in an expensive suit with his sandy brown hair styled like a nobleman from an aristocratic movie. "Lora, I came to cheer you up," Jason remarked with a gentle smile. "You got this!"


    Lora smiled. She approached Jason and asked, "Are you cheering me up because I couldn''te up with my own design and stole someone''s work?"


    "No. I know you didn''t copy anyone''s work. I can never doubt you. I''m here to cheer you up and to assure you that I trust you. You will definitely win thepetition," Jason dered.


    Lora''s eyes widened slightly. She didn''t expect Jason to believe her so easily... Unlike Ryan who couldn''t even listen to her side first before concluding, Jason didn''t doubt her and trusted her blindly.


    Warmth crept into her heart and she received the flowers from Jason. She sniffed them and said with at smile, "Thank you, Jay. Your trust in me really means a lot."


    20N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    Chapter 22-Wish you luck


    Natie Author


    Thank you for reading.


    3

 Chapter 23~ A birthmirk

    resor procong fan and


    Parmed or


    When Lawrence let the office Ran me to focus on the work but he jus cort ne mes to upy


    moet by reading a book or checking the fingey Sumanistes Regardiens he couldn''t bring mself to focus on anythingN?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    after


    meth


    ""Whers wrong with me? he mused


    Suddenly, he took me sader and logged me thepany''s surveince to check the footage from sarier Sure enough, he saw how Lara recewed fowers from Jason. The two locked ike a perfect couple who were desoju in love with each ther


    Ran found moef cenching his hands on the naber ignity and the red Superman powers, the tabler would have been ouched by the meer orangh ne verroding it with


    ne thought about the scanda and mutered need no ask her why she plegatser T''I NOTE"


    her office he immediately saw her so


    *few minutester Ryan opened Lor''s door and walked engrossed in her work that the didn''t even reaise someone had emered tercice


    She had pulled her tar imo a messy bun and her head was lowered as she drew someting


    As an roached her desk, he couldn''t help but notice how beautifully breath-taking she looked right


    brows were fumowed in deep concentration and her lower ip was ed betwe


    ween her teeth. For a moment, this image reminders Ryan of histe wife Laca


    To was now the locked whenever she became focused on something


    Chapter 23-A birthrnick


    Ryan felt his heart clench at the memory.


    He walked around Lora''s desk, hoping to see what she was so engrossed in, however, he frowned when he saw the birthmark on the back of her neck and his heart skipped a beat.


    Ryan''s hands trembled and his heart began to race erratically. Lora had a reddish-pink cloud-shaped patch on the back of her neck just like Larisa.


    "How can she look like Larisa and have a birthmark on the same spot? Is this all a coincidence? Ryan asked in his mind as he stepped closer.


    He wanted to raise his hand and touch the birthmark but Lora suddenly raised her head and almost jumped in her seat.


    "Mr Kingsley?" Lora eximed, her heart racing after being caught off guard. "Can I help you?"


    Ryan narrowed his eyes at Lora. He stepped back and shoved his hands into his pockets before saying. "1 came to inspect your work to prevent you from giarising." Lora red at Ryan and spat, " contest to prove myself."


    I didn''t steal anyone''s work and that''s why I''m participating in this


    to save for


    Ryan shrugged and nonchntly said, "Who knows? Maybe you would do it again to save face."


    Anger red through Lora. She replied icily, "Mr Kingsley, if you think so badly of my character, we should end our partnership. I can''t work with someone who doesn''t trust me."


    "So you''re trying to run away after creating a mess?" Ryan questioned.


    "I didn''t say I''m running away. As you can see, I''m trying to prove that I didn''t steal anyone''s work. Mr. Kingsley, I don''t care if you don''t believe me, but as a designer, I take pride in my work. I would never steal anyone''s work and im it as my own. I''m not that type of person," Lora said in a stern voice, hoping the man would get it into his head.


    When Ryan didn''t reply, she added, "Normally, I would mind my own business when provoked and not fight back, but this is my work we are talking about. I won''t let anyone take credit for it. Never."


    ''Did she really not steal the design? Ryan asked in his mind as he studied Lora''s eyes.


    The sharpness in her eyes and how confident she sounded made him believe her for some reason. However, he also didn''t think Ivy could be that wicked. She knew the jewelrypany was important to him, why would she sabotage it? Ryan didn''t want to conclude this matter without verifying. He nced at Lora and remarked, "We shall


    see."

 Chapter 24~ Diane

    Chapter 24- Diane


    Lora had just pulled an all-nighter when her phone rang early in the morning. When she saw who was calling, her eyes lit up as she picked up the call, "Uncle"


    "Good morning. Lora, I came backst night," the man said on the phone.


    "That''s great, Uncle! Are you here for good or...?" Lora asked.


    The man chuckled on the phone. He answered, "Let''s talk in person. How about I treat my dear niece to lunch today?"


    Lora sighed. She asked, "Uncle, do you still not want to go home? We can have lunch at home. Dad misses you a lot."


    There was a pause on the other side of the phone before a response came. "I miss my brother too but I''ll be nagged the moment I step foot there... you know I gave up the family jewelry business and your father wasn''t happy about it. So, for now, let''s just say I''m scared of his wrath... save your dear uncle, ok?"


    Loraughed in amusement. She nodded even though he couldn''t see her through the phone before saying, "Ok, I''ll meet you in th ernoon for lunch, Uncle."


    When the call was cut, Lora continued her work. In the afternoon, she ced her documents in a file and put them in a drawer under her desk. Thereafter, she grabbed her bag and left her office.


    It didn''t take long for her to arrive at the restaurant. She walked in and looked around. When she saw a young handsome man with dark brown hair and hazel eyes, she smiled to herself.


    The man was innocently sipping on a cup of coffee but thedies in the restaurant couldn''t stop admiring his charm.


    Lora approached the man and eximed, "Hi, Uncle Alden!"


    Aiden Davis raised his head when he heard Lora''s voice. He smiled, showing his perfect dimples.


    "Lora!" Aiden got to his feet and hugged his niece. "I missed you so much kiddo."


    Aiden Davis was Jack Davis'' younger brother who was born when Jack was already married. Aiden was the same age as Lora even though their rtionship was uncle and niece, so they got along well. "I missed you more and the twins couldn''t stop asking about you!" Lora eximed.


    They took their seats and ordered their food before continuing to catch up.


    Alden nced at Lora and remarked, "I saw your giarism story when I got off the nest night. What -happened? Do you need your handsome uncle to help you out?"


    Loraughed out loud. She replied, "Oh uncle, everyone knows you''re handsome. You don''t need to emphasise it every time."


    The waiter came through to serve their drinks and Lora paused for a few seconds. When the waiter left, she looked at her uncle and said, "Don''t worry, Uncle. I''ve got everything under control." Alden frowned. He stated, "I just don''t want anyone to bully my niece."


    "No one can bully me, Uncle. You taught me how to protect myself, remember?" Lora remarked.


    Chapter 24- Diane


    Aiden nodded and smirked, exposing a dimple on one side. He replied, "It seems you''ve improved a lot in the few months that I was away from you guys."


    #


    While Lora and Aiden continued to eat and chat, Ryan entered the restaurant with a dark-haired woman by his side.


    "Bro, it''s been long since you bought me a meal," Diane said, grabbing Ryan''s arm excitedly.


    Diane Kingsley was Ryan''s sister. Their mother had two children before she died and their father married someone else whoter had a daughter.


    Ryan smiled and replied gently, "Eat whatever you want, little sis."


    He suddenly saw a familiar figure in the restaurant and his eyes squinted. ''She''s on a date with another man again''


    A re of fierce jealousy rushed through him and before he knew it, he was approaching their table.


    "Miss Davis..." He called out through clenched teeth. Lora raised her head and frowned when she saw Ryan. She was about to respond when Ryan beat her to it.


    He arched an eyebrow and c on dates with different men:


    tioned, "Shouldn''t you be focussing on thepetition instead of going


    Lora furrowed her eyebrows. She red at Ryan and spat, "You have no right to interfere in my private life, Mr Kingsley."


    Ryan''s jaw clenched. He was so angry that he wanted to punch the man who was having lunch with Lora.


    "Larisa? You''re alive?!" Diane who had been shocked after seeing Lora finally eximed.Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Ryan nced at his sister and exined, "This is Lora Davis, She''s the new CEO of Davis & Co. and Mr Jack Davis'' daughter."


    Diane''s eyes that had watered with tears widened into the size of dinner tes. Lora was so identical to herte sister-inw, Larisa, and if she didn''t have a different name, Diane would have thought she was the one.


    After a few seconds, Diane recovered quickly. She looked at Lora and remarked, "Nice to meet Miss


    you, Davis, my name is Diane Kingsley and I''m Ryan''s baby sister. I have a feeling we are going to be great friends."


    She turned to look at Aiden and her eyes widened in shock. "It''s you!!"


    Lora arched an eyebrow and asked, "Do you know him?"


    Diane looked upset as she replied, "He''s a pervert I met on the ne."


    Lora gave her uncle a questioning gaze and Aiden let out a chuckle.


    He shook his head at Lora and said, "It''s a story for another day."


    "A story for another day?" Diane yelled while ring at Aiden. She grabbed a ss of water from the table and was about to ssh it on his face when Lora intervened.


    "I think it''s a misunderstanding, Miss Kingsley. There''s no way he would be a pervert. He''s a good man,"


    Chapter 24- Dar


    Lora defended.


    Ryan''s eyes narrowed at Lora. Hearing her defend the man so quickly, his heart burned with indescribable jealousy.


    Natie


    Author


    Thank you for reading.

 Chapter 25~ The deadline

    Chapter 25- The deadline


    Days came and went....


    Finally, the deadline for thepetition had arrived and everyone was looking forward to seeing the new designs of the two women.


    In thest week, thepetition between the famous designer and the daughter of two famous designers was all that was being talked about in the entertainment and business news, so everyone wanted to know the oue.


    That morning, when Lora arrived at thepany, she bumped into Ivy Williams. She rolled her eyes as she thought, Just my luck to meet this troublesome woman as soon as I get to work."


    Ivy didn''t miss an opportunity to provoke Lora. She stopped her wheelchair in Lora''s way and said in a taunting voice, "Miss Davis, I''ll give you a chance to forfeit the match before we go to the conference room. It would be embarrassing if you made a fool of yourself by copying my design and showing it to everybody once again."


    "Why are you so anxious on my behalf, Miss Williams? Don''t worry, I''m very confident in my work," Lora responded and began to walk away. et dies


    "Why can''t you just disappear


    leave Ryan alone?! He''s mine!" Ivy yelled.


    Lora paused and turned to nce at Ivy before saying, "I''m not interested in someone''s trash."


    ""You-"


    Ivy clenched her hands


    fists as Lora walked away. She red at her with hatred and thought, "Just


    you wait, Lora. After today, Ryan will never want to see you again."


    At the same time, Lora walked to her office and found Hannah Collins, her assistant. She was holding a bouquet of red roses.


    Lora arched an eyebrow. She asked, "Are you getting me flowers now, Hannah?"


    Hannah grinned from ear to ear. She replied, "No, Ma''am. These flowers were left by Mr Anderson. There''s even a card inside."


    Lora smiled. She hadn''t seen Jason in a while since she wanted to concentrate on the design. She got the flowers and removed the card to read it. [Wishing you the best today.]


    A bigger smile yed on Lora''s lips. She nced at Hannah and instructed, "Bring a vase and put these flowers."


    "Just like Mr Anderson, I''m wishing you the best too. I know you''re going to win this boss," Hannah


    remarked.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    Lora nodded and asked, "Is everything ready?"


    "Yes, I''ve prepared everything." Hannah replied.


    Lora smirked and said, "Then we are set."


    Chapter 25- The deadline


    Soon, it was time to gather in the conference room for the two women to present their designs. Ryan had called three jewelry critiques to act as the judges for thepetition to make it fair. Ivy was quick to start. She wheeled herself to the front and said, "I spent sleepless nights on this design. Please be nice."


    After those words, she presented her work on the whiteboard with the help of her colleague. As soon as everyone saw the drawings, a few gasps echoed around the room.


    Be Smith was the first to praise Ivy''s work. She eximed, "Wow! Miss Williams, your new design is so good. How did you manage to create two amazing designs in a short period of time?" The other employeesplimented Ivy''s work too


    "Oh my... I wish I was as talented as you, Miss Williams


    "Talented is an understatement. You''re a genius, Miss Williams!"


    "I would like you to be my mentor. I''ve always wished to reach this level in my design career."


    "Without seeing the other design, you''ve already won thispetition, Miss Williams."


    At the same time, Lora''s eyes w I need in shock when she saw Ivy''s work. When everyone saw Lora''s expression, they thought she had thrown in the towel.


    Ivy secretly smirked before looking at Lora with a sympathetic gaze. She asked, "Miss Davis, are you ok?"


    She didn''t wait for Lora to respond and continued, "Don''t worry if your design is not good. With practice,


    I''m sure you will reach my level soon."


    Sighing, she added, "I understand you very well, Miss Davis. After all, you only studied design for a few years andck experience in this area. I don''t expect you to be as good as me who''s been doing this for a long time. However, as long as you practice well and change your mindset of giarising, you will definitely be able to create your own work in the future."


    "Does that mean Miss Davis copied Miss Williams'' work again? One of the employees asked.


    "I think so... she looks so shocked that Miss Williams presented first. I''m sure she wanted to do it first


    and act like she designed the work. She''s so lucky Miss Williams is a good person."


    "Wow, indeed, you''re the kindest, Miss Williams. You''re so generous. Even after your work was stolen, you''re still trying to help the thief," Be Smith remarked.


    "Wait, aren''t you people being ridiculous? Miss Davis hasn''t even presented her work yet!" Hannah couldn''t help but say.


    "Isn''t it obvious from her reaction that she stole Miss Williams'' work again? She doesn''t even dare say anything. How shameless."


    "I''m sure she will be banned from the design Industry now."


    "She just has to be banned! We don''t want anyone who has no morals and steals other people''s work with no shame!"


    Be nced at Ivy and said, "Miss Williams, we are sorry you had to go through this. I know how it feels.


    Chapter 25- The deading


    to work so hard and have someone steal your work. Some people tried to be like you but their ns failed. You''re still the best of the best!"


    "Oh, please... don''t tter me. I try my best and I hope Miss Davis will do the right thing from now on," Ivy remarked. She looked at Ryan and added, "Don''t report Miss Davis, Ryan. She just needs time to hone her skills."


    Ryan stared at Lora and when he saw how quiet she was, he felt a little sympathetic towards her. He asked, "Miss Davis, do you have anything else to say?"


    Lora suddenlyughed.


    Natie

 Chapter 26~ The real thief

    Chapter 26 The real thief


    Lora''sughter resonated around the conference room, making the employees stare at her as though she had grown an extra head.


    Was she pretending to have lost her mind to avoid the repercussions of her actions? They couldn''t help but wonder.


    Ryan frowned and asked again, "Miss Davis?"


    The room fell silent as they waited for Lora''s response, still confused by her reaction. Why would sheugh happily in such a dire situation?


    Lora calmly stepped forward, her eyes gleaming with confidence. She smiled at everyone and said, "Miss Williams presented her design and now it''s my turn. This was apetition and I have a right to present my design too before y''all jump to conclusions." She gestured to Hannah, who went to the front of the room to help Lora disy her work. Once the work was revealed, gasps echoed around the room.


    Their eyes grew and almost pop, out of their sockets as


    out of their sockets as they stared at Lora''s design.


    The design was so beautiful that it left everything''s mouth gaping in shock.


    At the same time, Ryan stood up, pushing his chair back with a screech. "This is..."


    He was lost for words.


    Lora''s detailed design disyed on the whiteboard was unlike anything he had ever seen before. Just looking at it would make one''s eyes fill up with tears. Ryan could tell how sentimental the design was and if this was released, it would dominate the market by its ability to capture someone''s attention.


    It couldn''t be helped, Ryan was impressed. He didn''t know Lora was so talented and he loved this design of hers. It waspletely original and daring.... Taking a seat, he stroked his chin as he studied the details of Lora''s design. "Wow! So beautiful!'' He


    mused.


    Silence fell over the room as everyone took in the masterpiece.


    It was a design that could ry one''s feelings to another- a design that spoke volumes. It could evoke one''s memory andfort.


    At the same time, Ivy''s heart jumped to her throat when she saw Lora''s work. She was caught off guard when thetter presented a different design. "I didn''t know she had a n B,'' she thought in her mind and clenched her hands into fists.


    Seeing everyone so stunned that they couldn''t speak, Lora smirked. Her voice cut through the silence. Miss Williams, as you can see, this is my work. I didn''t need to copy anyone, let alone you


    H


    "Miss Davis, how did you steal my design? I''ve been saying that for thepany''s uingunch narty. I know you''re desperate but you didn''t have to go this far," Ivy said after finding her words. Chapter 26- The real thirt


    When everyone heard that, they came back to their senses. That''s right. How could Lora create such an amazing design? The only thing that made sense was that she stole one of Ivy''s designs that she kept for the future.


    Lora let out a dark chuckle. She pped her hands and uttered, "Wow! Miss Williams, you''re really good at acting. However, the truth will speak for itself."


    Hannah set up the projector and pulled up the surveince from Lora''s office. She announced, "Last time, we were not careful enough and allowed a rat to enter Miss Davis'' office undetected. But now, the cameras we set in secret couldn''t be wiped off by anyone." She was indirectly saying Ryan''s surveince had been tampered with. No wonder they couldn''t find any evidence of the giarism case. The cameras were conveniently not working at that time.


    Ryan narrowed his eyes while Ivy panicked. She stammered, "W-What surveince are you talking about? Did you install secret cameras in thepany to spy on Ryan?"


    Lora ignored Ivy''s ims and said, "I don''t like exining myself without any evidence to prove myself. Now look closely and see who the real thief is."


    Hannah yed the footage and everyone could see how Ivy sneaked into Lora''s office and stole her designs by capturing images of it.


    The room fell silent aga


    front of him.


    ot knowing what to say. Ivy was Ryan''s fiancee so they couldn''t mock her in


    However, those who worked for Lora didn''t hold back


    "Wow! I thought Miss Williams was a renowned designer! Who knew she would steal someone''s work and use the owner of stealing her own work?! What a shame!" Hannah added, "Miss Williams, what do you have to say for yourself? It''s clear to everyone that you''re the


    real thief here."


    Ivy could feel her heart pounding so hard in her chest. She said, "Miss Davis, how could you think of framing me like this? This footage is clearly doctored. Why would I want to steal your work when I''m a famous designer? You''re just jealous that you''re struggling to reach my level. If you admit your mistake, I''ll talk to Ryan to forget this incident."


    Ivy''s supporters hesitated, not knowing who to believe.


    Lora had the evidence that Ivy sneaked into her office to steal her work while Ivy imed Lora stole all her works and used her reputation as a famous designer to im her innocence.


    Ryan looked at Lora and asked, "So, you created another design to trap Ivy?"


    "Of course. How else would I prove that I didn''t steal anyone''s work?" Lora admitted.


    "Ryan, don''t listen to her! She''s framing me!" Ivy yelled.


    Suddenly, one of the judges, Eloise Calman, decided to speak. She had been studying Lora''s design for


    some time.


    "Excuse me, Miss Davis. I can''t help but notice that your work is simr to the work of the world-famous designer, Miss L. She also uses her designs to tell apelling story. Are you Miss L, perhaps?" Chapter 26- The real thiContent from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Gasps of shock resonated around the room

 Chapter 27~ Loras secret

    Chapter 27- Lana''s secret


    Chapter 27- Lora''s secret


    "Miss L? The mysterious world-renowned designer?" Ryan furrowed his eyebrows and asked, his voice barely hiding his disbelief.


    The tension in the room was so thick that one could cut through it with a knife. Everyone''s eyes were fixed on Lora, awaiting her response.


    At the same time, Lora was calm, her face devoid of any emotions. No one could tell what she was thinking


    Seeing Ryan nce at Lora with so much interest in his eyes, Ivy gritted her teeth and clutched the arms of her wheelchair tightly, her heart racing. Something told her she wouldn''t like the oue of this meeting.


    am


    Sure enough, Lora took in a deep breath and finally admitted, "Yes. I am Miss L."


    Gasps, followed by whispers erupted in the room among the employees. Others had dropped their jaws to the floor and their eyes widened in shock.


    Who knew that the woman they had used of giarising was the mysterious world-famous designer whose work had take he fashion world by storm?


    "What?" Ryan stared at Lora incredulously. Lora is Miss L? What other secret was this woman hiding?


    Ivy''s face turned pale at the revtion. ''How could this bitch be Miss L? I''ve been trying to contact Miss L so that she could be my mentor. How could it be this bitch?


    Meanwhile, Eloise smiled and looked at Lora. She said, "Miss Davis-or should I say, Miss L, I recognised your work because your design has your signature style. There''s no other designer who''s able to tell a story using their designs... that feat is impossible to copy." Hannah grinned from ear to ear, feeling proud of her boss. She remarked, "Of course, Miss Davis is the best when ites to jewelry design. It''sughable that some people thought she could copy their work."


    Hearing that, everyone finally came to terms with what had just been revealed. Lora Davis was Miss L, the talented genius designer. Why would she copy Ivy''s work?


    "Wow, so Miss Davis was the legendary designer? ver knew she could be so young," someonemented.


    "Miss L, you''re a genius! You''ve only studied design for a few years and became so good! You''re my role model!"


    "Miss Davis, we are so sorry we doubted you. Your work is exceptional!"


    "I''m so honoured to work with you, Miss L."


    A smile crossed Lora''s lips. She said, "Thank you, everyone, but this is not how I wanted to reveal my identity. However, my reputation as a designer was on the line, I couldn''t let anyone steal my work and tarnish my image."


    Lora recalled how she worked harder than everyone else. Despite reuniting with her rich parents, she still tried her best to be sessful. It wasn''t easy but her children gave her the strength to go on. She wanted to be someone they could be proud of.


    This was why she couldn''t let Ivy get away with her schemes. Her work was a part of her and no one could take it away from her,


    Looking at Ryan, she asked, "What''s your take on this matter, Mr Kingsley?


    Lora knew how much Ryan loved Ivy. He could tolerate whatever she did, so she knew Ivy would be left to go scot-free even though she giarised someone''s work.


    She scoffed internally and thought, "Why did I even ask him? I''m sure he will cover up for the love of his


    life''


    Ryan narrowed his eyes. He finally believed that Lora didn''t giarise Ivy''s work but it was the other way


    round.


    "Ryan, are you going to believe this woman? She must be pretending to be Miss L! No one has ever seen Miss L. She''s never introduced herself to the public. Miss Davis is an imposter!" Ivy quickly said before Ryan could reply. "Ivy, enough..."


    "Ryan, think this through. Why would Miss L get into a partnership with you? If she was really Miss L, she would have just used he putation to calm the board members at Davis & Co. We need to report this imposter-"


    "I said enough!" Ryan yelled and banged his hand on the table, his eyes cold as he nced at Ivy. "Haven''t you done enough?"


    Ivy was taken aback by us


    taken aback by Ryan''s outburst. This was the first time he was being cold to her.


    "Miss Williams wants me to prove that I''m Miss L," Lora said and nced at her assistant. "It''s only right


    that I do so."


    Hannah smiled and yed a video on the projector. She presented, "Miss Davis once won a contest held by the world''s biggest jewelrypany as Miss L. In this video, you can see her going to the stage to collect her award," Everyone watched the video and they recalled Miss L had won an international award a few months ago. Since her identity was a secret, no videos of her were released at that time.


    "It can''t be..." Ivy shook her head in denial.


    Ryan got to his feet, the air around him turning cold. He announced, "The winner of this contest is Miss Davis."Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    "Ryan, I-"


    "Everyone is dismissed," Ryan stated, ignoring Ivy. He left the office and everyone dispersed and went back to work.


    Lora sneered internally. As expected, Ryan didn''t do anything to Ivy even though he found out she was lying


    "Miss Davis, are you just going to let Miss Williams go? She stole your work and almost ruined your name," Hannah Collins remarked.


    Chapter 27-1md


    "It''s ok... someone like her will get her retribution sooner orter, Lora replied and went to her office.


    A few minutester, Lora was packing up her files in a box when Ryan entered her office.


    "What are you doing? You''re leaving?" He asked, his brows creasing


    "Our partnership is over as of today." Lora replied coldly


    "What? Why?" Ryan asked in disbelief. "The contract is not over yet."


    "Are you really asking me that? Your fiancee stole my work and tried to ruin me. You breached the contract first, so I have no obligation to cooperate with you," Lora remarked icily.


    Ryan saw that Lora was angry. He softened his voice and said, "I''m sorry, Miss Davis. Please don''t end the partnership, I still need you. Ivy''s actions caused the stock price to drop." Lora picked up her box and looked at Ryan, saying. "That''s none of my business. I''vepleted my work and now, our cooperation has

 Chapter 28~ Missed calls

    Chapter 28- Missed calls


    The next day, the tables had turned and the inte was buzzing with headlines about one Miss L


    [Highly talented world-famous designer, Miss L''s identity revealed!]


    [Lora Davis exposed as Miss L. Her designs do the talking.]


    The inte pages were going wild withments as almost everyone had something to say about this scandal.


    "Oh my God! Lora Davis is Miss L? She''s my idoll"


    "No wonder she was so calm. She was the real deal. What the hell was Ivy Williams thinking?"


    "Miss L, we are so sorry for insulting you! You''re the best!"


    Meanwhile, Ivy Williams was now a subject of ridicule as the scandal blew out of proportion. The headlines about her were not friendly.


    [Ivy Williams: The giari


    [Ivy Williams lost her touch.]


    Those who once loved and supported Ivy were disappointed in her. They now questioned her integrity and turned thement section on the social media pages into a battlefield of mockingments.


    "Ivy Williams should be banned! She''s a thief!"


    "Ivy Wiims can''t design anymore. She had to resort to stealing Miss L''s work to stay relevant in the Industry. Shame."


    "Ivy Williams is finished! No wonder she hasn''t been able to design anything in thest six years. All she could do is giarise to save face."


    The scandal kept spreading like a forest wildfire as posts of Ivy''s giarism went viral. Netizens kept sharing memes with #lvythegiariser, causing Ivy to trend negatively while Lora received praises for being a legendary genius designer. Meanwhile, Lora was at home when her parents called to congratte her. They were on a video call.


    Jack Davis smiled at his daughter and said, "You did it, Lora! Ourpany''s stock price has skyrocketed. You''ve proven your ability to the board members and they have nothing to say but praise your work."


    "It''s all because of your guidance, Dad. I wouldn''t have be so good if you didn''t mentor me. My parents are amazing designers, of course, I would end up being great too," Lora replied on the phone. "Oh Lora... We are so proud of you. Now the board members won''t trouble you... it may be temporary peace but they won''t disturb you for a while. You can work in peace now," Freya Davis remarked, her eyes beaming through the phone screen.


    "Thank you, Mom. I could do it because you believed in me," Lora said, her eyes glinting with happiness.


    "Is that Grandpa and Grandma?" E''s sweet voice came from behind Lora.


    Lora looked back and answered her daughter. "Yes, E. Come and say hi." She looked at Ethan and


    Chapter 211- Masted calls


    added, "You too, Ethan."


    The twins rushed to climb on the two-seat couch and sat on either side of their mother before looking at


    the phone screen.Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    "Hello, Grandpa and Grandma!" E and Ethan eximed at the same time.


    "Hello E, Hello Ethan! Be good and don''t trouble your mother," Jack said enthusiastically. He loved seeing his grandchildren very much.


    "Don''t worry, Grandpa. We will make mommy happy," Ethan replied and the adults smiled happily.


    After the video call ended, Lora was about to put her phone away when Ryan''s call came in. However, she frowned and cut the call before getting up, "Do you want Mommy to make you dessert?"


    "Yes!" The twins agreed and followed her into the kitchen before settling at the kitchen counter.


    While Lora was making dessert, E asked innocently. "Mommy, are you going to continue working with the handsome uncle? I want to meet him."


    Lora''s heart skipped a beat when she heard that. The twins had never seen Ryan before. How did know who she worked with?


    they


    However, she recalled how the news was all over and figured the twins must have stumbled upon the


    news


    Lora turned to look at her daughter and shook her head, saying, "No, sweetie. My partnership with the Kingsley group is over... that was my first andst project."


    I E''s little eyebrows creased. She asked, "But why? Did you fight? Can''t you just call him? I like him."


    Lora''s heart skipped a beat again. She was sure her kids were too young to know that Ryan was their father even though he looked like Ethan.


    She chuckled and moved closer to stroke E''s hair. "Mr Kingsley has a fianc¨¦e, E. I can''t call him for no reason and we were just working together."


    E slumped her shoulders. She pouted and said, "Too bad... I really wanted to meet


    him."


    Lora sighed, wondering why E suddenly talked about Ryan. Could she have a connection with him? She was about to turn away when her phone rang again. When she saw that it was Ryan, she frowned and cut the call for the umpteenth time. Ethan who had been quiet during E and Lora''s conversation frowned when he saw Lora cut the call. He had noticed that Ryan had been calling his mother non-stop and Lora kept cutting the call, giving the man several missed calls.


    Lora''s phone rang again and when she cut it, Ethan finally spoke up. "Mommy, why aren''t you answering your phone? It''s been ringing for eternity."


    Lora paused at her son''s words. She looked at him and replied. "Mommy doesn''t want to get disturbed, Ethan."


    Nowork avable now. Please check yourwork.


    Ethan frowned, his gaze too serious for a five-year-old boy. ''Mommy must be angry at Daddy because he has a fiancee."

 Chapter 29~ An explosion

    Chapter 29- An explosion


    Lora arrived at the Davis & Co. JJewelry Company, ready to forge ahead and grow thepany that her dear father entrusted to her. She had just stepped out of her car when a familiar voice called out to her. Lora...


    Lora turned around and found Ryan looking at her with a wistful look on his face. She frowned and ced her car keys in her branded handbag.


    That morning, she wore a short white skirt and a statement-making jacket which wereplemented by white pointed stiletto shoes. Her hair was pulled up into a neat ponytail and it entuated her beautiful facial features "Mr Kingsley, what are you doing at mypany this early morning?" She asked.


    I''ve been calling you several times but my calls went unanswered. Lora... I mean, Miss Davis, let''s talk," Ryan remarked.


    "There''s nothing to talk about, Mr Kingsley. I thought I made it clearst time: Our partnership is over," Lora replied coldly. She was determined to cut Ryanpletely out of her life.


    Thest few days hau proved just how deadly getting involved with him was back then and now. She didn''t want history to repeat itself.


    Ryan got closer, ignoring Lora''s coldness towards himself. He said, "You only decided on your own, Miss Davis. I didn''t agree to end our cooperation."


    Lora furrowed her eyebrows. She replied, "I don''t need to ask for your permission and after what happened, I want nothing to do with you or yourpany. Can you please stop harassing me?"Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    Ryan''s jaw tightened. He remarked, "Our cooperation hasn''t ended. You onlypleted the design draft and without the final product, we can''t put it out on the market."


    "But that''s not my problem, is it?" Lora questioned, her brows furrowing in irritation.


    "It is part of your problem.... You see, Miss Davis, as the designer, you need to be present to ensure production is conducted in line with your design and no mistakes are made," Ryan exined, his gray eyes staring into Lora''s hazel eyes.


    Lora sighed. She asked, "What are you up to, Mr Kingsley? I''ve already fulfilled my part of the deal and created not one, but three designs for yourpany. Lended the cooperation because I want to and I''m not changing my mind."


    She turned around and was about to walk away but Ryan grabbed her hand.


    "Wait.."


    Sparks flew and tingles shot up Ryan''s arm when he grabbed Lora''s hand. He raised his eyes sharply and nced at Lora... her hand was just as warm and soft as Larisa''s. His heart began to race like a galloping horse as aplicated feeling crept into him. Lora quickly pulled her hand out of Ryan''s hand like it was made out of hot coal. She said sternly, "Please


    refrain from touching me next time, Mr Kingsley. We are not that close," " Chapter 29- An explosion.


    Ryan furrowed his eyebrows as his mind reeled with confusion. He shook his head and brushed his thoughts and feelings away before saying, "Look... we already started this. I need you toe with me to the warehouse to check the raw materials... you indicated that special stones are to be used for your designs, so I need you to check the quality... don''t you want the jewelry made from your designs to be a hit on the market?"


    Lora''s resolve wavered. Her designs were important to her, so she needed to ensure the quality wouldn''t bepromised in any way. Moreover, Ryan didn''t know who she was and she couldn''t avoid him forever.


    She nced at Ryan and relented, "Fine. Let''s go to the warehouse."


    When she agreed, a small barely-there smile crossed Ryan''s lips.


    It didn''t take long for them to arrive at the warehouse. Ryan led Lora into one of the warehouses where they kept the raw materials for the jewelrypany.


    "Go ahead and check the materials," Ryan said, walking beside Lora as she examined the various precious stones in the warehouse.


    Suddenly, an explosion went in the nearby distance and Lora suddenly screamed and crouched down, covering her ears with her hands...


    Ryan frowned. "Lora, are you ok? It seems there''s an explosion at a nearby mmable warehouse-* Another explosion went off, shaking the ground beneath them and Lora screamed again, fear evident in her eyes. She began to shiver and breathe heavily, her heart pounding so hard she could hear it in her ears. Ryan crouched down and pulled her into his arms. He held her close and said, "Hey... I''m here, don''t be afraid. Nothing will happen to you."


    Lora trembled in Ryan''s arms and clutched his shirt for dear life as more explosions went off in the distance. She was so frightened and her reaction left Ryan helpless.


    "Lora..." Ryan softened his voice. He held the back of Lora''s head and buried her face in his chest. "You''re safe with me. Please calm down."


    They stayed like that for a while until the explosions stopped. Only then did Lorae back to her senses.


    When she realised she was in Ryan''s arms, she quickly pushed Ryan away and got to her feel, avoiding his gaze. She awkwardly remarked, "Um... thank you."


    Without waiting for a response, she turned around and walked out of the warehouse with quick steps as if she was being chased by someone.


    Ryan frowned and nced at Lora''s back as she walked away... the way it felt to hold her in his arms... the way she shivered after hearing the explosions. He recalled the fear and helplessness in her eyes... it looked like she had experienced something like this before. ''Why did she react like that? Is she afraid of explosions? Why? He squinted his eyes as a seed of suspicion crept into his heart, his hands balling into fists.


    ''Lora Davis, are you really not Larisa?"

 Chapter 30- The truth is out

    ?


    Chapter 30~ The truth is out


    "Miss Davis, how could you ditch me after using me?" Ryan asked Lora when he followed her outside.


    She was waiting beside his car, trying to recover from her panic attack.


    When she heard Ryan''s question, she blushed. She crossed her arms and said, "I didn''t use you-"


    "Are you sure?" Ryan arched an eyebrow and stepped closer. He ced one hand on the car as he stared down at Lora, a side smirk crossing his lips. "Who was trembling in my arms just now?"


    "You-"Lora''s face was as red as a tomato. The moment when she clutched Ryan''s shirt tightly yed in her mind and she had the urge to p herself. "I didn''t ask you for help."


    "Ungrateful, aren''t we?" Ryan let out a low chuckle. "I helped you because you looked like you were about to copse. Shouldn''t you thank me?"


    "I already thanked you, Mr Kingsley," Lora said with an exasperated sigh.


    "Um... you did. But you ran away from me like I''m a disease," Ryan remarked.


    "That''s because there was no need to continue being in the warehouse. I''m done checking the materials," Lora replied.


    Ryan arched an eyebrow again. "So, you only need me when you''re scared, huh? I''ll keep that in mind."


    Lora furrowed her eyebrows as she watched Ryan walk to the driver''s seat with a smirk on his lips. What was he ying at?


    Feeling confused, Lora got into the car and Ryan drove her to her jewelrypany in awkward silence. He said, "I''ll end the cooperation but since you were a part of the project, please attend theunch party which will happen in a few weeks... you can alsoe over to thepany and monitor the project''s progress."


    Lora frowned. However, since she had a sense of responsibility as a professional, she decided to watch over the project once in a while until the final product was on the market.


    She replied, "I''ll check on the project whenever I have some free time."


    When Ryan dropped Lora off at Davis & Co., he immediately called his friend, Adan Nicholson.


    "Hey bro, how far with the investigation? Have you found anything?" He asked as soon as Adan picked up.


    "Hello to you too," Adan remarked. He sighed and replied, "I haven''t found anything that can link Lora to Larisa so far."Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!


    Ryan''s heart sank... he was hoping to get some news soon. The uncertainty behind Lora''s identity was driving him crazy.


    "But there''s something strange," Adan said and Ryan''s heart skipped a beat.


    "What is it?" He asked, his heart racing rapidly in his chest.


    "After the Davis family found Lora six years ago, I hear she had been hospitalised for quite some time," Adan reported.


    ''She was hospitalised? Why? Was she in an ident?'' Ryan thought in his mind.


    "Did you learn anything about that? What was wrong with her?" Ryan asked.


    "That''s the thing... the hospital has no proper records of her stay in the hospital. It''s either they lost them or purposely got rid of them," Adan said on the phone. "My P.I is still trying to find the full details."


    Ryan''s eyebrows furrowed and suspicion crept into him. Something was definitely fishy. Why would someone erase hospital records unless they were trying to hide something?


    A thought urred to him and his heart raced, "Lora has a birthmark that''s identical to Larisa''s. I need you to find out if it''s just a coincidence."


    After the call, Ryan''s phone rang again. It was his grandfather calling and thinking he was calling to ask about the progress of the project after the scandal, he quickly answered.


    "Grandpa-"


    "Ryan, are you trying to destroy thepany?!" Charles Kingsley yelled on the phone.


    Ryan frowned in confusion. He asked, "What''s wrong, Grandpa?"


    "Are you asking me what''s wrong? It was just a few days ago when you were in a scandal and now, you''re trending again! The stock price keeps dropping!"


    Ryan''s heart dropped. He had no idea he was trending in the news again.


    "Ryan, I let you take over thepany instead of your father because you were more responsible! I won''t forgive you if anything happens to thepany because you can''t put your life in order!" Charles scolded on the phone.


    Ryan''s hand tightened around the steering wheel. He gritted his teeth and replied, "I''ll handle it, Grandpa."


    "You better! Let Larisa rest in peace, you already failed her when she was alive!" Charles said and hang up, his words sending a sharp pang of pain through Ryan''s heart.


    Was the trending news about Larisa?


    He quickly checked his phone, and sure enough, the news was rted to Larisa. Even though they hadn''t disclosed her name, it was now a known fact that Ryan was once in a secret marriage six years ago.


    The truth was out. It was revealed that Ryan''s hidden marriage ended due to interference from his mistress who happened to be none other than Ivy Williams.


    Since the gossip was about Ryan Kingsley and Ivy Williams, everyone was interested in the news and kept sharing and reposting the story.


    Ryan narrowed his eyes at the phone screen as he read thements.


    "What''s the identity of Ryan''s mysterious ex-wife? Is she from a wealthy family?"


    "She must have been poor, that''s why he divorced her. So heartless!"


    "Poordy.... Who knew Ivy Williams was a homewrecker? She destroyed someone''s marriage."


    "But I heard Ivy Williams and Ryan Kingsley were childhood sweethearts. Doesn''t that mean it was Ryan''s ex-wife who came between them? She was the homewrecker!"


    Ryan clenched his jaw.


    Who could have revealed this news? Ryan could only think of one person. His blood boiled in anger as he dialled a number and stepped on the gas.

 Chapter 31~ The confrontation

    Chapter 31-The confrontation


    "Lawrence, take down the trending news right now," Ryan ordered his assistant on the phone.


    He cut the call and drove to the Williams'' mansion. Although he had ordered the removal of the news, the damage had already been done. Anger that he could barely contain rushed through him.


    His heart clenched painfully, an ache that had be all too familiar every time he thought about his past. That night... he saw the warehouse explode before his eyes, enveloping Larisa and drowning her in a sea of fire. There was nothing left....


    No body, no bones. all that was left of his beloved wife were her ashes.


    She must have died resenting him, thinking he had abandoned her...


    Ryan blinked and a lone tear rolled down his cheek before he quickly wiped it away. Heughed at himself self-deprecatingly. He didn''t deserve to cry for her... not after he failed her. protect her


    However, he wouldn''t let anyone drag her name through the mud. The least he could do was p


    memory.


    As he drove up the drivewa ding to Ivy''s home, Ryan sighed internally. Had Ivy always been this type of person or had he been too blind to see the real her? Since when was she this scheming woman?


    He didn''t want to see her so soon after finding out that she had copied Lora''s work and tried to frame her. However, he needed to find out if she leaked the news about his past.


    On the other hand, when Ivy saw Ryan, her eyes gleamed with happiness. She hadn''t been to work the past few days due to the scandal and she hadn''t heard from Ryan. He also wasn''t picking up her calls, so seeing hime to see her made her very happy. "Ryan..." She called out in a soft voice. "I thought you would never want to see me again. I missed you."


    Ryan looked down at lvy, his face emotionless. Even though he noticed the dark circles under Ivy''s eyes, he didn''t waste time and immediately questioned, "Are you the one who leaked the news of my past to the media? You know very well that I didn''t divorce my wife and neither did I cheat on her."


    Ivy''s smile was wiped off her face.


    His wife....Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    She hated being reminded that Ryan had married someone else after she left the Country. She wanted to be the only one who owned his heart.


    Ivy looked pitiful as she looked up at Ryan with watery eyes, saying desperately, "Ryan, do you do something like that? I didn''t leak the news, you have to believe me!"


    think I can


    "Believe you?" Ryan said coldly. "After everything you did, you still want me to believe you?"


    To say he was disappointed would be an understatement. Intense anger was burning within him. Ivy had crossed the line this time... her actions almost cost him the one thing that he wanted to keep as a memento of histe wife.


    A sh of panic flickered through Ivy''s eyes when she noticed how angry Ryan was


    "Ryan, my love you have to believe me. I would never betray you like that. What do I get from exposing our past to the public? I wouldn''t want to bebelled a mistress. This isn''t my fault, Ryan," Ivy pleaded nervously, hoping to get through to Ryan She didn''t want him to give up on her, already, she could feel him getting distant. He was slowly beginning


    to slip away


    Ryan''s expression was unreadable as he nced at Ivy. He recalled how Ivy stole Lora''s work, not once. but twice and how she mocked Lora for being a thief knowing fully well that she was the culprit.


    He scoffed and uttered. 1 once believed you, try. I trusted you but you made a fool of me! You giarised Lora''s work and lied about it! I can never trust anything you say again. Do you know how much money the Kingsley group lost because of your schemes? Ivy''s heart sank. Was she losing Ryan? Did she dig her own grave by stealing Lora''s work?


    No! She didn''t do anything wrong! What''s wrong in trying to protect what was hers? She just wanted to get nd of Lora and now she''s gone!


    Jry blinked and big fat tears rolled down her cheeks. She wheeled herself closer to Ryan, reaching for his


    hand but Ryan avoided her and stepped back.


    Looking up at him, Ivy''s lips quivered as she said, "Ryan, I did all this for you. It was my own way of protecting you and making you proud as your woman."


    Ryan couldn''t believe his ears. He questioned, "Are you saying you stole Lora''s design for me? Does that even make sense to you? She was working with me, why would you need to steal it?"


    Ivy sniffed back her tears and replied, "Ryan, you know how I''ve been struggling to create any designs in thest six years. Although no one talks about it, I know they secretlyugh at you for still being with me even though I lost my skills."


    She paused and wiped a lone tear that rolled down her cheek and continued, "I was forced to steal Lora''s design because I was afraid, Ryan. If people think your fiancee is so useless that she can''t even design anymore, yourpany and reputation will be affected. I''m sorry. I just panicked and didn''t think of the consequences. I just wanted to show them that I was someone worthy of you."


    Ryan coiled his hands into fists, trying to calm his temper down. "Why in the world would you think stealing would help me, Ivy? You just ruined everything! My partnership, my stocks! Goddammit!"


    "I just wanted to prove that I''m the right person for you! I don''t care about fame as long as I can help you, Ryan. Losing the ability to use my legs already made me useless, I didn''t want anyone to find out I had lost my talent as well," Ivy''s voice broke.


    At the mention of her legs, Ryan stilled. He recalled how he was responsible for lvy''s predicament and his heart softened. However, he couldn''t just forget about her lies and maniption.


    Ryan ran a hand through his hair in frustration and sighed. He stared at Ivy and remarked in a softer but firm voice, "You should take some time to rest at home and reflect on your actions."


    "Ryan, please I-" Ivy began but Ryan had already turned and walked out without sparing her another nce.


    Chapter 31- The confer


    Ivy dug her nails into her palms, her teeth grinding in anger. This was all Lora''s fault! She was the reason Ryan was suddenly so cold and distant!


    A cold and calcting look shed through Ivy''s eyes as she picked up her phone and made a call.


    Natie Author


    Thank you for reading. I only managed one chapter today. I''ll try to add another one after a few hours.

 Chapter 32~ The best

    Chapter 32- The best


    It was the weekend and Lora had just finished reviewing some reports in her study when her phone buzzed. She nced at the screen and a smile crossed her lips when she saw Jason''s name "Hello, Jay. Lora answered.


    "Hi Lora or should I say Miss L now since the cat is out of the bag?" Jason teased on the phone. "You keep being in the limelight and now, there''s no day that goes by without the media houses talking about the highly talented designer, Miss L. Perhaps I should be good to you in case meeting you bes so hard in the future. You''re more popr than idol stars how."


    "Oh, stop it, Jason, Lora said but her voice was light with mirth. "You''re exaggerating! I can''t be more popr than idol stars."


    "Are you sure?" Jason remarked. I''m afraid you''re going to need security soon because a lot of your fans will be flocking to you for autographs. With that said... can I be the first in line? Can I have the honour of


    viting the talented designer to lunch today? I''ll get your autograph while we''re at it."


    Loraughed heartily. Her lips were so wide that they hurt. She replied, "Well, it''s a weekend arid so yeah! Let''s go and have lunch."


    I''m free.


    "Great the twins can join us if that''s ok with you. I would like to see them, it''s been a while," Jason offered.


    Lora frowned and asked, "Is tha, ok? My kids can be a handful."Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    "Don''t worry, I''m good with kids and I''ll take care of them like they are my own," Jason promised.


    "No problem then. I''ll get them ready," Lora agreed. "I''m sure they will be thrilled."


    A little whileter, Jason and Lora took the kids to a family-friendly restaurant. The ce had a children''s y area where the children could y as they waited for the food. Since I was a weekend, the ce was filled up with different families who were eating and chatting, having some bonding time with each other.


    Jason smiled at the kids as they went through the menu and asked, "Ethan, E, what would you like to do after lunch? Would you like me to take you to the theme park?"


    E''s eyes lit up. She nodded quickly, "Yes, Uncle Jason. I would like to go and y."


    On the other hand, Ethan wasn''t that keen on ying like a normal kid. He would much rather y games on his tablet. However, since his sister had shown interest, he had no option but to agree too.


    When both kids agreed, Jason grinned and said, "We are going to have fun, I promise!"


    Lora smiled at their interaction and warmth spread through her heart. The kids seemed to like Jason and she liked him too, he was so kind, gentle and funny. "He would make a good father,'' she thought in her mind


    The four of them quickly had their lunch and Jason drove them to the theme pack. They looked like a family as Jason and Lora took the kids to y on the slides, they rode the roller coasters together and yed on the waterslides. O


    E had a great time and she even had her face painted Jason offered to paint his face too so that they could match


    "Who wants ice cream? Jason asked when they got tired of ying


    "Me! I want ice cream E eximed. "Ethan wants ice cream too. He''s just too shy to say "


    "I''m not shy," Ethan frowned


    Jason chuckled and suggested, "Let''s go and get ice cream."


    When the adults were buying the ice cream, Ethan and E stood behind Lora and Jason where they discussed about Jason


    E nced at Jason before asking her brother, "Ethan, do you think Uncle Jason will marry our Mommy?" Ethan furrowed his eyebrows. He replied, "I don''t know. That depends on whether Mommy likes him or


    not


    "But


    Mommy belongs to Daddy," E protested. "I like Uncle Jason... he treats us like family and takes care of us. But I still think Daddy is the best. I want to meet him."


    Ethan nodded and said, "I want to meet him too, but it''s not the right time. Mommy will get upset if we meet him. She''s angry with him. "


    "Why? Is Daddy a bad person?


    asked, looking at her brother with curiosity in her eyes.


    Ethan sighed heavily like an adult. He stated, "Mommy has never talked about him. We will find out when we meet him." "What are you two rascals whispering about?" Lora''s voice alerted the twins and they immediately stopped talking.


    "We were talking about how this ce is so nice, Mommy. I love it! We''ve had so much fun!" Ethan quickly responded. Lora smiled and gave them the ice cream. She remarked, "You should thank Uncle Jason for bringing you here" "Thank you, Uncle Jason!" The twins said in unison.


    "Don''t mention it. This is just the bare minimum... when you feel likeing to the theme park, just let me know, ok?" Jason offered and the twins nodded.


    "I think we need to head back now, it''s getting dark," Lora suggested. She nced at Jason and said, "1 had a great time, Jay. Thank you... eded this outing after all the chaos." "It''s my pleasure," Jason smiled. "Let me send you back."


    As they made their way to the parking lot, Lora suddenly felt an eerie chill run down her spine. She whipped her head around sharply but couldn''t see anyone and everything looked normal Had she imagined it?


    "Lora, are you ok?" Jason''s voice brought Lora back to the present. She shook the feeling off and turned to nce at Jason.


    "I''m fine," she replied, the feeling of being watched still lingering in her mind.


    Natie Au

 Chapter 33~ Marrying Ivy

    Chapter 33- Marrying Ivy


    Ivy''s hands trembled when she looked at the photos in her hands.


    Anger and hatred shed through her eyes as she yelled, "No! No... it can''t bel"


    Her eyes were wide with shock as she went through the pictures. After realising she was losing Ryan to Lora, Ivy hired someone to follow Lora so that she could find out something she could use against her. However, what she received shocked her to the core when she saw photos of Lora with two children by her side.


    "Lora has kids?" She whispered to herself.


    Gulping air, she went through the photos again and studied the kids'' faces. The little girl resembled Lora, however, it was the little boy''s face that made Ivy''s heart sink. He looked so much like Ryan Kingsley. "What''s going on? How could Lora''s child look like Ryan? Unless..."


    "No! No, it must just be a coincidence!" Ivy squashed her thoughts immediately. She didn''t want to think of the possibility. However, she couldn''t deny it.... the evidence was right in herface. Both these kids had an uncanny resemnce to Lorr 1 Ryan. Could they be....? A cold sweat broke out on Ivy''s forehead as a thought urred to her. Lora looked like Larisa and she also had a son who looked like Ryan.


    Could Larisa be alive?


    "How is that possible? She died in that explosion!"


    Ivy''s stomach churned and her heart raced as a lightbulb went off in her head. What if Lora was Larisa? It would mean these children belonged to Ryan and if he found out....


    "They can''t be Ryan''s! I made sure that bitch died six years ago!" Ivy hissed, her eyes flickering with hatred. If Lora was Larisa, then everything she had done all this while to have Ryan would all be for nothing.


    The man was slowly bing distant from her... if what she discovered turned out to be true, then she would lose Ryan forever.


    "I can''t let that happen! I need to find out more and if she''s really Larisa, I''ll get rid of her the same way I did six years ago!" Ivy dered to herself.


    Ivy took her phone and called her private investigator, need you to investigate the woman in the photo and her kids. Find out everything about her, including who the father of those bastards is." Meanwhile, Ryan went back to the Kingsley mansion and had dinner with his family.


    "Have you dealt with the scandal well? I want everyone who spoke badly about myte granddaughter-inw to get sued," Charles remarked when they settled in the grand living room after dinner. "Lawrence is working on that, Grandpa. Don''t worry, I won''t be involved in any more scandals that might injure thepany," Ryan replied.


    Chapter 33- Marving


    Charles nodded, "Good. You''re efficient as always. No wonder you''re my sessor.


    Dead silence fell over the room after Charles said that. However, the old man didn''t care, he was disappointed in his son who had no skill for business.T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    After a few seconds of silence, Celeste Kingsley, Ryan''s stepmother, said, "Ryan, people will always talk but if you had married Ivy earlier, this wouldn''t have happened."


    Celeste Kingsley married Ryan''s father just a few months after his wife died. She had blonde hair with brown eyes that matched her daughter''s. In the living room, she was seated next to her husband, Miles Kingsley. He had dark hair with streaks of gray and he looked like Ryan and a younger version of Charles.


    Ryan didn''t respond to Celeste but she didn''t get offended. She traced the rim of her teacup with her fingers as she said, 1 wonder why you keep dying the wedding, Ryan. Ivy has been so loyal to you. If you had done the right thing and made her your legal wife, the press wouldn''t have had a chance to write articles about the two of you. It''s been six years already since Larisa died, why aren''t you marrying Ivy?"


    The air in the room turned frosty at Celeste''s words. Ryan clenched his hands into fists and red at the woman before saying. "Mind your own business, Celeste "


    "Ryan, mind how you speak to my wife! She is your mother!" Miles scolded his son.


    Anger red through Ryan. His eyesnded on his father as he replied, "She''s no mother of mine. My mother is dead... and if you want me to respect her, then tell her to stay out of my business."


    "You-" Miles Kingsley''s face was red from anger. Why was it so hard for him to get along with his son? Ever since he married Celeste, Ryan got closer to Charles and became distant from Miles.


    Celeste grabbed Miles'' hand and remarked, "Darling, don''t get worked up. Ryan didn''t mean to.... he''s just angry with everything that''s going on. The stock price dropped due to the scandal, so I''m sure he reacted


    like that out of frustration."


    She looked at Ryan and said, "I''m just trying to help you, Ryan. Ivy has been so good to you and she will make a good wife-"


    "I thought I told you to mind your own business, Celeste or did you not hear me?" Ryan snapped and Celeste flinched in her seat.


    She shared a look with Isabe who was seated on the other side of the room and kept quiet.


    Meanwhile, Charles couldn''t stop grinning when he saw how Ryan reacted to the suggestion of marrying Ivy. He nced at his grandson and said seriously, "Let''s chat in my study. There''s something I want to ask you to do. It''s an emergency." Natie Author

 Chapter 34~ Trouble

    Chapter 34- Trouble


    "Grandpa, what''s going on? What''s the emergency?" Ryan asked worriedly when they got to Charles'' study.


    Charles cleared his throat. He sat back in his chair and said, "Before we get to that... there''s something I want to ask you. As Lora''s work partner, what do you think of her?"


    Ryan frowned, not knowing why his grandfather asked that question. He replied, "Lora''s very talented, Grandpa. Her skills are unlike anything I''ve ever seen before... It''s a pity our partnership ended, she would have been a great asset to our Jewelrypany." Charles studied his grandson, a knowing glint in his eyes. He knew his grandson so well and knew that Ryan was already seeing Lora in a new light, although Ryan himself was unaware of this.


    He smiled and remarked, "Knowing how it''s not easy to impress you, you must have a high opinion of Lora Davis for you to speak so highly of her."


    Ryan shrugged and said, "Well, she''s good at what she does, Grandpa."


    Charles let out a chuckle. He grinned and replied, "What an interestingdy she is, huh? I thought she was just a youngdy who was found by her parentster in her life. Who knew she''s Miss L? I''m a fan of Miss L''s designs!"


    "A fan?" Ryan arched an eyebrow. his grandfather. "Since when are you a fan of jewelry, Grandpa?"


    "You don''t know everything about your old man, Ryan. In my younger days, I used to rock male jewelry and I would make thedies swoon with my handsomeness," Charles remarked seriously.


    Ryan shook his head at his grandfather''s words. He asked, "Can you tell me what the emergency is now, Grandpa?"


    "The emergency is that I want to meet Lora aka Miss L. Please invite her home."


    Ryan, ""


    "Are you for real, Grandpa? I thought something serious happened to thepany," Ryan uttered.


    Charles red at his grandson and remarked, "This is something serious, ver knew Lora was the mysterious Miss L when I met her and didn''t give her the treatment a legend like her deserves. Invite her home, Sonny. I would also like to engage Miss L in a personal project."


    "A personal project?" Ryan eyed his grandfather suspiciously. "And what might that be?"


    "ed to ce an order, Ryan. I may be old but I would still look hot with male jewelry," Charles remarked. "So, when do you think you can bring her home?"


    Ryan furrowed his eyebrows. Lora made it clear that she didn''t want anything to do with him. How could he suddenly invite her home? He shook his head and replied, "Grandpa, I don''t think she will-"


    Charles banged the table with his hand and said, "Don''t give up, Ryan! I told you this is an emergency! I need you to invite Miss L home! My wrists are itching for some bling-bling!" Ryan, "


    "Fine," Ryan relented. After all, his grandfather had just given him a reason to contact Lora.


    Chapter 34- Troube


    Charles hid a smile when Ryan agreed.


    Meanwhile, Lora arrived at work on a Monday morning and went straight to the conference room to attend the emergency meeting that was arranged by the board members.


    The conference room was thick with tension as the board members had a heated argument among


    themselves.


    Lora could hear their voices from the hallway as she approached the room. She frowned and asked Hannah, "What happened?"


    Hannah shrugged and replied, "I have no idea, Ma''am. I was told to call you in for the emergency meeting."


    As Lora was walking into the conference room, she heard her father''s voice echo in the room.


    "Calm down everyone. Lora will handle this-"


    "With all due respect, Mr Davis, your ghter may be the legendary designer, Miss L, but she doesn''t have any managerial skills. How car manage to lead apany when a shipment of goods got lost the moment she took over?" The man who spoke was none other than Lewis Hendrix, the managingContent is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    director of Davis & Co.


    Lewis, a tall young man with brown hair and blue eyes, was the preferred candidate for the CEO position before Jack Davis appointed Lora as his sessor.


    He had been abroad during the handover and recently returned to the City.


    At his words, the other board members agreed with him.


    "That''s true... we can''t dispute that she''s a genius designer. Perhaps the department of design would best suit her scope of work," Craig Hendrix, Lewis'' father, chipped in.


    Lora walked to her seat and everyone nced at her. As soon as she took a seat, one of the board members attacked her with questions.


    "Miss Davis, a shipment carrying precious stones suddenly went missing under your watch, what do you have to say about that? How are you running thispany if goods worth millions of dors can easily get lost without a good exnation?"


    Lora raised her head and said, "Howe I wasn''t informed about the missing shipment and who called for this meeting?"


    "I did," Lewis answered as he nced at Lora. "Before you returned, Miss Davis, I used to run things around here. However, ever since you took over, things in thepany have been chaotic. This is the first time we are losing a shipment and the goods in that container are worth a fortune. I called for this meeting to discuss how we are going to deal with this matter."


    Lora looked at Lewis and questioned, "As the managing director, who do you report to? Is it the board of directors, or me, as your CEO?"


    Lewis clenched his hands into fists at that question. He replied through gritted teeth, "I report to you,


    Miss Davis."


    Chapter 24- Trouve


    "So why did you call for a meeting without informing me of the problem first? I would have solved it by now and there would be no need to trouble the board members," Lora remarked.


    "Are you saying you can find the missing shipment, Miss Davis?" Lewis threw a question at Lora.


    He looked calm on the surface but he was seething inside. ''How dare this foolish woman humiliate me in front of the board members? Who does she think she is?


    Lora nodded confidently and replied, "Of course, I''ll find the missing shipment in two days."


    "And if you don''t? Are you willing to resign from your position?"


    "Mr Hendrix!" Jack yelled at Lewis


    "It''s alright. As a leader, I''m supposed to lead by example and get tasks like these done. If I don''t find the missing shipment in two days, I''ll willingly resign," Lora dered. Lewis secretly smirked and shared a look with his father, Craig Hendrix and a few other board members.


    Lora left the conference room and began to make calls. Just when she was about to leave when she


    received a lead about the shipment, her phone rang.


    She thought it was news about the sh ant so she quickly answered without looking at her phone." Hello, Lora Davis speaking."


    "Lora."


    Lora froze when she heard Ryan''s voice on the phone. She rolled her eyes and snapped, "What is it, Mr. Kingsley?


    "I would like to invite you home. My grandfather-


    "Can you stop pestering me? So annoying!" Lora snapped and cut the call outright, frustration creeping


    into her.


    At the same time, Ryan red at the phone when Lora hang up on him. "Lora... how dare you hang up on me like that?''


    There was this painful lump in his throat that couldn''t go away... Lora''s indifference irked him.


    Natie

 Chapter 35~ A scream

    Chapter 35- A scream


    "Can you stop pestering me? So annoying!"


    Lora''s cold voice rang in Ryan''s mind and her harsh words kept reying in his mind like a broken record.


    Her attitude confused Ryan to the core. He couldn''t take her off his mind. This was new to him, after all, he was used to women throwing themselves at him and no one had ever dared to reject him. Lora Davis being the exception


    Ryan sighed internally as he swirled the amber liquid in his ss. He was seated on a leather couch in the VIP section of his club and soft music yed in the background.


    After that call with Lora, he had been in a bad mood and needed a drink to calm down.


    Davis'' daughter is so proud. She needs to be put in her ce."Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    Ryan''s ears perked up when he heard that. His eyebrows creased as he turned his head to nce to the right side of the club. A few old men were ying pool while others sat on an L-shaped leather couch, smoking cigars and drinking expensive whiskey. ''Davis'' daughter? Are they talking about Lora Davis?'' Ryan mused.


    "Mr Hendrix, I''m so sorry you had to endure that from her. How dare she treat your son like that? He was supposed to be the CEO, not an inexperienced brat like her!" One of them said.


    Ryan narrowed his eyes. ''Craig Hendrix? Isn''t he a major shareholder in Davis & Co? They really are talking about Lora,'' he said in his mind and paid attention to their conversation.


    "Hahaha, don''t worry about that. She''s on her way out. It''s only a matter of time before she gives up. The shipment that went missing is worth millions of dors. She will have to take responsibility for it," Craig Hendrix could be heard speaking with a mocking tone. "Oh, foolish girl. She doesn''t know what''s in store for her. The only one she will have to me is Jack Davis. How could he let his daughter inherit thepany? That''s a man''s job!"


    "You''re right, Mr Johnson. If Lewis got the position, we would benefit more. We need to kick that little girl out. It''s not our fault that Jack couldn''t be man enough to father a male heir."


    As Ryan listened to the conversation, he couldn''t help the anger that ripped through him. His eyes turned cold and he clenched his hands into fists. How dare they talk about Lora like that?


    He wanted to walk in on them and give them each a good beating, but he had to hold himself back from doing so. His actions could put Lora in more danger and he also wanted to hear what they were nning to do.


    A


    surge


    of protectiveness crept into him. He won''t let anyone hurt Lora, ever! Ryan didn''t know why, but he wanted to protect Lora with all he had.


    The business world was cruel, and Lora seemed to be a target of a big conspiracy within her own father''spany. These men would do anything to usurp her position.


    "She promised to find the missing shipment within two days but that''s not going to happen. What we will get after two days is her resignation," someone said.


    Chapter 35- A scream


    A murmur of agreement echoed through the room followed byughter.


    "I can''t wait to see her face when she finally learns her ce," Craig Hendrix remarked.


    "How does she n to find the shipment though? That area is said to be dangerous, that''s why we have the toughest men working there," someone said.


    "That''s the n. If something happens to her, the position will be empty and ready for someone worthy," one of the men replied.


    "But... what if she really finds the shipment within two days?" Someone reasoned.


    "Ohe on. What can a little girl like her do? It''s impossible for her to find it within two days, not when no one wants to help her."


    "Hahahaha, you''re right."


    The menughed and clinked their sses to celebrate their foreseen victory.


    "If only she was obedient," another man scoffed. "Being CEO got to her head,really quickly. What''s the n, Mr Hendrix?"


    "When she fails to find the shipment and asks for more time, propose for Lewis to look for it. He will find. it within an hour and then, we can vote for him to be the CEO," Craig replied.


    "Hahahaha, I love this n. Let''s show Jack''s daughter that the business world is no ce for a little girl like her. Perhaps she can seduce Lewis and get married to him, then she can be the CEO''s wife, hahaha." Ryan gritted his teeth and worry crept into him. He recalled how Lora sounded like when he called her earlier that day. She seemed to be in a hurry.


    He got to his feet and went to his office within the club before dialling Lora''s number.


    When she didn''t answer, Ryan furrowed his eyebrows. Could something have happened to her?


    A thought urred to him and he used the club''s telephone to call her. As expected, Lora''s voice echoed through the speaker. It see

 Chapter 36~ His frustration

    Chapter 36- His frustration


    Chapter 36 His frustration


    "Are you sure you received all the shipments for this month?" Lora asked one of the personnel at the port.


    She had received a lead earlier but it turned out to be a false lead. That was when she realised someone was deliberately trying to lead her in the opposite direction. So, she decided to go to the port and check for herself whether the shipment was missing or not. The personnel looked through his records and confirmed, "Yes, all the shipments arrived safely. None was lost at sea."


    "Ok, did anyone from Davis & Co. sign a release document for shipment XXXXX?" Lora questioned seriously.


    The man appeared to hesitate. He gulped and said, "No, Ma''am. No one has signed yet. It seems they couldn''t find the shipment."


    Lora frowned. "But you said all the shipment arrived."


    "Yes... but yours mysteriously disappeared and no one signed for it," the man said.


    "Ok... I''ll search for it myself," Lora remarked, she was about to turn around when she heard a familiar voice.


    "Lora!"


    Lora froze when she heard Ryan''s voice: She whipped around, her eyes widening when she saw him walking towards her with a worried look on his face.


    ''Ryan?'' She asked in her mind, feeling confused. ''What is he doing here?''


    "What-"


    Before she could ask why Ryan was there, Ryan had reached her and grabbed her arms, concern flickering through his eyes. "Are you ok? Are you hurt? What happened?" Ryan looked at Lora''s body this way and that, seemingly looking for any injuries.


    His eyebrows were creased in worry as he searched her body with his eyes, "Why did you scream and why was your phone off?" Lora''s eyebrows met. She was taken aback by Ryan''s reaction. He kept checking her repeatedly like she was his most precious thing.


    "Lora, answer me! Are you ok?" Ryan nced into Lora''s eyes intently with so many emotions shing through his eyes.


    Lora didn''t want to answer Ryan, however, seeing him so concerned for her stirred aplex feeling in her heart.


    She couldn''t deny that seeing him so worried about her moved her a little. It was the first time she was seeing that look on his face. A look that looked like he was afraid something would happen to her.


    "1. I''m ok, Ryan, chill," Lora stammered, her heart pounding in her chest. "I was a bit distracted when I


    Chapter 36- His frustration


    answered


    hone and I slipped."


    Ryan''s worned eyes searched Lora''s body again. He asked, "Did you get hurt?"


    Lora felt a flutter of butterflies in her stomach. She gulped and replied softly, "I only sprained my ankle. It''s no big deal."


    Ryan lowered his eyes and his heart sank when he saw the purplish bruise on Lora''s right foot. She was still wearing her high heels! Wasn''t this woman concerned about her leg?


    "Why are you still walking around in those shoes? Do you want to lose your leg? And why was your phone off? You haven''t exined about that," Ryan questioned.


    Lora said, "My phone battery went off and I''m fine, Ryan. Why are you making such a big fuss about it?" Ryan was left speechless. He thought someone had kidnapped her or attacked her or something. Ryan couldn''t even exin why he was so worried about her. The moment he heard her scream, he couldn''t think about anything else and just followed his instincts and feelings.


    "I couldn''t help it... I just wanted to make sure you''re safe," Ryan remarked, looking into Lora''s eyes.


    For a moment, Lora got lost in Ryan''s deep gaze... the emotions flitting through his eyes, the anxious and concerned look on his face... she felt a little moved.Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    However, she recalled who Ryan was and came back to her senses.


    She blinked and said, "Thank you for your help, Mr Kingsley. You can leave now, as you can see, I''m working."


    Mr Kingsley? Didn''t she call him Ryan just now? Ryan was confused by Lora''s hot and cold attitude. He recalled the conversation he heard in the club. Smiling at Lora, he offered, "I heard you lost a shipment. I''ll help you find it... the logisticspany bringing in most goods belongs to me."


    Lora frowned and replied, "No thanks-"


    Ho


    "It''s fine if you don''t want my help. But I''ll stay since this concerns mypany too... I need to find that shipment," Ryan stated.


    Lora sighed in resignation and turned to walk away. Ryan followed and walked beside her, he took out his phone and sent a few texts.


    They kept walking around while looking at the many containers at the port. Lora had a limp because of her fall. She sighed and said, "It will be hard to find it. These many containers look like a maze."


    Ryan''s phone buzzed and a smile crossed his lips when he read the message. He nced at Lora and uttered, "I know where to find your shipment. Let''s go this way."


    He led Lora through a small path with containers on either side. It didn''t take long for them to find the container.


    A man was seated near the container while smoking a cigarette. He wasughing out loud and said to some of the men who were there, "This container will never make it to thepany warehouse. Do you know how much my share will be? I''m going to be richl


    Chapter 36 His frustra


    Lora furrowed her eyebrows. She approached the man and stated, "Now you won''t get a chance to be rich. You''re fired!"


    The man jumped from his seat, his eyes widening when he saw Lora''s face. He dropped the cigarette in his mouth and stammered, "M-Miss Davis? It''s not what you think-"


    "Are you saying you didn''t try to sabotage thepany? I''m being merciful, otherwise, the police would have been here by now. You''re fired with immediate effect!" Lora hissed, her eyes turning cold.


    She nced at the other men who looked frightened and ordered, "Have the shipment delivered to the warehouse, if you try anything funny, not only will I fire you, I''ll have you locked up in jail!" ""Y-yes Ma''am!"


    Ryan was impressed with the way Lora handled the situation. He stepped closer to her and was about to bend down to look at her leg but Lora stepped back.


    "What are you doing?" Lora asked, eyeing Ryan warily.


    "I just want to look at your ankle... it looks swollen-"


    "No need," Lora declined coldly.


    Ryan''s eyebrows creased. The woman was clearly in pain, why was she refusing his help? He offered, "Let me carry you to the car then. I don''t think you should use that leg in that state."


    Lora looked into his eyes and rejected him, "No thanks, Mr Kingsley. I can manage to walk on my own."


    Ryan gritted his teeth and ran a hand through his hair in frustration. "Why are you so cold to me?! I''m just trying to help!"


    "Is it appropriate for a man with a fiancee to carry another woman? Or that''s just in your nature, Mr Kingsley... Do you have a habit of flirting with other women when you already have a fiancee?" Lora remarked coldly and began to limp away.

 Chapter 37~ We are nothing

    Chapter 37- We are nothing


    Ryan was about to reply but he paused when Lora''s words echoed in his mind. He smiled at Lora and asked, "Are you jealous?"


    "What?" Lora was bereft of any words, she stopped walking and nced at Ryan in disbelief. How did hee up with that conclusion? "Well, you seem so angry that I have a fiancee... the only exnation is that you''re jealous," Ryan said with a smirk.


    "You-" Lora red at the man.


    Ryan''s smile only grew wider and Lora felt the need to correct him. She firmly said, "I''m not jealous! There''s no reason to be."


    However, Ryan was convinced Lora was jealous. Why else would she be so angry that he was flirting with her when he had a fiancee?


    His heart felt light for some reason. He smiled and stated, "I''m taking you to the hospital for a checkup."


    Before Lora could tell what was happening, she was swept off her feet. Being carried unexpectedly, she instinctively wrapped her arms around Ryan''s neck.


    When she realised what he had done, she began to kick her legs, demanding, "Put me down! I didn''t allow you to carry me!"


    "Shhh, you''re making noise. Do you want everyone to know I''m carrying you? The way you''re screaming would make anyone think we are having a lover''s quarrel," Ryan said huskily and Lora stiffened in his arms.


    It would be worse if someone saw Ryan carrying her, so she kept quiet, knowing he wouldn''t put her down. She didn''t want anyone to see them and take pictures.


    Ryan smirked when Lora calmed down and he carried her to his car before driving to the hospital.


    When they arrived at the hospital, Ryan called for a Doctor and instructed, "I want you to conduct a full body check-up on her. She fell but I want to make sure she''s alright."


    Lora rolled her eyes. She said, "You''re blowing things out of proportion, I just sprained my ankle."


    Ryan ignored Lora and told the Doctor, "Make sure you do a full body check-up."


    The Doctor nced at Lora who was in a wheelchair and remarked, "This way, Ma''am."


    Lora sighed in resignation. She didn''t want Ryan to continue nagging her, so she went for the full body check-up.


    When the Doctor brought her back to the VIP ward, Ryan approached them and asked, "How is she?"


    The Doctor smiled and assured him, "She''s fine. Her ankle is just swollen but after putting some ointment for a few days, it will be ok."


    "Are you sure? Did you check if she has any internal injuries?" Ryan asked again.


    The doctor nced at Lora and remarked, "Your husband is so worried about you, Ma''am. He must love


    Chapter 37- We are nothing


    you a lot,"


    Lora furrowed her eyebrows. She stated, "He''s not my husband, Doctor."


    The doctor''s eyebrows hiked up. He looked between the two and thought they looked like a married couple.


    Chuckling, he said, "Sorry, he was so concerned for you that I thought you two were married."


    "We are just strangers. He saw that I was hurt and offered to help, that''s all," Lora replied.


    On the side, Ryan almost coughed out blood at Lora''s remark.


    Was she for real? Did she just ca nim a stranger after everything they had been through in thest few weeks?


    He gritted his teeth and coiled his hands into fists.


    When the doctor left, he stared at Lora and questioned, "Are we strangers even after we worked together?"


    "So what if we worked together?" Lora uttered coldly. "What are we if not strangers?"


    "I don''t agree... we are not strangers," Ryan remarked.


    "We will always be strangers, Mr Kingsley. The only thing that connected us was the partnership which is over. Now, we are nothing but strangers. Ryan gulped and felt like someone had stabbed him. Lora''s words stung.


    He nced at Lora and saw how she had raised her walls again. The warmth he had seen earlier had gone and she had returned to being cold and distant. Frustration crept into him. How could he understand this woman? Why was she so guarded against him?


    "Lora, I-"


    Lora''s phone buzzed. She nced at Ryan and said, "Thank you for your help, I''m leaving now."


    "Let me take you home, you left your car at the port," Ryan offered.


    However, Lora shook her head. She replied, "I''ll send someone to get it for me and I''ve arranged my own transport. I won''t be troubling you anymore tonight." Lora got to her feet and limped away. Seeing this, Ryan followed after her, wanting to convince her so


    that he could take her home.


    When they reached the entrance, Ryan thought Lora was about to hail a cab, so he suggested, "Let''s go, I''ll take you with my car-"


    However, an expensive car pulled up in front of them and Jason Anderson stepped out of the car. He smiled when he saw Lora and approached her.


    "I came as soon as I could... let me take you home," he offered and Lora smiled at him before taking his hand.


    "Then I''ll be troubling you, Jay. I left my car at the port," she replied.


    Chapter 37- We are nothingContent is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Jason helped Lora into his car and helped her wear her seatbelt. The move looked intimate and Lora didn''t avoid him... Ryan watched this scene and he felt like someone was wing at his heart.


    Jason closed Lora''s door and walked around the car but before he got into the driver''s seat, he looked at Ryan and said, "Thank you for taking care of Lora, Mr Kingsley. I''ll treat you to dinner to thank you when I have the chance."


    He got into the car and drove away, leaving Ryan seething as he red at the car. Lora didn''t even spare him another nce, neither did she say bye to him.


    Ryan''s blood boiled from anger, his heart burning with jealousy.

 Chapter 38~ An apology

    Chapter 38- An apology


    Meanwhile, Ivy''s phone buzzed and she checked the message she had received.


    Her eyes turned vicious when she saw the photos on her phone. She dug her nails into her palms, anger bubbling up within her.


    The private investigator she had hired just sent her photos of Lora. However, she didn''t expect to see Ryan in those photos.


    ''Ryan, why do you keep follow..g Lora around? She''s not working with you anymore...'' Ivy thought in her mind.


    Deep down, she knew the reason Ryan couldn''t stay away from Lora. It was because Lora looked like histe wife. Perhaps like her, Ryan also wanted to confirm Lora''s identity.


    Ivy couldn''t have that. She had to find out before Ryan so that she could get rid of Lora and her kids. After enduring for many years, waiting for Ryan to finally marry her, Ivy wouldn''t give up so easily.


    Hatred shed through her eyes as she muttered to herself, "I can''t afford to lose Ryan... Not to that bitch, Lora!"


    The next day, Lora was in her office when Hannah knocked on her door.


    "Ma''am, you have a visitor," Hannah announced.


    Lora furrowed her eyebrows. She didn''t have any appointments this early. After meeting the shareholders to let them know she had found the shipment, Lora hoped to sit in her office and get some work done. After all, she was working as a CEO and also, designing some drafts for thepany.


    "Who is it?" She asked her assistant.


    Hannah scoffed. "It''s Miss Ivy Williams. The audacity of her to show up here..."


    Lora sighed internally. ''I''m sure she''s here to find trouble.''


    "Let her in," Lora answered.


    A little whileter, Ivy wheeled herself into Lora''s office and approached her desk. Before Lora could ask > what Ivy was doing there, Ivy threw some photos on Lora''s desk.


    She sneered and said, "I know who you are, Lora."


    Ivy nced at Lora intently, wanting to see her reaction. She wasn''t sure and she was trying to confirm her suspicion.


    Silence fell upon the room.


    Lora nced at the photos and saw that they were of her and her two children.


    She raised her eyes and arched an eyebrow at Ivy before asking, "So? Is there a problem?"


    Ivy''s eyes shed with hatred when she realised Lora was indeed Larisa.


    Chapter 38- An apology


    "So it''s you! How did you survive that explosion and why are you pretending to be someone else? Are you even Jack Davis'' daughter? You''re an imposter!" Ivy yelled, losing her cool.


    Her heart was pounding so hard, she could hear it in her ears. This was not good. ''Larisa is alive! And she has kids who belong to Ryan!''


    Fate was cruel. The woman she thought was out of Ryan''s life forever was the same woman who came to steal him away once again hatred for Larisa intensified as she red at thetter.


    "What are you ying at Lora, are you here to steal Ryan away? Let me tell you something, I''ll never let anyone steal Ryan away! Never!" Ivy hissed.


    Lora let out a chuckle. She shook her head and replied, "You know what, I pity you so much. Why waste your time fighting other women for a man when you should be working on your skills which are very bad at the moment? Your focus should be on trying to save your reputation, noting here to talk about a man who doesn''t mean anything to me. I do not wish to steal your man and neither am I interested in him. I would appreciate if you told him to leave me alone."


    Ivyughed like a maniac. She spat, "Larisa, I know you... you''ve been ying hard to get but you''re actually using your face to seduce Ryan! Let me warn you, get your dirty little brats and leave this city, or else..."


    Lora rolled her eyes at Ivy''s threat that she left hanging. She replied, "Ivy, just because you got rid of me once, doesn''t mean I''ll give you a chance to do it again. I''m not the same person I was six years ago." Ivy''s eyes widened and panic washed over her. Did Lora know the truth about what happened six years ago?


    She couldn''t ask Lora directly and there was no way to find out, so the best way to avoid talking more about the issue was to leave.


    Ivy red at Lora before turning and leaving her office in a haste.


    However, the moment lyy left Lora''spany, she was on the patio when arge group of reporters surrounded her, shoving cameras and microphones in her face.


    "Miss Williams, why did youe to Miss Davis''pany?" One of the reporters asked.


    "Miss Williams, did youe to create trouble for Miss Davis?"


    Seeing that many reporters around her, Ivy''s heart jumped to her throat. She didn''t know how to answer those questions.


    "Miss Williams, can you please tell us why you visited Miss Davis''pany?"Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    Ivy was panicking, wracking her brain for how to answer when Lora suddenly appeared next to her.


    Lora smiled at the cameras and announced, "Miss Williams came to apologise for giarising my work."


    Gasps echoed among the reporters. They were intrigued by the gossip and one of them asked, "Miss Williams, is that true? Did you reallye to apologise to Miss Davis?"


    Ivy gulped. She looked up at Lora and thetter gave her a challenging look. ''So, this was all nned by you, Lora,'' Ivy mused when a lightbulb went off in her head.


    Chapter 39- An apology


    Since she couldn''t tell the reporters the real reason she came to see Lora, Ivy could only admit. She nodded and said, "Yes, I felt really bad about what happened and reflected on my actions." Looking at Lora, she remarked reluctantly, "I''m sorry, Miss Davis."


    Lora smiled and said in front of the cameras, "I forgive you, Miss Williams. If you have trouble with designing next time, be sure to ask me for tips. I''ll teach you for free."


    Ivy ground her teeth in exasperation.

 Chapter 39~ A proposal

    Lora smiled in satisfaction when she saw Ivy''s red, angry face.


    When she heard that Ivy had gone to visit her, Lora instructed her assistant to call the reporters over. She knew Ivy only came to make trouble for her, so her n was to beat Ivy at her own game.


    ''Serves you right. Don''t think you can trick me with your innocent fa?ade this time around,'' Lora said in her mind while the reporters took several pictures of them.


    Just like that, Lora and Ivy were making headlines together again. The inte was buzzing with news about how Ivy took the initiative to apologise and openly admit her giarism while others praised Lora for her humility.


    Later on, Lora was in her office, a smirk on her face as she read through thements on some social media pages.


    "Congrattions Miss Davis for getting your most deserved apology! That woman used your designs to try and get you banned from the industry. Too bad you forgave her, she was supposed to pay!"


    "This is still good for Miss Davis, aka Miss L. As a legendary designer, it would be petty of her to hold on to grudges, after all, Miss Williams admired her work so much that she opted to steal them. Now that she''s admitted her giarism in public, no one will ever take her seriously."


    "You''re right. Miss Williams is such a joke."


    Just like Lora had supporters, there were also others who spoke for Ivy.


    "Miss Williams is also a veteran designer and as one, it''s good that she knows mistakes can be corrected. She admitted her mistakes and is willing to do better. I''m looking forward to her new work. Cheer up, Miss Williams!"


    However, this particrment attracted bacsh as many of Lora''s fans reacted to it with angry emojis and replied to thement.


    "What are you saying, blind follower? Miss Williams stole two of Miss L''s designs. If she wanted to admit her mistakes, the first time she stole Miss L''s design and had it mass-produced, she would havee clean. But she made Miss L look like the thief." "She''s admitted to giarism quite alright, but when will she respond to the fact that she was a mistress who ruined someone''s marriage? She has no morals at all... not only is she a giarizer, she''s a homewrecker too. #lvyWilliamsmustbebanned!"


    "I think this was a futile attempt by Miss Williams to save her reputation, however, it didn''t work. We''ve already seen her true colours. Behind that kind, innocent face is a venomous snake."


    Lora smirked as she read the negativements directed at Ivy. Indeed, revenge was sweet. Even though it didn''t hold a candle to what Ivy had done to her, at least, Ivy was now the subject of ridicule. She now knew what it felt like to be on the receiving end. As for Lora, people said she forgave Ivy because of herpassion and empathy. Since she was generous enough to let Ivy go, Lora''s reputation grew and this good image made the stock price of Davis & Co. skyrocket. Hannah rushed into Lora''s office and announced, "Ma''am, the stock price went up by one thousand percent! Wow! You''ve broken the record, I''m sure this will annoy those shareholders who want you out." Lora smiled and replied, "I came here to win, Hannah. In all areas."


    Later in the evening, Lora got off work and stepped out of the building. To her surprise, Jason was waiting for her outside again.


    However, he looked different this time, more formal. He was dressed in a tanned suit, with neatly styled hair and he was holding a bouquet of roses in his hands as the city lights illuminated his frame.


    He looked like a prince from a fairytale and people couldn''t help but stop to see what the handsome young man was up to.


    "Jay? What''s going on?" Lora asked, her eyes wide.T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Jason had brought her flowers before but this looked different, romantic even. He was even ying soft music from his car.


    "Lora, I can''t wait anymore," Jason began. He approached Lora and gave her the flowers before saying, "I love you, Lora. From the day that I met you, I''ve always wanted to make you mine." Lora''s lips twitched and her stomach knotted with nerves. She didn''t expect Jason to do this in front of everyone.


    "Ja-"


    "Shhh, let me finish. I know, you''ve been hurt before, you told me your past rtionship didn''t end well. Although I don''t know the details, whoever he was, he was a fool to lose you. I''ll never be that fool. I''ll love you the way you deserve... I''ll give you the sweet kisses and caresses a woman like you deserves. Lora Davis, will you be my girlfriend?" Jason confessed. Lora''s lip quivered and her eyes watered with tears. Those words... it''s all she ever wanted to hear from the man she loved.


    She thought Jason was a good man. Unlike Ryan, he never treated her like she was an option. It was clear that she was his priority and there was no confusion in her mind. She wouldn''t have to constantly question where she stood in his life because he showed her the ce she would have in his heart.


    If someone treats you as a backup n, it''s better to cut them off and choose someone who chooses you.


    Jason could see that Lora was contemting, so he added, "I''ll make you the happiest woman in the world, Lora. I promise."


    When Lora heard that, her heart felt at ease.


    Jason was right... she believed she could be happy with him and she believed Jason deserved a chance. He stood by her for so many years without expecting anything. Moreover, Lora also wanted to move on with her life. Why would she deprive herself of love just because one rtionship didn''t work?


    Taking in a sharp breath, she looked into Jason''s brown eyes and answered, "Yes, Jay. I''ll be your girlfriend."


