Wasn't my love enough?

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Sandra

“NO, NO, Terry! Don’t do this to me. Please! You still have time to stop this. Please think of me. I love you. Don’t you see that? Don’t do this. I won’t stop begging you until you realized that this is a mistake.” My heart pulse was so hard that I wondered when it would explode. Will it destroy my body like the rest of my illusions? My being is in ruins, my heart is in ruins, and it is all because of him. My Terry, my only love. He is the reason for my existence since I was young.

It has always been him and me, but now? I am about to witness how, and without struggle or remorse, he turns his back on me. So many years of my devotion, love, loyalty, and commitment. All going to the pipe. “Nothing I offered you. Is it worth it in your eyes? My life, my years with you, our friendship? None of that matters to you, Terry?” He glued his eyes to mine, giving me the impression that he was seeing me for the first time in days.

“When did you stop loving me? At what point does your love for me die?” Everything is dark now, and I don’t know what to do. I know he loves me. I am sure he loves me. But the distance between us is freezing, and even my bones hurt. I took a slow step forward, and then another, and another, until I reached him. I could taste his breath on my face and the smell of his favourite cologne. With nervous hands and a light touch, I caress his cheek. And with my cracked voice, I begged him for the last time, “Please, Terry, please.”

I look at him with pleading eyes, waiting to see a sign. But I didn’t see what I was looking for. Only that ugly determination in those eyes that gave me the world once. I can’t see hope. It’s like he shielded them from showing something, at least, to me. At that moment, I knew he wouldn't change his mind.

Taking my hands in his, Terry squeezes me hard, not to the point of pain, but demanding my attention.

“Sandra,” He said my name as a plea, “You damn well know I love you. For so many years, I showed you, my genuine love. Not a single day passed by without involving you in everything that I am. But I need you today. Can’t you get how much I carry on my shoulders? Can’t you get how much I am suffering too? This is something I can’t avoid. We previously argued about it. And If it’s necessary to tell you one more time, again I will. I’m going to tell you what is happening. I’m tired of repeating the same point again and again. But nothing seems to make you understand. I’m under a lot of stress right now, love. I need you to trust me. This was the only way, Sandra. Please, trust me, trust me.”

He is searching in my eyes for understanding. But how can I understand? My shocked expression at hearing this must be obvious. Terry only shocked his head. “Seriously, Sandra, I don’t know what else to do. How can I make you see, without complicating this mess, even more?”

With eyes of pain and regret, he contemplates me for a few seconds, softening his eyes just for a moment. But then, he said, “This will not interfere with our relationship. Let me be clear, this has nothing to do with you. This is between Susan and me. It is a business arrangement, nothing else. You are my heart, and nobody will ever take that place. This is the last time I will repeat this.” Terry got even closer if that was possible, then he continued, “Accept what is going to happen. Whether you want it, this will take place.”

Closing the space that was between us to the point of brushing our noses, Terry pointed his finger at my chest and punctuated each word with each push. “You. Are. Mine. And if I tell you to do something, you will do it. If I tell you to jump, you jump. And if I ask you to accept this, you will accept it. There is no other way to go for me. I would rather not hear from you anything again about this situation. Do you understand? Are we clear on this now? You have no choice but to say yes. As I told you, this will be temporary. Now, I ask you again, are we clear on this?”

With a threatening look, he dares me to contradict him. There is only that hard look and determination in his eyes. Swallowing my fear, and with words wrapped in pain, I answer, “Whatever you have with her, you will never have it with me again. You will not have a life with me if you have a life with her. If you marry her, you won’t do it with me. If you have children with her, you will never have them with me.” With false strength and stubbornness, I hold his gaze, telling him I will not accept this. I won’t share my love with anyone. This is my limit.

Terry widened his eyes in surprise, then he squeezed my face in a painful hold with one hand. Coldness chills my bones when he pushes me towards the wall, hitting me hard on the back of my head. Screaming in my face, he told me, “You are going to do what I tell you. I didn’t ask for your opinion because you are an insignificant woman who has nothing to contribute to this family. All you do is open your legs for me, and you will continue to do it. That will be your only function here. You will be what I’m telling you to be. And if I want to lock you in a room until the moment I would like to use you again, I will. Be careful about how you talk to me, Sandra. No one disrespects me, least of all you. I would not hesitate to put you in your place.” Releasing my face and taking a few steps back, he shook his head, astonished by his words. “Look what you made me do.” With one more look, Terry turned his back on me and left in anger.

After his departure, I stayed in the same place where he left me, searching inside me, trying to find something that would remain standing. Unfortunately, I couldn’t see anything because everything was gone, like what I am to him. “Nothing,” I whispered.

∞∞∞

After a while, when I could finally move, I could drag my feet across the room to the bed. When I got there, I laid my head on the pillow and closed my eyes. My poor eyes were so dry that I believe I was still in shock, and my moves were instinctive. I did not know what was wrong with me. I do not feel a thing, considering that my life as I know it is over, and in the most terrible way. Moreover, I think that this rejection is more painful than death.

Well, death is unavoidable, the body is gone, but the memories and spirits remain. What if your spirit dies, but your body is still alive? What comes next? Now, without Terry, what am I going to do? “Terry,” I couldn’t help but whisper his name before I fell asleep from exhaustion.

∞∞∞

I woke up to the sound of someone knocking softly on the door.

“Who is it?” I asked.

“It’s me, Sandra, Marta, can I come in?” Marta asked me kindly, as usual, but I discovered her genuine face.

With a soft “Yes,” I answered.

She opened the door slowly, carrying a tray with food in her hands.

Fixing my gaze on her, I asked her, “What’s wrong? Why did you bring all this to my room?”

“Terry asked me to bring you your meals here. He told me you were not feeling well and that you would stay in your room all day.”

Hearing her words, I felt a terrible blow to my chest. Desolation and despair ate my insides, but I said nothing. I nodded my head, confirming Terry’s instructions.

My Terry, in a few hours, will stop being mine because I won’t go for his words? He is not mine any more, and of course, he doesn’t want me to leave this room. Terry must want everything to be perfect for this big day, and it won’t be perfect with me there. I wouldn’t be present for anything in the world, anyway. “If you need anything else, you need to ask me.”

Marta confirmed my thoughts. “I know it is difficult for you. We all know it. But at this moment, we all have to be together, so things will end up well. This will benefit us all in the long run. Be brave, Sandra. Everything is going to work out, and when you look back and remember how you felt, you will realize how ridiculous and useless it was. Eat your food, and don’t make me worry about you, since I have plenty of things to do. Terry and the boys are getting ready now. There is little left for all the guests to arrive.”

Kissing my forehead, and turning her back to me, Marta leaves my room.

Oh, the joy of her words. A few months ago, I could have believed her, but not now. What a disappointment. It breaks my heart to know that for all of them; I am an accessory only to keep Terry happy. Bunch of double faces. With a heartbreaking cry, I threw the tray of food into the air. “Traitors, EVERYONE!”

Sandra

After Marta’s visit, no one came to see how I was doing. Alone, and abandoned, that is how I felt by the people I believed were my family. A beautiful illusion that ended, most bitterly, called betrayal. Thinking about him and her together, another part of my heart emptied.

After a while of contemplating the ceiling, I decided to stop. I walked to my desk, where I had a photo of Terry and me. I remember when I took it. It was a beautiful day. I remember those times as the best of my relationship with him. Best times ever. But I took this on the university campus, where we were studying.

The grass was wet because it had rained the day before, and the area was muddy. But we wanted to cut the distance and get to our class fast. Helpless to do anything, Terry flew back, falling on his butt. I thought it was the day I laughed the most because his backside was completely dirty.

“Ha, ha, ha!” This memory made me laugh. I remember it very well. Taking immediately out my mobile, I started taking pictures of him. Thereafter, he had no choice but to smile at the camera. How beautiful his smile is, my Terry. The past is now so far, away that it seems it never happened. More than ever, I must stop remembering it. Knowing what will happen in a few more minutes, it no longer has a point.

Deciding to take a hot bath, I hoped to get rid of all the pain in my soul. I turned on the hot water, turning the tap until it almost burned my skin, letting it fall on me until it was a deep red colour. Because I wanted to punish myself, all this was my failure. It was because of me, he was no longer mine. I need to pay for that. I am guilty of everything. Not only him, but everyone turned their back on me, too. That means it was me.

With that realization, something icy ran through my back. I did not deserve even the slightest consideration from anyone. He was right. I am nothing, nobody, simply, I am not worth it.

Facing this reality, the tears ran wild without stopping, wetting my cheeks and my neck. Shouting and shouting and shouting more, I tried to erase my mind until I was speechless and breathless. I cursed my life; I cursed my love; I cursed everyone; I cursed him, too.

∞∞∞

The hours passed, and I was still in the bathroom, sitting on the toilet seat, with only a towel covering my body. I stayed there without thinking about anything.

The emptiness was floating around my head, I could not even think about how to get dressed. Not even what I would do tomorrow. But I was sure of one thing: I had to see with my own eyes the exact moment when Terry would kill the remains of our fairy tale, and everything he represents in my life. At least, I will give myself that. Seeing it, I bet it will help me not to fool myself any more with delusional fantasies.

Gathering all the willpower I had left, I stood up and went to the wardrobe. I only took out my underwear, socks, a pair of shorts, a simple T-shirt, and my trainers. I let my hair dry by itself without even bothering to brush it.

Now, is when my legs shook, contemplating approaching that window.

“Be brave, Sandra,” I said to myself, “Yes, you can. Stand up and go.” With that little self-talk, I went to the window. Knowing what I would see through, it would shatter any hope that might remain. With a trembling hand, I pulled the curtain open, greeted by the most magnificent view I had ever seen. There it was, the Kensington mansion’s garden. It was more beautiful than ever. Surrounded by beautiful flower arrangements, decorating the hallways. Small spotlights tinkling on the ceiling give a fairy-like atmosphere.

They pruned the grass with the liveliest green my eyes have ever seen. As well, as redesigned the surrounding bushes in a spiral cut, one after the other, making a spherical pattern. They also decorated these bushes with little twinkling lights around them. And these beautiful white flower beds? Someone went through a lot of trouble to make them. At the reception, you can see an army of servers attending the guestless. All kinds of treats for the guests, with the best drinks money, can buy. I saw rows of perfectly arranged chairs lined in white, with a lilac bow adorning the back. In the centre of the garden stood an imposing arch, decorated with thousands of white roses. It was magnificent.

Behind this arch, you could see a podium, where a priest was waiting patiently for the bride to arrive. Alex and Frank, Terry’s brothers, were on the right side of the podium, well-dressed in tuxedos that screamed money all over the place, wearing Prada shoes too. Marta was sitting in the front row, neatly, wearing a long purple dress, making her look smart and kind at the same time. But I know it’s a costume, all of them are wearing their costumes. Turning my head a little, I focused my eyes on a vision that took my breath away. The groom, there he was, beautiful, like an image taken from a fairy story. Immaculate, I had never seen him like this. I had not been lucky enough until now.

He felt my gaze, probably, because he turned in the direction where I was. I could do nothing else but hold my breath. My pulse raced as I saw his beautiful face. There was the groom, my Terry, and the bride was not me.

Carefully, withdraw myself from the window so as not to generate any movement that could give me away and be seen. I waited for him to turn his face away. When he did, I could breathe again. Today is the day when Terry Kensington will marry Susan Ramsey. The woman who counts. A worthwhile woman. The one who is something, and the only one who deserves respect. I do not. That is why the bride is her. That is why I am behind a window, discarded and abandoned, watching how the love of my life marries another.

Any other woman in my place would try to do something. Calling the firefighters, the police, or something. But not me. A woman like me, who is nothing, who deserves nothing, who has nothing. No, I would not. What would be the purpose? What would be the case? To fight for a man who is not mine? Who decided that I wasn’t enough? A man who does not want to be with, and who did not choose me?

The sound of the wedding march interrupted my destructive thoughts, “Here comes the bride”. All present, upon hearing this, turned their heads with curiosity to see the bride, walking straight into the arms of her beloved, taking her time, savouring the moment. The groom was no exception, and when glances collided, he sent her a beautiful, welcoming smile. A warm reception.

A few steps later, the father of the bride, and the bride, reached the podium, where the groom was waiting. Mr. Ramsey, with pride on his face, gave the groom the hand of his beloved daughter. He descended from the podium, joining Mrs. Ramsey and her other two other daughters, after exchanging a few words with Terry. After taking the bride’s hand so delicately, the groom put all his attention on the priest.

Watching in silence from the window everything that was happening, there was me. I couldn’t hear anything, but I guess at that moment they were reciting the sacred vows of marriage.