    "Really?" Jason''s eyes lit up.


    Lora chuckled when she saw the happy look on Jason''s face. It felt good to know that there was someone this happy to be her man. She nodded and repeated, "Yes, really."


    "Yes!" Jason eximed and without warning, he cupped Lora''s face and pecked her lips.


    The crowd erupted in apuse and took pictures of the beautiful scene.


    ...


    Meanwhile, Ryan was at the club with Adan Nicholson. Adan had been scrolling on his phone when he came across thetest news.


    He showed Ryan his phone and said, "It seems Miss L is in love."


    When Ryan saw the photo on Adan''s phone, his hand trembled and the wine ss he was holding slipped, crashing to the floor and shattering into a million pieces.

 Chapter 40~ A kiss

    Chapter 40- A kiss


    Ryan had met his friend Adan to have a couple of drinks. He took that moment to ask about how the nvestigation wasing along.


    Adan shook his ne and said, "Something feels fishy, bro. My men are good at finding out things... but


    his particr case has been difficult. We haven''t gotten any more news sincest time."


    Ryan narrowed his eyes. He recalled how Lora reacted each time he got close to her... it was almost like she was hiding something and was afraid he would find out.


    He took a sip of his wine and remarked, "Keep looking. Pump in more money if possible. I want to know everything there is to know about Lora Davis."


    Adan nodded, knowing this was important to his friend. He took out his phone and began to scroll through his social media when he came across a piece of news. His eyes widened in shock. "Oh shit."


    Ryan nced at himzily and asked, "What is it? One of your women again?".


    "No, man... I don''t know if I should show you this," Adan remarked.


    "Why? Does it have anything to do with me?" Ryan asked.


    Adan nced at Ryan and showed him his phone screen before saying, "It seems Miss L is in love."


    Ryan''s heart skipped a beat.


    He looked at the phone and read the news. It said not only was Miss L at the peak of her career, but she was also in love.


    Beneath the caption was a picture of Jason kissing Lora. From the angle at which the picture was taken, it looked like they were a very loving couple who met after a long day''s work and showered each other with sweet kisses.


    A strong surge of jealousy rushed through Ryan, he wound up dropping his wine ss, not caring that it shattered to pieces on the floor.


    He grabbed Adan''s phone and read the article. It said that Jason had proposed to date Lora and the woman readily agreed. Who wouldn''t agree when the man was so upfront and open about it?


    Every woman loved a man who was proud of them and could show them off to the world.


    Ryan clenched his hand around the phone and Adan said, "Whoa, easy there... that''s a new phone, bro."


    "Fuck," Ryan cussed and ran a hand through his hair.


    Why did his heart hurt so much? He was filled with so many conflicting feelings that he couldn''t understand. All he knew was that he wanted to break every bone in Jason''s body for holding and kissing Lora.


    Suddenly, Ryan''s phone rang. He furrowed his eyebrows when he saw that it was Ivy but he picked up regardless.


    "What is it?" He snapped.


    Chapter 40- A kiss


    "Ryan.. I wanted to tell you that I apologised to Lora in public, hoping that it would help increase thepany''s reputation. Please forgive me, Ryan. I didn''t think when I stole Lora''s work. I was desperate but now, I''m willing to do anything to make things right," Ivy remarked. "Can I continue working in the jewelrypany? I''ll do my best this time around."


    Ryan''s eyebrows creased. He was not in the mood to chat with Ivy, so he agreed to get her off his back." Fine, you can return to work."


    On the other side of the one, Ivy smiled and thought. I knew Ryan would forgive me. He still loves me.''


    She said on the phone, "Ryan, since you announced the engagement to the media and the day of our engagement ceremony is a few days from now, how about I visit your family officially?"


    Ryan zoned out when he heard Ivy''s words. He thought about how Lora had just agreed to date Jason and his heart clenched with indescribable pain.


    ''Lora... do you really love that man?'' Ryan mused in his mind, clenching his hands into fists.


    "Ryan?? Can I visit your family before our engagement ceremony?"


    Ivy''s voice on the phone brought Ryan back to the present but he was in no mood to discuss the engagement with her.


    "1


    He answered, "I''ve been very busytely, trying to deal with the aftermath of the scandal. Our engagement ceremony will be postponed to ater date." "Ryan-"


    Ryan cut the call before Ivy could continue, his mind reeling with several thoughts. He couldn''t shake off the image of Jason kissing Lora from his mind.


    The jealousy burning in his chest was so fierce that it could start a forest fire. He got to his feet and left


    the club.Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    Before he knew it, he had driven to Lora''s apartment building. Lora had filled in her personal details when they had a partnership and Ryan had a photographic memory... he could still remember her address. He took out his phone and called her.


    At the same time, Lora had just put the kids to sleep when she received a call from Ryan. She frowned and cut his call immediately.


    However, he kept calling like a debt collector and she sighed. Rolling her eyes, she answered, "Hello, Mr. Kingsley, why are you calling me at this time of the night?"


    "Come downstairs or I''lle up," Ryan ordered and cut the call, leaving ho room for refusal.


    Lora rolled her eyes. What did Ryan want with her this time?


    She knew without a doubt that Ryan would follow through with his threat ande to her apartment, so she left the house and went downstairs.


    She found him standing outside his car, his face devoid of any emotion. When he saw her, he began to approach her.


    Chapter 40- A kiss


    Frowning, Lora asked, "How can I help you, Mr Kings-mmmm!"


    Before she could tell what was happening, Ryan was in front of her, he cupped the back of her head firmly, cutting her words off by crashing his lips on hers in a forceful kiss. Lora''s eyes widened. She was so shocked that she forgot to push him away right away.....


    Ryan wrapp as though h


    s other arm around her waist and pulled her body against his before kissing her fiercely s trying to erase the traces of another man from her lips.


    ''Oh fuck,'' Ryan groaned in his mind when he tasted Lora''s vour... he didn''t expect the kiss to feel so good... he felt like he was about to explode inside from the thousands of emotions rippling through him... Kissing Lora felt so...


    Ryan suddenly hissed and pulled away from Lora before wiping away the blood on his lips with his thumb. He looked hurt as he asked, "You bit me?"


    However, Lora''s chest heaved as anger surged within her. She had tried to push him away but he wouldn''t budge, so she ended up biting his lip.


    Raising her hand, she pped Ryan''s face, the force of her p tilting his head to the side. She spat, "How dare you!"


    Lora red at Ryan coldly before running back into the building, her heart pounding rapidly against her ribcage she was afraid it would burst out of her chest. Natie


    Author


    Thank you for reading.


    10


    3

 Chapter 41~ Playboy

    Chapter 41 yboy


    "Girl, congrattions on your victory! You won the first round," Bianca Jones told Lora as they sat in their favorite eating ce.


    Lora smiled faintly. She remarked, "I did... it felt good to put Ivy in her ce."


    Bianca smiled and paused when the waiter brought their food and drinks. When he was done serving, she took out her phone and took pictures.


    "This looks good, I need to post this on my ins-ta-gram since I''m this restaurant''s brand ambassador," Bianca said and Lora chuckled.


    Bianca was from a wealthy family but she wasn''t interested in her family''s business. She loved being a social media influencer, so she vlogged almost every detail of her life.


    When Bianca finished taking pictures, she put her phone aside and remarked, "I loved seeing the news of Ivy''s public apology. Her face looked like she had constipation with that fake smile of hers, haha!"


    Lora nodded and replied in a low voice, her mind seeming to be wandering elsewhere, "Mmmm, that''s true. She didn''t expect to be ambushed like that but it serves her right for trying to harm me again."Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!


    "I''m so happy for you, my friend. You''re able to stand up for yourself now. Ivy deserves everything she''s going through right now and more," Bianca said, piercing her steak with a fork harshly.


    She had always hated Ivy Williams with a passion. Ivy had destroyed her friend''s marriage and went ahead to try and kill her six years ago. Bianca was happy to see Ivy get defeated.


    "That''s right... she''s an evil woman and one day, everyone will know who she really is," Lora replied absentmindedly.


    Bianca suddenly recalled something and banged her hand on the table excitedly. She eximed, "Oh my God! I almost forgot! You and Jason are now an item! And oh my... the way he confessed his feelings for you, so romantic... and the way you stood quietly waiting for him to finish and ept his proposal, that was very mindful, verydylike, very demure."


    Loraughed out loud. She shook her head and replied, "There was nothing else I could do but wait for him to finish his confession and I believe he deserves a chance...."


    However, her smile faded and she fell silent, Ryan''s face shing through her mind. He kissed her...


    Bianca looked at Lora and studied her expression. She had noticed that Lora wasn''t herself today. It was not like her to be so quiet. And it was strange for someone who just started a new rtionship to look so unhappy.


    "Lora, are you not feeling well? Or did something happen at work? You look like you have a lot on your mind," Bianca asked.


    Lora looked at her friend and bit her lower lip. She finally confessed, "Ryan kissed mest night."


    "What??" Bianca squealed, her eyes almost popping out of their sockets. "H-He kissed you?? Did you kiss him back?"


    "No!" Lora quickly refused, her stomach fluttering at the memory. She frowned and said, "It was a forced kiss. Why would I respond?"


    Chapter 41- yboy


    "Did you like it?" Bianca arched an eyebrow at her friend.


    "Bee! My God! Why would I like it? I didn''t!" Lora''s eyes widened. "I want nothing to do with him, remember?"


    Bianca furrowed her eyebrows. She remarked, "Why would he kiss you though? Does he know you''re Larisa? Did you reveal your identity to him?"


    3


    Lora shook her head and took a sip of her cold drink. She had been wondering about it all night too... why did he kiss her? So passionately too... he had never kissed her like that when they were married.


    "He doesn''t know... and I''ve never told him who I really am," she replied.


    "Do you think he''s fallen in love with you or he kissed you because you look like Larisa?" Bianca asked. "He can''t fall in love with me, Bee. He''s always been in love with Ivy. And he can''t kiss me because I look like my old self... he was never in love with me, so why would he want to kiss histe wife? I can count with my fingers on one hand the number of times we kissed in our marriage. Perhaps he''s just a flirt," Lora said, her eyes turning cold.


    "Then he''s still a scumbag... anyway, you found someone better... he has no women around him and you will be his only one," Bianca stated. She looked at Lora and asked, "Will you introduce the twins to their father?"


    Lora furrowed her eyebrows. She recalled how Ivy went to her office to confront her about her kids. There was no way she would let her kids have such an evil stepmother.


    "I won''t be entangled with Ryan anymore... I''ll definitely live my life well from now on... I''ve moved on and so has he..." She replied airily.


    Looking at the time, Lora said, "I have to get back to work, hun."


    "Oh, ok. I''ll stay here and do some shopping. Thank you for buying me lunch, babe," Bianca responded, smiling at her friend.


    They soon parted ways and Bianca went into one of the stores at the mall.


    Meanwhile, Adan Nicholson was at the same store with one of his many girlfriends. She was busy choosing almost every expensive branded outfit in the store when Adan saw Bianca walk into the store. He raised his eyebrows and approached her....


    "Adan, where are you going?" The woman he was with asked but Adan ignored her and called out to


    Bianca.


    "Bianca Jones.... It''s been a while," Adan remarked, a side smirk ying on his lips.


    They never really interacted when Larisa was married to Ryan since Ryan wasn''t in love with Larisa.


    Bianca rolled her eyes when she saw the Moonstone City''s manwhore. She looked behind her before turning to look at Adan and asked, "Are you talking to me? I hope not because I''m not interested in conversing with a yboy..." "A yboy?" Adan arched an eyebrow.


    Chapter 41- yboy


    "Of course, everyone knows you''re found with a new woman every week. Excuse me, your girlfriend might kill me with her eyes," Bianca said, not wanting to entertain the man.


    Adan''s eyes flickered with interest when Bianca bypassed him and continued her shopping. He was suddenly intrigued by Bianca''s feistiness.


    ''Why didn''t I know that Bianca was such an interesting woman?'' He thought, a small smile crossing his lips.


    Natie

 Chapter 42~ A date

    Chapter 42- A date


    At Lora''s apartment, the twins had knocked off from school and were in the yroom.


    Ethan sighed when he saw the news on his tablet. He shook his head and clicked his tongue before saying, "Daddy is so dumb. He let Mommy go to someone else."


    E pouted. She looked at her brother and asked, "Is Mommy going to marry Uncle Jason? Does this mean we will grow up without a Daddy?"


    "Uncle Jason is not bad. He loves Mommy and since he''s the one Mommy wants to marry, we have no choice but to ept him as our Daddy," Ethan reasoned with his younger sister. E''s eyes brimmed with tears and her lower lip quivered. She said, "But I want Uncle rich and handsome to be my Daddy."


    "E, the man who Mommy loves will be our Daddy-"


    "No! I want the handsome Uncle. I like him even if he''s dumb," E protested and tears rolled down her cheeks.


    Ethan felt bad for his younger sister. He leaned over and wiped her tears, saying, "Don''t cry, E. Such a crybaby. Don''t worry, I saw Daddy kiss Mommyst night. There''s still hope."


    E''s eyes lit up. She immediately stopped crying and asked, "Are you telling the truth, Ethan? Mommy and Daddy kissed like other parents?"


    Ethan nodded, smiling at E. He promised, "I''ll help Daddy win back our Mommy... but not now. Mommy seems to be very angry with Daddy but I think she still loves Daddy, otherwise, she wouldn''t be so angry with him." "Does Daddy love Mommy?" E asked.


    Ethan stroked his chin thoughtfully and replied, "I''m not sure... From what I sawst night, he does. But I don''t know why he''s with that evil woman."


    E grinned and suggested, "Since they both love each other, let''s help our parents get back together!"


    Ethan nodded and gave E a high-five.


    Days passed by in a blur...


    It was a weekend and Jason had asked Lora out on their first date as a couple. For this date, Jason offered to teach Lora how to y golf.


    He had always wanted to teach her but Lora rejected his offer because of how intimate the postures he would make when teaching her were. However, now that they were a couple, Lora agreed to let him teach her.


    They both looked stylish with Lora wearing a white, sleeveless polo shirt with a mini-white red skirt and white sneakers. Whereas, Jason wore a navy, ssic polo shirt which was tucked into tanned golf pants. Both Lora and Jason wore white caps to shield their faces from the sun.


    Chapter 42-A date


    "I''m going to show you how to do it and then, you will try it on your own," Jason said the moment they reached the golf course, "Watch me."


    It was a warm and sunny day and the golf course was quiet, save for the rustling of leaves from the trees in the distance. There was a resting area where those who were tired sat to watch the yers on the


    course.


    "You have to stand like this with your feet spread apart," Jason exined, getting into position. He gripped the golf club tightly and ced it behind the golf ball. "As a beginner, you don''t need to do hard swings... just be gentle and try to smoothly swing the ball into a hole by using a few strokes."


    Jason swung his club and hit the golf ball. He kept his eye on the ball and threw a punch in the air when it entered a hole in one stroke. "Yes!"Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    "Wow! Your skills are amazing," Lora praised, impressed. "Here... it''s your turn," Jason said and gave Lora the club.


    11


    Lora hesitated but she grabbed the club and got into position, trying to recall what Jason had done. She asked, "Am I doing it right?"


    "Rx your shoulders," Jason instructed and when Lora raised her shoulders, he chuckled and went to stand behind her. He ced his hands on Lora''s shoulders until she rxed her arms... then he grabbed her waist to help with her stance. He murmured in a low voice, "Like this..." Stepping closer, he positioned his hands over Lora''s hands on the club from behind and offered, "Let me help..."


    Lora could feel Jason''s warm breath on the back of her neck. Her heart raced in her chest but she didn''t know if it was because of the position they were in or something else.


    Meanwhile, in the resting area, Ivy Williams looked at the couple on the course before asking Ryan, "Isn''t that Lora and Jason?"


    Ryan who was resting in his chair and had his eyes closed opened them when he heard Ivy''s words. He nced at the course and narrowed his eyes when he saw Lora and Jason''s intimate position.


    "Oh my... I didn''t know their rtionship had advanced so much. They look so good together," Ivy remarked, looking at Ryan.


    However, her heart sank when she saw the angry look on Ryan''s face as he red at the couple.


    Ryan''s jaw was clenched. His eyes were burning with fury as he watched Jason help Lora with swinging the golf club.


    ''Take your hands off of her!'' He roared in his mind. His chest was heaving and it was taking his all to not rush over and separate them.


    Ryan had arrived at the golf club earlier. He didn''t want to go on a date with Ivy, however, she kept asking him and he chose toe to the golf club since Ivy couldn''t y in her condition... it was his way of avoiding her. Who knew he would run into Lora and Jason at the golf club?


    When Lora sessfully swung a ball into a hole, Jason turned her around before cupping her face and cing a kiss on her lips.


    Chapter 42- A date


    Seeing that, Ryan got to his feet, pushing his chair back with a screech. He couldn''t take it anymore... he wanted to rush over there and take Lora away!


    If looks could kill, Jason would be dead by now.


    "Ryan..." Ivy called Ryan, seeing how he was fighting with himself to stop himself from going over to Lora. He couldn''t even take his eyes off of her. It was clear to Ivy that he was jealous...


    Ryan didn''t look back at Ivy so she made to grab his hand but she ended up falling out of her wheelchair before rolling on the floor.


    "Ouch... Ryan, I think I''ve sprained my ankle. Please take me to the hospital," Ivy cried.


    Only then did Ryan look at Ivy. Guilt crept into his heart when he saw Ivy on the floor and he carried her before cing her back in the wheelchair.


    At this moment, Lora and Jason walked to the resting area to get some refreshments. Lora had seen Ivy fall from her wheelchair. She looked at her and remarked, "Miss Williams, it''s been years since your injury, howe your legs haven''t been treated yet? I know a few internationally renowned experts who can help treat your legs if you would like."


    Ivy turned pale at Lora''s words.


    Natie

 Chapter 43~ Stalker

    103


    Chapter 43- Stalker 43- Stalker


    ChapterIvy dug her nails into her palms, gritting her teeth. She forced a smile at Lora and replied, "Thank you, Miss Davis... that''s so kind of you. However, Ryan has been looking for the best doctor for me... I''m sure he will arrange one for me soon. Thanks for the concern though."


    Lora nodded. She already knew that Ivy would reject her offer, but the way Ivy''s face drained of colour when she mentioned treating her legs made Lora squint her eyes in suspicion.


    Why did she be anxious when Lora mentioned Introducing her to experts? It was also strange that Ryan had failed to find an expert to treat Ivy after all these years. The man could move mountains for lvy, so why did it take so long to find the right treatment for her? Could it be there was more to Ivy''s condition than meets the eye?


    Lora shook her head and thought, ''Why am I even thinking about this? It doesn''t have anything to do withBelonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    me.''


    She didn''t want to have anything to do with Ryan or Ivy ever again. Being entangled with the two always caused her trouble and she was determined to avoid them like the gue.


    Jason cleared his throat and broke the tension in the air. He stared at Ryan and said, "Good afternoon, Mr Kingsley. I didn''t expect to see you here with your fiancee. I brought my girlfriend over to teach her how to y golf... since she''s going to be my wife, I want her to learn all there is to know about me. It''s also a good way to spend time together."


    Ryan narrowed his eyes at Jason and the air around him turned cold. Was he showing off that he was on a date with Lora?


    "It seems Miss Davis has a lot of free time. Shouldn''t you be working on strengthening your footing in thepany? If you have time to date like this, I''m afraid you will be dethroned before you know it," Ryan sneered, his cold eyes falling on Lora.


    For some reason, Ryan didn''t like Jason at all. There was something about him that told him he wasn''t as simple as he looked. The man came out of nowhere and yet, there was nothing anyone knew about him.


    "That''s none of your concern, Mr Kingsley," Lora responded curtly.


    Jason chuckled to ease the tension that had risen once again. He said, "All work and no y makes Jack a dull boy. I think a break or two is ok, not so, Mr Kingsley? Speaking of breaks, I''m yet to fulfil my promise to treat you to dinner as a thank-you for taking Lora to the hospitalst time... please, let me take this opportunity to invite you and your fiancee to dinner."


    Ryan''s jaw clenched, his eyes showing the anger he was trying so hard to keep hidden. Without looking at Jason, he replied coldly, "No need."


    He grabbed Ivy''s wheelchair and pushed her out of the resting area, intense anger oozing off him in


    waves.


    On the other side, Diane Kingsley, Ryan''s younger sister, rushed to a convenience store to buy a sanitary pad.


    Chapter 43- Stalker


    She had just moved to her apartment after staying in the hotel for a few days and hadn''t bought enough supplies yet.


    Knowing her stepmother and stepsister were at the mansion, Diane didn''t want to go back and run into them. The duo always caused trouble for her...


    However, she didn''t expect her period toe this early. It was an emergency, hence she rushed to the store... there was nothing worse than having messy underwear.


    Diane walked down the aisle and grabbed a pack. As she turned to go and pay for it, she bumped into a hard wall.


    "Ouch," Diane rubbed her nose before looking up. However, her eyes widened when she saw the "wall" she had bumped into. Pointing a finger at the man, she eximed, "You! What are you doing here? Are you stalking me?"


    The man was none other than, Aiden Davis, Lora''s uncle. When he heard Diane''s usation, he arched an eyebrow and remarked, "Seriously? What makes you think I''m stalking you?


    Diane scoffed, "Isn''t it obvious? You followed me here, didn''t you? Don''t tell me you live around here." "do live nearby," Aiden replied, looking down at the woman. He raised the pack of milk in his hand and said, "I came to get some milk... how is that stalking?" "I don''t believe you, Mr... you''re a pervert! Why would youe to the store to only buy one pack of milk?" Diane questioned, ring at Aiden.


    Aiden arched an eyebrow and said, "Just like you came to the store to buy one pack of pads?"


    Diane''s face turned pink. "Huh... you see, you''ve been watching me! Let me warn you. If I catch you again, I''ll report you to the police. Just because you''re handsome and have cute dimples, doesn''t mean I''ll let you get away with it!"


    Aiden chuckled in amusement but Diane threw him a re before sidestepping him and walking to the till.


    However, on her way home, Diane noticed that Aiden was following her. Her heart jumped to her throat and her stomach churned from fear.


    ''Could he be a serial killer and I''m his target?'' She asked in her mind, quickening her footsteps. The sun had fallen and only streetlights lightened up the area.


    As she neared her apartment building, Diane couldn''t help but yell at Aiden, "Why are you still following me? You''re now doing it openly, huh? Just you wait... I''m going to call the police once I get to my phone!"


    Her heart was pounding as she made hurried steps while keeping an eye on Aiden, making sure he wasn''t chasing after her.


    To Diane''s horror, when she entered the elevator, Aiden walked in with her. She eyed him warily, her heart pounding erratically.


    "I''m warning you, if you do anything to me, my brother will deal with you. He''s the most powerful man in the city," Diane said.


    However, Aiden didn''t reply. He didn''t press on any floor and Diane''s suspicions were confirmed. ''Why did I leave my phone? Is he going to force himself into my apartment and do crazy things to me?'' 2/3


    Chapter 43- Stalker


    When they reached thest floor, Diane stormed out of the elevator and whipped around, ready to give Aiden a piece of her mind.


    However, Aiden ignored Diane and walked ahead in the hallway.


    "Hey! Where do you think you''re going? I''m calling security...." Diane trailed when Aiden walked to the apartment next to hers and keyed in his passcode.


    ''He lives here?'' Diane thought and blushed profusely. ''How embarrassing!''

 Chapter 44~ Found a way

    Chapter 44- Found a way


    Ryan stepped into the private room at the restaurant and frowned at the unexpected crowd seated around the table.


    He nced at his father, Miles Kingsley, with a questioning gaze. "What''s this, Dad? You said you wanted to meet me for lunch to discuss something. What''s with the crowd?"


    Miles stared at his son and pointed at the seat opposite him. He replied, "Take a seat son. We are all here to discuss your engagement ceremony with Ivy."


    Ryan clenched his hands into fists and his jaw clenched as anger bubbled up within him. It seemed his father had tricked him into a meeting with the least people he wanted to see. Ivy sat next to the empty chair that was meant for Ryan while his stepmother and stepsister sat next to his father.T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    He furrowed his eyebrows and said firmly. "I can''t discuss the ceremony without my grandfather." Hearing that, Miles couldn''t help but get angry. He looked like a pressure cooker that was about to explode as he questioned, "Son, do you undermine my authority because my father didn''t give me thepany to run? You might be his sessor but I''m your father! You must obey me!"


    Ryan nced at his father and replied coldly, "I undermine you because of the witch you brought into our lives. I''m sorry, Dad. But as long as you have that woman whispering in your ears, there''s nothing that you can say to change our rtionship." "Ryan! Your grandfather spoiled you a lot! Celeste is my wife and you will respect her!" Miles hissed.


    Ryan red at his father and left the room without sparing Ivy a nce. When Ivy saw Ryan leaving, panic crept into her.


    She wheeled herself after him, calling, "Ryan, wait!"


    At the same time, in the private room, Celeste ced her hand on Miles'' arm before saying, "I''m sorry I brought a rift between you and your son, Darling."


    Miles sighed, his eyebrows creasing. He remarked, "I don''t know what happened to him. He used to be such a good kid when his mother was alive. Where did I go wrong?"


    Something shed through Celeste''s eyes but she hid it quickly. She smiled at Miles and remarked, "Don''t me yourself, Darling. I''m so sorry you don''t get along with your only son... if only you had another son, you wouldn''t need to pressure Ryan and the two of you would still have a good rtionship."


    Miles looked at his wife and nodded. He said, "It''s a pity my only son doesn''t listen to me... it''s like I''m useless to him." Celeste stroked Miles'' arm andforted, "Don''t feel sad, Darling. I''m sure Ryan wille around." Meanwhile, Ivy kept going after Ryan.


    Ryan was about to enter his car when Ivy called out to him again, "Ryan, please wait! Please don''t leave like this."


    Ryan turned around sharply and red at Ivy. He questioned, "Why didn''t you tell me you were meeting my father to discuss the engagement? I told you it was postponed but you went behind my back and met my father without my consent!" 1/3 Chapter 44- Found a way


    "I''m sorry, Ryan. I didn''t know that your father had nned a lunch meeting with me... he just called me to meet him and I didn''t have time to tell you. I actually thought it was you who arranged the meeting since I had askedst time," Ivy exined, her eyes watering with


    tears.


    Ryan looked at lvy, his eyebrows creasing... she seemed to be the same woman he had known all this while. Innocent, kind and sensible. But why did he doubt her words?


    Ever since she lied and giarised Lora''s work, his trust for her crumbled like the earth under a weak hill.


    Seeing that Ryan didn''t say anything, Ivy added, "You have to believe me, Ryan. I had no idea your father had nned this. If I did, I would have let you know."


    The truth was that Ivy was the one who contacted Ryan''s stepmother and asked her to convince his father for this meeting. After Lora offered to find an expert doctor to treat her legs, Ivy became angry and developed a sense of crisis.


    She needed to marry Ryan as soon as possible. Before he realised who Lora really was, she needed to make him hers permanently.


    It wasn''t hard to convince Ryan''s stepmother and stepsister after promising them huge benefits if they urged Ryan to quickly hold the engagement ceremony. However, Ivy didn''t expect her perfect n to fall through.


    She looked up at Ryan and tears rolled down her cheeks. "I was just so happy that your father contacted me. It showed that he supported our rtionship despite me being stuck in this wheelchair, so I didn''t hesitate and agreed to meet him." Ryan froze at Ivy''s words. He gulped, trying to swallow the lump of guilt that was lodged in his throat.


    Sighing, he remarked, "It''s hard to believe you nowadays, Ivy. I can''t tell when you''re telling the truth or when you''re lying."


    "I''ll never lie to you again, Ryan. I learnt my lesson. I don''t like it when you''re angry at me..." Ivy responded, squeezing out more tears.


    Ryan frowned. He didn''t want to continue this conversation, so he offered, "Let me take you home."


    Ivy smiled mentally. As long as she knew Ryan''s weakness, he would always be wrapped around her finger.


    A little whileter, Ryan had just dropped Ivy off at home when he called his best buddy, Adan Nicholson.


    "Bro, how far with the investigation? Have you found anything about Lora''s hospitalisation?" Ryan asked.


    "Unfortunately, no. I haven''t found anything..." Adan replied on the phone.


    Ryan pinched the bridge of his nose. He remarked, "The harder it is to find information about Lora, the more interested I am in finding out. I need to know what she''s hiding."


    On the other side of the phone, Adan nced at the woman who was shooting an ad in one of his stores.


    He smirked, ncing at Bianca with interest before saying, "I''ve found a more direct and interesting way to investigate, bro."

 Chapter 45~ An invitation

    Chapter 45- An invitation


    A few dayster at Davis & Co.


    "Miss Davis, Mr Kingsley is here to see you," Hannah reported through the inte.


    Lora frowned. ''Ryan is here? What does he want now?


    "Has he told you what he wants?" Lora asked. She wasn''t in the mood to entertain Ryan.Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "He said it''s about the uing jewelryunch party," Hannah reported.


    Lora bit her lower lip. She replied, "Let him through."


    Since she had promised to help with the project, she couldn''t send Ryan back if he was here to talk about work.


    A few minutester, Ryan walked into Lora''s office and took a seat opposite her. He nced at Lora and his heart skipped a beat.


    He always felt she looked attractive when working. She wore a pastel pink feminine suit with her dark brown hair was left to flow on one side of her shoulder. "How can I help you, Mr Kingsley?" Lora asked, very aware of Ryan''s heated gaze on her.


    Why was he looking at her like that?


    Ryan blinked to clear his head. He said, "I''ve been preparing theunch partytely and I''m confident your designs will help thepany gain poprity."


    Lora nodded and remarked haughtily, "Of course, they will. You have designs created by Miss L herself." Ryan let out a low chuckle. He reached for the inside pocket of his navy-tailored suit and took out an invitation card before cing it on the table.


    "I came to personally invite you to theunch party," Ryan remarked.


    Lora arched an eyebrow. Ryan Kingsley was delivering an invitation card himself? Wasn''t he busy?


    "You could have sent your assistant, Mr Kingsley," Lora pointed out..


    "No... you''re our VIP guest, so I came to invite you myself," Ryan replied, a smirk ying on his lips.


    The truth was that he wanted an excuse to see Lora, and sending the invitation card to her was the perfect opportunity.


    Lora didn''t believe Ryan but she didn''t call him out on it. She picked up the invitation card and said, "I''ll definitely attend. I would like to see my work on disy."


    A thought suddenly urred to Lora. The event would have high-profile people. If Bianca could attend, she could get a lot of deals to work with theirpanies. The exposure would help her modelling career


    too.


    11


    Looking at Ryan, Lora asked, "Can I have an extra invitation card?"


    Ryan frowned and questioned, "Why?"


    Chapter 45- An invitation


    ''Is she trying to get another card for Jason?'' Ryan thought in his mind.


    Anger and jealousy surged through him. He shook his head and muttered, "No. Not everyone is eligible to attend myunch party. I can''t just give out invitations to any Jim and Jack."


    Before Lora could respond, Ryan got to his feet and left her office angrily.


    Lora, "....."


    ''Why is he so angry? He could have just said he no longer has invitation cards to give out,'' Lora mused, confused by Ryan''s reaction.


    Meanwhile, on the other side of the city, Adan walked into the Maddie''s sports apparel store and walked towards the area where he could hear clicks of cameras.


    A smile crossed his lips when he saw Bianca making several pauses as the photographer took pictures of her. She was wearing thetest tennis attire and Adan couldn''t help but think she looked hot. The way the short dress hugged her figure... her long milky legs. She was the epitome of beauty... her blonde hair was pulled into a pony tale, exposing her beautiful neck. Adan was mesmerised by this woman as though he was seeing her for the first time.


    Ever since their brief encounter at the clothing store that day, he couldn''t seem to take her off his mind. When the shoot was over, Bianca felt a heated gaze on her. She turned and frowned when she saw Adan who appeared to have been watching her for some time. Adan smiled and approached her before saying, "Wow... ver knew you''re this good at what you do."


    Bianca arched an eyebrow. She questioned, "What are you doing here? Were you watching me like a creep?"


    Adan let out a chuckle. This woman liked to roast him for no reason. Was she angry at him because he was Ryan''s friend?


    "You''re mistaken, Bianca. This is my store.... Maddie''s is named after my sweet mother," Adan answered. Bianca blushed. She cleared her throat and said, "It may be yours but I saw you watching me. Why?"


    "Yes, I was making sure the ads are being done properly," Adan smirked.


    He suddenly took out a card and gave it to Bianca before adding, "And since I liked your work, here''s an invitation card to LAN''s Luxurious Jewelryunch party, I would like you toe with me."


    20


    Bianca got the card and looked at it. She arched an eyebrow and asked, "Why would you invite me?" Eyeing him suspiciously, she asked again, "What do you want from me?"


    Adan simply smirked and answered, "You''re the most beautiful woman I''ve ever seen in the city... So, I want you to be my plus one."


    Bianca''s eyebrows creased. Adan wasn''tcking when it came to women. He had a dozen to choose from if he needed someone to apany him. So howe he invited her?


    Chapter 45- An invitation


    Knowing Adan was Ryan''s best friend, Bianca couldn''t help but question Adan''s purpose for approaching her. What was he ying at?


    "It''s a good opportunity for you too... you will get to meet many people who would need your services," Adan said, getting the card from Bianca. "Just say yes and I''ll pick you up."


    Bianca looked into Adan''s dark eyes, searching for something. Since she couldn''t figure out what he wanted at the moment, she had no choice but to ept his invitation. "Fine, I''ll attend the party with you," Bianca replied and a side smirk crossed Adan''s lips.

 Chapter 46~ A dress

    Chapter 46-A dress


    Days came and went and soon,. I was the day before theunch party.


    "Are you ready for tomorrow?" Jason asked Lora on the phone.


    As per tradition, Jason had called Lora before her bedtime.


    Lora bit her lower lip before replying, "I am kind of nervous."


    "Really? ver expected you to be nervous when everyone praises your work," Jason remarked.


    Lora let out a sigh and said, "It''s like that with artists. We always doubt ourselves no matter how good one is... there''s always that anxiousness about whether people will like our work or not. I have confidence in my work, but I can''t help but be anxious about everyone''s reaction to it. Of course, I know not everyone would be a fan of my work and that''s understandable. We all have different tastes but that doesn''t mean negativements don''t get to me."


    "You''re only human, my love," Jason replied. "Your skills are exceptional. You don''t have to worry."


    "Yes but I just can''t help but be nervous," Lora murmured.


    "Well, for me, I can''t wait to officially meet Miss L at theunch party tomorrow..." Jason teased.


    Loraughed heartily and said, "Oh stop it... you''ve met me so many times already."


    "I have but not in this formal set-up. I''m honoured to be your plus one," Jason remarked on the phone.


    Lora smiled, feeling warm. It turned out she had made the right decision to date Jason. He was so kind to her and always showered her with love and affection. Something she had never experienced when she was married to Ryan.


    Although her rtionship with Jason had no intense sparks or tingles, she felt at ease because Jason didn''t give her a reason to be doubtful.


    The two exchanged a few more words before Lora said, "I think I need to call it a night now."


    "Ok... Goodnight, Lora. I love you," Jason responded.


    Lora fell silent before awkwardly saying, "Goodnight, Jay."


    She couldn''t bring herself to say those words back. To Lora, love was a sensitive word that should be said when one meant it from the bottom of their heart.


    A few minutes after the call, Lora suddenly heard the doorbell ring. She narrowed her eyes and mused,


    Who could it be at this time?''


    Sighing, she left her bedroom and went to open the door. However, there was no one outside. Confused. Lora was about to go back in when she saw therge gold box on the floor right at her doorstep.


    "What is this?" Lora asked herself before picking the box up.


    After making sure there was no one outside, she entered her house and opened the box to see what was inside.


    A gasp left Lora''s lips when she saw the dazzling sapphire blue evening gown in the box. It was apanied by a pair of embellished heels, a pair of sapphire blue diamond earrings and a ne. where the dress came from but she found Lora looked through the box to search for a note or a name 9 none.


    "Could this be a surprise from Jason?" Lora thought.


    He did call her to talk about theunch party. Perhaps he dropped the box at her door while they were talking on the phone.


    A smile crossed her lips as she took out the gown and held it against her body. She thought it suited her and she loved it, knowing she would look like a goddess in the elegant, stunning dress.


    "I didn''t know Jason knew my taste so well," Lore


    remarked as she admired the dress.


    "Mommy, did someonee?" E''s voice echoed through the door as it opened and the twins entered the room.


    "E, Ethan, why are you still awake?" Lora asked, her eyebrows creasing.


    "We heard the doorbell, Mommy," Ethan replied.


    E saw the dress in Lora''s hands and her eyes widened dramatically. Her jaw dropped to the floor as she stared at the dress in awe.


    "Wow! Mommy, that dress is so pretty! Are you going to wear it to the party tomorrow?" E asked excitedly.


    Lora smiled and nodded, "Yes, I''ll wear it tomorrow."Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    "You''re going to look so beautiful, Mommy. Right, Ethan?" E remarked.


    "Yes, she''s the most beautiful mother in the world," Ethan stated and Lora''s eyes watered with tears.


    Her children always melted her heart. They were so adorable.


    "Can Ie to the party too?" E requested. "I also want to wear a pretty dress like you, Mommy."


    Lora nced at her kids and thought to herself. ''Although I am capable of protecting them, I don''t think I should expose them so soon.*


    She stroked E''s hair before saying softly, "No, sweetheart. I can''t take you with me... but I''ll ask Nanny Nova to let you watch the live stream."


    E pouted for a moment. A few secondster, she nodded and replied, "OK, Mommy. I''ll watch you on


    TV."


    Lora smiled. She loved how obedient her children were. Putting the dress away, she ced kisses on their foreheads before saying, "I''ll take you to lots of parties in the future, ok?" When the children nodded, Lora said, "Now, go back to bed you two, I''ll make you your favorite pancakes in the morning."


    "Yay! Goodnight, Mommy!"


    Left alone, Lora looked at the dress and a smile crossed her lips. This was the first time someone was doing something special for her... It felt good.


    At the same time, Ryan watched the lights from Lora''s apartment go off and a small smile crossed his lips.


    ''She''s epted the dress,'' he mused, a surge of satisfaction rushing through him.


    Giving Lora''s apartment onest nce, he got into his car and drove away, thinking about how Lora would look in the dress he had chosen specifically for her...

 Chapter 47~ The lucky lady

    Chapter 47~ The luckydy.


    Time flew by in the blink of an eye and the night of theunch party finally arrived.


    The hall at one of the biggest hotels in the city was decorated in golds and dark greens. Chandeliers with dangling crystals hang from the ceiling, casting a mesmerising golden glow over the ce.


    Lora smiled at the man beside her and hooked her arm to his when they arrived at the venue. The moment the two of them stepped through the double golden doors, silence fell over the ce and all eyes turned towards them. "I think Miss L just made a grand entrance," Jason remarked as he led Lora inside.


    Almost everyone was looking at Lora in awe. She looked so breath-taking in the one-shoulder sapphire gown she wore that fit her like a glove. It had a thigh-high split with a corset bodice, shaping her figure.


    Her hair was styled in a slick low bun, her face glowing with light makeup and a daring cherry red lipstick.


    People couldn''t help but greet andpliment Lora about her work.


    "Miss L, I''m so honoured to meet you tonight. You''re the most talented designer in our city," someone said, eyes sparkling in admiration. "I''m a fan of your work."


    "Thank you so much," Lora replied politely, smiling as they made their way through the crowd.


    "Good evening, Miss L, Mr Anderson, you two make a good match," another one said when he stopped Lora and Jason to greet them.


    Lora smiled warmly and Jason replied, "Thank you, Mr Carson. I''m the happiest man to have Miss L as my woman and partner tonight."


    He ced his hand on the small of Lora''s back and led her to their table. As they proceeded, Lora felt a burning gaze on her. She whipped around and saw Ryan standing on the other side of the room, his eyes fixed intently on her. He looked smouldering in an all-ck suit. His gorgeous dark locks were styled into a slight quiff, enhancing his handsomeness.


    Lora saw a flicker of anger in Ryan''s eyes as he stared at her. However, she gave him a slight nod of acknowledgement and returned her attention to Jason


    Meanwhile, Ryan almost ground his teeth to dust when Lora ignored him. A wave of intense jealousy rushed through him. The moment he saw Lora, he couldn''t take his eyes off of her and he hated howfortable she was around Jason.


    His eyes shed when he saw Jason''s hand on Lora''s lower back. He wanted to walk over and rip that hand away from her body. How dare this man touch her openly like this? What happened to giving someone space so they could breathe? Ryan was going crazy with jealousy. Jason was touching Lora like she belonged to him or something and it irked Ryan so much.


    At the same time, Ivy who was seated next to Ryan in her wheelchair followed his gaze and saw what he had been looking at for some time now.


    Anger and fierce jealousy surged through her when she saw him looking at Lora with a longing gaze.


    ''So, I''m just a substitute,'' she said in her mind, a lightbulb going off in her head.


    When Ryan agreed to bring her to the party as his plus one, Ivy was happy that he still loved her regardless of how cold he had been towards hertely.


    However, after seeing how Ryan changed when Lora entered the hall, Ivy realised she was just a recement. It didn''t matter if it was Lora or Larisa... Ivy was always a substitute.


    The woman Ryan wanted by his side was Lora.


    Ivy gripped the arms of her wheelchair tightly, anger and jealousy rippling through her like a tidal wave. She nced at Ryan and her heart clenched, seeing his attention entirely on Lora as she chatted andughed with Jason on the other side of the room. "Ryan..." Ivy called out to get Ryan''s attention away from Lora. She asked, "Do you think I would also look as beautiful as Lora if I could walk? I do wear pretty dresses and heels but no one can see them since I''m stuck in a wheelchair."


    Ryan was brought back to the present at Ivy''s words. He tore his gaze away from Lora to look down at Ivy who sat by his side.


    His eyebrows creased and when he saw the sadness in Ivy''s eyes, guilt twisted in his chest. He sighed and forced a smile before replying, "Ivy, you''re beautiful in any form. Whether you''re in a wheelchair or not, you''re perfect."


    Ivy smiled, her heart calming down when she sessfully caught his attention. She nodded and said, "As long as you think of me that way, I''ll have confidence in myself."


    Suddenly, the host walked to the stage and announced, "Ladies and Gentlemen, wee to the LAN''s Luxurious Jewelryunch party. We are gathered today to celebrate the officialunch of Mr Ryan Kingsley''s new jewelrypany and also, to see the beautiful jewelry collection made from the legendary talented designer, Miss L''s designs."


    He went on to make some opening remarks and the audience listened quietly. When he was done, he


    smiled at the crowd and said, "Now is the time all thedies have been


    waiting for. I say this because f for the opening dance, Mr Kingsley will randomly choose one luckydy from the audience to have the first dance with him."


    Gasps of surprise echoed around the hall. Some of thedies wished Ryan would choose them as his dance partner. It would be an honour to dance with the prince-like billionaire.


    The host waited for the excited murmurs to quiet down and continued, "Each of the invitation cards is numbered and those that were given todies have been written on small cards and put in this big bowl."Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!


    He picked up a transparent bowl and showed it to the crowd before saying, "Our CEO will draw one card and if that card matches the number on your invitation card, then that means you''ve won a chance to be Cindere tonight."


    A murmur ofughter echoed through the hall. While somedies eagerly nced at the numbers on their cards, praying to be chosen, Lora frowned.


    She watched as Ryan smiled at the crowd, his eyes briefly falling on her before he walked towards the stage and drew one card from the bowl. Lora suddenly felt a sense of unease and she clenched her invitation card tightly, her heart racing rapidly for some reason.


    Under everyone''s gaze, Ryan nced at his card and handed it over to the host.


    The host grinned and announced, "The number on the card is..."


    Silence fell over the hall as thedies waited with bated breath. Everyone would kill to have a chance to dance with Ryan Kingsley. "Number 5!"


    "Wow, who''s the luckydy?" One of thedies asked, looking at the otherdies'' cards to see who was lucky enough to be selected. "Number 5, please step forward. You won yourself a dance with the CEO!" The host announced again.


    Everyone looked around, wondering who that woman may be.


    Suddenly, Jason nced at the card in Lora''s hand. He looked at her and said, "Lora, that seems to be the number on your card." Lora looked down at her card and her breath hitched.


    Natie


    Author


    Thank you for reading.


    3

 Chapter 48~ The dance

    Chapter 48- The dance


    Lora tried to hide her card when she saw the number but someone had already seen it.


    "We have a winner here! Miss L is the winner!" One of thedies shouted excitedly.


    All eyes, including Ryan''s, turned to look at Lora, putting her in the spotlight.


    The host smiled and said, "Miss Davis, you have to dance with Mr Kingsley since he picked your number."


    Ryan got down the stage and approached Lora. When he reached her, he held out his hand and remarked, "I may have picked your number but since I''m a gentleman, I''ll ask you to dance. May I have this dance, Miss Davis?"


    Gasps echoed around the ce as women fanned themselves. Ryan looked so hot as he asked Lora to dance.


    "Congrattions on winning, Miss Davis. You''re so lucky!" Someone said."


    Lora frowned internally.


    Lucky? More like cursed. Why would Ryan pick her number out of all thedies who were in the hall? She looked up at Ryan and her heart skipped a beat. She had to admit he looked handsome. He was handsome... However, that didn''t mean she could forget the past and act like it didn''t happen.


    "Miss Davis?" Ryan asked, arching an eyebrow at Lora. "Would you love to dance with me?"


    Lora internally sighed. There was no way she could reject Ryan''s request in front of so many people. She was the designer of the jewelry they would showcase that day after all and she used to be Ryan''s partner.


    It would be suspicious if she refused to dance with him.


    Begrudgingly, she ced her hand in Ryan''s and epted, "Yes, I would love to."


    Ryan smirked and held Lora''s hand before leading her to the dance floor. A romantic song by Justin Timbeke began to y. The song was called, Mirrors.


    Lora arched an eyebrow at the choice of song. Did Ryan...?Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    She brushed those thoughts away... the DJ probably thought soft music would be ideal for the first dance.


    Ryan snaked an arm around Lora''s waist before pulling her flush against him, eliciting a gasp from her. His grip was firm, possessive even.


    "What are you doing?" Lora questioned in a low voice through gritted teeth.


    "Dancing with you," Ryan remarked with a smirk and pulled Lora even closer... their bodies were too close to each other with no air able to pass through between them. Lora didn''t want to make a scene so she smiled awkwardly and let Ryan lead the slow dance.


    They were too close... so close that she could almost feel his heartbeat.


    ~"Aren''t you something to admire? Cause your shine is something like a mirror.


    And I can''t help but not notice, you reflect in this heart of mine..."~


    The lyrics of the song hang in the air and as the two swayed slowly to the music, the world seemed to fade away in the background.


    At the same time, Jason red at Ryan with unmasked hatred. However, Lora was unable to see his expression except Ryan who smirked smugly at thetter.


    He already knew he would be having the first dance with Lora tonight. After all, all the cards in the bowl


    had Lora''s card number on it.


    Ryan pulled back to slowly spin Lora before bringing her back into his arms. Their eyes met and he gave her a small smirk.


    He leaned down, his hot breath fanning her neck before asking, "Do you love the dress? I thought it would suit you."


    Lora''s eyes widened and she slightly pulled back to stare into Ryan''s gray eyes. She asked, "Were one who sent me this dress?"


    you the


    Ryan smirked. He let Lora twirl once more before bringing her back and pulling her closer to his body than necessary, his hand on her waist, firm.


    "If not?" Ryan replied. "Did you think it was from Jason?"


    Lora frowned, ring at Ryan. She spat, "I can get my own dress, Mr Kingsley."


    "Oh, I know... bossdy," Ryan teased I and let out a low chuckle. He pulled Lora closer by the waist and leaned over before whispering in her ears, "I knew it would look remarkable on


    you and damn, I was right... you look breathtaking."


    Just then, Justin Timbeke''s voice echoed in the hall as the song reached the chorus.


    -"Cause I don''t wanna lose you now, I''m looking right at the other half of me..."~


    Ryan tightened his hold around Lora''s waist, pulling her impossibly closer, chest to chest, their faces almost touching.


    Lora frowned and red at Ryan before saying, "I''ll return the dress to you... better still, let me know how much you spent and I''ll refund you."


    She couldn''t believe she had mistakenly epted a gift that Ryan had sent. Now he thought like he had some sort of im on her.


    "You''re the star of this night... is it


    wrong for me to give my former


    partner a dress?" Ryan asked,


    spinning Lora with his strong


    arms


    before turning her to face him again just as the song slowly died down.


    "You made me wear a dress you bought without my consent, that''s uneptable," Lora hissed, her jaw clenching.


    She wanted to give Ryan a piece of her mind but with the audience watching their every move, she had no choice but to force a smile.


    "Well, it''s a good thing you didn''t


    know where the dress came from.


    l?


    wouldn''t have been able to see how beautiful you look in it," Ryan murmured.


    Lora was about to reply but the song ended and the crowd erupted in apuse. Wanting to take this


    opportunity to stay away from Ryan, she turned to walk away but Ryan suddenly grabbed her arm, his eyes falling on her neck.


    "That mark on your neck... have you always had it?" Ryan asked, his voice low and husky.


    Lora''s heart skipped a beat before thundering in her chest. She looked up at Ryan sharply, her mind reeling with several thoughts. Did he know something?

 Chapter 49~ The showcase

    Lora blinked, looking into Ryan''s eyes.


    Did he know something? Could Ivy have told him the truth?


    ''No... Ivy wouldn''t tell Ryan about what she discovered about me,'' Lora mused.


    Before Lora could react or respond, Ryan let go of her before walking up the stage. He took the microphone from the host and announced, "Good evening,dies and gentlemen."


    At the sound of Ryan''s voice, the crowd fell silent and turned to nce at him on the stage.


    Ryan smiled and said, "Thank you all foring... LAN''s Luxurious Jewelry is special to me and I would love to see it grow and be sessful."


    He searched for Lora in the crowd and when his eyes found her, he smiled and added, "It''s now time for the big reveal... our production team was able to bring Miss L''s vision into reality and I hope they did justice to her beautiful designs." "Now, the moment we''ve all been waiting for,dies and gentlemen, put your hands together for Miss L''s collection!"


    While everyone was wondering when they would bring out the shelves that would disy the jewelry, the lights in the hall suddenly dimmed. Silence fell over the ce and Lora''s breath caught in her throat.


    Just like everyone, she couldn''t wait to see the end result of her work. Her heart pounded in her chest in anticipation.


    Suddenly, an aisle extending from the stage to the audience suddenly appeared from the floor, making people gasp in surprise.


    Upbeat music began to y and suddenly, the stage was lit just as a model stepped onto the runway, adorned with pieces of jewelry.


    "Wow," someone murmured and the rest followed.


    "This is beautiful... Miss L deserves the title of the genius designer."


    "I want that ne... it has to be mine!"Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    "The bracelets would look good on me. I''ll ce an order immediately."


    Most of the guests went onto thepany''s website to order the jewelry and before the first model could walk back, the jewelry on her body was already sold out.


    More models walked down the runway, wearing different types of jewelry, and showcasing Lora''s designs.


    Lora took out her phone and her breath hitched when she saw the numbers that ced orders for new jewelry to be made using the same designs. The response was so overwhelming that Lora''s eyes brimmed with tears. It always felt good when people took her work seriously.


    Meanwhile, the crowd kept praising the jewelry that the models were wearing. The models, donning light clothing to make the jewelry stand out, smiled at the audience, the jewelry sparkling under the reflection of the light. A ripple ofpliments continued to sweep through the crowd as they watched the show with awe.


    Lora herself was moved to tears... she knew her designs were good but actually seeing them on different people was different. Seeing her work make the models look so elegant, Lora''s heart swelled with pride. Looking at the audience who seemed to love her work, Lora''s heart leapt with joy. All her hard work was worth it... after all, she created such designs to see such smiles on people''s faces.


    Just then, the final model appeared on the runway and Lora''s eyes widened into saucers.


    Bianca?


    Indeed, thest model to showcase the main jewelry piece for that night was none other than Bianca Jones, Lora''s bestie.


    Although Lora was shocked, she felt proud and happy for her friend who looked stunning on the stage.


    Bianca wore a simple but elegant emerald green gown. It was strapless to leave room for the ne adorning her neck. The ne was entirely made up of diamonds that twinkled like the stars under the spotlights. Walking on the runway gracefully, Bianca couldn''t be more beautiful... she looked like an angel that had descended to earth on a mission.


    When Bianca reached the end of the runway, she paused, striking a pose before her eyes found Lora in the crowd. Bianca winked at her bestie before blowing her a kiss, earning amused chuckles from the audience.


    Lora let out a chuckle before


    blowing her friend a kiss, her heart


    Yel


    feeling warm. She was so happy to have her friend wear the jewelry she designed... it was like she had designed the ne specifically for Bianca because it looked so perfect on her.


    When Bianca walked back, signalling the end of the catwalk, Ryan went back on the stage. He smiled and said, "Wow... it''s safe to say, all the jewelry disyed tonight has been sold out. Let''s give ourselves a round of apuse. Your response was overwhelming!"


    The audience pped for a few seconds before Ryan raised his hand to stop them. He then nced at Lora, a smile crossing his lips before he remarked, "I would like to invite the woman responsible for tonight ''s sess. Without her think this newpany would still be trying to squeeze into the jewelry market. Ladies and gentlemen, let''s wee to the stage, Miss Davis, aka, Miss L, the legendary designer!"


    The crowd erupted in apuse and cheers, staring at Lora in admiration as she made her way to the stage.


    Lora took the stage. She grabbed the microphone from Ryan and stared at the crowd. Smiling, she said, "Thank you all so much for your support... It was an honour to show you my work tonight and I''m d you loved it."


    The crowd apuded again, their enthusiasm making Lora feel genuinely touched. Her eyes met Ryan''s and the two smiled at each other, both happy at the oue of theunch party.


    Meanwhile, as everyone was celebrating with Lora and Ryan for the sessfulunch of thepany, Ivy sat in her wheelchair in a dark corner, her teeth itching with hatred as she red at Lora with jealousy shing through her eyes.

 Chapter 50~ Fate

    Lora got down the stage, her smile reaching her eyes as everyoneplimented her work. Indeed of all the things that had happened to her, this was her proudest moment.


    Although she had failed in love, she had seeded in being a mother and nurturing her talent. Seeing everyone so happy and willing to spend millions of dors because of her work made her chest fill with pride.


    As the crowd spread out to mingle and eat, Lora looked for her best friend who just came to join them in the hall.


    When their eyes met, Bianca squealed and rushed to her friend before giving her a hug. "You look gorgeous, my friend! This dress looks good on you."


    Lora sighed and replied, "I thought I looked good too until I knew where the dress came from."


    Bianca''s eyes widened and Lora pulled her to the side where it was quieter.


    "Are you saying Jason got you the dress?" Bianca asked. "That''s so romantic!"


    "No... I thought It was Jason but turns out it was Ryan," Lora replied, her eyebrows creasing.


    Bianca gasped, her eyes rounding at her friend. She eximed, "Wow! That''s new... ver thought he was the type to buy someone a dress."


    "If I knew it was him, I wouldn''t have worn the dress," Lora said, her anger rising at the thought.


    "Why not? The dress is stunning and it looks expensive... it''s a gift and it won''t mean anything if you don''t want it to," Bianca pointed out.


    "It''s easier said than done, Bee. You should have seen the smirk on his face when he saw that I wore the dress he bought," Lora replied, rolling her eyes. She looked at Bianca and added, "Enough about the dress. What''s going on? How did you show up at the party and as one of the models?"


    Bianca sighed... she was still in the emerald green gown that she had modelled in. She replied, "It''s a long story and you wouldn''t believe it."


    Lora arched an eyebrow and said, "Try me."


    Bianca cleared her throat. She appeared to be hesitant to speak. However, just as she was about to say something, a deep voice resonated in the air, interrupting her.


    "Hello,dies!"


    Both women turned to the source of the voice and found Adan approaching them. Adan extended his hand towards Lora and remarked, "Congrattions, Lora Davis. I''m Adan Nicholson, Ryan''s best buddy." Although Adan''s face was calm, he was shocked inside. Seeing Lora up close, he thought he was looking at the face of Ryan''ste wife.


    Could she really be....?


    Lora smiled and shook Adan''s hand before saying, "Thank you, Mr Nicholson. It''s nice to meet you."


    Adan''s eyebrows twitched. He brushed the question that was on the tip of his tongue away and remarked, "The pleasure is all mine. If you don''t mind, I would like to steal my dance partner for a dance now." "Dance partner?"


    Lora frowned in confusion. However, she suddenly saw Adan offer Bianca his arm which she shyly grabbed.


    When Lora saw this, her eyes widened slightly in shock. Bianca blushed profusely.


    "Bee, you two came together?" Lora asked.


    "I''ll exinter," Bianca said to Lora as she was dragged to the dance floor.


    Lora arched an eyebrow at the two of them. Since when had those two been so close? This night had been full of surprises.


    Before Lora could dwell on the issue, she suddenly heard a soft female voice call out to her.


    "Lora!"


    Lora whipped around and found


    Diane Kingsley approaching her with a huge grin on her face. Diane was in a single-strap long gold gown n with her dark hair left to cascade down her shoulders.


    "It''s me, Diane Kingsley, Ryan''s sister, do you remember me? We metst time in the restaurant," Diane said when she reached Lora.


    Lora smiled and nodded before replying, "Yes, I remember."


    Diane grinned and grabbed Lora''s arm before saying, "I loved those pieces of jewelry, my God! You''re so good. No wonder my brother likes you."


    Lora chuckled awkwardly and remarked, "He doesn''t-"


    "Ohe on... we could all see how he was looking at you when you two were dancing!" Diane squealed, her eyes twinkling when she looked at Lora who looked so much like Larisa. Diane used to be fond of Larisa, so it felt good to see Lora who looked so much like her. It was like seeing herte sister-inw all over again.


    "Congrattions on the sess of theunch... I already bought most of the jewelry but don''t tell my brother, I just couldn''t resist! They are so beautiful!" Diane added.


    "Thank you so much," Lora replied, feeling warm. Diane had always been kind and easy to talk to.


    Meanwhile, Aiden Davis who was also at the party happened to see the two women chatting. He approached them and said to his niece, "Congrattions, Miss Davis." When Diane saw the man, she froze and her face flushed pink.


    Lora noticed the change in Diane and saw that her uncle was looking at her. She wondered what was going on between the two.


    "Thank you, Uncle," Lora responded and Diane raised her head sharply.Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Uncle? She had no idea this young, handsome man was Lora''s uncle. Come to think of it, she didn''t even know his name!


    "You''re wee, kiddo," Aiden


    remarked, his eyes never leaving


    Diane. He smirked at Diane and said,


    "Good evening, Miss Kingsley. Just


    so you know, I didn''t follow you here... I was invited."


    Hearing that, Diane''s face turned as red as a tomato.


    Lora watched her Uncle and Diane''s interaction. Last time, Diane was ready to rip Aiden''s head off but


    now, she was acting like she wamet


    ready for a hole to appear in the ground so that she could hide in it.


    Did something happen between them?


    Lora frowned, realising that her close friend and Uncle were somehow entangled with Ryan''s people.


    She suddenly felt a burning gaze on her and when she looked up, she found Ryan staring at her intently from a distance. Lora''s heart skipped a beat.


    Why did she keep getting entangled with Ryan? She couldn''t help but wonder what fate had in store for her.

 Chapter 51~ Action plan

    Meanwhile, Ryan narrowed his eyes at the man who was smiling at Lora and his sister. He beckoned his assistant over and asked, "What is that man doing here? Who invited him?" Lawrence nced at where Ryan was pointing. He smiled and replied, "That''s Aiden Davis, the CEO of Protech Company Limited. You told me to invite all CEO''s, Sir." ''Aiden Davis?''


    Ryan asked in his mind and then it hit him... Jack Davis had a younger brother who was very young. It seemed he had mistakenly gotten jealous for nothing.... Aiden was Lora''s uncle.


    He let out a sigh of relief before someone came over to chat with him about business. However, the whole time that he was engaged in a conversation, he couldn''t keep his eyes off Lora. There was just something about her that drew him in like a moth is drawn to a me. Lora looked so beautiful in the sapphire dress... She looked like a goddess who had no job being on this dirty earth.


    At the same time, Celeste and her daughter, Isabe sat at one of the round tables and discussed about Lora.


    "Mom, are you sure she''s not Larisa? They look so much alike," Isabe asked.


    They were shocked when they saw Lora at the party. How was it possible for her to look like someone who had died six years ago?


    Celeste nced at Lora and saw how Ryan kept looking at her from a distance. Ivy was seated in a wheelchair alone,pletely abandoned by Ryan.


    Sheughed and replied, "If she''s Larisa, do you think Ryan would sit and watch her from a distance? He would confront her about her identity and why she faked her death."


    "You''re right, Mom. Perhaps they just look alike but Ryan seems to be interested in her," Isabe remarked.


    "That''s because she looks like his dead wife. These Kingsley men are all the same... they stay in love with ghosts. Your father is like that too. He can''t forget his damned dead wife," Celeste hissed, a sh of hatred flickering through her eyes. "Does it mean Ivy is no longer useful in our n?" Isabe asked.


    Celeste frowned, thinking about her daughter''s words. She remarked, "We need to tell him about this."


    Isabe nodded and replied, "Yes we should... perhaps Lora would be of much help to us than Ivy."


    The mother and daughter nced at each other, a tacit understanding settling between them.


    On the other hand, Lora was kept busy by the guests at the party. Many people came to greet and congratte her.


    Others were interested in striking a deal with Davis & Co., so they talked to her, hoping to secure an appointment with her. Lora was kept so upied that she didn''t even have time to be with Jason.


    When the party was over, Jason took Lora home. On their way, Lora nced at him and said apologetically, "I''m sorry, Jay. I didn''t get to spend time with you and was so busy."


    Jason gave Lora a side nce and smiled. He replied, "Don''t worry, I understand. You''re a CEO and you need to make connections. I''m here to support you all the way."


    Lora felt warm at Jason''s response and guilt crept into her. Any man would have been upset after what happened at the event. However, just like always, Jason was kind and supportive.


    It didn''t take long for them to arrive at Lora''s apartment. Lora sighed and said, "Thank you for bringing me home. Have a good night."


    "Goodnight to you too, I love you," Jason replied.


    Lora smiled at Jason awkwardly and left the car, hisst words hanging between them.


    When she went up to her apartment, she found the twins waiting for her in the living room.


    "Mommy, you''re back!" E squeaked and rushed towards Lora.


    Lora smiled and crouched down to hug E. She nced at Ethan and said, "Aren''t you going to hug Mommy?"


    Ethan smiled and ran towards Lora to hug her.


    "Mommy, have you fallen in love with the handsome Uncle?" E suddenly asked. "I watched you on TV. I saw you dance with him. You looked like Cindere dancing with her prince." Lora froze at her daughter''s remark. She stroked E''s hair before saying, "Don''t talk about adult issues, sweetie."


    E pouted. She replied, "I just thought you fell in love with him. Since the princesses in the movies marry the prince after dancing with him."


    Lora chuckled at her daughter''s


    innocence. She lightly pinched her cheek and said, "Well, Mommy is not a princess and that man is not a prince either, so that''s not going to happen. Come, let me read you guys a story and put you to bed.


    When Lora left the children''s roomter on, the two kids opened their eyes and sat on their beds. Ethan took his fablet from under his pillow, a serious expression on his face. He said, "Daddy has earned some points! He danced with Mommy."


    "Yes! I''m so happy," E replied, her eyes gleaming with joy. "I''m giving him a thumbs up!"


    Ethan nodded seriously and uttered, "Daddy has be a little less dumb. He now knows how to take advantage of the situation. He was able to dance with Mommy because she couldn''t reject him in public." "Are we going to live happily ever after now?" E asked excitedly.


    Ethan shook his small head. His brows met, giving him an expression that made him look like an adult. He sighed and replied, "It will take more than a dance for them to make up."


    Looking down at his tablet where he


    had drawn his action n, he shook his head and remarked, "It''s going to be a long ride. We need to get rid of that evil woman first... Mommy will never forgive Daddy as long as that woman is around." Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!

 Chapter 52~ Fishing for information

    Earlier, Jason watched Lora go upstairs, his eyebrows creasing in deep thought.


    He was quite sure Ryan had given Lora the dress she was wearing... this was because a famous fashion designer had auctioned off one of her best designs a few days back and a mysterious businessman had bought it at a very high price. Jason had been interested in the dress and wanted to get it for Lora, however, the mysterious businessman kept bidding higher than him and he ended up giving up the dress.


    After all, he thought it wasn''t worth it to pay two million dors for a mere dress.


    To his shock, Lora ended up wearing the dress and knowing her, there was no way she would spend so much money to buy a dress.


    It could only be Ryan...


    Jealousy red through Jason and he clenched his hand around the steering wheel, turning his knuckles white.


    Why would Ryan spend such an amount on Lora when they had just met? He could have bought that dress for his fiancee...


    Jason had noticed that Ryan paid too much attention to Lora and he seemed to get jealous each time he saw them together. On the other hand, Lora seemed to be purposely avoiding Ryan. She also seemed to hate him for some reason.


    Jason''s frown deepened as he thought, ''Could Lora and Ryan have known each other before?''


    That was the only exnation for Ryan and Lora''s actions.


    Jason knew Lora wasn''t in love with him, but since she was willing to date him, it meant she was willing to try and fall in love with him.


    However, he had a hunch that he couldn''t fully grasp her heart if he didn''t deal with her rtionship with Ryan.


    There was something going on and he needed to find out what.


    He took out a phone and called someone, asking, "How far with what I asked you?"


    "Boss, it''s hard to find out things about Ryan Kingsley. No one is willing to speak," the person answered on the phone. Jason clenched his jaw. He ordered, "I want you to investigate if Ryan had anything to do with Lora Davis in the past." "Ok, boss... although I found out something, I don''t know if it''s something you wish to know," the man said on the phone.


    "What is it? Speak. I told you I wanted to know everything about Ryan Kingsley," Jason ordered.


    "His wife died... he didn''t divorce her for Ivy Williams. That''s all I know for now," the man reported.


    Jason furrowed his eyebrows. He instructed, "Find out who his wife was."


    ...


    On the other hand, Bianca chugged down her umpteenth bottle of beer. She hupped and nced at the man seated next to her before slurring, "M-O-R-E.... I want more." Adan chuckled, holding Bianca''s wrist when she reached for another beer bottle. He said, "You''ve had enough. You''re drunk."


    "I''m not drunk!" Bianca stated, pouting.


    The two of them had gone to the club after leaving the party to have a few drinks and Bianca ended up drinking more than she could handle.


    Adan studied Bianca. He leaned in close and asked in a low voice, "Bianca, that friend of yours, how long have you known her?"Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!


    Bianca squinted her eyes at Adan. She pointed at him and said, "Why are you asking again? I already told you."


    Adan frowned and said in his mind, ''Isn''t she drunk? How is she able to remember everything?''


    Fishing for information was harder than he thought... Bianca seemed to be guarded against him despite her drunken state.


    He smiled and replied, "I know... I just want to know more about her. You two seem close for someone you just met recently. It''s almost as if you''ve known each other your whole lives."


    Bianca nced at Adan and narrowed her eyes. Sheughed and said, "I see... you''ve fallen for her too, right?"


    "No... she''s not my type," Adan grinned. He grabbed Bianca''s chin and raised her head. "I''m just curious."


    Bianca stared into Adan''s eyes. She could telkthat he was trying to get information from her about Lora. Did he purposely make her drunk fo make her spill her friend''s secret?


    "You-Argh," Bianca groaned and ended up vomiting on Adan''s shirt.


    "Fuck," Adan cussed, wrinkling his nose as Bianca continued to vomit on him.


    "Sorry- Argh!" Bianca vomited again and this time, Adan felt frustrated. He was now covered in vomit and smelling of beer.


    ''The things I would do for a friend...'' he said in his mind before taking off his shirt.


    He carried Bianca who seemed to have passed out and took her to his penthouse.


    Since he didn''t know where she


    stayed, he decided to let her sleep at his house. He ced her in his bed, his eyes falling on the phone that he


    had carried for her.


    A thought urred to him and he took advantage of Bianca''s drunkenness to install a spy app on Bianca''s phone.


    Looking at her, he whispered, "I''m sorry but I have no choice. This is the only way I can help my friend. I need to find out who Lora really is."


    He smiled when the spy app was sessfully installed on Bianca''s phone. This way, he would receive every message that Bianca would receive.


    The next morning, Bianca opened her eyes and a splitting headache hit her from nowhere. She groaned, closing her eyes and massaging her temples. "Ah... I feel sick. I''ll never take alcohol again," she groaned.


    "That''s what they all say," a deep voice resonated in the room, causing Bianca to spring up from the bed.


    Her eyes widened when she saw Adan in nothing but a white robe. She looked around and realised she was in a different room.


    Her heart raced when she realised she was in Adan''s bed. Did something happen between themst night?


    Her mind reeled with several thoughts.


    "How dare you? How could you sleep with me in my drunken state?" She yelled at Adan, looking at him usingly.


    Adan nced at Bianca, feeling amused that she thought they slept together. Couldn''t she tell?


    He chuckled but he didn''t correct her, letting her believe that something had happened between them. Things were getting interesting...

 Chapter 53~ Explaining

    Lora rushed to work, wanting to get ready for an important meeting with a client.


    However, when she stepped into the office building, she felt like her employees were looking at her funny.


    "Miss Davis," Hannah rushed towards Lora with her tablet. "Have you checked the tabloids today? There''s news about you and Mr Kingsley."


    Lora frowned and mused. ''Why would there be news about me and Ryan?''


    She took the tablet from her assistant and went through the article.


    Sure enough, everyone was talking about Lora and Ryan. A picture of when Lora and Ryan were dancing was trending on the inte. Ryan held her close and she looked up into his eyes. From the angle that the photo was taken, it looked like she was looking at him lovingly.


    The two looked like a couple in that intimate position. Ryan''s arms were wrapped around Lora''s waist, his eyes never leaving her frame. It was like he was looking at the most beautiful thing in the world.


    Lora furrowed her eyebrows as she scrolled down to read the headlines.


    [Sparks fly at the LAN''s Luxurious Jewelryunch party as Ryan Kingsley and Lora Davis take to the dance floor.]


    [Ryan Kingsley and Lora Davis showcase their explosive chemistry.]


    "What is wrong with these people? So much happenedst night and this was all they picked out to publish?" Lora hissed, anger ring through her.


    "The media houses publish news that they feel will give them numbers and make them money," Hannah remarked.


    Lora scoffed, going through thements. There were those who shipped Lora and Ryan while others scolded them for flirting in front of their partners. "They look good together... I think these two are in the wrong rtionships. They should swap with Ivy and Jason."


    "I''m team Loran all the way! It''s abo of Lora and Ryan. So cute!"


    "No, this is not right. Their partners were watching and they were holding each other so closely. I feel sorry for Ivy and Jason. #JuscticeforlvyandJason." "Wait... does this mean Ryan will not marry Ivy anymore? Just look at how he was looking at Lora. He must be in love with her!"


    "Ryan has chemistry with Lora and not Ivy. Ivy seems to be forcing things. Ryan and Lora are a good match."


    Lora couldn''t read anymore, her jaw clenched from anger. She nced at Hannah and instructed, "Have all the news taken down. Now." "Yes, Ma''am," Hannah responded.


    When Lora got to her office, she thought about thements that people were making about Jason and how this news would affect him. They were right. She was in a rtionship with him now, and her trending with another man was not good.


    Taking her phone, she dialled Jason''s line.


    "Hey, Lora," Jason''s calm voice echoed through the phone.


    Hearing how calm he was, Lora couldn''t help but feel guilty.


    "Can we meet during lunch today? There''s something I want to tell you," Lora suggested.


    "Sure, I''m always avable for you," Jason responded.


    When the call cut, Lora''s heart waspletely filled with guilt. Jason didn''t even question her about the trending news or ask her for an exnation. He was too nice for his own good.


    Later during lunch time, Jason met Lora at a restaurant for lunch.


    It was a private ce, away from prying eyes. Since there was another scandal, everyone''s eyes would be on them.


    They sat quietly for some time until Lora nced at Jason apologetically. She took in a deep breath and said, "I''m sure you saw the news today."


    Jason nodded and replied, "Yes, I saw it."


    Guilt twisted Lora''s heart. She


    remarked, "I''m sorry about that scandal. hope it doesn''t make you feel like there''s something going on between Ryan and I. I don''t know how they made an innocent dance into something big that has blown out of proportion."


    Silence fell over them.


    It took a few seconds for Jason to respond. He looked into Lora''s eyes and asked, "Do you have feelings for Ryan?"


    Lora''s eyes widened to the size of dinner tes. That question made her feel like cold water had been poured down her head.


    Her heart raced as she quickly eximed, "No, I don''t!"


    Jason studied Lora for a moment, his face was unreadable and Lora couldn''t tell what he was thinking.


    He sighed and remarked, "I don''t me you for the news. It''s not your fault. Besides, you danced with Ryan because he picked your number."


    Lora nodded, feeling relieved. She said, "You''re right. I just feel bad about what everyone is saying about you on the inte. You don''t deserve that when you''ve been so good to me, Jay."T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    "Don''t worry about it... I don''t care


    about what other people say as long


    as I know you''re with me and not him," Jason replied, looking at Lora "Although I don''t understand Ryan Kingsley''s obsession with you... but it might be because you''re so beautiful and one of a kind. I would be obsessed too if you weren''t mine."


    Lora forced a smile and thought, ''Ryan''s obsessed because I look like his dead wife, that''s all. Nothing special.''


    Jason reached forward and brushed


    away a strand of hair that had


    framed Lora''s face. He said softly,


    love you, Lora... and I''m willing to


    wait for you to love me back the same. I hope to marry you one day and I''ll be a great father to your


    kids."


    As he said this, he leaned over, aiming for Lora''s lips. However, Ryan''s face suddenly shed through Lora''s mind and with it, she recalled his kiss.


    Before she could tell what was happening, her body moved before she could stop herself. She tilted her head to the side, avoiding the kiss and Jason ended up awkwardly kissing her cheek. Jason pulled back, hurt flickering through his eyes and a lump formed in Lora''s throat.

 Chapter 54~ Ivys parents

    "Sir, Miss Davis'' tech team are trying to take down the news," Lawrence reported to Ryan.


    Ryan looked up from where he sat at his desk in his office. He asked, "How much did the news spread? Is it trending?"


    "The news about your possible affair with Miss Davis has gone viral. I think almost everyone has seen the news, sir," Lawrence replied.


    Ryan smirked. That''s just what he wanted. He was the driving force behind the trending news this time, wanting people to talk about him and Lora.


    For some reason, he liked it when people said he and Lora were a good match. He wanted the news to keep spreading until all traces of Jason were removed.


    However, since Lora wanted to take down the news, Ryan was worried she would find out about his involvement and get angry.


    Looking at Lawrence, he instructed, "Take down the news. My n has already worked."


    Ryan didn''t like how Lora''s name was being constantly associated with Jason on the inte. However, now that no one was talking about them and talking about him and Lora instead, he felt a certain kind of joy. Lawrence smiled when he saw his boss smiling. He nodded and said, "I''ll give them a go-ahead, sir."


    Ryan was in a good mood. He sat back in his chair and continued to read thements about him and Lora, a small smile crossing his lips.


    However, his happiness was short-lived as he suddenly received unexpected visitors in his office.


    "Ryan, it''s been so long since you saw this old man. I had returned a few weeks ago but you never came to visit me. So, today, I dragged my daughter to bring me to you," the man who had just entered Ryan''s office said.


    Ryan furrowed his eyebrows. Did this family think this was theirpany and they coulde whenever they pleased?


    The man who had entered the office was Ivy''s father, David Williams. He was apanied by his wife, Celine Williams, who was pushing Ivy''s wheelchair.


    "Mr Williams, good to see you," Ryan responded. He got to his feet and led the family to the visitor''s lounge in his office before adding, "I''ve been busy with work."


    David scoffed. He spat, "Busy? Or that''s just your excuse not to marry my daughter? Ryan, it''s been years since my daughter has been by your side, do you n to keep her without marrying her?"


    Ryan was about to respond but Celine beat him to it. She remarked, "Ivy had been waiting for you all this while, Ryan. I think it''s time you married her... this will also be good for our families. After all, you two are both from wealthy families. Imagine what your union will do to the stocks once you get married?"


    Ryan clenched his hands into fists. The William couple was obviously there to pressure him into marrying Ivy.


    At the same time, Ivy studied Ryan''s expression. She looked at her


    parents and said, "Mom, Dad, please


    ???:


    don''t put pressure on Ryan. He knows what he''s doing. We will get married soon since he had


    announced to make our


    nov


    engagement official. He has his own n-"


    "You''re too good, Ivy. What do you mean he has his own n? He hasn''t made a move to marry you all this time, you still think he has his own n? In my opinion, I think he''s stalling and doesn''t want to marry you at all," Celine remarked.


    Anger shed through David''s eyes as he red at Ryan. He questioned, "Is that true, Ryan? Are you just ying with my daughter and don''t intend to marry her? Have you forgotten how she ended up in a wheelchair in the first ce?" "Dad!" Ivy gasped, her eyes widening at her father''s remark. "That''s not necessary... I don''t want Ryan to marry me because my legs got hurt when I saved him."


    "Then, do you want him to leave you when you''re like this? Who will marry you? He should take responsibility since he''s the cause of all this!" David spat, his nostrils ring.Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    Ryan fell silent at the reminder. He nced at Ivy''s legs and aplicated feeling crept into him.


    Yes... Ivy''s legs were like that because of him.


    Years back, he was kidnapped by a business opponent. Although the memories were foggy and the ce was pitch-ck, he remembered being with a woman in the dark ce.


    Sheforted him when he was being tortured and he could still remember her cries whenever those thugs beat him up.


    The beatings became too much that he ended up slipping in and out of consciousness. However, one day, the woman suddenly flung her body at him when the thugs tried to break his legs.


    When he woke up weekster, he realised he had been rescued and Ivy was by his side. She was in a wheelchair and exined how she couldn''t use her legs anymore since they had been crushed when she threw her body in front of him to save him.


    When Ryan was discharged, Ivy


    broke up with Ryan and left the


    country to treat her legs. Ryan was devastated and ended up having a one-night stand with Larisa Be during a drunken night and since his grandfather was urging him to get married, he ended up marrying Larisa.


    Unfortunately, Ivy returned with sad news three yearster. Her legs couldn''t be treated and there was a possibility that she would spend the rest of her life in a wheelchair.


    Thus, Ryan was filled with guilt. Ivy had said she was going to meet him that day and ended up being kidnapped as well... if it wasn''t for him, she wouldn''t have lost the ability to use her legs.


    He felt responsible for her because of this...


    "Dad, I want Ryan to marry me because he loves me-"


    "The engagement ceremony will go on as promised. In two weeks, we will make things official," Ryan interrupted coldly.

 Chapter 55~ Older version

    Charles pped the entertainment magazine he was reading on the table in frustration. He nced at the family''s butler, Arnold Miller, and said, "So Ryan''s engagement ceremony has been set to happen in two weeks. What is wrong with this boy?" Arnold chuckled, his wrinkles moving at the action. He was standing beside Charles in his study, ready to serve him at any moment. Looking at Charles, he replied, "What do you mean by boy, Sir? Ryan is a fully grown thirty-three-year-old man." "Exactly! He''s thirty-three! But he acts like he just hit puberty," Charles scoffed, shaking his head. "I don''t understand... he seemed more interested in the youngdy of the Davis family, Lora Davis. I saw how he couldn''t stop looking at her at the party... so what is this now? Why is he going through with the engagement to Ivy? I''m pretty sure he doesn''t love her."


    "The young man must have his own reasons. Perhaps you should let him do what he wants? Thest time you interfered and forced him to marry, things turned out to be a disaster," Arnold reasoned.


    He had been working for the Kingsley family for so many years and sometimes served as a voice of reason for Charles.


    However, the old man didn''t want to listen. He remarked, "I would have let him be if he decided to marry a sweetdy like Lora. Not that two-faced woman who only has a pretty face. I''m very sure this is another ruse from Ivy Williams. If Ryan wanted to marry her, he would have done so the moment Larisa died."


    Arnold nced at Charles and asked, "So, what do you n to do? Are you going to stop him?"


    "Unfortunately, the fool inherited the stubborn genes from me," Charles remarked and then a thought urred to him. "You know what? Get the car ready, I''ll go and visit Lora. There''s just something about her that I quite can''t figure out yet."


    He had been suspicious of Lora''s identity. The young woman seemed to have a certain kind of hatred for her grandson. Perhaps there was more to that than meets the eye. "Sure, I''ll let the driver know," Arnold replied.


    A little whileter, Charles walked into the Davis and Co. building. He approached the receptionist and remarked, "Hello, dear. I would like to meet Miss Lora Davis, please." "Do you have an appointment, Sir?" The receptionist asked cautiously.


    Charles'' aura was majestic and she could tell he wasn''t an ordinary person despite his old age.


    Charles smiled and replied, "No, but let her know that the Chairman of the Kingsley Group is here and I would like to discuss a personal project with her."


    The receptionist''s eyes widened into saucers. She quickly excused herself and dialled a number on her telephone.T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    A few minutester, she nced at Charles with an apologetic look. She said, "Unfortunately, Miss Davis is not in thepany at the moment and she won''t be returning anytime soon." Charles frowned. Was Lora trying to avoid him?


    Instead of leaving, Charles went to the cafe near thepany, hoping to catch Lora when she returned. He ordered a cup of rose tea and sat by the window, his mind reeling with thoughts.


    ...


    On the other hand, Jack Davis picked up the twins, E and Ethan from school since it was half-day. On the way, they sat with him in the backseat of the car.


    E was the first to say, "Granpa, can you take us to yourpany? We want to see Mommy."


    Ethan nodded and added, "Yes, I would like to see where Mommy works."


    Jack chuckled and ruffled Ethan''s hair before replying, "Your Mommy is very busy."


    "We won''t disturb her, Grandpa. We promise!" E stated. "We will be good and not cause trouble. Can you take us with you, please?"


    Jack relented and sighed. He looked at the kids and smiled. "Ok, Grandpa will take you to Mommy''s workce."


    "Yay! Grandpa is the best!" E squeaked.


    Jack Davis'' convoy of cars stopped just in front of the office building. He helped the twins out of the car and led them into thepany. "Wow! This ce is so cool!" E squealed, looking around in awe.


    "Sir, are those your children?" One of the employees asked.


    "Don''t let my wife hear you say that when both of us are way past our childbearing years," Jackughed. "These are my grandchildren, E and Ethan. The future heirs of Davis & Co."


    "Wow, they are so beautiful!" Another employee couldn''t help but say.


    "Thank you, they take after me," Jack said proudly.


    When his assistant approached him, Jack nced at him and said, "I want you to look after my


    grandchildren and take them around thepany. They have security guards but I want to be extra careful... I just need to see a few old


    clients in the conference room."


    The moment the twins were left with the assistant, the employees couldn''t help but fawn over them. They were so cute.


    "I didn''t know Miss Davis had children. The little girl looks so much like her. She''s not married though... who''s the father?" Someone remarked in a whisper.


    "Does that matter? What matters is that these kids were born with a golden spoon in their mouths," another replied.


    The assistant took the twins around thepany and everyone seemed to fall in love with them. They were polite, kind and lively.


    Suddenly, E grabbed Ethan''s shirt and said, "I want a cake."


    "E, not now. Mommy said you shouldn''t eat too many sweet things," Ethan replied.


    E pouted. She said, "It''s just a little piece of cake. Mommy said that''s ok."


    Ethan sighed. He wasn''t a fan of sweet things like his sister, but he could do anything for her. He looked at the assistant and asked him to take them to the cafe downstairs.


    On their way, E excitedly ran


    ahead while the assistant and Ethan followed closely. E was the first to rush into the cafe but she ended up bumping into an old man before falling on the floor.


    Ethan rushed to help his sister up and anxiously asked, "Are you ok, E?"


    E nodded and then Ethan turned to the old man to apologise.


    "I''m sorry, Sir-"


    However, the moment he raised his head to look at the old man, Ethan and the old man gasped, staring at each other in shock.


    Ethan''s eyes grew wide and his jaw dropped to the floor. Why did this man look like a much older version of himself?

 Chapter 56~ An agreement

    Charles Kingsley''s eyes rounded in shock. When he saw the convoy of cars in front of the office building, he thought Lora had returned and wanted to go and meet her. However, he ended up bumping into two adorable, squishy kids that made his old heart melt instantly.


    ''Am I dreaming?'' He asked in his mind, his heart pounding hard in his chest.


    He hade to see Lora but he didn''t expect to see two children who looked like Ryan and Lora. What was going on?


    Could these kids be...?


    Charles'' heart pounded so hard he could hear it in his ears.


    He took in a shuddering breath, his hands trembling as he tried to fathom what he could see with his own eyes.


    Just as Charles kept looking at the twins, the twins were staring at him curiously too.


    E whispered in her brother''s ears, "Ethan, is this man our grandpa? He looks like Daddy and you."


    Ethan''s eyebrows were furrowed in deep thought as he studied Charles'' face. Since they shared the same face, could he really be their Grandpa? Did it mean they had two grandpas?


    Charles came back to his senses and grinned. He leaned over a little and asked, "Hello, little ones."