Alex approached the podium, holding a small cushion on which two beautiful rings were resting. The groom took one, placing it on the elegant finger of the bride. When he finished, the bride did the same. Then the groom revealed the happy and radiant bride’s face. My mouth tasted blood. I realized at that moment that I was biting my tongue. My eyes were tired, filled with despair.

But my attention again lost track, when the groom leaned down to reach the lips of his beloved. The kiss was sweet, calm, and serene.

When they parted from each other’s lips, the two looked into each other’s eyes, as if there was no one around. At that moment, I knew what death felt like. I realized the little heat left in my body was violently and mercilessly extinguished by strong winds of treason, murdered, along with my hopes and illusions.

But he was dead too, dead to me now, and he will remain dead.

Terry

After leaving Sandra’s room pissed as hell, I went to my office. Tons of things are to take care of. I don’t have time to worry about hurting her right now. “Shit, shit, shit!” Why the hell did I say that to her? Why wasn’t I thinking? My poor baby, how much I apologize for all this.

This situation is more difficult than I thought. I hated myself for hurting her, but I didn't see that coming from her. I shouldn’t have said and done what I said to her. This is crushing my heart, too. Unfortunately, I couldn’t stop myself this time.

My head is like a pressure cooker, and her words freaked me out. The stress is making me blind. If I could, I would avoid this entire situation. But something crucial is at stake, and I can’t let anyone get in the way.

Sandra has always been following me and supported me in everything. This should not be the exception because she knows I love her. She has to know that. I have always shown her my love. But this time, I need her trust and her support, more than ever. Sadly, I can see that this is not going my way. She doesn’t show any signs of getting it. I’d like to tell her what’s going on, but my hands are tight. I can’t. Too tired all ready to fight this. I can’t trust her with the information that will make her go crazy.

My blood boils to remember what she told me, and without thinking, I vent my anger on her. I should have restrained myself, no matter what. Tomorrow is an essential day, and I cannot allow anything or anyone to ruin it. Nothing can go wrong.

Heading over to my desk, I pull out all the pending issues that require attention no later than tomorrow morning. That’s why I’m so stressed. Everything has to be perfect. This is the event I’ve been waiting for since Mr Ramsey and I negotiated the merger of the two companies. The benefits would be innumerable. But, I have to fall low to get them. One of the most important clauses in this deal is the marriage we will contract, unfortunately to me. That I couldn’t avoid.

Susan Ramsey, the representative of the Ramsey companies. I, the representative of Kensington Enterprises. There are three main clauses. The first is this arranged marriage. The second is a baby born between us. The heir will only have possession of everything at 25. Meanwhile, the assets, actions, and decisions will be decided by the Kensington-Ramsey family, in particular, Terry Kensington, me. This looks terrible, I know that, but it is the only way to recover the heart of this house.

The sound of someone knocking on the door took me out of my reflection. With an exasperated voice, I let them in. “Terry, I have to talk to you. I know you are extremely busy now, but if you don’t listen to what I have to tell you, you will regret it tomorrow. I know you, and I know you’ll lose your mind when you realize it.”

“Frank, what could be so important that you cannot wait? A shitload of things to do is waiting for me, and I don’t have time to waste. Ha! Tell me?” With impatience clear in my tone, I replied.

“It’s very critical. More than you think, and you have to hear it, wanting it or not.” Frank’s eyes twinkled, before continuing, “It’s about Sandra.” Hearing Sandra’s name coming out of my brother’s mouth made my heart stop in panic. “What’s wrong with Sandra? Is she okay? Where is she?”

“Calm down, Terry. Physically, she is fine, and in her room. But mentally, I think she will not make it.” He paused a bit, chewing his lip, and at the same time, his eyes contorted with anger. “You, fucker, I listened to the conversation you had with her a while ago, and hearing her begging you like that broke my soul. You know she is my…my… She’s like a sister to me, and to everyone in this house. I cannot even imagine the damage she is suffering from all this right now. But, for fuck’s sake, Terry, the way you treated her was the most disgusting thing I have ever heard in my life.”

I bowed my head in shame. Yes, I regret it. It was the worst and the wrong thing to say to my love. I wish I could take it all back. I don’t know what came over me and made me react like that. I fuking hate myself for it with passion.

“What happened to you, Terry? Why did you do it? Don’t you see she is suffering, and a lot?” Frank’s saliva reached my face from the forceful way he was speaking.

“Have you noticed that her eyes no longer reflect the happiness of before? From the day they came to this house, and after she found out, she started to disappear. You’ve noticed it, Terry, haven’t you? She smiles no more. Now, tell me, if this is not important enough, and you can wait as long as you consider necessary.”

I’ve never seen Frank talk so emotionally before. “Of course, it is important, Frank. You know she is my life, and of course, I care about her. I love her with all my heart. That is why I’m so torn. It should have been her, and not Susan. In dreams, and in my head, Sandra is always there, wearing my ring, always. Don’t pretend to be a fool. You know why I am doing all this, and I have already discussed this topic with her thousands of times. I have tried to make her see from our perspective. But that does not happen. She would rather not see it. My heart is bleeding because of what I am putting her through. I hate myself, Frank. But this is something huge for all of us.”

I explained the same thing a thousand times. This is not the first occasion that I have discussed this issue with Sandra, and despite my efforts to convince her it is the best for everyone, I have not had luck with that.

“From our perspective? Do not include me in that. I am not in favour of this stupid union. You do not love her, and she doesn’t love you. The most incredible thing about all this is that you have agreed to bring a baby into the world. For what? For your selfishness. What kind of parents do that? I’ll tell you. The kind of parents who abandon their children with the staff, to bring them up. The kind of parents who sign their children to gain benefits.”

He left me speechless. When listening to Frank speak like that, what he is saying is true. But I do not intend to adhere to that clause. Sandra will be the only woman carrying my children. But since I’m soulless in my field, I didn’t reach this point in vain. This marriage will not last for long. Frank should have known this by now. However, yes, I will keep all the benefits.

“Terry, think if it were the other way around. What would you do if Sandra came with a story like this, and a fiancé hanging from her arm?”

I stood up, hitting my palms over my desk. “No, that will never happen.” I will kill her before someone touches her. And whoever dares to touch her, will receive a very slow death, that wishes he had never been born.

Frank nodded his head as if knowing what I was thinking. “Yes! I understood clearly, but did you understand what I said? You would kill someone to prevent something like this from happening. But that is you. Sandra would kill no one, and less of all you. She would do nothing to hurt you. Unfortunately, she is not receiving the same courtesy. Do you think she is made of stone and everything will be OK in the future? That you will call her after, and she will come back happy, with open arms? The love of her life is currently planning the last details of his wedding, and with someone who is not her. Hey! Can you understand what I’m trying to tell you? She should be everything to you. She is worth it. Tell her that before she believes what you said to her.”