    "Hello," Ethan and E responded, their eyes wide with curiosity.


    When Charles heard their voices, he felt a sense of happiness wash over him. These children felt so familiar and he had an inkling of who they belonged to. Not only did the boy look like a younger version of Ryan, but also, the little girl resembled Lora so much. "Who''s your mother?" He couldn''t help but ask and then his eyes lit up. "Is it Lora Davis?"


    Ethan looked into Charles'' eyes as if he was searching for something. When he realised the old man had no malice and only held excitement and warmth in his eyes, he admitted, "Yes, Lora Davis is our mother. And who are you, old man?" Charles'' eyebrows hiked up and almost disappeared into his hairline. He couldn''t believe his ears. Lora Davis had kids who looked like herself and Ryan... it could only mean one thing.


    Lora is Larisa. Larisa had been alive all along! She never died and gave birth to his great-grandchildren!


    Ryan was already a father and that fool was none the wiser.


    "Larisa... oh my God! It''s a miracle! She''s alive!" Charles eximed as he crouched down and held the twins'' hands. "I''m a great-grandpa! Haha!"


    E blinked her eyes in confusion. She tilted her head and asked, "Who''s Larisa?"


    Charles came back to his senses when he realised the kids didn''t know about Lora''s past. He dismissed the question by holding the twins'' hands tighter, but gently. He remarked, "I''m Charles Kingsley. Your father''s Grandpa!" "Daddy has a Grandpa?" E asked happily. She pulled her hand away from Charles'' hand and hugged him. "Nice to meet you Great Grandpa!"


    Charles couldn''t help it. When E


    hugged him, his heart felt full. Whenst did he feel like this? It was when his grandchildren were born... he was so overwhelmed with joy at that time he thought he would have a heart attack.


    This was exactly how he was feeling at the moment. Ryan and Larisa had given him grandkids! What a double blessing!


    He nced at Ethan who was calm and smiled. "I can''t believe I have grandkids. Let me call your father now. He needs to know that he''s a father!"


    Charles took out his phone and was about to dial Ryan''s number before Ethan grabbed his hand to stop him. The young boy shook his head and eximed, "No, you can''t tell him!"


    Charles furrowed his eyebrows in


    confusion. He looked at the twins as


    well as the assistant who was patiently waiting for them to finish their conversation before asking "Why don''t you want me to tell him? Your father will be happy to


    you exist! This is good now


    and I


    can''t hide it from him."


    "He doesn''t deserve to know," Ethan remarked, his eyes cold.


    Their stupid father had set his engagement to the evil woman to happen in two weeks. Why should they recognise him as their father? It seemed he loved that evil woman more than he loved his own family. Charles'' heart sank when he saw the coldness on Ethan''s face. The boy was only five but he oozed a powerful aura that made him seem mature.


    "Are you angry at your father?" Charles asked, his heart breaking for the children.


    ''They must have heard about Ryan and Ivy,'' Charles mused.


    "Huh!" Ethan scoffed. "He doesn''t


    deserve my anger. I don''t want him to know


    nowout us yet... at least not


    now. Mommy is still very angry at him and he hasn''t asked for forgiveness yet... and also, Mommy hasn''t agreed for us to recognise him as our father."


    Charles'' eyes widened slightly. Ethan had the intelligence of an adult. He nced at E who said, "I don''t mind meeting Daddy. But I''ll wait like Ethan says." Ethan rolled his eyes. This little sister of his was easy to get.


    Silence fell over them.


    Charles sighed and remarked, "I understand."Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    He didn''t really understand but he could somehow put himself in Lora''s shoes. For her to fake her death and hide the kids, meant what Ryan did to her was unforgivable.


    It wasn''t also the right time to discuss this issue since Ryan was still entangled with Ivy Williams, the venomous woman.


    "I won''t tell your father for now," Charles said, smiling at the twins. "But I deserve to talk to my favorite grandkids!"


    Ethan smiled, liking Charles already. He replied, "No problem. Let''s exchange numbers and keep in touch." Charles nodded and remarked, "It will be our little secret."


    The three of them nced at each other before giggling at their agreement.

 Chapter 57~ Couple rings

    "Ryan, thank you for doing this with me," Ivy remarked as Ryan pushed her wheelchair into a gemstone boutique. "I thought you were being forced to marry me but seeing you apany me here gives me hope.''


    "Can you do your business fast, I have things to do," Ryan replied, his jaw tight.


    He wanted to be anywhere but there... shopping for rare stones that would be used for their engagement jewelry with Ivy made him feel empty.


    Why was he even doing this? Was it worth it?


    Was this really the solution?


    Did he want to marry Ivy and live in a loveless marriage again?


    Would he be able to forget about Ivy''s real face? To be honest, when she stole Lora''s work and used Lora of giarism, Ivy lost her image in Ryan''s eyes.


    She might have gotten hurt while saving him, but was marrying her really the best way to repay her for her legs?


    "Ryan, what do you think of this rare pink stone? I think it would look good on my engagement ring," Ivy''s voice brought Ryan back to the present.


    Hezily nced at the stone glittering under soft lighting and nodded. "It''s ok."


    Ivy bit her lower up, stopping herself from throwing a tantrum. She could tell that Ryan was only there physically, his mind, soul and heart were somewhere else.


    He showed no interest in their engagement ceremony. It was like he wasn''t a part of it.


    Forcing a smile, she said, "I''ll pick this one and I''ll choose a blue one for you. I want our engagement rings to be unique. I''ll design them myself."


    Although she couldn''t make good designs that were market-worthy, she could still create something that she would wear for her engagement. She wanted to surprise Ryan and possibly make him forget about the giarism incident.


    Ivy smiled at the thought but her smile faltered when she saw Lora and Jason at the other side of the store.


    ''What are those two doing here?'' She thought in her mind, her jaw clenching tightly.


    Ivy looked up at Ryan and sure enough, she found him looking at Lora and Jason too. It seemed he had just noticed them too.


    The longing look on his face made Ivy clench the arm of her wheelchair tightly. ''I''ll never let you reunite with Larisa, Ryan. Never.''


    She suddenly eximed, "Oh, look, Ryan! It''s Lora and Jason! Let''s go and say hi."


    Ivy wheeled herself closer to Lora and Jason. When they noticed her, she smiled and said, "Lora, good to see you here. I didn''t expect to see you and your boyfriend shopping for rare stones like Ryan and I. Are you trying to get rare stones to make couple rings too?" Lora furrowed her eyebrows. What did this troublemaker want?


    Just as Ryan approached them, Ivy didn''t wait for Lora''s response. She grabbed Ryan''s hand and uttered, "Ryan and I had finally set a date for the engagement ceremony. We are here to get materials for our engagement rings." Lora rolled her eyes. She was bored of Ivy''s antics, so she didn''t respond.


    "I''ll send you an invitation card. You wille, won''t you? After all, our fathers are close friends. I expect you toe and support me and maybe you can be my bridesmaid on my wedding," Ivy remarked with an air of triumph.


    Lora furrowed her eyebrows. She had already cut ties with Ryan and didn''t want anything to do with him. As she was about to refuse Ivy''s invitation, Jason''s voice beat her to it.


    "Thank you for the invite. We will be sure to attend as a couple," Jason said, his eyes turning to Ryan challengingly.Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!


    Ryan''s jaw tightened and his stomach churned from anger.


    The spark of jealousy in Ryan''s eyes


    fueled Jason''s satisfaction. He wrapped an arm around Lora''s waist before pecking her cheek and saying, "I''m sorry I epted on your behalf, my love but it''s not bad for us to attend... they''ve invited us after alp"


    Ivy smirked and uttered, "Thank you for epting. By the way, did you two reallye to get rare stones for couple jewelry?"


    Jason smiled and looked at Lora before replying, "No... I''m here to choose a rare stone for my piece of male jewelry that Miss L designed specifically for me." Ryan clenched his jaw, his teeth grinding as jealousy red through him.


    It seemed Lora was serious about Jason seeing that she took time to design jewelry for him.


    When Ivy looked at Ryan and saw his angry face, anger shed through her eyes.


    Looking at Lora and Jason, she remarked, "That''s so sweet of you, Lora. You must love Jason so much. I''m sure you two will get engaged soon, am I right?" Jason nodded and replied, "Of course. I n to start a future with Lora very soon."


    The air around them turned colder than a block of ice as Ryan red at Jason like he wanted to punch him in the face.


    "That''s awesome, I hope we get an invitation to your events too," Ivy remarked excitedly.


    Lora rolled her eyes, tired of Ivy and her schemes. She didn''t want to continue conversing with them, so she said, "Excuse me, I need to use the restroom."


    "I''lle with you-"


    "No... it''s fine. I''ll find you," Lora told Jason, smiling at him before leaving.


    When Lora came out of the restroom, she almost jumped when she saw Ryan in the hallway. He had his back against the wall with his hands in his pockets. She furrowed her eyebrows and questioned, "What are you doing here? Did you follow me here?"


    Ryan turned to face Lora, a thousand emotions swirling in his eyes. He admitted, "Yes. I followed you here."


    "Why?" Lora arched an eyebrow. She couldn''t understand Ryan. They were strangers, so he shouldn''t pay this much attention to her.


    Did he know who she was?


    "The engagement ceremony... I''m only doing that because I feel responsible for Ivy," Ryan remarked, his eyebrows knitting in confusion. He didn''t know know why but he felt the need to exin to Lora.


    Lora scoffed and asked, "How is that any of my business, Mr Kingsley? I don''t care what you do and I have no reason to."


    Ryan''s jaw tightened in frustration. He nced at Lora and questioned, "Are you really going to marry Jason?"


    "Yes, I am," Lora replied, raising her chin defiantly. "I love him very much."


    Those words felt like a knife to Ryan''s chest, twisting deeper with each second.


    It hurt like hell.

 Chapter 58~ Regret

    Ryan nced at Lora, a million emotions swirling in his eyes. He swallowed the lump in his throat and said in a low voice, "I don''t believe you."


    Lora scoffed and replied, "You don''t need to. Jason is the man I love and chose to marry."


    Ryan fell silent, the lump in his throat growing bigger. He looked at Lora and took a step forward, getting closer to her.


    He could feel his heart racing in his chest, Lora''s scent seeping into his nostrils the closer he got.


    "I don''t believe it because I can''t see it in your eyes, Lora. You see, you don''t look like someone who''s in love right now," Ryan said in a low velvety voice.


    Lora sneered and looked up at Ryan. She questioned, "Who are you to say that? What right do you have to im I don''t love the man I''m dating?"


    "I may not have the right but I can prove it," Ryan said and before Lora could tell what was happening, he held the back of her neck before capturing her lips in a passionate kiss.


    Lora froze, her heart pounding like a galloping horse as Ryan''s lips moved smoothly against her lips. He was gentle this time, careful even. It was like he was pouring his longing and emotions into the kiss, causing Lora''s breath to hitch. For a moment, Lora''s mind felt hazy, unable to focus on anything. The warmth and the passionate way that Ryan kissed her stirred something within her. Something dangerous and it sent rm bells ringing in her head.


    She came back to her senses and her eyes widened when she realised what had happened. Ryan kissed her and without realising, she had slightly kissed him back.


    ''Oh my God! What am I doing?'' Lora mused in horror.


    Just before she could push Ryan away, he pulled back on his own and licked his lips, a satisfied smirk ying on his lips. He looked at Lora and asked huskily, "If you really loved Jason, then why did you kiss me back just now?" "Ryan you-" Lora hissed, her blood boiling. Her face turned red from embarrassment and anger. "You''re such a jerk!"


    She red at Ryan before walking away, her heart pounding rapidly in her chest.


    Ryan let out a low chuckle. He raised his hand and swiped his thumb over his lower lip, still feeling Lora''s lips on his.


    Why did he feel so strongly for Lora? Whenever he saw her, he couldn''t help himself. He always wanted to hold her... kiss her. He also hated seeing her with another man and it killed him with jealousy.


    He thought about how Lora was making male jewelry for Jason and his heart clenched with jealousy. The sight of Jason annoyed Ryan for some reason. He didn''t know why but he kept seeing a familiar face in him. Did he know him from somewhere?


    Meanwhile, Lora bumped into Ivy


    and Jason who seemed to have followed them. Her heart skipped a beat and she instinctively looked back to see whether they had seen anything or not.  en


    A guilty feeling crept into her as she nced at Jason and suggested, "I think I''m done here. Let''s go."


    Jason''s eyes fell on Lora''s lips and noticed how her pink lipstick was smudged. He swallowed empty air and clenched his hands into fists.


    When he saw Ryan follow after Lora earlier, he had an inkling that thetter was up to something. He didn''t expect him to kiss her.


    Although Jason''s blood was boiling, he forced a smile and held Lora''s hand, saying, "We cane backter if you still need to go around."


    Just as he said that, Ryan appeared behind Lora. His lips had faint pink lipstick smudged all over them, more evidence of what had transpired between him and Lora.


    He smirked and nced at Jason smugly, his heart content at the look on Jason''s face.


    Jason saw this and didn''t say anything. He pulled Lora to his side and said, "We are leaving now. I hope you find what you were looking for and I''m wishing you a happy marriage."


    When he turned and led Lora away, Ryan''s gaze followed them, his eyes darkening slightly. Did he have to mention that damned marriage at this moment?


    At the same time, Ivy noticed the faint pink lipstick on Ryan''s lips and recalled how Lora''s lipstick was smudged. A re of anger rushed through her heart.


    ''I hate you, Lora! Ryan still loves you even though he just met you!'' She said in her mind.


    Ivy couldn''t fathom how Ryan could


    be attracted to Lora even though he couldn''t forget his ex-wife. Could it be because she''s Larisa and his body remembers her? Or maybe he was interested in her because she had Larisa''s face?


    It didn''t matter anyway... Ryan wasn''t supposed to love anyone else but her However, Ivy knew she had lost his love a long time ago. Ever since L


    Larisa came into Ryan''s life,


    everything changed.


    Ryan didn''t notice Ivy''s vicious expression, his attention was fixed on Lora and Jason as they left the area, his eyes narrowing in deep thought.Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    Seeing Lora leave with another man left a bitter taste in his mouth. He felt like he had lost something more precious than gold.


    A sudden indescribable feeling of regret crept into him as he nced at Lora''s back.

 Chapter 59~ A lesson

    There was an air of awkwardness between Lora and Jason on their way back.


    Lora had noticed her lipstick was smudged when she was about to get into the car. She had seen her reflection in the window and her heart raced erratically.


    A re of guilt rushed through her. What would Jason think of her now?


    Clearing her throat, she nced at Jason who was focusing on the road and asked, "Why are you not saying anything?"


    Jason arched and eyebrow at Lora and questioned, "About what?"


    The words got stuck in Lora''s throat. How was she supposed to ask her boyfriend why he wasn''t confronting her when he had noticed that another man had kissed her? She furrowed her eyebrows and replied, "Actually, I didn''t know Ryan would follow me to the restroom. I-"


    "You don''t need to exin anything to me, Lora," Jason said, interrupting Lora''s words. "I trust you. If something happened, then it could only be Ryan Kingsley''s fault."


    Lora bit her lower lip as guiltpletely filled her heart. What did she do to deserve someone like Jason? He was so kind and nice to her.


    She felt Jason''s hand on hers and looked up at him.


    Jason smiled and added, "I don''t care what Ryan does. What I care about is what is in your heart. Do you want to be with him? Even though he''s with the woman who giarised your work?" "Never," Lora replied without hesitation.


    Jason''s words made her came back to her senses. What was she thinking back there when she let Ryan kiss her and kissed him back? Did his flirting make her forget who he really was? ''Lora, never forget how he saved Ivy and left you to die. He will always love her and put her first,'' Lora told herself in her mind.Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!


    Jason smiled at Lora and remarked, "See? I have nothing to worry about."


    Lora felt relieved. That''s right. Ryan was from her past and he should remain there.


    She looked at Jason and promised, "I''ll stay away from Ryan and respect our rtionship from now on."


    They both didn''t mention the kiss but Lora still felt guilty about it. Later on when Jason took her home, she looked at him and offered, "Would you like toe up? The twins miss you." Jason''s eyes widened slightly. He asked, "Are you serious?"


    Lora nodded and replied, "We are a couple now. I don''t see why you shouldn''te to my house."


    Jason''s heart raced excitedly. He could see that his rtionship with Lora was changing slowly.


    "I''ll be happy to..." He trailed, his eyes falling on the female figure standing outside the building. "Looks like Bianca is here."


    Lora followed Jason''s gaze and sure enough, Bianca who was standing outside the building waved at her.


    "Oh no... I''m sorry. I don''t think I can invite you up today," Lora remarked, biting her lower lip.


    Jason sighed and said, "It''s ok. There''s always next time. Have fun chatting with your friend."


    Lora smiled at Jason apologetically and left the car. She approached her friend and frowned when she saw her face before questioning, "What have you been up to and why do you look like a panda?" Bianca pouted and said, "I have dark circles because I couldn''t sleep. Let''s talk about it inside... I hope I didn''t disturb your time with Jason. He looked like he wanted to go into your house."


    Lora shook her head. "No, you didn''t.


    I want to know what happened to you. I haven''t seen you since theunch party and you didn''t exin how you became one of the models. Since when are you working with the Kingsley group?"


    Bianca had promised Lora that she wouldn''t work with the Kingsley group since Ryan had hurt Lora a lot in the past. So, Lora was surprised when she saw Bianca willingly modelling for Ryan''spany. Bianca sighed heavily and remarked, "It''s part of the reason I couldn''t sleep. I messed up."


    Lora led her friend into the house and after they greeted the kids, she took her to her bedroom.


    "Can you tell me what''s wrong and why you look like you''vemitted a crime?" Lora questioned worriedly.


    Bianca was acting strange. She looked like she felt guilty about something.


    "That''s because I didmit a crime!" Bianca eximed. "I slept with the enemy!"


    Lora arched an eyebrow. "The enemy? Are you talking about Adan?"


    Bianca nodded, her face falling. She replied, "I don''t know how it happened. He had invited me to theunch party and arranged for me to wear the centerpiece of the jewelry you designed. I wanted to surprise you, so I epted to model. Pater on, we went to the club, had some drinks and one thing led to another."


    Looking at her friend, she added, "I''m so sorry. I shouldn''t have gotten involved with your ex''s friend. Now I feel like a bad friend." Lora studied Bianca and a lightbulb went off in her head. She knew her well and her reaction meant she could be attracted to Adan. "You don''t have to feel guilty. You can date him if you want to," Lora remarked, not wanting her friend to miss out on a chance at love. She frowned and added, "However, you must know that Adan never sticks to one woman. I don''t know how it would work. Just be careful."


    Bianca smiled and said, "Why are you so sweet and kind? I can''t imagine not being your friend. Thank you for not ming me." She didn''t respond to Lora''s suggestion and Lora didn''tment on it, letting her friend digest her words.


    "Are you sure I didn''t disturb you and Jason? Maybe you had ns," Bianca remarked.


    Lora sighed heavily and it was Bianca''s turn to arch an eyebrow.


    "Spill the beans, girl," Bianca urged.


    Lora told Bianca what had happened earlier and thetter shook her head.


    "I don''t understand Ryan at all. Isn''t he in love with Ivy? Why is he all over you?" Bianca uttered.


    Lora shrugged. "I have no idea but I feel guilty about Jason. He doesn''t deserve this... even if I''ll never go back to Ryan, I don''t think my heart is ready to take in anyone either."


    At the same time, little feet walked away from Lora''s bedroom door before going back to the kids'' room.


    "Ethan, Daddy kissed Mommy again!" E eximed happily and Ethan frowned.


    E blinked when she saw Ethan''s expression. She asked, "Aren''t you happy?"


    "No. That man is still with that evil woman. Why is he kissing Mommy? It seems he only wants to hurt Mommy...I think it''s time we taught him a lesson," Ethan said angrily, his little face contorting in anger

 Chapter 60~ A hacker

    "Sir, there''s been a cyberattack on your personal assets!" Lawrence Scott, Ryan''s assistant, reported.


    Ryan furrowed his eyebrows. He had a question mark on his face as he said, "That''s not possible. My assets are well protected."


    "Clearly they are not, Sir. This hacker was able to log into the system and made you lose a hundred million dors. They''ve also hacked into your crypto portfolio and distributed one hundred thousand Bitcoin tokens to other traders," Lawrence exined. Ryan furrowed his eyebrows. He opened his portfolio and sure enough, his bitcoin had been tampered with. As he was assessing the impact of the attack, his screen suddenly blinked and a message popped up. [This is for hurting your wife.]


    ''My wife? Larisa?'' Ryan''s heart skipped a beat when he read the message.


    Did someone know Larisa and how she died six years ago? Was this their way of making him pay for not saving her?


    Ryan''s heart clenched with guilt and his stomach churned as the image of the warehouse going up in mes shed through his mind.


    "Sir, I''ve told the tech team to trace the IP address of the hacker. I''ll also report to the police immediately-"


    "No," Ryan remarked firmly. His jaw was tight as he tried to rein in his emotions. "Don''t call the police."


    Lawrence''s eyes widened. He hesitated and said, "B-But Sir... You''ve lost a lot of money-"


    "It''s fine. It''s just a few million dors. I''m a billionaire," Ryan remarked cockily, but the smirk couldn''t reach his eyes.


    Lawrence fell silent, seeing the pained look in Ryan''s eyes that he was trying to hide. ''Since when is the boss so generous?'' He mused.


    When Lawrence left, Ryanughed at himself mockingly. If there was someone out there wanting to make him pay for Larisa''s death, then so be it.


    After all, he really thought he could save her in time six years ago. However, he didn''t expect those thugs to blow up the ce before he could do so... Now he had to live with the guilt of watching his wife die in a fire. His mind suddenly drifted to Lora... if only she was Larisa, he would do anything to make up for the past.


    Meanwhile, at the study in the Kingsley mansion, Charles was on a video call with E and Ethan.


    "Grandpa, can we call you big grandpa?" E asked on the phone and Charlesughed heartily.


    "Of course, little one. You have two Grandpas and it could be confusing. So, you can call me big Grandpa!" Charles remarked, smiling from ear to ear.


    He was very happy to have an opportunity to meet his great-grandchildren and he wished everyone knew about them.


    Looking at the screen, he asked, "So, do you still not want me to tell your father about you?"


    Ethan scoffed and replied, "Not yet. Although I taught him a lesson, he still hasn''t apologised to Mommy. And he''s still with that other woman."


    Charles'' heart broke when he saw how angry Ethan was. As an adult, he knew the little boy was hurt by the situation they were in.


    He smiled and said, "I won''t tell him but I''ll make sure he apologises to your mother."T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    A little whileter, Ryan entered the Kingsley''s mansion where he had been staying the past few days to avoid Ivy.


    When he walked into the living room, he found his grandfather waiting for him. Arching an eyebrow, he asked, "Grandpa, why are you still awake? What did the doctor say about getting enough rest?" "Getting enough rest is not the problem here. Ryan, are you really going to make your engagement with Ivy official?" Charles questioned immediately.


    Ryan fell silent for a few seconds. He sighed and answered, "Yes, I will, Grandpa."


    "Why?" Charles asked, narrowing his eyes at Ryan. "She''s a vicious woman and I don''t want her as my granddaughter-inw. How can you fall in love with such a woman?"


    "It''s not like that, Grandpa. She can''t walk because of me. I have to take responsibility for her-"


    "Nonsense!" Charles yelled. "Larisa died because you neglected her. Why didn''t you take responsibility for her? She was your wife and yet you neglected her."


    Ryan''s eyes turned red. He hated being reminded of how he failed Larisa.


    "Are you kidding me? She''s dead! How am I supposed to take responsibility for her... I can''t even ask for forgiveness because she no longer exists in this world!" Ryan yelled through gritted teeth. Silence fell over them after those words.


    Charles nced at his grandson, his heart breaking at the anguished look on his face. He sighed heavily and asked, "Are you sure Larisa is dead? You just saw some ashes and e concluded that it was her... why didn''t you look for her?"


    Ryan clenched his hands into fists. Memories of how he secretly looked for Larisa shed through his mind No one apart from his best friend knew Ryan was in denial that Larisa was dead. So, he spent a lot of time searching for her...


    However, no matter how high or low he looked, he couldn''t find anything about Larisa or the thugs that had abducted her.


    In the end, he had to ept that she was gone. And it was his fault... that was why he did nothing when he found out about his condition a year ago.


    "Oh, now you can''t talk? Listen to me, if you really need to get engaged to someone, I would rather you choose Lora. After all, Lora and Larisa look alike," Charles added.


    Ryan raised his head sharply, frowning as he looked at his grandfather. He said, "Grandpa, please... just let it be."


    ''Marrying Lora?'' Ryan thought in his mind. Being around her gave him a sense of calm and peace... but he was a dead man inside who didn''t deserve happiness.


    Charles sighed heavily. He


    remarked, "I said I won''t force you to


    do what you don''t want to do. But hope you think about what''s best for you...you might lose your second chance at true love if you marry that wicked woman."


    Meanwhile, Isabe stealthily walked back up the stairs, her heart pounding in her chest. If she hadn''t woken up, she wouldn''t have heard what Ryan and their grandfather were talking about. She rushed to her room and called Ivy to report what she had heard.


    On the other side of the phone, Ivy dug her nails into her palm. ''So, Ryan''s grandfather is urging him to marry Lora? Does the old man know who she really is?''


    Her heart raced and hatred for Lora bubbled up within her. She would never allow Lora to ruin the marriage she had been looking forward to for so many years.

 Chapter 61~ What would he do?

    "Adan, any updates? Grandpa said something that got me thinkingst night... I keep thinking Lora might be Larisa," Ryan said on the phone. "I doubt two different people can have the same face unless they are identical twins." It was the next day and Ryan had called his friend to find out about the progress of the investigation. He didn''t know why, but something told him they were missing something.


    Lora''s hatred for him... the way she avoided him... it didn''t seem like she had just known him recently. He always suspected her identity but he thought it wasn''t possible for her to be Larisa since he had seen the explosion himself.


    However, his grandfather''s words made him realise something. There was no way they could verify that the ashes belonged to Larisa. They couldn''t even tell if the ashes were mixed with a human being''s or if they were just from the burnt warehouse. Larisa could have managed to escape before he could save her. Perhaps he couldn''t find her because she hid herself well.


    "Bro, it''s not possible to confirm if Lora is Larisa yet. I don''t want to give you false hope when I''m not sure... even if we only saw ashes, there''s a possibility that those ashes do belong to Larisa. Be ready for positive or negative news," Adan Nicholson responded on the phone.


    He didn''t want to see his friend go back to a bad state because of this again. It would be like seeing his wife die all over again if he realised she had really died in that fire.


    Ryan''s jaw clenched. He pinched the bridge of his nose and said, "I know but it''s important that I find out before the engagement ceremony. I need to know if Lora is Larisa as soon as possible."


    "I know, man. My men are still trying to verify their findings and I haven''t gotten anything from Bianca either," Adan responded.


    Ryan sighed, frustration creeping into him. Why did the Davis family hide information about Lora? What were they hiding?


    The only information they could find was from thest six years and it wasn''tplete.


    He uttered, "Let me know when you find out something. It doesn''t matter the ce or the time. As long as it''s news about Lora, I want to know about it. Also, I want the PI to re-investigate what happened six years ago. I want to know who kidnapped Ivy and Larisa at the same time and what their motive was."


    "Sure thing, Ryan. I''ll do my best," Adan remarked. "However, those men seemed to have fled the Country."


    "I don''t care... this time, we need to find them. Something tells me this wasn''t just a kidnapping nned by my enemies," Ryan muttered.


    "Ok. I''ll ask him to work on that as well," Adan promised and ended the call.


    Ryan nced towards the Davis & Co. building. He had parked on the other side of the road, not knowing why he drove to that ce during lunchtime.


    Soon, he saw Jason''s car drive by. Lora left the building and entered his car after giving him a warm hug.


    Seeing this, Ryan clenched the steering wheel tightly as jealousy twisted his heart. What would he do if Lora was really Larisa?


    Would she forgive him?


    Meanwhile, Adan called Bianca when he got off the phone with Ryan. He had been monitoring her phone for a while but her texts with Lora were clean with nothing that could give Lora away about her identity.


    ...


    Bianca took some time to answer the phone. When she did, she questioned, "What is it?"


    "Why the hostility, princess? Can''t I call you?" Adan asked, a smirk ying on his lips.


    He realised he loved working Bianca up. She was cute when angry.


    "It depends on why you''re calling," Bianca reluctantly replied.


    "Do you want to link up for lunch?" Adan suddenly offered.


    On the other side, Bianca froze when she heard that. ''Is he asking me out on a date?'' She mused, her heart racing erratically.


    "Is the lunch on you?" She asked, biting her lip.


    "Of course, you can eat whatever you want. I''ll text you the address," Adan said and Bianca smiled to herself.


    She was off work today and didn''t


    Ov


    expect Adan to call her since many said he never called someone ke already slept with. He was a hit-and-run kind of person,


    Since he called her, Bianca felt kind of special.


    "I''ll be there," Bianca said and cut the call, her heart jumping excitedly.


    ''Oh my God! Why am I excited?'' Bianca asked and scolded herself. ''Stop it, Bee. he probably just wants to talk.''


    Regardless, she couldn''t stop herself from feeling butterflies in her stomach.


    It didn''t take long for Bianca to get ready. She dressed simply in a white tee and blue jeans before pulling her blonde hair into a bun. Walking into the ce she was supposed to meet Adan, a smile crossed her lips when she saw him heading towards a table.


    However, just as she was about tox


    swnovel?


    take a step forward, a beautifuldy suddenly flung herself at Adan wrapping her arms around his neck.


    "Adan, did you know that I''m here, so you came to surprise me?" The woman asked excitedly.N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    Seeing this, Bianca felt like someone had poured ice-cold water over her head.


    Adan pulled away from the woman He was about to turn his head when Bianca moved back and hid behind a pi her heart pounding violently in her chest.


    ''Why the hell did Ie here?'' She asked herself.


    It was then that she realised that she was acting silly. Did she think that Adan was interested in her just because they slept together? How could she forget that the man was a yer? The night they shared was nothing special to him...


    Bianca scoffed and muttered under her breath. "Come to think of it. It''s not special to me too. I don''t even remember what happened." Since Adan didn''t care and she couldn''t recall anything, it was best to forget what had happened and move on with her life.


    Bianca sighed and turned to walk away. However, her stomach dropped when she heard Adan''s voice.


    "Bianca, where are you going?" Adan asked, approaching her.


    Bianca forced a smile and turned to look at Adan before saying, "Something hase up, so I won''t be joining you for lunch." Before Adan could respond, Bianca whipped around and left the restaurant, leaving Adan frowning in confusion.


    "What happened?" He murmured to himself, wondering why she suddenly became cold.

 Chapter 62~ Tragic past

    At the Davis & Co. Company.


    Lora had a day when she received private consultations from VIP clients who wanted their jewelry designed by her.


    Hannah walked into the office and announced, "Miss Davis, thest VIP client has arrived."


    Lora looked up and nodded, "Send them in."


    A few minutester, the door opened and a beautiful striking woman with an elegant poise walked into the office.


    Lora''s eyes widened slightly when she saw who it was.


    The client was none other than, Diane Kingsley, Ryan''s sister.


    Lora masked her surprise with a professional smile, her stomach knotting with nerves. Why was Diane here? Did Ryan send her?


    ''What do I have to do to get rid of Ryanpletely?'' She asked herself in her mind. After promising Jason that she would stay away from Ryan, she didn''t want to be entangled with anyone who was close to him. "Good afternoon, Miss Kingsley-"


    "Oh stop it, Lora. Call me Diane. I''m not into that formal stuff," Diane remarked enthusiastically as she invited herself to take a seat opposite Lora.


    Lora smiled genuinely, feeling no bad intent from Diane. She replied, "Well then, Diane. What can I do for you?"


    Diane nced around the office and nodded in approval. She then turned her attention back to Lora and said, "I loved your work and I know I had purchased a lot of jewelry at theunch party but ady needs more jewelry, right?" Sheughed and added, "I wanted to have a piece customised by you... only your creativity can bring out my vision."


    Lora nodded, feeling at ease with Diane. She had this warm personality that gave people a sense of belonging. Smiling, she offered, "I would love to hear what ideas you have and I''ll try my best to bring them to life."


    "Really?" Diane''s eyes lit up. "I knew you could do it! Ok, let me tell you. I want..."


    Diane went ahead to describe the details she would love to see on the ne she wanted Lora to design and Lora listened patiently while writing down notes in her notebook.


    "I want the details to be something that represents my family- my brother, grandpa, myte mom and Dad even though we don''t really get along," Diane added and her voice suddenly trailed, a thought creeping into her mind as she stared at Lora. Sadness crept into her and she remarked, "You know what... the details should represent my sister-inw too, she was part of my cherished family."


    Lora''s heart skipped a beat and the pen froze in her hand.


    She forced a smile and said, "You must have loved her a lot."


    "Of course I did!" Diane eximed and leaned over. "Remember when I called you Larisa? That''s my brother''ste wife. You two could pass off as identical twins!"


    Lora blinked, unable to look Diane in the eyes. Diane had been good to her, so she felt bad about lying to her.


    "If I didn''t know any better, I would think you were my sister-inw," Diane remarked.


    Lora nced at Diane and said, "A lot of people have mistaken me for Larisa. However, I''m not her. I''m Lora Davis, the CEO of Davis & Co."


    Diane''s eyes turned sad. She


    dropped them and sighed before replying, "Yes, I know. I''m sorry. It''s not fair topare you to another woman. It would have been better if my sister-inw was still alive. Then maybe Ryan wouldn''t have to marry that vicious woman."


    She didn''t like Ivy at all. As a woman, she could see through Ivy''s wicked methods. The woman was a maniptor who had her ws lodged deep into her brother''s flesh.


    At first, Diane thought he was interested in Lora since he seemed to be paying attention to her, so when she heard that he had set the date for the ceremony, she knew he had fallen into Ivy''s trap again.


    Diane nced at Lora and uttered, "Actually, my brother doesn''t even love Ivy. He thought he loved her when they used to date but I know my brother better. The only reason he wants to marry her is because she saved him twice in the past."


    Although Lora didn''t want anything to do with Ryan, this was a matter that affected her rtionship with Ryan in the past, so she couldn''t help but listen to Diane.


    "Ryan almost died when he was young," Diane continued, shocking Lora. "We were out on a vacation once and he suddenly had a cramp while swimming in the ocean. He was a good swimmer but at that


    point, he couldn''t do anything to


    save himself and Dad was busy with his wife and other daughter was ill that day, so I stayed in the hotel. It turned out that Ivy was at that ce and she knew how to swim very well. She helped to bring him up to the surface and saved him from drowning. From that time, they became close andter started


    dating when they were old enough."Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    "Later on, Ryan got kidnapped by a business opponent. Ivy saw him being kidnapped and tried to stop it but they ended up kidnapping her too. She ended up saving him again and got her legs broken in the process." Lora''s eyes widened in shock. ''Ryan almost drowned when he was young?'' She mused.


    The kidnapping incident was news to her too... howe she didn''t know the man she got married to had such a tragic past?


    Aplicated feeling crept into Lora. She nced at Diane and asked, "Why are you telling me this?"


    Diane shrugged and said, "I don''t know... maybe it''s because I miss Larisa so much and my brother''s rtionship with Ivy is frustrating me. Perhaps eded to vent to someone."


    When Diane left, Lora sat back in her seat, her mind reeling with thoughts...

 Chapter 63~ The ceremony

    Days came and went and finally, the day of Ryan and Ivy''s engagement ceremony had arrived.


    Lora, dressed in a ck evening dress with cut-outs on the sides of her waist, walked into thevishly decorated hall with Jason by her side.


    "Are you sure about this? I know I epted this invitation on your behalf but if you don''t want to be here, we can leave," Jason remarked, looking down at Lora.


    Lora shook her head and said, "It''s fine... Since you had epted the invitation already, it wouldn''t look good if you went back on your word."


    Jason smiled and nodded, his heart resting when he saw how indifferent Lora looked.


    As soon as Lora entered the hall, the guests couldn''t help but whisper about her. After all, she had been in a scandal where people shipped her and Ryan together. Seeing her attend Ryan''s engagement was shocking to some.


    "Isn''t she shameless? She almost stole Miss Williams'' fiance and still has the audacity to attend her engagement ceremony."


    "Can you imagine? Perhaps she''s here to cause trouble for the couple. It looks like Mr Kingsley wasn''t serious about her after all."


    "That''s men for you... it was just lust. They always return to the women they truly love."


    When Ivy saw Lora and heard what others were saying about her, her lips turned into a smug smile.


    She was sparkling tonight with a shimmering sapphire blue gown that looked like a copy of the one Lora had worn during theunch party. Ivy had seen the way Ryan looked at Lora when she wore that dress and this time, she didn''t want anyone to outshine her at her own engagement ceremony.


    "Lora, Jason, you came!" Ivy eximed excitedly like they were the best of friends as she wheeled herself to them. "I''m so d you decided to be a part of my big day."


    Lora smiled politely but she didn''t bother to respond to Ivy.


    Ivy''s smile froze, however, she didn''t mind. Lora''s reaction just proved to her that she was jealous.


    "Are you happy for me, Lora? I''m marrying the most outstanding man in the city. Ryan is every woman''s dream and he chose me to be Mrs Kingsley," Ivy remarked in a taunting voice.


    "Congrattions," Lora said indifferently. She shared a knowing look with Jason who led her away, leaving Ivy fuming at Lora''sck of reaction.


    ''Why isn''t she pissed? I got the man!'' Ivy hissed in her mind, feeling unsatisfied.


    At the same time, Jason and Lora walked towards the dessert table. Jason nced at Lora and offered, "You mentioned being hungry earlier. Let me get you something."


    As he said that, he picked a te and ced a piece of cheesecake on it before giving it to Lora.


    Lora nced at Jason and shook her head, saying, "I''m sorry, I don''t eat cheesecake. I''m allergic."


    Jason''s eyes widened. "Oh no... I''m sorry, my love. I didn''t know."


    He ced the cheesecake back and got some fruits instead, saying, "It seems there''s a lot that I need to know about you."


    "We can know more about each other as time goes by," Lora remarked.


    As they chatted and smiled at each other, Ryan who stood in the distance was watching their interaction, anger ring through him. When he saw Lora refuse the cheesecake, he frowned.


    Is she also allergic to cheesecake?


    He recalled how Larisa got sick when she ate cheesecake for his sake once. That was when he found out she was allergic to cheesecake.


    Howe both of them are allergic to cheesecake? They also have the same birthmark too...


    Ryan kept staring at Lora and saw how happy she seemed. His stomach churned with jealousy.


    He couldn''t help himself and approached her.


    "Lora, I didn''t expect you toe to the ceremony," Ryan remarked, ncing at Lora and noticing how beautiful she looked in the ck gown.


    It was like she looked good in any outfit. She was perfect in every which way.


    Lora rolled her eyes upon seeing Ryan. They had just gotten rid of Ivy and now Ryan followed them. ''Here we go again. Seems this couple likes to make trouble for me.'' She nced at him and replied, "Your fiancee invited me and there''s no reason for me not to attend."


    Smiling at him, she uttered, "Congrattions. I wish you happiness."


    Ryan''s jaw clenched in anger. Lora didn''t seem to care that he was marrying another woman and it irked him.


    ""Lora-"


    "Mr Kingsley, what a great event you''ve arranged here. Congrattions on your engagement," Jason chipped in to get Ryan''s attention from Lora.Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Ryan red at Jason but he didn''t respond to his remark.


    Jason didn''t mind. He smiled and said, "Your bride looks beautiful today... I''m also looking forward to getting married to Lora. I hope youe and support us. Is that ok, Lora? Would you like Mr Kingsley to attend our wedding?"


    Lora smiled and yed along, "No problem. He''s invited."


    Ryan''s jaw tightened and he clenched his hands into fists. The thought of Lora marrying Jason didn''t sit well with him.


    ncing at Jason, he leaned over


    and whispered, "I don''t know who the fuck you are or where you,


    from But I don''t trust you. // Came


    I


    out who you are soon."


    He pulled back but Jason''s face did nothing to betray his emotions. Grabbing a ss of wine from the table, Jason raised it to Ryan and said, "All the best."


    Ryan gave the couple onest nce before turning and leaving angrily.


    "What did he tell you?" Lora asked.


    Jason looked at her and smiled before saying, "Nothing important. He''s just jealous of us."


    Meanwhile, Ivy saw how Ryan


    couldn''t help himself but approach Lora even at their engagement ceremony. The way his gaze


    lingered on her even though she wore a simple ck dress ignited a spark of jealousy in Ivy''s heart.


    ''Damn you, Lora! I hate you! I hate your face!'' She hissed in her mind.


    She looked at Lora viciously before pulling out her phone and sending out a text.

 Chapter 64~ The texts

    The hall was buzzing with excitement and soft music yed in the background as everyone awaited the main program for the event- Ryan Kingsley and Ivy Williams'' engagement.


    Lora suddenly received a text message on her phone. She took out her phone from her purse and smiled when she saw that it was from Bianca.


    Bianca: [Help! E and Ethan won''t stop throwing tantrums. It seems they wanted toe with you to the engagement party.]


    Lora frowned when she saw that message. Bianca had offered to stay with the kids since the nanny had gone to visit her rtives, however, she didn''t expect them to trouble her for the first time. She replied immediately. [I''m sorry, Bee. They are usually well-behaved. I don''t know why they are like this tonight.]


    Bianca: [Ethan keeps saying he has to be by your side to protect you from Ivy. I''m surprised he knows she''s evil. Perhaps they heard about the giarism case.]


    Lora''s heart felt warm. It felt good to have little humans who cared so much about you. Replying, she wrote,


    [Tell them I''ll be fine. No one can bully their mommy.]


    The phone went quiet for a few seconds before Lora''s phone buzzed again.


    Bianca: [It seems the twins don''t want to listen tonight. Ethan is just as stubborn as his father. Is it because they look alike? E is also angry but she''s sweet and cute.] Just below the text, Bianca sent a photo. In the picture, Ethan looked grumpy. He sat on the couch with his arms crossed, his small face sporting a defiant pout.


    Even Lora couldn''t deny how much Ethan resembled Ryan, especially when his face was serious like this.


    On the other hand, E was hugging Bianca around her neck, a grin tugging at her lips.


    Lora''s heart melted when she saw her kids. A small smile crossed her lips. She was so blessed to have these cutie pies.


    Bianca: [Please talk to them, or I''ll bring them over.]


    Although Lora knew Bianca wouldn''t do that, she nced at Jason and excused herself, "ed to talk to the kids. I''ll be back soon."


    "Should Ie with you?" Jason offered.


    "No, I''ll just go to the balcony and then use the restroom," Lora replied.


    Lora made her way toward the balcony, her phone in her hand. She made sure the music couldn''t reach the area and initiated a video call.


    A few secondster, the twins'' faces were stered on Lora''s screen.


    "Mommy!" E remarked, grinning. "Are you ok, Mommy? Is that woman bullying you?"N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    Lora chuckled. She smiled to show her children that she was ok and replied, "Your mommy is strong, sweetie. I can''t be bullied by just anyone." "What about the handsome uncle? Is he bullying you?" E asked and Lora''s heart skipped a beat.


    Why would E think that Ryan would bully her?


    "Honey, no one can bully your mommy. Don''t worry and go to bed. I''ll find you," Lora urged.


    Ethan frowned. He moved closer to the screen and remarked, "Tell the driver to bring us there, Mommy. I''ll protect you from that woman."


    This made Lora smile. What protection could her little son give her? She was the protector here...


    However, she yed along and said, "Not tonight, my love. Next time, I''ll bring you with me. You can protect me all you want."


    "Do you have to be at the party?" Ethan suddenly asked.


    "Of course, I was invited, sweetie. It''s rude to note. Don''t worry, I''ll spend time with you some other time, ok?" Lora remarked.


    Ethan sighed. His expression suddenly turned serious as he stated, "Be careful, Mommy. Don''t trust anyone over there. Especially the vicious woman."


    For a moment, Lora had a sense of foreboding creep into her. Sometimes, she forgot that Ethan was five years old from the way he carried himself. She chuckled and said, "I''m always careful. Ok you two, be good for Auntie Bee, ok?"


    "Ok, Mommy. We love you!"


    "I love you more!"


    When Lora cut the call, she breathed in and out to calm herself. Ethan''s words kept ringing in her mind.


    However, she brushed those


    thoughts away. The reason Ivy targeted her was because of Ryan Now that Ryan was making things official with her, she didn''t have ¨¤ reason to try and hurt Lora anymore.


    With that thought, she left the balcony and walked towards the restroom.


    However, the moment she stepped into the restroom, a cloth covered


    scent filled her nose. Her eyes widened in panic as she lost


    her mouth and nose and a P


    strength in her limbs, her phone slipping from her hand and dropping to the floor.


    It didn''t take long for the room to spin and within seconds, Lora was plunged into darkness.


    Meanwhile, back in the hall, the MC got on the stage and announced, "Ladies and Gentlemen, this is the moment we''ve all been waiting for Please wee Ryan Kingsley and Ivy Williams to the stage. It is now time to officiate their engagement. A round of apuse for the couple please!"


    The crowd erupted in apuse, looking at Ryan and Ivy.


    Ryan pushed Ivy''s wheelchair towards the stage. His face was emotionless, hiding the whirlwind of emotions that was swirling within him.


    This was supposed to be a happy event, yet his mind was elsewhere. His grandfather didn''t even attend to show his disapproval.


    Was he really going to go through with this?


    At the same time, Ivy couldn''t stop smiling from ear to ear. Finally, Lora or Larisa or whatever her name is had lost! Ryan was going to be hers forever.


    So what if Larisa is alive? In the end, she still managed to keep Ryan to herself.


    ''You''re no match for me, Lora,'' Ivy smirked in her mind.


    Just as Ryan was about to help Ivy up the stage, Adan''s voice stopped him in his tracks.


    "Ryan! Wait... you need to see this," Adan said, rushing to Ryan and showing him his phone.


    Ryan looked at the screen and when he read the conversation between Lora and Bianca on the phone, his heart sank.

 Chapter 65~ Gone

    Adan Nicholson had been closely monitoring Bianca''s messages in the past few days hoping he would find anything about Lora.


    However, the two women never talked about anything that could disclose Lora''s secret. Adan was even thinking about giving up, thinking maybe they were just being paranoid.


    He was at the engagement party when his phone suddenly buzzed and he saw the conversation that Lora had with Bianca.


    His eyebrows furrowed when he saw the kids that were in the picture that Bianca had sent to Lora.


    "These kids..." he murmured to himself, his eyes searching for Ryan.


    This was big news! Lora had children and one of them resembled Ryan so much! This couldn''t be a coincidence.


    The MC called Ryan and Ivy to the stage and Adan''s eyes widened. ''No. I need to show him this conversation before he goes up there.''


    Adan rushed towards Ryan and showed him the conversation.


    "What is it?" Ryan asked as he got the phone, his eyebrows knitting in confusion as he read the conversation.


    "Read that and tell me what you think," Adan remarked.


    Everyone was watching, wondering why Ryan had stopped to see something on the phone instead of proceeding with the event.


    Ivy''s face flushed. She smiled at the guests awkwardly, trying to look like this was normal. What was Ryan doing in front of all these people?


    At the same time, Ryan''s hand that was holding the phone trembled when he saw the photo.


    Why was there a picture of kids that looked like Lora and himself?


    How did this happen? He didn''t recall meeting Lora in the past and he''s only ever slept with one woman- Larisa.


    This could only mean one thing... Lora was Larisa.


    Ryan felt like a knife had been stabbed into his chest, twisting deeper with each second.


    "Larisa... it''s really you," he whispered just as a single tear rolled down his cheek. "You''re alive..."


    "Ryan, what''s going on?" Ivy asked Ryan but he ignored her, his eyes focussed on the twins on the phone.


    ''These kids... are they mine and Larisa?'' He mused, his heart clenching in pain.


    Regret filled himpletely, followed by guilt. Larisa had been nearby all along and he failed to recognise her. Looking at his friend, he asked desperately as more tears rolled down his cheeks. "Where is she?"


    Adan shook his head and replied, "I don''t know, bro. Ist saw her with Jason Anderson."


    "ed to find her," Ryan said, his voice low and hoarse.


    He knew that the evidence pointed to Lora being Larisa but he needed to verify it himself. He wanted her to confirm her identity... he wanted to find out if the kids who looked like them were theirs and why she hid them from him. Most importantly, he wanted to make sure she was Larisa and that she was alive.


    Ryan turned to leave but Ivy grabbed his arm and said in a trembling voice, "Ryan, where are you going? We are supposed to make our engagement official."


    Ivy''s heart raced anxiously. She


    didn''t know what Ryan had seen in Adan''s phone to make him look so devastated. But all she knew was that she couldn''t let him go. Somehow, she knew that once he left things between them would never be the same again


    "Please don''t leave, Ryan. This is our engagement ceremony and everyone is watching," Ivy pleaded, her eyes watering with tears. However, without sparing her a nce, Ryan shook Ivy''s hand off and stormed off, his eyes searching frantically for Lora through the crowd.


    A murmur swept through the crowd when Ryan left his fiancee just before they could proceed with the main program of the event. However, Ryan didn''t care about the confused looks or whispered gossip echoing from the crowd.


    "Lora!" He called out, looking around the hall desperately. "Lora, where are you?"


    Adan followed after him to help him search for Lora. He said, "I can''t see Jason. Maybe they left together."


    A ripple of jealousy rushed through Ryan. He replied through gritted teeth, "Let''s check the restroom first."


    Sure enough, they found Jason standing outside the restroom with a confused face. Ryan approached Jason and questioned, "Where''s Lora?"


    "Why are you so interested in my woman, Mr Kingsley? Please stay away from- Hey!"


    Ryan ignored Jason and barged into the restroom. However, Lora was nowhere in sight.


    His heart began to pound in his chest as a sense of unease settled in the pits of his belly. Did something happen to her?


    ''No... not again. I can''t lose her again,'' he mused in his mind, running a hand through his hair.


    "What''s going on?" Jason followed Ryan into the restroom when he noticed that something was amiss.


    Lora had taken too long in the


    restroom so he followed her but he didn''t expect her not to be in the


    restroom. Did she leave without telling him? Perhaps she was ufortable at the party


    Ryan didn''t reply to Jason. He took out his phone and dialled Lora''s number.


    When he heard a ringtone echoing in the restroom, his heart dropped beneath his feet. He looked around and saw Lora''s phone on the floor, his stomach churning at what that could mean. "That''s her phone," Jason remarked, his eyebrows furrowing.


    Ryan picked the phone up, his hands trembling as fear like no other twisted his stomach.


    Was this a test? The moment he found the woman he had lost... she was taken away before he could see her.


    Ryan''s jaw tightened as he clenched his hand around Lora''s phone, his heart breaking into a million pieces. ''Not this again...'' he murmured in his mind.


    "Fuck!" Ryan eximed.


    He turned around and punched one el


    of the mirrors in the restroom,


    creating a dent and cracks in the strong ss. Blood trickled down his fist but he didn''t care, the thought of history repeating itself hurt more than a few cuts on his skin.


    "Ryan-" Adan approached his friend, his eyes sad.T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Ryan nced at his friend, his eyes bloodshot as he said, "She''s gone, Adan. Someone took her."

 Chapter 66~ Find her

    "What do you mean she''s gone?" Jason asked, confusion creasing his eyebrows.


    "There''s a possibility of kidnapping," Adan answered since Ryan was ignoring Jason. "She''s not in the restroom and her phone was found on the floor."


    Jason''s furrowed eyebrows tightened and worry crept into him. He remarked, "That''s not possible. Lora has security always following her around. They are disguised most of the time but they are there to protect her in case of anything." "That wouldn''t matter if a criminal is determined to kidnap someone," Adan said just as Ryan stormed out of the restroom.


    "Ryan! Where are you going?" Adan called after his friend worriedly.


    "To check the CCTV," Ryan replied through gritted teeth, his wounded fist leaving a trail of blood in his wake.


    They all went to the CCTV room while everyone in the hall wondered what was happening. Where did Ryan run off to and what about the engagement?


    Ivy clenched the arms of her wheelchair tightly as she endured the looks of pity from the guests. How could Ryan do this to her?


    Meanwhile, in the CCTV room, the manager of the hotel came forward and Ryan yelled, "How''s the security in this ce? Is this how you run this ce? Someone went missing! I need to find her, now!"


    The manager trembled when he was being faced with three imposing figures. He stammered, "I-I''m sorry. We had no idea such a thing would happen on your engagement, Mr Kingsley," the manager said and helped them to pull out the footage. Coincidentally, the cameras along the hallway near the restrooms were conveniently not working.


    Ryan''s jaw tightened, his stomach churning with worry. He ordered, "Check the cameras at the back. If they sneaked her away, they could have used the backdoor."


    The manager quickly pulled out the footage and after rewinding several times, they finally saw someone carrying a woman out and cing her into a car.


    Ryan narrowed his eyes and instructed, "ed you to zoom in and get the license te."


    Taking out his phone, he called his assistant, Lawrence Scott.


    "ed you to run a te for me. There''s a possibility that it''s fake, so I want you to see if you can trace the car through the city cameras," Ryan ordered and cut the call.


    He ran a hand through his hair in frustration, his heart pounding. He felt like he was about to go crazy from worry...


    He couldn''t lose Lora. Not again.


    "I don''t understand. Why would anyone want to kidnap Lora?" Jason asked and Ryan raised his eyes sharply.


    Without warning, he approached Jason and threw a punch at his face. "She was with you and you failed to protect her!"


    "Ryan! The most important thing right now is to find Larisa. This fighting won''t help us at all," Adan intervened, stepping in between the two men to stop the fight that was about to start. ''Larisa?'' Jason mused.


    "Bro, we will find her," Adanforted his friend, his heart arching when he saw the crazed look on Ryan''s face.


    Ryan''s eyes watered with tears. HeContent is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    pinched the bridge of his nose and said in a hoarse voiceced with


    guilt, "History is repeating itself,


    man. Just like my wife, Larisa,


    missing six years ago and I wa forced to make that hard decision, Lora has gone missing on the day I


    found out she''s actually Larisa... the


    wife I thought I lost."


    "I can''t sit here and do nothing, I have to be out there searching for her in every way possible," Ryan remarked and stormed out with Adan following after him. "What about the engagement?" Adan asked.


    "It''s cancelled," Ryan said as he rushed outside to get into his car to start his search for Lora.


    When Ryan and Adan left, Jason furrowed his eyebrows. So, Lora was actually Ryan''s supposedte wife and her name used to be Larisa in the past. It was no wonder Ryan was so interested in her.


    During Jason''s investigation, he had found out about Ryan''s secret wife and knew her name. However, he only knew that she looked like Lora, he didn''t expect them to be the same person. Jason recalled Ethan''s face and he smiled helplessly. He had always felt like Ethan looked familiar but he couldn''t put a finger on it.


    Sighing, Jason took out his phone and made a call. He instructed, "ed you to help me find Lora Davis. I need to find her first before that bastard, Ryan Kingsley, does."


    Jason''s usual calm and friendly demeanor disappeared, his face marred into a vicious look. He won''t let Ryan save Lora. Never.


    ...


    An hour passed and everyone had gotten wind of Lora''s disappearance.


    Lora opened her eyes, feeling a splitting headache. She groaned and tried to get up. However, she realised her arms were tied behind her back, the thick rope tightening the more she struggled.


    Her heart raced when memories


    from the past shed through her mind. It all looked and felt the same... the warehouse where she had been kidnapped six years ago... the fear that crept into her when she realised she was being held against her will.


    ''How did I find myself here?'' Lora asked in her mind, looking around to find a way to escape.


    She recalled going to the restroom and then someone covered a cloth over her mouth and nose.


    Lora fought back the tears that threatened to fall, trauma and panic creeping into her. She hated being trapped in dark, dirty ces. It suffocated her.


    However, this was not the time to cry or get scared. She had to escape for herself and her children. From her experience, she knew that there was no one who woulde and save her. She was on her own.


    Lora tugged at the ropes, trying her best to pull free, but they only tightened, burning her skin.


    Suddenly, she heard the sound of high heels clicking on the floor just as a pair of long legs came into view.


    "Hello, Larisa," a soft voice filled with venomous sweetness echoed in the warehouse.

 Chapter 67~ You can walk?

    The familiar voice sent a chill down Lora''s spine.


    "Ivy?" She asked, squinting her eyes to see properly.


    The woman crouched down to meet Lora''s stunned gaze, her sharp facial features bing clear.


    She had a wicked smile on her lips and her eyes glinted with murderous intent.


    "The one and only," Ivy remarked, smirking wickedly.


    Lora''s eyes widened into saucers. She asked, "You can walk?"


    Ivyughed out loud. She shook her head and stood up straight before walking somewhere to turn on the lights. Looking at Lora''s wide eyes, she said, "Of course I can walk. What did you think? That I''m disabled? Is that why you thought you could steal Ryan from me?" "ver stole anyone from you-"


    "Oh, but you did! Everything was going well until you showed up! I hate you as Lora and I hated you as Larisa!" Ivy yelled hysterically. "Do you know what I did to make Ryan notice me? Who do you think you are to drop from nowhere and steal his heart so easily?" Lora frowned, not understanding Ivy at all. Ryan had always loved Ivy. That was a fact that Lora knew even before she got married to him after their one-night stand.


    So, why was she here using her of stealing his heart when she''s the one who Ryan has always loved? He even chose to save her six years ago...


    "Look, Ivy, I don''t know why you''re acting like this, but Ryan and I are over. He''s never going to find out I''m Larisa and you two will get married soon. There''s no need for this," Lora uttered, hoping Ivy would get it in her head.


    However, Ivy red at Lora with hatred. She scoffed and said, "He couldn''t go through with the engagement because he found out that you''re missing! It''s your fault that my day was ruined and for that, I''ll make sure you die and stay dead."


    She sneered and added, "How dare you fake your death and give birth to Ryan''s children? This time I''ll make sure you disappear forever!"


    Lora looked around, trying to find an object that she could use to defend herself. However, there was nothing nearby. Instead of fighting with Ivy, she decided to try to reason with her. After all, she couldn''t die here... she had children to take care of and her parents would be heartbroken.


    "Look, I know you feel you need to get rid of me but have you thought about the consequences? You won''t get away with this," Lora remarked. "Do you want to spend the rest of your life in jail?"


    Ivyughed out loud. She got closer and remarked, "I''ve already gotten away with it. No one will find you here... so, you will die with the secret that I killed you and Ryan will never know that I can walk. You won''t get a chance to say goodbye to your little bastards but don''t worry, I''ll make sure I give them the life they deserve."


    At the mention of her children, Lora became flustered. She yelled, "Don''t you dare go near my children, you snake!"


    "Oh, how will you stop me? I''ll be the good girl who will tell Ryan the truth. I''ll then offer to help him raise his little kids that you left behind... he will thank me for being kind-hearted and then, I''ll make sure the bastards go through hell," Ivy said andughed like a viin from a Disney movie.


    mes of fury danced through Lora''s eyes as she red at Ivy. She hissed, "I won''t let you hurt my children. I''ll crawl out of here if I have to."


    "Hahaha!" Ivyughed like a maniac. "All the best."


    She suddenly grabbed a container of petrol and began to soak the walls of the building with it. "I''ll make sure your death is painfully slow. By the time Ryan finds this ce, if he will, you would have been burnt to ashes, again." Lora''s eyes widened when Ivy lit a match, her lips turning into an evil grin.


    ""No! Don''t-"


    Ivy dropped the match and a fire instantly erupted, engulfing the walls with mes.


    ...


    Meanwhile, earlier at the Davis mansion.


    "Ryan Kingsley? What are you doing here?" Jack Davis asked the man who had showed up at his doorstep.


    Ryan, looking like he had lost his


    entire world dropped to his knees. In


    a trembling voice, he said, "Lora is


    missing. I''ve tried all I can to look for her but I''ve failed to find her


    Jack shared a worried look with his wife. Lora was missing? Howe?


    He quickly replied, "We can find her. There''s a brooch she always attaches to her clothes. We can use that to find her."


    "Really?" Ryan let out a sigh of relief.


    At first, he had found Lora''s security team and asked them to keep her disappearance a secret until they found Lora, however, he couldn''t keep quiet anymore in case ber parents had a solution.


    Sure enough, letting the Davis family know was a wise decision.


    Jack quickly dialled Aiden''s number. He said on the phone, "I know you don''t want toe home but we need you. Lora is missing and you''re


    the only one who can find he using


    your technology."


    It turns out that when they found Lora six years ago, they gave her a brooch and attached a tracker to it in case she got kidnapped again. Luckily, it coulde in handy in finding her. Freya cried. She nced at her husband and said, "Jack, I can''t lose my daughter again. Why do these things keep happening to her?"


    Ryan swallowed a lump in his throat and guilt crept into him. He uttered, "It''s my fault. I already know she''s Larisa... this time, I''ll save her, I promise."Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Jack and Freya had no time to argue with Ryan. Although they wondered why he was searching for Lora instead of being at his engagement ceremony with the woman he loved.


    "Our security team will go with you and your men to help," Jack stated, his eyebrows furrowed in worry.


    It didn''t take long for Aiden Davis to arrive and a few minutester, they found where Lora was being held.


    Aiden nced at Ryan and said, "It''s in an abandoned warehouse building on the outskirts of town." Ryan''s stomach dropped to his feet. ''A warehouse again?''


    "Let''s go... my helicopter is in your yard," Ryan proimed and they both rushed there.


    Adan and a few bodyguards were already in the helicopter awaiting instructions.


    After instructing his assistant to contact the police and have some men drive to the location, Ryan gave the order to take off.


    Meanwhile, Jason received a call from his men.


    "Hello, Sir? We ced a tracker on Ivy Williams like you said and she drove to a warehouse in the outskirts."


    Jason started his sports car and replied, "Send me the location."


    In the dark night of Moonstone City, two men raced against time in order to save the woman they loved.


    Ryan arrived first, his heart sinking when he saw the mes that covered the warehouse. His stomach churned, memories of the past rushing through his mind.


    "NO! Lora!" He yelled in agony and before anyone could stop him, he ran into the burning warehouse without hesitation.

 Chapter 68~ Save her

    On their way to the location, Ryan''s heart kept beating like a drum. Every second that passed felt like a lifetime.


    What if they were toote again?


    What if he couldn''t save Lora and lost her again?


    All sorts of thoughts reeled in his mind, his heart clenching in pain.


    He screamed at the pilot through the headsets. "Can this thing go faster? Hurry, Lora is in danger!"


    "Ryan, calm down. Do you want us to crash? The helicopter is already fast enough," Adan reasoned through the headsets.


    "Calm? I can''t stay calm, Adan! I just found out Larisa is still alive and she got kidnapped! What if something happens to her again? I''ll never forgive myself!" Ryan yelled, tears rolling down his cheeks. The sound of the helicopter drowned out his voice as it flew through the sky.


    ''Larisa... please be safe.''


    ''I swear I''ll make it up to you with my life. Please... don''t die.''


    It didn''t take long for the helicopter tond near the warehouse. However, Ryan''s heart sank when he saw the mes that had engulfed the ce.


    His heart raced, beating so violently, it hurt.


    "Not this again..." he murmured, his voice trembling.


    "I''m calling the fire department," Adan said.


    However, Ryan began to run towards the warehouse, his heart in his throat.


    "Ryan! It''s going to explode, you can''t go in there!" Adan screamed at his friend but nothing could stop Ryan.


    He only had one thing in mind- he had to save Lora no matter what.


    The police sirens could be heard in the distance but Ryan had no time to wait. He couldn''t risk letting Lora die in the fire.


    He didn''t know what miracle happened thest time and how she managed to escape... but this time, he would make sure he was the one to save her. At all costs.


    The heat from the burning warehouse hit Ryan like a hurricane the closer he got to the building. However, that didn''t stop him.


    ''Lora is inside... I have to save her,'' is all he told himself and added speed to his legs, rushing forward without hesitation.


    He felt like his skin was already burning when he reached the door, sweat trickling down his face and body like he was standing under a tap of water.


    Ryan kicked the door down, a wave of heat and smoke hitting his face. The thick smoke choked his throat, stealing his breath but he didn''t care.


    When the fire grew bigger, he felt his heart drop to the pits of his stomach and he yelled in agony, "NO! Lora!"


    He rushed through the fire, his skin sizzling at the brief contact he made with the inferno. Pain like no other rippled through him, but none of that mattered. He had to find Lora... he couldn''t lose her again.


    "Lora!" He called out, his throat, eyes and nose burning from the smoke that had seeped into him.


    His lungs stung when he tried to breathe and his skin seared from the heat but Ryan pushed forward until he got inside.


    Luckily, only the walls of the building were on fire. However, the smoke and heat could still cause extreme damage.


    His eyes desperately searched for Lora through the smoke and he suddenly saw her on the ground, gasping for breath. "Lora!" He ran towards her and pulled her into his embrace. "I''m here."


    At the same time, Lora coughed violently, her throat burning. She felt like every cell in her body was in pain... having been in the warehouse for some time, she ended up inhaling a lot of smoke.


    Attempts to scream for help had proved futile. She saw her life sh before her eyes, her mind screaming- No! She couldn''t die now! Her children were still young and they needed her. Did anyone notice that she was missing?


    She was about to lose consciousness when she heard Ryan''s worried voice calling for her.


    "Ryan?" She croaked, her voice hoarse.


    Did hee to save her?


    No... how was that possible? Ryan could never save her. Unless if she was Ivy.


    "Lora, I''ve got you. I''ll get you out of here," Ryan''s voice was clearer this time.


    He cradled Lora to his chest and she could feel his warmth.


    Was she dreaming?


    Ryan had actuallye to save her?


    It had to be a dream... or perhaps she had already died and she was imagining things in the afterlife.


    However, when he untied the ropes that bound her wrists and hugged her again, she came back to reality. She was still in the burning warehouse and Ryan rushed in to save her. "R-Ryan... what... are-"


    "Ssssh, don''t speak. Save yourContent is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    energy. Helpsing," Ryan


    whispered, pulling Lora closer to his


    .


    chest. "God, I''m d I found you in time. I''m so d you''re alive, Larisa, you don''t know how many times I''ve wished to trade my life with yours."


    Lora frowned. Did he just call her Larisa? When did he find out?


    She had no energy, so she just kept quiet, burying her face in his chest as Ryan continued, "When I thought you were dead, I kept hoping that time would change back so that I could trade my life with yours. I


    med myself for not saving you on time...dide back for you at that time... I saved Ivy first only because she couldn''t walk. However, I was still toote. I know what it looked like but I didn''t n to abandon you... I didn''t expect those thugs to light the ce on fire... I''ve lived with regret for thest six years... I regretted not saving you, Larisa... I should have offered my life


    to save you at that time."


    Lora''s eyes were getting tired, however, she could hear Ryan''s words and her heart clenched in pain. She could hear the raw pain and guilt in his voice.


    "I know the situation is bad but I thank God for this second chance he gave me... now I can save you with my life. I hope you find it in your heart to forgive me, Lora."


    Ryan kept confessing, telling Lora about his regrets, trying his best to keep her awake. However, the oxygen in the building kept depleting, the smoke getting thicker with each second. Suddenly, the roof gave way with a deafening crack, making the burning debris fall towards them.


    Ryan acted fast. He twisted his body, using it to shield Lora from the impact. He groaned when a jagged oak beam struck him across the back. "R-Ryan..." Lora''s voice trembled as she raised her head to meet Ryan''s gray eyes.


    Ryan smiled through the pain, blood dripping from the corner of his mouth. As he gradually lost consciousness, he said, "I''m d you''re safe."

 Chapter 69~ My Wife

    Lora''s heart dropped to her feet when Ryan''s eyes closed. She panicked, her stomach churning with fear and worry. Was he dead?


    She shook him slightly and called out with a trembling voice. "R-Ryan..."


    Silence.


    "Ryan... wake up, you''re scaring me!" Lora cried out, her voice hoarse from the smoke she inhaled.


    She couldn''t move because of the heavy oak beam that had pinned Ryan and herself to the ground. It was supposed to fall on her but Ryan used his body to prevent that from happening and got hurt instead.


    When Lora tried to move the beam, she felt a warm liquid on Ryan''s back and her heart raced like a galloping horse, worry and fear creeping into her. He was bleeding heavily.


    "Ryan!" She called out, tears rolling down her cheeks when she realised he had put his life on the line for her.


    He was willing to die... for her.


    Lora''s heart clenched in pain, her tears soaking her face. She felt helpless.


    Luckily, help came quickly. Firefighters barged into the warehouse with hoses and axes, tearing away the debris that had closed the way. They made quick work of putting out the fire and removing all sharp objects that were threatening to fall. "Ryan!"


    "Lora!"


    Lora heard familiar voices and her heart jumped with hope. She looked up and through the haze, she saw Jason and Adan running towards them with worried looks on their faces.


    "Help, please! Ryan is dying!" Lora cried, her heart feeling like it was a foreign object in her body.


    It hurt so bad, she wanted to cut it out of her chest.


    Why? Why did Ryan do this?


    Adan and Jason rushed over and removed the beam from Ryan''s back and the paramedics quickly performed first aid before carrying him to the ambnce.


    Meanwhile, Jason rushed to help Lora up, his face full of worry for her.


    "Are you ok?" Jason asked Lora, looking her over. He held her in his arms, frowning when he felt her trembling body.


    "I want to go with him... he got hurt because of me," Lora said instead, her eyes following Ryan who was ced on a stretcher, an oxygen mask over his mouth and nose.


    "You''re hurt too and you need to have a medical checkup-"Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "No. Adan, I want to go with Ryan. I need to make sure he''s ok," Lora pleaded with Adan, her eyes brimmed with tears.


    She couldn''t just let Ryan go alone knowing he almost died because of her.


    Adan sighed and nodded, "Sure, you will go with him in the ambnce. We will follow closely behind and I''ll call Grandpa Charles."


    Lora nodded quickly and pulled away from Jason''s arms.


    Hurt flickered through Jason''s eyes but he didn''t stop Lora. He had no choice but to let her go... after all, Ryan did save her and she just wanted to make sure he was ok. However, he still wished he had been the one to save Lora, not Ryan. On the way to the hospital, Lora held Ryan''s hand, praying silently for his recovery.


    "Wake up, Ryan! I want to know why you did that! Why did you act so recklessly?" She cried, holding his hand tight.


    Her eyes felt on the wounds on his back and arms. Intense guilt crept into her Things between us had ended a long time ago, Ryan. Why did you put your life on the line to save me?''


    Lora couldn''t fathom why Ryan would save her. His words as he tried to keep her awake shed through her mind and her heart raced...


    He found out about her... is that why he saved her? Because she''s Larisa?


    Lora had so many questions but Ryan couldn''t hear or answer them right now.


    She nced at him, her heart breaking as his skin grew paler by the second.


    ''Please be ok,'' she said in her mind, tears rolling down her cheeks.


    Hourster, Ryan finally opened his eyes and found himself in a hospital room, the smell of antiseptic seeping into his nose.


    He groaned, feeling like he had been hit by a truck. Images from earlier shed through his mind and he remembered the fire, his heart jumping to his throat. "Lora!" He called out in a hoarse voice, his throat burning.


    The heart monitor''s beeping


    elerated and Ryan attempted to get up from the bed despite the sharp pain that shot through him. He wanted to make sure Lora was ok!


    How could he lose consciousness without making sure she was out of the warehouse first?


    No... he had to see with his own eyes that she was fine.


    "Ryan..." a soft voice stopped Ryan''s unrest. He turned his head to the side and found Lora seated next to his bed, a few bandages on her arms. She still had dark smoke on her face and a few scratches indicating that she hadn''t left his side or gone to take a shower.


    "Larisa... you''re alive!" Ryan said, relief flooding him.


    She looked a bit worn out but she was safe regardless. He tried to raise his arm to touch her face but he groaned, pain shooting through his body. "Careful... you were hurt badly. Why did you do that? You could have died!" Lora remarked, looking at Ryan.


    Although she appeared to be upset, relief flickered through her eyes. She was worried he wouldn''t wake up since he had lost a lot of blood. Ryan nced at Lora, his heart feeling warm. He asked, "Are you worried about me?"


    Lora frowned and questioned, "What kind of question is that? You almost died because of me, why wouldn''t I be worried?"


    "I guess I should get hurt more often to see that look on your face," Ryan remarked and silence fell over them.


    "Why didn''t you tell me you''re alive? Or that we have beautiful kids together?" Ryan suddenly asked, breaking the silence.


    Lora gulped, averting his gaze. "Let''s talk about that when you get better."


    "No... I want to talk about it now. I


    held back because I didn''t know you were Larisa, my wife... but now that I know, I won''t ever let you dered.


    Ryan

 Chapter 70~ The kidnapper

    "You''re still my wife, Lora... we never got divorced," Ryan pointed out, his eyes locked with Lora''s.


    Now that he was sure she was the one, Ryan had no intention of letting her go. He didn''t care if she dated someone else... she was his wife and he would do whatever it takes to take her back. Lora''s heart skipped a beat at Ryan''s words. He was right but...


    She nced into Ryan''s gray eyes, conflicting emotions flickering through her.


    Sighing, she said, "I''m not Larisa anymore... the person you were married to no longer exists."


    When Ryan frowned, Lora added, "Just pretend that Larisa is dead and I''m someone else named Lora Davis. You and I ended a long time ago and I moved on with Jason."


    Ryan''s heart sank to the pits of his stomach. He tried to get up but pain shot through his body and he groaned from the pain.


    "Mr Kingsley, can you stay put? You''re going to open the wound on your back!" Lora scolded, her eyes shing with worry.


    When Ryan saw her expression, he smiled and asked, "Why are you here? Shouldn''t you be with Jason?"


    "What kind of person would I be if I left after you got injured because of me? I''ll stay until you get better but that''s it... Ryan. You saved my life and I''m grateful, but... I don''t want to be in a rtionship where I''m an option again," Lora said. Deep down, she knew Ryan never loved her. The biggest mistake they made was getting married without the most important foundation of marriage which is love... without love, no rtionship could work.


    A painful lump lodged itself in Ryan''s throat. He recalled how he treated Lora in the past. Because of his guilt for what happened to Ivy, he became blind to what was happening around him.


    At that time, he just thought he married Lora to please his grandfather. He didn''t know he had fallen in love with her during their marriage and when she died, he felt like he had lost a huge part of his world. Although he continued to live on, he always felt empty inside. Nothing made sense anymore.


    It wasn''t until he met Lora Davis that he began to feel alive again. Now that he knew she was the woman he thought he lost, he wanted to do everything and anything in his power to make it up to her.


    He looked at her and forced himself to hold her hand, ignoring the pain in his body. Lora didn''t pull away to avoid hurting him.


    "Please, Lora. I know this isn''t the right time or ce... but, I want you back in my life. You have no idea how much I missed you... how much I regretted losing you. I cursed myself every day, hoping I could get some form of punishment for not saving you. ver told you this but... I love you, Lora."


    "I loved you then when you were Larisa and even when I thought you were dead, I still loved you and I still love you now. Please give me another chance... I''ll never make you feel like an option again. Will you forgive me?"


    Lora''s heart raced, aching even. To be honest, she was deeply touched that Ryan was willing to give up his life so easily for her. Seeing him rush into the fire for her sake stirred feelings she had buried deep within her heart.


    However, there was also Jason who had been nothing but good to her. She didn''t want to hurt him.


    Sliding her hand out from Ryan''s


    hand, she replied, "I don''t have to


    forgive you for anything


    you almost died saving my life tonight, so whatever bad blood we had between us is gone. However, I''m with Jason now."


    A pang of pain rushed through Ryan''s heart at Lora''s rejection. However, he wasn''t one to give up t wasn''t easy to be given a second chance in life and he was


    determined to not take it for granted.


    "What about the kids... E and Ethan, is it? I would like to meet them," Ryan requested.


    Lora''s eyes widened. She questioned, "How did you know their names? And how did you find out about me anyway?"


    Ryan cleared his throat, unable to


    Lora sighed... in the end, Ryan found out and would get to meet his kids. Life was indeed funny... a few hours ago she would have sworn that she would never let him into the twin''s lives. Nodding, she agreed, "Ok, but not like this. I don''t want them to meet their father while he''s covered in bandages."


    "Can I see their pictures?" Ryan asked, wanting to look at his kids again. When he saw them in Adan''s phone, everything happened so fast and he didn''t get to look at them properly. Lora took out her phone that was returned to her and looked for the twins'' picture before showing it to Ryan. She remarked, "Ethan is older than E by four minutes."


    The moment Ryan nced at the picture, his heart melted and he instantly fell in love. ''So, these are my children? I''m a father?'' He mused in his mind, warmth spreading through him.


    Right then, he didn''t care about the wounds or the pain that kept rushing through his body... Larisa was alive and she gave birth to two beautiful children for him.Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ''I''ll fight for you, Lora. I''ll fight for us to be aplete family,'' he promised in his mind.


    A thought suddenly urred to Ryan. He nced at Lora and asked, "What happened? Do you know who kidnapped you and why they wanted you dead? I swear, I''ll deal with them when I find out who it is." Lora''s face turned serious. She sighed, wondering if she should tell Ryan the truth. Would he believe her? Or would he believe Ivy?


    "I know who it is," Lora replied. "She made sure I saw her before she ruthlessly set the ce on fire."


    "She?" Ryan asked, his heart racing against his ribcage. Something told him he wouldn''t like what he would hear.


    Lora nodded. Looking into Ryan''s eyes, she revealed, "It was Ivy."


    "What?" Ryan''s eyes widened, disgust twisting his stomach. Ivy was capable of doing such a horrendous thing? "There''s more..." Lora remarked seriously. "She can walk, Ryan. Ivy isn''t disabled like she made all of us believe."

 Chapter 71~ Expose her

    Ryan''s jaw clenched and dead silence fell upon the room as he tried to take in Lora''s words.


    ''So, Ivy has been lying to me all this while? How long has it been since she could walk?'' Ryan mused, disappointment creeping into him.


    It all made sense... Ivy''s refusal to hire experts who could treat her legs. The way she insisted on always being treated by her physiotherapist and no one else...


    Deep down, he had been suspecting that there was something wrong. Even if she refused Ryan''s help, Ivy was from a wealthy family and they couldn''t fail to find expert doctors who could help her walk again.


    However, he couldn''t directly ask about it since she got hurt because of him... it would make him look ungrateful if he became suspicious.


    Who knew she had been lying to him for so long? It made him wonder just how many lies she''s told.


    "Lora... I''ve really been a fool. To think I hurt you a lot all because of Ivy''s deception... I swear, I''ll never forgive her for this. She''s going to pay and regret ever deceiving and ying with me," Ryan said through gritted teeth. Lora''s eyes widened in shock. "You believe me?"


    She didn''t expect Ryan to believe her since he had always believed Ivy.


    Ryan sighed, his heart breaking. His hatred for Ivy grew when he realised it would take some time for Lora to trust him again.


    He nced at Lora and said, "Of course, I believe you. What reason would you have to lie about such a thing? Ivy is most likely to lie about such things."


    When Ivy giarised Lora''s work and tried to y victim, Ryan realised what kind of a two-faced woman she was. How had he been so blind to the truth?T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    He recalled her constant pleas for help, the way she always used her legs to manipte him and anger red through him. How dare she make a fool out of him?


    Ryan had been genuinely feeling guilty about Ivy''s legs, thinking he was the reason she would never get to walk again. She kept him in the dark for so many years and yed him like a puppet. In the end, he lost something more precious to him than anything. The guilt Ryan felt toward Ivy instantly disappeared into thin air. She might have saved him in the past, but her actions right now were unforgivable. Not only did she lie about her condition to manipte him, but she also kidnapped and attempted to kill Lora.


    "I was surprised that she was still in her wheelchair even after six years and I thought something was amiss but it wasn''t my business... however, I was more shocked when she appeared in front of me in the warehouse walking with her two legs. She even boasted of me dying with her secret... I guess she didn''t think I would survive," Lora scoffed, shaking her head.


    A shiver ran down her spine when she recalled what happened in the warehouse. Ivy was really ruthless. She didn''t even care that she wanted to burn a human being alive.


    When Lora returned to the city, she didn''t want to be entangled with Ivy or Ryan. However, Ivy kept provoking her over and over again. Lora had no choice but to retaliate by telling Ryan the truth... she was going to unmask Ivy in front of everyone before making her pay for her crimes.


    "I''m sorry for everything, Lora. I swear, I won''t let her hurt you anymore... I''ll let her know what it means to offend a Kingsley," Ryan stated just as someone knocked at the door. "Come in," Ryan called out, frowning.


    He didn''t want anyone to disturb his time with Lora. This was the first time she was talking to him without getting angry or trying to get away from him.


    Adan entered the room and immediately eximed, "Bro, you''re so crazy! How could you rush through the fire like that?! You were so reckless!"


    Ryan smiled faintly, his heart feeling relieved. Seeing Lora unharmed made his pain worth it. He wouldn''t have forgiven himself if something had happened to Lora.


    Looking at Adan, he replied softly, "I had no choice and I couldn''t let history repeat itself."


    Lora nced at Ryan when he said that and warmth spread through her heart. Ryan did really want to save her this time. She couldn''t deny that she was very touched.


    Adan sighed, looking at Lora and


    Ryan helplessly. He shook his head and said, "You both scared the shit~~ out of me But I''m d you''re both safe... the police are investigating the matter. The thugs who kidnapped you, Lora, will be caught soon."


    He paused, hesitating.


    Lov


    "What is it?" Ryan asked, noticing that Adan was struggling to say something.


    "I don''t know if I should say this, man. I''m not sure how true this is," Adan remarked, letting out a breath.


    "Say it, Adan. If it has to do with the investigation, I need to know. Whoever did this to Lora will get punished," Ryan hissed through gritted teeth.


    Adan sighed. He ran a hand through


    his hair and remarked, "Jason


    Anderson said he followed Ivy to the warehouse. She might be involved in this kidnapping case, Ryan. I think Ivy isn''t as kind as she appears to be


    Ryan nodded and proimed, "I know... and I n to expose her in the most cruel way possible."

 Chapter 72~ The Williams plan

    At the Williams'' mansion.


    Ivy paced around in her room, her heart racing erratically.


    She hadn''t heard anything about Lora. Was she dead?


    What if she got saved on time like six years ago?


    Ivy''s stomach churned. She had to make sure Lora was dead because she already knew her secret.


    Leaving her room, she went to her father''s study.


    "Dad, can you find out from your friend, Mr Davis if Lora is still alive?" Ivy asked her father.


    David Williams frowned. He nced at his daughter and questioned, "What did you do?"


    "I... she was getting in the way. I had to get rid of her-"


    "I told you not to get involved in such things! Didn''t I say I would handle it? Why couldn''t you make Ryan fall in love with you after the path that we set for you? You wasted it and his heart got stolen by someone else!" David yelled, his nostrils ring in anger.


    "I tried, Dad! I did everything I could but even the guilt of my legs couldn''t make Ryan love me! I was desperate... please find out for me. She can''t stay alive," Ivy pleaded, her eyes welling up with tears.


    Everything would be over if Lora survived and told Ryan what she knew.N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    David Williams sighed, his daughter''s tears getting to him. He had always given Ivy whatever she wanted.


    "Fine, I''ll call Jack. However, he''s been avoiding me, so I don''t know if he will respond," David replied.


    He took out his phone and dialled Jack Davis'' number. Fortunately, Jack answered after a few rings.


    "Hello, my friend. Long time," David said on the phone. "I heard that your daughter was kidnapped. Have you found her? I was calling to offer my help."


    As David talked on the phone, Ivy waited with bated breath. If Lora was dead, Ryan would be hers forever. She didn''t regret what she did and she would do it again if it meant getting rid of someone who wanted to steal her man.


    A few minutester, David cut the call and looked at his daughter. He said, "You''re in luck tonight. Lora Davis died in the fire and they will be holding a funeral for her soon."


    Ivy''s eyes widened before a huge smile crossed her lips. She eximed, "Yes! I can finally marry Ryan, Dad! I''ll be Mrs Kingsley very soon and you can also get what you want."


    David nodded proudly and remarked, "That''s right. Once the Kingsleys be our inws, I''ll demand the preserved piece ofnd in the west that I''ve been eying for decades. That ce has some rare stones that the Kingsleys kept to themselves. Once you marry Ryan, that ce will fall into our hands."


    A wicked smirk crossed David''s lips. It seems whatever he had done in the past was worth it. Now his daughter would marry the man she wanted and he would also get what he''s always desired for decades.


    When Ivy returned to her room, she received a call from Ryan.


    Her heart raced, wondering why Ryan was suddenly calling. Did he find out about what she did?


    "Hello, Ryan? You left so suddenly during our ceremony but the guards told me that Lora was missing. Have you found her?" Ivy asked, feigning concern. "Yeah... I''m sorry I left like that. Let me make it up to you... how about we hold the ceremony again in a few days?" Ryan suggested on the phone. When Ivy heard that, her heart leaped with joy.


    ''Ryan must have decided to marry me after finding Lora dead. My n worked!'' She thought in her mind.


    "Of course! I understand why you ran


    away like that... Lora was once your work partner so you couldn''t ignore her. We can redo the ceremony in a few days. How''s Lora by the way? Has she returned home?" Ivy asked, her voice sweet and soft.


    Silence fell over the phone.


    Ryan sighed before saying in a low voice, "She''s dead."


    Ivy fake gasped. "Oh my God! What happened?"


    "I''ll tell you about itter. You rest," Ryan said before cutting the call.


    Ivy didn''t mind Ryan''sck of affection. As long as Ryan had


    called her himself to resched


    the


    engagement ceremony, she didn''t care about anything else.


    Meanwhile, at the hospital, Ryan''s eyebrows creased in irritation. He hissed, "The more I get to know the real Ivy, the more disgusted I am with myself." Adan sighed and put Ryan''s phone on the bedside table. He remarked, "I''m d her mask has been removed before you made the mistake of marrying her."


    "I wasn''t going to marry her," Ryan imed. "I was just stalling."


    "Yeah... just be careful so that she doesn''t find out Lora is alive. I''ll be back... I still need to talk to the police," Adan said and left the ward.


    Ryan nced at Lora and asked, "Have you heard what he said? So, you have to stay beside me before we expose Ivy."


    Lora frowned and replied, "I can stay home. What''s your n anyway?"


    "You will see it in a few days. I want everyone to know who Ivy Williams really is before I throw her in jail," Ryan dered.


    The door to the ward suddenly opened and in walked Charles Kingsley and Diane Kingsley.


    "Ryan, Lora! The two of you are ok! Thank God!" Charles rushed towards Lora and held her hands. "When I heard that you were trapped in a fire again was so afraid, Larisa. I''m so happy Ryan has saved you this time." ,


    Ryan frowned at his grandfather. He questioned, "Did you already know Lora is Larisa?"


    Charles scoffed and red at his grandson. He said, "Unlike you, I''m not dumb! How could you not recognise your own wife?" Diane gasped! She mped a hand over her mouth and tears rolled down her cheeks.


    "You''re really Larisa! You''re alive!"


    Lora blushed and replied shyly, "Um... yes. I''m sorry for lying-"


    Before Lora could tell what was happening, Diane approached her and wrapped her arms around her.


    "Thank you for being alive! My brother can finally be happy!" Diane remarked.


    She pulled back and looked between Lora and Ryan before asking, "Are you two back together?"


    "Soon."


    "No."


    Ryan and Lora answered at the same time and silence fell over the room.

 Chapter 73~ Superhero

    Charles Kingsley narrowed his eyes. He nced at Lora and asked, "Why not? In the eyes of thew, you two are still husband and wife." "Um-"


    "Grandpa, Lora and I will work things out by ourselves," Ryan said and Lora gave him a grateful look.


    "If you say so... I''m just d that Larisa is alive! So, when am I meeting my grandkids?" Charles asked and Lora''s eyes widened.


    "You even know about the twins?" Lora''s face had a question mark. Did Ryan''s grandfather ask someone to investigate her?


    Charles nodded proudly and answered, "Of course. I found out first before everyone else. However, I won''t tell you how... it''s a secret."


    "Twins? What twins?" Diane asked, feeling confused and then a lightbulb went off in her head. Her mouth rounded in shock before she eximed, "You and Ryan have twins? So, I''m an aunt?" Lora nodded, a smile forming on her lips at the thought of her children. She replied, "Yes. A boy and a girl. I''m sure they will be happy to meet you, Diane."


    "Ah! I can''t wait! I''m an aunt! I''m going to spoil them rotten!" Diane proimed. "Oh Ryan, who knew you were already a father? Congrattions bro."


    Ryan nodded but sadness crept into his heart. His children don''t know he exists. He didn''t me Lora because of the past. She must have felt the need to fake her death because she was hurt...Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    It was all his fault for being so stupid. How could he believe Ivy''s deception so easily? In the end, he lost plenty of time. The time that he was away from his family could never be regained and that''s a regret he would have to live with for the rest of his life. Ryan never wanted to be like his father. He always thought that if he had kids, he would be there for them no matter what. Knowing he had missed six years hurt him a lot.


    ''Will they ept me?'' He couldn''t help but worry.


    Ryan was a powerful businessman who rarely got nervous. However, when it came to Lora and his children whom he had never met, he couldn''t help being nervous. He was afraid they wouldn''t want him in their lives since he wasn''t present in the first ce. "Oh, by the way, Dad said he will visit you tomorrow since Celeste is not feeling well," Diane added and Ryan frowned.


    "He shouldn''te. I don''t want him here," he responded coldly.


    "He''s still our father, Ryan and I''m sure he''s worried about you-"


    "If he''s so worried, why couldn''t he visit his son now? That woman beside him keeps poisoning him. When will he wake up?" Charles remarked, feeling frustrated.


    "Just forget about him... I don''t care if hees or not," Ryan said, his eyebrows knitting in anger.


    Lora noticed this and reached over to hold and squeeze his hand. She uttered, "Hey, calm down. Remember what the doctor said? You shouldn''t get worked up."


    When he felt Lora''s hand on his, Ryan smiled widely. He replied, "I''ll be calm as long as you''re here."


    Charles watched their interaction and a small smile stered his lips. He suddenly cleared his throat and said, "I talked to the doctor before I came here... Ryan needs a lot of care at this stage. His burns are pretty bad and they can scar if he doesn''t receive extra care." "Oh, we can hire extra personal nurses to take care of him," Diane suggested.


    Charles sighed heavily. He ced his hands behind his back and looked up at the ceiling before looking back down and saying, "Sadly, thepany has been doing pretty badly these days. We can''t afford to hire personal nurses for Ryan. This VIP room already costs a fortune. I guess... I''ll have to take care of him even though I''m so old."


    Lora, "..."


    Ryan, "..."


    Diane, "..."


    "Grandpa, what do you mean? We have-" Diane was about to remind Charles about how rich they were but Charles gave her a look that made her close her mouth.


    "It''s a pity. Thave no choice but to look after my grandson even though I''m too old to look after someone else. Ouch, my back,¡± Charles winced, crouching over and resting his hands on Ryan''s bed.


    Lora nced at Charles. She already knew the old man was just being dramatic. How could the Kingsleys worry about bills?


    However, she offered, "I''ll stay and take care of Ryan. He got hurt while trying to save me after all."


    Although Lora had a few bandages on her arms, her wounds were merely bruises. Ryan had taken most of the impact and got terribly hurt.


    "Really?" Charles stood up straight


    his eyes gleaming with joy. "Are you


    really going to stay with Ryan? mean... are you going to stay and


    take care of him?"


    Lora nodded and replied, "Yes, I will. I just have to go home and say bye to E and Ethan. I''ll stay with Ryan until he feels better."


    Charles grinned from ear to ear. He took out his phone and stood at the edge of the bed. "Let''s take a selfie. I want to send it to my best friends." When he took a selfie, Charles sent it to Ethan with the caption, [Your mother is safe. She was saved by your father.]


    "Ok, my back is acting up again. I''ll be backter," Charles remarked. He looked at Lora and said, "Please take care of my grandson for me." "I''ll do my best," Lora replied, smiling.


    Charles nced at Ryan and winked. Ryan hid a smirk before secretly raising a thumbs-up towards his grandfather.


    Meanwhile, Ethan received Charles'' message. He looked at the picture and frowned.


    "Ethan, why is Daddy in bandages?" E asked as she looked at the tablet.


    "He saved Mommy from a fire," Ethan replied, looking at the picture.


    "Wow! Is Daddy a superhero?" E asked with wide eyes. "Daddy is so cool."


    Ethan scoffed and said, "Well, he''s done something good for once but I won''t forgive him unless he gets rid of that evil woman."

 Chapter 74~ What if...

    "Are you ok?" Jason asked Lora on their way to her apartment.


    When Lora left Ryan''s ward, she found Jason waiting for her outside. He offered to take her home for a shower and a change of clothes. Even though he had a lot on his mind, he didn''t say anything to Lora apart from that question. Lora nced at him and sighed. Jason was so good to her, but she just couldn''t bring herself to love him.


    However, she couldn''t hurt him either when he had done nothing to deserve that.


    "I''m ok, Jason. I wasn''t hurt that muchpared to Ryan. He''s in a bad state," Lora replied.


    An awkward silence fell upon them for a few seconds before Jason remarked, "I wish I was the one who saved you."


    Lora frowned. She nced at Jason and said, "Don''t say that again... I already feel guilty about Ryan''s injury, I wouldn''t want someone else getting hurt because of me."


    "I know but... perhaps him saving you would make you love him again," Jason uttered in a low voice.


    "Although Ryan saved me, I can''t just forget about how he treated me in the past," Lora responded, her eyes turning sad at the memory.


    Jason kept quiet but deep down, he knew that things between them had changed. Lora wasn''t as weing as she usually was towards him.


    It didn''t take long for them to arrive at Lora''s apartment building. Lora looked at Jason and said, "I''ll rest a bit but I promised Ryan I would stay and take care of him in the hospital." Jason clenched his hands around the steering wheel tightly, his knuckles turning white. He was jealous but he didn''t show his emotions on his face.


    Smiling, he replied, "I understand. Since he''s hurt, that''s the least you can do."


    Lora smiled, loving how understanding Jason was. She bid him goodbye and went up to her apartment.


    The moment Lora stepped into her apartment, the twins rushed towards her.


    "Mommy, you''re back!" E eximed. She looked up at Lora and asked, "Are you ok?"


    Ethan looked at Lora worriedly. She was wearing Jason''s jacket but her dress inside was torn and dirty.T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    "Of course, I''m ok! See, I can walk and talk... I''m all good!" Lora replied, smiling widely.


    The twins already knew what had happened through their great grandfather but they didn''t tell their mother that they knew.


    Ethan grabbed Lora''s hand and pulled her towards the couch, saying, "You rest, Mommy. You must be tired. Should I give you a foot massage?"


    Loraughed and willingly let her son "pull" her toward the couch. She said, "Let me take a shower first and then you two can give me a foot massage, how''s that?"


    "Ok!" The twins said in unison.


    When Lora went to her room, Bianca who had been babysitting the kids followed her. She closed the door and asked, "Girl, you got me so worried. Thank God you''re safe. Has Ivy been arrested?"


    Lora shook her head. She replied,


    "No she hasn''t but she will be


    arrested soon. Ryan said he has a


    n to expose her. I also want to find evidence of how she arranged my kidnapping six years ago + want herto rot in jail. She''s a danger to all ofus."


    Bianca nodded. "I can''t wait for her to pay for her crimes. How did Ryan find out about you and the kids though? Did he figure it out on his own?"


    Lora frowned and shrugged before replying, "He hasn''t told me how he found out. Everyone now knows who I really am and Ryan asked if we could get back together..."


    Bianca folded her arms across her chest and arched an eyebrow. "And?"


    "And what?" Lora asked.


    "What did you say? Do you want to get back together?" Bianca pushed.


    Lora bit her lower lip. She recalled how Ryan saved her... the look on his face when he thought she was dead. His confession as he held her in his arms... It all felt surreal. Was this the same Ryan she was married to six years ago?


    "I''m with Jason now," Lora replied absentmindedly. "I can''t hurt him."


    Bianca sighed. She eximed, "Come on, Lora. You''re just feeling sorry for Jason. You don''t even love him. Don''t you think leading him on is worse than breaking his heart right now?"


    "I don''t know, Bee. I had made a


    decision never to love again in my life. The truth is I just buried my feelings and raised walls around my heart can''t believe Ryan cracked those walls so easily when Jason couldn''t," Lora admitted.


    "So what''s your n?" Bianca asked. "Are you just going to forget how Ryan put his ex-girlfriend first before you? Even if he saved you now, he didn''t save you back then. You might still love him but what''s the


    guarantee that he will treat you


    better this time around?"


    Lora''s heart clenched. She recalled the words that Ryan spoke when they were both trapped in the fire... she could feel his pain and how much he regretted not saving her. But, was that enough to forget about the past and move on? Was she willing to take a risk? What if she got hurt again?


    "Look, I''m not discouraging you from reuniting with your husband but girl, stay woke. Why didn''t he report Ivy immediately? What if he''s just trying to help her escape with the guise of wanting to expose her?" Bianca reasoned.


    Lora''s heart sank at her words. She didn''t know what Ryan''s n was but what if his love for Ivy was really that deep that he was willing to buy her time for her to escape?


    "I''ll put a n in ce but let me wait and see what Ryan is up to," Lora remarked. "Either way, Ivy is going down."

 Chapter 75~ Trust

    Lora quickly showered and went to the living room. As promised, the twins gave her a clumsy foot massage.


    "Do you feel better, Mommy?" E asked as she tried her best to use her little fingers to massage one of Lora''s legs.


    Although Lora felt like she was being tickled, her heart felt full. She smiled and said, "Thank you so much... the massage has made me feel better."


    Ethan had a serious look on his face as he worked on Lora''s other leg, pretending to be a professional masseur.


    Bianca chuckled and took a picture of this scene. She remarked, "You''re so lucky to have such adorable twins, Lora. They love you so much."


    "I love Mommy and since Daddy is not yet here, I''m going to continue giving her foot massages and rubbing her back," E proimed and Lora''s heart skipped a beat.


    The kids had never bothered her about meeting their father. However, it didn''t mean she couldn''t see the longing look in their eyes each time they saw other children with their fathers at the theme park.


    Looking down at the twins, she asked, "E, Ethan, would you like to meet your Daddy?"


    E''s eyes lit up. She looked up at Lora and answered, "Yes! Is heing home now?"


    "What about you, Ethan?" Lora asked, noticing how quiet her son was.


    "I''ll meet him if you want me to meet him," Ethan answered calmly.


    "Of course Mommy wants us to meet Daddy, she loves Daddy, right Mommy? We wouldn''t exist if Mommy didn''t love Daddy," E remarked and Lora''s eyes widened.


    This little girl had no filter.


    She chuckled and reached over to lightly pinch E''s cheek, saying, "Who taught you how to talk like that, huh? You will meet your Daddy in a few days."


    "Yay! Are we going to be a real family now?" E asked, her eyes twinkling with joy and sadness crept into Lora''s heart.


    It seems no matter how much love she showered her children, they still felt the absence of their father.


    Lora grew up thinking she was an orphan, so she knew exactly how it felt to grow up without parents. Her children deserved to know their biological father... she couldn''t deprive them of a father''s love and care just because they were not together anymore. "E, I told you. We can only be a real family if Daddy makes Mommy happy," Ethan remarked with a pout. He nced at Lora and said, "Don''t worry, Mommy. I''ll still protect you if Daddy doesn''te back."


    Lora''s heart was filled with warmth. At least she knew, if anything else were to go wrong in the world, she had her two adorable babies by her side.


    ...


    A little whileter...


    Ryan was resting when the door to the ward opened and Lora walked in.


    His eyes lit up and he let out a sigh of relief.


    "You came..." he remarked, ncing at Lora, smiling.


    "Yes, I did. I promised to take care of you, remember?" Lora replied, walking into the ward.N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    She noticed the te of untouched food on the bedside table and frowned. "You didn''t eat?"


    "I can''t use my hands for now," Ryan responded, an innocent look in his eyes.


    Lora arched an eyebrow and said, "That''s what nurses are for, Mr Kingsley."


    "I don''t like just anyone to feed me," Ryan replied, his eyebrows creasing. "Only my wife can feed me."


    Lora let out a sigh. She rolled her eyes and asked, "Have you always been such a baby?"


    "I''m a patient, Lora... can''t you be a little nice?" Ryan remarked, arching an eyebrow. Lora nced at him and when she saw the bandages around his body, her heart ached. She sighed and took the te of food before saying, "I''ll feed you."


    Ryan grinned and did a happy dance in his heart. Did this mean Lora was softening up to him?


    As Lora began feeding him, she recalled Bianca''s words and her stomach churned. She nced at Ryan and asked, "Do you really want to punish Ivy? Or are you just stalling for her to get away with everything again?" Ryan furrowed his eyebrows. He suddenly grabbed the te from Lora and put it on the bedside table. Despite the sharp pain that red through his body, he forced himself up and sat with his back leaning against the wall. "Do you really think I would let Ivy get away with everything?" He questioned, his heart aching knowing Lora still didn''t trust him.


    ''I probably deserve that... but I''ll do my best to make her trust me again,'' Ryan said in his mind.


    Lora lowered her eyes. She sighed


    and replied, "don''t know what to think, Ryan..You''ve let Ivy get away with a lot of things in the past. It was only recently that I heard it''s


    del


    because she saved you in the past. How do I know if you''re not just protecting her right now?"


    "Lora," Ryan''s voice was hoarse as he looked into Lora''s hazel eyes. "I''m not protecting vy.... I can''t protect her after what she did to you... I just want to deal with her in the best way possible, Arresting her immediately won''t be enough punishment for her. I want her mask off before the entire world. I promise I''ll never protect her again. I think I''ve repaid her enough for saving me... it''s high time I focussed on my family- the real people that matter to me."


    Lora looked into Ryan''s eyes, trying to search for something. When she saw that he was being sincere, she nodded and said, "I''ll trust you for now. I hope you don''t disappoint me, Ryan. Otherwise..."


    She left the threat hanging and Ryan


    gulped. He recalled how Lora was determined to ignore him when she just returned... the way she hated him so much, he could see it in her eyes. He never wanted to experience that ever again.


    Holding her hand, he dered, "I swear on my life. Ivy will pay for her crimes and I''ll prove to you that I love you so much."

 Chapter 76~ The Thugs

    "Ryan, wake up it''s time for your meds," Lora said to the man who was sleeping soundly on the hospital bed.


    A few days had passed and Ryan''s injuries had started to get better. Throughout the days, Lora stayed by his side as she promised. However, the man spent most of those days sleeping due to the strong pain medication he was being given. When there was no response from Ryan, Lora frowned. It''s normal for someone to oversleep when not well but she had noticed that Ryan was taking longer to wake up the past few days.


    She reached for him and shook him lightly, saying, "Ryan, wake up, it''s time for your medication."


    Lora frowned. Ryan was usually a light sleeper. Howe he couldn''t wake up even after she shook him?


    "R-Ryan?" She tried again, shaking him lightly.


    However, Ryan''s head suddenly lolled to the side, making Lora''s heart drop to her feet.


    She nced at Ryan and noticed his face was pale and his lips looked too dry. Fear crept into her and twisted her gut. He looked lifeless...


    "R-Ryan, wake up. You''re scaring me," Lora called out, her stomach churning.


    Why did she only notice now how pale Ryan''s skin looked? Didn''t he have a blood transfusion when he was brought in a few days ago?


    Lora''s heart raced as she got closer. She raised her hand and ced her index finger under Ryan''s nose to check his breathing.


    "Ryan-"


    Ryan suddenly grabbed Lora''s hand and opened his eyes. He arched an eyebrow and asked, "Why are you calling me so desperately? Did you think I won''t wake up?"


    Lora''s eyes widened. She gulped and stammered, "I - I wasn''t calling you desperately. You weren''t waking up, so I got worried."


    Ryan smiled from ear to ear. He brought Lora''s hand to his mouth and pressed a soft kiss on her fingers before saying, "I''m happy to see you so worried about me... but don''t worry, I''m fine. I have no intention of leaving you soon, my wife." Lora''s cheeks flushed a light pink. She tried to pull her hand back but Ryan was holding it firmly. How could he still be so powerful when he was injured?


    "You... it''s time for your medication," Lora uttered, averting her gaze.


    "Seeing you by my side makes me feel better," Ryan remarked. He kissed each of Lora''s fingers before releasing her hand. "How I wish those were your lips." Lora blushed and said, "Ryan, I told-"


    "I know... I''m not going to force you but I won''t give up on you, Lora," Ryan replied, a small smile crossing his lips. "I''ll make you fall in love with me again."


    Lora''s heart raced as their eyes locked, several emotions swirling between them. However, thatsted only a few seconds as the door to the ward was suddenly opened. "Ryan! We found the thugs!"


    Both Ryan and Lora turned to look at Adan who had walked into the room.


    "That''s great... have they talked?" Ryan asked.


    Adan shook his head and replied, "Unfortunately, no. We''ve tried all methods but they won''t say who hired them."


    Lora furrowed her eyebrows and asked, "What thugs are you two talking about?"


    Ryan nced at Lora and exined, "I''ve been re-investigating your kidnapping case. I want to bring the culprits to book."


    Lora''s heart skipped a beat. She didn''t know that Ryan was looking into the kidnapping incident as well. Lora had began to search for evidence that Ivy was involved in the kidnapping six years ago but so far, she hadn''t found anything. "Actually... before the thugs set the warehouse on fire six years ago, they mentioned that a woman wanted me gone," Lora remarked.


    Ryan''s stomach plummeted. He


    nced at his friend, Adan, his


    brows meeting before saying, "I''m "I''m sure it''s y. I was thinking that the method of killing was the same. They tried to kill you with fire fire six years ago and Ivy did the same


    again."


    Adan nodded. "That''s why we need to interrogate these guys to have them confess to the police. Thugs usually keep evidence to protect themselves, so they might be able to have something on Ivy."


    Ryan clenched his hands into fists and said through gritted teeth, "Ivy Williams. I swear, I won''t rest until she pays for her crimes. She ruined my life."


    "She will pay for her crimes," Adanmented.


    "Where are thugs right now?" Ryan asked. "ed to interrogate them myself."


    Lora''s eyes widened when Ryan pulled out his IV and got up from the bed. She yelled, "Where do you think you''re going with those injuries?"


    "ed to get the evidence I need to make sure Ivy rots in jail," Ryan said, his eyes shing at the thought of the lies that Ivy told him.N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    Whenever he thought about how he fell for Ivy''s deception, his blood boiled with anger. How could he be so stupid?


    Lora frowned and pushed Ryan down on the bed, saying, "You''re not going anywhere, Mr Kingsley. You already have the ceremony to attend tomorrow, if you move today, you might disturb your wounds which are healing."


    Ryan smiled, his heart soaring when


    he saw how concerned Lora was about him. He grabbed her hand and said, "Thank you for worrying about me... but these injuries are not that painful. I need to find evidence against Ivy as soon as possible. The ceremony tomorrow will not only be her downfall, but I want her to end up behind bars."


    Lora sighed. She suggested, "I''lle with you."


    "No... it''s dangerous. We are dealing with thugs here... anything can happen," Ryan objected.


    "Don''t underestimate me... I''m not a weak female who needs to be protected. If you''re going there in your condition, then I should be there to make sure you don''t exert yourself."


    Ryan sighed. He didn''t want to put Lora in any form of danger. However, he didn''t want to control her either. She was capable of making her own decisions.


    Nodding, he said, "Fine, but if anything goes wrong, I want you out of there as fast as you can."


    And so, the three of them left the hospital and Adan drove them to an abandoned warehouse in the outskirts of the city.


    Lora frowned and remarked, "A warehouse again? Couldn''t you find a better venue? I have horrible memories of warehouses."


    Adan scratched the back of his neck


    and said, "This is the only venue we


    could find in such a short time. It was this or handing them over to the police. But these are thugs who''ve been in and out of prison. We won''t know the truth unless we use other


    means."


    The trio entered the warehouse and found the thugs inside surrounded by Ryan''s men. They were kneeling on the ground with their hands tied behind their backs. Lora gasped when she saw the thugs. It was really them... the men who almost burned her alive.


    Fear and trauma crept into Lora. She grabbed Ryan''s shirt tightly, her body trembling.


    Ryan noticed this and stopped. He pulled Lora into his arms and said, "Don''t be afraid. I''m here. I won''t let anyone hurt you."


    Lora didn''t know why but as she was in Ryan''s arms, she suddenly felt safe...


    She pulled back and nodded before bravely turning to face the thugs. The leader recognised her and his eyes widened. "I-It''s you! You''re a ghost!"

 Chapter 77~ First mission

    "Don''te near me! You''re a ghost! Stay away!" The thug yelled, his eyes and mouth rounding in shock. Was he seeing things? This woman who had appeared beside Ryan Kingsley no longer exists in this world.


    He shared looks with his friends who were equally terrified and his heart jumped to his throat. They saw her too... which means she was alive. But how?


    "It can''t be... how are you still alive? I killed you myself!" The thug yelled, his body trembling from fear.


    He was shocked to see the woman he had burned alivee back to life. Six years ago after they made a huge amount of money from working with Ivy Williams, the thugs left the Country to avoid being caught. However, they ran out of money and didn''t really have connections abroad. So they decided to return to Moonstone City and see if they could reim their turf.


    What they didn''t expect was to be caught by Ryan Kingsley''s men the moment they entered the City.


    Didn''t Ivy Williams say the woman they killed wasn''t that important to Ryan? Why was he still on the case six yearster?


    What was even more shocking was the woman staring at him at that moment. She was supposed to be dead! Did she be a ghost ande back to haunt him?


    "No, I''m not a ghost. I''m very much alive and will happy to see you punished for your crimes," Lora hissed, anger ring through her.


    She could still remember how helpless she felt when she was trapped in the warehouse with searing mes all around her. It was a traumatic experience.


    "That''s impossible! I burned you alive!" The thug shook his head, his eyes bloodshot. "The warehouse exploded! No one could survive that!"


    "What''s there to be proud of about burning someone alive? You''re criminals who deserve to be hanged to death!" Lora hissed, her chest heaving from her rapid breathing.


    Ryan saw that Lora was getting emotional, so he held her hand and stepped forward. He nced at the thugs and ordered, "You''re going to tell me what you know about the kidnapping incident from six years ago or else..."


    The threat was left hanging but Ryan turned to look at the table on the side that had torture tools. There was even a cat o'' nine tail whip, a weapon that could tear one''s flesh brutally just from a few whips.


    "Who instructed you to kidnap Lora? Was it Ivy? Did she have herself kidnapped to fool me?" Ryan questioned, his jaw tight. "Answer me or feel my wrath!"


    However, the thug suddenlyughed and remarked, "You''re not going to get anything out of us. We are not afraid of going to jail and we are numb to pain... you can torture us all you want... but you won''t get any information from us." The thug thought that if he kept Ivy''s secret, she would help them out and reward them handsomely. After all, she too was a wealthy woman.


    It was better to ally with someone they were in the same shoes with.


    Ryanughed. He was wearing a long-sleeved shirt, so no one could tell that he was injured. His aura was still powerful and dominating despite the pain rippling through his body.


    He said, "If you say so... then how about I use another method? I need to find the evidence that Ivy instructed you to kidnap Lora. If you tell me everything, whatever money Ivy gave you, I''ll triple it."


    Lora widened her eyes and eximed, "Ryan! No! You can''t waste money on these thugs!"


    Adan also chipped in, saying, "Lora''s right, Ryan. We don''t negotiate with criminals."


    Ryan just smiled. He knew what he was doing. These thugs only cared about money. Torturing them wouldn''t work and they would end up not getting any information at all.


    He looked at the thugs and repeated,


    "I already know that Ivy was behind the kidnapping. I''ll give you triple the money that Ivy gave you... Give me the evidence of her crime and testify against her. Do we have a deal?"


    The thugs nced at each other. They were doomed to go back to prison anyway. But prison life was a little better if one had money.


    The leader of the thugs looked at Ryan and agreed, "It''s a deal. We will give you everything. Including the bank transactions showing how Miss Williams paid us millions to stage that kidnapping."


    ...


    "I''ve handed the evidence to the police. Tomorrow, Ivy will be arrested at the ceremony," Adan said when he returned to the hospital.


    After dealing with the thugs, Ryan and Lora returned to the hospital quickly because Ryan had to have his wounds cleaned and his bandages changed.


    Ryan nodded, his expression turning serious. He remarked, "Right now, Ivy thinks I''m too busy with work, which is good because then, she won''t try to bother me and we can hide the fact that Lora is still alive." He sighed and looked at Lora before saying, "I can''t wait to get this over and done with so that I can meet our children."N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    Lora smiled. The children kept


    asking when they would meet their


    father, however, she still didn''t want them to meet him in the hospital. At the moment, they were staying at their grandparents'' house since Lora was mostly at the hospital with Ryan.


    When Adan left, Lora looked at Ryan and said, "Thank you for saving me, Ryan. I really thought I was going to die this time... thinking of leaving my children was a nightmare."


    "Our," Ryan corrected and when Lora looked at him with a question mark on her face, he rified. "Our children... I''ll protect you and our children with my life from now on. I promise."


    Lora smiled, her heart doing a little flutter. She didn''t know what the future held but at the moment, she refrained from making any life-changing decisions.


    To change the subject, Lora asked, "Are you really ok with doing this to Ivy?"


    She still had some doubts. After all, Ivy had been a part of Ryan''s life for so long. It was hard to believe that he suddenly had a three hundred and sixty degree change and wanted nothing to do with Ivy- his life savior. Ryan narrowed his eyes at Lora. He asked, "Are you feeling bad for her after all that she''s done to you?"


    Lora shook her head, anger shing through her eyes as she replied, "Not at all... It''s just that, this is new... I''m used to you always defending and supporting Ivy."


    Ryan sighed heavily. He grasped


    Lora''s hand in his and said, "I regret


    doing all that..... It was her choice to¡Á save me just like it was my choice to save you. I don''t owe Ivy anything just like you don''t owe me anything for saving you... I wish I had seen things this way before... I wouldn''t have been deceived by her."


    Lora bit her lower lip. She raised her hand, offering Ryan a handshake before saying, "Then, let''s teach Ivy Williams a lesson tomorrow."


    Ryan smiled and shook Lora''s hand. He replied, "I like this... our first mission together."


    Lora rolled her eyes but a small smile crossed her lips.


    Indeed, it was strange to work together with Ryan like this... but she couldn''t deny that they had grown close in the few days that they spent together in the hospital. Perhaps they could be friends since he was the father of their children...

 Chapter 78~ Get it off

    At the Williams'' mansion the next day...


    Ivy dressed up in a gorgeous emerald green gown, ready for the engagement ceremony. Although she hadn''t seen Ryan since Lora''s kidnapping incident because he imed to be busy, she didn''t really care since Lora was gone for good now. Whether Ryan liked it or not, Ivy was the only one he could marry in this lifetime.


    A smirk crossed her red-coloured lips as she stared at herself in the mirror. She was beautiful.


    Her blonde hair cascaded down her shoulders like a waterfall, her skin as fair as snow and her lips were shaped like a bow. She had beautiful green eyes that could make any man fall for her.


    So, why didn''t Ryan love her? Why did he only have eyes for Lora? Even when Lora had another man, Ryan still kept her in his heart.


    Ivy frowned, irritation ring through her at the thought. It didn''t matter anyway... in the end, she was getting what she always wanted-power.


    Being a Kingsley meant being the most powerful person in the city. She wanted to be better than everyone else.


    "Ivy, are you done? The ceremony will start soon," Celine Williams, Ivy''s mother, walked into Ivy''s room and asked.


    She paused when she saw Ivy standing by the floor-to-length mirror, her brows meeting. "Be careful. What if it was Ryan who entered your room? He would have found out about your legs."


    Ivy nced at her mother and replied, "Ryan would nevere here looking for me, Mom. Unless it''s to confront me about something."


    Celine sighed. She got closer and took a hairbrush before helping Ivy smoothen her hair. As she did this, she nced at her daughter through the mirror and asked, "So, how long do you intend to be in that wheelchair? Ryan is practically yours now. Are you going to spend the rest of your life in that chair?"


    Ivy shook her head and replied, "No, Mom. After Ryan and I get married, Doctor Richard will miraculously find an expert Doctor who will manage to treat my legs and vo! I''ll be able to walk again."


    In Ivy''s mind, as long as she was Mrs Kingsley, she didn''t have to use her legs to make Ryan give in to her. Once it was official, she nned to get rid of the wheelchair and use her legs normally again. Celine frowned. She nodded and said, "That''s a good n. Just make sure no one finds out before that... the Kingsleys look like they are kind but they can be ruthless to those who offend them." "Don''t worry, Mom. Due to the past that I share with Ryan... no matter what I do, he has no choice but to forgive me," Ivy remarked, a smug smirk on her lips.


    Celine smiled. She ced the hairbrush on the vanity table before saying, "There, you''re ready now. Let''s go. I would have loved it if your husband-to-be would havee to pick you up himself." "Mom, don''t concern yourself with that. What matters to me is bing Mrs Kingsley... once my goal is reached, I can do anything I want to do," Ivy said, smiling proudly.


    She thought in her mind, ''With Lora gone, Ryan is finally mine. Soon, it will be official.''


    Ivy smirked at the memory of how smoothly everything went. Although her father had failed to attend Lora''s funeral, it was obvious from the tight security at the Davis'' mansion that they were in mourning.


    They must have been devastated to lose their daughter whom they had found only a few years ago. A cruel look shed through Ivy''s eyes as she mused, ''Don''t me me, Lora. me yourself for falling for a man who wasn''t meant to be yours.''


    ...


    An hourter, Ivy, wearing a smug, satisfied smile of a victor, arrived at the venue with her parents.


    She sat in her wheelchair with an air of triumph, moving around the hall like she owned the ce. The elegant hall was packed this time... reporters from different media houses had been invited to cover the ceremony.


    Although Ivy didn''t know why Ryan would invite so many reporters, she was d that he was now willing to show her off to everyone.


    Perhaps this was his way of apologising for the way he left their ceremony a few days ago.


    el?


    Ivy smiled for the photographers, making sure they got as many pictures of her as possible. After all, tomorrow she would be on the front page of every newspaper. She looked around and found Ryan standing next to his friend, Adan Nicholson.


    He was wearing a navy suit, looking as handsome as ever and he was talking to a few important guests.


    She approached Ryan and thetter smiled when he saw her. He remarked, "The ceremony can now begin since you''re now here."


    The guests that Ryan was talking to looked at Ivy and said, "Congrattions on the engagement, Miss Williams."


    Ivy smiled and replied, "Thank you...st time, something happened so we couldn''t go through with it. Ryan had arranged a much bigger event this time as an apology... I hope you don''t mind being invited to our ceremony twice." The guests smiled and shook their heads, saying, "Not at all. Mr Kingsley is like the God of Moonstone City. If he says jump, we jump, hahaha."


    Ryan nodded at Ivy before walking towards the stage and silence fell over the ce when he took the microphone and raised it to his lips.


    "Ladies and Gentlemen, thank you


    for joining us again," Ryan began, his voice deep and calm. He nced at Ivy, his face emotionless as he said, "I would like to invite Ivy Williams to the stage so we can officially get engaged."


    The crowd erupted in apuse and Ivy''s heart soared high. Even though Ryan wasn''t warm towards her, at least he was still going through with the ceremony.


    She wheeled herself towards the stage and faced Ryan, a huge smile on her lips. "Finally, Ryan... you''re going to fulfil your promise."


    Ryan didn''t reply to that. He cleared his throat and looked at Ivy before saying, "There''s something I want to give you before we proceed... it''s a special surprise from me to you. I hope you like it." Ivy blinked, her heart racing. A surprise?


    She didn''t expect this... Was he


    going to give her a surprise gift in


    §Ö


    front of everyone? That move would surely dispose of the rumours that Ryan didn''t love her since everyone


    was saying that when he abandoned their engagement ceremony a few days ago.


    Ivy had a smug smile and made sure to keep her best angle for the pictures as she waited for her surprise.


    Adan went up the stage and gave Ryan a box before returning to the audience.


    Ryan nced at Ivy and smiled before saying, "ed you to close your eyes for a moment... that way, this surprise will be more effective."


    Ivy''s heart beat heavily like a drum. She was so excited! What gift was it? A diamond ne? Or maybe shares of the Kingsley group? She closed her eyes, her heart still racing in anticipation.Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    The crowd was silent, watching silently as Ryan did his thing. They too couldn''t wait to see what gift Ryan had for Ivy.


    Ryan opened the box and ced his gift on Ivy''sp. He smirked and urged, "Now you can open your eyes."


    Ivy opened her eyes and the next thing she did was jump out of her wheelchair, screaming, "Ah! Get it off! Get it off! Ah!"

 Chapter 79~ I still won

    Earlier, before Ivy arrived at the venue, Ryan nced at Adan and asked, "Is the gift ready?"


    Adanughed when he remembered what gift Ryan was talking about. He shook his head and said, "You know what... I had forgotten how crazy you can be. How did you even think of that?"


    Ryan smirked. He remarked, "Ivy is cunning... if I just used her of being able to walk in public, do you think she would willingly ept defeat? She would probably put on a show and make us look like we are bullying a poor disabled woman." With Ivy''s acting skills, Ryan was very sure she would manage to weave herself out of a difficult situation. What he wanted was to expose her clearly in front of everybody so that everyone knows what kind of snake she was.


    "Well, I must say your n is genius. Ivy won''t even realise that she''s exposed herself until a few secondster," Adan responded. "I have it close by. When you need it, I''ll bring it to you."


    Ryan nodded. Tonight, he was determined to deal with Ivy once and for all.


    Soon, Ivy arrived and Ryan''s stomach churned when she approached him and smiled sweetly. How could she still be happy after causing someone''s death? Was she even human?


    Ryan was so disgusted with himself. This was the person he trusted just because she had saved his life twice. He was such a fool.


    Now that he saw her for the evil woman that she was, pretending to like her made him feel sick. Just the thought of getting engaged to her, even if it was fake, made him want to throw up.


    However, for Lora and his children, he had to stay strong and maintain his fa?ade. Only then would he be able to punish Ivy.


    For Ivy, her reputation was very important... she really cared about what others, especially high-society elites thought of her. Exposing her in front of the whole country would be the best punishment... she would get arrested in front of everyone and everyone would know the real her.


    This was Ivy''s worst nightmare and Ryan would make sure he gave her the best experience.


    He went to the stage and invited Ivy to join him on the stage. When he told her he had a gift for her, he scoffed when he saw the huge grin on her face.T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    However, he maintained his poker face and got the box that contained Ivy''s special gift from Adan.


    A smirk crossed Ryan''s lips when he took out the gift and ced it on Ivy''sp.


    Gasps echoed around the hall before it fell intoplete silence. Everyone was looking at the gift that Ryan had put on Ivy''sp in shock.


    Ryan smiled and told Ivy. "Ivy, you can now open your eyes and see your gift."


    Ivy smiled smugly and slowly opened her eyes. However, when she looked at herp, she saw something shiny slithering on herp and flicking its tongue at her. Before Ivy could tell what was happening, her heart jumped out of her chest just as she jumped out of her wheelchair before jumping around hysterically.


    "AH! Get it off! Get it off! Ah!"


    "I hate snakes! Ah! Take it away!"


    She felt like something crawled down her leg and she jumped higher than before as though she was in a skipping ropepetition.


    "AH! Ryan! Get it off me, please!" Ivy screamed, forgetting about herdylike image.


    The hall fell silent as they watched Ivy jump like her life depended on it.


    Wasn''t she disabled? Howe her legs were so strong? Could it be a miracle?


    A murmur swept through the crowd as they all nced at Ivy with shock and confusion. She didn''t look like someone who had suddenly regained feeling in her legs. What did this mean? Had she been pretending to be disabled?


    The media people who were around weren''t toozy to capture videos of Ivy jumping around after jumping from her wheelchair.


    This was big news!


    Ivy Williams could walk! She had been pretending for several years and yed the victim. What a vicious woman!


    Many of the guests couldn''t help but talk about Ivy while watching her make a fool out of herself.


    "Oh my God! I can''t believe what I''m seeing. Ivy had been lying to us all along. She used her legs to gain sympathy!"


    "Wow! ver thought she was that type of woman. So she lied to make Ryan marry her? What a shame!"


    "What do you expect? If she could giarise Miss L''s work, lying about her legs is nothing. I''m not surprised." Meanwhile, Ivy suddenly realised what she was doing and stilled, her heart sinking to the pits of her stomach.


    She nced at Ryan and suddenly


    elmet


    fell to the ground before saying, "R-Ryan, don''t know what happened just now... it must have been my reflexes since I''m so scared of snakes. How could you


    get me a snake when you know I''m scared of snakes?"


    Ryan couldn''t help but be impressed with Ivy''s acting. ''So, this was how I was fooled too.''


    He picked up the yellow-coloured python and approached Ivy before putting it on herp again.


    Ivy stood up again, shouting, "AH! Get it off! Please!"


    Ryanughed and said, "You don''t need to continue faking your disability... the whole world already knows you can walk now."


    He approached her and held the snake in his hands before saying, "Now... are you going to keep denying it or do you want my little friend here to give you a hug?"


    Ivy trembled and stepped back. "Stay away! Don''t bring that filthy thing near me!"


    She looked around and saw the judgemental looks in everyone''s eyes. The clicking of the cameras felt like odd sounds that one could only hear when watching a horror movie.


    It was all over! Everyone now knew that she had lied... She was doomed!


    A lightbulb suddenly went off in Ivy''s head. She nced at Ryan and used, "You set me up!"


    Ryan let out a low, calmugh. He replied, "No... you set yourself up. I''m not the one who''s been lying andmitting crimes for so many years... it was all you."


    Ivy shook her head before she screamed, "No! I didn''t do anything wrong! Lora stole you from me... is it wrong to fight for what is mine?"


    "Yours?" Ryan scoffed. "Don''t be delusional, Ivy. I only belong to Lora... my one and only wife."


    Ryan''s words hit Ivy like a punch to the gut.


    Lora. Oh, how she hated that name! It was like a curse that kept haunting her dreams every night. What was so special about Lora anyway? Why couldn''t Ryan forget her even after her death?


    §ï§Ý§Ñ


    Ivy suddenlyughed before saying, "Your wife, huh? It doesn''t matter if you expose me now... you won''t end up with Lora either... She''s dead and gone! Hahaha! I still won!"


    "Who said I''m dead?"

 Chapter 80~ Teasing

    Ivy froze when she heard that voice. A chill ran down her spine and her heart jumped to her throat.


    She nced at the crowd, wondering if she was hearing voices.


    Did Lorae back to haunt her as a ghost?


    Soon, a woman emerged from the crowd. She looked hot, wearing a red sequin off-the-shoulder gown with a highslit.


    The woman was the epitome of beauty. She turned heads wherever she passed... She looked so graceful and elegant and her presencemanded the hall''s attention.


    Everyone watched as she gracefully made her way up the stage and Ryan was quick to approach her. He smiled before holding her hand and bringing it to his lips, cing a soft kiss on her fair hand. "You''re just on time for the show," Ryan remarked, a smirk ying on his lips.


    The woman smiled and replied, "I couldn''t miss it for anything in the world."


    At the same time, Ivy''s jaw had dropped to the floor. She nced at the woman with wide eyes, unable to believe what she was seeing.


    "N-No... it... it can''t be! You''re dead! I made sure of it!" Ivy yelled, grabbing her head in denial. This bitch had died... she had seen the warehouse go up in mes herself!


    "Lora Davis, how are you still alive?" Ivy questioned, ring at Lora.


    Lora turned to look at Ivy, a smirk ying on her lips. She replied, "Surprised? Did you think you had won because you trapped me in a warehouse and set the ce on fire to kill me?"T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Gasps echoed around the hall. Ivy tried to kill Lora?


    Everyone was shocked that Ivy was that type of person. She always seemed like a kind person.


    Ivy clenched her hands into fists and red at Lora with unmasked hatred. She spat, "I hate you so much, Larisa, Lora or whatever you call yourself! Ryan was only supposed to love me... but you came in and stole him from me. You married him and that''s the crime youmitted... the only way you could pay for your crimes was to die! Why couldn''t you stay dead? I killed you twice and you''re still alive!"


    Another round of gasps echoed through the hall as the audience put two and two together. So, Lora Davis was Ryan''s ex-wife, Larisa? No wonder Ryan seemed to be interested in her the moment she returned to the country... they had history together.


    What was even more shocking was that Ivy had tried to kill Lora twice. She was a cold-blooded murderer!


    Lora scoffed. She looked at Ivy and questioned, "Ivy, do you even love Ryan? I doubt you do... you''re just selfish. You didn''t love him and that''s why you left the city... did youe back because things didn''t work out for you?"


    Anger shed through Ivy''s eyes. Lora had hit the nail on the head. Many years ago, Ivy wanted to advance in her career, so she wanted to go abroad. At that time, she was still dating Ryan. However, it wasn''t known whether Ryan would inherit thepany, or his father would take over as CEO and Ivy wasn''t patient enough to see what would happen.


    An opportunity presented itself and Ivy went abroad with the guise of treating her legs. However, she got stuck with her design career and decided to return and get Ryan back after she heard that he had taken over as CEO and thepany was thriving.


    It was toote though since Ryan was already married to Larisa. This was why Ivy did everything she could to get rid of Larisa...


    Ivy red at Lora and yelled, "Shut up! Who are you to judge me? I left but so what? I still came back to im what was mine. You stole him from me... you''re a homewrecker!"


    Lora rolled her eyes. She remarked, "The homewrecker is the one who came between a married couple. ver did anything to you and I was willing to leave Ryan to let you two be together, did you have to kill me?"


    Ivyughed like a maniac. She replied, "Yes! I had to kill you to erase you from Ryan''s life forever! Only then could he fully be mine."


    "You''re sick," Lora remarked, shaking her head. "I feel sorry for you."


    Ryan stepped in. He nced at Lora and said, "Hey, don''t waste your time with the likes of her. No matter what you say, she won''t understand. She''s too far gone."


    Lora nodded, sighing. She replied, "You''re right... let''s get this over and done with."


    Looking at Ivy, she stated, "Ivy, this is the ce where you will meet your downfall. We have evidence of all your crimes and thew will make sure you''re dealt with."


    At that moment, the doors swung


    open and a team of police officers


    entered the hall. Panic crept into when she saw them moving towards her... she looked around desperately, trying to find a way to escape.


    "No... I can''t go to jail..." She said in a trembling voice.


    Ivy red at Lora and lunged at her, screaming, "You bitch! I''ll kill you- Ah!"


    Before she could reach Lora, Ryan kicked her down and hissed, "Stay the fuck away from her!"


    Ivy''s eyes widened. She looked pitiful as she looked at Ryan before saying, "Ryan, how could you do this to me? After everything I''ve done for you... you owe me your life-"


    "No bitch... he doesn''t owe you anything. Now go rot in hell!" Lora spat, her eyes turning cold. She had gotten tired of Ivy''s annoying attitude.


    Ryan nced at Lora and his heart soared high. ''Is she protecting me?'' He mused, a smirk ying on his lips.


    The police officers got up the stage and restrained Ivy who couldn''t stop screaming, "This isn''t over! Lora, I won''t stop until you''re really dead!"


    Her words faded as the officers pulled her away from the hall as everyone watched. Ivy Williams'' mask was finally off... her lies and maniption were now in the open. After Ivy was no longer in sight, Lora took in a deep breath. She turned to Ryan, meeting his warm gaze.


    Finally, it was over... Ivy was out of their lives forever.


    Ryan approached Lora, his eyes softening as he looked into her eyes. He said, "I want to meet our children." Lora smiled and they maintained eye contact for a while... feeling the weight lift off their shoulders.


    "That was satisfying to watch!" Adan''s voice broke the spell between Lora and Ryan.


    Ryan tore his eyes away from Lora and nced at his friend before replying, "Ivy finally got what she deserved." Lora nodded and looked at Ryan, saying, "It''s time for you to return to the hospital."


    Ryan sighed, shoving his hands into his pockets and replied, "You go home, Lora only let you stay with. me in the hospital because I didn''t want Ivy to find out about you. Now that she''s gone and I know you''re


    safe, you can freely go home."


    don''t need to take care


    Lora frowned. She said, "I took care of you because I wanted to-"


    you


    "SShh, I know," Ryan replied. He smiled and said, "Now go home and rest because starting tomorrow, I''m going to be chasing after you."


    Lora blushed profusely and Ryan smirked; he had forgotten how¨¥ easily Lora got shy. It seemed she hadn''t changed that much and that was a good thing... he was going to enjoy teasing her.


    An hourter, Ryan received a call from the police.


    "Mr Kingsley, I''m sorry to deliver this news but Miss Williams has escaped."

 Chapter 81~ Our home

    When Ivy was being taken to the police station, her blood was boiling with anger.


    ''How dare they do this to me?'' She mused in her mind.


    Tonight was supposed to be special... everything got ruined because of Lora. That woman is like a pest who just couldn''t stay dead!


    How lucky was that bitch that every time she tried to kill her, she always survived?


    Ivy clenched her hands into fists, ring at the cuffs on her wrists. ''I can''t go to jail. Not when Lora is still alive. I won''t allow her to be happy with Ryan.''


    A thought suddenly urred to her and she looked at the two officers in front of the car before saying, "Officer, I would like to use the restroom."


    The officer turned to nce at Ivy through the bars. He scoffed and said, "You hold it in."


    Ivy frowned, biting her lip. She had to make them stop for her n to work.


    "Please... I''m so pressed. I took some alcohol. I might end up peeing in your car," Ivy remarked, using her most mastered pitiful voice. "Besides, just because you arrested me doesn''t mean I''m not human. I have rights too... I need to pee." The police officers nced at each other before sighing. They stopped at a nearby filling station and parked the car. One of them said, "I''ll escort you. Be quick."


    Ivy smiled and nodded, "Thank you. You''re so kind."


    She went to the restroom and the police officer stood outside to wait for her. While in the restroom, Ivy quickly entered the cubicle and climbed on top of the toilet before reaching for the small window.


    Ivy was slim in nature so it was easy for her to pass through the window. The moment she was out, she ran for her life and asked someone for a phone.


    "Daddy, you need toe and pick me up. Now! I''ll send you the address," She said on the phone and continued to run a few minutester until she found a ce to hide.


    It didn''t take long for David, Ivy''s father, to arrive at Ivy''s location. When she got into the car, he asked worriedly, "What happened? Did you escape from the police?"


    "You didn''t do anything to help me when the policemen were taking me away. eded to save myself somehow. You need to help me escape.... If I''m arrested, you would go down too. You know what you did in the past..." Ivy said. David gritted his teeth. He replied, "I already talked to our familywyer. We would have bailed you out soon. But now that you''ve escaped, I''m afraid bail won''t be possible if they catch you."


    "You need to help me, Daddy. Please... don''t let them take me away," Ivy pleaded, giving her father doe eyes.


    David sighed and replied, "Of course... I''ll help you escape. I won''t let them take you."


    At the same time, the police officers had called for backup when they realised that Ivy had escaped.


    The chief inspector was pissed as he barked out orders, "How can you be so careless? Look for her everywhere! Make sure you find her!"


    However, they looked for Ivy for close to an hour but they couldn''t find her anywhere. The chief inspector had no choice but to call Ryan to give him the news.


    "What? Officer, are you kidding me? How did she escape?" Ryan growled on the phone.


    "I think she may have had some help," the chief inspector replied.N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    On the other side of the phone, Ryan ran a hand through his hair. He nced at Lora who was seated next to him in the backseat of his car and worry flickered through his eyes. "That means Lora is in danger," Ryan remarked. "Search for Ivy at the Williams'' mansion. Perhaps she went there."


    When Ryan cut the call, his jaw tightened in anger.


    Ivy Williams! How long would she be a threat in their lives? Just when he thought they had gotten rid of her, she managed to escape from the hands of thew. "Ryan-"


    "You have to openly move with security from now on," Ryan stated. "Don''t drive by yourself... I''ll hire a driver for you-"


    "I already have a driver... I just like to drive myself."


    "You need a driver who''s a martial


    arts expert. That way, he can protect you in case your security team fail to do so. Ryan said, running a hand through his hair again. "FuckDI didn''t expect Ivy to escape!"


    Lora furrowed her eyebrows. Having Ivy on the loose was dangerous as no one would know what she would do.


    "I''ll be more careful... perhaps I should move to the mansion-"


    "Come home," Ryan said. He looked at Lora and remarked, "That wayd can protect you better. Bring the kids home... our mansion is just the way you left it... I''ve never tampered with our home."


    He was referring to the mansion they used to live in as husband and wife six years ago. Even though he had moved out and started living in a penthouse, he left the mansion untouched and would go there whenever he missed Larisa.


    Lora''s heart did a little flip. Ryan''s words were sweet but...


    "Ryan, I''ll stay with Mom and Dad at the Davis'' mansion," Lora replied, rejecting Ryan''s offer.


    Ryan gulped. The rejection hit him like a p to the face. However, he didn''t get angry... it would take some time for him to win back Lora''s love.


    He smiled and said, "Ok... as long as you''re safe there. I''ll send over a few bodyguards to protect you and our children. But I would have loved to protect you myself, twenty-four-seven." Loraughed. She arched an eyebrow and asked, "Really, Mr Kingsley? How can you protect anyone with those injuries? Focus on getting better before thinking of protecting others."


    "You''re not others... You''re the mother of my children, of course, I wouldy down my life for you," Ryan said, his eyes glinting with something that made Lora''s heart skip a beat. She frowned yfully before saying, "Ok... enough of that. I don''t want to hear you saying you would die for me... I don''t like it."


    "Would you cry for me?" Ryan suddenly asked, leaning over to look into Lora''s eyes.


    "Huh... what kind of question is that?" Lora remarked.


    "Just answer the question... would you be sad if I died?" Ryan asked again.


    "Well... yeah-"


    "If I was going to die tomorrow, would you give me a goodbye kiss?"


    "Ryan... you''re not going to die-"


    "Would you? If I asked..." Ryan''s voice was low and seductive and Lora could feel the heat of his breath fanning her skin. She gulped, her heart racing in her chest. "Maybe-"


    Ryan leaned in and pecked Lora''s lips, once and then twice. When he pulled back, he smirked when he saw her face flush a light pink.


    "You-"


    "Since I almost died, I was just collecting my kiss," Ryan said and sat back in his seat, a smile crossing his lips.

 Chapter 82~ Meeting Ella and Ethan

    "Are you sure about this, sweetheart?" Freya Davis asked Lora. "You don''t need to be forced to introduce the twins to him... the Davis family is very much capable of raising them and they''ve been doing fine without the help of the Kingsleys.'' Lora smiled, warmth spreading through her heart at her mother''s words. She nced at the twins who were waiting in the living room and sighed.


    "I know, Mom. But... Ryan is their father. I think it''s only right that they get to know who their father is," Lora replied. "Ryan also deserves to be part of their lives if he wants to."


    Since Ivy Williams was now a fugitive of thew, Lora and Ryan agreed that he would meet the children from the Davis mansion. Ryan had deployed a full security team to surround the Davis mansion. No one was allowed to go in and out without clearance. So, at the moment, it was the safest ce for Lora and the children to be.


    Freya frowned, knowing the courage it took for Lora to do this. However, she wasn''t for the idea. Ryan was a man who once caused Lora so much pain.


    If it were up to her, she would want Lora to stay as far away from him as possible to avoid reopening old wounds.


    Freya hesitated a bit before asking, "Do you n to get back together with him?"


    "No, Mom... I''ve already moved on with my life," Lora replied.


    Freya''s eyes lit up. She remarked, "Right? That''s great! Jason is a nice young man... bring him home for dinner one of these days."


    Even though Ryan was part of a powerful family, Freya didn''t want her daughter to be entangled with him again. After all, he never appreciated her when they were living together as husband and wife.


    She recalled how Lora fell into depression after they saved her from the warehouse. Ryan had deeply hurt her daughter and Freya didn''t want her to have anything to do with him. Freya was very protective of her daughter, this time around, no one would have the chance to hurt her again.


    Regardless, she didn''t want to get in the way of her daughter''s choice to let Ryan into his children''s lives.


    She sighed heavily and added, "I''ll try to be nice when Ryanes... however, I do not approve of your rtionship, in case you want to get back together."


    "Come on, Mom. Can we not talk about this? The twins seem excited to meet their father... let''s focus on that," Lora responded and Freya relented.


    "Fine... but I don''t think Ryan will be safe with your father here. I would keep an eye on him if I were you," Freya uttered and Lora giggled.


    "It would serve him right."


    Meanwhile, while seated in the living room, Ethan was cautioning his little sister.


    "E, I know you''re excited to meet Daddy, but meeting him doesn''t mean we''ve be aplete family. He has to make Mommy happy first," Ethan said, his voice serious and determined.


    E furrowed her eyebrows and asked. "But he''s our daddy, why won''t we be aplete family?"


    Ethan sighed, shaking his little head before replying, "Listen, Daddy was away from us for a long time. We can''t just let him think that we will ept him right away. He needs to beg Mommy for forgiveness and make her very happy. He also needs to show us that he cares and that he won''t go away again."


    E''s eyes rounded. She looked at her brother and asked, "So if he makes Mommy happy, will he stay with us forever?"


    Ethan stroked his chin, a thoughtful look on his face before he replied, "Yes... but only if he deserves it."


    "Yay! Daddy will stay with us forever!" E happily squeaked, bouncing lightly while seated on the couch.


    Lora walked into the living and saw E happily bouncing on the couch while looking at the doors. She smiled and asked, "Are you that excited to meet your father?" "Yes!" E eximed. "Is he going to stay with us from now on?"


    Lora''s smile froze. She didn''t know how to answer that question. However, the doorbell suddenly rang and she let out a sigh of relief. "That must be your daddy."


    "I''ll open it," Freya offered, worry creeping into her. She was still in doubt about this but she had to respect her daughter''s decision.


    When she opened the door, she found Ryan standing outside with gift bags in his hands.


    Ryan smiled, his heart beating like a drum. He was so nervous. However, he couldn''t wait to meet the twins.


    He lifted his hands and said, "Good afternoon, Mrs. Davis, I didn''t want toe empty-handed so I brought a few things. I hope you don''t mind."


    Although Freya didn''t like Ryan, she took the gifts and stepped away for him to enter. She remarked, "You''re wee."


    Ryan smiled and walked into the mansion. His heart skipped a beat when he saw the two children who were looking at him in the living room.


    At that moment, Ryan believed that


    it was possible to love someone you just met anconditionally. These two little kids were his and Lora''s... the cute little girl resembled her mother so much and the boy looked like him.


    What did he do to deserve such a huge blessing?


    His heart melted and he knew right there and then, these children were a part of him. He didn''t need to do a DNA test.


    Lora nced at Ryan and said, "Ryan, this is-"


    "E and Ethan," Ryan uttered, his voice hoarse as he fought back his tears. "Our children."


    Ryan approached the kids slowly, not wanting to scare them. He got down on his knees to be at eye level with them before saying, "Hi... it''s nice to finally meet you."


    His eyes watered with tears when he saw how the kids were looking at him as though he was a stranger. ''My kids don''t even know me...''


    Ryan''s heart clenched. This was all his fault... if only he could turn back time, he would do anything and everything in his power to make sure he was present in his children''s lives. Pushing those thoughts aside, he smiled and introduced himself, "My name is Ryan Kingsley and I''m your-"


    "Daddy!"


    Before Ryan could tell what was happening, E had thrown herself at him, wrapping her arms around his neck. "Daddy, I missed you so much."


    She looked back at her brother and added, "I''m sorry, Ethan. I couldn''t help it."N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    Ethan rolled his eyes. He knew that his sister would mess things up. Couldn''t she y hard to get for once?


    At the same time, Ryan''s heart leapt


    with joy when E hugged and called him Daddy. He got to his feet, carrying her. Looking at her, he eximed, "Yes, E. I''m your Daddy!"


    When he saw how Ethan just stood there with a pout on his lips, Ryan got closer and scooped the boy up in his arms before giving him a kiss on the forehead. He said, "I''m sorry it took me so long to find you guys... but promise, I''ll do my very best to always be there for you."

 Chapter 83~ A second chance

    Ryan couldn''t wait.


    As soon as he put on protective measures for Lora and the children, he was ready to go and meet the children for the first time.N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    A few days had passed after the fake ceremony. Right after Ivy was exposed, the news of her deception and escape went viral. Everyone was shocked to learn the truth about her. Ryan even put up a bounty on her head. He wanted Ivy to be captured as soon as possible for the safety of his loved ones. The Williams were also being watched in case they had hidden their daughter, however, despite searching their properties and going through the whole city, Ivy was still atrge. "Ryan, you can see them when youpletely heal. I can meet them on your behalf at the moment," Diane, Ryan''s sister, offered.


    Ryan had discharged himself from the hospital but his personal doctor visited every few hours to change his bandages and administer his medication. Diane had temporarily moved back to the Kingsley mansion to take care of her brother. "Never. Grandpa already stole the first meeting from me... I won''t let you meet them first before me as well," Ryan objected as he put on his jacket.


    He wasn''t going to let anyone else meet his children before he did.


    Charles couldn''t stop bragging about how he was the first to meet the twins when he went to look for Lora at the Davis & Co. Jewelrypany. Ryan was jealous of his grandfather. The children were his but yet, they didn''t want to meet him. Diane rolled her eyes and pouted. She replied, "Fine... but I''m meeting them soon after you do. I can''t wait to see my nephew and niece!"


    Ryan smiled at the thought of his children. It still felt surreal... who knew the news of Larisa being alive came with more blessings than he could ever imagine? Twins! Two children!


    Ryan knew he didn''t deserve this happiness but... no one could imagine the happiness he felt when he found out he had children.


    When he thought Larisa was dead, he didn''t have a reason to live. He just took each day as it came... not caring about tomorrow. Now that he knew she was alive and he was responsible for two adorable children, he would make sure he stayed alive- for them.


    It didn''t take long for Ryan to arrive at the Davis mansion.


    As he waited for their doors to open, his heart couldn''t stop beating rapidly.


    He still couldn''t believe it. Him? A father?


    It was a miracle... perhaps this was God''s way of telling him it was possible to have a second chance and he would use it to rectify his past mistakes. Finally, the doors to the mansion opened and when Ryanid his eyes on the twins, his breath caught in his throat.


    They were the most beautiful creatures he had ever seen and they were his.


    Ryan couldn''t contain his excitement.


    That was why, despite his wounds not being fully healed, he didn''t hesitate to scoop them both in his arms, his heart feeling warm and full. "I''m your father... I''ll never leave you alone again," Ryan proimed, giving kisses to both E and Ethan.


    E grinned from ear to ear as she asked, "So, you''re going to live with us forever, Daddy?"


    Ryan nced at his daughter who had her mother''s face. A doting smile crossed his lips as he answered, "I''ll always stay with you, I promise." He looked at Ethan who he held with his other arm and remarked, "Ethan. I''m sorry for not being around... Daddy will make up for it."


    Ethan pouted but he couldn''t help but lean into Ryan. Deep down, he mused, ''So this is what Daddy''s hug feels like. It''s warm andfortable.'' On the side, Lora and Freya watched this scene. They shared a look before smiling.


    ''Perhaps this wasn''t a bad idea... as long as he will shower the kids with love,'' Freya thought in her mind, d to see her grandchildren so happy. However, she could only approve of Ryan taking up his role as a father. He didn''t have to be with Lora and cause her pain again. To Freya, not everyone deserved a second chance.


    At the same time, Lora''s heart was filled with conflicting emotions. She was moved by the love and care


    Ryan showed the twins. The wamet


    Ryan looked at the children with much love... it warmed her heart.


    SO


    Seeing how happy the kids were, she knew she had made the right choice to allow Ryan into their lives. They deserved to have a father as long as he didn''t run away from his


    responsibilities.


    "Daddy, Ethan said you have to make Mommy happy for us to be aplete family. Have you made her happy?" Lora was brought back to the present when she heard E''s voice.


    Her face flushed a light pink and her eyes widened at her daughter''s words as she scolded, "E!"


    Ryan let out a low chuckle. He ced the twins down before looking at Lora and replied, "She''s right... I need to make you happy."


    He got closer to Lora and got down on his knees, making her eyes widen in shock.


    "W-What are you doing?" She questioned.


    Ryan looked up at Lora, maintaining eye contact with her before saying, "I''m so sorry, Lora. I''m sorry for hurting you in the past and for


    §ç§à§Û


    unknowingly hurting you when returned... please give me a second chance. And I''ll prove to you that I can give you the life you deserve. I''ll love you, pamper you and worship


    you like a goddess."


    Lora''s breath hitched, her heart pounding erratically in her chest. She couldn''t tear her eyes away from Ryan''s gaze, her stomach fluttering with butterflies.


    Ryan smiled and repeated, "Please give me a second chance, Lora. I''ll treat you well this time around."


    Lora gulped, her heart beating loudly like a drum. She opened her mouth to respond when a deep, angry voice echoed in the room.


    "Over my dead body."

 Chapter 84~ The test

    Jack Davis had walked into the mansion just in time to witness Ryan''s heartfelt apology and request. However, the man clenched his hands into fists and his jaw tightened. Lora was his one and only daughter.


    When Ryan had a chance to be with her, he didn''t cherish her. How dare he waltz into his house to apologise and ask for another chance like his past mistakes could easily be forgotten?


    Jack''s biggest regret was losing his daughter when she was kidnapped by traffickers at a very young age.


    He never got to see her go into first grade, or buy her gifts when she turned into a teenager. He never got to take her to the high school dance or even attend her graduation... after missing so much time with his daughter and regretting not being there to protect her or make her happy, he didn''t want her to face any more hardships.


    Seeing the man who took his daughter''s love for granted beg for a chance, anger red through Jack. He stepped forward and dered, "Over my dead body."


    The room fell silent as everyone turned to look at the imposing figure in the archway leading to the living room.


    Jack red at Ryan coldly and said through gritted teeth, "What makes you think you can juste back into my daughter''s life as if nothing ever happened? Do you know how I found her six years ago? How she became afterwards when she thought her whole world was gone?"Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    "Dad...." Lora remarked, signalling to her father with her eyes for him to watch what he said in front of the kids.


    Ryan''s heart clenched with guilt. He knew it wouldn''t be easy to earn everyone''s trust. However, he was determined to go through anything as long as he would end up winning Lora''s love back.


    He didn''t move from his kneeling position. Looking at Jack, he uttered, "I understand how you feel, Mr Davis. Now that I have my own children, I wouldn''t want them to be hurt in any way by anyone."


    His voice was calm as he continued, "I made a lot of mistakes in the past... one of them was not cherishing Lora the way she deserved. I was blind to the fact that I loved her so much... I didn''t know this until I lost her and I''ve spent thest six years regretting it. But I''m here to not only ask Lora for her forgiveness but yours as well. I want to be a father my children would be proud of... I also want to be a man deserving of your daughter''s love."


    Lora''s heart fluttered when she heard Ryan say this. However, her phone suddenly rang and when she saw who was calling, she felt like cold water had been sshed over her head.


    What was she thinking about when she was dating someone else?


    Guilt crept into her as she turned her phone on silent... she couldn''t pick it up with the current tension in the living room.


    E suddenly approached her grandfather and grabbed his pants before saying, "Grandpa, Daddy said he''s sorry. He said he won''t leave us again. Can you forgive him?"


    Ryan''s heart was filled with warmth at that. Indeed, fathers should have daughters.


    At the same time, Jack furrowed his eyebrows. When he looked at his grandaughter''s watery eyes, his heart softened.


    He smiled at E and replied, "Don''t worry, I just want to teach him a lesson."


    Looking at Ryan, he ordered, "You, follow me!"


    Ryan got to his feet and followed Jack outside to the backyard.


    They walked for a while until they entered a huge garden.


    Jack looked at Ryan and scoffed before saying, "Just because your daughter spoke for you, it doesn''t mean that I''ve forgiven you. I still need to teach you a lesson!"


    Ryan nodded, humbling himself


    before the man. He proimed, "I''ll ept whatever punishment you give me. All I ask is that you give me a chance to prove myself. I''ll never hurt your daughter again. I promise."


    Jack smirked. He cleared his throat and looked at his field before saying, "This is my small garden where I grow my chilli. I love spicy food and love to experiment with different chilli peppers. In this garden, you will find the world''s hottest chilli Eating the whole chilli raw can feel like your tongue is not your own...you will feel like someone had cedva into your mouth... it will burn like hell."


    "Oookay," Ryan remarked, not sure where Jack was going with this.


    "I want you to eat one whole chilli. If you manage to stay calm without asking for water for twenty minutes, I''ll let you be and let Lora make her own decision. I''m not saying I''ll forgive you easily, but I''ll back off and just watch from the side," Jack


    remarked.


    He looked at Ryan and asked, "So, what do you say? Do you think my daughter is worth burning your tongue for? Mind you... this is the world''s hottest chilli... eating the whole thing is not child''s y."


    Ryan gulped, looking at the field of chilli peppers. He wasn''t one to eat spicy food... spicy food always made him instantly sick.


    However, since eating the chilli would mean he would be one step closer to Lora, Ryan didn''t hesitate to agree. He nced at Jack, a determined look on his face as he answered, "I''ll do it."


    "Are you sure?" Jack arched an eyebrow. "Just so you know... my daughter might not ept you back even if you eat the chilli. Are you still willing to go through with it?"


    Ryan nodded and replied, "I''m willing to do anything that could give me even the slightest chance."


    Jack smirked. He pointed at the field and said, "Pick one and eat it... if you pass this test, I''ll think about forgiving you."


    Ryan''s eyes lit up. He dered, "I''m going to pass this test with flying colours."


    Without hesitating, he picked one of the chilli peppers and ced the whole thing into his mouth.


    Soon, beads of sweat coated Ryan''s forehead and green veins looked like they were about to pop out of his skin.


    Jackughed and asked, "So, Ryan, how is it? Do you still want a second chance with my daughter? If you give up now, I''ll give you some milk to ease the heat."

 Chapter 85~ Stay with me

    When Ryan popped the chilli pepper into his mouth and quickly chewed it, he didn''t feel anything at first but a faint tingle.


    However, a sudden explosion of heat tore through his senses, making him feel like he had dipped his face into a pot of boiling water.


    His eyes grew wider, turning red in an instant as they reacted to the heat and he struggled to keep his expression calm.


    He continued to chew the chilli, his mouth feeling like someone had lit a match and set his taste buds on fire.


    Jack Davis nced at Ryan and asked, "Is it hot? Spit it out now... I know you can''t take it."


    Ryan shook his head, determination etched on his face. He said through gritted teeth, "It''s not so bad. I can handle it... this is nothingpared to what Lora went through."


    Jack arched an eyebrow but he kept quiet and let Ryan continue. He was waiting for the moment the young man would give up.


    However, Ryan continued to chew the chilli until it was done and down his throat, even as the heat in his mouth intensified, burning his tongue and making his throat feel like it was dipped into an active volcano, he was determined to pass the test. Beads of sweat coated his forehead and his face turned as red as a tomato. His eyes fluttered shut, blinking furiously as his vision turned ssy with tears.


    ''Fuck!'' Ryan cussed internally, not wanting to make a sound.


    He resisted the urge to fan his mouth with his hand or look around for something that could cool the inferno in his mouth. His mind screamed desperately for water but he clenched his hands into fists, holding himself back as much as possible. However, the heat only seemed to linger in his mouth and throat, spreading rapidly like a wildfire.


    Jackughed when he saw Ryan''s expression and asked, "So, Ryan, how is it? Do you still want a second chance with my daughter? If you give up now, I''ll give you some milk to ease the heat."


    Ryan coughed violently, sticking his tongue out as though the air would cool off the burning sensation. He shook his head and replied in a strained voice, "No... never."


    Jack furrowed his eyebrows. He didn''t expect Ryan to be so resilient. As a chilli lover himself, not even he could eat the whole raw chilli and endure twenty minutes without drinking any water to wash it down.


    "Ryan, you don''t need to force yourself... just give up and I''ll help you feel better," Jack remarked, narrowing his eyes at Ryan.


    However, Ryan shook his head. By now, his eyes were bloodshot and his lips were red and swollen. He stared at Jack and stated, "I agreed to take this test... and I''ll pass by all means if it means you would forgive me."


    Jack sighed heavily. He could see that Ryan was really determined to make amends. However, could he really entrust him with his daughter?


    He nced towards the mansion and gestured with his hand. Soon, someone came with a tray and a ss of milk.


    "That''s enough," Jack said, getting the ss of milk and passing it to Ryan. "You''ve already passed the test."


    Ryan''s heart leaped with joy. He quickly took the ss and gulped the milk down, however, he could still feel the effects of the chilli and his insides were burning up.


    "What is it?" Jack asked when he saw Ryan''s expression. "Do you have aint to make?"


    "No, I don''t..." Ryan said, forcing a smile. He knew he was about to get sick but it was worth it.


    Jack nodded and replied, "I won''t interfere but if I feel like you''re not good enough for my daughter, I won''t allow you near her again."


    Meanwhile, inside the mansion, Lora nced at her mother and asked worriedly, "What do you think they are talking about?"


    Freya chuckled and replied, "Knowing your father, he''s probably up to no good."


    "Mommy, is Grandpa going to scold Daddy?" E asked Lora.


    Lora looked at her daughter and sighed when she saw how worried the little one was. She wondered how she could already be so attached to Ryan when theyjust met.


    "No, baby. Grandpa and Daddy are just having a little chat," Lora responded warmly.


    E frowned and asked, "But why are they taking so long? I want to y with Daddy."


    Lora chuckled and said, "They will be back very soon. You can y with your father but he will have to go back home soon."


    "Isn''t he going to live with us?" E asked and Lora''s breath caught in her throat.


    Freya chipped in to save Lora from replying. She said, "E, I have made your favorite dessert. Do you want me to give you some?" E''s eyes lit up. She eximed, "Yes, Yes! I want some!"


    "Come with me... you too, Ethan," Freya remarked and led her grandchildren to the dining area.


    Lora let out a sigh of relief. She


    nced at her phone and saw


    twenty missed calls from Jason. Guilt crept into her... Jason had been calling but she didn''t answer


    because she didn''t know what to sayCopyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    to him.


    She was about to call him back when she heard the doors open. Soon, Jack walked into the living room, followed by a very pale Ryan.


    Lora furrowed her eyebrows. Ryan looked like he was about to pass out at any moment.


    She approached Ryan and asked, "Ryan, are you ok?"


    Ryan forced a smile, trying to hide the pain he was feeling. He remarked, his voice hoarse. "I''m good."


    "You don''t look fine to me-"


    Ryan suddenly leaned forward and ced his head on Lora''s shoulder, breathing heavily.


    Lora gasped when she felt how hot his body was. She nced at her father and asked, "What happened out there?"


    Jack averted his daughter''s gaze before saying, "I might have forced him to eat the world''s hottest chilli."


    Lora''s stomach sank and her eyes grew wide. She yelled, "Dad, Ryan can''t eat anything spicy! Call the doctor, now!" "No..." Ryan suddenly mumbled. "I just need to sleep. I''ll be fine."


    Lora frowned but she still helped


    him upstairs before taking him to the guest room. She found something to give him for his stomach and watched over him.....


    her stomach knotting with worry.


    When night fell, she was about to leave the guest room when Ryan grabbed her hand and whispered, "Stay with me."

 Chapter 86~ Family date

    Lora''s stomach churned with worry as she took care of Ryan. He had gotten worse when she took him to the guest room... his skin turned pale, beads of sweat coated his forehead and he developed a fever. During that time, Lora ced a cool, damp washcloth on Ryan''s forehead and neck to help reduce his fever.


    For hours, he wasn''t responsive and worry crept into Lora. Why was Ryan looking so weak? His injuries were healing and the chilli shouldn''t have made him so sick.


    She furrowed her eyebrows, wondering if there was something wrong with him. Brushing her thoughts aside, Lora stayed by Ryan''s side untilter in the evening when colour returned to his face and he finally opened his eyes. "Are you ok?" Lora asked, her voiceced with concern.


    Ryan nced at Lora and nodded, his voice hoarse, "I''m ok."


    The chilli effect had gone and the medicine that Lora had given him had stopped the stomach cramps.


    "Why did you eat chilli when you know you can''t eat anything spicy? Do you have a death wish?" Lora questioned, a frown etched on her face.


    "I wanted your father to forgive me," Ryan replied. "eded his approval to be with you again."


    Lora sighed, her heart racing. She looked into Ryan''s eyes and aplicated feeling crept into her before she said, "Don''t waste your time, Ryan. At most, we can only be friends."


    "Friends?" Ryan arched an eyebrow as a lump formed in his throat. Was there really no chance for them to be together again?


    He wanted to bring Lora home and live with her as husband and wife with their kids. He wanted to give his children aplete family... what better way than to do it with the woman he loved? However, Ryan knew Lora wasn''t ready to give him her heart yet. Looking at her, he grinned and remarked, "Ok... friends it is... but can I be your bestie? Just being friends sounds too distant."


    Lora rolled her eyes and replied, "Stop ying around, Mr Kingsley. It''ste but you still look weak... you can sleep in here and leave in the morning."


    She got to her feet and turned around to leave when Ryan grabbed her hand and whispered,


    "Stay with me."


    Lora froze in her stance, her heart pounding erratically in her chest. How could she stay in the same room with Ryan?


    She nced at him and refused outright, "No, that''s not appropriate."


    Ryan arched an eyebrow before he asked, "You used to stay with me in the hospital."


    "That''s different!" Lora protested.


    "How different? I''m still injured, it''s not like I can do anything to you..." Ryan trailed and smirked. "Unless you want me to do something to you."


    Lora blushed and tugged at her hand roughly, "Let go-"


    "Argh!" Ryan groaned and Lora stilled, looking him over worriedly.


    "What is it?" She asked anxiously.


    Pain contorted Ryan''s face as he said with difficulty, "I think I pushed myself too hard... my injuries hurt so much."


    Lora''s heart sank, worry creeping into her. She sat on the edge of the bed and said, "You try to sleep... I''ll stay with you until you fall asleep. In case you need anything."


    At the same time, E tried to knock on the guest room door when Ethan stopped her. He uttered, "Mommy will send Daddy away if we disturb them."


    "Oh... then I''ll just see Daddy tomorrow," E whispered back. "Since Mommy is sleeping with Daddy, does it mean she forgave Daddy?"


    Ethan sighed, saying, "I don''t know... let''s wait and see."


    The two kids went to ask their grandparents to tuck them in. Even though they didn''t spend much time with Ryan, they were excited to have both their parents around that night.


    ...


    The next morning, Lora found herself in bed. Her heart skipped a beat when she realised she was still in the guest room.


    ''Did I sleep in the same bed as Ryan?'' Lora asked herself, her heart fluttering like a hummingbird''s wings.


    ''Oh no! How could I let that happen?'' She mused.


    She closed one eye and turned to look at her right side with the other. However, the other side of the bed was empty. Had Ryan left already?


    Whatever the case, she was saved from the embarrassment of waking up with Ryan in the same bed. Lora didn''t even know how she slept or how she found herself on the bed.


    A short whileter, Lora took a


    shower. Since her parents were around, she didn''t really need to work so hard with the kids. Her parents did everything... it was like they were new parents again excited to take care of the twins.


    When Lora was done, she went downstairs. However, as she approached the kitchen area, she heard some voices.


    "... are you going to make breakfast for us, Daddy? Can you cook?" It was E''s voice that resonated in the area.


    "Of course, your father is a man of many talents," Ryan''s voice came.


    "Are you sure?" Ethan''s voice was filled with doubt. "Those eggs look burnt to me."


    "Ah... I''ll do them again," Ryan''s voice reached Lora''s ears.


    She quietly stood in the doorway, watching Ryan and the children''s interaction. Ryan had wrapped a white apron around his waist and he was busy flipping something ck on the pan. Lora arched an eyebrow at that. Couldn''t he see that the egg was now as ck as charcoal?


    The kitchen was a total mess with so many dishes in the sink and so many eggshells on the counter. It seemed Ryan had been at it for a while now seeing how he already emptied one tray of eggs.


    Although the ce was a mess, Lora couldn''t help the warmth that spread through her at the heartfelt scene before her.


    The twins looked genuinely happy to see Ryan in the kitchen despite the smoke that had clouded the ce.


    "Are you nning to finish our eggs?" Lora asked, making her presence known.


    Ryan nced at Lora and the tips of his ears turned red. He sighed and said, "Your parents allowed me to use their kitchen so I could surprise you with breakfast... I''m sorry I made a mess instead."


    "It''s the thought that counts," Lora remarked and offered. "Let me take over."


    "No," Ryan refused and said, "Let me take you and the children out for breakfast."


    Lora furrowed her eyebrows. She was about to decline when E beat her to it, "Yay! I want to go and eat out with Daddy and Mommy!"


    "Me too," Ethan remarked. "We''ve never had a meal with Daddy."


    Lora sighed and reluctantly replied, "Fine... but only this once."Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    Ryan''s eyes lit up. He raised his hand to give the twins a high five before eximing, "Yes! Our very first family date!"

 Chapter 87~ Already lost her

    "Ryan Kingsley''s car entered the Davis mansion but it never came out until now," Jason''s man reported on the phone.


    Jason clenched his hand around the phone, his eyes shing with anger. He had been trying to call Lora since the previous day, however, his calls went unanswered. It was like she was trying to avoid him. Luckily he had ced someone to watch over her, otherwise, he wouldn''t have known she wasn''t picking up her calls because she was with Ryan Kingsley.


    "Keep me updated," Jason replied through gritted teeth before cutting the call and throwing his phone on the couch.


    He hadn''t had time to spend with Lora since the kidnapping incident since she was always with Ryan, taking care of him.


    It was like he had already lost her to Ryan after he risked his life to save her...


    "No, I''m not going to lose you to Ryan, Lora. I can lose everything but not you," Jason muttered to himself, a look of determination on his face.


    ...


    Meanwhile, Ryan had booked the whole restaurant at the most prestigious hotel for privacy and security.


    Lora looked around, frowning. She said, "You didn''t have to book the whole thing."


    "I didn''t do it to show off... with Ivy out there, who knows what she might do? She can easily disguise herself as a guest and try to harm you guys. I promised not to let anyone harm you and I meant it," Ryan replied. Warmth spread through Lora''s heart. She nodded and said, "You''re right. We have to be extra careful."


    They all sat infortable silence as the kids went through the menu.


    E nced at Ryan and demanded, "Daddy, I want ice cream."


    "Anything you want-"


    "No... it''s too early for ice cream and it''s very cold. Let her have a normal breakfast," Lora interrupted.


    Ryan''s stomach sank. It seemed he had a long way to learn how to take care of the kids. He thought it was ok to give E ice cream as long as she asked for it.


    He smiled at E and remarked, "Mommy said no... choose something else instead. How about some eggs?"


    E pouted but she nodded anyway. She replied, "I''ll have some eggs, bacon and some beans."


    Ryan nodded. He nced at Ethan and asked, "And you Ethan? What would you like to have?"


    "I''ll just have pancakes," Ethan replied calmly.


    Ryan called for the waiter and ordered the food for the children. He also ordered Lora''s favourite food.


    Lora frowned and said, "I thought I told you my taste has changed?"


    "It only changed because you hated me... I know you still love this type of food," Ryan replied, smiling.


    Since he had a stomach ache the previous day, he just ordered a bowl of soup.


    When E saw how little Ryan was eating, she looked at him and frowned, "Daddy, why are you having only soup? Can you not afford more food? We can share mine."


    Ryanughed -but warmth spread


    through him at his daughter''s


    concern. He reached over and stroked, E''s hair before saying, "This is all that I can take right now. I''ll eat moreter... Don''t worry, Daddy can afford plenty of food."


    "Ok... you can eat lunch with us at home. Grandma is a great cook," E offered. "Her food is better than any restaurant."


    Ryan''s eyes lit up. He nodded quickly and responded, "I would love to-"


    "Your father will be going back home, E. He can''t have lunch with us at home," Lora interrupted, causing a lump to form in Ryan''s throat.


    "Why not?" E asked, looking at her mother. "Didn''t Dade to live with us? You even slept togetherst night."


    Lora almost choked on her juice. Her face blushed and she briefly met Ryan''s amused eyes before replying, "He only stayed because he wasn''t feeling well. But now that he''s alright, he has to go back to his house." E nced at Ryan and asked, "Are you feeling much better Daddy?"


    Ryan ced the side of his fist to his mouth and coughed before saying, "I''m..." Cough. "Getting..." Cough. "There." Cough, cough. "But Daddy''s stomach still aches."


    E looked at her mother and pleaded, "But Daddy is not better, Mommy. Can''t he stay with us another night?" E pleaded.


    "But why do we have different houses?" Ethan asked, his eyebrows furrowed.


    "Um..." Lora didn''t know how to answer that question.


    Seeing that, Ryan interrupted. He looked at the kids and said, "Ethan, E, in the past, I wronged your mother. Right now, I''m paying for t since you''re all not by my side. But I promise to make it up to you and


    ?ͬ


    bring all of you home soon.


    E was about to reply when Ethan beat her to it. He looked at Ryan seriously and remarked, "Mommy will forgive you if she''s happy. I don''t think you''re doing your best, Daddy." "Ethan!" Lora scolded but Ryan let out a lowugh.


    He nodded and replied, "You''re right, son. I haven''t done my best yet... but I''ll keep trying until your mother forgives me."


    Lora sighed but she didn''t reply. Ryan was determined to win her over, so no matter what she said, he wouldn''t stop until she agreed to return to him.


    They continued to have their breakfast, chatting here and there. E especially kept talking about what she wanted to do with both her parents that day since it was during the weekend. When they were almost done with their meal, a tall man with sandy brown hair suddenly walked into the restaurant.


    "Lora?"N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    Lora''s heart jumped to her throat when she heard the familiar voice. She was about to turn around when E eximed, "Uncle Jason? Are you here for breakfast too?" Ryan frowned and narrowed his eyes at the man who had disturbed their family time. What was he ying at to show up there?


    At the same time, Lora looked at Jason and uttered, "Jason... hi. I didn''t expect to see you here."


    Jason smiled and said, "It''s a


    surprise for me too... I came here for


    breakfast but I was told the whole restaurant was booked by a big shot. wanted to see who it was so I came to check... I didn''t expect it to be you guys."


    "Uncle Jason,e and meet my Daddy. This is my Daddy," E excitedly remarked.


    Jason got closer and nced at Ryan whose face had darkened with irritation. He smiled and said, "Ryan Kingsley, I didn''t expect you to be the twins'' father."


    "I didn''t expect to see you here either... you''re disrupting our family time," Ryan hissed, anger ring through him.