With that, Frank left my office, and me, with a heavy heart. I know my baby is suffering. It is all my fault. I hope this turns out as I am planning, so this will end as soon as possible. I will compensate her for every tear shed. Not only that, but I know her heart has always been with me, and with this family. I know she will do her best to make us happy. That’s the woman that I fell in love with. Whatever the result is, I will never allow her to leave me. She is my woman, and she will remain that way until the moment that life leaves our body.

“My baby, this will be hard, especially for you because you don't understand why I’m doing it. Forgive me for what I’m going to put you through. But I swear, my love, that I will bring you back. I know I will lose your love for a while, and I will regain it without fail. Even if I have to be the cruellest, the dirtiest, the kindest, or most gentle. Even if you hate me, I swear you will return to me, body, and soul, and I don’t break my oaths.” With a voice full of determination, I made that promise.

Terry

The Ramsey family has been living here, for a month now, in The Kensington’s mansion. We agree on this because the wedding preparations will be easy to arrange. They all are in the west wing. All rooms have the best, with all the necessities someone could need. The Ramsey couple got a room overlooking the pool. We equipped their balcony with an outdoor Jacuzzi and breakfast area.

Susan was in a single room. But with the luxuries and comforts that money can buy. It also has a view of the pool, and part of the gardens.

The twin sisters, Carly and Bryanna, chose to stay together in the same room, overlooking the garden. We made sure they missed nothing.

All my staff are well aware and know how important my guests are. So, they are being treated like royalty. In a way, in the corporate world, they are.

Since I asked Sandra to move in with me, we always slept in the same room. Sharing everything. For 4 years, I have enjoyed her presence every day, and every night. She has won everyone’s sympathy with her charm and kindness, not only me.

Her exaggerated eagerness to keep everyone happy is irritating occasionally. But not when she does it for me. I let her pamper me, and at the same time, I know she loves doing it. That’s my Sandra. And after thinking all this, and knowing the terrible way I hit her for the first, I loathe myself.

It’s when I told her, she had to go to another room because we would have some very influential visitors and business partners. I told her my intentions were to maintain certain appearances because we weren’t married. Furthermore, I was not surprised when she gave me a sad smile. She said not to worry about her, that the important thing was my reputation and our family’s. I still remember it as if she were whispering it in my ear at this precise moment. “My love, everything will be fine. You will see. They will love you and will be so satisfied with you on this visit. I’ll see to it, and make it happen,” My throat closes remembering it. The burning sensation in my stomach threatened to make me vomit. But I carried on, remembering.

The next disappointment I gave her was when the Ramsey family arrived. I introduced her as my trusted employee, and she would be around if they needed her. The radiant smile on her face disappeared the moment I finished saying those words. But she managed to pull out a fake one within seconds. Lowering her head a bit, she introduced herself only as Sandra. She offered her help and told them to count on her for whatever they desired. With that, she turned around and left, leaving me there, with them.

Seeing her leave, I realized the sadness that my baby was going through. The same sadness I was carrying.

The next blow happened the moment Sandra entered the living room, and saw us together. Susan was on my lap. The terrible truth is that not even I could help it. Susan came out of nowhere and sat on me unexpectedly. And unfortunately for me, it was the moment when Sandra was passing by. I could even see how the beautiful bright-green colour of her eyes faded. Of course, she did not say anything. She hurried her pace, as fast as possible, leaving the room, and heading for the stairs, until she was out of sight. The fifth blow happened when Susan complained about Sandra’s terrible service (which wasn’t true). Of course, she demanded I act on the matter, since Sandra was my employee, supposedly. I had to keep order and discipline. My Sandra ended up washing the floor of the event room manually and on her knees. That was Susan’s suggestion for a good punishment. It took her 4 hours to finish it this way. My baby did it, and she put up with everything just for me because she loves me.

The sixth time, it was terrible. My chest hurts remembering her look full of reproach, pain, and betrayal. Sandra saw me coming out of Susan’s room, buttoning my shirt. It caught me like a deer in front of headlights. Susan appeared behind me semi-naked, hugging me from the back, “Oh! Terry, don’t go. We can have more fun if you stay.” She told me almost purring in front of Sandra. When I heard that, my eyes turned black with rage. Not only because of what Susan said. But because I have been caught red-handed. Losing my mind, I ended up yelling at Sandra in a threatening tone, “Don’t come here ever, Sandra. I forbid you from being around her.” I order Sandra to leave, and not appear in the west wing for any reason.

People say that the eyes are the window to the soul. That you can see the inside of a person through them. I swear, at that moment, I couldn’t agree more with that saying. I saw through her eyes that something inside her was breaking into pieces.

The next time was when she learned the truth. The reason for their presence in the Kensington mansion. I did not dare to tell her in person. I was a coward. But that decision was taken away from my hands when Sandra overheard a conversation between Susan and her sisters. They were talking about the preparations for the wedding. Sandra already knew that there would be a wedding. But she never knew that the groom would be me. How could she? This was the last detail finally revealed to smash her trust in me.

Remembering that moment makes me cry inside. There was a commotion in the corridors that I heard while in my office. I ran out of there without wasting time. Then approached to see what it was about, and there was Sandra. My eyes couldn’t open more in surprise. She was lying on the floor, unconscious. My pulse sped up to a thousand. Everyone was standing around her, doing nothing. I managed to see my brother Frank pushing his way through the crowd to help her. He checked her pulse and her head for any blows.

After making sure Sandra wasn’t in any danger, Frank raised his head and looked at everyone with disgust in his eyes. He shouted with all his might, “Why didn’t any of you help her? Who do you think you are? We all know very well what she would do for each one of us if the situation were daring.” With those words, Frank took Sandra gently, and delicately in his arms, and carried her to her room.

I could not believe what had just happened. It was alarming, the resentment and disappointment I was feeling for myself. It was too much to bear. I didn’t help the woman I love, and that hit me hard. My baby needed me, and I was here, standing like an idiot, doing nothing. And all that to maintain appearances with the Ramsey. A very lame excuse. The next one was the day before the wedding. With a face full of pain and anguish, Sandra begged me repeatedly not to do it. We still have time, she said, for me to think about how much she loved me, and about the future that we could have together. And what I did to all that, was tell her she was only a hot hole to fuck. I saw how another break formed in her soul. I will make myself pay for her suffering.