    "Well, since I''ll be family soon too, it''s only right that I join you for breakfast," Jason remarked, getting a chair and sitting next to Lora. "After all, I''ll be the kids'' stepfather soon."

 Chapter 88~ A break

    Lora''s eyes widened, taken aback by Jason''s bold words. How could he say that so easily in front of the kids?


    Sure enough, E looked between Lora and Jason before asking, "Is it true Mommy? Will we really have a stepfather? But I don''t want a stepfather! I want my real father!"


    Ryan clenched his jaw, seeing his daughter cry made his heartbreak. He picked her up from her seat and ced her on hisp before soothingly saying, "You''re not going to have a stepfather... I''m your one and only father."N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    He red at Jason and questioned, "What is wrong with you? How can you say that in front of the kids?"


    "I''m just saying the inevitable... after all, Lora and I will get married in the future-"


    "Jay, a word?" Lora said in a low voice.


    Jason saw that Lora was angry. He smiled at her and replied, "Sure."


    When they left the restaurant, Lora looked at Jason, anger flitting through her eyes. "How could you say that in front of the kids without discussing it with me first?"


    "I don''t think there''s anything bad with what I said... we are a couple and we will get married soon. And that would make me the twins'' stepfather... why are you so angry, were you just dating me casually with no thoughts of marriage in mind?" Jason''s jaw was clenched, his stomach knotting with nerves at the thought of losing Lora. When he received another report about the ''family'' outing, he couldn''t just sit back and watch Lora slowly go back into Ryan''s arms. Thus, he followed them to the restaurant and pretended to bump into them coincidentally.


    Lora''s heart twisted with guilt when she saw Jason''s hurt expression. She did give Jason a chance but she couldn''t give him her heart.


    "Jay, I-"


    Jason scoffed, cutting Lora off. He questioned, "Are you really over him? Am I just someone who was there to fill the void? I have been calling you since yesterday... is he the reason you decided not to pick up my calls?"


    Hurt and anger shed through his eyes as he looked into Lora''s eyes and continued, "Are you getting back together with him? Is that why you''re here with him and the kids, looking like a happy family?"


    Lora felt a pang in her chest as conflicted emotions red through her. Jason had been a good friend to her... he was kind to her and he treated her very well. Thus, she cared for him deeply.


    However, Ryan had managed to stir emotions that she thought she had buried a long time ago. He managed to crack the icy walls that she had built around her heart, melting the defences she had put up to protect herself from falling in love again.


    Lora looked into Jason''s eyes and the pain in them made her stomach churn. She sighed and replied, "It''s not like that, Jason. Ryan just wanted to spend time with the kids and since he''s injured, I tagged along to make it easier for him. It was only for the twins'' sake."


    Jason ran a hand through his hair before he asked, "So, are you going to make up with him for the twins'' sake?"


    A lump formed in Lora''s throat but before she could reply, Jason grabbed her arms and said, "You deserve someone who won''t treat you like a second option. I''ve loved only you, Lora... no one else," Jason remarked desperately. "I heard about your story... how Ryan chose to save Ivy and left you to die in the warehouse. Don''t tell me you''re going to return to the man who didn''t choose you?"


    "Enough, Jason!" Lora hissed, anger ring through her at the reminder of the past. "I''ve already exined why I''m having breakfast with Ryan and the kids. If there''s nothing else, I''ll see youter."  en


    "Lora, perhaps you should figure out what you really want instead of giving me half of you... I suggest we go on a break but I want you to think about who''s really genuine... a man who chose another woman instead of you or a man who has always been there for you and put you first," Jason remarked with a tight smile before turning and walking away.


    Lora was left bereft of any words, her heart pounding rapidly in her chest as guilt and confusion crept into her.


    On the other hand, inside the restaurant, E looked up at Ryan, and said, "Daddy, I think Mommy and Uncle Jason are fighting."


    Ryan furrowed his eyebrows, jealousy searing through him. The way Jason came in like Lora belonged to him or something... It made his blood boil.


    There was no way in hell he would ever give up Lora for anyone; she was his strength, his heart and his soul and he was determined to fight for her until she became his again.


    He smiled at E and remarked, "Finish your food, E. Mommy and Uncle Jason are just talking."


    "No, they are fighting. Mommy is so angry... do you know what that means?" E asked, her eyes gleaming with calction.


    Ryan frowned, wondering what his adorable daughter was up to. He shook his head and replied, "No, I don''t."


    E giggled and said, "It means Mommy is upset with Uncle Jason, so..."


    "This is your chance to win her over. Do we have to tell you everything?" Ethan chipped in annoyance.


    Ryan''s eyes slightly widened as a lightbulb went off in his head. Indeed, Lora didn''t look pleased with Jason. This was his chance topletely win her heart and erase Jason from her life forever. Looking at his children, Ryan stated, "Don''t worry, I''ll use this opportunity to show your mommy that I can make her the happiest woman in the world."


    ...


    When Lora returned to the restaurant, she found Ryan coughing so badly. She furrowed her eyebrows, asking, "Hey... are you ok?"


    "No, Daddy is not ok, Mommy. Let''s take him back home," E requested, her eyes watering. "We can take him back to his house when he''s better."

 Chapter 89~ Little helpers

    Lora furrowed her eyebrows, looking down at the man sleeping on the bed, nked by the twins on either side. Hours earlier, she had agreed to her daughter''s request, her pleading eyes making it difficult for her to refuse her. Although Lora knew Ryan was exaggerating, the weariness in his eyes told her there was something she was missing.


    Why did he look so tired and worn out? And was it just in her mind or he had lost weight?


    Lora had noticed that Ryan''s skin had be pale after the ident. She didn''t know if it was because he lost a lot of blood or if there was something wrong with him. Could his injuries be more serious than he let on?


    When they returned, Ryan yed with the kids and listened to their stories. However, he immediately fell asleep after having dinner.


    It was strange because Ryan wasn''t an early sleeper. The kids had asked if they could sleep with their father and seeing them look sofortable with him warmed her heart.


    Lora''s phone suddenly rang and she quickly left the guest room to pick it up.


    She smiled when she saw that it was Charles Kingsley, Ryan''s grandfather.


    "Hello, Grandpa," she said on the phone.


    "Hello, Lora. Is Ryan still with you? I''m worried about him," Charles replied.


    "He''s here... there was a small problem and he felt sick so he spent the night herest night," Lora replied, feeling guilty about what her father did.


    "Really? Is he sleeping there tonight too?" Charles asked, his voiceced with excitement.


    "I''ll tell him to return home imme-"


    "I''m not around, dear, so there''s no one to take care of him. Since he''s already there, just keep him. In fact, he''s too old to live with his parents. I''ve chased him out of the house. You can keep him!" Charles eximed. "Grandpa-"


    "Yes? Are you calling for me? Ok, I''ming! Let me just end this call," Charles yelled to someone on the other side of the phone. He then spoke to Lora, "Lora, I''m very busy right now. I''ll leave my grandson in your hands. Make sure you take care of him... if it''s possible, don''t bring him back!"


    Lora, "...."


    When the call cut, Lora shook her head and chuckled. She nced back at the door and sighed. Ryan had already fallen asleep anyway... he could just leave the next day. Besides, the kids were happy to have him around.


    Meanwhile, inside the guest room, Ryan and the twins opened their eyes.N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    E giggled and said, "See, Daddy? It worked! Mommy has let you stay with us."


    "I think I might be able to win her back soon," Ryan remarked, smiling.


    Ethan shook his head and stated, "You''re not doing enough, Daddy. Uncle Jason used to bring Mommy flowers and gifts, yet all you''re doing is give her empty words. If you buy her flowers and take her out to nice ces, she will be happy."


    E agreed with her brother, saying, "If you do something special for Mommy, she will feel happy and marry you."


    Ryan''s heart swelled at the children''s words. He was happy to know that he was blessed with little helpers.


    Nodding, he replied, "I hear you... don''t worry, leave it to me. I won''t disappoint you."


    ...


    The next day, during breakfast, Jack red at Ryan and said, "You spent the weekend at my house, one would think you''re my live-in son-inw."


    Ryan''s eyes lit up. He looked at Jack and requested, "Would you ept me as your live-in son-inw?"


    "What?" Jack''s eyes widened.


    Lora also nced at Ryan, wondering where he was going with this.


    "Since Lora doesn''t want to live with me, I can move into the mansion as your live-in son-inw," Ryan proimed, making Lora gasp.


    Jack narrowed his eyes at Ryan and asked, "Are you willing to marry into the Davis family? Will your family allow that?"


    "Yes, I''m witting. As long as I get to


    be with Lora and the children, the order of things doesn''t matter. For them, can be a Davis," Ryan


    dered, a serious look on his face.


    The two men stared at each other. One looked sincere while the other was trying to see how genuine the young man was.


    Lora sighed. She nced at the two men and said, "Enough of this... Dad, no one is marrying into the Davis family. First of all, Ryan and I are not together anymore. Secondly, he has apany to run, so he needs hisst name and he has assets to protect."


    "It doesn''t matter because what I have is yours," Ryan remarked, looking at Lora. "I can give my name up if it means I get to share the rest of my life with you." Lora''s heart skipped a beat as butterflies fluttered in her stomach.


    She cleared her throat and uttered, "Well, I don''t want you to do that... can we not talk about this?"


    Ryan sighed internally, clutching his fork tightly. He didn''t want to make Lora ufortable, so he replied, "Sure... let''s eat."


    When they were done with breakfast, E demanded, "I want Mommy and Daddy to take us to school together."


    Ethan nodded and said, "It will be nice to go with both parents for a change."


    "That''s right. Then everyone will know we have a father. They won''t think Daddy abandoned us anymore," E remarked.


    The adults at the table shared a nce, the children''s words getting to them.


    Jack smiled at the kids and uttered, "Who would dare say that to you? Your father is right here. How can he abandon such cute babies?" He


    paused and added, "Grandpa we


    take you to school today, your parents will take you."


    "Yay!" E squealed.


    Ryan turned to look at Lora, his heart clenching. He needed to bring her back to his side as soon as possible.


    Soon, Lora and Ryan dropped the kids off at school.


    E looked at them and asked, "Why aren''t you holding hands? Other parents hold hands as they wave at their children."


    Lora chuckled. She was about to reply when she felt Ryan''srge hand take hers.


    Looking at him, her heart fluttered as she said, "We don''t have to do everything they say."


    "I want to," Ryan remarked before bringing her hand to his lips and giving it a gentle kiss. "Yay, Mommy and Daddy love each other!" E eximed. "Bye, Mommy, bye Daddy!"


    Ethan held E''s hand and waved at their parents before leading her into the schoolyard.


    At the same time, Ryan''s heart felt full. He didn''t know something as simple as taking his children to school would make him feel so happy.


    ...


    Later in the day, Lora suddenly received a bouquet of premium red roses. She thought they were from Jason, however, the card said otherwise.


    [I hope these flowers make you smile.]


    [Your husband.]

 Chapter 90~ My woman

    "Ma''am, Mr Anderson really loves you... you''re already dating but he''s still sending you flowers. And these look different than the usual... they look expensive," Hannah Collins, Lora''s assistant, remarked.


    Lora nced at the flowers in the vase near her desk, her heart doing a little flip. She too had thought it was Jason who sent her the flowers. However, since the sender was daring enough to im to be her husband, it could only be Ryan. "These are not from Jason. They are from Ryan," Lora replied and Hannah''s eyes rounded.


    "Mr Kingsley sent you flowers? Are you two-?"


    "No, we are not. Don''t you have work to do, Hannah?" Lora asked, furrowing her eyebrows.


    "I do... but I just thought that maybe you and Mr Kingsley reconciled and that''s why he''s sending you flowers," Hannah remarked.


    "No, we did not. Although we are friends now, I can''t be with him again. He was with Ivy after all," Lora remarked, sadness creeping into her.


    Although she could see that Ryan had changed, she couldn''t forget that he had been with Ivy for thest six years. That was a fact that wouldn''t go away.


    "I think you can give Mr Kingsley a chance since he got rid of that scheming woman-"


    "Hannah, can we not talk about Ryan? I have a lot of things to do," Lora interrupted, her eyebrows creasing.


    She wanted to avoid that topic as much as possible because it only brought confusion.


    Meanwhile, on the other part of the city, Ryan nced at his assistant and asked, "Did you deliver the flowers to Lora?"


    "Yes, I did, Sir," Lawrence responded.


    Ryan checked his phone for the umpteenth time and frowned. He looked at Lawrence and asked again, "Did you get the address right?"


    "Yes, Sir. I sent the flowers to Davis & Co. and they''ve been delivered to Miss Davis," Lawrence replied.


    ''Why isn''t she saying anything if she''s received the flowers?'' Ryan asked himself, his heart sinking to the pits of his stomach.


    As if he could read his boss'' mind, Lawrence suggested, "Why don''t you call her to find out what she thinks about you sending her flowers?" Ryan''s eyes lit up. He replied, "You''re right. I''ll call her."


    Unfortunately, when Ryan tried to call Lora, her phone went unanswered, making Ryan''s stomach twist and turn.


    ''Is she avoiding me?'' He asked in his mind. Chasing after his wife was certainly not easy.


    A knock at the door brought him back to the present.


    "Come in," he said and the doors opened, revealing Diane, his young sister.


    "Bro, I know you''re a workaholic but you''re on bed rest. You weren''t supposed toe for work," Diane stated, a frown crossing her face.


    "ed to put a few things in order before I take my leave," Ryan said. "I might take some time to return, so I have to settle things here first."


    "What do you mean? Are you going somewhere?" Diane asked, feeling confused.


    Ryan arched an eyebrow and asked, "Didn''t you just tell me to go on bed rest?"


    "I know but you sound like you''re going away for a long time," Diane remarked.


    "Yeah... it''s a well-deserved rest and once I go on leave, I want you to oversee thepany. Don''t let vultures try to take over," Ryan said and Diane nced at him suspiciously.


    "You usually oversee thepany even when you''re on leave... Ryan, what''s going on? Are you hiding something?"


    Ryan rolled his eyes and replied, "Women... you''re soplicated. Just a few seconds earlier, you asked me to stay home to rest and now that I n to do so, you''re questioning why I want to rest."


    Diane narrowed her eyes, ncing at her brother. When she saw the bags under his eyes, her stomach knotted with worry. ''He must be so exhausted that he wants to go on a leave for a long time,'' she mused. Smiling, she responded, "It''s fine. You rest. I''ll protect thepany."


    "Good," Ryan replied.


    "Well, I just came to see how you''re doing. I''m going to Davis & Co. to see Lora. We haven''t really talked since you''re all over her most of the time," Diane remarked and a gleam of joy shed through Ryan''s eyes.


    "I''ll take you," he offered.


    "No, I came with my driver-"


    "It''s better if your big brother drives you there, little sis. I may be injured, but I''m the best person who can protect you," Ryan insisted.


    Diane chuckled, thinking, ''Since when is Ryan so cute? It''s obvious he wants to see Lora.''


    "Ok... you can take me. I might have lunch with Lora too," she stated.


    "Then it won''t be a bad idea to join you guys for lunch because I''m starving," Ryan said before grabbing his car keys and getting to his feet.


    ...


    A little whileter, Lora had just walked out of her office when Lewis Hendrix approached her.


    "Can I help you?" Lora asked, arching an eyebrow.


    "Aren''t you shameless? You took


    days off just a few weeks after you took over as CEO and I had to run things around here again. Now you''re back like it''s nothing when you do no work around here tewis hissed, anger flitting through his eyes.


    "Excuse me?"Lora snapped, tired of the man''s attitude. "If you have a problem with me, you can go ahead and whine to the shareholders


    at. I


    because that''s what you''re good. no


    have no time to waste on you."


    "You don''t deserve that position and I swear, I''ll do whatever it takes to drag you down- Argh!"


    Lewis groaned when he was suddenly punched in the face.


    Lora gasped and turned to see Ryan who was furiously ring at Lewis as he warned, "The next time you disrespect my woman like that, it won''t end with just one punch."Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.

 Chapter 91~ Which husband?

    Lora had been unable to work after receiving flowers from one Ryan Kingsley.


    It didn''t help that the fragrance of the roses kept spreading through her office, a reminder of Ryan''s odd actions.


    It was shocking.


    Ryan? Sending flowers?


    He wasn''t one to do that.


    As a handsome, rich man, Ryan wasn''t the type to grovel at anyone''s feet. He took what he wanted, when he wanted. So, Lora was caught off guard when he surprised her with red roses of premium quality. Could he have hit his head when he saved herst time?


    Lora was deep in her thoughts when she received a call from Aiden Davis.


    "Hello, kiddo. I''ll be leaving for a few weeks, wannae out for lunch? My treat," Aiden said on the phone.


    Lora''s eyes lit up. Perhaps her favorite uncle would help to keep her mind off a certain someone.


    She quickly got to her feet and left the office but she didn''t expect to run into Lewis Hendrix.


    The man looked like a dangerous thug. His eyes were cold and full of hatred for Lora as he red at her.


    "Can I help you?" Lora asked, arching an eyebrow.


    Although she wasn''t scared of the man, her heart couldn''t help but race at the murderous intent that was shing through his eyes.


    After the kidnapping incident, she had gotten leave to get over her shock and took the opportunity to nurse Ryan back to health. During that time, Lewis ran things at thepany since he was already familiar with it.N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    Lora was about to thank him when he spat at her. "I hate people like you who want to reap where they did not sow. You don''t need to work hard to have something as it''s easily delivered to you on a silver tter. Why didn''t you stay out ofpany affairs and leave them to men who could handle it? You''re better off being Ryan Kingsley''s little bitch."


    Lora furrowed her eyebrows and clenched her hands into fists. She knew Lewis was behind the shipment loss thest time but she let the incident go for the sake of the work he contributed to thepany.


    How dare he disrespect her in her ownpany?


    She didn''t have time to argue with a crazy person. However, Lewis seemed to be out of his mind that day as he continued to berate Lora.


    "You don''t deserve that position. I''ll do whatever it takes to drag you down- Argh!"


    Before Lora could tell what was happening, Lewis'' words were cut off by a hard punch to his face, tilting his head to the side.


    Her eyes widened when she saw Ryan ring at Lewis, his warning words lingering in her mind.


    "Stay away from my woman. She''s your boss, not your friend," Ryan hissed and Lewis quickly walked away.


    A whistle brought Lora back to the present just as Diane came into view.


    "Oh my... my big brother is going all out this time. Didn''t he look hot when he did that, Lora?" She remarked and Lora blushed.


    ncing at Ryan, she said, "You didn''t have to do that. I can take care of myself and if he tries anything, I have a lot of bodyguards." Ryan gave a small smirk before replying, "I know but I can''t leave my woman''s protection in the hands of other men."


    Lora''s heart did a somersault.


    He said it again... his woman. Why was that so hot?


    Lora couldn''t help the butterflies that fluttered in her stomach. She was a strong, independent woman but it certainly felt good when someone had your back.


    "Are you going somewhere? I came to see you and treat you to lunch," Diane offered, a warm smile on her face. "We haven''t talked since I found out you''re Larisa." Lora bit her lower lip, feeling bad for lying to Diane.


    She replied, "I''m going for lunch but you can join me."


    "Great!" Diane eximed. She nced at Ryan and added, "My brother has to take his medication so I asked him to join us for lunch before he does. You know how he is... he might not take his meds if we don''t monitor him."


    Lora frowned at Ryan. Did he still have the habit of not taking medication? What was he? Five?


    Even Ethan and E were obedient and mindful of their health.


    "Mr Kingsley, didn''t know you hate


    yourself so much. Not only have you gone back to work when your


    ep


    injuries are not healed, but you. also don''t religiously take your medication. Do you have a death wish?" Lora scolded.


    Ryan let out a low chuckle before he remarked, "I didn''t know nagging would sound like a beautiful song to my ears. I''ve heard you, my wife... I''ll eat and take the meds." "You-" Lora blushed profusely. What part of what she said sounded like nagging?


    When they arrived at the restaurant, Ryan looked at Lora and asked, "Did the flowers make you smile?"


    "Are you the one that sent them? There was no name, so I threw them in the trash," Lora responded, causing Ryan''s eyebrows to crease.


    "It was clearly written on the card. The flowers were from your husband," Ryan said.


    "Which husband?" Lora asked, blinking her eyes innocently.


    "How many husbands do you have?" Ryan asked. "I''m your only husband under the eyes of thew."


    Lora rolled her eyes. "You make it sound like it''s an achievement."


    "It is," Ryan''s voice was low and


    seductive when he responded. "Igust didn''t know it at that time but now I know, marrying you was the best thing that ever happened to me."


    Lora was about to reply when Diane suddenly gasped. She eximed, "What is he doing here?!"


    They all turned to see a casually dressed man heading their way. His simple outfit made him look more handsome and alluring.


    When he approached them, his captivating hazel eyes fell on Diane and a smirk crossed his lips as he said, "Hello, neighbour. Long time, no see."

 Chapter 92~ Divorce

    "Neighbour?" Ryan arched an eyebrow as he looked between Aiden and his sister. "Since when?"


    "Um... he lives next to my apartment," Diane replied, her face blushing when she recalled the incident when she thought Aiden had been stalking her. That was the most embarrassing moment of her life.


    "I didn''t know you''re now neighbours with my Uncle Aiden, Diane. Is he still a pervert?" Lora asked yfully, making Diane''s blush deepen.


    Although Diane was embarrassed, deep down she thought. ''So, his name is Aiden? It''s quite a nice name.''


    Aiden smirked when he saw Diane''s expression, however, he didn''t want to tease her in front of her brother, so he suggested, "How about we go into the restaurant? I''m starving."


    They walked into the restaurant and found a table. After ordering food, Aiden nced at Ryan and asked, "How far with the search for Ivy Williams?"


    Ryan creased his eyebrows. The mention of Ivy Williams always reminded him of how stupid he had been for so many years.


    If only he had seen through her lies earlier, none of what they were going through would have happened.


    He was responsible for putting his family in danger because he kept that woman close. It was his biggest regret.


    "There''s nothing yet. But with the reward I''ve put up, I''m very sure we will hear some news soon," Ryan replied, his jaw tightening.


    It was like Ivy had disappeared from the face of the earth. There was no sign of her leaving the city, so he was certain she was within. But where?


    All the Williams'' property had been searched thoroughly, however, there was no trace of Ivy Williams.


    "Great... my team is also trying to trace her movements through her parents. However, they haven''t made any suspicious calls yet. I do hope that for your sake, that vicious woman is found and put behind bars. If she ever hurts my niece again, I''ll hold you responsible for it," Aiden warned in a low voice, his face bing serious.


    "You don''t have to worry. Lora''s life is like my own now... I''ll protect it the way I would protect myself," Ryan dered.


    "Ok, you two. Enough of all this serious talk... you''re making the atmosphere tense," Diane interrupted. She raised her ss of wine and said, "How about a toast to Lora? She''s a very strong woman who survived a murder attempt, this is to her being alive." "Diane..." Lora''s cheeks flushed pink. "That''s not necessary-"


    "Of course it is! To me, you''re a superhuman, a survivor! God, you don''t know how happy I am that you''re alive," Diane remarked.


    Ryan smiled. He raised his ss and chipped in, "Diane''s right. You''re the strongest woman I know, Lora. Thank you for being alive... here''s to you."


    Aiden raised his ss too and Lora had no option but to clink her ss with everyone''s.


    She cleared her throat and said, "Ok, that''s enough. I owe my life to my parents. They are the ones who saved me."


    The food was served and they began to eat, sharing a few words here and there.


    When they were done and dessert was served, Aiden nced at Lora and remarked, "Well, since your identity is out and you don''t need to hide anymore, when are you two getting a divorce? You''ve been separated for six years anyway."


    Dead silence fell over the table.


    It was Diane who gasped and rounded her eyes at Lora, asking, "What? Do you want to divorce my brother, Lora?"


    Lora gave a faint smile. She calmly replied, "Since we are not together anymore, that''s the best solution we have."


    Ryan felt a pang of pain shoot through his heart. Lora''s words stung.


    ''She wants to divorce me,'' he mused in his mind.


    It was never his intention to get a divorce. Since he was pursuing Lora anyway, their legal marriage was the only thing connecting them together. Wouldn''t he lose her forever if they divorced?


    Diane nced at her brother''s sad


    face before turning to Lora, saying, "I


    thought you two were getting along well. Why do you still want to divorce? Are you finding it hard to forgive my brother? Please forgive him, he''s really sorry and he loves you very much."


    "Would you easily forgive a man who hurt you deeply?" It was Aiden who spoke this time, directing the


    question towards Diane. "You''v


    never been hurt before... who are you to decide whether she forgives


    him or not?"


    A look of hurt shed through Diane''s eyes, sadness creeping into her. She red at Aiden and asked, "What would you know? Just because I''m always smiling, doesn''t mean I''ve had it easy."


    The tension seemed to be growing in the air, so Lora interrupted, "Hey, we came over for lunch, not to fight. Let''s talk about other things."N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    Lora''s words changed the topic. However, Ryan was in a sour mood.


    He thought there had been progress with Lora, but it seemed no matter what he did right now, it couldn''t erase the pain he made her go through six years ago.


    ...


    Later on, Ryan and Adan met at their usual spot for a drink.


    Adan nced at his friend who kept chugging down drinks like he was trying to beat a record.


    "Did you invite me here for a drink or to watch you drown yourself in alcohol? What''s wrong with you? Things not going well with Lora?" Adan asked.


    Silence followed Adan''s question.


    It was only after a while that Ryan said, "I don''t know what to do to make Lora forgive me, Adan. I really wish I could turn back time. I would never hurt her the way I did. I''m such a fool."


    After those words, Ryan did something even more shocking to Adan. Tears rolled down his cheeks, and he wept.


    "It''s all my fault," he proimed through sobs. "She loved me... and yet, I took her for granted... And now, I''ve lost herpletely."

 Chapter 93~ Pleading for his friend

    Adan Nicholson frowned when he saw his friend break down.N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    He felt bad because Ryan had been this way for six years. Although he never really expressed his feelings, he mostly drowned himself in alcohol, a look of regret crossing his face.


    Was he going to sink into that hole of despair once again?


    "Have you exined everything to her?" He asked after Ryan''s sobbing reduced.


    "I have... well, not everything. After all, I was the one responsible for saving and protecting her. I was her husband for fucksakes. I can''t me others for my ipetence," Ryan replied, his voice hoarse and his eyes red from crying. Whatever exnation he had didn''t matter... it would still be an excuse. The fact was that he had failed Lora and he was paying for it at the moment.


    Adan sighed, guilt creeping into him. If this continued, he was afraid Ryan would lose himself again.


    When they parted ways, he took out his phone and called his assistant.


    "I want you to find out Lora Davis'' schedule," he instructed before cutting the call.


    Ryan was his best friend and he was like a brother to him. Adan couldn''t stand seeing him look so helpless. He had to do something.


    The next day, Lora attended a business seminar at one of the hotels in the city.


    It was there that she met one Adan Nicholson during lunch.


    She was at the buffet when he approached her, saying, "Lora, good to see you."


    Lora nced at Adan and smiled. She replied, "Good to see you too... although I didn''t think you attended these kinds of events."


    "I''m a businessman too, Lora," Adan said before picking up a te and joining Lora in getting some food.


    "So, I hear you want to formalise your separation from Ryan?" Adan stated and Lora arched an eyebrow.


    "I see that Ryan has already snitched," Lora remarked.


    "He''s my best friend. I know almost everything about him. Just like Bianca knows almost everything about you," Adan responded.


    "Well, it was long overdue. There was no marriage anyway... since we''ve been separated for six years. We just have to put it on paper," Lora said.


    They finished ting their food and walked towards one of the empty tables. It was from there that Adan uttered, "I''m part of the reason why you couldn''t be saved in time before the explosion."


    Lora''s heart skipped a beat. She nced at Adan, her eyebrows creasing.


    What did he mean he was part of the reason why she couldn''t be saved? Wasn''t Ryan choosing to save Ivy first the only reason?


    Actually, Lora somehow understood Ryan. They were both kidnapped and the kidnapper asked him to save one person. He probably chose Ivy because she was the weakest and most vulnerable at that time. However, it all turned out to be a lie. Ivy was never disabled and was ying with Ryan''s mind and kindness.


    Lora sighed and said, "You don''t need to exin, I already understand why Ryan did it. To be honest, I would probably do the same-saving someone vulnerable first beforeing back for the able-bodied one."


    "No... it''s not like that," Adan uttered. He looked at Lora and continued, "He never came alone that night. I was with him and a few of our men but because he was asked to go alone had to hide somewhere Ryan went in and was faced with a difficult choice to make. He prioritised saving Ivy because of her condition, confident that I would save you in time before he rushed back for you."


    Lora frowned, her heart racing as she listened.


    "Ryan is smart. Did you really think he woulde alone on such a dangerous mission?" Adan asked and then added,


    "He just didn''t say anything because


    he doesn''t want to me me. I was about to charge in with our men the moment Ryan took Ivy out, however, we suddenly saw the thugs run away and since I knew that Ryan woulde back for you anyway, I decided to direct our men tochase after the thugs... leaving you in the warehouse. I didn''t know they had set the ce aze until I saw the explosion. I tried to run back but I was toote and Ryan was toote too... the fire was too huge, no one could go in or out."


    Lora''s stomach churned. It turned out that Ryan was telling the truth. He dide back for her.


    "If only we knew that Ivy was behind that kidnapping and that she had no intention of letting you live, I swear, Ryan would have saved you first and would have cared less about Ivy," Adan added.


    "But... didn''t Ryan love Ivy at that time? I remember him spending most of his time with her when she returned," Lora asked.


    "Love? Ryan never loved Ivy and he


    never spent most of his time with her either. That day when she returned, Ryan was shocked to still see her in a wheelchair. He didn''t know at that time but most of her injuries were self-inflicted to


    manipte him... when we


    Pal


    thought you died, Ryan regretted it so much. In thest six years, he had never been intimate with Ivy... nothing happened between them. In the eyes of the public, they were a couple but in reality, Ryan only had you in his heart. You''re the only one he''s ever loved..."


    Lora''s heart skipped another beat. To be honest, she was afraid of love. That thing was scary if it wasn''t reciprocated.


    The pain, the anguish, the jealousy that came with it was unbearable. She had promised herself she would protect her heart so that she wouldn''t feel that sort of pain ever again. However, Adan''s words kept ringing in her mind, slowly breaking her resolve.


    Ryan was never with Ivy...


    "Ryan loves you, Lora. Only you. Please give him another chance," Adan pleaded for his friend.

 Chapter 94~ Love cant be forced

    Lora walked into the restaurant just as her phone rang. When she saw that it was Ryan calling, she picked up and said, "Hello, Ryan." "Lora, where are you? I came to pick you up from work... wanted to take you home," Ryan said on the phone. "ed to make sure you''re safe." "I''m moving with security and I have a bodyguard for a driver. You don''t have to worry about me," Lora replied.


    She looked around the restaurant and saw Jason seated at the table near the window. Their eyes met and Jason smiled before waving at Lora.


    Lora forced a smile and began to approach him, the weight of what she was about to do weighing down on her.


    After her little chat with Adan, Lora had finally made a decision. She couldn''t lie to herself anymore. She was still in love with Ryan.


    "I know... I wanted to ask you out on a date tonight. I know you''re not sure about us-"


    "Can I take a rain check? I''m a bit busy today but we can go tomorrow," Lora suggested.


    There was a pause from the other side of the phone before Ryan''s voice echoed through the speaker.


    "Are you saying you''re willing to go out on a date with me?" He asked, his voiceced with excitement like a child who had been promised his favorite candy.


    Lora smiled and replied, "Of course. I''ll see you tomorrow."


    There was something she needed to sort out before meeting him.


    By the time Lora cut the call, she had arrived at the table. Jason stood up and helped to pull back her chair before going back to his seat.


    The air between the two was awkward. After ordering food and drinks, Jason cleared his throat and said, "I don''t know if I should be happy that you invited me for dinner. Something tells me I won''t like what you will say." Lora gulped, guilt twisting her stomach, knowing she was about to hurt him.


    She nced at Jason and words caught in her throat.N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    How was she supposed to say it?


    "Lora?" Jason remarked when Lora kept quiet for some time.


    "Um... Jay, you know I like you very much and I care about you," Lora said, the words feeling like a heavy boulder settling on her shoulders.


    Jason gave a half smile. He nodded and replied, "Yes, I know. You''ve mentioned it so many times."


    Lora let out a sigh, her stomach knotting before she uttered, "I may like and care about you but it''s only as a friend. I''m sorry that I epted to be your girlfriend. The truth was that I thought I would learn to love you... but that''s not how it works." Silence fell over them. The tension in the air was so thick, it could be cut with a knife.


    Lora could see that Jason''s mood had changed and her heart sank to the pits of her stomach.


    Jason looked at her and asked, "So, what are you saying? I told you I''m patient. I''ve never pushed you to fall in love with me quickly... I can wait for you for so many years until you finally fall in love with me."


    Lora sighed before shaking her


    head. "I can''t do this anymore,


    Jason. I''m not in love with you... and


    even though you knew that from the beginning, I''m deeply sorry. It was never my intention to hurt you."


    Looking into Jason''s eyes, she added, "You''re a very good man, Jay. Believe me when I say doing this hurts so much... I honestly shouldn''t have agreed to date you-"


    "Is it because of him? Have you decided to go back to him?" Jason questioned, his jaw tight from anger.


    Lora fell silent, the lump in her throat refusing to go down.


    She replied, "I thought I didn''t love him anymore-"


    Jason scoffed, cutting Lora''s words.


    "You still love him? After everything he did to you? Did you forget all the pain he caused you? How his actions separated your children from their father?" Jason


    questioned, anger flickering through his eyes.


    "I gave you a break to figure things out because hoped you would see that I''m the right man for you. What has that man done to deserve you? Heck, why is everything so easy for him? The only thing that I wanted for myself, he couldn''t help but steal that too......."


    Jason trailed when he realised that he had overspoken.


    Lora was feeling guilty but she furrowed her eyebrows when she heard Jason''sst words.


    She asked, "What do you mean by he stole the only thing you wanted for yourself too? What else did he steal? Did you know Ryan beforeing to the city?"


    Jason hesitated. He grabbed Lora''s hand and said, "I can''t tell you anything right now but Ryan can''t be trusted. He''s not a good man, Lora. Don''t go back to him. He will only hurt you." Lora narrowed her eyes at Jason before pulling her hand out of his hold. He was acting strange and she didn''t like it.


    Looking him in the eyes, she uttered, "I hope you forgive me, Jay. But this is the end for us. I hope you can find a sweet woman who will fall in love with you because you deserve to be loved." With that, Lora got to her feet and left the restaurant, ignoring Jason''s desperate calls.


    She steeled her heart and left without looking back.


    ''I''m so sorry, Jason, but love can''t be forced,'' she mused, her heart filled with guilt.


    ...


    A little whileter...


    Ryan was at his penthouse when he heard the doorbell ring.


    When he opened the door, he was shocked to find Lora standing outside.


    "Lora? What are you doing here?" Ryan asked with an arched eyebrow.


    "I came......" Lora trailed.


    Before Ryan could tell what was happening, Lora got closer and stood on her toes before wrapping her arms around his neck.


    "...to do this," Lora continued before crashing her lips on his in a fiery kiss.

 Chapter 95~ Whole again

    Ryan''s heart skipped a beat, a thousand emotions washing over him.


    Was he dreaming?


    Was the woman in his arms real?


    He couldn''t believe it...N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    However, Lora''s lips moved against his so passionately, igniting a spark of desire within him.


    Although he was taken aback by Lora''s actions, Ryan wrapped his arms around her waist, pulling her closer before kicking the door shut.


    He cupped the back of her head before taking charge and deepening the kiss.


    Fireworks exploded and sparks flew around them as they kissed so intensely.


    Deep down, Ryan did a happy dance in his heart.


    It was real!


    Lora kissed him!


    It felt so surreal... as if he was living in a fantasy world where Lora could willingly kiss him.


    However, the vivid taste of her lips and the thousands of tingles rushing through him brought him back to reality. Lora was in his arms, kissing him like How long had he been longing for a kiss like that? A kiss that could ry one''s true feelings.


    Ryan pushed Lora gently against the door before pulling away from the kiss. His heart was pounding hard as he searched for something in her eyes. "Lora," he said in his deep velvety voice. "Does this mean you''re giving me another chance?"


    Lora smiled, looking up into Ryan''s gray eyes. A sigh of relief washed over her... the heaviness in her chest instantly disappearing.


    Indeed, everything was much better when one stopped fighting their own feelings.


    Now that she had made a decision to give Ryan a chance, she felt light and the bitterness in her heart had vanished into thin air.


    "I broke up with Jason," Lora replied. "That was why I couldn''t meet you earlier."


    She was touched when Adan pleaded for his friend and exined Ivy and Ryan''s rtionship. It was more clear when it came from a third party.


    Adan had no reason to lie to Lora and she could see that he was genuinely worried about his friend.


    After she broke up with Jason, Lora found herself heading towards the Kingsley mansion.


    She wanted to see Ryan and surprise him by telling him about her decision.


    However, she found that he had returned to live at his penthouse. So, she had no option but to go there to see him.


    The kiss was unnned but the moment Ryan opened the door and Lora saw that handsome face of his, she couldn''t help it.


    She took the initiative to kiss him.


    When their lips met, Lora felt like she was floating on cloud nine. It felt so good to kiss Ryan with the thoughts of reuniting with him.


    Ryan''s eyes slightly widened at


    Lora''s words. He looked into her eyes and asked, "Are you sure? You''re from breaking up with Jason? Does that mean you''re willing to continue being my wife?"


    "Yes, I had to break up with him before-"


    Ryan sealed Lora''s lips with his, kissing her deeply, yet so gently as though she was a delicate porcin doll that he didn''t want to break.


    Lora''s heart fluttered at the way Ryan kissed her. So passionately and intense, it made the butterflies in her stomach go wild.


    She could feel his emotions through that kiss... he had poured his longing, his desire and his love into it.


    I was the first and thest.


    He kissed her as though tomorrow would nevere, causing electric jolts to rush through her body and soon, she felt a sensation in herher regions.


    How long had it been since she felt that way? It was only Ryan who could ignite the passion buried within her.


    His kiss, his touch, his scent... everything about Ryan was so addicting at the moment and Lora ended up losing herself in him.


    It couldn''t be helped. Lora moaned against Ryan''s lips, pushing herself closer to his body.


    She wanted to feel his body against hers... to feel his warmth.


    In return, Ryan slid his hand under her shirt, caressing her waist softly, leaving tingles in his wake.


    "I missed you so much, Lora," Ryan remarked between kisses, his voice husky.


    He left Lora''s lips and trailed kisses along her neck, making his way down to her corbone. After a few hot kisses, he recaptured her lips, kissing her like his life depended on it. Sparks continued to fly between them as the whole world seemed to fade away, leaving only the two of them.


    It was only when Ryan''s erect manhood throbbed against Lora that he pulled away from the kiss and ced his forehead against hers.


    They were both breathing heavily as they tried toe down from their high.


    "I can now breathe, Lora. Thank you for epting me... I swear, I''ll treat you right this time. I know how it feels to lose you. ver want to go through that again," Ryan rasped, his hands cupping Lora''s face


    He couldn''t contain the happiness he was feeling. Lora gave him another chance and he would never take it for granted ever again.


    "I know it wasn''t easy for you to make this decision. However, I assure you that I''ll never, ever hurt you. You''re my life, my wife and my all... my oxygen," he added.


    Lora''s stomach fluttered with butterflies. She didn''t know if she had made the right decision but she had followed her heart.


    Life was all about taking risks.


    What better risk to take than taking the hand of the man whose love she once prayed for?


    "Ryan, don''t let me down again. I won''t be able to take it," she whispered as she clutched his shirt tightly.


    Ryan pulled Lora into his arms,


    holding her close before saying, "That will never happen. Only a fool would destroy something that was so difficult to obtain. I may not be perfect, but I''ll strive every day to make sure I''m the perfect husband for you. I love you, Lora Davis. Thank you for making me whole again."

 Chapter 96~ Pinch me

    "Why do you keep looking at me like that?" Lora shyly asked, her face flushing pink.


    Ryan smirked before saying, "I just can''t believe how beautiful you are."


    They were seated on a two-seater couch after their heartwarming reconciliation.


    Lora rolled her eyes. She remarked, "You don''t have to sweet talk me anymore... I''ve already agreed to give you a chance." Ryan frowned. He wrapped his arm around Lora''s waist before pulling her close so that her back was resting on his chest. "Hey... your wounds-"


    "Sshh, the wounds are healing, I''m fine," Ryan said. He wrapped his arms around Lora''s waist before cing his chin on her shoulder. "Just because I won the election, does it mean I have to stop campaigning?" "What?" Loraughed.


    The sound of herughter tickled Ryan''s heart. How long had he longed to hear that sound in his house?


    Lora pulled back to look at him over her shoulder and asked, "What kind ofparison is that?"


    "The most logical one," Ryan replied, smirking. "I was campaigning really hard... trying my best to persuade you to choose me... and luckily, you did. But that doesn''t mean I need to stop the things I was doing to make you ept me back."


    He grabbed Lora''s chin before leaning in and pecking her lips. "I have to continue showering you with loving words, I have to continue proving myself to you every day."


    Lora blushed, butterflies going wild in her stomach.


    Who was this guy and where did he hide Ryan?


    He was so flirty and sweet!


    She licked her lips, her heart thundering at the surprise peck that Ryan had given her.


    "Well, I''m notining," Lora responded before turning to lean against Ryan''s chest.


    They sat infortable silence for some time, simply enjoying each other''spany. Ryan suddenly called, "Lora?"


    "Mmmm?" Lora hummed a response.


    "Please pinch me," Ryan requested.


    "Huh? Why?" Lora asked, feeling confused.


    "I''m scared... I still feel like this is all a dream. I''m scared that I''ll wake up and you will no longer exist in this world," Ryan remarked, tightening his hold around Lora.


    Lora chuckled, thinking Ryan was being silly.


    She separated his arms from around her waist before turning around and straddling him.


    "Is this enough to show you that this is real?" She asked, wrapping her arms around his neck.


    Ryan ced his hands on Lora''s waist before looking up at her. He shook his head and said, "No... it''s not. I still feel like I''m just having a beautiful dream. I need to feel some pain- something that will make me believe that you''re in my arms right now." "How about this?" Lora asked before leaning over and pecking Ryan''s lips.


    Ryan gulped, his Adam''s apple bobbing up and down his throat. Lora saw this movement and thought it looked very sexy.


    How could he be so handsome?


    "Um..." Ryan shook his head and replied, "Perhaps if you kiss me more..."


    Lora lowered her head and crashed her lips against Ryan''s who immediately responded to the kiss with equal vigor.


    He cupped the back of her head for effect and deepened the kiss, thrusting his tongue into her mouth and tasting her vor.


    Lora''s stomach fluttered with butterflies as Ryan devoured her lips like they were the most delicious delicacy in the world.


    They kissed for quite some time, both letting up a little to catch their breath before mming their lips against each other''s once again.


    The intensity of the kiss made Lora''s core clench with need. She could feel Ryan''s rod grow beneath her and she ended up grinding on it.


    Ryan groaned, pulling Lora closer and kissing her like he wanted to embed her into his soul.


    Lora almost lost her mind from the jolts of pleasure that rushed through her. Was Ryan always such a good kisser?


    Indeed, everything was so much better when love was involved. She never experienced this side of him when they married because they didn''t marry for love.


    However, now that Ryan was in love with her... she could feel it in the way he touched and kissed her.


    She could feel how much he wanted her... his raw desire was poured into the kiss and the bulge beneath his pants was enough evidence of how much turned on he was. "Lora," Ryan moaned when he let up from the kiss. He buried his face in the crook of Lora''s neck and sucked on her skin, earning soft moans from her.


    He was pleased to know that she was equally turned on... she wanted him, just like he wanted her.


    Ryan brought his hand between them and traced the band of Lora''s pants before asking, "May I?" Lora blushed but her eyes suddenly widened in shock.


    Was Ryan asking for permission?


    She was touched and her stomach fluttered with butterflies, the feeling getting intense with each second.


    Nodding, she answered sheepishly, "Yes."


    Ryan gave her a side smirk before he crashed his lips on hers again, kissing her hard. All the while, his hand made its way into her pants before cupping her core.


    Lora shuddered at the tingly feeling. It had been long since she was touched down there, so she was a little shy.


    However, Ryan suddenly rubbed her clit and her eyes rolled to the back of her head, indescribable pleasure washing over her.


    She curled her toes when he made feather-like, circr movements on her pleasure nub. He dipped his finger into her core, wetting it with her love juice before using it to rub her clit.


    "Oh," Lora moaned when Ryan pulled away from the kiss, lowering his


    head to nce at his work. He


    delighted in watching his fingers et


    rock Lora''s world. Oh, how he


    wished it was his dick in he


    Lora rolled her hips and Ryan plunged two digits into her core, fucking her with his fingers.


    "Ah, Ryan!" Lora cried out as tingles coursed through her veins.


    "That''s it, baby," Ryan groaned, thrusting his finger faster and harder, loving the way Lora''s moans sounded like music to his ears.


    This was certainly not a dream... no dream felt like a heaven-like experience.Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    Ryan took pleasure in the way Lora reacted to his ministrations. It was like her body was meant for him to please... every shudder of her body made him impossibly hard in his pants.


    He wanted so much to push his pants down and im Lora right there and then. However, he wasn''t doing this to pleasure himself... this was about Lora and making her feel good.


    "Ryan... please," Lora moaned, not knowing what she was begging for, however, she kept rolling her hips and riding Ryan''s fingers, showing him exactly what she wanted. "Come for me," Ryan rasped before rubbing her clit again, this time faster and harder than before.


    Lora arched her back, biting her


    lower lip before a scream tore


    through her throat. She shuddered, her eyes rolling to the back of her head as an earth-shattering Orgasm ripped through her.


    When Lora came back to her senses, her face flushed pink and her eyes widened as she thought, ''Oh my god! What have I done? That was so naughty!''

 Chapter 97~ Do things right

    Although Lora and Ryan had been married and living together for three years in the past, their love-making wasn''t that great due to theck of love and affection in their rtionship. So, Lora didn''t really have the chance to explore her sexuality. She was reserved and inexperienced.


    However, as Ryan used his fingers to pleasure her down there, she felt like her veins were about to explode from the intense electric currents sizzling through her.


    The feeling was foreign, yet it felt so good. All she could do was scream in ecstasy.


    Lost in the throes of pleasure, she forgot about her shyness and rode Ryan''s fingers like a pro... taking what she wanted like the Queen she was.


    It was like her body had a mind of its own, setting the pace for what felt good for her and Ryan read her so well, moving in sync with her body.


    Lora had no idea one could seek pleasure like this.


    Happy tingles coursed through her and she didn''t know where they began or where they ended. Every part of her felt the pleasure.


    She was in heaven.


    Ryan sped up his movements and in no time, Lora''s body gave in and she came, hard.


    The intense orgasm drained all of her energy and she ended up burying her face in Ryan''s neck, breathing heavily.


    "Take off your pants," Ryan requested in his deep velvety voice.


    Lora''s core clenched in anticipation. She got to her feet, albeit with difficulty because her legs were trembling. This was the first time she was experiencing this... Seeing Ryan''s eyes that wereced with desire, Lora smirked and gave him a little show.


    Slowly but surely, she pulled down her pants and shimmied out of them, her hips swaying from side to side seductively.


    When she saw Ryan''s Adam''s apple bob, she chuckled. It was so fun to tease him.


    "Take off your panties too," Ryan ordered, his voice deeper than before.


    Lora blushed. However, still feeling the high from the orgasm, she pushed her ckce panties down.


    "Give them to me," Ryan demanded.


    Lora arched an eyebrow. However, she bent down and picked the panties up before giving them to Ryan.


    Ryan brought the panties to his nose and gave them a big whiff, making Lora''s face flush pink.


    "Mmmm, smells delicious," Ryan remarked before he ced the panties in his pocket. "This is enough for me... dress up, baby. We are not going all the way tonight." Lora frowned in confusion but she quickly put her pants on. It was only when she came back to her senses that her eyes widened in shock.


    She had shes of how she rode Ryan''s fingers and moaned without restraint. What was even worse was that she gave Ryan her panties and he sniffed them! Her face flushed a deeper shade of pink as she thought, ''Oh my god! What have I done? That was so naughty!''


    "Are you shy, baby?" Ryan asked before grabbing Lora''s hand and pulling her onto hisp. He looked down at her and smiled in amusement. How cute was she? She was like a sexy minx when he was pleasuring her earlier, but now she was shy like a little kitten.


    "Ryan, can you stop teasing me?" Lora remarked, pouting.


    However, her heart was filled with extreme happiness.


    She never thought it was possible to feel this kind of happiness with Ryan and she couldn''t help but wonder if she was dreaming as well.


    Ryan let out a low chuckle, the sound heading straight to Lora''s core, making it clench repeatedly. She mped her legs together to hold herself back from jumping on him. "Do you know why I didn''t want to go all the way tonight?" Ryan suddenly asked.


    Lora shook her head, wondering why he said that. It was clear that he was turned on, so him not asking her to pleasure him in return confused her.


    "No, I don''t. Why did you not go all the way? Don''t you want me?" She asked softly.


    Ryan tucked some stray hairs that were framing tora''s face behind her ear before he replied, "How could I not want nt you? My body craves for you... I want you so much, I can do anything to take you right now However, this is not how I want our first time of making love to be. I want to make it special for both of us... it should be memorable."


    "But we''ve already had sex before and we already have two children," Lora pointed out. She didn''t see the point in waiting.


    "I know... but what we used to do


    was have


    sex..N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    we''ve never made


    love before want to do right by you this time around. I want to do all the


    things we skipped in the past. We


    §Ö


    just got married after that one drunken night...." Ryan said, his voice trailing when he recalled the night


    that connected them forever.


    Lora was already working as his assistant back then. Ivy had left the country and Ryan got drunk from disappointment. That night, Lora took him home and one thing led to another... they had a one-night stand. Since it had already happened, Ryan decided to marry Lora to please his grandfather who was ill at that time. Who knew that it was a blessing in disguise?


    Ryan couldn''t even imagine what his life would be like if he hadn''t met Lora.


    Although Ryan wasn''t proud about their first time, he was happy that it happened because it entwined their lives forever. Now, in this life and the next, he could only love Lora Davis. No one else.


    Smiling, Ryan looked into Lora''s


    eyes and stated, "This time around, I want to do things right. We will date like normal people. When I sweep you off your feet and make you fall in love with me the way you used to, I''ll propose to you so that we can get married again."


    "Is that necessary?" Lora asked. "We are already married in the eyes of thew."


    Ryan nodded and replied, "Yes, it is necessary. I owe you a wedding, baby."

 Chapter 98~ Trial period

    "I can''t wait to have you and our children home, baby. I hate having to drop you off," Ryan said after they got out of the car when they arrived at the Davis mansion. He sighed and added, "Being a gentleman is hard."


    Ryan walked Lora to the patio of the mansion and coiled his arm around her waist, pulling her close.


    "I wish you stayed with me tonight," he remarked in his sexy husky voice.


    Lora smiled and wrapped her arms around his neck, looking up at him.


    "I know but... I have to tell Mom and Dad about our reconciliation first. Dad may have said that he won''t interfere but Mom won''t be so easy to convince," she replied. Ryan sighed again before saying, "I know. I noticed her reluctance to ept mest time. But I''ll do my best to win her over... if it means I have to eat a hundred chillies-" "Don''t even think about it, Mr Kingsley!" Lora scolded. "Try another way... not one that will put you in harm''s way."


    "Are you worried about me?" Ryan asked, arching an eyebrow.


    "Of course I am... you''re the father of my children," Lora stated.


    "And you love me?" Ryan asked hopefully.


    However, Lora didn''t reply to that. She smiled and said, "Nice n, Mr Kingsley. Trying to get me to say those three words, huh?"


    Ryan let out a low chuckle. He cupped Lora''s left cheek and remarked, "Don''t worry... I''m patient. I''ll wait until you canfortably say those magical words back to me. I love you so much."


    He lowered his head and connected his lips to hers, kissing her deeply. Lora melted into that kiss, responding to it with equal intensity and passion.


    Someone suddenly cleared their throat and Lora stepped away from Ryan like he had burned her. She looked towards the now open doors and her eyes widened to the size of dinner tes. "Mom-"


    "What are you doing? Don''t tell me you two are together again," Freya Davis questioned.


    Lora blushed, mortified that her mother caught them kissing. That was so embarrassing!


    She felt like a teen who was caught dating secretly.


    Chuckling awkwardly, she answered, "Um... Mom. You see, Ryan and I-"


    "Can I speak with you, Mrs Davis?" Ryan requested, interrupting Lora.


    He didn''t want her to exin herself. If anything, he was the one responsible for making Freya dislike him, so he should be the one to make her change her mind. Freya frowned. However, she stepped away from the door and invited Ryan in. "We can speak in the other living room. I need to talk to you too." "Mom-"


    "Don''t interfere, Lora," Freya said firmly.


    "I just wanted to say that it''ste, you can talk tomorrow-"


    "By then it would be toote... I''m afraid you would have already moved in with him. If I have to do something, I have to do it now!" Freya proimed. Lora gave Ryan a worried look. However, Ryan just smiled and mouthed, "Don''t worry."


    Freya led Ryan to the other living room. She took a seat and nced at him coldly.


    "So, you feel you didn''t hurt my daughter enough and you''ve now returned to finish herpletely?" Freya used.


    Ryan was taken aback by that question. He cleared his throat and replied, "No... I have no intention to hurt her again-"


    "Oh but we don''t know that, do we? Ryan Kingsley, I''ve always known that my daughter never stopped loving you... but do you really love her?"


    Ryan''s eyes widened. Lora never stopped loving him? She seemed to hate him very much before.


    "Surprised? You must be asking yourself why she chased you away if she still loved you?" Freya asked. "That''s because she was afraid of getting hurt again. ver called her out on her love for you because knew she was smart and would stay away from you... so, tell me. What did you say to make my daughter ept to take you back after everything?"


    Ryan gulped, his stomach knotting with nerves. He could tell that Freya didn''t really like him for her daughter.


    He couldn''t me her though. Ryan knew he wasn''t the husband Lora deserved in the past. He didn''t treat her well and took her love for granted. This will always be his regret and he will feel guilty for the rest of his life. However, he wasn''t going to give up.


    "I showed her my heart, Mrs Davis. I


    know I''m yet to prove to you that I will be the best husband to her... but I promise, I''ll never hurt her again Please trust me and give me a chance," Ryan pleaded. "I can sign a contract with you right


    ever hurt her, you can now. If I


    get all my


    wealth."


    "I don''t need your wealth, Ryan. What I want is my daughter''s never-ending happiness. I''ll never approve of your rtionship or your marriage that was done in secret My daughter deserves the best. I


    lost her once, and now, I''m making it up to her by making sure she''s


    always happy," Freya stated. N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    "That is what I want as well. I want to love her... to make her happy and to give her everything that she''s ever desired in this world," Ryan replied. "I really love Lora, Mrs Davis. With all my heart and my soul. And I''ll protect her with my life this time." Freya sighed. She could tell that Ryan was serious but she was hesitant about taking the risk.


    What if something went wrong and Lora got hurt again? She didn''t want to see her daughter lose herself to depression again.


    Ryan saw that Freya wasn''t convinced. So, he suggested, "How about you give me a trial period? Let''s say you give me a chance to prove myself for thirty days... if Lora is happy with me, then you''ll give us your blessing. What do you say?"

 Chapter 99~ Leaked

    "A trial period?" Freya Davis asked with a raised eyebrow.


    Ryan nodded and replied, "Yes, Ma''am. I know nothing I say right now will make you change your mind about me. So, I''ll show you that I''ll make your daughter the happiest woman in the world." "And you only need thirty days to do that?" Freya questioned. "What if you''re just pretending in that thirty days?"


    "I can never pretend with Lora... I love her. I may have realised toote that she was very important to me, but I''ll make it up to her for the rest of her life," Ryan proimed.


    Freya sighed, her brows creasing. She looked at Ryan and studied him intently before her gaze softened ever so slightly.


    "I see," she remarked. "Since you''re offering thirty days to prove that you''re worthy of my daughter, I''ll give you a chance."


    Ryan''s eyes lit up but before he could respond, Freya added, "But... If you fail to make Lora happy or if you hurt her again, I want you to leave her alone forever and never bother her again."


    Ryan gulped, his heart pounding. He nodded confidently and said, "I''ll make sure she''s happier than ever... I''ll never leave her alone, so I have no choice but to do all I can to put a smile on her beautiful face." Freya got to her feet but before she could leave, she nced at Ryan and uttered, "I''ll be watching you."


    When Ryan went back to the main living room, he found Lora anxiously waiting for him.


    She nced at him and asked, "What did she say?"


    "It''s a secret," Ryan replied and Lora arched an eyebrow.


    "Seriously?" Lora remarked.


    "Yes... it''s a secret. But for now, she''s given me a chance, so I have to make the best of it," Ryan said.


    Lora squinted her eyes at Ryan. However, since he didn''t want to disclose what he had talked about with her mother, she had no choice but to change the subject.


    "Ok, Mr Kingsley, you should head home now. I have to finish up a VIP client''s design tonight," she responded.


    "Any chance I can see the kids before I go?" Ryan requested. "I know they are sleeping by now but since I''m now your boyfriend and husband, I need to at least give them kisses." "You''re my boyfriend and husband?" Lora asked, arching an eyebrow.


    Ryan smirked and said, "Of course. We are starting over, aren''t we? With that being said, will you go out with me tomorrow?"


    Lora''s lips twitched before curling into a smile. She asked again, "Is Mr Kingsley asking me out on a date?"


    "Yes, I am," Ryan replied firmly. He looked into Lora''s eyes and said, "Go on a date with me, Lora."


    Lora blushed at the intensity of Ryan''s gaze. She bit her lower lip, pretending to be thinking about it before she replied, "I will."


    The next day, Ryan arrived at the Davis mansion to pick Lora and the kids up.


    E rushed to hug his legs. Looking up at him, she asked, "Daddy, Mommy keeps smiling, has she forgiven you?"


    Ryan smiled and picked E up before twirling her around in the air. The little girl giggled excitedly, her sweetughter echoing in the area.


    "Yes, your Mommy has forgiven me," Ryan replied, a huge grin on his face.


    "So, when is the wedding?" E asked and Ryan let out a low chuckle.


    "I''ll propose to your Mommy very soon but let''s keep this as our little secret, ok?" Ryan remarked.


    E nodded and made a zipping gesture over her mouth with her fingers.


    "What are you two talking about?"


    Lora''s voice grabbed Ryan and E''s attention. She came out of the


    mansion with Ethan who frowned when he


    The saw the mischievous smile on his sister''s face.


    ''What are E and Daddy up to?'' He mused.


    "Nothing. We were waiting for you, Mommy," E replied innocently and Lora nodded.


    "I''m sorry, I forgot something," she replied.


    When the kids were dropped at school, Ethan grabbed his sister''s backpack to stop her and remarked, "Spill. What are you and Daddy hiding?"


    E giggled. She looked at her brother and answered, "Mommy forgave Daddy and Daddy wants to propose to her."


    "Really?" Ethan asked, a rare trace of excitement shing through his eyes.


    "Yes!" E replied. "We should help him surprise Mommy."N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    Ethan nodded. "You''re right. We can ask Big Grandpa for help and make Mommy''s day when Daddy proposes."


    Meanwhile, after Ryan left Lora at thepany, she went straight to the conference room since one of the board members had called for an emergency meeting. When she found out that it was Craig Hendrix, Lora was no longer surprised.


    The old man was really bitter that his son didn''t get the CEO position.


    "May I know why you''re calling for an emergency meeting again?" Lora askedzily.


    Craig inteced his fingers and ced them on the table before saying, "It hase to our attention that one of our VIP''s customised design has been leaked to a a rivalpany. Miss Davis, how are you going to exin that?"


    Lora''s eyebrows creased, confusion creeping into her. She nced at Craig and asked, "Why should I give you an exnation? Am I the one who leaked the design?"


    "Because you''re the one handling the


    client''s design, Miss Davis. A VIP


    client requested a customised design for her ne, however, an enemypany has somehow gotten their hands on it and released


    it first. If the VIP client decides to sue thepany, who will take the fall for it? You were responsible for the design, Miss Davis," Craig remarked.


    One of the other shareholders chipped in. "Miss Davis, I think there''s only one thing left to do to please the VIP client. We can''t afford to be sued at the moment."


    Lora chuckled darkly. These old men always yed the same tricks. It was bing boring.


    She nced at all of them before asking, "And what must I do to please the client?"


    Craig cleared is throat and suggested, "You should give up your position and give it to Lewis. He will handle this."

 Chapter 100~ The VIP client.

    "I second that. Lewis Hendrix would lead thepany better."


    "There''s been one issue after another ever since Miss Davis took over the position. I think it''s sufficient to say that she''s failed to run thepany."


    "That''s right. We don''t have funds to use onwsuits. Who''s going to fix this mess? Our reputation will go down the drain."


    The shareholders kept airing their views after Craig''s statement. Seated on one of the chairs around the long table, Lewis had a victorious smirk on his face as he watched the scene unfold.


    It was exactly as he had nned. This time, not even Jack Davis would be able to stop his daughter from being fired.


    Thepany''s reputation was going to be destroyed once everything blew up and Lora would have no way out of this. Ruining thepany''s image was enough for the board members to fire Lora Davis without waiting for the chairman''s decision. Secretly taking out his phone, Lewis sent out a message.


    When he received a response, he smirked before clearing his throat and saying, "Miss Davis, I know you wouldn''t want to sabotage your father''spany, so it must be someone close to you who might have leaked the design. However, that still means that you''re responsible for the damage this will cause to thepany. I''ve already talked to the VIP client and she''s willing to only deal with the person responsible for leaking her customised design and leave thepany alone."


    "Oh really? That''s great. It only makes sense that the person responsible should be dealt with instead of implicating thepany," Lora repliedzily.


    Lewis had a cruel smirk on his face as he thought, ''You just dug your own grave, Lora Davis.''


    "So, how should the one responsible be dealt with?" Lewis asked.


    "Whatever the client decides. They can be fired or taken to the police for theft and leaking ofpany secrets," Lora proimed.


    "Are you aware that you''re the one who would have to take responsibility, Miss Davis? I think stepping down from your position is enough-"


    "No. Whoever is responsible for this should be made an example of. If it''s confirmed that it''s from my end, I''ll turn myself in. However, if we find the real culprit, I expect the same from them," Lora remarked confidently.


    "How did the confidential design end up with a rivalpany, Miss Davis? We are still waiting for your exnation," Craig questioned. "Could it be you have a mole by your side? Your assistant perhaps?"


    Lora''s eyes shed with anger. She red at Craig and hissed, "Leave my assistant out of your schemes, Mr Hendrix. You can do what you want to me but don''t hurt my people, or else..."


    "Huh, I see. You have no way to exin yourself. We will take it that you did leak thepany secrets to a rivalpany. With that being said, the reason for this meeting is to fire you. So, either you step down willingly, or we force you to." The other shareholders agreed with the man.


    "That''s right. Your time is up, Miss Davis. We''ve given you enough chances. Leave thepany before you''re fired by the board."Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    Silence fell upon the ce, however, Lora remained calm and collected. Lewis sneered when he saw her expression, thinking she couldn''t pretend to be confident for long.


    "The VIP client is here. It''s toote,


    Miss Davis, You will be forced to leave now," Lewis remarked with an annoying smirk on his lips. "It''s so embarrassing for the daughter of


    the chairman to be thrown out of the


    He had heard that the client was from a very powerful family. If the Davis & Co. Company offended such a person, not even Jack Davis would support his daughter. So, Lora was done for.


    Now that thepany''s reputation was at stake, Lora would have no choice but to protect her family''spany and step down from the CEO''s position.


    Soon, his dreams woulde true and he would finally be the new CEO.


    At the same time, Lora simply smiled and folded her arms across her chest before saying, "I would like to see how I''ll be forced to leave."


    The doors to the conference room opened and one beautiful woman with dark hair and gray eyes walked in. She was followed by a team of five men dressed in ck tailored suits.


    Lewis got to his feet and


    approached the door. He eagerly


    said, "I''m so sorry you had toe all the way here for this. We are


    sorry for this inconvenience. Ou


    CEO is new and has no proper management skills. Perhaps she didn''t secure the design well and hence, it got into the wrong hands. I hear it was meant to represent your family?"


    The woman nced at Lewis and nodded, saying, "That''s right... I wanted to have a ne that could make me feel like my family is with me wherever I go. I can''t believe anotherpany stole the design and mass-produced it. That''s an insult."


    Lewis smiled when he saw how angry the woman was.


    He cleared his throat and said, "It''s a shame, Ma''am. As apany, we deeply apologise for the inconvenience caused. Our CEO has been asked to resign, so, awsuit wouldn''t be necessary." The woman arched an eyebrow. Lewis blocked her view so she couldn''t see who else was in the room.


    She asked, "Where''s your CEO?"


    Lewis smirked, his heart jumping in excitement. The VIP would demand that Lora resign from her position and everything would finally be his!


    He chuckled internally and stepped away before replying, "There she is-"


    "Sister-inw!"


    Before anyone could tell what was happening, the gorgeous woman rushed towards the head of the table and hugged Lora.


    "Omg! You look so cool sitting here as the CEO, sis-inw. So badass," the woman said.


    "What''s going on here?" Lewis asked, a sinking feeling settling into his stomach. "W-who are you?"


    Come to think of it, this was the woman he had seen with Ryan Kingsley the other day. Could she be...?


    "Oh, me? I''m Diane Kingsley, from the Kingsley Group and I''m the VIP client," Diane replied. "So, what did you say about my sister-inw?"

 Chapter 101~ A gift

    "Diane Kingsley? Is she Ryan Kingsley''s sister? Did she just call Miss Davis her sister-inw?" Someone whispered.


    "I did hear of the scandal that Ryan was once married to Miss Davis. Have they made up?"


    "Does that mean the Kingsley group will be in alliance with the Davis & Co. Company? This is good for us!"


    "Wait!" Craig yelled. "This isn''t the matter we are here to discuss. Miss Davis ruined thepany''s reputation and she has to go to prevent the VIP client from suing us."


    "Why would I sue my sister-inw''spany? Are you crazy, old man?" Diane said. She then turned to look at Lora before whispering, "Ryan told me you made up. Congrats! I''m so happy to see you two together again." Lora smiled and blushed. "I see he couldn''t wait to tell the world, huh?"


    "He''s so happy, you have no idea," Diane whispered before turning her gaze to the rest of the room.


    "I came here today, not to watch my sister-inw get bullied, but to deal with the bastard who stole my customised design," she added.


    Gasps echoed around the conference room.


    "Do you already know who the culprit is?" Someone asked.


    "Of course!" Diane replied firmly.


    "That''s impossible! There''s no way you would find out who it was. There''s no evidence!" Lewis hissed.


    Diane red at Lewis when he spoke. She remarked, "It''s you again. When I saw you almost attack Lora the other day, I knew you were going to be a problem. Thank goodness my brother learnt a lesson and is now one step ahead." "What do you mean?" Lewis questioned, his brows furrowing.


    "What? Scared?" Diane sneered.


    Lewis shifted in his stance and cleared his throat. He replied, "Why would I be scared?"


    Diane suddenly chuckled darkly. Gone was her bubbly nature, now reced by a cold look.


    "How dare you steal my sister-inw''s work... my design that meant a lot to me and gave it to another fool who nned to mass-produce it... you thought you were smart... but too bad you''re going to jail now," Diane said sternly. "What? I can''t go to jail. What proof do you have that I stole the design?" Lewis asked.


    Diane nced at one of the men who she came with and nodded.


    The man stepped forward and said, "Good morning. My name is Jordan Wright. I''m part of the Kingsley Group''s legal team and I''m here to represent Miss Kingsley. We have evidence of Mr Hendrix meeting one of the designers at Hex & Co. to sell the design." "That''s not true! I didn''t meet anyone!" Lewis yelled.


    Jordan set up a projector and yed a video. Sure enough, Lewis was seen meeting a designer from the rivalpany.


    He was seen giving the man a file before shaking his hand, signalling a deal made.


    "That can''t prove anything!" Lewis objected. "You can''t use me based on an audio-less video!"


    "We got a statement from the man you talked to. He has already confessed to the crime. Mr Hendrix, the police will be here to arrest you soon," Jordan Wright stated.


    "What? This is uneptable! Lora Davis, you''re trying to pin your mistake on my son! You can''t use your power to do things like this!" Craig yelled.


    Lora arched an eyebrow and remarked, "Oh, so it''s ok for you and your son to step on others but when tables change, it''s suddenly wrong? How hypocritical!"


    The shareholders kept quiet as they watched the scene. They had been supporting Lewis because Craig had influence, but looking at the turn of events, they didn''t dare stand up for him.


    "Miss Davis, are you sure you want to offend me and my family? I''m the biggest investor in thispany. If you have my son arrested, I''m going to withdraw my funding-" "I''ll dly rece you," Diane''s voice suddenly echoed in the room. "I wouldn''t mind being a shareholder in my sister-inw''spany if it means getting rid of scams like you." She nced at anotherwyer who stepped forward with documents.


    "This is evidence of Mr Hendrix''s embezzlement of funds when he was in charge of thepany."


    The otherwyer stepped forward and added, "There''s also evidence of Mr Lewis and Mr Craig sabotaging thepany by trying to steal thepany''s shipment a few weeks ago." "What? You''re going to press charges for that? Everyone here was in on it-"


    "Mr Hendrix, please watch what you say. Youmitted those crimes alone. Are you trying to shirk responsibility?" One of the shareholders quickly said.


    "You-" Craig''s eyes shed with anger. The board members had abandoned him at the first sign of trouble!


    "Officers!" Jordan Wright called out and a few policemen walked into the room and arrested Craig and his son.


    As they were dragging them away, Lewis yelled, "I still destroyed thepany''s reputation. After the news of the leak goes viral, no one will trust you anymore!"


    "Oh... that won''t happen. You see,Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    Hex & Co. didn''t dare release my design as theirs... they released a different type of design. So, Mr. Hendrix, you lost," Diane responded and Lewis'' eyes rounded in shock.


    "No..." He mumbled, shaking his head. "No, No! It can''t be! I can''t lose like this-"


    His voice became distant as he and his father were dragged away in handcuffs.


    A little whileter, Lora took Diane to her office and asked, "How did you know that Lewis had stolen the design?"


    Diane smirked and said, "Well, my brother instructed his men to watch Lewis Hendrix after that incident the other day. When he realised what they wanted to do, he set up a trap for him."


    Lora felt warm inside. She didn''t know Ryan was secretly looking out for her.


    "Are you really buying Craig''s shares?" Lora asked.


    Diane nodded and said, "Yes, I am. It''s high time I started investing too..."


    "Thank you for today..." Lora remarked, her heart feeling full.


    When Diane left, Lora received a call from Ryan.


    "Did you like my gift?" Ryan''s deep voice echoed through the phone.


    "Yes, I did. Getting rid of the Hendrixs has saved us a lot of trouble... thank you, Ryan," Lora answered.


    "When are you going to call me baby, honey, or darling... I don''t want to be just Ryan to you," Ryan said on the phone.


    Lora blushed. She wasn''t used to using pet names. Biting her lower lip, she replied, "We shall see what the future holds."


    "I see... then I must work harder to earn myself a sweet name," Ryan stated. "I''ll pick you up after work for our date night... be ready to get eaten."

 Chapter 102~ Ready for him

    "What? Ryan told you to be ready to get eaten?" Bianca eximed and Lora covered her mouth with her palm, looking around to make sure no one had heard her. "Sshh, you don''t have to announce it to the whole world," Lora replied, her cheeks flushing pink.


    It was lunchtime and Lora met her best friend, Bianca Jones, for lunch and told her about Ryan''s words.


    Bianca whistled and replied, "You''re so lucky, my friend."


    "Why? Because I''m going on a date?" Lora asked, her eyebrows creasing.


    "No, silly," Bianca rolled her eyes. "Do you know what he means by, be ready to get eaten?"


    When Lora shook her head, Bianca added, "It means he''s going to eat you down there."


    Lora gasped, her eyes widening. An image shed through her mind and her face flushed again. Looking at her friend, she asked, "What? Why would he do that?"


    "It''s part of lovemaking, my friend," Bianca said. She leaned over and whispered, "We need to visit a spa before lunch hour ends to... you know... make sure it''s smooth and ready for him."


    "Bee," Lora blushed, looking around to make sure no one had heard her friend again. "Is that necessary?"


    "Of course! Give him a little surprise!" Bianca replied eagerly. "Come, I know a ce."


    Although Lora was mortified, she let Bianca drag her away from the restaurant. They walked into a beauty spa and when they walked to the reception, Bianca took out her card and said, "This is my best friend and she just made up with her husband. She wants to make him happy tonight, so... do your best."


    "Bee!" Lora protested but Bianca just wriggled her eyebrows at her.


    When they were done at the spa, Bianca winked at Lora and said, "Now, once Ryan tastes you like that, he will be addicted and want to do it every day."


    "Every day?" Lora''s eyes widened into saucers.


    "Oh, don''t make that face. You will be addicted too... I''ve heard once you try it, you can never stop craving it," Bianca responded.


    Lora frowned. "Have you experienced it before?"


    Biancaughed and replied, "No, I haven''t. But I read steamy books."


    "So you''ve never tried it but you think I will like it?" Lora asked, frowning.N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    "Of course, you will! After tonight, I''m sure you will testify! They say it''s another kind of heaven!" Bianca eximed and Lora giggled.


    A little whileter, Lora''s phone buzzed with a message from Ryan that read,


    [I''m outside, baby.]


    She blushed, her heart pounding erratically in her chest, apanied by a flutter of butterflies in her stomach. Bianca kept teasing her about tonight and now, she couldn''t stop thinking about the date. Would Ryan really eat her out?


    Lora''s core clenched at the thought.


    When she stepped out of her office, she gasped when she saw a tall man in a sharp suit waiting just outside her door.


    The man held a single red rose which he extended toward Lora with a polite smile on his face.


    "Who are you-"


    "This is for being an exceptional woman, Mrs Kingsley," the man said, handing Lora the rose.


    Lora blinked, her heart racing at the man''s words. Was this Ryan''s surprise for her?


    The man left and disappeared down the hallway. Lora brought the rose to her nose and took a whiff.


    It smelled so good.


    She continued down the hallway, approaching the elevator. However, as she rounded the corner, another man in a suit was standing by the elevator doors, holding another rose. When he saw Lora, he smiled and gave it to her.


    "This is for being a wonderful mother, Mrs Kingsley," he said as Lora epted the rose, a smile ying on her lips.


    The man bowed and stepped away for Lora to enter the elevator.


    ''Am I going to see Ryan next?'' She mused, taking big whiffs of the roses. This was the sweetest thing that anyone had ever done for her... or maybe it was sweet because it came from the man she loved?


    When the elevator doors opened to the ground floor, Lora found a queue of men holding roses and her heart skipped a beat. With each step she took a man gave her a rose and stepped away.


    This continued until she walked out of the office building, her hands now full of roses.


    Lora''s breath caught in her throat when she saw the man waiting for her outside. Ryan. Her man.


    He stood there, holding thest rose, looking breathtaking in a tailormade all-ck suit. A soft smile graced his face as he watched Lora approach.


    At the same time, Lora''s heart fluttered. A few secondster, she was standing right in front of him, looking into his warm, captivating eyes.


    He extended the rose toward Lora and remarked, "This is for the most beautiful woman in the world. My Queen and the mother of my children."


    Lora epted the rose, her cheeks flushing with happiness. She was unable to hold back her smile as she asked, "Did you n to surprise me? I''m so touched."


    Ryan smirked and replied, "Yes...!


    did. I had to outdo a certain someone who used to bring you flowers every day. I''m the only one who can bring you flowers and I''ll make sure I do it better."


    Lora chuckled, the fragrance of the roses wafting into her nostrils. She looked into Ryan''s eyes and replied, "These are lovely... thank you."


    Ryan wrapped his arm around Lora''s waist and pulled her close before saying, "Anything for my baby."


    Leaning over, he brushed a soft kiss against Lora''s forehead and added, "I love to see that beautiful smile on your face."


    Lora blushed, her heart swelling with love.


    "So, what have you nned for us tonight?" Lora asked.


    "It''s a surprise," Ryan replied. "Tonight, I want to do something that you had wanted to do with me in the past."

 Chapter 103~ An action movie

    "A movie date?" Lora asked when she looked at the theater in front of them.


    "Yes... it''s during the week and it''s not crowded, so we can watch a movie. I would have wanted to book the whole ce but I thought you would love to have a full experience," Ryan replied, smiling. Lora nced at him and said, "Since when are you into movies? You used to say they bore you."


    Ryan chuckled awkwardly and replied, "I''m still not into movies but for you, I can watch a thousand movies if it means it would make you happy."


    Lora smiled faintly. She recalled how she used to arrange for movie date nights, however, Ryan wasn''t into that in the past.


    In fact, they never went on dates or hang out together. However, it was different this time. Ryan was making the effort and she appreciated it.


    "So, what are we watching?" Lora asked as they walked towards the counter to stand in line just like everyone else.


    Ryan nced at the screen and said, "Well, I don''t know what you like. We can watch a romantic movie-"


    "No, I''m into action movies," Lora remarked.


    "Really?" Ryan replied. "I never knew that but I''m d I do now."


    They chose a thrilling action movie before getting 3D sses.


    Ryan bought popcorn and some slushie drinks before leading Lora into the dimly lit theater.


    Lora could see that Ryan was somewhat lost. She nced at him and whispered, "You''ve never been to a movie theater before?"


    "I didn''t have to since there''s one at home," Ryan replied, feeling ufortable when he felt like all eyes were on them.


    "That''s different... going to a theater is more fun," Lora remarked.


    Seeing the sparkle in Lora''s eyes, Ryan knew he had made the right choice. He nodded and said, "Let''s find our seats."


    A little whileter, the couple was settled into the plush leather seats of the theater. Ryan bnced the tray of popcorn on hisp, while Lora rested her head on his shoulder.N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    Soon, the screen lit up and the movie started soon after.


    Lora had a huge grin on her face as she raised her head to nce at the screen. She looked so excited like a child who had just been given her favorite candy.


    The movie had intense scenes of gun fights, martial arts and explosions. Lora''s heart couldn''t stop racing as she watched. When debris seemed to be flying towards her face, she gasped and held Ryan''s shirt tightly, the 3D effects giving her a vivid experience. "Are you ok, baby?" Ryan asked worriedly, recalling that Lora had trauma with explosions.


    "Of course!" Lora whispered. "This is so cool! I haven''t watched an action movie in six years! Now I can!"


    Ryan nced at Lora, the smile on her face filling his heart with warmth. She was the most beautiful creature he had ever seen.


    How could he get so lucky?


    Lora felt a heated gaze on her and turned to nce at Ryan, only to find him watching her.


    She frowned and said, "You''re not even watching."


    "I''m watching you... I could look at you all night and still wonder how God was able to make you so remarkably. You''re beautiful, baby," Ryan whispered and Lora blushed profusely.


    They continued to watch the movie and when it was done, they walked out of the theater, still wearing their 3D sses like a pair of kids.


    Ryan coiled his arm around Lora''s waist and remarked, "This was fun... we should do this often."


    "I thought you prefer financial investment books and movies are boring for you," Lora stated.


    "Well, if I watched a movie alone, I would find it boring. However, everything I do with you is so interesting," Ryan uttered.


    "I loved it too... it felt good watching the movie with you," Lora responded. "So, what''s next?"


    "Dinner at our penthouse," Ryan proimed.


    Lora arched an eyebrow and said, "Don''t tell me you''re cooking. I can still see images of the burnt eggs you made."


    Ryan chuckled. "No... the chef will do


    the cooking. I would have taken you to a nice restaurant but remember, I promised that you would get eaten tonight... so, the penthouse is a better venue."  en


    Lora''s cheeks flushed pink, her stomach fluttering with butterflies.


    It didn''t take long for Lora and Ryan to arrive at the penthouse. When they walked in, Lora gasped, her breath catching in her throat.


    The ce was dimly lit with fairytale


    lights hanging over the ceiling. Scented candles were ced all around the apartment, providing the ce with a fragrance that soothed one''s soul.  en


    A table for two was set up in the living room.


    "I didn''t know it was a candlelight dinner," Lora uttered, arching an eyebrow. However, her heart was racing at a thousand miles per minute.


    "I hope you like it," Ryan replied. He ced his hand on the small of Lora''s back and led her to the table before helping her take a seat.


    He walked over to the other chair and took a seat before saying, "Let''s eat. I''m sure you''re starving."


    Although they were in the penthouse, the dim lighting and soft background music gave the ce a romantic ambience.


    Lora felt like she was a lead character in a fairytale movie.


    She felt so special.


    At the same time, Ryan kept stealing nces at Lora. His heart leapt with joy when he saw the smile on her face.


    "So, how was our first date?" Ryan asked as they ate.


    "It was... lovely. Thank you, Ryan. I had a good time," Lora replied, her heart swelling with love.


    They continued to chat about this and that as they ate their food. When they were done, Ryan got to his feet and approached Lora.


    He then got down on his knees and asked, "How was the food?"


    "It was good," Lora replied, looking down at him.


    "And the dessert?" Ryan asked again with an arched eyebrow.


    "It was delicious," Lora answered. She frowned and said, "Although I didn''t see you eat any dessert..."


    "That''s because..." Ryan trailed in his deep husky voice. He slid his hand between Lora''s thighs and dered, "I''m having you for dessert."

 Chapter 104~ Interrupted

    Lora was dressed in a ck and white pencil dress that day, so it was easy for Ryan to have ess to her core. When he slid his hand under her dress and up her thigh, Lora trembled as tingles coursed through her.


    She bit her lower lip and involuntarily mped her legs shut, trapping Ryan''s naughty hand between her thighs. "Don''t hide from me," Ryan said in a low, husky voice before slipping his hand out and carrying Lora bridal style.


    He ced her on a reclining leather couch and got down on his knees, settling between her legs.


    Lora blushed when Ryan slid his hands under her dress and began to take off her panties.


    As he did this, Ryan nced up at Lora, smirking when he saw her blushing.


    "C-Can we turn off the lights?" Lora requested, her heart pounding hard in her chest.


    Touching her core was one thing but having Ryan''s face on it was another. She was so nervous.


    Ryan let out a low chuckle just as he slid down Lora''s pantiespletely.


    "I want to see all of you, baby," he stated. "Now, spread those legs wide for me."


    Lora blushed again but she slowly opened her legs wider. When Ryan looked down at her core, he arched an eyebrow and remarked, "Someone came prepared." "Ryan-" Lora tried to close her legs but Ryan held them in ce.


    "I love it..." he said and before Lora could tell what was happening, Ryan lowered his head and buried his face between Lora''s thighs.


    Lora''s eyes widened in shock at the sudden intrusion. However, as soon as she felt Ryan''s tongue on her clit, her eyes rolled to the back of her head.


    The pleasure was out of this world.


    Ryan took his time, licking her slowly... using his tongue to trace her pink lips, going down to her tunnel of pleasure before thrusting his tongue into her warm opening. Lora revelled in the way his tongue went in and out of her so tantalisingly slowly.


    As Ryan tongue-fucked her, he used his thumb to work on her pleasure nub, rubbing it in circr motions with just enough pressure to send jolts of electricity throughout her body. "Oh, Ryan," Lora couldn''t help but moan, her mind, heart, body and soul in awe at the intense pleasure rippling through her.


    She twisted her hand in Ryan''s hair, yanking it to push his head deeper in between her legs.


    "Oh, yes!" She cried out when Ryan sped up his movements, thrusting his tongue in and out of her faster and harder at every second.


    He explored every part of her love cave that his tongue could reach, his thumb still stimting her clit with harder circr movements.


    Lora writhed under Ryan, her mouth forming an O shape as she moaned in ecstasy at Ryan''s ministrations.


    Ryan took his tongue out of Lora''s core and before she could protest, she felt him suck on her clit.


    "Oh, yes, Ryan, that''s it!" Lora moaned, her eyes rolling to the back of her head over and over again as intense pleasure sizzled throughout her veins.


    She arched her back and rode Ryan''s face as he flicked her bean with his tongue, oh so skilfully.


    "Ryan, baby, I''m cumming!" Lora cried out, rolling her hips faster as she rode Ryan''s face.


    Ryan''s heart leapt with joy when he heard Lora call him baby. He held her legs and ate her out with gusto.


    "You taste so good, baby," Ryan said before continuing to suck Lora''s clit like it was the world''s most delicious dessert.


    "Baby, oh yes... that feels so good!" Lora cried out, tingles ring through her body.


    Ryan flicked her bean faster with his tongue and Lora soon fell over the edge. Her body shuddered and a scream of pleasure tore through her throat as an orgasm rushed through her, wave after wave.


    "Oh, Ryan," Lora moaned, her body feeling like it was floating on cloud nine at the euphoric experience.Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    Ryan continued to run his tongue along Lora''s core until she rode out her orgasm. Hepped up all of her juices, licking her clean.


    When he was done, he cupped the back of Lora''s neck before bringing her down for an explosive kiss.


    Sparks exploded between them and Lora wrapped her arms around Ryan''s neck, kissing him back with equal passion and intensity.


    She could taste herself on Ryan''s tongue and it did things to her... So this was how it felt like to be wanted... to be craved and desired. Lora felt like she was in her own kind of paradise and she didn''t want it to end.


    The emotions swirling between them... the pleasure... it was all so overwhelming and intense.


    Things were getting heated and Lora began to remove Ryan''s belt, while he unzipped her dress.


    They continued to kiss like tomorrow would nevere, their heads moving from side to side, as their breathing became heavy.


    Time seemed to stop as they drowned in each other''s presence. Every kiss and every touch felt like heaven on earth.


    Just as Ryan was about to climb on top of Lora, Lora''s phone rang.


    When she tried to pull back from the kiss, Ryan protested and held her tighter.


    "No, don''t pick up," he murmured and mmed his lips on hers, kissing her harder than before.


    Lora''s core clenched, desire rushing through her. However, she couldn''t ignore that particr ringtone.


    "It''s... Mmmmm... the... kids," she said in between kisses.


    Ryan froze and let up, his eyes darkened with lust as he nced at Lora. He replied, "Then you should pick up the call."


    They quickly got up and Lora rushed to get her phone before answering it.


    "Hello, Ethan, Hello E," Lora uttered, trying to hide her heavy breaths.


    She put the phone on loudspeaker as Ryan came to stand behind her, wrapping his arms around her waist.


    "Hello, Mommy. Why are you not back yet? Are you and Daddy having fun without us?" E asked on the phone causing Lora to almost choke.


    "No, we are not having fun. I''ll be home soon," Lora replied but her face was flushed pink.


    "Ok... can Daddye too? We want to see him before we go to bed," E requested.


    "Ok, princess. I''ll see you soon," Ryan replied.


    When Lora cut the call, she pulled away from Ryan and nced at him before they both burst out intoughter.


    Ryan chuckled and said, "I guess this is how parenthood is."


    "Yes, it''s interesting, isn''t it?" Lora


    asked. "You became a father overnight, you will have to get


    to being interrupted most of Sed


    time."


    Ryan nodded and replied, "It is interesting... and I''m proud to be a father, don''t mind being interrupted by little humans who look like me and you."

 Chapter 105~ Child support

    "Congrattions on getting rid of Lewis Hendrix, ma''am. Now you can run thepany without any obstacles," Hannah Collins, Lora''s assistant, said. Lora smiled.


    Although Lewis and Craig were released on bail for them to await trial, it was a relief not to have them in thepany. Otherwise, they could have caused the downfall of Davis & Co. "That''s right... is Miss Kingsley''s design ready for production?" Lora asked.


    "Yes, it is. I''ll monitor the project closely to make sure no one tries to steal it again. But no one would dare to now that Lewis is paying for his actions," Hannah replied. "Mr Kingsley really loves you, ma''am. He sorted everything out and you didn''t even have to lift a finger." Lora smiled at the thought of Ryan. Indeed, Ryan had been very nice to her.


    He put her first and always prioritised her safety and happiness.


    With him, she felt secure.


    When he was near, she felt at ease as though she was home.


    "Arrange a special gift to give to Diane Kingsley as an apology for what almost happened to her design. Perhaps we can give her a free ne or some diamond earrings from our best collection," Lora instructed.


    Hannah typed the instructions on her tablet and replied, "I''ll work on it, ma''am."


    After Hannah left, Lora''s phone chimed and a message popped up on her screen.


    When she opened the message, her eyes almost popped out of their sockets.


    She had just received an amount of four billion dors from an unknown ount.


    Furrowing her eyebrows, Lora was about to call the bank when she received a call from Ryan.


    "Hey, Ryan..."


    "Hey, baby. Have you received the money?" Ryan responded on the phone.


    Lora narrowed her eyes when she realised the money was from Ryan. She frowned and questioned, "Why did you send me all that money?"


    "It''s child support. Since you and the kids are not staying with me yet, I have to support them as their father," Ryan replied.


    "Seriously?" Lora remarked. "Who gives four billion dors for child support?"


    "That''s what our children deserve. Their father is a billionaire after all..." Ryan replied in his deep voice. "In fact, I wouldn''t mind giving you my whole ie. But I know you wouldn''t agree, so..."


    Lora sighed and responded, "I''ll let this pass since it''s for the kids but don''t send so much money next time."


    "There won''t be a next time, because soon we''ll move into our own home and we will take care of the kids together as husband and wife," Ryan said.


    Lora blushed, biting her lower lip.


    They didn''t want to rush things because they wanted to give Freya time to ept their rtionship. However, Lora still couldn''t wait to live with Ryan again since things were different this time- their love was mutual.


    It felt good to love someone.... and to know that special someone loved you back.


    They chatted a bit about this and that before Ryan stated, "Grandpa wants the children to visit the Kingsley mansion and although I''m not a fan of Dad right now, I think he has to meet the children. He doesn''t know he''s a grandfather yet."


    Lora nodded and replied, "Yes, no problem. I''lle with them over the weekend. Although, I hope they will be safe from your stepmother and Isabe."


    The two women had always mocked and bullied Lora six years ago and Lora didn''t trust them to be around her children.


    "Don''t worry, I won''t let anyone hurt you or our kids," Ryan promised.


    ...


    "Daddy, are we going to meet your Daddy?" E asked while seated in the backseat of the car.


    Ryan nodded and replied, "Yes, you''re going to meet your grandfather."


    "So, does it mean he''s our small grandpa? Since we have a big grandpa?"


    Ryan smiled in amusement and said, "Yes, he is your small grandpa."


    "Will he like us?" Ethan asked, his voice calmer than his sister''s.


    Ryan nced at his son and ruffled his hair before saying, "Of course he will like you. You''re his first grandchildren." Lora was quiet as she stared out of the window. Ryan nced at her and asked, "Is everything alright, baby?" Lora turned to look at Ryan and smiled before replying, "I''m fine, don''t worry."


    She didn''t want to worry him, but the Kingsley mansion was not a ce she liked to visit. Ryan''s stepmother and sister always pretended to be nice infront of him, however, they were not very weing to bora.


    She had a bad experience with them in the past.


    Ryan seemed to have read her mind. He remarked, "We are only here to see Dad, Grandpa and Diane. Don''t worry about anyone else."


    Meanwhile, Miles Kingsley was


    standing outside of the mansion


    with Diane and Charles. He frowned and looked at his father before


    asking, Who are the important guests that we have to receive, father? Howe I didn''t know about this?"


    Charles cleared his throat and replied, "They will be here soon... I didn''t tell you because it''s not my ce to tell you. Why are you not close with your son? You could have


    been the first person to know..."


    "The first person to know what?" Miles asked, frowning in


    confusion.


    "You will know in a few minutes," Charles replied and then his eyes lit up when he saw the convoy of cars driving up the driveway. "Here they are."N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    Miles turned to look at the convoy of cars and his eyebrows furrowed as he asked, "Ryan is the special guest?"


    Charles rolled his eyes and Diane stifled a giggle.


    "Dad, just wait and see. It''s a surprise," Diane remarked, looking at her father.


    When their eyes met, sadness crept into Diane''s heart. She used to be close with her father, however, ever since Celeste came into the picture, their rtionship had never been the same. Could they really never get their rtionship back to the way it used to be?


    The sound of cars getting close echoed in the area and soon, the convoy of cars parked near the patio.


    Miles frowned when Ryan got out of the car. He nced at his father, Charles Kingsley, with a question mark on his face. However, before he could ask what was going on, he heard a sharp girly voice. "Grandpa!"

 Chapter 106~ Before its too late

    Miles Kingsley froze.


    He turned to look at the source of the voice and his eyes widened when he saw a small adorable figure running towards him.


    "Grandpa!" The little girl wrapped her arms around Miles'' legs and looked up. "You''re Daddy''s Daddy, right? You look alike and you look like Ethan too."


    Miles'' heart skipped a beat. He looked down at the little girl and then looked up at the woman who was approaching while holding the hand of a little boy who looked so much like Ryan. "This..."


    Miles was bereft of any words.


    He turned to look at Ryan, a questioning look on his face.


    "What''s going on, son? Are these your children?" Miles asked.


    Ryan nodded and replied, "Yes, Dad. This is E and this is Ethan. Not only is Larisa alive, but she also gave me two beautiful children."


    Miles nced at the two children, his eyes watering with tears. He said, "So, I''m a grandfather... and I''m thest person to know that my son has children?"


    "Miles, it''s not really easy to tell you anything when you have a viper whispering in your ears," Charles remarked, his eyebrows furrowing.


    Miles looked at his father and snapped, "Father, you''ve always been unweing towards Celeste. She''s a good woman. You would see that if you only gave her a chance... knowing you guys didn''t tell me about my grandchildren just because of my wife makes me feel so sad..."


    He turned to look at Ryan and uttered, "I''m your father, Ryan."


    "Yes, you are, Dad... but-" Ryan wanted to ask Miles if he had really been acting like a father all these years.


    However, he held himself back because of the kids. He sighed and said, "I''m sorry, Dad. I should have told you when I found out about them."


    Miles nced at Charles and gave him an usatory look. "Father, you should have told me. I don''t like how you three have isted yourselves from me just because I married someone you don''t like. But you have to ept Celeste because she''s been nothing but nice to everyone. She doesn''t deserve this kind of treatment."


    He looked down at the little girl hugging his legs and smiled before carrying her in his arms. "Hey you... I''m your grandpa!"


    E giggled and replied, "Yes, I have two grandpas and one big grandpa. Our family is so big!"


    Ethan came closer and said politely, "Hello, Grandpa, nice to meet you."


    Miles smiled, his heart feeling full when he looked at Ethan. Indeed, the boy had inherited the Kingsleys'' facial genes.


    "Hello, young man! Nice to meet you!" Miles smiled and stretched his hand.


    Ethan smiled and rushed towards Miles before thetter hugged him too.


    "Grandpa, are you angry at Daddy? He didn''t mean to hide us. It was a surprise!" E proimed and Miles chuckled.


    "I guess it''s a good surprise. I''m so happy to know that I have two grandchildren! Let''s go in-"


    "Wait!" Diane suddenly squealed. "That''s not fair, old man. I haven''t met the twins yet... how can you hug them alone without giving me a chance?"


    Miles looked at his daughter and his heart clenched. How long had it been since Diane called him that?


    He didn''t know when it happened, but it seemed their perfect family had fallen apart over the years.


    "You can have your turn... but they will be with me when we go inside," Miles replied.


    Diane excitedly came closer and introduced herself to the twins. "Hi there, little ones. My name is Diane and I''m your favorite aunty!"


    "Hi, Aunty Diane!" The kids said in unison and Diane''s heart melted.


    She took E from her father before squeezing her in a hug.


    "Oh, I couldn''t wait to meet you, my cupcakes. I''ll spoil you rotten!" Diane eximed. After hugging E, she put her down before carrying Ethan in her arms who seemed to protest. "Aunty, I''m a big boy. You don''t have to carry me."


    "Nonsense, you can never be too big for your aunty," Diane replied before squeezing Ethan in a warm hug.


    When they were done with the greetings and introductions, the family went into the mansion.


    "Where''s Celeste and Isabe?" Ryan asked, noticing that they were not around. No wonder no one was passing annoyingments since they arrived.


    "I have no idea... they said they were meeting a rtive in town and they would take long to return," Miles replied and Ryan arched an eyebrow.


    "And you don''t have a problem with that? Why didn''t that rtivee to the mansion? It''s not like you''ve stopped Celeste from bringing her rtives here," he asked.


    "Well," Miles frowned. "Perhaps they wanted to have privacy. They would have stayed home if they had known that they would meet the newest additions to our family." Silence fell upon the ce as they settled in the living room.


    Miles sat with the twins on a big couch. He looked at them before saying, "I can''t believe I''m a grandfather. Ryan, your mother would have been so happy if she were still alive. You should take the kids to see her."


    Ryan lowered his eyes as sadness crept into him. Indeed, his mother would have been the proudest had she still been alive.


    "Where''s grandma?" E asked, her eyes looking around.


    Ryan smiled and replied, "She''s in heaven but I''ll take you to see her where she''s resting so that she meets you and Ethan."


    The family continued to chat about this and that while Miles entertained himself with the kids.


    Lora approached Ryan and whispered, "I didn''t expect your father to be so weing... he always seemed so aloof in the past."N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    "That''s because that witch is not


    around... when she''s near, there''s this heaviness that surrounds Dad and he bes unapproachable. today is One of the rare moments where you get to see him smile at us. When Celeste is around, he always finds faults with us," Ryan responded, anger ring through him at the thought of his


    stepmother.


    "Perhaps all you need is alone time with him... talk to him and tell him what''s in your heart and mind. You should fix your rtionship before it''s toote," Lora suggested.


    Ryan nced at Miles who was


    happily ying with the kids and a


    small smile graced his lips. He


    always wanted to get along with his


    father but how? Celeste was always around to make sure they were always at odds.


    Sighing, he replied, "You''re right. He''s my father... I have to work on our rtionship. I don''t want to regret losing another loved one again."

 Chapter 107~ A short trip

    It was a weekend and Ryan had asked Lora to escort him on a business trip. Since she was going to miss him if he went alone, Lora agreed to tag along.


    "So, where are we going? Is it a nice ce? Maybe we can have a mini vacation while we are at it," Lora asked as Lawrence drove them to the airport. "It''s a secret..." Ryan responded with an air of mystery.


    Lora arched an eyebrow, curiosity creeping into her. She smiled and asked yfully, "What do you mean? I will know when wend anyway." "No, you won''t," Ryan replied. "I will make sure you only find out when we arrive at the hotel."


    Lora nced at him with confusion on her face but Ryan didn''t exin what he meant.


    She only understood his words when they had flown for many hours and Ryan suddenly decided to blindfold her.


    "Ryan... can you stop being so mysterious?" Lora protested. "Where are you taking me?"


    "Do you trust me?" Ryan asked in a deep velvety voice.


    "Yes, I do... very much," Lora replied.


    "Well, then you have to follow my lead..." Ryan replied. "It''s a surprise, so no peeking."


    "Are we really going on a business trip?" Lora asked.


    "No... it''s not a business trip. I''m taking you on a short trip where we will spend the night together... just you and me," Ryan said huskily. Lora''s heart did a flip, her stomach fluttering with butterflies.


    She loved that Ryan was being spontaneous and it turned her on. So, she quietly followed Ryan''s lead when the private jetnded.


    Ryan led Lora to the hotel that he had reserved earlier. When they entered the room, he ced Lora in front of tall floor-to-ceiling windows before saying, "I''m going to take off your blindfold now." Lora''s heart was thundering in her chest as Ryan took off the blindfold slowly. When her eyes were finally free, Lora gasped at the view in front of her.


    Her eyes rounded in shock and her jaw dropped to the floor.


    "Ryan... this is... this is breathtaking," Lora remarked, her eyes gleaming as she looked ahead at the Eiffel Tower in the distance.


    Ryan had brought her to Paris! The city of love!


    Ryan wrapped his arms around Lora''s waist before asking, "Do you like my surprise?"


    Lora turned to look at him and said, "Are you kidding me? You brought me to the city of love for a short trip! This is so sweet, baby." Before Ryan could tell what was happening, Lora jumped on him and crashed her lips on his, her legs wrapping around his torso. "Thank you..." Lora said in between kisses. "I love this surprise so much."


    Ryan ced Lora''s back against the window and kissed her fervently. He ced his hands under her ass for bnce before slipping his tongue into her mouth and rolling it with hers, tasting her vour. The two kissed like crazy in the luxurious room which was draped in soft, warm light. They forgot about the champagne in the bucket of ice and the candlelight dinner that was set up on the side. All they cared about was each other.


    "I want to make love to you, Lora," Ryan said when they broke away from the kiss for some air.


    "I want you to make love to me..." Lora responded breathlessly.


    They looked into each other''s eyes intensely before Ryan crashed his lips against Lora''s in a fiery kiss.


    He carried her away from the window and took her to the bathroom. From there, he entered the shower while still carrying Lora.


    Opening the shower, they stood under it as warm water cascaded on them like a waterfall, all the while Ryan''s lips didn''t leave Lora''s. They kept kissing like it was their first time.


    Ryan ced Lora on her feet before pushing her against the ss wall. He then got down on his knees and spread her legs before lifting one and cing it over his shoulder.


    Lora moaned when she felt Ryan''s tongue on her core, her body craving his touch so intensely that she held the back of his head, pushing his face deeper into her core. Ryan groaned as he ate Lora out with fervor.


    "Ryan, oh yes!" Lora cried out, pleasure sizzling through her.


    Ryan kept sucking and licking Lora''s core until she came undone, squirting all over his face.


    "That''s it, baby!" Ryan groaned as he licked her clean. He used his finger to spread her pink lips before stroking her core, slow and sensual, his eyes never leaving Lora''s dove cave.


    Lora blushed at this but the pleasure was too much to be shy right now.


    Ryan suddenly scooped her up in his arms before taking her back to the room. He didn''t mind that they were both wet and ced her on the bed.


    He then climbed on top of her before crashing his lips on hers, kissing her hungrily and making her taste herself.


    "Do you like how you taste, my love?" Ryan asked in a raspy voice as he spread Lora''s legs before wrapping them around his waist.


    Lora nodded, moaning when she felt Ryan''s tip on her opening.


    He was so hard and ready... just like she was so wet and ready for him.


    Ryan looked into Lora''s eyes for effect before sliding into her core, slowly but surely, inch by inch until his whole length was buried deep into her core.


    The moment he felt her warmth, he hissed and and cussed, "Fuck."


    It was too pleasurable, he felt like he was about to explode.


    He took a moment for Lora to adjust to his huge size before he began to thrust into her, fast and hard.


    Lora moaned, her eyes widening at the way she felt full. Had Ryan always been this big?


    "Oh, Ryan, yes!" Lora cried out as Ryan mmed in and out of her like an angry beast. It was like he was trying to make up for all the years they weren''t together. Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    Lora didn''t mind... she weed the passion... the desire and the raw need that she felt from her man.


    She gave him her all, letting him take what he wanted just like he gave her what she needed.


    The room was filled with groans and moans as the couple made love like a couple of hungry beasts who had been starving for years.

 Chapter 108~ Favorite meal

    "Oh, Lora... fuck!" Ryan groaned as he mercilessly pounded in and out of Lora''s core.


    After burying himself in Lora''s warmth, he lost control.


    Pleasurable tingles coursed throughout his body. He could feel them in his toes, fingers... in every fiber of his being.


    He had always imagined himself making love to Lora. How it would feel having her beneath him as he thrust into her...


    However, reality was far different from his fantasies. It was better...


    Lora''s moans... the way it felt to kiss her, the way her body reacted to his thrusts... everything about Lora amplified the pleasure for Ryan.


    It was like he was already in heaven.


    "Ryan! Yes, right there!" Lora cried out and Ryan sped up his movements.


    He pounded into her passionately, each thrust he made felt like it was hitting her soul.


    Like Ryan, Lora too felt pleasure like no other.


    Electric currents coursed through her, making her body shudder the harder and deeper Ryan''s thrusts became.


    A sharp, pleasurable ache settled in Lora''s abdomen, slowly building up until her body shook violently.


    She ended up clenching repeatedly around Ryan''s rod, squeezing his manhood into a release.


    "Fuck!" Ryan groaned as they reached their orgasm together. It was so sudden, he didn''t even have time to pull out.


    Lora''s legs trembled as Ryan slowly thrust in and out of her to help her ride out her release. As he did this, Lora''s body trembled, sizzling sparks ring through her.


    Breathing heavily, Ryan pulled out of Lora''s core beforeying by her side and pulling her into his arms.


    "That was..."


    "Epic," Lora replied, her breath still fast and heavy.


    "It was wonderful," Ryan remarked. He looked down at Lora before saying, "I''m sorry I wasn''t gentle... I just couldn''t hold myself back... you have no idea how much I''ve been craving you." "Well, I do now. My legs hurt and I think I''m swollen down there," Lora replied.


    ""Let me see-"


    Ryan climbed on top of Lora before settling between her legs. He grabbed her legs and spread them wide for him to see, making Lora blush as she objected. "Ah-No! I was joking... Ryan! Ah! Oh..."


    Lora''s eyes rolled to the back of her head when she felt Ryan give her core a big lick with his skilful tongue.


    "Ryan... oh yeah!" Lora moaned, a smile gracing her lips as Ryan proceeded to eat her out.


    He was slow this time... taking his time to taste, explore and worship Lora''s core.N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    "Fuck, this has be my favorite meal, baby," Ryan said huskily. "I can''t wait to dine on you every day of my life."


    He ran his tongue along Lora''s inner thigh, going down to her leg until her toes.


    Ryan kissed Lora''s toes one at a time before he trailed his tongue up her leg again, smirking when he felt her body tremble.


    "Ryan..." Lora moaned, biting her lower lip when she felt Ryan''s tongue on her core again.


    With all the teasing, it didn''t take long for Lora to hit her climax once again.


    She curled her toes and rode Ryan''s face, screaming, "Ah! Yes! YES!"


    Ryan inserted two fingers into Lora''s tunnel of pleasure. He finger-fucked her hard until streams of liquid left her core.


    "Yes... make it rain for me, baby. Such a good girl," Ryan said in his deep seductive voice.


    Lora continued to shudder until she came down from her high.


    Ryan came up to her, he leaned in and captured her lips in a searing kiss.


    When he pulled back, he asked, "Is it still swollen?"


    Lora blushed and bit her lower lip before replying shyly, "It feels better now."


    "Mmmmm... I guess I would have to eat you out every time we make love, baby because I don''t think I can be gentle your body drives me crazy. The moment I''m inside you, I lose my senses. I just want to hold you close and fuck you so hard until your legs turn numb," Ryan stated.


    Looking into Lora''s eyes, he added, "I''ll try my best to be more gentle from now on."


    "What if I don''t want you to be gentle?" Lora asked and Ryan arched an eyebrow.


    "My girl likes it rough?" He asked, smirking before he said. "Perfect. We are made for each other."


    The two rested for some time before they got up for a much-needed shower When they were done, they sat at the set-up table to have some food which had be cold.


    Lora nced at the melted candles and apologetically remarked, "I''m so sorry, baby. You put so much effort into arranging this but-"


    "Trust me this is the best night of my life," Ryan replied with a grin. "Candles can be reced but what we just did, can''t. It''s priceless, Lora and want us to remember that moment forever."


    They continued to chat as they ate their dinner. When they were done, they had a video call with the kids to bid them goodnight.


    "Want to go for a walk?" Ryan suggested and Lora readily agreed.


    "I thought you would never ask. This ce looks so beautiful... I want to see it," Lora replied, a smile curling her lips.


    She had always wanted toe to Paris. However, even though she discovered she was from a rich family and returned home, she hardly had time to take trips.


    Firstly, she had been studying hard for the past six years to be the best designer that she was. Secondly, she had children and they could be a handful at times. Lora couldn''t find the time to go on a trip to just rx.


    Luckily, Ryan had already thought of it and brought her along.


    Ryan smiled and extended his hand towards Lora.


    Lora took his hand before they inteced their fingers, looking up to meet his eyes with a smile gracing her lips.


    Ryan ced their inteced hands into his coat pocket before saying, "Let''s explore."

 Chapter 109~ A night stroll

    Lora and Ryan took a night stroll as streetlights cast a warm ambience over the cobblestone streets, lighting up the path for the couple.


    The air was cool and carried the faint scent of flowers from nearby gardens, mixed with the sweet aroma of freshly baked bread and pastries wafting from cafes that were still open into the night. Lora took a deep breath, sighing in satisfaction. The night was perfect and she wouldn''t have it any other way.


    "Has Jason called you or he''s still quiet?" Ryan suddenly asked as they wandered down the quiet streets.


    Lora nced at Ryan and raised an eyebrow. She asked, "Where''s that questioning from?"


    She wondered if Ryan was still insecure about Jason. Lora had made it clear that she had ended things with him so that they could start over on a clean te... but it seemed Ryan couldn''t forget about the man she once dated. "I just find it strange that he went quiet just like that. Maybe he''s nning something," Ryan responded, his eyebrows furrowing.


    After Lora broke up with Jason, he suddenly went MIA.


    Although Lora understood that he needed time to process the breakup, it was strange for him to disappear like that.


    However, Lora still didn''t think Jason was a bad guy. He was someone she once relied on forfort, even though it wasn''t in a romantic way.


    She sighed and replied, "I told you he''s a good guy, Ryan. He''s just hurt. I''m sure he just needs time."


    Ryan didn''t continue with the topic. However, deep down, he vowed to add more investigators to look into Jason''s background.


    There was something about him that made Ryan suspicious. But he couldn''t put a finger on it.


    It was strange how he was unable to find anything on Jason.


    Who was he? Where did hee from? Did he approach Lora on purpose?


    All these questions kept rushing through Ryan''s mind, but he didn''t voice them out, not wanting Lora to feel bad. She already felt guilty about hurting Jason. Ryan didn''t want to add to her burden.


    They continued to walk in the quiet streets, the city''s magic enveloping them.


    asionally they would gaze into each other''s eyes and steal a kiss or two.


    They soon settled on a bench where they could look up at the Eiffel Tower. It looked so beautiful under the twinkling stars.


    From there, Lora asked Ryan, "When do you n to talk to your father?"


    Ryan froze, his heart clenching. He wanted to have a heart-to-heart talk with Miles, but it was easier said than done.


    "I don''t know... but it should be soon," He replied. "I can only talk to him when Celeste isn''t around but she usually sticks to him like glue."


    "It better be soon... don''t give people who want to see you estranged from your father the satisfaction," Lora advised, squeezing Ryan''s hand that she was still holding.


    Ryan had not let her hand go ever since they left the hotel. He kept a firm hold on her, giving her a sense of security.


    "You''re right, baby," Ryan responded. "I''ll find time to meet him so that we can talk."


    "That''s my man," Lora remarked and Ryan froze.


    "What''s wrong?" Lora asked with a raised eyebrow, wondering why he looked shocked.


    "Say that again," Ryan requested.


    "That''s my man?" Lora replied.


    Ryan bit his lower lip sensually before using his free hand to cup the back of Lora''s neck. He then pulled her in for a kiss.


    The two kissed under the night sky, focussing only on each other as the world seemed to fade away.


    Ryan kissed Lora passionately, slipping his tongue into her mouth and letting it dance with hers. He deepened the kiss with every second that passed, pouring his emotions into it. Lora''s heart raced as she kissed Ryan back with equal vigor, the butterflies in her stomach going wild. In fact, it was a whole zoo in there.


    The way Ryan kissed her... she could feel his emotions through that kiss.


    They continued to kiss, enjoying each other''s vour like the night would nevere to an end.N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    It was only when Lora gasped for breath that Ryan let up from the kiss. He cupped Lora''s face before kissing her eyes softly.


    "I love it when you call me your man," Ryan remarked, a smile crossing his lips.


    "There''s nothing strange about that. You''re my man, are you not?" Lora asked, blinking her eyes yfully.


    Ryan let out a low chuckle before replying, "Yes, I''m all yours."


    He held Lora''s free hand with his before bringing it to the left side of his chest and added, "My heart is yours, my love. My body belongs to you... you can do whatever you want with it." "Can I?" Lora asked with a cocked-up eyebrow. "Are you sure you can go on? You looked pretty tired earlier."


    Ryan narrowed his eyes at Lora. He replied in a dangerously low voice, "Is that a challenge? I can go on all night, the question is, can you keep up?"


    Lora''s eyes widened. She shook her head and said, "I''m just joking, I know your injuries are not fully healed yet."


    "Who cares about that? I have to


    prove to you that I can go all night, otherwise, you would think I can''t satisfy you," Ryan uttered before scooping Lora into his arms carrying her bridal style.


    "Ryan, I was just joking!" Lora eximed, her eyes gleaming with joy. She wrapped her arms around Ryan''s neck, saying, "Now you''re going to carry me to our room?" Ryan nodded and replied, "Yes, I have to show you my strength so that you will never doubt me again."


    Lora giggled as Ryan began to run in the direction they came from.


    "Ryan, you don''t have to- Ah!" Lora squealed, giggling at the bumpy ride she was subjected to.


    However, her heart felt full.


    This was the type of love she always wanted. A love where nothing was forced... theughter, the care, the love... everything came naturally.


    There was no confusion in her heart... she didn''t have to spend sleepless nights asking herself if her man loved her back or not. Everything was clear for her to see...


    This time, she knew deep down in her heart that Ryan loved her and it was the best feeling in the world.


    When they arrived at their hotel


    room, Ryan carried Lora to the tall windows and said, "Earlier, I wanted to fuck you by the window but I thought the bed would be ideal for our first... you know... make up sex. But now, I can do you wherever I want."


    Lora giggled and gasped when Ryan ripped her dress. She red at him yfully and scolded, "Hey, that''s being wasteful."


    "I''ll take you shopping in the


    morning," Ryan said before crashing his lips on hers in an explosive kiss He pushed her against the ss, holding her arms up on either side of her face, all the while still kissing her hungrily.


    Soon, Lora''s chest was pressed against the window as Ryan entered her from behind, pounding into her like his life depended on it.


    Lora''s moans filled the room, pleasure ripping through her as she enjoyed both the view and what Ryan was doing to her.

 Chapter 110~ Not my type

    "So, are you going to tell me how you figured out I was Larisa?" Lora asked Ryan for the umpteenth time.


    They were on their way back to Moonstone City and she kept trying to find out how Ryan found out who she really was.


    However, Ryan kept dodging the question and talking about something else. This made Lora suspicious and she was now more interested in knowing.


    "I know you hired someone to investigate me but you couldn''t have found anything. My uncle is an excellent tech guy. He can make anyone disappear," Lora remarked.


    She sat back in herfortable leather chair in the private jet, giving Ryan a side nce.


    "Come on, tell me. I want to know... I don''t think it''s Ivy. She wouldn''t have wanted you to know who I really was," Lora added.


    Ryan''s eyes slightly widened. He looked at Lora and asked, "Ivy had known about you and the kids earlier?"


    He thought she found out when she kidnapped Lora. Once again, Ryan''s heart waspletely filled with guilt. If only he hadn''t fallen for Ivy''s deception... everything would have been avoided. However, in real life, there are no ifs. Only regrets. Lora nodded and replied, "Yes, she did. She saw the kids and put two and two together."


    Ryan gritted his teeth before saying, "Damn... I was careless. Ivy could have done so much to hurt you guys. Luckily, I found out before it was toote-"


    "Mr Kingsley, don''t change the subject here. How did you find out?" Lora asked again.


    Ryan sighed, feeling conflicted. He didn''t want to hide anything from Lora, but his friend would also get in trouble with Bianca if she found out he had installed a spy app on her phone.


    "Do you think I don''t deserve to know the truth?"


    "What? No... no, baby. You do... I just... I saw the children too," Ryan replied. "Ethan looked so much like me... I knew the moment Iid my eyes on the twins. I knew they were mine and I confirmed my suspicions about you being Larisa." Lora furrowed her eyebrows. She asked, "How did you see them?"


    "I saw their pictures in Adan''s phone. He..." Ryan sighed before telling Lora everything.


    Deep down, he secretly said, ''I''m sorry, Adan. But I have to break the bro code, I can''t keep this from her.''


    "What?" Lora eximed, anger shing through her eyes. "That''s so wrong! How can you invade someone''s privacy like that?"


    "I know, love. Adan said it was the fastest way to find out if you were really Larisa. We were desperate," Ryan replied, guilt creeping into him.


    Lora sighed, her eyebrows furrowing. She said, "I have to tell Bianca. She deserves to know the truth."


    Ryan nodded and replied, "You''re right... I''ll tell Adan to talk to her and apologise. But I don''t regret anything... I found you even though you were hiding from me."


    Lora smiled and remarked, "I was determined to never let you find out about me..."


    Sadness crept into Ryan at those words. But he understood where Lora wasing from. He had hurt her so much in the past, it was no wonder she didn''t want anything to do with him when she returned.


    Looking into her eyes, he stated, "I''m grateful you gave me another chance... second chances are hard toe by, and the fact that you agreed to open your heart to me again just shows how kind and loving you are. Thank you for forgiving me, my love."


    Hourster at another part of the city.


    Bianca Jones walked into Maddie''s sports apparel store with a tight jaw and cold eyes.


    A salesdy saw Bianca and thought she was there for a photoshoot. She approached her and politely said, "Miss Jones, you''re not scheduled for a shoot today-"


    "Where''s he?" Bianca went straight to the point.


    "Huh?" The salesdy was confused.


    "Where''s your stupid, jerk of a boss?" Bianca replied. "I know hees to this store at this time of the day. I went to Nicholson & Sons building but I wasn''t allowed through. I want to see him."


    The salesdy saw how angry Bianca was and knowing how Adan was with thedies, she thought Bianca had be a victim of Adan''s womanising tactics.


    "Um..." The salesdy trailed, wondering if she should tell Bianca the truth. What if she made a scene at the store?


    "Where''s Adan Nicholson, that jerk? I want to see him, now!" Bianca yelled, her eyes shing with anger.


    She had spoken to Lora earlier and found out what Adan had done. Bianca was infuriated. The man not only stole her first time, but he also put a spy app on her phone to spy on her. "Where''s Ada-"


    "Are you looking for me?"


    A deep velvety voice echoed around them and Bianca froze. She turned around to find Adan standing behind her with an annoying smirk on his lips.


    "You..." Bianca curled her hands into fists. "How dare you?"


    Adan had been briefed by Ryan, so he knew why Bianca looked like she was about to release steam from her ears.


    "Who do you think you are, Adan Nicholson? How could you sneak around when I''m sleeping and put a spy app on my phone? I feel so exposed right now," Bianca spat, her eyes colder than ice.


    She was upset because she was the


    reason that Ryan found out about


    Lora. Even though Lora ended up reconciling with Ryan, it wasn''t. Bianca''s secret to tell. She felt like


    she had indirectly betrayed her best


    friend.


    Adan''s heart clenched. He was about to apologise when Bianca added, "You''re so filthy. Is that what you do? Do you spy on all the women you sleep with? What did you hope to achieve, huh?"


    Clenching his hands into fists,


    Adan''s eyes turned cold as he


    nced at Bianca. Instead of the words he wanted to say earlier, he sneered and said, "Do you think you''re part of those women? have a type, Miss Jones."


    Bianca froze. "What do you mean?"


    "I mean, nothing happened between you and me. You got drunk and vomited all over me so I took you to my ce.... don''t think I would ever touch you when you''re not my type,¡± Adan replied coldly, anger ring through him.


    How dare she call him filthy?


    So many people had called him that but Adan didn''t know why hearing it from Bianca irritated him to the core.


    A flicker of hurt shed through Bianca''s eyes. She red at Adan and spat, "I was wrong about you. You''re such a jerk!" She whipped around and left the store angrily.N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    At the same time, Adan opened his mouth to call for her. However, he stopped himself, thinking, ''It''s all for the best.''

 Chapter 111~ Moments to remember

    Days came as quickly as they went.


    On one weekend, Ryan and Lora took the kids to the arcade.


    The sound ofughter and shing lights filled the bustling arcade as Ryan led his family through the rows of shing games and prize machines.


    Ryan grinned as he held up a stack of tokens. He nced at the twins and said, "Who''s excited to have fun?"


    "MEEEE!" E, as usual, jumped happily, reaching for the tokens.


    She said, "I want to y so many games, Daddy."N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    Ryan nced at Ethan and asked, "What about you, buddy?"


    "Anything is fine," Ethan replied calmly.


    "He''s excited too, Daddy. He''s just shy to say," E remarked and the adults chuckled.


    Ethan rolled his eyes at his sister but he didn''t say anything to refute her words.


    E moved from one station to another, her excitement infectious. It was like she didn''t know what game to choose. Regardless, she seemed to be having fun. Ryan noticed that Ethan''s gaze seemed to linger on the racing game. He smiled and asked, "Ethan, son, do you want to race with your old man?"


    Ethan''s eyes sparkled before he quickly masked his emotions. He cleared his throat and replied, "I don''t y childish-"


    "Come on, it''s going to be fun!" Ryan said, carrying him and taking him towards the racing game.


    Seeing this, Lora followed E as she continued to explore, leaving the boys to bond.


    At the same time, Ryan settled Ethan into his seat before he took his ce beside him.


    "Hey, buddy. Get ready to get crashed!" Ryan warned yfully.


    Ethan scoffed and replied, "Not gonna happen. I''m the best at this game, Daddy."


    "Well, let''s put your skills to the test, shall we?" Ryan said as the both of them readied themselves at the starting line.


    The game started and Ethan was already in the lead. He leaned forward, holding the steering wheel tightly, his brows knitted in serious concentration.


    "You see, Daddy? I''m a pro! You''re way behind me!" Ethan eximed happily.


    Ryan smiled when he saw his son smile. This was the first time he was seeing his son behave like a five-year-old boy. Ethan was always so serious like an adult.


    Ryan grinned and said, "Oh my... this is hard! How are you doing this son? This is harder than real driving!""


    Ethan grinned when he saw his father struggle to keep up with him. Pride filled his chest as he replied, "You see, Daddy. I''m good at this."


    Ryan pretended to fumble at the wheel when he noticed that he was gaining on Ethan. After deliberately slowing down, he hissed and eximed, "Oh no! I missed my chance to boost my speed!" "Hehe! Daddy, you''re so bad at this..." Ethan said. "Let me show you how it''s done. I''m now adding my turbo boost... Here we go!"


    Ethan''s car gained full speed and left Ryan''s car way behind.


    "Oh, no! I''m losing!" Ryan yelled.


    The two were having fun as they raced. Ethan especially loved this moment with his father. He never really liked games but if he could y with his father, it wasn''t so bad.


    The game came to an end with Ethan winning Ryan by a long margin.


    Ethan threw his little fist in the air and yelled, "Yes! I won!"


    "Indeed, you did. Looks like I have to up my game if I have to keep up with you," Ryan replied.


    The father and son looked for Lora and E. They found them at one of the w machines in the arcade.


    When E saw Ryan, her eyes lit up. She rushed towards him and grabbed his arm before leading him to the machine.


    "I want that pink bunny, Daddy," E requested.


    "It''s not easy... I''ve already used five coins and I couldn''t grab the bunny," Lora uttered.


    Ryan smirked and said, "Let me do it for you."


    Looking at his daughter, he promised, "I''ll get that pink bunny for you, princess."


    Fifteen minutester, Ryan''s forehead was coated with beads of sweat. He had already used ten coins and yet, he couldn''t grab the pink bunny.


    E sighed and said, "Daddy, it seems this is hard for you too. Let''s go and try something else."


    "No, princess. Daddy said he would get you this bunny. Daddy always keeps his promises," Ryan proimed.


    He exchanged his tokens for some coins and tried again. However, as soon as the w grabbed the bunny, it slipped and fell back into the box. "Ryan, I think it''s ok. We can just get her a bunny from a store-"


    "No, I must get my daughter this bunny," Ryan said, determinationced in his voice.


    Lora and the kids watched helplessly as Ryan tried his best to grab the stuffed toy.


    After an undetermined amount of time, Ryan sessfully snagged the bunny.


    E let out a shriek of joy, jumping happily, "Yay!"


    When Ryan took out the pink bunny, he presented it to his daughter who held it protectively in her arms.


    "Thank you, Daddy. I''ll treasure this bunny," E remarked.


    Watching this scene, Lora couldn''t


    help but smile warmly. The day had been well-spent. Lora felt a warmth in her heart, grateful for these precious moments she had with Ryan and their children.


    They were moments to remember.


    Unbeknownst to them, a photographer had been taking pictures of them, capturing their joyful family moments.


    It didn''t take long for the inte to


    go crazy, sharing articles, pictures and videos of the twins ying in the areade. Everyone was interested to read about Ryan Kingsley and his family.


    Meanwhile, in a dimly lit room, a woman checked her phone and happened to see the trending news about Ryan and his family.


    In the pictures, Lora and Ryan looked so happy and in love. To top it off, they had beautiful kids that could make anyone envious.


    A cold look shed through the


    woman''s eyes as she whispered to


    an empty room, "Enjoy it while itsts, tora. I''m going to make you lose everything that is dear to you."

 Chapter 112~ Prince Charming

    "Mommy, why don''t we all sleep over at Daddy''s ce?" E asked while they were on their way back.


    She looked at her brother for support and Ethan looked at Lora before saying, "Let''s all sleep at Daddy''s house tonight, Mommy. We will go back tomorrow."


    Ryan and Lora had agreed that the children would sleep over that night. Having never stayed with kids before, Ryan hired four nannies and four personal nurses to help him take care of the children in case of anything. However, hearing the children''s suggestion, he couldn''t be more thrilled. It would be better if he learnt how to take care of the twins from Lora.


    He also wanted her to sleep over at their mansion which had been unupied for years. Even though they didn''t have wonderful memories in it, it was still their first property as a married couple.


    Looking at Lora, he uttered, "I think you should listen to the kids and sleepover at the mansion. It''s home anyway... I know we said we will wait but I think it''s ok since we will be with the kids."


    Lora bit her lower lip, knowing her mother wouldn''t like this. She still didn''t seem to want to warm up to Ryan.


    Regardless, Lora couldn''t say no to her kids. She smiled and nodded, "Ok. I''ll sleep over too."


    "Yes!" E and Ethan eximed.


    They were going to spend the night together as a family! The twins couldn''t wait for the experience.


    Soon, they arrived at the mansion and when they entered, Lora gasped.


    "You were right. It''s still the same as it used to be," she remarked, looking around.


    The walls had the same paintings that Lora had picked out back then. There was also a portrait from their secret civil wedding.N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    Lora arched an eyebrow knowing it was never there six years ago.


    The tips of Ryan''s ears turned pink as he said, "I thought the living room could use a picture of us."


    Lora smiled. Her eyes fell on the vase on the coffee table. She had gotten that vase at a cheap store and peopleughed at her for loving cheap things. However, she loved it because it was simple and didn''t stand out too much. "You kept this too?" She remarked, her eyes softening.


    "I didn''t want to erase the only thing that reminded me of you," Ryan responded. "So I left this ce untouched."


    "Is this where we will stay forever and ever?" E asked and Ryan nodded.


    "Yes, it is."


    "I love it! It''s so nice!" E squeaked before running around.


    "Careful, princess," Ryan said before turning to look at Lora.


    "Should I draw you a bath?" He offered.


    Lora''s cheeks turned pink.


    She recalled something and said, "Oh no... I don''t have clothes here."


    "Who said you don''t? You have plenty of clothes here because this is your home," Ryan replied. "You go up and freshen up as I watch the kids."


    Lora nodded and went upstairs. She went to the master bedroom and when she opened the walk-in closet, her jaw dropped to the floor.


    The wardrobe was full of new clothes that were her size. Ryan had even purchased lingerie for her.


    When she saw the fluffy handcuffs in the drawer, Lora giggled. ''I never knew Ryan had this side to him.'' She mused.


    After choosing some simple pajamas, she went into the bathroom and soaked herself in a hot tub.


    By the time Lora was done, she found Ryan and the twins already in bed.


    She arched an eyebrow seeing them all looking fresh, dressed in matching pajamas. It seemed Ryan had prepared the kids for bed already. "What''s going on here?" She asked.


    "We are sleeping together as a family," E remarked. "We''ve left space for you, Mommy. Come and sleep."


    Lora''s heart fluttered.


    She smiled and walked towards the bed before sliding into her side.


    Ryan didn''t have to use the kids to make them sleep together so Lora knew he genuinely wanted to sleep with them.


    As they all settled in bed, E said, "This is the happiest day of our lives. We got to sleep as a family!"


    "Yeah... it feels good," Ethan chipped in.


    Lora and Ryan nced at each other before they smiled, warmth flickering through their eyes.


    ...


    At the same time, in another part of the city.


    Diane Kingsley was seated at the club, chugging down tequ shots like she was in a drinkingpetition.


    "Hey, give me two more shots please!" She requested when she downed one more.


    The bartender shook his head and said, "Miss, you''ve had enough shots. You should go home-"


    "Who said I had enough shots? The night is just getting started..." Diane responded, slurring.


    She had pulled her hair into a ponytail and her cheeks were flushed from the alcohol, making her look cute.


    The bartender ignored her and Diane demanded, "Give me a shot for a million! I just want a shot!"


    "I can give you shots and more, beautiful," a voice came from behind.


    Diane turned her head around and squinted her eyes. When she saw that the man standing behind her looked like a thug, she spat, "Get lost!" The thug got angry.


    He looked Diane over with a leering gaze as he said, "I was nice to you, but now I''m done being nice. You''reing with me tonight, my love."


    Diane just scoffed and paid for her shots before getting to her feet. She didn''t have time to entertain lunatics.


    Although she was drunk, she was still aware of her surroundings. No one could take advantage of her.


    However, just before she could walk away, the thug grabbed her hand and hissed, "I said you''re going with me tonight."


    Diane frowned and began to pull her hand away. "Let. Me. Go."


    The thugughed like a maniac.


    "Aren''t you tough? Fight me if you want me to let you go, hahaha-Ah!"


    The man shrieked in pain like a baby before he let go of Diane.


    Diane''s eyes widened when she saw the man who had pulled the thug away from her. It was Aiden Davis and be was in a ck leather jacket, a white polo shirt and jeans.


    Aiden had twisted the thug''s arm


    before saying dangerously, "Next et


    time, l''break your hand for


    touching someone you''re novel.f


    supposed to. Now scram!"


    Diane, in her drunken stupor, was in awe. Aiden really looked like Prince charming as he stopped the bad guy from harassing her.


    "What''s going on? What are you


    doing here?" Aiden asked, arching an


    eyebrow. His dimples flexed even


    with his serious face, making him


    look hot.


    Diane staggered, her eyes seeing double.


    "I came to drink because I met my ex. He was with his wife and they mocked me! Those betrayers!!!" Diane yelled.


    Since she was drunk, she didn''t really care about what she said.


    Aiden arched an eyebrow. He recalled her words when he mentioned that she had not been hurt before and a frown crossed his face. Guilt filled him when he realised how harsh he had been. He shouldn''t have judged her when he didn''t really know anything about her.


    He sighed and said, "I had a bad day too... but since it''s not as bad as yours, I''ll take you home. I''m a neighbour''s keeper."

 Chapter 113~ Medical file

    "That bastard! How dare he mock me?!"


    "He''s the one who cheated, why should I be the one to avoid him?"


    "Fuck you, Noah and that bitch you call your wife!"N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    Diane screamed at the top of her lungs with her head outside the car window, the night breeze hitting her face as Aiden sped his car through the streets.


    He was helping her let out her frustrations by taking a drive around the city.


    "I hate you for wasting my time! Don''t think I care about you, you''re just trash!"


    "Don''t let me see your ugly face again!"


    Diane sat back in her seat, her face flushed from the cold air. She was breathing heavily, her chest rising and falling as she tried to calm down.


    All that screaming seemed to have sobered her up and her anger disappeared.


    Aiden nced at her and asked, "Do you feel better now?"


    "Yeah... it feels good to let it out of my chest. I don''t know why I just froze when I met them... I should have given them a piece of my mind," Diane remarked, the memory from a few hours earlier shing through her mind and making her cringe. ##shback to hours earlier##


    Diane had been shopping when she bumped into thest people she wanted to see that day.


    ''Why do I have to bump into this adulterous couple today of all days?'' Diane mused.


    She hissed and turned around to avoid them, however, a sickening voice reached her ears, making her stop in her tracks.


    "Diane, long time. I didn''t expect to see you here."


    Diane scoffed after hearing the familiar female voice. She turned around to look at the couple, her jaw tight from anger.


    The nerve of them to talk to her after what they did.


    "Long time? I didn''t intend to run into the two of you for the rest of my life," Diane replied, sneering.


    Elizabeth Benson, Diane''s former best friend, gasped and asked, "Diane, why are you acting like this? You don''t still me Noah and I for what happened, right? We just fell in love... we didn''t intend to hurt you."


    "Liz, you don''t have to exin yourself to her," Noah Thompson, Diane''s ex-fiance, said. "I chose to be with you, it''s not a crime."


    "Oh, Noah... you can''t just say that knowing Diane still loves you..." Elizabeth remarked in her sickening sweet voice.


    "Well, I don''t love her. She just has to ept it and move on," Noah replied. He looked at Diane and stated, "I know you still love and care about me, but move on, Diane. I love Liz... I don''t know how you knew we would being to this store but stop stalking me. I''m a married man now."


    Diane was bereft of any words.


    Noah was a narcissist! What made him think she was still in love with him to the point of stalking him?


    Quite alright she was hurt by his betrayal, however, that''s just what it was. The pain of being betrayed by someone she loved with all her heart was still strong. But she had moved on a long time ago... Noah and Elizabeth were now strangers to her.


    "If you follow us again, I will be forced to report you to the police," Noah proimed and led Elizabeth away.


    By the time Diane came back to her senses, Noah and Elizabeth had already passed and she couldn''t miss the mockery in Elizabeth''s eyes.


    Anger red through Diane.


    Elizabeth used to be her bestie. Her ride or die.


    However, Diane''s world came crumbling down when she found Elizabeth in bed with Noah on the night before their wedding. They imed to have fallen in love with each other and were unable to stay away from each other. Diane was hurt big time. This was why she left the country to advance in her studies.


    Seeing the two after four years brought back painful memories that she thought she had forgotten.


    ##End of shback##


    What hurt more was how Diane forgot to respond to Noah''s taunting words. They probably thought she had really followed them to the store because she didn''t say anything to defend herself.


    "Sometimes it''s ok to stay silent and let dogs bark, Don''t be disturbed by someone as insignificant as that man," Aiden remarked. "He sure is blind if he left you for another. woman... If you were mine, I would never hurt you."


    Silence fell over them at Aiden''s words.


    Diane turned sharply to look at him and they locked eyes briefly.


    When the air around them crackled with an electric charge, Aiden cleared his throat and uttered, " mean... you''re a beautiful, kind woman. Any man would be lucky to have you."


    Diane smiled and replied, "You''re quite good atforting people. Thanks."


    "Anytime, neighbour," Aiden replied with a side smirk on his lips.


    The next day at the mansion...


    Ryan opened his eyes and found Lora ncing down at him worriedly.


    His heart raced as he asked, "What''s wrong, baby?"


    "I should be asking you that... why do you still look pale?" Lora asked, her eyes roaming over Ryan''s body.


    She nced at the scars on his arms and her eyebrows furrowed. "The pain should have been mild by now... are you still in intense pain?"


    Ryan let out a chuckle and replied, "I''m fine, baby. I just need to take some iron supplements to boost my Hb levels."


    "Are you sure you''re alright?" Lora asked worriedly. "You looked fine yesterday but now you look pale and you''ve overslept. That''s so unlike you." Ryan cupped Lora''s face before leaning up for a kiss.


    "I''m very much fine, baby," Ryan replied after pulling away from the hot kiss.


    Lora felt lightheaded, the kiss causing butterflies to flutter in her stomach.


    "Where are the kids?" Ryan asked when he noticed they were alone.


    "They are downstairs with the nannies you hired. Why did you hire so many?" Lora asked helplessly.


    "Our children need the best care in the world...e, let''s shower quickly before the kidse up," Ryan suggested, carrying Lora to the bathroom.


    An hourter, Lora was doing her makeup when a file on the vanity table caught her attention. She picked it up and frowned when she read it.


    [Ryan Kingsley''s medical file.]


    The file was from a different hospital from the one they usually use. Why would Ryan leave the hospital where he had shares and go to another hospital for treatment?


    Lora was about to open the file when Ryan''s voice came through the door, "Baby, let''s go down and have breakfast."


    "I''ming," Lora replied and put the file down, realising she shouldn''t be looking through Ryan''s medical file unless he wanted her to.


    While having breakfast, E looked at Ryan and said, "Daddy, will youe to our school PTA meeting? I have a surprise for you."


    Ryan nced at Lora who looked guilty. She remarked, "I''m sorry, I forgot to say. I received a circrst week for parents to attend. We can go together if you won''t be busy..." "Busy? Are you kidding me? I''ll always make time for our kids," Ryan dered and the children grinned from ear to ear.

 Chapter 114~ The PTA meeting

    The day of the annual Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) meeting had arrived and Ryan was present as promised.


    "Are you sure you''re not busy?" Lora asked worriedly when they arrived at the children''s school.


    "No, I''m not... I''ll be going on leave soon so I''ve delegated most of my work," Ryan replied. "And I wouldn''t miss this important moment for anything in the world. My father stopped showing up when I was young and it affected me... I don''t want our kids to go through the same."


    Lora bit her lower lip, her heart feeling full. There was just something attractive about a responsible, present father. Right at that moment, Lora loved Ryan a little more.Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    Ryan and Lora entered the school auditorium, holding Ethan and E''s hands. The hall was buzzing with a low hum of parents and teachers chatting as they filled the seats.


    Ethan and E immediately spotted their friends and waved excitedly. They wanted their friends to see that they came with both their parents to the PTA meeting.


    "Ok, you two. Time to go and sit with your friends, your father and I will be in the audience," Lora remarked.


    The twins gave both their parents hugs before going to join their ssmates at the seats reserved for the children.


    Ryan smiled and held Lora''s hand before leading her toward the sitting area reserved for parents.


    After they settled, Ryan suddenly said, "I need to get something, I''ll be back."


    Lora frowned and replied, "Can''t you get itter? The program is about to start."


    "No, I need it now. I''ll be back soon, I promise," Ryan stated before getting up and leaving.


    E saw Ryan leave. She looked worried as her eyes followed him where he was going.


    Lora saw this and her stomach knotted when she saw the look on her daughter''s face. Was she worried that Ryan would leave without watching her perform?


    When E turned to look at Lora with watery eyes, Lora shook her head and mouthed, "Daddy ising back."


    Although it was far, she made gestures with her hands and E seemed to understand. She nodded her little head and turned to concentrate on the program.


    After a brief wee speech by the principal and a few updates from the PTA board, it was now time for the student performances.


    Luckily, Ryan returned with a huge gift bag and settled in his seat before the performances started.


    "You went to get gifts?" Lora asked.


    "I asked Lawrence to bring them for me... I couldn''t just watch our kids without something to give them after," Ryan said before looking at the children and giving them a wave. E grinned when she saw Ryan, her face glowing with excitement.


    "Do you know what she has nned?" Ryan asked. "She looks so happy."


    Lora shook her head and responded, "I have no idea. Perhaps she''s just happy we are here together to watch them perform."


    "I''m excited too... This is my first PTA meeting!" Ryan whispered just as the ce went silent. "I never knew it felt so good to be someone''s father."


    Soon, the kids began to perform the poems and skits they had prepared. The hall was filled withughter and apuse from proud and happy parents as they watched their children perform. Ryan was nervous for his kids knowing they would have to stand in front of so many people. He kept shifting in his seat and asking Lora if the children would be ok.


    Lora chuckled at his restlessness and said, "Rx, they will be fine."


    It was now E''s turn to perform. Her brother held her hand before leading her to the stage.


    "Aww, so sweet," the audience cooed at the sweet gesture.


    After making sure E was settled, Ethan walked towards the piano at the corner of the stage and began to y.


    Gasps echoed around the hall when they heard the music. Even Ryan''s eyes widened into saucers.


    How was this five-year-old kid ying the piano so beautifully like an expert?


    E held the microphone to her lips and took a deep breath.


    She looked out into the audience with wide eyes but the moment she saw Ryan and Lora smiling and waving at her, her face softened into a confident smile.


    "My name is E Davis Kingsley, and I would like to share a special poem that I''ve written," E''s adorable voice echoed through the hall.


    Ryan and Lora shared surprised nces. They didn''t expect E to add Kingsley to her surname on her own.


    At the same time, Ethan changed the tempo and yed a slower piece that was in line with E''s poem.


    E looked out at the audience, her gaze settling on her father, her smile growing as she focused on him. In a clear, sweet voice, she began:


    "My Daddy is the best Daddy in the world,


    He gives me warm hugs when I feel sad, making me feel safe.


    With him, our family is finallyplete,


    And I''m the happiest girl in the world, because my Daddy is by my side.


    My Daddy is my hero,


    He''s there to catch me before I fall, always protecting me,


    With his love, I feel like the luckiest girl in the world,


    And I''m so proud to say he''s my daddy, every single day.


    I love you, Daddy."


    As E finished thest line, Ryan was already rushing towards the stage, tears rolling down his cheeks.


    A hush had fallen over the


    auditorium, E''s small voice filling the ce with so much love and


    sincerity that even the other parents were visibly moved.


    Ryan got onto the stage and presented a bouquet of roses to his little girl and the audience erupted into a warm round of apuse.


    E grinned as she got the flowers and Ryan carried her, twirling her around, saying, "Daddy loves you more, my Princess."


    He ced E on his hip before motioning for Ethan to join them.


    Ethan rushed towards his father and hugged his waist.


    Ryan''s tears flowed down his cheeks effortlessly.


    What did he do to deserve these two?


    He swallowed, his expression a mix of pride, awe and love.


    E smiled, feeling a little shy as she held her bouquet of roses.


    The audience continued to p until


    they got down the stage. Lora couldn''t help but shed a tear while in the audience, letting the father and children bond.


    Seeing her children so happy was satisfying.


    Later on their way back, Ryan nced at E and said, "Thank you, princess. I loved your poem. And Ethan, that piece was excellent. Well done, son!"


    E beamed while seated in the backseat of the car, shyly ying with her bouquet while Ethan held the gift his father had bought for him. It was a smartwatch forkids and he loved it very much.


    "Did you really like the poem, Daddy?" E asked.


    "Like it?" Ryan remarked. "I loved it so much! I''ll remember it forever!"


    E grinned, her face lighting up with pride. Ethan smirked, his sister''s smile making him happy too.


    Lora''s heart felt full and warm... she nced over at Ryan as he drove the car, her heart fluttering. Giving him a second chance was worth it.

 Chapter 115~ In her office

    Dayster...


    Lora was having an interview for a business magazine.


    The interviewer nced at her and asked, "Miss Davis, you''re so young and already so sessful. How did you manage to be the CEO of Davis & Co. at only twenty-eight years old?"


    Lora smiled. She looked at the interviewer and replied, "Well, My daddy is the boss... so..."


    The audienceughed and Lora chuckled, her words lifting the tension in the room. It was a live show with a few guests in the background while Lora and the interviewer sat in front, facing the audience. "Are you saying you got your position because of your father?" The interviewer asked.


    "Yes," Lora admitted. "How would I manage to rise so fast if it weren''t for him?"


    She took in a deep breath and continued, "My father saw potential in me... he believed that I could lead thepany to greater heights and that''s why he gave me this opportunity to take over from him. I did get the position because of my surname... but I work hard every day to make sure I deserve to be the CEO of Davis & Co."


    The interviewer nodded, impressed by Lora''s honesty.


    He went through his script before saying, "A lot of young people are referring to you as their inspiration because of your achievements. What do you have to say to them?"


    Lora nced at the cameras and remarked, "I don''t have much to say. No one has lived this life before... we are all experiencing it first-hand. What may work for me, may not work for someone else. Do what you think is best... also, the aim is to fight hard and never give up! There''s always light at the end of the tunnel."


    "Thank you for those kind words, Miss Davis," the interviewer said. "Enough about business, let''s talk about your personal life. People would like to know about your love life. Is there a special someone in your life?"


    At that question, Lora blushed profusely.


    "That expression tells me you''re deeply in love," the interviewer remarked. "You were trending again a few days ago... a picture of you and Mr Kingsley went viral. Everyone was shocked to find out that you have secret children. Are you and Mr Kingsley together?" Lora nodded and replied, "Yes, we are. Ryan Kingsley is my man."


    "You''ve broken so many hearts right now... including mine, I was hoping I could have a chance," the interviewer uttered.


    Lora shrugged and said, "Too bad, I''m taken by Mr Kingsley."


    The interviewer faked a heart attack. He grabbed his chest and stated, "Too bad for me... I guess happiness is not for me in this life. You''re really beautiful.. don''t your male employees drool over you?"


    Loraughed and replied, "I can''t say drool per se... but I do have a few admirers. And some of them are brave enough to express their feelings."


    "I knew it. There was no way you would be this beautiful and not be popr. I would risk my job to ask you out if you were my boss," the interviewer remarked.


    Loraughed heartily, her eyes watering with tears.


    "Oh, you''re so funny," she replied before wiping the tears from the corners of her eyes.


    When the interview was over, Lora returned to thepany.


    After entering her office, she almost screamed when she found a tall figure perched on her desk.


    "Ryan? You scared me!" She scolded, breathing a sigh of relief.


    He had given her quite a scare.


    "I want you to be scared," Ryan said in a low dangerous voice. "I''m about to punish you."


    Lora''s heart skipped a beat as she approached the desk.


    "Punish me?" She asked with an arched eyebrow. "For what?"


    Ryan straightened up before approaching Lora. He then grabbed her hand and led her to the desk until her ass was perched on it.


    Leaning forward, he ced his hands on either side of her frame, his breath fanning her face.


    "I never knew that young men in yourpany admire you a lot... I''m here to mark my territory," Ryan rasped, his deep voice sending a tremor through Lora. "They do admire me but they don''t cross the line-"N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    "Sshh," Ryan ced a finger on


    Lora''s lips. "The fact that they are admiring what belongs to me makes me so mad. I''m here to do you in this office... I want everyone to hear how much I make you happy want them to know who you belong to."


    His words made a warm liquid gush out of Lora''s core, making it clench repeatedly.


    Why was this turning her on so much?


    Without another word, Ryan lowered his head and imed Lora''s lips, kissing her hungrily. He slipped his hand into her pants and groaned before pulling away from the kiss.


    "Fuck, you''re already wet. You''re so


    naughty, Ryan said huskily. "Have


    you been looking forward to me fucking you in your office? Is that why you''re already ready for me?"


    en


    Lora wanted to respond but she threw her head back, biting her lower lip before releasing a sultry moan of pleasure as Ryan rubbed her clit.


    "Ryan..." Lora moaned breathlessly, pleasure rushing through her.


    "Yes, baby. Keep calling my name," Ryan uttered huskily, his finger going faster and harder on Lora''s clit, stimting her.


    He kissed her jaw, her neck and her nose before capturing her lips again, kissing her with passion.


    "Ryan, please..." Lora begged hornily, intense pleasure washing over her.


    Ryan suddenly turned her around before pulling her pants down. He then bent her over her desk, her breasts grazing the wooden surface.


    "I would have loved to take my time... but one of your admirers might want to check on you. It''s enough for me if they know you''re taken," Ryan said before he took out his hard rod.


    After giving it a few pumps, he ced it at Lora''s core, rubbing it there to coat it with her pussy juices.


    When he entered her from behind, Ryan hissed and froze. If he hadn''t stopped himself, he would have cum just after entering Lora''s core.


    It felt so good and tight... she was so wet that his dick had slid in with ease, causing electric currents to tingle every part of his body.


    With his hand on her waist, Ryan began to make sharp, powerful thrusts into Lora''s core.


    The pleasure was too much that he hissed and threw his head back, pounding into Lora rapidly like a steed.


    Lora was a moaning mess. She failed to hold back her moans and let go, letting her sounds hit the walls of her office.


    "Ryan! Oh my God! Oh yes! That''s it!" Lora cried out, bucking up against Ryan to meet his thrusts.


    It didn''t take long for the two to fall over the edge.


    Once again, they came at the same time, shuddering as wave after wave of pleasure washed over them.


    Ryan pulled out and dered, "That should do it. Those admirers will stay away from you from now on."

 Chapter 116~ A date with Mommy

    "Mommy, would you like to go on a date with us?" Ethan asked Lora over the weekend.


    Lora arched an eyebrow. She was seated in the garden, rxing on a swing and reading one of her favorite books. Ryan had gone on a business trip to seal a deal, so he wasn''t around to keep her busy.


    She looked at Ethan andughed, "A date? Can you afford one?"


    "Of course!" Ethan responded and took out a ck card. "Big Grandpa gave us our allowance and we want to spoil you."


    Lora''s eyes widened as she stared at the card meant for VIPs. Who gives a five-year-old an unlimited card as an allowance?


    Lora sighed, stretching her hand to cup Ethan''s face. She replied, "Thank you, sweetheart. But this is your allowance... you get what you want. Mommy already has money."


    "I know you have money, but we just want to do something special for you... please?" Ethan remarked, batting his eyes.


    Lora chuckled, amused at Ethan''s attempt to act cute. It was rare to see him like this, so she gave in. "Fine... but we won''t spend too much. You should save or invest your allowance to make it bigger."


    When they passed through the living room, Lora nced at her parents and said, "We are going out for a bit."


    "You''ve agreed to go on a date with us?" E asked excitedly, she had been waiting inside the mansion as Ethan did the needful.


    "Yes, I have," Lora replied. "Anything for you my darlings."


    "Yeah!" E squeaked, jumping up and down. "We are going to have so much fun, Mommy. You will see."


    Freya and Jack Davis looked at Lora. They were seated on a two-seater couch in the living room, enjoying a movie.


    Freya smiled and remarked, "Have fun. See you soon."


    Jack nodded. He smirked and wrapped a hand around Freya''s shoulders before saying, "Take your time... I want to spend time with my wife."


    Lora rolled her eyes and led the kids out of the house. The driver was already waiting so, they got into the car and left.


    "So, what do you have nned for our date?" Lora asked.


    Ethan smiled and said, "We are going to an ind!"


    "What?" Lora eximed, her eyes rounding in shock. "H-how? What ind? And why is the date so grand?"


    She thought they just wanted to take her to the theme park and then they would get some pizza and ice cream like always.


    "Rx, Mommy," Ethan remarked before taking out the ck card again. "We have everything under control. The ind belongs to big Grandpa, which means it belongs to Daddy and that means it belongs to us."


    Lora arched an eyebrow. She didn''t want the twins to take advantage of Charles'' kindness.


    "Find another ce where we will have the date. We can''t go to the ind-"


    "No, Mommy, everything has been arranged already. We can''t cancel now... don''t you feel sorry for the workers who''ve put in effort in nning this date?" Ethan reasoned. "Besides, big Grandpa will be sad if we don''t use his money. He said he wanted to do something for his great-grandkids and we chose to take you on a date."


    "Please don''t say no, Mommy," E pleaded, backing her brother up.


    Lora sighed, realising the old man wanted topensate for lost time. She looked at the twins and remarked, "Let me inform your father-"


    "Daddy already knows, Mommy. He told us to make you happy while he''s away," Ethan stated. "It''s going to be fun."


    Lora saw that the children were eager, so she relented.


    To her surprise, the first destination was a clothing store at the shopping mall.


    Lora arched an eyebrow and asked, "What are we doing here?"


    "Mommy, don''t ask so many questions. We are here to buy you a dress," Ethan replied. "You need a nice dress for our date."


    Lora sighed and just went along with what the kids had nned. They went into the store and Lora was given a rose gold gown to change into. Although Lora was confused, she went along with everything. She stayed calm even when the stylist came to work on her makeup and hair. When Lora left the dressing room, she found the kids had changed too.


    E was a in princess rose gold gown, with her hair pulled up and styled while Ethan was a in small navy suit with a rose gold bowtie. It was like they were going to @g or something.


    en


    "Ok, spill. What''s going on? Did your father put you up to this? What is he nning? Tell me," Lora demanded, unable to keep calm anymore.


    By now, she had figured out Ryan had something to do with this. It was too perfectly nned out to be the children''s idea alone. Was he going to....?


    E was about to reply but Ethan


    beat her to it and said, "What are youN?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    talking about, Mommy? We are


    ¦µ¦«


    going on a date. When we arrive at the ind, we will have dinner and have a photoshoot. That''s why we''ve dressed up."


    Lora narrowed her eyes at Ethan but the boy''s face did nothing to betray his emotions. He was so good at acting.


    Lora sighed again, she knew the twins were hiding something from her. However, she wasn''t going to call them out. Since they tried their best to keep it a secret, she would go along with it.


    The bodyguard led Lora and the kids to the rooftop where a helicopter was waiting. Lora didn''t think much of it since it was the fastest way to get to the ind. However, she did think about how expensive this date was. Weren''t the Kingsleys spoiling the twins too much? Even if Ryan nned something, this was too extravagant.


    "Mom,e on. Rx... you look so stiff," Ethan remarked when they entered the helicopter.


    Lora frowned at her son but she giggled, thinking he looked cute trying to act like an adult.


    Soon, the helicopter left the rooftop and flew into the sky. The hum of the helicopter des filled Lora''s ears as she gazed out the window, taking in the sweepingndscape below. She was mesmerised by the greenery and the distant mountains, they looked so breathtaking looking at them from this angle.


    After some time, Ethan suddenly eximed through the headphones, "Wow! Mommy, look!"


    Lora nced down through the window and her heart skipped a beat at what she saw.


    A heart shape was carefully crafted against the ground, outlined with bright red and white flowers.


    Lora''s breath caught in her throat when the heart shape became clearer as the helicopter got closer to the ground.


    Inside the heart, white roses were used to vividly write the words,


    [Will you marry me again, Lora Davis?]

 Chapter 117~ Approval

    Days


    earlier.


    Ryan went to the Davis mansion to see Freya Davis when Lora was at work.


    "You didn''t waste time, huh? Thirty days on the dot," Freya remarked as she held a mug in her hand, stirring her tea.


    "I''vee for feedback," Ryan replied confidently. He smiled and said, "Honestly, I wouldn''t me you if you still don''t want me in your daughter''s life. As a parent now myself, I can''t even imagine someone hurting my children."


    He took a sip of the tea he was served before he continued, "But I do believe people change for the ones they love... I might have been indifferent to Lora back in the day but now, I know what she means to me. I know she''s a treasure that I can''t lose. I know that without her, there''s no me. I would lose myselfpletely if I lost her again. This is why I will never do anything to hurt Lora again, I promise."


    Silence fell over the ce and Ryan waited patiently for Freya''s response. His heart was galloping wildly in his chest, hoping for a positive answer. For what he wanted to do, he needed Freya to approve of his rtionship with Lora.


    Ryan knew Lora wouldn''t take the next step with him until she was sure both her parents were ok with it.


    So, he desperately needed Freya''s approval.


    "I''ve been watching you for thest thirty days and..." Freya trailed, a frown stering her face.


    Ryan''s heart jumped to his throat, his stomach twisting this way and that. He was anxiously waiting for Freya''s response like his life depended on it.


    "Oh,e on, honey. Give the man a break," Jack Davis'' voice echoed in the room before he came into view holding his own cup of tea.


    He sighed and said, "He had already eaten the world''s hottest chili and never gave up! Give him a chance. I think he will make Lora happy."


    Freya suddenly chuckled. She looked at Ryan before saying, "You passed the trial! Like I said, all I care about is my daughter''s happiness and I can see that she''s happy when she''s with you. Take care of her, she''s my one and only daughter." Ryan''s eyes lit up, relief washing over him as he replied, "Thank you so much-"


    "But..." Freya interrupted. "If ever, at any point you feel like you''re tired of her... or if you fall out of love with her, please don''t mistreat her or use bad words on her. Just return her to me, I''ll be waiting for her with open arms."N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    Ryan''s heart clenched, touched by Freya''s words. Lora was so lucky to have parents who loved her dearly and he was so happy for her. She deserved to receive all the love in the world.


    His face turned serious as he proimed, "You don''t have to worry, Mrs Davis. As long as I''m alive, I''ll try my level best to make Lora happy."


    "Call me Mom... I''m not Mrs Davis to you," Freya requested and Ryan immediately felt at ease.


    He smiled and said firmly, "Thank you, Mom."


    Looking at Jack, he was about to call him Dad when Jack shook his head and uttered, "You''re not allowed to call me Dad... call me Sir. You will only call me Dad when I see a certificate with the name, Lora Davis." Ryan nodded and replied, "Makes sense, Sir. I''ll be calling you Dad soon."


    ...


    Present time...


    Ryan stood on a raised tform, family and friends seated on chairs under a white tent as he waited for the helicopter tond.


    His heart was racing, beads of sweat coating his forehead as nerves twisted his stomach.


    By now, he was sure Lora had seen the surprise he had prepared. Would she say yes? He knew she loved him but... what if she changed her mind about being with him forever? There was only one way to find out...


    Soon, the helicopternded nearby


    and Lora was escorted by the twins. She did look surprised to see her parents, and her best friend seated under er the tent. However, her erthe


    attention was soon stolen by the man who looked like he had just


    seen his whole world.


    Ryan''s eyes watered when he saw Lora in the gorgeous dress he had picked for her. Like Ethan, he too wore a navy suit with a rose gold bowtie. The family of four were twinning. Lora looked so beautiful and he couldn''t wait for her to walk down the aisle on their wedding day.


    When Lora and the kids got close, Ryan stepped down from the raised tform to receive Lora. When he looked into her eyes, he saw how teary they were and he couldn''t help


    but drop a few tears himself


    It had been a long journey of ups and downs but now... he was going to do right by her. She was the love of his life.


    "Thank you for bringing your mother, Ethan and E," Ryan remarked, stretching out his hand towards Lora.


    The twins smiled before leaving Lora and went to sit with their grandparents.


    Lora slid her hand into Ryan''s, her eyes never leaving his. They stepped onto the raised tform that was decorated with gardenias and rose gold balloons.


    "Ryan..." Lora said in a shaky voice. She was still trying to take in everything. "You did this for me?"


    "Yes, my love. I invited our family and friends toe and be witnesses as I..." Ryan got down on one knee, still holding Lora''s left hand. "Ask you to be my wife."


    Looking into Lora''s eyes, Ryan said, "I know we have a certificate that says, Larisa Bet and Ryan Kingsley. But now, I want to have one with your real name... Lora Davis."


    He swallowed the lump in his throat,


    trying to prevent more tears from


    falling and continued, "I love you,


    de


    Lora Davis. You''re the only woman ? I''ve ever seen myself growing old with... Loved you even after death... e determined to follow you soon. However, a miracle happened and you turned out to be alive, now all I can think about is spending forever with you. I want to wake up next to you, go on dates with you, raise our children with you and see our gray hair with you."


    "Lora Davis, will you make me the happiest man on this earth by marrying me again?"


    Lora''s tears rolled down her cheeks, her heart pounding rapidly in her chest. The love she felt for Ryan was so strong that her heart ached.


    Nodding, she replied, "Yes, Ryan. I''ll marry you again... I love you and I never stopped loving-"


    Lora''s lips were sealed by Ryan''s sudden kiss. He cupped the back of her head and kissed her deeply, pouring all his emotions into the kiss... love, passion, care. The crowd whistled and erupted into a warm apuse.


    Pulling away from the kiss, Ryan slid the ring onto Lora''s finger before he raised it to his lips for a soft kiss.


    Looking into her eyes, he stated, "Thank you for saying yes, baby. I''ll make sure our wedding is grand... I want the whole world to know that you are my wife."

 Chapter 118~ Why is it you?

    Lora''s heart fluttered, butterflies in her stomach going wild.


    Tears rolled down her cheeks when she looked into Ryan''s eyes. She knew he would propose to her soon, but she had no idea he would do it this way.


    When she was in the helicopter, looking down at what Ryan had prepared, she thought she was dreaming.


    The effort he had put into the proposal was out of this world. She felt like she was a princess in her own fairytale movie.


    "Thank you, Ryan. I really like this surprise," Lora remarked, sniffing away her tears.


    Ryan smiled and wiped Lora''s tears away before saying, "I''m d you love it, baby."


    The crowd soon joined the couple to congratte them and wish them well.


    Charles Kingsley was the first to hug his grandson. He patted his back and said, "What you''ve done right here, sonny... this is what a real man does. I''m so proud of you."


    Ryan smiled, hugging his grandfather back. He replied, "Thank you, Grandpa. I''m d you were always there to guide me and make me realise my feelings for Lora. I would have lost herpletely if you hadn''t been there to pump some sense into me." After pulling away from the hug, Charles nced at his grandson proudly before replying, "Oh, look at you. Happiness looks good on you."


    He then turned to look at Lora with a huge grin on his face, uttering, "I always knew you were meant to be a Kingsley forever! Congrattions on conquering Ryan!"


    Lora blushed, giggling as she replied, "Thank you, Grandpa."


    The other family and friends came through to hug the couple.


    After they were done, it was now Lora''s parents'' turn.


    Lora''s eyes watered when she saw her mother. She sniffed and said, "Mom, I said yes without getting your approval. I love Ryan-"


    Freya pulled her daughter into her arms. She stroked her back and replied, "Oh, sweetheart. I never wanted to stop you from being with the man you love. I just wanted to make sure you would be safe in his hands... he came to me and we talked. I already gave him my approval and that''s why he prepared this proposal for you. He''s going to take care of you, Lora."


    More tears rolled down Lora''s cheeks as she hugged her mother, feeling her warm embrace.


    Jack Davis hugged Lora and said, "We will always be there for you. Even as you start over with Ryan, remember, you''re not alone. You have a family who loves you and would do anything for you... so if he hurts you again."


    "Sir, I have no intention of hurting your daughter. Please trust me," Ryan chipped in, interrupting Jack Davis'' words.


    Jack scoffed before pulling away from Lora and ring at Ryan, saying, "You better not... my garden has a lot of chillies and you would eat all of them as punishment."


    Ryan and Loraughed just as the twins joined them.


    "Mommy, Daddy, congrattions!" E eximed, grinning from ear to ear.


    "Congrats," Ethan said, smiling at his parents. It felt good to see them happy together.


    Ryan ruffled Ethan''s hair before replying, "Thanks for your help, buddy. You and your sister did great."


    "Ryan..."


    Ryan nced at the source of the voice and found his father walking towards him with Celeste and Isabe walking by his side. "Dad," Ryan uttered, his jaw tight at the presence of Celeste.


    "Congrattions and thank you for telling me about your ns," Miles Kingsley remarked as they reached the couple.


    Celeste nced at the twins and said, "I never knew you secretly had kids. How could you hide your kids from your father, Ryan?"


    Ryan red at Celeste but for his father''s sake, he ignored her. He looked at Miles and responded, "Thanks, Dad."


    "Larisa, you had us all fooled. Who would have thought you were still alive and kept the Kingsley heirs to yourself?" It was Isabe who spoke this time and the air around them suddenly turned cold. Miles saw that the atmosphere was changing, so he quickly greeted Lora and said, "We shall enjoy the party."


    When he led the two women away Ryan clenched his hands into fists. "Celeste and Isabe have father fooled but they can''t fool me They are not good people."


    Lora sighed and replied, "Don''t mind them... just work on your rtionship with your father."


    "Daddy, who was that with Grandpa?" Ethan asked, furrowing his eyebrows. He saw how the two women were looking at his parents with hatred.


    "No one important," Ryan replied.


    They had a small party on the ind. There was good music and plenty of food and when it got dark, there was a disy of fireworks that Ryan watched with Lora and the children.


    "Wow, this is so cool!" E eximed as the sky lit up with blues, reds, pinks and golds...


    "Yeah, it''s beautiful," Lora replied, her eyes gleaming with joy as she rested her head on Ryan''s shoulder. Her heart felt full.


    ...


    Dayster...


    Adan Nicholson was at Maddie''s Sports Apparel store when he heard amotion from some of the staff.


    He stopped one of them and asked, "What''s wrong?"


    "Sir, the male model we hired has not shown up and we have to shoot an ad. The female model is already waiting at the beach," the man reported.


    Adan furrowed his eyebrows before asking, "What kind of ad are you shooting?"


    "It''s for the new sports swimsuit edition, Sir. We need to release them tomorrow," the man said.


    Adan knew how important releasing a new product was. He looked at the man and asked, "Have you found a new model to rece the one who didn''t show up?"


    The man shook his head, an anxious look on his face. "No, Sir. That''s why everyone is panicking right now."


    Adan fell silent for a few seconds before saying. "I''ll be the model."


    The man''s eyes widened in shock at Adan''s words. The boss wanted to be his own model?


    "What? Sir... you-"


    "Do you want me to repeat myself?" Adan questioned. "Get everything ready." ""Y-Yes, sir!"


    Meanwhile, Bianca was at the beach, wearing a pink one-piece swimsuit with cut-outs on her sides and part of her stomach. Her blonde hair was let down in curls for a stunning effect on the front page of the magazine.


    "How long do I have to wait?" She asked, frowning.


    The camera crew nced at each other before saying, "Don''t worry, Miss Jones. We''ve found a recement and the shoot will start soon."


    Bianca nodded before turning to nce at the ocean, the clear blue sky reflecting on the still waters.N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    She stood like that for some time, letting the sun bath her skin.


    "The model is here," one of the staff members said.


    "Well, it''s about time," Bianca remarked.


    She whipped around and her jaw dropped to the ground when she saw the "model" standing in front of her in nothing but a pair of dark shorts.


    The man smiled at Bianca and said, "Hi, Bee?"


    "Why is it you?" Bianca asked, her heart sinking.

 Chapter 119~ Wedding preparations

    "Is this some kind of joke?" Bianca questioned, ring at the man in front of her.


    "No, it''s not. I''m here to be your partner-"


    ""You''re not a model-"


    "For today, I am," Adan responded and silence fell over the ce.


    "I''m done here," Bianca hissed, turning to leave.


    "Miss Jones, where are you going? We have a contract!" The director yelled.


    "Well, then you better sue me for breach of contract. I''m out of here!" Bianca yelled back as she left. The staff members nced at Adan helplessly.


    "Sir, we-"


    Adan raised his hand to stop the men from speaking. He chuckled and said, "Let me talk to her."


    He ran after Bianca before grabbing her arm, saying, "Hey-"


    However, Bianca flung his hand away viciously, spitting, "Don''t touch me!"


    Adan was taken aback by Bianca''s outburst. ''I probably deserved that,'' he mused, knowing he had messed up when he let his emotions get the better of him thest time they talked. "Why are you tripping?" Adan asked, looking into her eyes.


    Anger red through Bianca. She red at Adan and questioned, "Seriously? After what happened, you expect us to act like the best of friends?"


    Guilt crept into Adan, knowing what he had said to Bianca was uncalled for. He sighed and said, "Look, I''m sorry, ok? I just got angry that you called me filthy. I didn''t like it and I overreacted."


    "I don''t care why you did it... we were never meant to be friends so let''s leave it like that. I won''t shoot an ad with you," Bianca said stubbornly.


    "I''m only shooting it to save time, Bee-"


    "Don''t call me Bee. Only my friends get to call me that," Bianca hissed.


    Adan gulped, thinking Bianca was scary when angry.


    He looked into her eyes and replied, "We can act like we are strangers... but we need this ad shot today. Where will we get a new female model at such short notice? Please, can you help me? We can work together and then return to being strangers after the shoot." Bianca was quiet for a few minutes, her anger slowly dissipating.


    She scoffed and said, "I''ll only shoot this ad because I signed a contract and I''m a responsible person. Don''t even think about acting friendly with me during the shoot or else...."


    Adan raised his right hand and swore, "I swear, I''ll be professional and only talk to you when necessary."


    Bianca rolled her eyes before walking past Adan and returning to the shooting scene, her heart racing. Why did Adan have to talk to her while wearing nothing but a pair of shorts? Those abs... God, he had a god-like body.


    At the same time, Adan found himself smiling as he watched Bianca walk back, the swimsuit fitting her body perfectly like it was made specifically for her.


    She had a great body alright... sexy, even.


    Soon, the two were standing side by side, taking shots at every angle. Adan wasn''t a model but his poses came naturally, falling in sync with Bianca.


    "Mr Nicholson and Bianca, I want us to make this look as natural as possible... This is an ad for a sports swimsuit line. We need that athletic vibe in the ad. Come on, show me some chemistry!"


    Adan turned to Bianca, a smirk ying on his lips as he asked, "Any ideas?"


    Bianca bit her lip, falling into deep thought. Her eyes lit up as a thought urred to her and she replied, "We can have a race and thenter on dive into the water."


    "Mmmm, sounds fun. You better start running before I catch you..." Adan said and Bianca''s eyes widened.


    "What? I said a race, not chasing me- Ah! Adan!" Bianca eximed when Adan tried to grab her by the waist before breaking into a run.


    "I think this is more fun," Adan remarked, chasing Bianca along the shoreline.


    A drone buzzed overhead, taking aerial shots of Adan and Bianca, capturing their yful chase.


    The director smiled and instructed the crew to take videos of the moment.


    Suddenly, Adan picked up his pace, almost catching up to Bianca.


    "Ah!" Bianca screamed before diving into the water and Adan followed suit before they both broke the surface, being waist-deep in the water, their faces inches apart.Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    For a moment, time seemed to pause, the cameras capturing their expressions as they looked into each others'' eyes.


    There was a glint in Adan''s eyes and Bianca''s lips had curved into a warm smile, the sun behind them providing the lighting for a perfect shot.


    "Perfect! Mr Nicholson, you should consider modelling as a side hustle, you''re a natural!" The director eximed, causing Adan and Bianca toe back to the present. They both backed away from each other like they had touched hot coal.


    Bianca''s face flushed pink and Adan cleared his throat awkwardly, both of them unable to look into each other''s eyes.


    When they got out of the water and


    towels were draped over their shoulders, Adan nced at Bianca and said sincerely, "I''m really sorry about what I saidst time. Dwas rude of me."


    Bianca sighed, wrapping the towel around her body. She nced at Adan before responding, "I''m sorry too. I shouldn''t have called you filthy." Adan smiled before extending his hand towards Bianca. He smiled and asked, "Friends?"


    Bianca nced at Adan''s hand before looking up at his wet face. His hair had turned into curls and some had fallen over his forehead, oh so beautifully.


    He was gorgeous, she had to admit. However, he was also dangerous and she knew she had to stay away from him.


    But since he had been the bigger person and apologised, she didn''t want to look petty, so she extended her hand and took his, saying, "Yes, friends."