This last month, I heard everything, and I saw everything. She is an open book to me. I can read her emotions easily. I know what she is thinking, and I also knew the damage I was doing to her. Me, her love. I was the one destroying her noble soul. The heart that would die for me without thinking twice. All because of money? Power? But it was too late, I had to continue with this until the end.

I knew it was going to be very painful, and I would have to do detestable things that I would be disgusted with myself. My Sandra, love, I’m sorry. And what about when I said, “I do” in front of a priest, and full of witnesses? Then the kiss that sealed our fate? When the party ended late, I was exhausted, and full of anguish and worry. Sandra was constantly on my mind. It was more likely the guilt. But more than anything, it was like a feeling. The connection she and I have is beyond physical. We could think and feel things at the same time. We knew each other so well, that it is as if we were synchronized. It was how close we were.

I was also worried to know that I would have to face her tomorrow. And even worse, after spending the night with my now wife. How am I going to face her? What can I do to avoid this confrontation? I cannot leave her in those conditions; what will happen tomorrow, is inevitable.

Terry

The next day, I woke up disoriented when I saw blond hair resting on my chest, instead of the light brown that I adore so much, with no waves to wrap around my fingers. Pain pierced my heart when I realized that she was not Sandra, my Sandra. I closed my eyes again, wondering how she was doing.

How am I going to handle this? I need to talk to her. But after the wedding, it will be pretty difficult. All I know is that I must be prepared for everything. I have a strange feeling that I will not get out of this well. But I have to do this.

I pushed Susan’s head from my chest, got up in silence, and went to the bathroom to do my morning routine. After having a shower, I went to the room to get dressed. Susan was still asleep. Taking advantage of this, I got dressed as soon as possible and walked out. Leaving my room, I went to the kitchen, hoping to see everyone having breakfast or coffee as usual. That’s what we always do. But there was only Marta and Alex. So, I went to them.

“Good morning to all. Is something new, so far? And where are the rest?” I couldn’t help but ask. Marta greeted me with a kiss, “Good morning, Terry. How was your night? I hope you haven’t had much rest if you know what I mean.” With a suggestive grin in her mouth, she told me. It is too early for this! Taking a deep breath, I replied, “Do not ask things that don’t concern you, Marta. But I am very well, thank you. Now, I would like an answer to my question,” I replied while looking at Alex.

“Not much, really. The party went on for a while after you left. Nothing new or interesting. Everyone left, except the Ramsey. You know they’re leaving with you today, right?” With an annoying expression on his face, Alex informed me. But he continued, “And today, I have not seen anyone else. Most likely, they are all asleep, or with a hangover. I have not seen Frank since yesterday, nor Sandra, if that is what you want to know.”

“Well, if there is nothing new, it is fine. You know that I am leaving today, so Marta, I need you to have everything prepared for my departure. And Alex, yesterday, I finished all the company’s issues, and whatever you require, is on the desk. You are in charge while I’m not here. Please don’t mess up because I would rather not come back and correct your mistakes.”

With that said, I left the kitchen thinking about how to speak with Sandra, and what to do next. I have to harden my heart to be able to do this. And with that thought in mind, I made my way to Sandra’s room. I spent like five minutes in front of her door, debating how to do this in the most kindly way.

Sandra must be pretty upset, and sad. It is not my intention to hurt her more than I have already done. So, I knocked on the door, and after spending a few seconds without hearing anything, I decided to open it. I turned the handle. But it was locked. Sandra never locks the doors. That only indicated the severity of the problem. My baby is closing herself to me. It saddens my soul, knowing that I caused all this, and she is suffering because of me.

I knocked on the door louder, thinking she was still asleep. But nothing. “Sandra, please, open the door. I need to talk to you,” I said in a soft voice. Nothing. So, I knocked harder this time, and raised my voice, “Sandra, open the door. I need to talk to you. Please, I don’t have all day. I must leave in the afternoon.” I waited, like the patient man that I wasn’t for her response. But nothing again. I was knocking louder this time, demanding she opens the door, “Open the door right now. Now!” My temper began to skyrocket.

After a few more screams, the door opened. And there she was, my Sandra, standing in front of me. I was surprised to see her so calm. I was waiting for all kinds of reactions, screams, tears, and reproaches. But not this. Her face was blank. I wouldn't know what she was thinking. That makes my heart tremble with fear.

“What do you want?” It is the first thing I heard coming out of her mouth. Her voice was the same. But it no longer carried the warmth, care, and understanding that she always offered me. It was flat and cold.

I was silent for a few moments, lost in my discovery, and then, I heard her again. “I ask you what you want? I suppose you have to say something if you have been in front of that door for a while. So, tell me, Terry, what is it? I have no responsibility to fulfill here any longer. But again, what do you possibly want now? Or, what could be the reason for you to be here?”

After hearing her speak, I stood there, like stupid. It was as if I had lost my speech. I felt a torrent of lava rise through my veins, reaching my head. My mind was experiencing something that I didn't know how to call it. I cannot allow this, no matter the reason. Sandra knows who I am to her, and what she is to me. I won’t tolerate that challenge. Not from Sandra.

With clenched teeth, and trying to contain my terrible anger and panic, I replied, “You are wrong. You have all the responsibilities to fulfil. You are my woman! And you live under my roof. I won't allow you to pull away from me. You need to open your blind eyes. Do you understand?” I almost had foam in my mouth from the incredible rage.

“Your woman? Ha, ha, ha, ha! Please, Terry. No more jokes. Let me think.” Sandra crossed her arms over her chest, and with a mocking expression, she replied, “Mm. Your woman is in your room right now, in your bed, or so I think. I am not a person who likes to get involved in others’ business, and much less, I am responsible for their lives. That would correspond to you, as her husband. And well, as for the part of living under your roof, I have an easy way to solve it. As you can see,” pointing her finger towards the bed, I followed it.

“I already have my bags packed. I would not want to cause any misunderstanding among the newly-weds. And that, Terry, is something I won’t do.”

The moment I was going to open my mouth to correct her, her phone rang. Sandra went to the dressing table with all the calm in the world. That’s where she always leaves it charging. Disconnecting the power cord, I saw how she slid her finger to accept the call. “Yes?” I hear her say, “I will be there in a minute, yeah, thanks,” Sandra ended the call.

“Terry, I would rather no longer waste your precious time. I have to go. Someone is waiting for me downstairs, right now. You know very well that I hate making people wait.”

With that, she grabbed her bags, turned around, and left the room. I was stunned. I did not listen well. Did she say she would go? Where? While I was thinking about all this, Sandra was already going down the stairs.

Marta and Alex were in the living room discussing something when they saw Sandra pass by. “Good morning, Sandra, I hope you feel better. I made breakfast for….” Marta only managed to say this because she was cut abruptly by Sandra. “No, Marta. Don’t you dare to talk to me, EVER.”

My baby had never spoken to her like this. Astonished, Martha stood still. Alex for his part blinked, watching the show. Sandra walked to the door without even bothering with anyone. Opening it wide, then pointing to her phone, saying, “No more calls, Terry. Nothing.” With that said, she slammed the door behind her, leaving me confused, and empty, with a sadness that I won’t wish for anyone.

Panic enveloped my heart. I saw the end in front of me, and I'm helpless. This was not happening. My Sandra, my baby, the love of my life was leaving me! It is not true! It was not possible. I need to do something. I was about to chase after her when images of my father popped into my head, and then, I stopped.

When I recovered from the impact and regained my composure, I looked at everybody. Marta and Alex were open-mouthed, completely surprised by this. They were waiting for my reaction.

“This is only temporary. It is good that she is not here while I am on my honeymoon. It is the best for everyone. This will help her think things better,” with that said, I turned around, and went straight to my office.

Terry

Once there, I went to the canteen searching for something strong. Something to help me think about my next move. Honestly, I did not expect this. I had never known this side of her. But as much as I search in my memories, I cannot think of a time when she would not have been kind and submissive. NO! Sandra could not have given up on us. Is she so defeated until the point of erasing me for her life? No, no, no. Never, never her.

Sandra, my love. You vow to be with me. You promised it. I closed my eyes, breathing deeply, trying to recover my sanity. I needed to think, and after a while of spinning all kinds of scenarios in mine, I came out with only one conclusion.

“No, that won't do, Sandra. Did you really think it would be so easy? All this time with me, and you didn’t learn anything? Maybe, your love for me is gone right now, and you would rather not see me again. But, my love, how naive you are. I’m never going to lose you. You are my heart. You are what I adore and want the most in this world.”

The sound of someone knocking on the door snapped me out of my trance. “Come in,” I coldly replied. “Terry, you and Susan are leaving for the airport in two hours. Your flight is scheduled to take off at 15:30. Your luggage and everything you need is ready, and put in the car. The only thing left to do are Susan’s things, so I suggest you handle this with her,” Alex told me.

“Mm! I’ll see it with her as soon as I’m done talking to you.” Looking him in the eyes, I continue, “Alex, I need you to take care of something else apart from the company, and you can’t fail me on this. Do you hear me?” I told him with all the seriousness that this case requires.

“What is the thing you want me to do? Although I can imagine who it is, because of what happened a while ago,” Wow, Alex, nothing passes to you.

“Yes, it is about Sandra, of course. There is nothing more important to me at the moment than her.”

Writing Sandra’s home address on a piece of paper, I said to Alex the following, “This is her address, here, in the city. I want you to contact Carson immediately. Make him aware of the situation. Tell him I want him on top of her twenty-four hours a day, every day. I need her well monitored. Moreover, ask him to elaborate on a report of all her activities, places she visits, and even the things she buys. Whatever she does, says, eats, who she talks to, or how she dresses. I want it all, every aspect of her life. I want him to report it to me.”

I want to be the one doing it, but it's impossible, I have to fly to Paris for the most important event. But going back to Alex, “Tell him, too, I hope he will fulfill this task without errors. I do not want excuses. He knows what would happen if he fails me. As well, he also must assign two bodyguards for her protection. In the same way, warn them that if a single beautiful hair is plucked from her head, I will kill them for this. And be certain he hired the best.”

Alex, obviously nervous, answered, “Yes, sure, it will be done as you say. Have a good trip, brother.” With that said Alex turned around to leave the office. But before he walked through the door, I added, “Alex, do not fail me.”

Without turning back, he only nodded, closing the door behind him. Now, I have to deal with Susan. After another glass of whiskey, I decided to hurry with this. I went to my room, where my wife was still placidly asleep. What a waste of time. As I approached the bed, I sat on it, having some seconds to observe the woman that now shares my name.

Susan Ramsey is a completely spoiled and capricious girl. She is physically beautiful, we all know that. She is young, very young. 3 years younger than Sandra, and 9 years younger than me. At 31, I know I’m older by far. Making her look like my little sister instead of my wife.

My Sandra is 6 years younger than me. But she has an ancient soul. When I met her, I was surprised at how well she dealt with people. It’s a skill I do not own. She is adored by everyone from the first moment someone speaks to her. She is a star that draws everyone to her light. Susan has beautiful straight blonde hair, is very fashionable, and many would kill to have it like her.

But my Sandra has the brightest and most divine curls. Every so often when we are in bed, doing nothing, just lying down, enjoying one another, I have the fascination of wrapping her curls around my fingers. It is so relaxing to see how they roll on my fingers. My love, I already miss you so much.

Back to reality, I have to wake her up and make sure she’s ready. We need to leave on time. “Susan, Susan. Wake up, it’s about time.” Nothing, well, I’ll have to insist more on this, shaking her arms harder.

“Susan,” I called her name again.

“What? What’s wrong?” She answers me, upset. “Nothing, only that it is already late, and you are still asleep. Remember, we have a flight to take, and I need all your things to be ready as soon as possible. Do you understand?”

“Oh, yes, I’m sorry, sorry. But I’m not used to getting up so early. But thanks for telling me. Could you call Sandra to pack all my things, and help my parents and sisters too, please? She should be the one being pushed around, not me” With that said, she got out of bed and headed for the bathroom. Leaving me sitting there, furious, with murderous thoughts.

I ordered two maids to help the Ramsey with their belongings for the trip. Unfortunately, they would be travelling with us, on our supposed “honeymoon.” The family thought it was a good idea to travel together. According to them, it is to get to know each other better. But with them on my heels, it’s going to be a bit difficult to do what I originally planned.

An hour later, we were all ready to go. The Ramsey said goodbye to everyone and went to the limousine that was waiting for us. Susan was next to me, waiting for me to finish with instructions.

“Why don’t you wait for me with your family in the limousine? I’m going to instruct them on something.” Referring to Alex, and Marta. Nodding her head, she said goodbye to everyone and went to the limousine to wait with her family.