    In


    In another part of the city, Ryan and Lora walked into a bridal store and were led to a VIP lounge. They had set their wedding to seven dayster, so they didn''t have time to have a custom wedding dress made.


    UA


    The salesdy served them some tea before saying, "Please be patient, I''ll be bringing out the dresses you had picked so that you can try them on." "No problem, take your time," Lora replied, smiling. "We are waiting for our friends."


    When the salesdy left, Lora nced at Ryan and asked, "Do you think they wille? I noticed some tension between Adan and Bianca during our engagement. I was even surprised that they agreed to be on the bridal team."


    "I''m sure they will work on their differences," Ryan replied, leaning down to peck Lora''s forehead. "I''m only interested in seeing you in a wedding dress."


    Soon, the four people the couple had been waiting for arrived. Lora wasn''t shocked anymore that Bianca appeared with Adan and Diane appeared with her uncle, Aiden Davis. She smiled and said, "Great! It seems you''ve already paired yourselves. May the wedding preparations begin."


    Lora chuckled, her cheeks burning.

 Chapter 120~ The fitting room

    The bridesmaids tried on their dresses and the men tried on their suits. The women would wear peach while the men would wear grey suits with peach bowties. "I love the dresses so much! As usual, you have a good eye for beautiful things, Lora," Bianca eximed and Diane agreed with her.


    "That''s right... the dresses arefortable and easy to dance in. I can''t wait to see your wedding dress-"


    "I''m the only one seeing the wedding dress, the rest of you can see it on the wedding day," Ryan remarked, his words making Diane pout.


    "That''s not fair, bro. You guys saw our dresses," sheined.


    "That''s because it''s our wedding and we need to make sure you guys look good. As for the bride, I''ll help her choose the wedding dress she likes," Ryan proimed. The rest of the guys chuckled. Adan said, "I guess we are no longer needed here."


    "We still need your opinion on the wedding cake. So you can wait as I try on the dresses and then we can pick the cake," Lora replied.


    She nced at her uncle and asked, "Are you ok, Uncle?"


    "How can I be ok when you asked me to dance? You know I have two left feet," Aiden replied with a frown on his face.


    "What?" Diane eximed and broke intoughter. "Oh my God... indeed, God doesn''t give everything. You''re so handsome and rich but you can''t dance."


    Aiden nced at Diane and arched an eyebrow before asking, "And you can do all things?"


    "Of course! There''s nothing that I can''t do," Diane responded confidently.


    "What about holding your liq-mmmm," Aiden released muffled sounds when Diane suddenly mped her hand over his mouth.


    "What about holding what?" Ryan asked.


    Diane chuckled awkwardly and replied. "It''s nothing. He''s just teasing me."


    She turned to look at Aiden and realised she had identally made him kiss her hand.


    Pulling her hand away like he burned her, her cheeks flushed pink, her heart pounding erratically in her chest.


    Lora watched their interaction with a grin. She looked at Ryan and whispered, "I think my uncle likes your sister."


    Ryan furrowed his eyebrows and said, "I don''t think so."


    "Just look at them... you can see in the way they look at each other," Lora replied.


    Ryan turned to look at the two and he frowned when he saw his sister acting like a shy teen girl.


    "There''s no way I''m allowing that," Ryan dered and Lora rolled her eyes.


    "Don''t tell me you''re still overprotective over your sister. She''s thirty-one. She can date," Lora pointed out.


    "And your uncle is your agemate. He''s younger than her... Diane needs a man in histe thirties to put up with her," Ryan remarked. Lora chuckled before turning to look at Adan and Bianca who seemed to be engrossed in their own conversation.


    She let out a sigh and said, "I guess I should try on the wedding dress now. Come and help me."


    Ryan smirked and quickly carried the dresses to the fitting room. From there, Lora tried on the first dress and looked in the mirror.


    It was a princess ball gown but it wasn''t too busy. The bodice had tiny diamonds embroidered into the dress in floral patterns and it only had thin straps and no sleeves. "Beautiful," Ryan gulped, ncing at Lora through the mirror. "You look like my wife."


    Lora''s face flushed and she bit her lower lip. She loved the dress too.


    "Let me try the other one," Lora remarked and Ryan helped her with the second dress.


    However, this particr dress was a bit revealing.


    It had a thigh-high slit with arge cut-out on the back.


    "This dress looks splendid on you but..."


    "It''s too revealing," Lora finished Ryan''s sentence.


    Ryan nodded and said, "Yes... there will be so many eyes and I want your body to only be for me to look at. I have no problem with you wearing this if you want to... but not for our wedding."


    en


    Lora agreed with him. She wouldn''t befortable wearing such a dress for their wedding.


    Ryan suddenly grabbed her chin before tilting her head to the side for a kiss.


    "You do look sexy though," he whispered in her ears, his voice deep and seductive.


    Lora leaned back into Ryan and gasped when she felt something long and hard poking into her lower back.


    She bit her lower lip before standing on her toes and rubbing her backside on Ryan''s crotch saying, "Someone''s excited."


    Ryan hissed, tightening his hold around Lora''s waist. "Behave."


    Lora giggled, a naughty thought urring to her.


    She suddenly whipped around before going down on her knees.


    Taking out her hair tie, she pulled her hair into a ponytail to prevent it from falling over her face.


    When Ryan saw this, a smile crossed his lips as he asked, "Baby, are you about to do what I think you''re about to do?"


    Lora gave Ryan a seductive look and replied, "My man needs help... of course I am."


    Ryan excitedly took off his belt and unzipped his pants before pushing them down. His stiff metallic rod sprung to life, standing at attention.


    Lora gasped and licked her lips as she admired her man. He was well endowed and she wondered how he would fit in her mouth.N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    She wrapped her hands around the base of Ryan''s shaft, feeling it twitch in her hands.


    At first, she licked the mushroom tip, swirling her tongue around it before putting only the tip in her mouth and sucking on it.


    "Oh fuck yeah!" Ryan groaned, holding himself back from mming his whole length into Lora''s mouth.


    Lora took him into her mouth until his shaft hit the back of her throat. She then began to bob her head up and down his shaft, her hands working on the part that couldn''t fit in her mouth.


    Ryan''s eyes rolled to the back of his head as he slowly thrust into Lora''s mouth, meeting her halfway. He grabbed her ponytail tightly,


    explosive pleasure sizzling through him as she gave him a blow job.


    "Fuck, that''s it, baby," Ryan groaned, throwing his head back.


    He saw himself in the mirror and enjoyed the view. Seeing how Lora looked on her knees, wearing a wedding dress with his cock in her mouth turned him on so much. She looked hot. "Mmmmmm," Lora moaned as she sucked on Ryan''s rod, going faster and harder, holding his hips for bnce.


    When Lora massaged Ryan''s balls, he hissed and fucked her mouth roughly, his movements bing jerky as he said, "Fuck, I''m cumming, baby... move away-"


    Lora shook her head and held Ryan''s hips tightly, urging him to erupt into her mouth.


    That sent Ryan over the edge. He groaned and exploded in Lora''s mouth and she milked him eagerly.


    "Oh, fuck..." Ryan groaned as he pulled out his rod. His eyes darkened with lust when Lora swallowed his seed.


    He pulled her up and crashed his lips on hers, not caring about tasting himself.


    "I love you so much, babe," Ryan said, breathing heavily.


    "And I love you too," Lora replied.


    Ryan decided to buy both wedding dresses. On their way home, Lora looked at Ryan and asked, "Why did you buy the other wedding dress too?"


    Ryan smirked and said, "I want us to repeat what we did in the fitting room in our own home... you looked so sexy on your knees, wearing that wedding dress. I want to see it again." Lora blushed profusely.

 Chapter 121~ Bachelorette party

    Ryan and his two groomsmen sat in a private room at the club, drinking whiskey and ying poker as soft music yed in the background.


    Adan threw the stack of cards on the table in frustration and said, "Come on, Ryan! When you said you wanted to have a bachelor party since you never had one before you got married, I thought it was going to be wild man... Drinks, women- all the fun stuff. I can''t believe you want to y poker during your bachelor party."


    Ryan frowned at his friend and replied, "Did you just say women? I''m a married man... I can''t hang out with other women. What if Lora leaves me again?"


    Adan rolled his eyes. "You won''t be cheating... it''s just to liven up the environment. This is boring, man."


    "Of course, yers like you would find this boring. Have you seen Aidenining?" Ryan asked and Aiden arched an eyebrow.


    He smirked and asked, "Shouldn''t you call me Uncle?"


    Adanughed out loud. He eximed, "Yeah! Ryan, you''re supposed to respect the elders of the family. Wait a minute... is that why you''re pretending to enjoy poker right now? Because your wife''s uncle is around?" Ryan red at Adan and said, "No, I''m not. Don''t make it sound like I always have women around."


    "Let''s have fun, bro... I''ll invite a few people. You don''t have to interact with them if you don''t want to. I''m sure Lora is having fun too," Adan suggested.


    Ryan shook his head. "Nope. I''m not inviting any other women. I promised Lora I won''t ever get entangled with women. Besides, she''s probably also drinking with Diane and Bianca."


    "Diane has hired some male dancers though," Aiden suddenly said.


    "What?" Ryan asked, his eyes widening.


    "I heard her say it was going to be a wild night," Aiden remarked and flicked his wrist to nce at his watch. "The dancers should be arriving at the venue soon. I wonder... could they be male stripers?" Ryan clenched his jaw and almost crushed his ss of whiskey.


    ...


    Meanwhile, Diane had booked a luxurious suite at one of the five-star hotels for Lora''s bachelorette party.


    Lora nced at the ce that was decorated with balloons, ribbons and confetti before giving her sister-inw a questioning look.


    "Isn''t this too much?"


    "Too much? I wanted to do more but I had to hold myself back!" Diane eximed excitedly. "Rx, Lora. This is your night to let loose before you''re tied down for eternity!"


    "I''m already tied down though... legally, I''m still married to your brother," Lora replied in amusement. "And who are these people?"


    There were a fewdies in the room who were chatting and drinking champagne.


    "Oh, just some people I invited to liven up the mood," Diane remarked. "You don''t need to know them... they know you."


    Someone came to them and smiled at Lora before saying, "Congrattions on your uing wedding, Lora."


    "Um, thank you..." Lora replied.


    "You see," Diane said when thedy walked away.


    Bianca chipped in, "I must say, you''re very good at throwing parties. Let''s not just stand around here... let the party begin!"


    Thedies wore matching shimmering ck dresses. Lora had a white satin sash with the words, I am the bride on it. Diane and Bianca''s sash had the words, I am the bridesmaid on them.


    They began to take wine as they chatted about this and that. Diane suddenly looked at her watch and said, "The real fun is about to start!"


    Lora narrowed her eyes at Diane, getting suspicious of her excitement.


    "Why do I feel like you''re up to no good?" She asked.


    Diane giggled and said, "Oh, you''re going to love it. It''s going to be hot tonight!"


    Bianca and Lora shared a look, wondering what Diane was up to.


    Diane got to her feet and announced, "Ladies, get ready for some fun! I hope we have a lot of cash ready. Some hot men will be joining us soon!" Cheers erupted in the room as thedies waved their dors.


    "Oh, no you didn''t!" Lora said, her eyes widening in shock.


    Diane wriggled her eyebrows and replied, "Oh, yes I did. You deserve a wild night before walking down the aisle tomorrow."


    "Wow... I would love to have such a cool sister-inw," Bianca remarked, giggling.


    The doorbell rang and silence fell over the room as thedies looked at the door in anticipation.


    "They are here!" Diane eximed excitedly and sashayed over to the door before opening it enthusiastically.


    Standing in the doorway were three tall men dressed in firemen''s uniforms,plete with suspenders, ck pants and orange helmets.


    The men had masks on their faces and with the helmets on their heads, it was difficult to make out what they looked like.


    One of the men stepped forward and


    said in a very deep voice, "I heard there''s somedies on fire in here


    tonight... we are here re in


    it out."


    The women erupted in cheers and whistles, already throwing the dor bills at the men.


    At the same time, Lora froze when she heard that voice. The man had tuned his voice but there was no way she couldn''t recognise that voice.


    It couldn''t be... could it?


    Her heart raced as she looked at the man whose body build now looked familiar.


    The "firemen" stepped inside and the man at the front led his friends to get three chairs before positioning them in the middle.


    He looked at the crowd beforeN?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    saying, "We are going to choose


    three lucky women to sit on these


    to rock their worlds!" Cont


    seats tonight... And then we''re going


    More cheers erupted from the


    women as most of them hoped the hot men, would choose them. They couldn''t see their faces yet but they could tell they were hot men


    The man looked around before pointing at Lora, curling his index finger to call her over.


    "Go, go! The man has chosen you! You''re so lucky!" Diane eximed and Lora blushed as she approached the man and sat on the chair. The other two men looked around before choosing Diane and Bianca.


    Now the three women sat on the chairs as the men stood in front of each one of them.


    A song by Bruno Mars, called That''s What I Like began to y and the men began to dance, moving their bodies seductively.


    "Whoooa! This is so hot!" Diane screamed as the man in front of her put her legs between his before ripping his shirt and showing her his abs. She even reached forward and caressed the abs.


    "You can touch the abs, Lora. I won''t tell my brother, I promise," Diane said and Lora blushed.


    She gasped when the man got closer and held her hand before putting it in his shirt, making her feel his abs.


    Thereafter, he took off his helmet, followed by his mask, revealing the face that everyone wanted to see.

 Chapter 122~ Vows

    Lora gasped when she saw the man''s face.


    She grinned and eximed, "I knew it was you."


    Ryan looked confused, saying, "Wait... you recognised me?"


    "How can I fail to recognise my husband?" Lora asked and Ryan smiled happily.


    Diane froze when she heard their conversation.


    "What? You crashed the party?" She questioned, ring at Ryan. She then turned to look at the man in front of her, her eyes widening. "Then you''re..."


    The man pulled off his helmet, revealing none other than Aiden Davis.


    "Oh my god!!!" Diane shrieked, her cheeks flushing pink.


    On the other side, Adan took off his helmet and winked at Bianca. He remarked, "Surprise."


    Bianca blushed profusely. She had gotten a feel of his abs too. What would he think of her now?


    "How could you guys do this to us?" Bianca protested to hide her embarrassment.


    "It''s not fair! You guys were not supposed to be here!" Diane eximed and Ryan narrowed his eyes at her.


    "If we didn''te, I''m afraid you would give your sister-inw to another man," he remarked.


    Lora chuckled and grabbed Ryan''s hand, saying, "That wasn''t going to happen. Diane just wanted to have fun."


    "Well, I would rather you have fun with me... I couldn''t let another man dance for you," Ryan replied, bringing Lora''s hand to his lips before cing a soft kiss on it.


    ""You''ve ruined our moment!" Dianeined.


    "It''s ok... we canbine our parties and have fun," Lora suggested and everyone agreed.


    The music shifted to an upbeat and Ryan pulled Lora up for a dance.


    Aiden asked Diane to dance and Adan followed suit with Bianca. When the three of them enjoyed the music, the rest of thedies joined them, the room a mixture ofughter, cheers and happiness. At the same time, Aiden held Diane''s waist and asked, "You don''t seem happy to see me. Were you unsatisfied with my services?"


    He frowned and said, "I''m very sure I did my best. It was hard to please you, mydy."


    Diane chuckled, her sour mood dissipating. She smiled and replied, "I actually thought you were a real dancer... why did you say you have two left feet?"


    "Well, the asion called for me to dance... otherwise, someone else would..." Aiden said, his eyes staring deeply into Diane''s eyes.


    The air around them crackled and Aiden pulled Diane closer, their bodies flush against each other as they swayed to the music.


    He gulped, lowering his eyes to Diane''s lips. Diane too nced at Aiden''s lips, her heart pounding erratically.


    Why did he look like he wanted to...?


    "You''re full of surprises, aren''t you?" Aiden whispered.


    Diane came back to her senses, her stomach fluttering with butterflies. She looked at Aiden and said, "Life is too short to be predictable."


    "I see... I guess I''ll make my life interesting by trying to understand you," Aiden replied.


    Meanwhile, Adan and Bianca were chatting while dancing. He leaned over and whispered in her ears, "You look good tonight."


    Bianca''s heart skipped a beat as she thought, ''What is this yboy up to now?''


    When Adan saw her expression, he let out a low deep chuckle before saying, "Chill... I''m not going to eat you. At least not tonight."N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    Bianca arched an eyebrow and asked, "What do you mean by that?"


    However, Adan didn''t borate and continued to lead Bianca into a dance. They had danced together before so the moves came naturally. It''s like they were in sync with each other. Back to the main couple, Ryan held Lora''s waist and said, "By this time tomorrow, we will be on our honeymoon."


    Lora wrapped her arms around his neck and replied, "I can''t wait."


    ...


    The next day...


    Lora stood in a private room at the wedding venue, ncing at her reflection in the full-length mirror.


    She was already dressed in her princess ball gown wedding gown, her dark brown hair pulled up into a bridal hairstyle, adorned with pearl white hairpins.


    The train of the wedding dress flowed like liquid silk behind her and a delicate veil framed her face.


    "You look beautiful," Freya''s voice caught Lora''s attention.


    She turned to look at her mother who was dressed in a gorgeous emerald green gown.


    "Mom..." Her voice croaked.


    "Oh no.... No tears, my sweetheart," Freya said, approaching her.


    She held her hand and said, "I''m so d for this moment. I get to watch your father walk you down the aisle. I love you, my child."


    Lora sniffed back her tears and hugged her mother, saying, "Mommy, I love you so much."


    Pulling back from the hug, Freya smiled and remarked, "I''ll be in the hall waiting for you... Ryan is already at the altar."


    After Freya left, Diane entered the room, wearing a gorgeous peach one-shoulder sequined gown that entuated her figure.


    She looked at Lora, a small box in her hands as her eyes sparkled with strong emotions.


    "Lora... I have something for you," Diane remarked, approaching the bride.


    Lora turned to look at Diane, curiosity creeping into her. "What is it?"


    Diane opened the box, revealing a gold bracelet with pink diamonds on it. She said, "This belonged to our mother. I want you to have it."


    Lora''s eyes widened as she replied, "I can''t ept that, it''s for your mother-"


    "My grandma gave it to Mom when she married Dad... and since she''s not around, the duty falls on me to pass this on to you... Wee to the family, Lora," Diane said seriously. Lora''s eyes filled with tears as Diane gently fastened the bracelet around her wrist. She sniffed back her tears and stated, "Thank you, Diane. It''s beautiful."


    "Not as beautiful as you... you make a beautiful bride. My brother is a lucky man," Diane replied before pulling Lora in for a hug.


    A knock at the door brought them back to the present. Ethan opened the door and peeked inside. He looked dashing in a tuxedo that suited his size. "Mommy, it''s time," he announced.


    Lora took a deep breath, her heart pounding with excitement and nerves. She nodded and said, "Let''s go."


    Soon, the ceremony began.


    The bridesmaids were the first to enter followed by the twins.


    While outside, Lora hooked her arm


    through her father''s arm and proimed, I''m so happy, Dad. I never thought I would have anyone walk me down the aisle... I''m d you found me. I wish I had more time with you but everything happens for a reason... perhaps you finding meter was to make us


    appreciate family bonds more... I


    love you, Daddy."


    Jack Davis blinked back his tears and patted his daughter''s hand, saying, "I love you more than anything in this world, pumpkin."


    A slow, sweet melody began to y and Lora knew that was her queue to walk down the aisle. Led by her father, she walked down the aisle, her eyes focused on the man standing at the altar in a ssic


    ck tailored suit.


    She reached the altar and when it was time to exchange vows, Ryan nced into her eyes and promised, "I promise to stand by your side, to support your dreams and to cherish every moment that we spend


    ver


    together like it was thest because no one knows tomorrow. Lora Davis, I promise to fall in love with you every day because you''re so worth it."

 Chapter 123~ Special guest

    The most expensive ballroom was booked for Ryan and Lora''s wedding.


    Ryan had promised to make it grand and he didn''t disappoint.


    About a thousand people were invited and ny percent of them were high society figures from all over the world. The rest were close friends and family, together with different media houses who were there to cover the whole event. Even world stars were invited to sing at the event, making it the most expensive wedding in the century.


    Everyone in the city, the country and all over the world knew one Ryan Kingsley, billionaire and CEO of the Kingsley Group was to wed Lora Davis, CEO of Davis & Co., also, a billionaire herself.


    The hall looked breathtaking with simple but stunning deco. Rows of gold and white chairs adorned with floral arrangements framed the aisle, leading to an arch draped in white roses a the altar. Crystal chandeliers hung from the ceiling, casting a warm, ethereal glow over the ce.


    Ryan stood at the altar, feeling nervous as he waited for his bride. His dark hair was neatly styled, and his grey eyes focused solely on the golden doors at the end of the aisle, wanting to be the first one to see Lora when the doors opened. His heart raced in anticipation and when the music changed, he could feel his stomach twist with nerves.


    The doors opened and his breath caught in his throat when he saw Lora walking in. He had seen her in the wedding dress already but right now, she looked like an angel that had descended from heaven.


    Ethan and E walked down the aisle after the bridesmaids. Ethan held a whiteboard which had the words, [Herees Daddy''s bride.]


    At the same time, E was the flower girl and she scattered petals of white roses on the gold carpet for her mother to step on.


    Ryan couldn''t help but shed a few tears. Lora looked ravishing... more beautiful than he had ever seen her.


    Their eyes met through Lora''s veil and the world seemed to fade away, sparks flying around them as they drowned into each other''s gazes.


    When Jack and Lora arrived at the altar, Ryan approached them and stretched his hand towards Lora.


    Jack ced Lora''s hand into Ryan''s before giving him a hard gaze, saying, "Take care of my daughter, Ryan. She''s precious to me."


    Ryan nodded firmly as he promised, "I will, Dad. She''s my life."


    Lora stepped forward, her eyes never leaving Ryan''s as he led her forward. Her heart raced as she thought, this was it- today she would exchange vows with this man.


    She would promise to love him and only him until death does them part. It was a special day because despite being married already, they only signed a certificate without exchanging vows.


    Perhaps that was why it never worked out in the beginning... everything was rushed and they never took time to understand what they were getting themselves into.


    "Marriage is sacred," the officiant began before giving a speech about how people should honour marriage and not take it as child''s y.


    As he spoke, Lora and Ryan kept stealing nces at each other, warm smiles crossing their lips.


    Love was in the air.


    It was now time for Ryan and Lora to exchange vows. They turned to face each other, their eyes speaking a million emotions.N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    "I never knew what love is," Ryan began, his voice deep and filled with emotion. "Until I met you. You taught me that love isn''t just something that happens in the blink of an eye... it''s something you find, build and fight for. And in you, Lora Davis, I found love." He paused, letting go of one of Lora''s hands to get a handkerchief from his pocket which he used to wipe his tears.


    "You loved me first, but, in return, I


    loved you more than my life. I love you, Lora Davis. I really do... no words can exin... but my love for you can''t fit in my chest... it''s unmeasurable. I promise to stand by your side, to support your dreams and to cherish every moment that we spend together like it was thest because no one knows tomorrow. Lora Davis, I promise to fall in love with you every day because you''re so worth it."


    By the time Ryan finished his vows, Lora''s face was wet with tears. She nced at Ryan and said, "Ryan, I never thought you could love me the way you do right now... I''m not ashamed to say, it''s a dreame true. I''ve always loved you... even when you didn''t know I existed. You are my best friend, my partner for life, my heart and my all. bpromise to love you fiercely, to respect and be faithful to you... Like you said, I


    promise to grow old with you. I''ll


    always choose you, now and


    forever. I love you so much."


    The audience erupted into apuse when the couple exchanged their vows, they too were moved to tears as they witnessed the great love between the two.


    "By the power vested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife. Ryan, you may kiss your bride," the officiant said with a smile.


    Ryan unveiled Lora, his eyes sparkling as he wiped her tears. He leaned in, kissing her eyes, her nose, and her cheeks before iming her lips with a tenderness and passion that drew cheers and apuse from the guests.


    ...


    The reception was held at another grand ballroomter in the evening and the air buzzed with celebration.


    It was time to socialise so the guests dined on delicious food and toasted champagne to the newly-weds.


    When it was time for the speeches, the MC suddenly announced, "I have a request from the groom''s mother. She wants to say something."


    Ryan and Lora nced at each other before looking at the stage. Ryan clenched his hands into fists when he saw Celeste going to the stage.


    "What is she up to now?" He asked through gritted teeth before ring at his father who seemed to be as confused as him.


    "Ladies and gentlemen, thank you


    foring to Ryan''s wedding. At this moment, I would like to announce that we are going to have a special guest, it''s also going to be a surprise to the family," Celeste said proudly as she nced at the entrance. "Please, wee, Jason Anderson Kingsley, the second heir of the Kingsley Group."


    The hall fell into dead silence just as the doors opened and a young man majestically walked into the hall.

 Chapter 124~ Family drama

    "Nonsense!" Charles yelled, his breathing bing heavy. "Miles, if you won''t control your wife, I will. How dare she do this on your son''s wedding day?"


    Miles nced at Celeste and frowned. He got up, about to approach her when Jason reached the stage.


    He grabbed the microphone from Celeste and said, "Good evening, everyone. I didn''t mean to disrupt the wedding of the lovely couple... I''m actually a secret son of Miles and Celeste Kingsley and I''m back to live with my family." "Celeste... what''s going on? How is he my son?" Miles asked, his eyes wide in shock.


    Celeste nced at Miles and exined, "I actually gave birth to twins. However, due to the situation back then... your father didn''t want me and your children couldn''t open up to me, I feared for my son''s life. I didn''t want to get caught up in a session struggle, so I took him abroad and that''s where he grew up. I''m sorry I lied... but I didn''t want you to feel like he was there to steal Ryan''s position."


    Ryan scoffed from where he sat in his seat before chuckling.


    Lora nced at him worriedly. She too was shocked to find out who Jason really was. Why did he disappear and only appear on their wedding day? Was it to cause confusion?


    "Are you ok, love?" Lora asked Ryan.


    "I don''t know what to think... the man I hated and thought of as my rival is actually my half-brother? What kind of joke is this?" Ryan said, shaking his head.


    Meanwhile, Charles got to his feet and pointed a finger at Celeste and Jason. He eximed, "Are you normal? Why would we hate a child because of a position?" Charles yelled. "This is ridiculous!"


    "Father, you know how you''ve been towards Isabe and me... we''ve never really been weed. I had no choice but to hide the fact that I had a son otherwise, you would think he threatened Ryan''s position," Celeste remarked.


    The guests whispered to themselves, shocked to hear of the family drama. It seemed the Kingsley family wasn''t as perfect as they all thought it was.


    Jason smiled and looked at Lora before saying, "Congrattions on your marriage, Lora. Although, I don''t know if I can wish you happiness."


    Whispers echoed around the hall and Ryan red at the stage. He was about to get up when Jason chuckled and said, "It seems my presence has changed the mood of this joyous asion. Please do carry on, don''t mind me." He took his mother''s hand and went to sit at Celeste''s table.


    Ryan and Lora shared a look. Lora grabbed his hand and said, "Hey... let''s not let anyone destroy our day."


    "You''re right," Ryan remarked before holding the back of Lora''s head and kissing her hard.


    The MC came to rectify the situation before calling over a famous artist to perform. Once the artist began to perform, the hall was filled with celebration, but deep down, everyone knew a storm was brewing in the Kingsley family. When the event indeed, the family gathered to discuss the matter at hand.


    "Celeste, are you sure this is my son?" Miles asked.


    Celeste produced a DNA report and handed it over to Miles whose eyes lit up when he saw the result. He eximed, "I have another son. Haha! I have two sons. Come here boy, let your old man take a look at you."


    Jason moved closer to Miles and thetter hugged him. "Wee home, son. I''m sorry, you had to endure hardships out there when you could have been living in luxury with us."


    "It''s ok... I grew up well," Jason remarked.


    Miles nodded, smiling proudly thinking this new son of his was humble and obedient. He nced at Isabe and said, "You have a twin! That''s wonderful!"


    Meanwhile, Diane shared a look with Ryan helplessly, watching the new family of four reunite with each other.


    Charles looked at his family and


    sighed. He had a feeling that Celeste


    did this on purpose and


    told him the appearance of Jason spelled trouble for Ryan.


    Even though Jason was his grandson, he couldn''t help but be wary of him. Anyone close to Celeste couldn''t be trusted.


    When Jason approached him and said, "Grandpa, I''m now home."


    Charles nodded and said tly, "That''s good... I hope you get along with all your siblings."


    Getting to his feet, Charles remarked, "It''s been a long day. I''ll head back first."


    There was an air of awkwardness when Charles Kingsley left. Miles cleared his throat and said to Diane and Ryan, I hope you will be nice fo your brother. Ryan, organise for Jason to be the Vice CEO of the


    Jasony. I''m counting on you to


    help him gain a strong footing in thepany."


    When Celeste heard this, she raised her chin proudly. Finally, it was now her turn to shine. She would make sure her son got everything that once belonged to Ryan. When Miles and the other three left, Ethan nced at Ryan and asked, "Daddy, is Uncle Jason our real uncle now?"


    Ryan clenched his hands into fists,


    anger ring into him. So this was Jason''s n all along. Did he know who Lora was in the beginning and then approached her to provoke him?


    en


    He nced at his son and smiled, saying, "Yes, he is."


    Swr


    "I didn''t expect Jason to have such a huge secret," Lora remarked, feeling disappointed.


    It was like he wanted to mess up her big day... however, she wasn''t going to let anyone or anything get in her way of happiness.


    Looking at Ryan, she said, "Let''s forget about what happened today and go on our honeymoon, We can deal with Jason when we return."


    Diane nced at the couple and said, "Yes, off you go you too... I''ll take care of the twins. Don''t worry and make more babies."


    "Daddy, are you and Mommy going to make us a baby brother and sister?" E asked and the adultsughed.


    "Diane, watch what you say in front of the kids," Ryan scolded.


    Putting the family drama aside for now, Lora and Ryan got on a private jet to go on their honeymoon.N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    When they arrived at their destination, Ryan suddenly took out a file and said, "I was going to present this to you during the reception but Jason ruined it."


    Lora nced at the file and her breath caught in her throat as she asked, "Why is LAN''s luxurious Jewelry in my name?"


    "Because it''s yours," Ryan replied, smirking. "I opened it in remembrance of you but since you''re alive, you can run it from now on."


    Lora jumped on Ryan and wrapped her arms around his neck, saying, "God, I love you, Mr Kingsley."

 Chapter 125~ On top

    Lora and Ryan arrived at their honeymoon destination, their hearts feeling a little heavy from the revtion about who Jason really was.


    However, when they stepped into the vi, their hearts jumped with excitement.


    The ce looked like a scene cut right out of a movie.


    They were in an excluded ce on an ind. Their vi which waspletely made of ss resting, on a cliff and there was a waterfall at a nearby distance withrge trees surrounding the vi.


    It felt like they were living in an all-year-round rainfall area because of the sound of water cascading down the rocks.


    The scent, the air... everything about the area was just so rxing, making the couple forget about the whole world.


    At least at that moment, they wanted to focus only on each other. Anything else didn''t matter.


    The bedroom was huge and a kingsized bed was in the center with rose petals scattered all over it.


    A bucket of ice with a bottle of champagne was resting on a small bedside table with two sses of champagne next to it.


    In the bathroom, a milk bath was prepared in advance for the couple to enjoy when they wanted.


    Ryan couldn''t wait anymore. He took out the wedding gift he had prepared for Lora and smiled when she jumped on him.


    "Thank you, love... I know I''m an independent woman, but it feels good to be taken care of... to know there''s someone I can rely on in this world. I''ll run thispany well and give it to our kids when they grow up," she remarked.


    Ryan tightened his hold around Lora and said, "Speaking about kids... did you hear what E said? She wants a little brother and sister. How about we make one for her right now?"


    Lora chuckled and eximed, "Hell no! I suffered a lot with the twins. I can''t have another set of twins."


    Guilt filled Ryan at Lora''s words.


    When she realised how her words made him feel bad, she said, "I mean, being pregnant is not easy. I''m not ready to carry two kids at the same time."


    "I wish I had been there for you," Ryan said.


    "Ohe on... we talked about this. Can you stop feeling guilty?" Lora requested.


    "I can''t help it... I''ll always feel guilty for not being there when you had E and Ethan," Ryan replied.


    Lora sighed. She ced her hands on Ryan''s chest before pushing him forward.


    He willingly followed her lead before falling on the bed, lying on his back.


    "To thank you for my wedding gift, how about Ie on top tonight?" Lora offered.


    Ryan hissed, his dick instantly getting hard.


    "Come, baby. Sit on my face," Ryan ordered.


    Lora took off her gown that she had changed into before getting on the ne. She took off her panties and bra, giving Ryan a little show before she climbed on top of him, all the way to his face. Ryan suddenly grabbed her hips and brought her down before running his tongue along her core.


    Lora blushed, pleasure rushing through her.


    "Oh, Ryan!" She moaned, shuddering when he continued to attack her clit with his tongue.


    Ryan ate her out in that position, his hands massaging her ass while his tongue alternated between flicking her bead and thrusting into her dripping core.


    "You''re already so wet, baby. Do I turn you on?" Ryan rasped, stroking Lora''s core with his talented tongue.


    Lora couldn''t even string a sentence together and pleasure like no other red through her. She rolled her hips, sensual and fast, riding Ryan''s face fiercely. "Yes! That''s it! Oh god!" Lora cried out, throwing her head back as she rolled her hips, electric currents ripping through her.


    Ryan spanked her ass and that was her undoing.


    She came hard on his face, her body shivering as streamers of liquid squirted out of her.


    "Oh yeah... That felt so good," she murmured, moving her hips slowly against Ryan''s tongue.


    When she came down from her high, Lora got down from Ryan''s face and helped him undress. When he waspletely naked, she sat on his crotch before ying with his chest, tracing his abs with her fingers before humping on his shaft, coating if with her love juices.


    She was so wet and slippery that Ryan''s dick could slide in on its own.


    Ryan sat up, taking Lora''s breast into his mouth as he sucked on the nipple, twisting and ying with the other one.


    Lora kept humping on his road until finally, she sat on it, letting it slide in one inch at a time.


    "Fuck, Lora. You fit me so well," Ryan groaned, grabbing her ass and squeezing it before delivering a light tap to one of her cheeks. Lora moaned, realising she got turned on when Ryan spanked her ass.N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    She rolled her hips, riding his rod like a pro as Ryan met her thrusts with his own from below.


    "Oh fuck yeah... baby, I love you," Ryan groaned, his seductive voice causing a sharp jolt of pleasure to run down Lora''s spine.


    Lora pushed him to make him lie on his back and then she bounced on his manhood, rocking his world.


    Ryan moaned like crazy, pleasure sizzling through him.


    "Oh, fuck, Lora. That''s it... fuck! Fuck!"


    He held her hips in a firm grip before pounding into her from below, making Lora''s eyes roll to the back of her head from the intense pleasure. "Ryan, oh god! I''m close!" Lora cried out, meeting Ryan''s thrust roughly as though she wanted to embed him into her soul.


    Ryan kept pounding into her, harder, faster, making sure to hit her G-spot with every sharp, long and powerful thrust.


    It didn''t take long for the couple to cry out their orgasm, the sound of the waterfall drowning out their sounds.


    Lora lowered herself and kissed Ryan. In return, he cupped the back of her head and kissed her hungrily before flipping them over.


    He got hard again whilst still inside of her and ploughed her like crazy.


    "Oh Lora, I could do this all night, you''re so sweet!" Ryan groaned Lora''s ears, his thrusts bing harder and faster until Lora lost touch with reality.


    She was fucked senseless.


    When she came for the umpteenth time, her legs trembled while in Ryan''s hold. He chuckled and said "You rest, baby... but tomorrow, we


    are not going anywhere. I want to do you the whole day until we drop."

 Chapter 126~ Never been this happy

    "Good morning, Mrs Kingsley," Ryan said in a husky voice, gently nudging Lora so she could wake up.


    "I know I said we won''t go out today, but I want us to have a special breakfast," Ryan said, leaning down to kiss Lora''s forehead.


    "Mmmmm," Lora moaned, stirring from her sleep. "Let''s eatter, babe. I''m so tired."


    "Oh, baby... I know but you have to wake up. I want us to watch the sunrise together and have breakfast. I promise, we will return to bed soon," Ryan replied, stroking Lora''s hair.


    The sun was just beginning to rise, casting a golden glow over the vi. Ryan and Lora were still in bed, wrapped in crisp white sheets. They hadn''t slept until a few hours earlier and that was because they couldn''t keep their hands away from each other. Lora slowly opened her eyes, the beautiful view of the lush tropical paradiseing into her view through the floor-to-ceiling windows.


    She could hear the sound of the waterfall as it blended with the chirping of birds in the distance and the rustling of palm trees swaying in the breeze.


    She wrapped her leg around Ryan''s waist and asked, "Is the sunrise that beautiful?"


    "It is and I want you to see it," Ryan replied. "I want to watch it with you."


    Lora chuckled, thinking Ryan was such a romantic.


    Nodding, she sighed and said, "Since my husband wants to watch the sunrise with me, why should I say no?"


    "Are you saying you can''t say no to me, Mrs Kingsley?" Ryan asked huskily, arching an eyebrow.


    Lora smiled, her heart fluttering at the sound of the name. She responded, "I can''t say no to you, just like you can''t say no to me, Mr Kingsley."


    "That''s right," Ryan remarked, smirking. He pulled Lora closer, pressing a soft kiss to her lips and said, "I have a lot nned for this trip. I want us to never forget the moments we will share here."


    "And we will," Lora stated, looking up into Ryan''s eyes. "It being our honeymoon has already made it special."


    A little whileter, Ryan and Lora were going down the stone path that was carved into the cliffside, hand in hand.


    They had just finished watching the sunrise together and now, Ryan was leading Lora down the cliff to have breakfast near the natural pool at the base of the waterfall.


    Lora''s eyes widened when they reached the base. The sun was high up now, creating a shimmering pattern on the water''s surface where red and white rose petals were floating. Lora gasped at the breathtaking sight, the clear blue waters calling to her.


    On the side of the pool, a wooden table was set up, adorned with a tter of tropical fruits- neatly cut mango, pineapple, papaya and assorted berries. There was also freshly baked bread with a tter of sausages, bacon and eggs. A jug of freshly squeezed juice was resting on a bowl of ice on the side.


    "What time did you prepare this, my love?" Lora asked, her stomach fluttering with butterflies.


    Ryan wrapped an arm around her waist before leading her towards the table, saying, "I had some help. Do you like it?"


    Lora nodded, smiling. "Yes, I do. I love it very much. Thank you, baby."


    She took a seat on the bench and Ryan sat next to her, asking, "Should I feed you?"


    Lora arched an eyebrow. "Are you trying to pamper me?"


    "Yes, you deserve it," Ryan replied before getting a fork and piercing a piece of mango before bringing it to Lora''s lips.


    Lora opened her mouth and took the mango into her mouth. She remarked, "Mmmm, yummy."


    Ryan smiled and began to feed Lora some more, looking at her lovingly as she pointed at what she wanted to eat.


    "You''re so beautiful," he remarked as he fed her a piece of sausage.


    Lora blushed and said shyly, "Aren''t you going to eat?"


    "I''m satisfied with watching you eat," Ryan replied but he picked a piece of bread for himself and took a bite before washing it down with some juice.


    They continued to eat with Ryan feeding Lora and himself. As they ate, Lora couldn''t help but ask, "How are you feeling about Jason being your half-brother?" Ryan furrowed his eyebrows. "I don''t want to talk about unhappy things on our honeymoon, baby."


    "I know, I''m just worried about how you''re taking the news," Lora remarked.


    Ryan sighed, saying, "I don''t know what to feel... I''m shocked. I never expected the man I hated to be my brother."


    Silence fell over them for a few seconds before Lora said, "Let''s take time to process this information. I can''t help but wonder why Jason hid his identity all this while."


    "He must be working with Celeste of course... I can only imagine what they are up to," Ryan replied before scooping Lora into his arms. "Enough of that... let''s focus on us as agreed. How about an early morning swim?"


    Before Lora could tell what was happening, Ryan jumped into the pool, sshing water all around them.


    Lora gasped as the water enveloped her.


    "Ryan!" She scolded him after she broke the surface. "You caught me off guard!"


    Ryan chuckled and dipped his hands into the water before sshing Lora yfully. "AH! Ryan, you''re so going to regret that!" Lora said as she wiped her face.


    She scooped a handful of water and sshed Ryan back, giggling when it hit his face, Soon, the couple engaged in a ssh war, hitting each other''s faces with water as they both tried to evade and ssh at the same time.


    Theirughter echoed through the secluded paradise, mingling with the sound of the waterfall. Ryan suddenly reached Lora and grabbed the back of her head before


    capturing her lips in


    a deep, vel


    passionate kiss.


    Lora melted into him, kissing him back with equal passion, her fingers tangling in his wet hair.Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    When they broke apart, Lora wrapped her arms around Ryan''s neck and stated, "I''ve never been this happy."


    Ryan cupped Lora''s cheek, caressing it lightly as he replied, "Neither have I... thank you for making me the happiest man on earth, Lora."

 Chapter 127~ Warm welcome

    "Wake up, Mrs Kingsley. We are home," Ryan said gently, kissing the crown of Lora''s head while she rested her head on his shoulder.


    The private jet had justnded at the airport in Moonstone City, signalling the end of Ryan and Lora''s honeymoon.


    They had been away for a good two weeks, travelling from one ind to another, creating unforgettable memories. Lora stirred in her sleep before stretching as she replied, "Mmmmm, that was quick. I wanted to sleep some more." "You can sleep when we get home, baby," Ryan remarked before helping Lora unbuckle her seatbelt.


    "Yeah... it feels good to be back home but I''ll miss the heaven we''ve just left," Lora murmured with a pout.


    The past two weeks had been magical. Ryan and Lora had fun, exploring, watching sunrises and sunsets, moonlit swims or just havingzy afternoons in secluded vis.


    It was like they were the only ones who existed in the world... it felt good to spend time together and they made lots and lots of love. But most importantly, they fell deeper in love with each other and grew closer than before.


    "I''ll take you for a vacation very soon... this time we can bring the kids along," Ryan promised, a loving look on his face as he stared at his wife.


    He still felt like he was dreaming and if he was, he never wanted to wake up. This was the life he always wanted.


    ...


    On their way to the mansion, Lora noticed that they weren''t heading towards the Davis mansion. She nced at Ryan and asked, "Don''t we have to get my things first?"


    "Don''t worry, everything was taken care of while we were away. The twins moved into our home too," Ryan replied.


    Lora''s eyes widened as she said, "I had no idea... but thanks for making my work easier. I hate shifting."


    Ryan held Lora''s hand and brought it to his lips before cing a soft kiss on it, saying, "This is thest time you will be moving, my love. We are going to live in our home until death do us part." Lora smiled, resting her head on Ryan''s shoulder. She remarked, "Our home... I love the sound of that."


    The Maybach soon pulled up the driveway to the mansion and Lora saw the twins running out of the doors to greet them.


    As soon as Ryan and Lora stepped out of the car, E and Ethan came sprinting towards them, their faces alight with joy.


    "Mommy, Daddy, you''re back!" E squeaked.


    "We missed you guys," Ethan said as they both hugged their parents.


    Lora and Ryan crouched down to hug the twins at the same time.


    "My babies!" Lora eximed, hugging them tightly. Although she had enjoyed time away with Ryan, she had missed the children very much and was happy to be by their side once again. Ryan spread his arms around his family, his heart feeling full as he said, "We missed you too."


    "Did you bring us anything?" E asked, looking up at Ryan who chuckled as he got to his feet.


    He nced at the driver who nodded and opened the trunk.


    The kids rushed to the car to see what their parents had brought for them.


    "Wow, this is so cool," E remarked when she saw the clothes and toys that had been brought for them. "Thank you so much!"


    "Thank you, Mommy and Daddy," Ethan remarked happily. "We will treasure these gifts forever."


    Ryan and Lora shared a look before smiling at each other. The gifts weren''t expensive or anything, but seeing the smiles on the children''s faces was so worth it.


    "Ok, you two. Let''s go inside, Mommy wants to rest," Ryan said and the twins followed them in.


    The moment they walked through the door, a canon of confetti went off, filling the air with vibrant reds, pinks and blues.


    "Wee home, Mr and Mrs Kingsley!"


    Ryan and Lora were taken aback by the sudden warm wee.


    Bianca and Diane smiled as they came into view. Diane hugged Ryan, while Bianca hugged Lora and whispered, "Look at you! You''re glowing, my friend!" "What''s going on?" Ryan asked, a look of confusion on his face.


    "We decided to give you a wee


    party! You two found each other again in the end. True love has prevailed and we just wanted to do something special for you," Diane exined as she let go of Ryan and putted Lora into a hug.


    Ryan and Lor? shared a look, their heart feeling warm at the sweet gesture. Indeed, despite the obstacles that had tried to destroy their love, they still found their way back to each other... this time, their love was stronger and nothing was going toe between them again.


    Inside the mansion, Lora''s parents, Charles Kingsley, Adan Nicholson and Aiden Davis were in the living room, waiting for the couple with warm smiles.


    When they saw them, they all said in unison, "Wee home, newly-weds!"


    Freya Davis got to her feet and hugged Lora before turning to Ryan and hugged him too as she remarked, "It''s good to have you both back. The kids have been counting down the days." Ryan smiled as he hugged his mother-inw back and replied, "Thank you, Mom."


    The room was filled withughter as everyone listened to Lora and Ryan as they told them stories about their adventures.


    "All I care about is if I''ll be having more great-grandchildren soon," Charles stated. "Ryan, take Lora to the hospital tomorrow and take a pregnancy test."


    Lora''s face flushed pink as everyone chuckled.


    "Grandpa..." Ryan narrowed his eyes. "Don''t pressure us... we still need to enjoy our honeymoon phase."


    "Nonsense! You can still enjoy while having more babies!" Charles argued.


    "Says the man who has one son," Ryan remarked and Charles banged the table with his palm.


    "That''s why I want you to have more children so that the Kingsley family bes bigger!" Charles said. He looked at Lora and uttered, "Don''t listen to him... you can have even ten of them, I''ll support them-"


    "Grandpa!" Ryan groaned.Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    Everyoneughed while Lora blushed profusely.


    They continued to chat about this and that, the atmosphere lively and filled with a harmonious spirit.


    "Ok, enough talking. I''m sure you two are starving," Freya remarked, looking at Ryan and Lora. "Let''s have some lunch!"


    Ethan and E eagerly pulled their parents to the dining area where the table was set with a delicious spread of roasted chicken, fresh sds, mashed potatoes and plenty of beef.


    As they all sat down to eat, Lora couldn''t help but smile to herself.


    This was how life was supposed to be- peaceful and full of happiness.


    ...


    The next day, Ryan arrived at work and attended an emergency meeting arranged by the board members.


    To his surprise, Jason was part of the meeting.


    Ryan frowned and asked, "What are you doing here?"


    Jason smirked and said, "I''m here because I belong here, dear brother. In fact, I''m challenging you for the CEO position."

 Chapter 128~ Ryan vs Jason

    When Ryan arrived at work, his assistant, Lawrence Scott, came to him and reported, "Sir, there''s an emergency meeting. The shareholders were summoned and they are waiting for you."


    Ryan furrowed his eyebrows as he asked, "What''s the meeting about?"


    "I''m not sure... no one is saying anything," Lawrence replied.


    Ryan wondered why the shareholders were suddenly creating trouble after being quiet for many years. It had been a while since they called for an emergency meeting. Usually, this urs when some of the members are unhappy about something. Unease crept into Ryan and settled in his stomach. He had a bad feeling about this but he walked confidently to the conference room.


    However, he stilled when he saw someone he wasn''t expecting to see there.


    Jason. His half-brother.


    Jason Anderson Kingsley was seated at the far end of the long mahogany table, looking smug. He was dressed in a tailored navy suit, leaning back in his chair with a smirk ying on his lips.


    The man looked like he hade to create trouble and he was enjoying it.


    Ryan narrowed his eyes at the young man. Now that he knew who he was, he could finally recall why he felt Jason looked familiar. Unlike Ryan who took after Charles and Miles, Jason took after his mother, Celeste Anderson.


    In Ryan''s mind, Jason had been nning this with his mother for some time. Perhaps dating Lora was part of the n too, luckily that never went far.


    After taking a seat at the head of the table, Ryan''s jaw tightened as he nced at Jason.


    "What are you doing here?" He questioned coldly, his voice calm but firm.


    The board members shared looks, their faces marred with uneasy expressions at the rising tension in the room.


    Jason got to his feet, straightening his tie with a casual air.


    "What am I doing here? Am I not a Kingsley too?" He asked in a mocking tone.


    "Stop ying around and answer the question," Ryan hissed.


    Jason smirked again before answering, "I''m here because I belong here, dear brother. In fact, I''m challenging you for the CEO position."


    Silence fell over the ce, the tension bing so thick that one could cut through it with a knife. The board members exchanged nces, unable to bring themselves to interrupt the two siblings who were suddenly in a power y. After some time, Ryan scoffed and said, "The first thing you do after revealing your identity is wage war on me... what makes you think you''re worth my time?"


    Jason chuckled darkly before


    replying, "I knew you would look


    down on me. You probably underestimate me because you think I have nothing. I''m more than qualified to sit on that seat just like you and I should be given a chance to showcase my skills. Who knows, I can run thepany better than you."


    Anger red through Ryan. Jason was clearly targeting him purposefully and he had no idea what thetter had nned.


    One of the shareholders, Franklin Hall, cleared his throat and said, "Mr Kingsley, I don''t think it''s a bad idea for your young brother to challenge you for the CEO position. He''s the second heir after all-"


    "Who said he''s the second heir? Diane Kingsley is the second born and the only second heir, the others are third and fourth in line," Ryan responded curtly.


    "Miss Kingsley is a woman, Mr Kingsley-"


    "And so?" Ryan questioned, ring at the old man. "Are you saying my sister can''t be the second heir because she''s a woman? Franklin, are you sure you want to be going against me right now?"


    Franklin hesitated, wondering if he


    should be offending Ryan Kingsley. The truth was, he didn''t really have an issue with Ryan. The man had made thepany thrive. However, Celeste had secretly met Franklin and asked for his assistance to make Jason the CEO. She promised to give him some benefits that he couldn''t resist. N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    what


    Clearing his throat, he replied, "Mr Kingsley, what do you mean? I''m just trying to be fair... since we have another, Keir for the Kingsley group, I feel he should be given a chance to run thepany so that we canpare who''s the best man for the job."


    "You can test his skills by using another way... does he have to take over as CEO? That''s an insult to the current CEO," one of Charles'' loyal friends, Rick Campbell, asked.


    The shareholders began to argue among themselves and Ryan watched them silently. He took this time to see who was loyal to him and who was ready to jump camp at the slightest opportunity of promised benefits.


    "We can test Mr Jason Kingsley''s skills by hiring him as the Vice CEO. He doesn''t need to be the CEO," someone said.


    "Well, I think it''s time for new blood. Mr Ryan Kingsley is busy with his new family and I hear he will be going on leave soon. His young brother can act as a temporal CEO," Franklin suggested and Ryan narrowed his eyes at the old man. He had to check who was monitoring his movements. Only those close to him knew he was going on leave.


    "But on what basis should Mr Jason Kingsley be the acting CEO? He didn''t undergo any interviews... he would only take the position if he were a shareholder-" Rick remarked.


    "Who said I''m not a shareholder?" Jason asked, his words catching Ryan''s attention.


    Ryan arched an eyebrow. "Since when are you a shareholder? We haven''t discussed that yet as a family-"


    "Since today," a voice said from the doors before Miles Kinsgley walked into the conference room with a file in his hand.


    Ryan furrowed his eyebrows and asked, "Dad, what do you mean?"


    Miles walked to the table and gave Ryan the file before saying, "Jason is now a major shareholder. I''ve transferred my shares to him."

 Chapter 129~ Bad news

    ##shback to two weeks earlier##


    After leaving Ryan and Lora''s wedding, Miles, Celeste, Isabe and Jason returned to the Kingsley mansion.


    From there, they sat down and Miles took time to learn more about his son.


    "I''m really sorry you had to grow up on your own. I don''t know why your mother acted on her own," Miles said, ncing at Celeste before turning to look at Jason. "I would never abandon my children."


    He was heartbroken to find out about his other son who was left to grow up away from family. His chest felt heavy and he couldn''t shake away the guilt that was creeping into him.


    Celeste chipped in, "Miles, I told you why I kept him a secret. I wasn''t really weed by your father and your two children hated me. They never warmed up to me no matter what I did. Imagine if I had a son too, wouldn''t his life have been a living hell?" Miles sighed as he thought about it. Indeed, back then, Charles was so annoyed about his decision to marry Celeste that he used her of being a gold digger. He somehow understood why Celeste hid their son.


    Charles always favoured Ryan and Diane. However, he had never warmed up to Celeste and Isabe.


    "I would have protected him-"


    "The way you''ve protected Isabe?" Celeste questioned. "She can''t even get a position in thepany and yet everything came easily for Ryan and Diane. My daughter has been treated like an outcast and you did nothing to prevent that." "But we talked about this... Isabe hasn''t gotten any qualifications in line with what the group does, that''s why she can''t get a job there-"


    "You could have arranged for a job that could suit her. You''re the chairman''s son and creating a position would have been easy for you. However, you didn''t even try. It''s like we''ve been sidelined because your father never epted me. I''m just worried that it would be the same for Jason-"


    "Mother, you don''t need to worry. I can take care of myself like I''ve always done," Jason replied calmly. "We don''t need to ask for anything from the Kingsleys. I grew up well without their help."


    Jason looked at Miles and said, "Father, you don''t need to stress yourself. I only came back because I missed my family. I was tired of staying hidden. If my presence will ruin Ryan''s life, then we could all pretend that I don''t exist."


    Guilt crept into Miles at those words. His stomach kept twisting and turning. Ryan had everything ever since he was born but what about Jason? Miles couldn''t even imagine how much he suffered being raised by other people. Looking at Jason, he promised, "You know what? I''m going to give you my shares!"


    Celeste gasped and eximed, "Miles, are you serious?!"


    Miles nodded, a smile crossing his lips. "I am. I just found out I have another son, what better way to wee him home than to give him shares in the group?"


    He sighed and said to Jason, "With my shares, you will be able to make decisions in thepany. Don''t worry, whatever you decide to do, I will support you. I''ll make up for the lost years."


    "Wow! Dad, that''s so generous of you. What about me?" Isabe asked.


    "You already have shares, my dear," Miles responded.


    "But those are too little. I can''t even sit on the board," Isabe pouted.


    Miles was about to reply when Celeste gave her daughter a look and stated, "Let''s not give your grandfather another reason to hate us. I''m satisfied with your brother being on the board. He will be sessful and perhaps he will be better than his brother. All he needs is a chance and you''ve given it to him, Miles. Thank you."


    "He''s my son too and he deserves to sit at the board members'' table too like his brother," Miles remarked, nodding slightly.


    He was very happy to know that he had another son and giving him all he had was the only way he could make up for lost time.N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    ##End of shback.##


    Two weekster...


    Milespleted the transfer of shares and went to the conference room where the board members were having an emergency meeting.


    He knew Jason had decided topete with Ryan for the CEO position and although Miles didn''t want his children to fight, his guilt towards Jason made him support whatever he wanted to do.


    When he entered the room, he walked towards the table and announced, "Jason is now a major shareholder. I''ve transferred my shares to him."


    The air in the room turned cold as Miles Kingsley''s words echoed in the conference room.


    Dead silence fell upon the ce as the board members stared between Ryan and Jason, wondering what was happening.


    Was Miles openly supporting his other son?


    Ryan clenched his hands into fists as he nced at his father with a stoic look.


    "Why?" Ryan asked, his voice low andced with anger. "Are you also hoping he takes over my CEO position?"


    Miles looked at Ryan and said, "I gave him my shares because he''s also my son and he deserves to be part of our group. As for the CEO position, I think it''s ok that your brother wants to try it out.


    Ryan''s jaw tightened. He flipped the file open, scanning the documents. Sure enough, Jason was now the thirdrgest shareholder of the Kingsley group since Miles had given him all of his shares.


    A pang of pain shot through Ryan''s heart. When his grandfather chose him to take over as CEO, Miles didn''t support him this way. In fact, this caused the father and son to be at odds since Miles wasn''t given a chance to run thepany.


    Ryan scoffed, cing the file on the table before getting to his feet. He remarked coldly, "I don''t care what game you''re ying, but thispany will never belong to someone who just popped out of nowhere. I''m not going to give up may position or my wife. I hope that''s clear."


    With those words, Ryan strode out of the conference room.


    Lawrence immediately followed him, asking, "Do you think they will drop this matter?"


    "They can''t do anything without my grandfather''s approval. He still remains the biggest shareholder of the Kingsley group," Ryan replied, pulling at his tie in frustration. Seeing Jason today irritated him. This was because he knew this was not just about thepany. The man was trying to create trouble for him because Lora rejected him. "But what if they get more shareholders on their side? They would gain more votes-"


    "Don''t worry about that. The ones with the most shares are on our side," Ryan said confidently as he entered his office.


    "If you say so..." Lawrence replied. He stopped at the door and paused, looking like there was something on his mind. Ryan arched an eyebrow and asked, "What is it?"


    Lawrence hesitated before replying, "Doctor Steve called when you were in the meeting, Sir."


    Ryan nodded. He said, "I guess it''s time for me to go on leave for treatment-"


    "I''m afraid there''s bad news, Sir," Lawrence reported.


    Ryan raised his head sharply and asked, "What bad news?"


    "There won''t be any treatment, Sir," Lawrence answered. "The donor is missing."

 Chapter 130~ Avoiding her

    "Mommy, why is Daddy not home yet?" E asked as they had dinner. "I thought we would eat together now that we are aplete family." They had been waiting for Ryan for close to an hour but he hadn''t shown up, so they proceeded to eat without him.


    Lora pursed her lips, looking at her watch. Ryan had promised to always be home for dinner, so she was wondering where he was.


    She had tried to call him but her calls went unanswered.


    ''Is he ok?'' Lora asked herself, worry creeping into her.


    However, she didn''t show it on her face and smiled at the kids before saying, "I heard there was an emergency meeting earlier today... your father is caught up with work. He will be here soon." "E, Daddy runs a bigpany, so he''s a busy man. Don''t worry, he will join us for dinner tomorrow," Ethan told E.


    E nodded and smiled, "Ok... I can wait till tomorrow."


    After dinner, Lora tried to call Ryan again, however, her call was redirected to voicemail.N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    She furrowed her eyebrows, wondering what could have happened.


    When she heard about how Miles had given Jason his shares, she wanted to visit Ryan tofort him, but she suddenly received VIP clients and couldn''t find some free time in her schedule. Lora thought she would talk to Ryan after work but he was nowhere to be seen.


    ''Could he be drinking somewhere?'' She mused.


    Dialling a number, she let out a sigh of relief when the call went through.


    "Adan, have you seen Ryan today? Please tell me you''re with him... I''m worried," Lora asked on the phone.


    "Mmmmm, I''m not with him... but let me try to look for him," Adan offered before cutting his phone.


    Lora bit her lower lip, her stomach twisting and turning. She didn''t know why but she couldn''t shake off the feeling that something was wrong.


    A few minutester, Adan called back and Lora quickly answered.


    "Have you found him?" She asked anxiously.


    There was silence for a few seconds before Adan replied, "No, I haven''t but I can''t get a hold of his assistant either. Perhaps they are in an intense meeting after what happened earlier today... don''t worry, he will be home soon." When Adan cut the call, Lora became restless. She stayed upte and ended up sleeping while waiting for Ryan to return.


    The next day, she opened her eyes and found herself nicely tucked in bed. She turned to look at the side and found that it was empty.


    cing her hand on the bed, she realised that it was still warm, signalling that Ryan had returned home. But where was he?


    After showering, she went downstairs and found the kids at the dining table. A full spread of breakfast was set on the table.


    "Mommy, good morning! Daddy just left... but he told us to make sure you eat your breakfast," E remarked, her words making Lora frown. Ryan left without talking to her? That was strange.


    Was something wrong?


    She took out her phone and sent out a message to Ryan.


    Lora: [Are you ok, love? I was expecting to see you before going to work.]


    A response came almost immediately.


    Ryan: [I''m fine, baby. I didn''t want to disturb you since you were sleeping so soundly. I love you.]


    Lora smiled, relief washing over her as she replied.


    Lora: [I''ll see youter. I love you too.]


    A little whileter, Lora''s security team escorted her to work. When she arrived, she found Jason waiting for her in thepany lobby.


    "What are you doing here?" Lora questioned, a frown stering her face.


    A flicker of hurt shed through Jason''s eyes. He approached Lora and asked, "Are we enemies now?"


    "I don''t know, Jason, are we? Why are you creating trouble for Ryan?" Lora remarked with a questioning look on her face.


    "Trouble? I''m just trying to im what should equally belong to me," Jason replied through gritted teeth.


    "By calling for an emergency meeting?" Lora asked, arching an eyebrow.


    "Yeah... I want to fight for what is mine. Maybe then, you can see how much I love you," Jason stated. "What does Ryan have that I don''t have?"


    Lora furrowed her eyebrows. She


    nced at Jason and said, "I''m


    sorry, Jason. I know I hurt you... but t


    love Ryan. I always have. It''s not about what he has and what you don''t My heart chose him. That''s all


    Jason nodded and clenched his hands into fists. He chuckled and replied, "I guess it was a bad idea to see you this morning."


    He turned to leave but paused and


    said, "Are you sure Ryan is being honest with you? If I were you, wouldn''t trust him. He hurt you once, what makes you think he won''t do it again?"


    "He won''t," Lora dered. "I trust him, no matter what."


    Jason scoffed and walked away, leaving Lora standing in the lobby.


    She sighed, biting her lower lip. Things were gettingplicated. It seemed Jason was targeting Ryan for revenge and it was all her fault for leading him on.


    ...


    The same thing happened that night. Ryan didn''te home early for dinner.


    Lora nced at her watch, her eyebrows meeting as several thoughts reeled in her mind.


    After putting the kids to bed, she tried Ryan''s phone but it went unanswered. She then tried Adan''s phone.


    "Hi, Adan. Have you still not heard anything about Ryan?" Lora asked, her heart stuck in her throat.


    "Yes, I did but don''t know what to


    make of it. Ryan never showed up at work today, His assistant missed


    work too." Adan replied on the phone. "I don''t know what''s going on. He''s not picking up my calls either."


    Lora''s heart pounded in her chest, a sense of foreboding creeping into her.


    What was going on? Why did it feel like Ryan was avoiding her?

 Chapter 131~ Hiding something

    "Uncle, help me look for my husband," Lora asked Aiden Davis when she walked into his office.


    Aiden arched an eyebrow. He hadn''t been expecting his niece, but seeing her look so anxious made him worried. "Don''t tell me he''s already cheating on you," he said.


    "No, Uncle... Ryan would never," Lora stated, pacing back and forth in the office. "I haven''t seen him in two days. I have a bad feeling about this. He''s avoiding me and I feel like something serious has happened. I need to find him and talk to him." "Perhaps he just wants time to sort himself out..." Aiden remarked. "He wille to you when he''s ready-"


    "And when would that be? What if I go crazy from being anxious and worried? I need to talk to him and find out what the problem is... he''s my partner," Lora remarked, her stomach twisting and turning. "How can I ignore my husband when he''s not acting like himself?" Just like the other night, Ryan returned home veryte the previous night. He slept next to Lora and left before she could wake up after preparing the children for school.


    Lora didn''t get a chance to ask him why he was behaving so strangely. She had to find out what was going on with Ryan. This was why she gave her uncle a visit to hispany.


    "So, you want me to trace his phone to find out where he is? Or do you want me to find out what he''s been up to?" Aiden asked.


    "I want to know where he is right now... I went to hispany and he''s not there," Lora replied, the lump in her throat refusing to go down.


    Aiden nodded before typing away on his keyboard, the soft clicks filling the silence in the office. Lora waited with bated breath, her heart racing at a thousand miles per second. After some time, Aiden frowned and said, "He looks like he''s all over the ce. Perhaps he''s really busy because he keeps moving from town to town."


    Lora frowned.


    Was she overthinking?


    "Why don''t you wait for him to be done with whatever he''s working on?" Aiden suggested. "I''m sure it''s pretty serious for him toe homete and leave early."


    Lora bit her lower lip before replying, "I know... it''s just that, I have a bad feeling about this."


    "Well, if he can move around like that, it means he''s ok... don''t worry," Aiden remarked.


    Lora nced at her uncle, hoping he was right.N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    She didn''t want to assume things but Ryan was really acting strange. And although she trusted him, she couldn''t shake off the feeling that he was hiding something and purposely avoiding her.


    "I guess I just have to wait... I''ll wait for him if heeste again tonight," Lora said and left after thanking Aiden for the help.


    She went back to thepany and spent the day working on some designs, attending meetings and forming new partnerships.


    When it was time to knock off, Lora left the building and paused when she walked out of the doors and saw a striking figure before her.


    Ryan, her husband, was standing outside in front of a sleek ck car with a bouquet of red and gold roses in his hands.


    He looked at her lovingly before saying, "Hi, baby. I''m sorry for being off thest two days-"


    Before Ryan could finish his sentence, Lora rushed towards him and flung her arms around his neck, hugging him tightly.


    "Oh, thank goodness you''re ok," she uttered, relief washing over her. "I was so worried about you. I missed you... never, ever do that again."


    Ryan hugged Lora back, lifting her


    off the ground briefly. He kissed the side of her neck and remarked, " was wrong... I''m sorry, my love. I missed you too... so very much. You have no idea."  en


    When Lora pulled back to look at Ryan, the light in her eyes faded when she saw the sad look in his eyes.


    "What''s wrong?" She asked, worry twisting and turning her stomach. "Did something happen, Ryan?"


    Ryan forced a smile. He reached up and cupped Lora''s cheek, brushing her skin gently.


    "I need to tell you something," he said softly. "Let''s go for dinner."


    A little whileter, Lora and Ryan were settled in a private room at a fancy restaurant. They ordered their food and although they did try to eat, they couldn''t finish their meal.


    en


    Lora was anxious about what Ryan wanted to talk about and Ryan looked like he had lost his entire world.


    "Ryan, can you tell me what''s going on?" Lora requested. "I hate being kept in the dark."


    Ryan nced at Lora before quickly averting his gaze.


    Lora frowned. Was that guilt that she saw in Ryan''s eyes? Why would he be guilty? Did he do something wrong?


    "I''m going crazy with worry, Ryan. Please tell me..." Lora appealed, her voice low andced with concern.


    Ryan sighed heavily. He looked at Lora again and said, "I hid something from you... I thought I had it under control but the tables have changed now." Lora''s heart sank. "What do you mean? What are you hiding from me?"


    "I was going to tell you soon... I


    swear, I just needed to have my n


    work and then I would tell you everything. I didn''t expect it not to work out-"


    "Ryan, tell me what''s going on," Lora said, her throat feeling parched from worry.


    Ryan gulped, pain shing through his eyes as he uttered in a low voice, "I may not be able to keep my promise to grow old with you."


    Lora''s heart sank to the pits of her stomach.


    She leaned over the table, her heart pounding hard in her chest as she asked, "What does that mean? Are you break-"


    "I only have a few months to live, Lora. I''m so sorry."

 Chapter 132~ His secret

    Lora''s eyes rounded at Ryan, her heart sinking to her feet.


    "W-what do you mean by that?" She asked in a shaky voice. "Are you sick?"


    Ryan gulped, a guilty look crossing his face as he answered, "Unfortunately, yes, I am. Before I knew you were alive, I was diagnosed with myelodysstic syndrome. It''s a rare blood disorder- it''s a disease that''s eating away at my ability to produce healthy blood cells-" "Wait," Lora interrupted, her face turning pale. "Are you saying you''ve been sick all this while and you didn''t think of telling me?"


    "I..." Ryan trailed, not knowing what to say. "I didn''t want to burden you with my problems, Lora. I honestly thought I was going to get cured. We had found a donor for the stem cells. I would have told you before doing the transnt but... I received a call from my doctor two days ago that the donor was missing."


    ##shback to two days ago.##


    Ryan sat in the oncologist, Doctor Steve''s office, feeling dejected after hearing the news of the missing donor.


    "So, how long do I have? Is there really nothing else that can be done?" Ryan asked, his voice hoarse.


    Doctor Steve sighed, looking at Ryan before answering, "Unfortunately, you had refused to start the treatment when we found this disease. It''s toote now... at most, you have a few months to live if you''re lucky. But that''s just an estimation, you can die on any day without warning. Your MDS is high-risk and the only solution is an allogeneic stem cell transnt."


    Ryan was quiet as he listened to the Doctor, but his heart was not with him. Why did things turn out like this? Just when he took his family back, he found out he couldn''t be with them forever like he had promised.


    If only he had started treatment when he was first diagnosed... however, at that time, he was filled with guilt and regret about Lora''s supposed death that he thought his illness was a punishment for his failure to protect her.


    When he found out she was alive, he informed his doctor to find a way to treat him and they quickly found a donor although it took some time to find a match.


    "We only found one person who was your match. But with that person missing, there''s little I can do to save you, Ryan," the doctor said.


    Ryan''s heart sank. He was dying... what exnation would he give to Lora now? That he had promised to grow old with her only to leave her after a few months?


    Leaving the doctor''s office, Ryan nced at Lawrence and instructed, "We have to find the donor and find out why she''s gone off the grid."


    "Perhaps she had a change of mind," Lawrence replied. "We can''t force her if she has second thoughts."


    "I know," Ryan said and clenched his hands into fists. "I don''t have enough time, so I need to find her and try to persuade her once more... my life is in her hands. I can''t afford to leave my family."


    That was how Ryan and Lawrence


    spent thest two days searching for the donor. They traced her phones and went to the locations where she wasst seen, however, no matter how much they searched or how much money they pumped into the search, they couldn''t find


    her.


    It was like she had vanished from the face of the earth.


    Ultimately, Ryan had to ept his fate ande clean to his wife. The only option he had was to spend his remaining time with his family as much as possible if Lora would let him. He feared she would hate him after finding out his secret.


    ##End of shback##


    Ryan nced into Lora''s blurry eyes


    and gave her a small humorless


    smile as he said, "I thought I had it


    under control... I thought all was in ce would get treated and we


    could finally grow old together. I


    guess I was wrong."


    I


    He looked away to blink away his tears as he continued, "I''m so sorry... I didn''t mean to promise you a future, only to leave you and the kids all over again."


    "Why?" Lora''s teary voice reached Ryan''s ears and he turned to look at her, his heart clenching with guilt.


    "Why didn''t you say anything? What made you think you could go through this alone? Have you told any of your family about your illness?" Lora questioned as tears rolled down her cheeks like a broken dam. "How could you do this to me? Did you think I would leave you if I knew you were sick?"


    Ryan lowered his eyes, his stomach churning.


    "No... you''ve got it wrong. I was confident there was no need to worry since everything was under control-"


    "Why have you waited this long to get treated?" Lora asked. "You''re a rich man who can afford to fly in donors and doctors, why did you wait until now? Unless..."N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    Her eyes widened when realisation hit her. "Don''t tell me you put off your treatment because you actually wanted to die?"


    When Ryan was silent, Lora''s heart broke.


    "Was it because you thought I was dead?" She quizzed. "Don''t lie to me, Ryan. Enough of the lies and the secrets!"


    Ryan gulped, his heart aching. He looked at Lora before reaching for her hands. He said, "Yes, I did think it was my punishment and decided to not do anything about it. But when I found out you were alive, I asked my doctor to help me out and that''s how we found a donor. I''m sorry, I didn''t want to worry you... I was going to tell you before going for treatment but I can''t be cured now."


    Silence fell over them and Ryan added, "I''ll understand if you don''t want anything to do with me... you don''t have to hit rock bottom with me."

 Chapter 133~ For better, for worse

    Lora froze, her hands which Ryan was holding trembling in his hold.


    The restaurant was warm but the warmth did nothing to defrost the icy reality that had just beenid bare. A chill ran down her spine, making her blood run cold. Was Ryan really dying?


    She stared at him, her lips parting but no words came out of her mouth.


    Her mind was spinning with several thoughts. A thousand emotions rushed into her at once- anger and devastation.


    "Lora-"


    "Ryan... how could you think like that?" She managed to whisper although her voice was shaking. "Why would you throw away your life like it was nothing?" "Back then, my life was nothing without you in it," Ryan admitted. "Everything felt meaningless. I was consumed by guilt and regret. I had to make it right somehow. Although my death couldn''t bring you back, I knew I would join you and make it up to you in the afterlife." "Make it up to me?" Lora repeated, her voice rising and raw with emotion. "Did you ever sit to think if I would have wanted you to do that? That was a selfish decision, Ryan. I never asked for your life. You did it for yourself, to make yourself feel better." Ryan looked at Lora and admitted, "Yes, my love. I was selfish. I was drowning in pain and didn''t think about the consequences. I didn''t know I had children then but I should have done everything in my power to get better for myself and those who love me. I shouldn''t have given up on myself like that. Luckily, I found out you were alive and it gave me hope. I wanted to live again- with you and our children. I thought I could fix everything... that I could get better and grow old with you like I promised. Now..." "Now what?" Lora questioned, pain flickering through her eyes. "Are you saying you won''t be able to keep your promise?"


    "There''s no future for us... I''ll just drag you down," Ryan responded in a low voice.


    Lora''s tears flowed freely, her anger still bubbling up within her. "Why do you think you get to decide if we have a future or not? Ryan, I''m your wife, what makes you think you can shut me out and let me watch as you fade away?" Ryan closed his eyes, the pain in his heart doubling with each second. He remarked, "I''m sorry, Lora. Nothing can be done about my situation... the donor is gone and without-"


    "No, Ryan," Lora stated, looking into his eyes. "I''m not giving up on you. There has to be another way... we can search for another donor. I''ll also get tested to see if I''m a match. You''re my husband and I''ll do all I can to make sure you get better. We can''t resign ourselves to fate."


    As she said this, she couldn''t help but recall how Ryan mostly looked exhausted. His pale skin, the bags under his eyes. How could she not notice that he was sick?N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    Was he going to undergo such a painful process alone and pretend like nothing was wrong?


    Her stomach churned at the thought.


    At the same time, Ryan nced at Lora, his heart feeling warm at her words.


    He reached over and wiped her tears before saying, "I don''t deserve you, my love. You''re so kind-hearted. However I''ve tried all I can... it was hard to find a match and now that my time is running out, my chances are slim. But I will continue searching for a solution.., I do all I can to survive."


    "It''s not over until it''s over, Ryan... we can beat this And I''ll stand by your side. Have you forgotten the vows we exchanged? For better, for worse, in sickness and in health. I''m annoyed that you hid this from me but won''t waste time dwelling on it, after all, we may not have enough time," Lora said after sniffing back her tears.


    Ryan smiled before pulling out some documents as he said, "This is a file for the transfer of my shares and property-"


    "What are you doing?" Lora asked, frowning. "I''m not going to ept that because you''re going to survive this, Ryan."


    "It''s for the kids..." Ryan said.


    "Then you better give it to them yourself when they are older," Lora remarked. "I''m not giving up on you. And just so you know, I would hit rock bottom with you in a heartbeat, knowing we would rise up together again." Tears rolled down Ryan''s cheeks as he uttered, "I... don''t know what to say."


    "You don''t have to say anything. We shall find another donor and I''ll stand by you every step of the way We are one... just like I would want you to stay with me when I''m sick, or when I''m at my best, that''s the same way t expect you to want me to stay te by your side in good or in bad times. Don''t push me away- we are family."


    Ryan got to his feet and walked around the table. He pulled Lora up and embraced her, holding her tightly.


    "I swear, I''ll try my best to get better. I won''t give up so easily... not when I have such a loving wife by my side," he remarked, his voice hoarse.


    Lora smiled and hugged Ryan back. She replied, "We will get through this together... But, I want you to tell your family. This is not something you keep from the people who love you."


    ""I will-"


    "Let''s tell them now... I''ll also ask my Uncle if he can help us with looking for a donor. He has some doctor friends overseas," Lora suggested.


    Ryan nodded, hugging her tighter. "I''ll do whatever you want, baby."


    "Good," Lora replied.


    However, Ryan suddenly went limp in her arms and her heart jumped to her throat.


    "Ryan?!"

 Chapter 134~ Medical tests

    "Doctor Steve, how''s my husband?" Lora asked anxiously, her eyes falling on Ryan who was lying on the bed in the VIP ward.


    "Don''t worry, Mrs Kingsley. He''s alright, he just had a brief fainting episode since he hasn''t had enough rest in thest forty-eight hours," Doctor Steve replied. "You did well to bring him here though... it could have been serious." Relief washed over Lora at the doctor''s words and she let out a breath she didn''t know she was holding.


    When Ryan lost consciousness in the restaurant, Lora called her security team for help to take him to the hospital. The moment they arrived, he was rushed to the ER and Lawrence informed Doctor Steve who came over to attend to Ryan. After a series of tests, Ryan was transferred to a VIP ward to be monitored.


    "Thank you so much for the quick response, Doctor," Lora replied. "But, why isn''t he waking up if he''s ok?"


    "That''s because he''s sleeping," the doctor said.


    "What?" Lora''s eyes widened. She asked, "Are you sure, Doctor? He had passed out in my arms... how''s that sleeping?"Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    "He must have been stressed, now that he had talked to you about his situation, he must have felt relieved. Right now, your husband is in deep sleep," Doctor Steve affirmed. "He will wake up soon."


    "Does that mean he cane home with me when he wakes up?" Lora asked hopefully.


    Doctor Steve nodded, saying, "Yes, he can. But I need to emphasise, Mrs Kingsley, that your husband''s condition is critical. His blood counts are dangerously low and without treatment, his health will continue to deteriorate quickly."


    Lora swallowed hard, her stomach churning with fear and nerves. She nced at the doctor and remarked, "I''m aware... we will do all we can to find a donor."


    Earlier while Ryan was in the ER, Lora had called her Uncle to ask if he could use his connections to look for a donor. She also asked him to look for the donor who had suddenly disappeared. Something felt off, why would someone who had already agreed to donate go missing without an exnation?


    "That''s great... the hospital will keep looking as well. But I hope you stay by his side in this tough period, he might not say it but he needs physical and emotional support," the doctor advised.


    "I''ll never leave him, Doctor," Lora replied. She turned to look at Ryan who was sleeping peacefully on the bed and a small smile crossed her lips.


    "I would like a test to check if I can donate my stem cells to him," Lora suggested.


    "Normally, family members are the ones who are likely to be a match. But we can check with you too," the doctor said, looking impressed. "You''re such a good wife. Mr Kingsley is lucky to have you."


    "Thank you for the kind words. Ryan''s family will be here tomorrow for the tests. I''ll make sure of it," Lora said. She was sure they wouldn''t sit and watch Ryan die. Together, they would look for a solution for him to survive. "Great, you cane with me," the doctor requested and led Lora to the examination room.


    From there, he took out some blood cells from Lora''s hip to test if she was a match for Ryan''s stem cells.


    When he was done, he uttered, "The results will be out in a week. If you''re a match, you would have to undergo other tests to check if you''re healthy enough to donate-"


    "Why don''t you do those tests now? Let''s save time and do everything at once," Lora suggested.


    The doctor nodded and replied, "That''s a good idea... so that if you''re a match, we won''t waste time trying to check if you can donate your stem cells to your husband. We can proceed with the treatment right away." Thus, Lora underwent a series of medical tests. She also left her urine and blood samples at theb.


    When she returned to the ward, Ryan opened his eyes and looked at her.


    "You''re awake?" She asked, her eyes gleaming with joy.


    "Mrs Kingsley, where were you?" Ryan asked, a smile crossing his lips. "I was hoping to see you when I opened my eyes but you were nowhere to be seen. I missed you."


    "I went to have a test to see if I can donate my stem cells to you," Lora replied as she approached Ryan and lowered herself to give him a kiss on the lips. "I missed you more.  en


    Ryan''s eyes widened. "Baby, you''re-"


    Q.UMS


    "If I''m a match, I will donate... I hope you won''t try to stop me," Lora remarked, smiling at Ryan.


    Ryan sat up and grabbed Lora''s hand, saying, "I''m just lost for words... I kept it a secret from you and here you are doing everything you can to help me." "Let''s not think about spilt milk," Lora uttered. "But, I want you to promise me something."


    "Anything," Ryan replied, squeezing Lora''s hand.


    Lora looked into his eyes and said, "No more secrets."


    Ryan pulled Lora close and wrapped his arms around her, saying, "I promise. No more secrets."


    Lora nodded as she hugged him back. "That''s good... don''t ever think you''re a burden. You''re my husband, the father of my children and my everything."


    They stayed like that for some time, simply inhaling each other''s scents and enjoying the warmth that spread between them. Even though they didn''t know what the future held, being there for each other every step


    of the way was all that mattered.


    "I want to be with you, Ryan... whether it''s for a few hours, a day, or ten years, I want to spend my time with you," Lora remarked.


    Ryan cupped her cheeks and pulled back slightly to kiss her deeply. His heart felt so full... He was grateful for Lora''s love and he silently prayed for a miracle.


    When they pulled back, Lora looked at Ryan and said, "We need to go to the Kingsley mansion now. Your family has to know."


    Ryan sighed. "Grandpa has a heart condition-"


    "He still has to know, Ryan. Think about how he would feel if you kept this to yourself," Lora reasoned.


    Ryan nodded reluctantly and replied, "Ok... Let''s go and tell them."


    Meanwhile, in another part of town, a woman walked into the Williams'' residence.


    David Williams, Ivy Williams'' father''s eyes rounded when he saw her. He arched his eyebrows and asked, "What are you doing here?"


    The woman smiled and said, "How about we join forces to finish Ryan Kingsley once and for all? Let me help you avenge your daughter."

 Chapter 135~ Telling family

    David Williams was confused when his security told him that a woman was there to see him. He wasn''t expecting anyone at that time, so he wondered who it could be.


    When he allowed them to let her through, his eyes widened when he saw none other than Celeste Anderson Kingsley, Miles Kingsley''s wife.


    He was shocked to see her at his house. They hadn''t met in private for so many years now after a certain incident.


    David sighed, gesturing for her to take a seat across from him in his study.


    "What makes you think it''s going to work this time?" David asked, looking at Celeste. "Ryan isn''t easy to defeat."


    Celeste smirked. She crossed her legs and said, "By tomorrow, something will happen that will give us an opportunity to get rid of the Kingsley group. I want you to buy into the group but my son should be made the CEO once it bes yours." David''s eyes widened again. He had a question mark on his face as he uttered, "What do you mean? Do you know how much the Kingsley Group is worth? Where do you expect me to get that much money?"


    Celesteughed. She looked at David and replied, "David, I''m not stupid. I know you can''t manage to buy into the Kingsley group with your current wealth."


    "So then, why-"


    "Like I said, something will happen tomorrow that will enable you to buy into the group," Celeste stated. "Aren''t you aggrieved that your daughter was pushed into a corner by Ryan Kingsley and his wife? This is your time to get revenge." Hatred shed through David''s eyes. Indeed, he had been upset that his daughter was now a fugitive of thew. Ivy was used to being his little princess. But now, she had to live under a different identity and forever be in hiding.


    He clenched his hands into fists as he responded, "I''ll make him pay for what he did to my daughter."


    Celeste smirked as she remarked, "It''s a deal then. We are going to destroy the Kingsleys."


    David suddenly frowned. He looked at Celeste and asked, "Why do you want me to buy into the Kingsley group? Why not just take it for yourself?"


    "Do you think I would have that chance? I thought marrying Miles would make me the richest woman in this city," Celeste said and gnashed her teeth. "But the fool can''t even be the chairman of the group. He has no power... I need plenty of money to buy into the group and I don''t have that much money... not even the shares that Miles had are enough to get the upper hand."


    David squinted his eyes as a n formed in his mind. He didn''t have enough cash in hand but he would if he sold some of his properties. Even though it was very risky, it would be worth it if he owned the Kingsley group.


    "I''m going to work with you onest time and this time, we have to seed," David stated.


    Celeste nodded and replied, "I have a n. This time, Ryan will be crushed."


    ...


    Meanwhile, Ryan and Lora arrived at the Kingsley mansion at the same time as Diane Kingsley.


    Diane looked at them and asked, "What do you want to talk to us about? You sounded serious on the phone, so I had to stop what I was doing toe over."


    Ryan nced at his sister and replied, "I''ll tell you together with everyone."


    Diane studied her brother, hoping to guess what he wanted to say. However, she couldn''t figure it out and just followed them inside the mansion.


    Charles and Miles were already seated in the living room when Ryan, Lora and Diane joined them.


    When they were all settled, Ryan looked at his wife and she gave him an encouraging nod.


    He took in a deep breath and looked at his family before clearing his throat.


    "I''m here to tell you something important," Ryan said with difficulty, a lump forming in his throat.


    Lora reached forward and held his hand, squeezing it lightly to give him some courage. "What is it, Ryan?" Charles asked worriedly.


    Ryan took another deep breath


    et Yel


    before he began, "I''ve been hiding something from all of you and


    before I say what it is, I would like to say how deeply sorry I am."N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    He paused, his hands trembling but Lora squeezed his hand tighter to assure him that she was by his side.