Once I made sure we were alone, I spoke to Marta. “I’ll be back in a week. I want the driver to be sent to the airport to pick us up when we come back. The Ramsey will not come back with us, only Susan and me. On our return, from the trip, I want the guest room that Susan was using ready. All her things that will come with the move must be there.”

Marta looks at me with eyes of disbelief. “How? I don’t understand. Won’t you share the same room? After all, you got married,” Marta asks me in dismay.

“No, Marta, we are not going to share the same room. I don’t have to explain that to you. Just do what I asked,” I replied, without bothering with her any more.

“And what about Sandra? When will she return?” She asked, and I answered with discomfort, “Not at the moment.” With that said, I turned around, leaving the house to meet with the Ramsey.

We got to the airport without major inconvenience. Susan and the twins talked non-stop all the way there. I was fed up with Mr Ramsey, telling me about his next business deal. Hell! How I wanted to be somewhere else. The only thing on my mind was Sandra. I was feeling her absence already. It’s going to be hell to be without her.

But this will be worth the suffering. The good thing is that I have a whole life to ask her for forgiveness. The plane left at exactly 3:30 pm, heading to Paris. Mrs Ramsey did not stop praising my good taste. She told me it was very romantic of me to take her daughter on her honeymoon to Paris, the city of love, and that it’s the least that someone like Susan deserves. Blah blah blah!

The purpose of coming to Paris is not to be romantic or to please Susan’s whims. I have more important things to do, such as the meeting that I scheduled with the owner of the Bolt Company. There are many things that I have to discuss with him. Now that I am the new CEO of Kensington-Ramsey, no one can turn me down.

Sandra

I don’t know what to do now. “What do I do, God, what do I do?” No matter how many times I’m telling myself that everything will be fine, this damn pain keeps overflowing like rivers non-stop, without giving me a break, without mercy. Pain is the only thing I know now. It is the only thing I see, it is the only thing I feel, it is the only thing he has fed me these last weeks. I already recognize its taste. I know its texture, and I know how it feels when it reaches my stomach. I am sick with pain.

After leaving the house, a taxi was waiting for me at the entrance. I was about to give him the address of my family home, but something stopped me. Probably me, refusing to go to a place where I have plenty of memories. Not from Terry. But from my parents. I want something new, nothing to do with anything in this city.

That damn man, who did not hesitate to trample me. That damn who did not know how to keep his word. That traitor and, with him, all his damn houses. So, I end up telling the driver to take me to the next town. It took us 4 hours to get there. After a while of being on the road, we passed by an advertisement for cars on sale. This advertisement had as a background a beautiful forest. Suddenly, I had the most wonderful idea ever. I told the driver to drop me off near the car sales agency.

After I paid for the trip, and took my suitcases out of the boot, and with that little spark of hope born in me, I gathered the necessary courage to continue with what I was planning.

Two hours later, I came out of the car dealer and left with a new car. I had to pay with cash for obvious reasons, and using cash at these times caused too many suspicions. But I had to do it this way. I would rather not leave a trace to follow. No one will bother me.

There is no one else in the world now for me. I realized that I was alone in this, and all because of me. Not only that, but I was the one who decided to surrender totally, and completely, without reservation. Idiot that I was. But no more. That dream was ruthlessly crushed by the same person to whom I gave it all. I will stop thinking about him because this is my time now, my moment, and I will take advantage of it without thinking.

“OK,” I said to myself. Sandra, you have this. With my new car, I headed back to the road, to start my new life. Then I thought that I would need many things. Where to start? Well, I just have to gather all the equipment and things I require. Keeping this in mind, I went to the nearest department store. Arriving at the place, I went to the section where I would find what I was looking for. This is one of the most difficult tasks I have come across. “Camping” is what I am looking for, and because I have no clue what to buy, I turned to an unoccupied saleswoman.

“Could you help me to get everything I need to be out in the open for a few weeks?” The saleswoman made a funny face of disbelief. I imagine she was wondering how someone, who does not know anything about the outdoors, would dare to do something like this. “I can gladly help you. I want to know about the terrain, weather, and how long you plan to spend in the open field. Is that OK?”

OK? NO! I don’t know anything, but here I go, “Ha, ha, ha,” with a nervous laugh and a confidence that I don’t have, I replied, “Sure, of course, I know all that. First, the land is a forest, second, the weather is forest weather. And I need equipment around, Mm! Let me see, something like two months. Is that OK?”

Raising an eyebrow, the saleswoman replied, “Follow me.” I had never done this, and it is so exciting. I felt like a girl in a candy store. But deep down, I was trembling with fear.

The saleswoman suggested this, that, here, there, that, Puff. It is a lot. I never thought going camping was so complicated.

“Here, I am going to include a manual for beginners. It is not your case, but just keep it in mind. In it, you can find everything about building the equipment, knots, how to secure the tent, how to light a fire, keeping the fire on, using the harness, preparing the ground for the tent, etc.” OK. I am totally “not” ready for this.

With a smile, I nodded my head, letting her know that I thoroughly understood what she was implying. In a few words, I was “screwed”. But I was so determined to do this that nothing could make me change my mind. Since we finished selecting everything, she took me to the cashier to pay. I did it in cash, of course. I could only offer her a guilty smile.

Then, I was about to thank her and leave, when she suddenly said, “Wait.” Puzzled, I waited for her to finish writing something on a piece of paper. “When you get tired of camping,” Right! Arching her eyebrow, and giving me a suspicious look, she continued, “Call this phone number. He’s a friend, who has a beautiful little house deep in the woods, and is for rent.” My eyes immediately shone with an indescribable emotion. After thanking her with all my heart, I decided to call this number.

“Hello, Mr. White speaking,” an older man answered the call.

“Good afternoon, a friend gave me this phone number to ask about the house in the forest. I am genuinely interested in renting it for a few months. What do you say, is it available?” After hanging up the call with that kind gentleman, my next step would be to buy supplies. If everything goes according to my plans, I would need to buy a lot.

Going to the supermarket, I thought about what would be the best things to buy. What would be good? I plan to leave civilization for a while and restock from time to time. So, I made a list of goodies for a month. “Cans”, that is it. Cans for everything. It was not the healthiest. But the safest.

I started to fill the cart with all kinds of cans, canned vegetables, canned meat, tuna, sardines, Oh! Wait, no, no sardines. Soups, that’s good, canned fruit? OK. Walking through the whole store carrying this and that, I came to the drinks section. “Madness, I would have missed it.” How could I have forgotten about coffee? Many bags of coffee beans, boxes of tea, and powdered milk.