    Ryan looked at his wife for a bit


    before continuing, "A year ago, I was


    diagnosed with myelodysstic syndrome, It''s a rare type of blood cancer and it has progressed to a high-risk stage. The only stem cell donor I found has gone missing and without treatment, I may only have a few months to live."


    Diane gasped and mped a hand over her mouth as her eyes watered with tears.


    "What?" Charles'' voice was shaky. "Y-you have cancer?"


    "Sadly, yes," Ryan said and dead silence fell upon the ce as the weight of Ryan''s words sank into them.


    "Oh my God! Ryan... Is that why you


    said you were going on leave?" Diane asked as tears rolled down her cheeks. "I should have known something was up with you. What are we going to do now? I don''t want to lose you, bro."


    "Are you joking?" Charles asked, his lips trembling. "Is this a prank?"


    Sadness crept into Ryan''s heart. He looked at his grandfather and answered, "No, Grandpa. It''s true. I don''t have much time left."


    "No... no... it can''t be," Charles mumbled to himself. He blinked and tears streamed down his wrinkled cheeks. "My grandson can''t be sick."


    At the same time, Miles Kingsley was frozen in shock. He opened his mouth to speak but no words came out.


    After a few seconds, he looked at his son and asked, "Why didn''t you tell us sooner?"


    "I have no excuse," Ryan replied, guilt creeping into him. "Dad, Grandpa and Diane, I''m so sorry."


    The ce was filled with a somber mood as everyone tried to digest Ryan''s words.


    Suddenly, Miles let out a frustrated groan as he cried out, "So, my son is sick, and I had no idea? What kind of father am I?"

 Chapter 136~ A hug

    Miles Kingsley gulped and buried his face in his hands as he struggled to suppress his frustration and guilt.


    He reflected on how he had lived his life so far.


    How did he end up being distant from his son?


    When Ryan''s mother was alive, they used to live as one happy family. Ryan was free and always talked to him about anything.


    What led to them being this far apart and yet, they were father and son?


    After hearing the news of Ryan''s illness, Miles regretted a lot of things.


    He should have spent more time with Ryan. Even when he be rebellious, he shouldn''t have ignored him thinking he was just being a spoilt brat.


    Perhaps if he did that, Ryan would have felt safe to tell him about his diagnosis.


    "I''m so sorry, Ryan," Miles said, his voice hoarse as tears streamed down his cheeks. "You must have hated me all this while. Instead of being your father, I spent the rest of the time finding faults in you."


    Ryan''s heart clenched when he saw how his father reacted to the news. He said, "No, I''m the one who''s sorry, Dad. I shouldn''t have kept it to myself."


    "Perhaps you kept it to yourself because you didn''t have faith in me as your father," Miles replied and looked up, his eyes red. "Forgive me, son. You''re my precious son and I love you... I shouldn''t have acted like you were my enemy. And now... I might lose you. No parent should outlive their children. If I could trade this illness with you, I would do it in a heartbeat. Why did it have to be you? It should have been me... I''ve done nothing in this life as your father-"


    "Dad, don''t say that. You may have made some mistakes along the way but you''re still my father and I love you very much. I wouldn''t ask for another father... I wanted to fix things between us earlier but I didn''t find the right time. It seems my illness has acted as the bridge to fix our rtionship," Ryan remarked, his eyes blurring with tears.


    "Son..." Miles sobbed and got to his feet, spreading his arms wide. "Come, give your old man a hug."


    "What?" Ryan''s eyes widened. "I''m not five, Dad."


    Lora nudged Ryan in the side lightly with her elbow. She signalled to him with her eyes, telling him to hug his father.


    Ryan sighed but he got up anyway. He approached Miles and the two shared a heartfelt hug.


    Miles patted Ryan''s back and said, "My son. My precious son. I''m sorry for being a horrible father. I hate that it took you to be sick for me to realise this. But I promise to be a better father to you and Diane from now on."


    "I missed you, Dad," Ryan uttered, his sobs bing audible.


    Lora who was watching couldn''t help but cry with them. It was an emotional scene.


    Miles nced at Diane and stretched his hand toward her, saying, "Come, my princess."


    Diane rushed forward and joined the hug. They stayed like that for a while, crying andforting each other.


    On the side, Lora and Charles shared a look before smiling slightly. Charles especially was proud of his son, Miles Kingsley, for finally fixing his rtionship with his children.


    When the father and children broke away from the hug, they settled in their seats once again.


    Although the atmosphere was still somber because of the bad news about Ryan, it felt like this was the beginning of them bing a united family.


    Charles Kingsley cleared his throat as he sat back heavily on the one-seat couch. His trembling hands clutched the arms of his seat as his gaze lingered on his grandson.


    For the first time in decades, the strong head of the Kingsley family looked defeated.


    "Ryan," he began, his voice shaky from crying. I''m sorry you had to go through the weight of your illness alone. But don''t worry, we are here for you. We are your family. As a family, we fight battles together as one don''t care what the doctors


    say- we''ll fight this together and find a solution." Content Belongs to Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    "Grandpa," Ryan croaked, his eyes filling up with tears again.


    "No more crying... this is not the end," Charles remarked, sniffing back his tears. "We will find a way for you to survive this."


    Ryan lowered his head, trying to fight back his tears. Seeing his family look so sad made him so emotional.


    Diane wiped her tears and said, "That''s right. Let''s not cry... Ryan, you''re going to survive this. We can search for another donor internationally or try experimental treatments. There has to be something that can be done!"


    "That''s right! Money is not an issue


    ife


    for the Kingsleys. We can use our resources as the Kingsley family to search for a new donor... that is if none of our cells match with yours, Ryan, Miles said with a firm voice. "First thing tomorrow morning, we will all go to test if our bone marrow matches Ryan''s."


    "Yes, we will explore every option!" Diane stated.


    Ryan''s heart swelled with emotion when he saw how worried his family was. If he died that day, at least he would leave knowing he was truly loved.


    He looked at them and said, "I''ve


    already started the search for a new donor and Lora has even undergone testing to see if she''s a match... know should be hopeful but I don''t want to give you false hope. bet''s be ready for anything-"


    "We will cross that bridge when we get there," Diane intercepted. "We are not giving up and neither are you. It doesn''t matter if the odds are slim, we are going to fight together until the very end." Charles nodded, saying, "I''ll bring in the best doctors and specialists! We are going to defeat this illness, no matter what!"


    "Yes, my son! Together, we can beat this cancer!" Miles added.


    Lora and Ryan shared a look before smiling.


    "See, I told you," Lora remarked. "We are family and we are all in this together. You''re not alone, Mr Kingsley."


    Ryan wrapped an arm around Lora and hugged her before he said, "What would I do without you? I''m so blessed."


    ...


    The next day, everyone went to the hospital to test if they were eligible to donate stem cells to Ryan. However, Celeste, Jason and Isabe were nowhere to be seen.


    Charles nced at Miles and asked, "Didn''t you tell Celeste? This is important. Where is she?"


    Miles sighed as he looked around before answering, "I did... maybe she''s runningte."


    "No, she''s not!" Diane said and showed her phone screen to Miles. "That witch is having an interview to tell the whole world how her stepson has cancer! The Kingsley Group stocks are dropping... rapidly."

 Chapter 137~ Selfish woman

    Celeste Anderson Kingsley hid a smirk as cameras shed before her taking pictures and videos of her.


    It was the myelodysstic syndromes world awareness day and she volunteered to be interviewed as a parent whose son was suffering from the rare disease.


    The host nced at her and remarked, "Mrs Kingsley, I must apud you for doing this. I''m sure it''s not easy."


    Celeste wiped a fake tear from the corner of her eyes and sniffed before saying, "It''s not easy toe out in the open and talk about this. However, today, I want to use my family''s story to encourage someone who''s going through the same situation."


    The host nodded. She nced down at her script and asked, "So, you mentioned your son has cancer and has only a few months left to live, which one among your two sons has this illness and how are you coping as a family?"


    Celeste nced at the camera, the look on her face sad as she announced, "It''s with deep sadness that I announce that Ryan Kingsley, the current CEO of the Kingsley group, has a rare blood cancer. We''ve tried all we can as a family, but sadly, nothing worked. His time is now limited and we might lose him at any time."


    She mped a hand over her mouth and let out a few sobs. "I''m sorry, I promised myself not to cry, but I can''t help myself. My heart breaks for Ryan, he''s still so young and his children still need him."


    The host''s eyes widened. She took some tissue and passed it to Celeste as she uttered, "I''m so sorry to hear that. This is so sad for Ryan Kingsley."


    Celeste nodded as she wiped her non-existent tears, saying, "It''s really sad for us as a family. But we are going to be there for Ryan in hisst days. Family should stick together in these trying times."


    "That''s right," the host remarked. "It''s good to know that despite being wealthy, your family sticks together and supports each other during difficult times."


    Celeste nced at the cameras and said, "Ryan, if you''re watching this, know that me and the rest of our family will stand by you until the very end. You''re not alone in this."


    As the interview continued, Celeste wore an internal smug smile. She knew that the interview had already gone viral and the Kingsley Group''s stock price had already started plummeting.


    Celeste had been waiting for this moment when she could push Ryan into a corner. When she married Miles, she wanted to get rid of his two children, however, Charles was always watching her moves like a hawk, so she couldn''t do anything to them.


    When she gave birth to twins, she sent Jason away while she pretended to be nice to gain Miles'' trust. Even though Charles never epted her, he had let down his guard against her. Thus, she was able to sneak away frequently and n her next move.


    Her n was to make Jason the CEO of the Kingsley Group and to get rid of Ryan and Diane. However, it was hard to find an opportunity until one day, she followed Ryan to see if she could find some dirt on him, and that was when she saw him visit another hospital instead of the one affiliated with the Kingsley Group.


    She became suspicious and after bribing someone at the hospital, Celeste discovered Ryan''s secret.


    With this vital information, Celeste


    waitely until it was the right


    time to bring it out to the public. In his condition, Ryan wouldn''t have the strength to fight back and the shareholders would force him to step down once the stocks drop.


    Celeste was determined to kick Ryan out once and for all.


    ...


    Meanwhile, at the hospital, Miles'' face darkened when he watched the interview on Diane''s phone.


    "Why would Celeste do this?" He asked, anger ring through him. "She knows the impact that this news will have on thepany-"


    "Miles,e on! When are you going to wake up?" Charles eximed. "She''s clearly exploiting our pain for her own gain. She must be up to something since she went as far as causing a scandal that will drop thepany''s stock price."


    Diane clenched her hands into fists as she said, "I knew she was a snake. But how dare she lie to the world, making it look like she''s been there for him? We all just found outst night! She''s stooped too low this time."


    "I''ll handle it," Miles remarked, looking at Ryan and Lora apologetically. "I''m sorry, son. I think giving Jason my shares made Celeste grow bigheaded."


    Ryan shook his head and replied,


    "It''s not your fault, Dad. That woman


    is twisted. And Jason is your son, too. I understand how you would want to give him your all. I would do the same. But something about this is fishy. If Celeste just wants to use this opportunity to make Jason the CEO, why would she do something that would make thepany vulnerable?"


    "That''s because she''s a selfish woman who can do anything to get her ws on thepany. It doesn''t matter to her what state thepany is in as long as her goal is reached," Diane spat.


    Ryan shook his head again, saying, "That''s not it. We need to stay vignt and be prepared for the worst. I have a feeling Celeste is going to give us another surprise soon."


    "Whatever the case, don''t worry about it," Charles remarked. "Your job is to rx and rest as we wait for the results. Your father and I will deal with this situation."


    Looking at Miles, he instructed, "Call an emergency board meeting. We need to reassure the shareholders and stabilize thepany."


    "I''ll help too. I''ve been away for too long, it''s time I took my position as the managing director back," Diane stated. "We need to make sure Ryan is not stressed during this period."


    Ryan nced at his family as theyCopyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    discussed how to handle the situation and a small smile crossed his lips. He turned to look at Lora and said, "I never thought this was possible... seeing Grandpa, Dad and Diane getting along brings peace to my soul."


    Lora squeezed his hand and responded, "That''s what love can do."

 Chapter 138~ The results

    Later in the evening at the Kingsley mansion.


    Miles narrowed his eyes at Celeste as she walked into their room.


    It had been a long day of trying to convince the shareholders that thepany wasn''t going to go bankrupt after the news of Ryan''s illness was exposed.


    Although he and Charles had a hard time, they still managed to convince the board for the time being.


    However, the stock price kept dropping with some of their partners pulling out of the deal, worrying about the future of the projects if the leader of the group wasn''t going to live long.


    "Why did you do that? Did you think Jason would be CEO if you exposed Ryan''s illness?" Miles questioned, anger flickering through his eyes.


    Celeste''s smile froze, "Miles, honey, what do you mean?"


    "Drop the act, Celeste," Miles snapped. "Have you been pretending to be nice all this time? How dare you expose our family secret like that knowing what impact it would have on thepany? How dare you use my son''s illness to get what you want for yours?" Celeste''s expression hardened but she kept her voice soft as she replied, "Darling, why would you think I used Ryan''s illness to get what I want? I only wanted to raise awareness and show the world how strong our family is during this difficult time. And what do you mean by my son? Isn''t Jason your son too?"


    "He is my son! That''s why I gave him my shares! So that he wouldn''t feel left out. But what did you do? You went behind my back after I told you about Ryan and announced his illness to the whole world. Now that thepany is in chaos, are you happy?" Miles said angrily.


    "I used to think you were a kind-hearted woman, but now I think it was my wishful thinking. All that you''ve ever cared about is my family''s wealth. And because of you, I never got to spend much time with my other children!" "What about Jason? He grew up alone-"


    "And whose fault is that, Celeste? Did I ask you to send him away? No... your greed made you do that. You wanted to keep him a secret so that you could use him in the future just like you''re doing," Miles hissed.


    He pointed a finger at Celeste and warned her, "Listen, Celeste, I don''t care what your ns are, but leave all my children out of it. Don''t manipte or coax any of them into doing your bidding. If I find out, you will be sorry." Celeste dropped her act and red at Miles as she said, "Ryan is already dying but instead of securing Jason''s position, here you are warning me about useless things. I''m going to make sure my son sits in that position, Miles. Watch me." With those words, Celeste left the room, leaving Miles speechless. He shook his head, a look of regret on his face.


    What happened to the sweet, considerate woman he had been married to all these years?


    Had he been so blind to see Celeste for who she really was?


    ...


    Social media was still aze with the news of Ryan''s illness and no matter how much they tried to pull the news down, more articles kept popping up about the issue.


    Days came and went and soon, a week had passed.


    The crisis caused so manypanies to pull out of their partnerships with the Kingsley Group, giving it a huge financial burden that went beyond what thepany could take.


    Despite all this, the Kingsley family and the Davis family gathered at the hospital to get the results of the tests they had done to check if any of them were a match.


    After the Kingsleys did their tests, Lora informed her family and they volunteered to check if their stem cells were a match too.


    Ryan''s eyes stung with gratitude as he looked around at everyone in the VIP lounge. He cleared his throat and said, "Thank you so much for doing this for me. No words can describe how grateful I am." Jack Davis nced at Ryan and said, "We are a family, of course, we need to stand by each other in such difficult times."


    Everyone else agreed with that statement, looking at Ryan with warm smiles on their faces.


    "I think the hardest part would be telling the twins I wouldn''t be able to live long-"N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    "You won''t have to tell them that, Ryan. I have faith that at least one of us will be a match," Freya Davis interrupted Ryan.


    Lora looked at her husband, she held


    his hand and uttered, "Don''t worry about such things yet. We have to try harder before we get to that conclusion. And we will never get to that conclusion because we are going to find a match for you today."


    "Good morning, everyone."


    The lounge fell silent when the Doctor''s voice echoed in the area. All eyes turned to him in anticipation.


    "The results are ready," Doctor Steve announced, waving the file in his hand.


    "What did they say, Doctor? Is any of us a match? You can tell us the results, we are all family here," Miles asked, his voiceced with worry.


    The doctor sighed and the atmosphere suddenly turned somber. They could see from the look on the doctor''s face that he didn''t bring good news.


    "We did find three potential matches for Mr Kingsley. However, none of the three can donate their stem cells," Doctor Steve reported.


    Lora''s heart jumped to her throat. Her voice shook as she asked, "Who are those and why can''t they donate?"


    "The first two are Diane Kingsley and Miles Kingsley. However, the requirement for a donor is that they should be in good health. Miss and Mr Kingsley, both of you seem to have a heart condition. Although it''s dormant, we can''t take that risk-"


    "I don''t care what happens to me! I''m willing to donate my stem cells to save my son''s life," Miles offered. "Please, Doctor."


    Doctor Steve shook his head and replied, "I''m sorry but that''s against my work ethic. As for the third match, it was Mrs Lora Kingsley-"


    Gasps echoed around the lounge as everyone nced at Lora whose eyes gleamed with joy.


    "Doctor, I had a check-up months ago, I''m perfectly healthy. I can donate my stem cells to my husband," Lora remarked. "There must have been a mistake."


    However, Doctor Steve shook his


    ??? I


    head and responded, "Unfortunately, even though you are perfectly healthy, after doing a blood and urine test with your samples, we discovered you can''t donate your stem cells in your condition"


    "What condition?" Lora asked, looking confused.


    Doctor Steve smiled and said, "I know these are difficult times and perhaps good news might cheer you up. Mrs Kingsley, you are..."

 Chapter 139~ Heartbeats

    Doctor Steve paused, hesitating. He looked at Ryan and Lora before asking, "Should I tell you the news here or you want to hear it in private?"


    Lora and Ryan shared a look and when Lora gave him a small nod in acknowledgement, Ryan nced at the doctor and said, "Like Dad said, we are family. You can say the news in front of everyone." "What''s the good news, Doctor?" Charles asked. His lips suddenly curled into a grin. "Is it what I think it is?"


    All eyes were glued to the doctor as they waited for the news.


    Doctor Steve cleared his throat and announced, "Mrs Kingsley, you are pregnant. Congrattions!"


    Dead silence fell upon the ce for a few seconds before Charles eximed, "Yes! Another great-grandchild! Well done, Ryan!"


    Ryan hugged Lora, his heart thundering in his chest as he stated, "Lora... this is wonderful news! I love you so much!"


    The rest of the family showed their excitement and congratted the couple. When they were done, Ryan looked at Lora whose eyes were blurred with tears and smiled at her.


    Now that the initial joy had passed, he thought about their predicament and what it would mean for Lora to have a child in theing months.


    Was he going to make her a single mother again? Guilt crept into him at the thought.


    "We are going to have another child," he remarked, sadness creeping into him. Would he be able to live long enough to meet his third child?


    He was thrilled to find out that Lora was pregnant but knowing he had limited time made his heart ache. Ryan was worried that he might not be there when their third child is born.


    "Hey," Lora said, cupping Ryan''s face. "I know right now it seems like all hope is lost but I think our baby will bring us the miracle we''ve been praying for."


    Ryan nodded. He grabbed Lora''s hand from his face and ced a soft kiss on the back of her hand as he remarked, "You''re right. The twins and our new baby need me, I don''t intend to die anytime soon."


    The couple were given space to have a little moment before Doctor Steve uttered, "I think we have a high chance of finding another donor. Since it''s already in the open, how about we start a campaign to look for a donor, Mr Kingsley?"


    Diane chipped in, "That''s a great idea. There''s nothing that social media can''t do nowadays. We can put up posts to look for volunteers. Of course, we will add a reward as a thank-you token. It can actually work!"


    The family agreed about their next course of action in looking for a matching donor for Ryan.


    When they were done, Charles proimed, "Now it''s time to check the baby''s gender. Let''s go to the obstetrics department!"


    Lora, "...."


    Ryan, "...."


    "Grandpa, it''s too early to know the gender of the baby," Lora exined.


    Charles frowned. He then shook his head and replied, "It''s fine. We can have an ultrasound to check if the baby is ok."N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    A little whileter, the two Davis and Kingsley families were gathered in an ultrasound examination room.


    Everyone was there, so it was a little crowded.


    Lora was lying on a bed ahead with the lower part of her body starting from the chest hidden by a blue curtain to cover her up during the procedure.


    Ryan was standing next to her on


    one side of the bed and the doctor was on the other. The families were on the side near the doctor where they could see the screen clearly.


    en


    IMS


    The OB-GYN doctor looked at the crowd and said, "I don''t usually have such a crowd when dealing with clients."


    "Well, you have one today. Doctor, can you get down to business?" Charles stated. "I want to see my great-grandchildren. "


    The doctor nced at Lora''s t stomach and wondered how the old man was expecting to see his grandchildren when there was no baby bump. However, he didn''t dare voice his question and began the procedure.


    Everyone''s eyes were glued to the screen excitedly.


    "This reminds me of when Ethan and E were still in Lora''s womb," Freya remarked, a warm smile on her face. I can still remember how I felt when I first saw them when escorted Lora to her first ultrasound."


    "We might have missed that experience but this time, we are there for Lora," Miles responded.


    The doctor cleared his throat to call for attention. When everyone looked at him, he pointed at the screen and said, "I can see two gestational sacs-"


    "Oh my god! Another set of twins!" Freya eximed, her eyes widening at the screen.


    Gasps of excitement echoed around the examination room and the doctor agreed.


    "That''s right..." he looked at Lora and Ryan before saying, "Congrattions, you''re having twins."


    Ryan felt like time stopped for a moment. His eyes were glued on the screen and even though he could only see two small circles, his heart was filled with love.


    The doctor suddenly increased the volume of the equipment, letting everybody hear two thumping sounds.


    Ryan dropped a tear as he asked, "Are those the babies'' heartbeats?"


    The doctor smiled and responded, "Yes, Mr Kingsley. There are two healthy heartbeats. The babies are developing well."


    Ryan broke down, tears soaking his face as he listened to the sound.


    It was the sound of life. Two lives.


    He and Lora had made two human beings again.


    Looking at his wife, he leaned down and kissed her forehead as he said, "Thank you, my love. You''ve made me the happiest man on earth."


    "I don''t know whether I should be


    happy or sad," Lora remarked. She really hoped she could donate her stem cells to Ryan, however, since she was pregnant, she wasn''t allowed to.  en


    Ryan grabbed her hand and squeezed it, saying, "I want us to be happy. I''m happy and thankful for this double blessing. I promise I won''t give up on myself."


    He ced a hand on Lora''s stomach and added, "These babies have given me hope that miracles do happen."

 Chapter 140~ A drink

    Ryan and Lora arrived at their mansion, excited to tell their children the news.


    "Mommy, Daddy, you''re back!" As usual, the twins rushed to their parents for a hug.


    "We have some good news to share with you," Ryan said as he picked up E who wrapped her arms around his neck.


    "Really? What''s the good news?" E excitedly asked. "Are we going on a vacation?"


    Ryan chuckled as he held Ethan''s hand with his free hand and led him to the living room before settling on the couch with the twins nking his sides.


    Lora followed and sat on the other side of Ethan. She reached over and booped E''s nose, saying, "No silly."


    A thought urred to Ryan and he looked down at the twins and asked, "Do you want to go on a vacation with Mommy and Daddy?"


    "Yes! We want to... you went the two of youst time. So this time, we should go as a family," E replied and Ryan nodded.


    "No problem. We can go on a trip this weekend," he promised. He didn''t know the future. But what he was sure of was the present and he was going to make sure every second counts.


    "Yay! A family trip with Mommy and Daddy! Finally!" E said and got down from her seat, running somewhere quickly before returning with a piece of paper.


    She showed it to her parents and said, "Look, I already drew us on a family trip."


    Ryan took the paper and saw that E had drawn two tall figures, two short ones and one that looked like a round cat with a small head.


    "Wow, nice, E. Is this a cat? Do you want a cat?" Ryan asked, pointing at the round image.


    Eughed and answered, "No, Daddy. You''re so silly. This is our baby sister."


    "Oh..." Ryan replied, his eyes stinging with tears. Looking at the drawing, his heart clenched with pain. He wanted so much to live long and take care of his family.


    He held back his tears and nced at E before saying, "This is beautiful, princess, but you need to add another baby."


    Lora smiled and chipped in, "That''s right. You two are going to be a big brother and sister."


    Ethan and E''s mouths fell open at the same time.


    E squeaked, "Are you giving us a baby sister soon?"


    "I would love a baby brother. Girls are noisy," Ethan remarked and the parents chuckled.


    "Who knows? You might have a baby sister and brother because we are having two babies!" Ryan said excitedly and the twins'' eyes rounded at them.


    "Are they twins?" Ethan asked after a moment of stunned silence.


    Lora smiled sweetly and confirmed, "Yes, just like you two."


    E''s jaw dropped. She eximed, "There will be two babies? Where are they going to sleep? I only have space for one."


    "This mansion has many rooms, dummy," Ethan replied to his sister.


    Ryan and Lora shared a look beforeughing lightly.


    Ryan looked at E and said, "We have many rooms but it wouldn''t be bad for you and your brother to share your bed with your siblings. After all, sharing is caring."


    "I don''t mind sharing my bed with them," E remarked. "Can I change their diapers?"


    "We shall see about that," Lora remarked with a chuckle.


    "I''m going to be a great big sister! Ethan will be a great big brother too! Like he is to me!" E dered.


    The room felt warm, filled with love andughter as Ryan and Lora listened to the kids discuss the arrival of their siblings.


    ...


    Meanwhile, after leaving the hospital, Diane drove back to her apartment. Just as she parked her car, another car parked beside her and she saw that it was being driven by Aiden. They both got out of the car and looked at each other.


    "I didn''t know you wereing home from the hospital," Aiden remarked.


    "Yeah, I also thought I would go and drown myself in drinks," Diane said. "But, I think I would rather be home tonight. Everything is depressing. I wanted to stay with my brother, but I think he''s better off with his wife and kids." They had spent some time at the hospital and before they knew it, night had fallen. After bidding farewell to Lora and Ryan, everyone dispersed and went to their respective homes.


    "I think it''s not good for you to drink since you have a heart condition," Aiden advised.


    Diane rolled her eyes and sighed, saying, "You don''t know how much it hurts knowing I had the ability to help my brother but I can''t because apparently I''m not healthy. I just wanted a drink to help me forget the pain."


    Silence fell upon them and they walked towards the apartment building quietly. It was a somewhat chilly night and the dark sky was twinkling with a billion stars.


    "I don''t know how you feel but I''m sorry," Aiden suddenly said as they got into the elevator.


    "Why are you sorry?" Diane asked in a low voice. "It''s not your fault."


    "I''m sorry that you''re feeling sad... I wish I could do something to help. My contacts are trying their best to find a donor, I hope we hear good news soon. Ryan is strong, he can pull through this," Aiden replied, Comfortingly.


    Diane sighed heavily, looking up at the changing numbers in the elevator as they went up several floors.


    "I pray so... I don''t know what I would do if I lost my brother," Diane said, blinking hard to avoid shedding tears.


    The elevator came to a stop with a ding sound and they both walked out of it before walking towards their respective doors.


    As they keyed in the passcodes to


    their doors, Diane nced at Aiden and offered, "Would you like toe in for a drink? I still feel like drinking and since you think I shouldn''t drink, maybe you should monitor how much I drink."


    Aiden let out a low chuckle. He closed the door to his apartment and shoved his hands into his pockets before approaching Diane, saying, "I would love to."


    And just like that, Diane invited Aiden into her apartment.


    From there, the two shared a bottle of wine while chatting about this and that.


    At first, it was a little bit awkward since this was the first time Aiden went into Diane''s house. Despite being neighbours, they had never been in each other''s space that way.


    A few sses more and the atmosphere was morefortable for the both of them.


    Diane suddenly looked at Aiden and pointed a finger at him, saying, "You still haven''t apologised for being a pervert that one time on the ne."


    Aiden chuckled. He arched an eyebrow and proimed, "I was never a pervert."N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    "Yes, you were!" Diane eximed. "You touched my ass on the ne."


    "No, I didn''t. I told you, you were obstructing me and I was just trying to push you out of the way. I had no idea I had grabbed your... your, ahem Aiden cleared his throat the tips of his ears turning pink as he recalled the memory.

 Chapter 141~ Come to me

    ##shback to weeks ago###


    Aiden didn''t want his brother to know that he was travelling back, so he didn''t use his family''s private jet. Instead, he boarded one of the airlines that was avable that day.


    The seats in first ss were decent, but not as good as the Davis family''s private jet.


    He satfortably in the reclining plush leather seat, absorbed in his handheld gaming console when suddenly, a huge bag struck him, jerking him forward.


    ""What the-"


    Aiden turned and found ady trying to wedge her oversized bag into the overheadpartment. Her long dark silky hair flowed beautifully on her back and she was dressed in a pair of blue jeans, a ck blouse and ck sneakers. He frowned when he noticed her wrangling with the bag but he didn''t have time to offer help since his game had just gotten good.


    Aiden returned his attention to his game, ignoring thedy entirely.


    Meanwhile, Diane grunted softly, pushing with all her might. ''Howe thesepartments felt so small?''


    Diane had missed her flight and ended up using an airline that she wasn''t familiar with. This one was a bit different from the luxurious flights she usually took.


    She continued to force the bag in, unaware that the back of her bag kept smacking into the man seated in the other seat.


    At the same time, Aiden was almost winning his game when the bag hit him on the shoulder and in trying to quickly push it away in order to concentrate on his game, his hand shot up andnded squarely on Diane''s ass. Diane let out a gasp, whipping her head around, her eyes zing with anger as she spat, "What the fuck? Did you just grab my ass?"


    Aiden froze when he felt the softness of what he was grabbing. He turned to look and found himself grabbing Diane''s butt.


    His eyes widened and he quickly let go like he had touched hot coal.


    "My apologies. I was aiming for your bag," he exined helplessly.


    Diane put her bag down and turned to fully face Aiden, saying, "Are you kidding me? Couldn''t you tell the difference between a bag and my ass? Or maybe you just wanted a feel? You''re such a pervert!"


    Aiden looked ufortable as the other first-ss passengers started peering over their newspapers and tablets to see what was going on.


    He lowered his voice and remarked, "I didn''t do it intentionally. Your bag kept attacking me. Should I have left it to bruise me instead?"


    "My bag was attacking you?" Diane scoffed. "Sir, it''s embarrassing for such a handsome young man like you to be a pervert."


    "I''m not a pervert!" Aiden objected. "You were shoving your damned bag into my face!"


    "So you decided to grab my ass-"


    "I''m sorry, ok? It was an ident. Can you please let it slide," Aiden asked, his voice low. He didn''t want to find his face on social media the next day with a long article about him being a pervert. So even though he wasn''t a pervert, he had to be the bigger person and apologise.


    ##End of shback##


    Aiden shook his head and said, "Actually, I did apologise for something that I didn''t intentionally do."


    Diane chuckled, her eyes falling on Aiden''s for a moment.


    "I guess I did misunderstand you. You''re not a pervert at all," She remarked, a small smile crossing her lips.


    A thought suddenly urred to her. She looked at Aiden and asked, "So, you know about my embarrassing past... I think it''s only fair that I know about yours as well. Are you dating? Or got an ex that you can''t forget? What''s your dirtiest secret?


    Aidenughed, his dimplesing into full disy, making Diane gulp as she stared at him in awe. How could he be so handsome? He looked like a Kdrama Oppa. Unaware of Diane''s thoughts, Aiden swirled the contents of his ss and downed it before saying with a sense of mystery, "Trust me... you don''t wanna know."


    ...


    The next day, Lora knocked off from work when she found Jason waiting for her outside the building with a bouquet of roses.


    She furrowed her eyebrows and asked him, "What are you doing?"


    Jason smiled. Ignoring Lora''s obvious hostility, he approached her and said, "I just came to see you."


    "With flowers?" Lora arched an eyebrow. "Please don''t do this, Jason. You''re just going to end up being hurt all over again."


    "I don''t mind. I want to try my best and if I fail, I''ll know that it just couldn''t work out," Jason replied.


    "Jason, it won''t work out. Whether you steal Ryan''s position, or you collude with your mother to expose his illness-"


    "I didn''t know about that," Jason intercepted. "I also just found out when my mother did the interview."


    Lora studied Jason''s face and saw that he was being sincere. She sighed and asked, "So, what are you doing here when you know what my family is going through?" "I''m here to fight for you, Lora. Come to me... I promise to always be there for you. I love you-"


    "I''m with Ryan now. And I love him, Jason. Please understand," Lora said in frustration.


    Silence fell upon them for a few seconds. Jason looked into Lora''s eyes and said, "But Ryan doesn''t have long to live-"


    A p to the face tilted Jason''s face to the side and Lora massaged her palm which stung from the sharp p she gave him.


    She red at him and spat, "When the truth came out, I thought you were different from your mother. I thought she was manipting you, but I guess I was wrong."


    "Jason, do you even know what


    you''re doing? Ryan is your brother, does he have to be your enemy? He may not have long to live, but wish to stay by his side until he takes hisst breath."


    "Lora... I... I didn''t mean to-"N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    "You see this ring?" Lora said, raising


    her left hand to show Jason her


    wedding ring. She continued, "This is proof of the vows I made when remarried Ryan. I don''t care if he''s


    disabled, has two days to live or if he bes poor, he''s my husband and he will be until the very end."


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 142~ Stamina

    Jason lowered his eyes to hide his pain.


    He gulped, trying to swallow the lump that was stuck in his throat.


    Ever since he met Lora, he thought she was the one for him. He thought he could finally have someone by his side.


    Jason had lived a lonely life abroad. He could count on one hand the number of times his mother went to see him as a child.


    He was usually alone on his birthdays and had no one to celebrate special holidays with. It was like he was an orphan when both his parents were alive.


    Whenever he asked his mother when he coulde home, she always told him it wasn''t the right time.


    "Your father''s other family won''t be happy if youe now. Be good and stay where you are," she would say.


    In the end, Jason grew up alone. He thought he was used to being alone until he met Lora and her children. She made him realise that he wanted a family of his own.


    However, it seemed his dream to be with Lora would nevere true. Seeing the way she stayed by Ryan''s side despite his illness, only a woman deeply in love could stick to someone like that even though she knew that there was no future for them. Lora''s words still echoed in Jason''s ears and each word sent a sharp pang of pain into his heart.


    Was he doomed to be unlucky in love?


    Looking at Lora, Jason forced a smile and said, "I guess this is a bad time to ask you toe to me. That was so insensitive of me. I''ll wait for you, Lora. No matter how much it takes." "Jaso-"


    Jason turned and walked away before Lora could voice her response.


    He didn''t want to hear another rejection. It was clear to him that even if Ryan didn''t exist, Lora wouldn''t have fallen in love with him.


    Still, Jason wasn''t ready to give up just yet. Perhaps one day Lora would fall in love with him and ept him into her life again.


    Meanwhile, Lora pursed her lips into a thin line as she watched Jason drive away. She let out a sigh, guilt creeping into her.


    If only she hadn''t tried to date Jason, he wouldn''t be in denial. She only hoped he would meet a woman who loved him genuinely.


    A little whileter, Lora went home and found Ryan in their bedroom. He was in a white robe and his hair was wet, showing that he had just taken a shower.


    His wet hair fell over his forehead, giving him a hot look.


    Ryan shed Lora a smile and sat down on the bed before patting the space beside him, saying, "Come here."


    Lora blushed, wondering what Ryan was up to. Was he trying to get some in his condition?


    Despite her thoughts, she followed Ryan and climbed on the bed, sleeping next to him.


    "How was your day? You look like you''re in a bad mood," Ryan remarked, his eyes studying her face.


    Lora sighed, recalling her encounter with Jason She looked at her


    .n


    husband and revealed, "I met Jason. He seems to be struggling with moving on. I''m sorry, my love. Km the reason he''s trying to ruin you at thepany." Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!


    Ryan furrowed his eyebrows and replied, "Don''t say that. If anything, this entire mess is my fault. If I had treasured you like I was supposed to, you wouldn''t have left and you wouldn''t have met Jason. Perhaps you would have met him as a happily married woman and he wouldn''t have fallen in love with you."


    Lora bit her lower lip. "I still shouldn''t have agreed to date him. Deep down I knew it wouldn''t work out but I went ahead anyway-" "Shhh, don''t think about the past, honey. I don''t want you to have any regrets," Ryan said.


    He suddenly began to unbutton Lora''s shirt and slipped a hand inside to grab her breast, squeezing it gently.


    Lora arched an eyebrow before scolding, "Ryan, you know we can''t do that. You need to preserve your strength as much as possible."


    "Oh, my strength is ok, baby. Are you worried about my stamina? I can stillst long," Ryan replied as he sensually caressed Lora''s breast. Lora felt her core clench and she bit her lip to suppress a moan. She grabbed Ryan''s hand and remarked, "You know that''s not what I mean."


    "I know, baby. But this is all I need to give me the strength my body requires," Ryan said seductively, lowering himself to kiss Lora passionately on the lips.


    He climbed on top of her and parted her legs with his knees, all the while his hands unbuttoned her shirt and caressed her all over. Pleasure rushed through Lora. She let out a low moan and asked, "Is this ok? I mean I don''t want to hurt you or something."


    Ryan smirked as he raised Lora''s legs to take off her pants and panties. He threw them behind him and said "It''s very much ok... is it wrong for me to eat my favorite food? asked Doctor Steve and he said it''s ok as long as I have the strength to do it."


    With those words, he buried his face in between Lora''s legs and began to passionately eat her out.


    Lora forgot all about her sour mood and opened her legs wider for easy ess. Her eyes rolled to the back of her head when Ryan''s talented tongue hit the right spot.


    "Oh yes, Ryan... that''s it!" She moaned, her toes curling as ripples of pleasure red through her.


    It didn''t take long for Lora to reach her climax. She twisted her hand in Ryan''s hair and rode his face like tomorrow would nevere.


    As a strong wave of orgasm hit her, she rounded her eyes and made an O shape with her mouth, her body trembling as electric currents flowed through her effortlessly.


    Ryan licked her core and flicked her bean until she rode out her orgasm. When she was calm, he hovered over her before iming her lips in a fiery kiss. Pulling back, he nced at her and asked, "Feeling better?"


    Lora nodded, her face glowing.


    "I feel ecstatic," she replied.


    "Good," Ryan replied as he lifted her left leg and impaled her with his cock, all the way to the hilt. He groaned and said, "Fuck, I love you."


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    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 143~ Fishing

    "Daddy, are we there yet?" E asked, looking out the window at the tall trees surrounding them.


    It was dayster and the family had gone on a family trip. They first travelled by air to an ind and then, they got in a car and Ryan was driving them to a ce where they would get on a boat to arrive at their destination. Ryan chuckled after E asked for the umpteenth time. He looked at her through the rearview mirror and said, "We will be there soon, Princess."


    "Yay! I can''t wait!" E remarked and pointed at something outside the window, "Look, Ethan, I just saw a monkey!"


    "That''s not a monkey, silly. It''s a honey bear," Ethan corrected his sister.


    E''s eyes widened. She pressed her face against the window and replied, "Really? It''s so cute"


    Ryan chuckled, ncing at Lora in the passenger seat. "It''s nice to see the kids so happy and carefree."


    Lora smiled softly, reaching for Ryan''s hand and squeezing it before saying, "That''s because we are all together as a family."


    The car ride was filled withughter, Ethan and E looking out the window in awe as they watched the beautiful scenery.


    They could make out mountains in the distance and the trees along the road gave the ce an aesthetic look. It was a warm day with clear blue skies- a perfect day to make a trip.


    When they arrived, they parked their car at the parking station and then took a little walk towards the river where they would get on a small boat to transport them to the hotel.


    Ryan and Lora helped the children wear life jackets before putting on life jackets themselves. They then got on the boat and started off. On their way, Ryan took pictures of the scenery and asked the guide to get a picture of him and his family. "Are we there yet?" E asked again as she looked around. They werepletely surrounded by trees as the boat surged ahead.


    "Not yet... we will be there soon," Ryan answered patiently, a smile ying on his lips.


    A little whileter, they got off the boat and began to cross a shaky wooden bridge. It was a bit scary for the kids so Ryan and Lora carried them across. But they stopped in the middle to take a few pictures and watch the water flow beneath them. "Wow, Mommy, it''s so beautiful!" E eximed, looking down at the water waves.


    The family stood for a while, enjoying the scenery before finally crossing the bridge and heading towards the tented luxury suites where they would spend the night.


    "Wow, it''s like camping," Ethan remarked. "So cool!"Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    "Babe, how did you find this ce?" Lora asked as she looked around. Each suite had its own balcony extending over the river with rxing chairs to the view of the beautiful river and the animals roaming around the nearby river banks. The tented suites were linked by a raised wooden walkway, making them look like they were floating in the riverine environment.


    "Well, I searched on the inte and found this hidden ce. Since you love nature, I thought this would be the best ce for a family gateway," Ryan replied as they were ushered into their tented suite.


    Ryan then nced at Ethan and said, "Hey, buddy. Would you like to go fishing with me? Let''s catch some fish for supper."


    Ethan''s eyes sparkled with interest. He nodded and replied, "I would love to, Daddy."


    "Since you boys are going to be busy, E and I are going to have some girl time," Lora said and E jumped around excitedly.


    A little whileter, Ryan stood at the edge of the dock, a fishing rod in hand. He nced at Ethan who was holding his own child-sized road and smiled warmly.


    "Ok, son. Today, I''m going to teach you how to fish and the first thing you need to know is, when ites to fishing, all you need to do is have patience."


    "Patience?" Ethan frowned. "I wanna catch a fish now."


    Ryan chuckled and replied, "Well, I''m not only teaching you about fishing, son. But about life as well. Good thingse to those who wait. When you rush, you crush."


    Taking a deep breath, Ryan


    exined to his son, "It''s ok to take your time and achieve things when the time is right. Don''t give yourself too much pressure, take it slow, step at a time. Remember, son taking shortcuts will always lead to deadly consequences. Grab opportunities when theye, you''re not in a race with anyone. It''s ok to fail and as long as you keep trying, you will catch that fish."


    Ethan thought about his father''s words and he nodded thoughtfully. He looked up at him and said, "From now on, I will be patient."


    "That''s my boy," Ryan replied, ruffling Ethan''s hair. "Now watch me, I''ll show you how to cast the line."


    Ethan watched excitedly as Ryan demonstrated how to catch fish. Ryan stood straight and flicked the fishing rod forward. The line flew through the air and plunged into the water with a gentle ssh.


    Ethan''s jaw dropped to the floor, his eyes rounding in awe as he eximed, "Wow, that''s so cool!"


    Ryan grinned and remarked, "Your turn now, son. Don''t throw it too hard... you can do this!"


    The father and son had a good time. Ethan didn''t catch any fish at first but he kept trying, following his father''s lead.


    "This is harder than I thought," Ethan mumbled and pouted. He looked at the bucket and saw that his father had caught a few big fish already. "I wish I could catch fish like you, Daddy." Ryan let out a chuckle and said, "You''re doing so well on your first try. And you know what? Sometimes I don''t catch any fish myself."


    "Really?" Ethan asked, looking up at his father.


    "Yes... but I still love fishing. And I love especially being able to spend time with you like this. Isn''t it wonderful?" Ryan remarked.


    "Yes, it is! I''ve enjoyed it even though I haven''t caught any fish. But be prepared next time, I''ll catch fish bigger than yours!" Ethan dered.


    Ryan ruffled Ethan''s hair and replied, "That''s my boy."


    He suddenly thought of something


    and remarked, "In the future, in case


    I''m not around, I want you to


    remember what I taught you about


    fishing today and apply it in


    your


    day-to-day life. Also, Ethan?"


    "Yes, Daddy?" Ethan answered.


    "Always remember that familyes first. Your mother, your sister and the new babies that areing, always love and protect them. They will love and protect you too."


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 144~ Content

    "Don''t worry, Daddy. I''ll always protect them," Ethan promised.


    "That''s good..." Ryan replied, a proud smile on his face.


    They continued to fish and chat. Ethan kept trying to catch a fish but it was still a bit hard for the young boy. However, just like Ryan said, Ethan was patient enough to keep trying despite failing to catch any fish.


    Suddenly, an elderly man got on the dock with a bucket and a fishing rod.


    He looked at the father and son, saying, "I hope you didn''t finish all the fish in the river."C0ntent ? 2024 (N/?)velDrama.Org.


    Ryan nced at the man and chuckled. He smiled and replied, "Don''t worry, we''ve left plenty for you to catch."


    "I see that you brought your family on a trip... I''m staying in the suite next to you," the man said before setting up his rod and throwing it into the river. He sighed heavily and remarked, "I wasted my life searching for money and now, I''m alone in my old age. I have the money but no family to spend it with."


    "You can still have a family," Ethan said, looking at the old man. "It''s never toote."


    The man suddenly coughed violently. He cleared his throat and replied, "It''s already toote for me. I''ll never get a second chance to make sure I have a fulfilling life."


    Looking at Ryan, he uttered, "Young man, you''re so lucky to have a wife and kids. Take care of them and never take them for granted."


    A little whileter, Ryan was done fishing and after saying goodbye to the old man, he and Ethan walked back to the tented suites.


    "Are we going to cook the fish?" Ethan asked excitedly.


    "We will ask the chefs to prepare them for us," Ryan replied.


    "I can''t wait for Mommy to see how many fish you caught, Daddy!" Ethan remarked, looking at the bucket proudly.


    When they arrived, Lora and E were waiting, seated on the balcony with cups of hot chocte in their hands.


    "Look, Mommy! Daddy caught so many fish, he''s so good at fishing," Ethan eximed.


    Lora got to her feet and approached them to inspect the fish in the bucket that Ryan was carrying.


    "Oh my... these are big fish. Great job, you two!" She said.


    "Oh, it was Daddy who caught. I tried but I didn''t catch any," Ethan replied, pouting his lips.


    "You helped, sweetie," Lora stated. "That''s all that matters."


    "I''m going to ask the chef to prepare these for us. And then Ethan and I can freshen up as we wait to have dinner," Ryan proimed.


    After freshening up, the family sat around a set-up table outside on the balcony for dinner. The aroma of freshly grilled fish wafted through the air, mixed with different side dishes.


    The family happily ate their food and the twins chatted excitedly about this and that.


    When they were done, Lora leaned back in her chair, gazing at the stars that were starting to appear in the sky. She looked at her husband and said, "Thank you for bringing us here, my love. It''s so peaceful." "That''s why I chose this ce... I wanted a quiet ce to spend time with you guys. No disturbances," Ryan replied. "What did you girls do?"


    "Oh, we had so much fun, Daddy!"


    E eximed quickly as if she was waiting to be asked. She showed Ryan her painted pink nails and uttered, "We painted our nails and them someone came to give ys massages. And then we took some pictures."


    "Oh really?" Ryan remarked. "I would like to see those pictures."


    "You can check them on Mommy''s phone. We took a lot of pictures and the animals were friendly," E said, her eyes sparkling with joy.


    As time passed by, the family sat


    together under the starry sky. Ryan told the children stories about his childhood and Lora told a few of her own. The ce was filled with chatting andughter as they enjoyed each other''spany.


    Ryan''s heart was filled with content as he watched his family, a proud smile curling his lips. The twins'' happiness, Lora''s at-ease


    expression- it all felt perfect. And no matter whaty ahead, Ryan knew he would cherish every second of the time he had with his family.


    When the kids went to bed, Lora cuddled up to her husband. She looked at him, sadness creeping into her as she asked, "Why do I feel like this was a farewell trip?"


    Ryan looked down at Lora, guilt filling his heartpletely. He sighed and said, "It seems my life is full of regrets in this life. I hurt you, lost you but just when I got you back, I might not stay with you-"


    "We talked about this, baby. We won''t give up!" Lora remarked.


    "I know," Ryan replied. "I just want you to be prepared for any situation. It doesn''t mean I''m giving up. Imagine if I just disappeared without leaving any good memories for you and the kids?"


    Lora bit her lower lip, her eyes watering with tears. She responded, "I understand... but I have hope that things will get better. I love you so much and I don''t want to lose you."


    Ryan held Lora''s chin, caressing it gently as he replied, "I love you most."


    He leaned down and imed her lips in a passionate, toe-curling kiss. It was fueled with all the emotions he was feeling at that moment.


    ...


    The next day, Lora woke up and smiled at Ryan, calling, "Hey, baby. It''s morning already-"


    She paused, noticing how Ryan was curled up on his side. His brows were furrowed and his whole body was covered in sweat.


    "Ryan?" She called out, her smile fading. She touched his forehead and her heart dropped to her feet. "Ryan, you''re burning up!"


    Just as she was about to call for the doctor, Ryan''s body fell limp and his head lolled to the side.


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 Chapter 145~ Isolated

    "Mr Kingsley caught an infection," Doctor Steve told Lora.


    He cleared his throat and added, "I asked if he hade into contact with someone who could have had a cold and he said yes. In his condition, he''s susceptible to infections. His immune system has beenpromised and his body is struggling to fight off the infection. We will keep him isted for now and monitor him."


    Lora''s heart sank. She looked at the doctor and asked, "Does it mean I can''t stay by his side?"


    Doctor Steve shook his head and replied, "No, you can''t. You can see him only once per day and before you go into the ward, you need to disinfect your body and change your clothes. Your husband''s health might deteriorate if he''s exposed to more bacteria." Lora bit her lip, worry churning her stomach. She had called for an air ambnce to pick Ryan up earlier that morning.


    To say the children were scared to see their father motionless is an understatement. They were horrified.


    It was shocking to see someone who looked perfectly fine the previous night suddenly get sick and pale.


    "Is he going to get better?" Lora asked anxiously. "Can he be dischargedter?"


    Doctor Steve sighed heavily, a sad look in his eyes as he remarked, "Unfortunately, no. His condition has worsened. The only way he can get discharged is if he gets new stem cells. For now, we will give him some drugs to stabilise him. As long as he avoids reinfection, he can extend his life for a little longer."


    Lora''s heart clenched in pain. She didn''t know what to tell the children about their father''s condition and why he was going to stay in the hospital from now on.


    However, this was not something she could hide anymore..


    Looking at the doctor, Lora asked, "Can I see Ryan now?"


    "Yes, you can. Let me ask a nurse to help you," Doctor Steve replied and left.


    As Lora was waiting, she suddenly heard two familiar voices calling out to her.


    "Mommy!"


    Lora turned her head and saw the twins walking towards her. They were with Diane who seemed to have brought them over.


    When they reached her, Diane had an apologetic look on her face as she said, "I''m sorry, they really wanted to see their father. They''ve been so worried."


    Lora had sent the twins to Diane with the security team. She didn''t want them to worry but looking at the fear and confusion on their faces, she realised that they deserved to know what was happening to their father.


    "Mommy, is Daddy ok?" E asked, her eyes blurry with tears.


    Lora crouched down to the twins'' eye level. She looked into their eyes and remarked, "Ethan, E, your father is not very well at the moment. He has a condition that requires him to be away from us for some time... this is to prevent him from getting more infections. You might not get to see him as often."


    "Is he going to die?" Ethan asked, looking up at his mother for an answer.


    Lora''s stomach twisted and turned this way and that. Her eyes fluttered shut briefly as she tried to hold back her tears. She reached up and cupped Ethan''s and E''s cheeks, a sharp pang of pain twisting her heart.


    "The doctor said he''s trying his best to treat your father. So let''s pray hard for him and be hopeful that he will be ok," Lora answered.


    "Mrs Kingsley, we are ready for you," a female voice echoed around them and Lora looked back and nodded at the nurse.


    She then nced at the twins and uttered, "I''ll be back. I''m going to see your father-"


    "Can we see him too?" E requested. "I want to make sure Daddy is ok."


    Lora nced at the nurse who smiled faintly as she replied, "We don''t normally allow children to enter the istion ward. But we will allow it only this once." "Thank you so much," Lora said, getting to her feet.


    She and the twins followed the


    nurse into the changing room. From there, Lora and the twins took a shower with medicated soap. They then put on sterilised blue gowns. They wore caps on their heads and gloves on their hands.


    "We need to be careful when we see Daddy. That''s why we are cleaning ourselves up," Lora exined to the children and they nodded in response. Then, the nurse led them to the istion ward.


    Lora looked at Ryan through the huge ss, her heart sinking seeing how pale and exhausted he had be in just a space of a few hours.


    "This is where you will be seeing him from most of the time. Going inside can be dangerous, but you can stand outside and watch him through this ss," the nurse exined.


    The lump in Lora''s throat grew


    bigger. She had promised to stay by Ryan''s side but now, they would


    have to be separated by a ss


    Everyone had to stay away from him to keep him healthy. Life can be cruel sometimes.


    When they entered the ward, Ryan slowly opened his eyes.


    "Daddy!" E eximed and rushed over. "Are you in pain? You should take all your medicines even if they are bitter, ok? You will be fine once you take your medicine."


    Ryan let out a low chuckle but it was weak. He replied, "Thank you, E. I''ll surely get better."


    "Yay! I''ll also pray for you so that you get better quickly," E remarked and Ryan nced at her lovingly.


    "I''m so happy to see all of you... I hope I didn''t scare you," Ryan said, pain flickering through his eyes when they met Lora''s.


    "Well, the kids and I won''t be able to see you often. But I wanted to assure you that we are there for you. Get well soon, my love," Lora remarked. "And although we were scared, we know you will get better." Ryan smiled, warmth spreading through him. He replied, "I''m sorry... I had no idea I could catch infections that quickly."


    Ethan stepped forward and proimed. "Get well soon, Daddy."


    "Thank you, son," Ryan replied, a sigh of relief escaping him when he looked at his family.


    Earlier, he hated the smell of disinfectant and the whole setup of the istion room. He even wanted to ask the doctor to discharge him. However, seeing his family gave him the strength to endure. He had to live longer to find a donor so that he could stay by his family''s side.


    Hourster, a woman sneaked into the ICU and went into the istion ward.


    She approached the bed before looking down at the man who was lying on it.


    He looked so pale and weak. Gone was the strong, energetic Ryan Kingsley. Now he just looked like an ordinary person.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    The woman looked at Ryan''s face and suddenlyughed.


    "Oh, Ryan, so this is what has be of you. Not so untouchable now, are you?"

 Chapter 146~ A revelation

    "I thought I would have to work very hard to bring you down... who knew the heavens were on my side and did the job for me?" The woman said mockingly. "Look at you... who knew the great Ryan Kingsley could be so vulnerable?" The woman sneered as she looked around the ward. She wrinkled her nose at the scent of disinfectant and strong drugs. The sound of the beeping equipment irritated her to the core.


    "So, despite being a rich man, you couldn''t save your life. Serves you right!"


    "I loved you, Ryan. But you chose that bitch, Lora over me. You even made me a fugitive! Now look at you! You''re a dead man! Haha! In the end, I won!"


    That''s right. The woman who had sneaked into Ryan''s room was none other than Ivy Williams.


    However, she looked different from the Ivy Williams everyone knew. She had dyed her blonde hair ck and she wore brown contacts to hide her green eyes.


    With her hair styled into a fringe, it was hard to recognise her. Especially by those who didn''t know her.


    Ivy had been staying at an apartment that was under the name she was using now. Rose Woods.


    Her father called her to let her know that Ryan was dying and he was admitted to the hospital.


    Despite the risk, Ivy couldn''t help herself. She wanted to see how far Ryan had fallen after ruining her life.


    So, she bribed a nurse to help her sneak into Ryan''s ward.


    Sure enough, she felt a sense of satisfaction after seeing him look so weak and vulnerable.


    She suddenly sneered and said, "Ryan Kingsley, I still can''t believe that you were so gullible. How could you believe that I was crippled for so many years? Me? Ivy Williams? Why would I be a cripple?!"


    She scoffed andughed again. "Oh, you were such a fool. But you know what? That''s not the only thing I lied about."


    Ivy nced at Ryan, a huge grin on her face as she said, "Since you''re dying, I''ll do you a favour and tell you the truth. Although I don''t know if you will hear me since you''re in aa. I do hope you hear me though... perhaps it can kill you faster." Sheughed again, her eyes gleaming with joy.


    "Oh, I can''t wait to see the look on Lora''s face when you kick the bucket. She thought she could have you forever after stealing you from me. But karma is a bitch," Ivy uttered.


    She sighed and remarked, "Anyway... Are you ready for the news?"


    Ivy paused as though she was waiting for Ryan to answer but he just continued sleeping.


    "I''m not the one who saved you," Ivy stated. "It was someone else but I took the credit!"


    Ivy recalled the past andughed, "Oh Ryan... you had been showing your gratitude to the wrong person all this while. I never saved you from drowning. Neither did I jump in front of you to get hit in your stead. I''m not crazy to risk my life like that!" When they were young, Ivy and her parents had gone for a vacation. They heard the Kingsleys had gone for a family outing, so they went to the same location to try and get close to them.


    Suddenly, there was chaos on the beach. It turned out Ryan Kingsley had entered the water for a swim and couldn''t be found.


    As a rescue team searched for Ryan, Ivy took a little walk. However, she happened to see a little girl help Ryan out of the water.


    When Ivy ran towards them, the girl asked, "Do you know him? Ask someone to take him back to his room. He will wake up soon."


    However, Ivy didn''t do that. She sat on the ground next to Ryan and waited for him to wake up. When he did, Ryan nced at her and said, "You saved me."


    Ivy secretly cut her arm with a stone and showed it to Ryan, replying, "Yes, I did. It wasn''t easy. I even hurt myself."


    Ryan felt guilty. From that time, he allowed Ivy to hang out with him and that was when it all started.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Yearster when Ryan was older and he got kidnapped, Ivy made sure he thought she was the one who jumped in to save him, thus "breaking" her legs in the process.


    "All that nonsense of me being


    kidnapped with you never happened... well, someone got kidnapped with you but it wasn''t, me... I just took the opportunity to have you wrapped around my finger and it worked! Who knew the great Ryan Kingsley could easily be manipted?"


    A look of hatred suddenly shed through Ivy''s eyes. She red at Ryan and spat, "Oh, how I hate you wish I could strangle you to death right now! I hate you, Ryan Kingsley! Why didn''t you love me? Why did you love that bitch, Lora? What did she have that I don''t have"


    Ivy''s eyes turned red from frustration. She hated Ryan and med him and Lora for her misfortune.


    "I stayed by your side when she ran away from you but I never got any warmth from you... dinners with you were forced. You couldn''t even hug or kiss me... I hate you so much and I''m so d you''re dying, Ryan was nning to kill you anyway. If I can''t have you, no one else will, Ivy


    hissed.


    When Ivy left, Ryan opened his eyes. He quickly called his security team and instructed. "Ivy just left my ward. Lock down the hospital and capture her now."


    After the call, Ryan furrowed his eyebrows when he recalled Ivy''s confession. He was pretending to sleep to hear what she was going to say and sure enough, he just got the shock of his life. Ivy had yed her game well and he had been the fool who believed her for so many years.


    Anger red through Ryan. He dialled Adan''s line and said through gritted teeth, "Bro, help me find out who saved me in the past. It turns out I''ve been rewarding the wrong person this whole time." When he ended the call, Ryan lowered his eyes, his heart full of regret and pain. He had wasted so much time on a scheming woman and now, he was facing the consequences of his actions.


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 Chapter 147~ A deal

    Ivy had a smug smile on her lips when she left Ryan''s room. Her heart was leaping with joy.


    Finally, she had her revenge. Ryan was dying and Lora would be alone forever with her two little bastards.


    "Oh, Lora, you thought you could beat me... who''s the loser now?" Ivy said to herself and giggled.


    She entered the elevator and pressed the button for the ground floor. Since Ryan was in aa, she didn''t have to worry about being caught.


    He didn''t know she had sneaked into his ward and he would never know the truth about the past. The thought of Ryan still feeling a little guilty towards her thinking she had saved him in the past filled Ivy with joy.


    With a sense of satisfaction, Ivy waited for the elevator to reach the ground floor. When it finally did, she stepped out but her smile froze when she found two men in suits standing outside.


    Ivy was about to make a run for it when the police who were behind the men came forward and surrounded her.


    "Miss Williams, you are under arrest for kidnapping and attempted murder-"


    "You got the wrong person," Ivy said nervously, trying to sidestep the police.


    However, one of the men in ck took out his phone and showed Ivy footage of her in Ryan''s room.N?velDrama.Org owns this text.


    Ivy scoffed and said, "This doesn''t prove anything. I''m a distant rtive and just wanted to check how he was doing."


    "Do you want me to y the audio of this footage, Miss?" The man asked. "Mr Kingsley heard everything you said. It doesn''t matter if you''ve changed your appearance, your face is still the same. It''s time for you to pay for your crimes, Miss Williams." Ivy looked around anxiously and pushed the officer before making a run for it.


    ''There''s no way I''m going to jail. Never,'' she said in her mind as she ran as fast as her legs could take her.


    However, luck was not on her side. The police caught up with her and pinned her to the ground, cuffing her wrists.


    "No! I didn''t do anything! You can''t do this!" Ivy screamed as they dragged her away.


    She saw how everyone had stopped to watch what was happening and anger shed through her eyes.


    ring at the onlookers, she hissed, "What the hell are you looking at? Mind your own fucking business!"


    As the police finally dragged Ivy out of the hospital, she yelled hysterically, "This is not over yet! Ryan and Lora, I''ll make sure I ruin you!"


    On the other side of town, David Williams was informed about Ivy''s arrest by his assistant.


    "What? How did it happen? I made sure she was untraceable!" He asked.


    "Miss Williams was arrested at the hospital. She went to see Mr Kingsley and got caught before she could leave," the assistant replied gingerly.


    David hit his fist on the table, his brows furrowing. He spat, "Dammit! Ivy has always been impulsive. Now I can''t do anything since she''s already been caught!"


    "This is all because of Ryan Kingsley. I swear I''ll make him pay for what he did to my daughter!"


    David took out his phone and called Celeste.


    "Let''s move up our ns. I want that bastard to lose everything before he dies. I want him to regret hurting my daughter on his deathbed! I''ll avenge my daughter!" David hissed.


    On the other side of the phone, Celeste smirked and remarked, "Now that''s the energy I want... let''s meet in a few days."


    ...


    The next day, Lora went to see Ryan. As instructed, she took a shower and wore the sterilised gown before entering Ryan''s ward.


    She looked at him and relief washed over her when she saw that some colour had returned to his face.


    "You look like you feel better," Lora said, a smile crossing her lips.


    Ryan smiled at her and replied, "I


    do... Ivy being out there stressed me out. I always worried that she would do something to hurt you again. Now that she''s been arrested, Kean rest assured that you will be safe."


    sw no


    When Ivy was arrested the previous day, the news was broadcast on every news channel in the city. However, they did not go into much detail since Ryan didn''t want people to know where he was admitted. "Did she try to hurt you when she came?" Lora asked worriedly.


    Ryan shook his head. He said, "I think she just came to mock me."


    After recalling her words, he shook


    his head and added, "She told me the truth about the past... It turns out I had been a fool for so many years. Ivy never saved me before... she fied. I was really grateful to her for saving me, not knowing she took all the credit when I was saved by I


    someone else. I''ve asked Adan to


    look for the person who saved me."


    Lora furrowed her eyebrows and asked, "Are you going to try and repay that person like you did with Ivy? They probably don''t even remember... some people just help without expecting anything in return."


    "I know," Ryan replied. "I just want to know who deserved my gratitude and say thank you. Come to think of it, I had always found it strange that Ivy would use those incidents to get what she wanted. It was like she had saved me for a price and I had to pay for the rest of my life


    "She will get what she deserves. No one goes unpunished. One way or another, we would have to face the consequences of our actions," Lora remarked.


    Silence fell upon them briefly before Ryan replied, "Yeah, like me. I ignored my illness and now, here we are."


    Lora grabbed Ryan''s hand and squeezed it, saying, "We have learnt a lesson and we will fight this illness. Together."


    Ryan nced at Lora, his eyes glistening with unshed tears. He said, "I wish I could kiss you right now. You look so beautiful."


    Lora blushed, her heart skipping a beat.


    She smiled, leaned closer and replied, "When you get better, I''ll give you all the kisses you want."


    A yful glint shed through her eyes as she added, "I''ll not only give you kisses, but I''ll also give you head and then ride you like a pro."


    Ryan hissed, closing his eyes to imagine that for a second. His eyes fluttered open and desire shed through them. He said in a hoarse voice, "It''s a deal."


    ...


    Dayster...


    At a nearby hotel, Jason stepped into the lobby. His mother, Celeste Anderson Kingsley, had invited him to dinner.


    As he approached the VIP room, voices drifted out of the crack in the door. He stopped short when he heard what was being said.


    ".....your fault for letting Ryan live. You should have made sure he died when we arranged his kidnapping years ago," Celeste''s voice reached Jason''s ears and his eyes widened into saucers. What did he just hear?

 Chapter 148~ Disbelief

    Jason had beenying low thest few days after hisst encounter with Lora. Even though he had told her he would never give up on her, the resolute look in her eyes showed him that she would never love him in this life. That night, his mother had invited him for dinner, iming there was someone who wished to meet him for business.


    Although Jason was no longer interested in fighting Ryan for the position of CEO, he still went to see what his mother was up to.


    To his shock, he happened to overhear something that shocked him to the core. As he stood outside the VIP room, his heart raced as he listened to the conversation between his mother and an unknown man.


    "Celeste, don''t try to act innocent in this. You wanted to get rid of Ryan, so you asked for our help. Now that I have nothing else to lose, I want to destroy the Kingsleys once and for all. I want Ryan to feel the pain of losing something precious to him," a man''s voice came.


    "I''m not trying to act innocent, David. You were the one who went against our deal. You didn''t want the Kingsley Group tond in my hands. You wanted it all to yourself by making your daughter marry Ryan. Our n was to kill him and then we would share the benefits once my son took over but you became greedy. It''s your fault for letting Ryan live...."


    Jason''s heart dropped to his feet when he heard those words. He felt like someone had poured a bucket of cold water over his head.


    His mother had orchestrated Ryan''s kidnapping years ago? Was she always such a scheming person?


    "That''s because I knew you were going to betray me, Celeste. Miles may have fallen for your lies, but I know you and what kind of fraud you are. I wouldn''t have gotten my cut... that''s why I thought it was better for my daughter to be a Kingsley instead. However, that bastard, Ryan didn''t love my daughter... in the end, he was her doom. Now I want to finish him and make him pay for what he did to her!"


    Jason''s breath hitched.


    His mother and the man he had now recognised as David Williams were talking about how they nned to kill Ryan years ago. Jason never thought his mother was capable of killing anyone.


    He just thought she had been mistreated by Charles and Ryan, and that was why she wanted him to im thepany for himself. Who knew it was for her own selfish reasons? Memories of the past shed through Jason''s mind... whenever she talked to him, she always made sure to show her disdain for Ryan, nting a bad impression of him into Jason''s mind. In the end, Jason ended up hating Ryan and thinking he was the reason his mother had a hard time and sent him away from the family.


    Who knew Celeste was a murderer and all she had said about Ryan was a lie?


    "Lower your voice," Celeste snapped at David. "Jason will be here soon. I don''t want him to know about what we did. I want him to hate Ryan and grab everything that belongs to me." Jason clenched his fists, a mixture of rage and disbelief coursing through him. So, his mother was just using him for her own gain?


    ''Oh mother, it''s toote. I already know your true colours,'' Jason mused.


    The conversation inside the room continued.


    "We will hear him when he''s here," David replied.


    Another female voice reached Jason''s ears. "Do you think Ivy will talk? She knows everything."


    "Come on, Celine. Our daughter is relying on us to avenge her. She''s not going to confess when we are the only ones who can finish Ryan," David replied to his wife.


    "What if Ryan finds out the truth?" Celine asked again.Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    "He''s a dying man anyway, what can he do?" It was Celeste who replied this time and the whole ce echoed withughter.


    Jason felt sick, his stomach churning. He wanted to burst in and demand answers but his legs felt like lead.


    ¡°We need to act fast... I have to buy


    into the Kingsley group since the stock price keeps dropping. I''m sure once Ryan realises that I own most of the shares, he will die from shock. I think that would be doing him a favour... it''s better than dying from pain," David said in a mocking voice.


    Jason couldn''t listen anymore. He stepped back, his mind reeling with emotions-anger, betrayal, confusion.


    He had always looked up to his mother, so finding out she was this wicked was very disappointing.


    Without a word, he turned and walked away from the VIP room, not making his presence known.


    On his way, he bumped into his sister, Isabe Kingsley as she walked out of the elevator.


    "Bro, where are you going?" Isabe asked, looking behind Jason to see if the others were following him. "Is the meeting over already? That was quick." "I''ve got an emergency. Please tell Mother I''ll see herter," Jason replied before stepping into the elevator, not sparing Isabe a nce.


    He was very sure she was their mother''s aplice and that made him feel more disturbed.


    Isabe frowned when the elevator doors closed. Jason couldn''t even look her in the eye and he looked upset. Did something happen?


    A few secondster, she brushed those thoughts away and went to the VIP room.


    "Where''s your brother?" Celeste asked when she saw Isabe walk in alone.


    Isabe shrugged and replied, "He said he has an emergency and he will see youter."


    Celeste clenched her hands into fists. She thought she had Jason under her control buttely, he had been doing things contrary to their ns.


    "Will there be a problem?" David asked, sensing Celeste''s shifting mood.


    Celesteposed herself and smiled, saying, "Not at all... I''ll fill him inter. Let''s go ahead."


    Meanwhile, Jason sat in his car, his


    hands tightening around the


    steering wheel as anger red. through him. His mother''s words


    kept echoing in his mind like a broken record.


    "It''s your fault for letting Ryan live..."


    "You should have made sure he died when we arranged the kidnapping years ago..."


    Jason still couldn''t believe his ears.


    How could his own mother have been involved in something so heinous? Was she that desperate and greedy to the extent of bing a murderer?


    Jason''s heart clenched in pain. He


    never expected his mother to be the bad guy in all this. And here he was, following her lead to get everything from Ryan. How was he different


    from her?


    en


    A sigh escaped Jason''s lips. He was about to start his car and leave when his phone rang.


    When he saw that the call was from Ryan, Jason''s heart skipped a beat.


    He furrowed his eyebrows and answered, "Hello?"


    "Hello, Jason," Ryan said on the phone. "Can we meet? There''s something we need to talk about and it''s important."

 Chapter 149~ A promise

    Jason stepped into the private room and found Ryan seated at the table. He was in casual clothes and his slightly pale face was illuminated by the soft glow from the chandelier hanging from the ceiling.


    "Is it ok for you to be out like this?" Jason asked as he took a seat.


    It was a bit awkward to meet Ryan like this. They had never had a decent conversation and with what happened with Lora, the air around them was a bit tense.


    "It''s ok... but I can''t be out for long hours. I''m more likely to get sick if I receive many visitors but being in the open like this is ok," Ryan responded.


    Jason''s eyebrows furrowed and aplicated feeling coursed through him. He nced at Ryan and asked, "Why did you want to meet me?"


    Ryan suddenly smirked and asked, "Can''t I ask to meet my little brother?"


    Jason scoffed. He replied, "We both know we are not that close."


    An awkward silence fell between them.


    After a few seconds, Ryan reached for a file that was on hisp. He ced it on the table and pushed it towards Jason.


    Jason nced at the file, confusion flickering through his eyes. He looked at Ryan and asked, "What is this?"


    Ryan cleared his throat and his expression suddenly turned serious. He looked into Jason''s eyes and requested, "Jason, can I entrust my family to you?"


    Jason''s eyes rounded at Ryan. He furrowed his eyebrows and eximed, "What? What do you mean?"


    Ryan sat back in his seat, sadness crept into him as he said, "I know I''ll not make it. Finding another donor is a long shot. I want to know that Lora and my children will be loved and protected when I''m no longer in this world." Jason still had a look of confusion on his face, so Ryan continued.


    "I know you genuinely love Lora. You took care of Lora and the twins when I wasn''t there for them... I think you''re someone they can rely on." Ryan gulped, his throat burning from the painful words. "I want you to take care of my family for me..." Silence fell upon them as Jason took in those words.


    "Does Lora know you''re doing this? I don''t think she would be happy that you gave up so easily," Jason remarked.


    "I don''t want to give up but I have to be realistic too," Ryan said. His heart tightened in his chest as he added, "I have to ept that I''m not meant to grow old with Lora. No matter how much I love her... my journey with her will be ending soon. However, before I leave, I would like to make sure she''s well protected."


    He slid the file closer to Jason, saying, "Open it."


    Jason frowned and opened the file reluctantly. When he saw what was written inside, his heart skipped a beat.


    "You''re giving me your shares? Are you crazy?" Jason asked incredulously.


    Ryan shook his head and said, "It''s a temporal transfer. Once my children turn eighteen, they will each get a share. However, I want you to protect thepany in my stead. I''m asking you as my brother to take care of my family."


    "Why didn''t you ask Diane?" Jason asked, feeling confused. "Aren''t you worried that my mother would steal your shares?"


    Ryan chuckled and replied, "Diane loves freedom... giving her more shares would make her a candidate for the CEO position. She wouldn''t want to be tied down like that... she will be there for my family too but she will get married one day and have a family of her own. I wouldn''t


    like my family to hold her back''tContent rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    as


    for you, since you love Lora, you might even end up together," Ryan said, clenching his hands into fists.


    His heart was twisting in pain, but making sure Lora was loved and protected while he was gone was his priority.


    Jason went through the file. He could see that Ryan had already signed the document of transfer.


    How could he easily give him everything like this?


    Jason didn''t know what to think about this offer. Was Ryan testing him?


    After a few seconds, Jason looked at Ryan and asked, "Don''t you hate me? My mother made your life difficult and I began to fight you for the CEO position. Why would you entrust me with your family and thepany?"


    "We are brothers, aren''t we?" Ryan


    Kay


    said, smiling. "I thought about it...


    Your mother must have fed you lies your whole life. So all you know is how to hate me. But I think it''s never too fate to fix our rtionship and know each other better..."


    Ryan paused and then added, "In the short time that I have left... if you don''t mind. Also, someone is trying to buy into thepany. I can''t let the Kingsley Legacy fall into


    someone else''s hands. If it has to be owned by someone else, I would rather give thepany to my family. However, there''s one thing I want to know. Did you know who Lora was and approached her intentionally?"


    Jason frowned. He replied, "No. I never knew she was Larisa or your wife. I just met her and fell in love with her. I found outter when she had already returned to the city."


    Relief washed over Ryan. He gave Jason a small smile and stated, "Lora said you''re a good person and I trust her judgement. Please take care of her and my four children." "Four?" Jason asked, looking confused.


    A proud look crossed Ryan''s face as he answered, "Yes, four. Lora''s pregnant with twins. That''s why I''m so worried... what if I leave before she gives birth to our twins? I need to know she will be alright when I''m gone." Jason lowered his eyes, his mind reeling with thoughts. After finding out what his mother was really like, he was no longer resentful towards Ryan.


    Looking up at him, he nodded and promised, "I''ll do my best to be there for your family."


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 150~ Stepping down

    [Ryan Kingsley is in hisst days and the future of the Kingsley Group remains uncertain.]


    [The Kingsley Group''s stocks keep dropping following Ryan''s declining health. Could this be the end of the Kingsley Group?]


    [The Kingsley Group is on the verge of copse as Ryan Kingsley approaches his end.]


    The news of Ryan''s deteriorating health spread through the city like an angry wildfire. Ryan was going through his phone, reading the headlines when Lora grabbed his phone from him.


    He was better now but to avoid getting another infection, he still stayed in the istion ward. Lora was there for her daily visit when the inte went crazy with the news of Ryan''s condition.This text is property of N?/velD/rama.Org.


    "I don''t think you should read the news. It will just stress you," Lora remarked as she put the phone away.


    "It''s funny how quickly these reporters get wind of information about me. I''m guessing this is Celeste''s doing," Ryan replied, his eyes turning cold at the thought. "She just won''t let this go until I make a move to deal with her."


    "Grandpa said he will deal with her," Lora said. "You don''t have to worry about anything. Just focus on getting better."


    Lora''s phone suddenly buzzed and her expression changed when she read the message she had received.


    "What is it?" Ryan asked.


    "Um... it''s nothing-"


    "Tell me the truth, my love... please," Ryan requested.


    Lora sighed heavily. She responded reluctantly, saying, "It''s Lawrence. He''s saying Grandpa is having a hard time calming the board members. Apparently, they had called for an emergency meeting since the current news has shaken thepany to the core." Ryan''s eyes shed coldly. He knew thepany was very vulnerable and was at risk of a hostile takeover in its current state.


    "I need to go there..." Ryan said as he pulled out the IV on his arm gently.


    Lora''s eyes widened when she saw Ryan getting down from the bed.


    "Hey, no you can''t. It''s risky-"


    "It''s ok... I''ll wear a mask. I need to deal with this. Someone will take advantage of thepany''s weak state to take control of it. I can''t let that happen. This is our family''s legacy," Ryan replied.


    Lora pursed her lips into a thin line as she watched Ryan put on his suit. She didn''t like the idea of Ryan risking his health by going out there. However, she understood why he wanted to protect thepany.


    She would do the same if her family''spany which had been there for generations were on the verge of copse.


    Thus, she wasn''t going to stop her husband but support him.


    "I''ll go with you," Lora offered, a smile crossing her lips. "I know you would stand by my side if something happened to Davis & Co. too."


    Ryan nced at Lora lovingly, a warm smile on his lips. He replied, "Let''s go and put things in order."


    ...


    Meanwhile, in the conference room at the Kingsley Group, intense tension hung thick in the air.


    Shareholders sat around the long oak table, their faces a mix of concern, fear and greed.


    Charles Kingsley and Miles shared a look, sighing heavily from exhaustion. They had been having a hard time for close to an hour, trying to calm the shareholders. However, this time, they were not willing to listen to anything.


    "Thepany has been taking hit after hit for thest few weeks. Do you know how much I''ve lost? When I invested in the Kingsley Group, k was told I would only make profits. This is ridiculous! We need sotution, now!" One of the shareholders yelled.


    AQUA


    Another one agreed with him and remarked, "think we''ve been patient enough. Ryan is dying, we need new leadership. If we don''t change thepany''s CEO, the stock price will keep dropping! I''m not willing to make any more losses."


    "We are doing our best to rectify the situation-" Charles replied but he was cut off.


    "Clearly your method is not working. Today''s news has just made things worse. I propose that we change the CEO. Jason Kingsley is perfectly healthy," Franklin Hall suggested.


    "Ladies and Gentlemen, I know you would prefer for Jason to take over as CEO right now, but I suggest he steps in as the acting CEO until Ryan gets better-"


    "Stop lying to yourself. He''s not going to get better," Franklin cut Miles'' words off.


    mes of fury danced through Miles'' eyes. He red at Franklin and said through gritted teeth, "My son will get better. The CEO position is his."


    Franklin arched an eyebrow andughed before asking, "Aren''t you the one who gave your hidden son your shares? Wasn''t it because you wanted him to steal your first son''s position?"


    "You-" Miles'' face turned red from anger. He was about to reply when the doors suddenly opened.


    All heads turned towards the doors and Ryan Kingsley walked in with Lora by his side. He still had an imposing figure and he oozed power and dominance. Once he stepped into the room, his presence could be felt. "M-Mr Kingsley," Franklin remarked, his eyes rounding in shock. "Weren''t you on the brink of death?"


    "Is that what Celeste told you?" Ryan sneered. He ignored the old man and took a seat next to his grandfather and father. He looked at everyone and said, "I was enjoying my leave but I think it''s better I address you all personally." Lora took a seat next to Ryan and held his hand under the table. They shared a look and smiled at each other faintly before returning their attention to the meeting.


    Franklin recovered from his shock


    and asked, "You did well to show up, Mr Kingsley. Given the state of your health, don''t you think you should step down and let someone more capable handle thepany? We can''t keep losing money just because the CEO is about to die."


    Lora''s eyes shed with anger but Ryan squeezed her hand to silently calm her.


    "Do you want to be the CEO?" Ryan asked, arching an eyebrow. "I''m sorry but I won''t let thepany fall into the wrong hands." Before Franklin could reply, the doors opened again and Ivy''s parents, David and Celine Williams, walked in together with Celeste. "We hope we are not toote," David Williams said, a smug smile on his face. He looked like a man who had just won the lottery.


    "We heard about this meeting and thought we would offer a solution to thepany''s... situation. Ourpany is willing to invest and stabilize the Kingsley group to prevent it from going bankrupt," David added, a huge grin on his face. Silence fell over the ce as everyone registered David''s words. He wanted to buy the Kingsley Group.


    Ryan narrowed his eyes at David andpany. So this was their goal. They wanted to cripple thepany to a point where they could take control easily.


    He scoffed and said coldly, "The Kingsley Group will never be for sale."


    David sneered and replied, "Put your pride aside, Ryan. The Kingsley Group will be done for if you don''t rectify the situation."


    Ryan simply smirked and uttered, "That''s why I''m here. I came to address the board and announce my decision."


    The room fell silent and all eyes fell on him.


    Ryan scanned the room before his eyes fell on Jason who was sitting quietly at the far end of the table. He announced, "I am stepping down as the CEO of the Kingsley Group and handing over my authority to Jason Kingsley."

 Chapter 151~ His answer

    "I''m resigning as the CEO from now onwards and Jason will be the new CEO of the Kingsley Group," Ryan announced. Ryan Kingsley had been nning on how to step down from his position as the CEO of the Kingsley Group.


    Jason had not confirmed if he would take over as CEO, however, Ryan still announced it, hoping Jason was for the idea.


    A murmur swept over the room after Ryan announced that he would be stepping down. He looked at the shareholders'' stunned faces and asked, "Why the shocked faces? Isn''t this what you were all expecting?"


    Lora nced at Ryan, confusion creeping into her. She didn''t know Ryan was going to hand over his position to Jason just like that.


    Why did he do that and when did he n all this?


    Ryan sensed her gaze. He looked at her and gave her a small smile before he mouthed that he would exinter.


    Lora nodded, swallowing the lump in her throat. Deep down, she knew why he did that but she didn''t want to ept it. For her, there was still hope for Ryan to recover and she would continue to look for a solution until she found one. "Son, you don''t have to do what the shareholders are asking you to do. When you get better, you can fix thepany''s predicament," Miles remarked, sadness filling him as he looked at his son.


    "I may not get better though," Ryan remarked and the ce fell into dead silence. "Life needs to go on. We can''t put everything on hold just because I''m sick. Jason has the most shares after me. I think he deserves to take over my position." Ryan''s eyes met Jason''s again. He asked, "What do you say? Do you ept?"


    "Of course, he does! He was born to do this!" Celeste excitedly answered on Jason''s behalf.Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    She wore a triumphant smile on her face as she said to Jason, "Jason, why are you not saying anything? This is a golden opportunity! He''s giving you thepany on a silver tter... this is our only chance to take control!"


    David frowned as he looked at Celeste. He narrowed his eyes at her and asked in a low voice, "Are you changing your mind now? This wasn''t the n... the n was for me to take control and appoint your son as CEO!" "You will still be in control. Aren''t you going to buy shares in the group?" Celeste whispered back, her eyes gleaming with joy.


    Finally, she had won! If she had known Ryan would throw in the towel on his own, she wouldn''t have coborated with David. Now she had to share thepany with David otherwise he would expose her crimes to the Kingsleys. Celeste silently thought of a n to get rid of David. In the end, the Kingsley group should be hers alone.


    Franklin smiled and remarked, "Ryan, what you just did shows that you''re a true leader. I can''t believe you gave up your position that easily. But I''m d... thepany will recover soon once news gets out that we changed CEOs." The other shareholders who had been worried were visibly relieved. They nodded amongst themselves and discussed how their investments would be safe now that Ryan had willingly stepped down from his position. Charles looked at Ryan, his heart clenching in pain. He asked, "Are you sure? You don''t need to step down. We believe you will be ok."


    Ryan smiled at his grandfather and


    replied, "Grandpa, don''t worry. Even


    if Jason takes over thepany, he''s family. He can''t harm thepany."


    At the same time, guilt crept into Miles Kingsley. He couldn''t believe he had been jealous of his son for bing the CEO instead of him Ryan was a real leader... it''s not easy to step down from such a high position. Others would rather die than hand over the position to someone else.


    He looked at Ryan and began, "Ryan-"


    "Dad, Jason and I had already talked about this. I already gave him my shares," Ryan interrupted and stunned silence fell upon the room again. Lora''s eyes widened too because she didn''t expect Ryan to give Jason his shares. Didn''t he hate him?


    "Shouldn''t you have left those shares for your children?" One of the shareholders asked.


    Ryan looked at him and replied coldly, "Mind your own business."


    He didn''t want people to know the share transfer was temporal or else they would try to sabotage Jason.


    The CEO position was a dangerous position to be in. Ryan managed to maintain the position because of his ruthlessness and dominance.


    However, a new CEO would be an easy target for those with evil intentions to make their move and try to take thepany for themselves. "Did you two make up or something?" Charles asked, looking between his two grandsons.


    He hadn''t yet warmed up to Jason since he didn''t know his stance, so he was shocked that Ryan had transferred his shares to him. Wasn''t that handing over thepany to Celeste on a silver tter?


    Ryan smirked and replied, "We didn''t need to make up or anything... it''s not like we fought."


    Charles sighed. He knew his grandson wouldn''t make an impulsive decision. If he handed his position to Jason, it meant that he trusted him. Looking at Jason, Charles decided to give him a chance. He asked, "You haven''t said anything, Jason. Do you ept to take over as CEO?"


    Jason looked around, scanning


    everyone''s expressions. He nced at his mother and saw the greedy look in her eyes. It was like she was already in heaven from the mere thought of Jason taking overthepany.


    "No," Jason answered, his answer causing the ce to fall into dead silence. ncing at Ryan, he remarked, "I''m not interested."


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!