Half an hour later, I went to the cashier. Of course, my cart was overflowing, and of course, the cashier saw me funny. Already I was getting used to the glances. After paying and dealing with the packaging, I went to my car, heading to the gas station to fill the tank and buy extra containers of petrol. When I talked to Mr. White about renting the house, we agreed to meet in the dining area near the shopping centre. That is where I am, waiting for him.

The place looks so cozy, and the food smells divine. I took the liberty to order before he showed up because I was dying of hunger. Roast beef with guacamole and French fries. Who knows how long it will take for me to taste this again? I finished this exquisite meal, and I ended up ordering a slice of the orange loaf with chocolate on top, and a cappuccino with cinnamon. “Delicious,” I said aloud.

“Are you Sandra?” I heard my name and turned right away to see who it was. “Mr. White, I presume?” I counterattack.

“Yes, girl, I am Mr. White. Nice to meet you.” Getting up to give him a formal greeting, Mr. White stopped me in my tracks.

“No, no, don’t get up, everything is fine,” Oh! Nice gentleman. “Sure Mr. White, please take a seat,” I indicate politely.

“It is a pleasure to meet you, Mr. White. I am Sandra Robinson. Thank you very much for accepting my offer on such short notice.”

“Nice to meet you, Sandra. There was no problem for me to meet you here. And by the way, I was very bored at home, and going out to town would do me good. Well, and if it is about renting my house, I wouldn’t think twice.” With a bright smile, I thank him in silence.

We were talking about this, and that, for a long time. Mr. White is very impressive and deserves all my respect. After exchanging our contact information, and the address of the house, he asked me to accompany him to his car. When we reached there, he opened the boot, and I saw something that really surprised me. Taking a few steps back, I asked him very nervously, and hesitantly, “What do you want to show me, Mr. White?”

“This, my dear Sandra, is a hunting rifle. It would be superb if you took it. But allow me to explain why. Number one, there are wild animals, as you can imagine. Second, what if you run out of supplies, and you cannot come to town to stock up? This would help you hunt something small without a problem. It’s a registered weapon, and it’s all legally, and under control. I’m just lending it to you, during your stay.”

Wow! I’ve never seen one of these up close before, only on TV. Coming back from my internal dialogue, “I accept it with thanks. I must say, it’s a super great idea. I would not have thought of it in a million years.”

“Of course not, angel. Someone like you would not have to worry about things like that.” How sweet. With that said, we went our separate ways.

Getting in my car, I put the destination data in my GPS. The address was three hours' drive from where I was. I had to hurry if I would rather not end up driving at night. Forest and night are not a good combination. I wonder how people from the 80s and 90s travelled without GPS. I admit that I am terrible at directions, in fact, without this, I would never get there. Not only that but I could even get lost at home. That's how bad I am. Before leaving, I went to a gas station to buy a full supply of coffee for the road, and some packs of cookies that will do me good too.

Once this was done, I went on with my adventure. I had already spent an hour and a half on the way. But I was starting to get bored. I had finished all the music repertoire, finished the coffee, and some cookies, with nothing else to do but see the road. The least I wanted was to have an opportunity to think. Today was a wonderful day, like never. It was a complete challenge to do all this in my situation. Of course, I had little help, thanks to the beautiful saleswoman and Mr. White. I managed to stay so busy that I didn’t have time to think about him. At least today, I want to continue like this.

Sandra

Finally, in the distance, after going up and downhill and driving terrible roads that had my stomach upset, I saw a beautiful little house, as Mr. White described it. It was so beautiful that it took my breath away. It looked more like a cottage, like the ones you see in English movies. Those little country houses made of wood and stone. Hay! What a thrill!

Finally, in front of the house, I turned off the car engine. I took a brief look around because there was still a little light, so I was able to see. I got out of the car, thinking that this is a new beginning. My future depends on what I manage to solve during my stay here. I went to the door and took out the keys that Mr. White gave me.

The keyring only had three, tomorrow, I’ll see what the other two are for. When I entered, everything was dark, so with the light from my mobile, I started looking for the light switch. Mr. White told me the house had light thanks to solar panels, which is why I did not worry. So, with all the confidence in the world, I looked for them. I finally found one, and when I turned it on, the whole house lit up.

“Wow, how beautiful.” Laughing like a maniac, I was very satisfied with how incredible it was. I was a lucky woman to find a place like this, and to think I intended to spend days in the wild, what a creep. The house was tiny. But everything was here. The living room only had two small armchairs, a comfy sofa, and a coffee table in the centre. A lamp in one of the corners. On the other side of the wall, was a fireplace that could well be used for a Christmas postcard. That was all.

The kitchen was unbelievable. It had a table with benches in the shape of an “L” to fit the corner on the wall, like in restaurants. The stove was electric, and it already had years on it. Too small. But lovely.

The refrigerator was also small. However, certainly, I will manage. Most of my purchases are canes. Ha. The cans, I can fit them everywhere. I began to open the drawers and test that everything worked well. After investigating for a while, I began to fill the drawers with my things and accommodate the food in its place. I ended up half-dead. But I still had things to do, so I took the stairs, leading me to the room. Oh!

Wow! The second floor was a whole bedroom, with a bathroom. Small, really tiny. In fact, everything was small. The window was no exception. But when I opened the curtains to see outside, my jaw dropped. The view was incredibly beautiful. It was facing the back of the house, and I could see the mountains in the distance. Green trees everywhere. A true paradise.

Looking at this vision, my eyes watered. Thousands of emotions attacked me at that moment. All of them hitting me in one blow. My tears begin to spill. I cried and cried until there was no more tear left to shed. Tiredness hit me at that moment. I felt so weak. But with the little strength I had left, I locked the house and threw a blanket over me. The bed felt so comfortable, that I didn’t even realize at what moment passed I fell asleep.

“Do you like it, my love?” My Terry always has beautiful details, like this one. Croissants stuffed with almond paste. You only get them by special order, and the waiting list is huge, “Mm. Yes, you know that I can’t resist the temptation. They are delicious, thanks.” Suddenly, I looked at him suspiciously, and asked, “And what is this delicious surprise about? This smells fishy, or am I wrong?” I winked at him.

“What, am I not entitled to pamper my beautiful baby? You are thinking ill of me again. Your mistrust hurts me.” He complained, pretending to be hurt. “But tell me.” Getting closer, I began to caress his chest gently. I love to feel his beautiful chest hair between my fingers. It is something I will never get tired of. Terry lowered his head closer to my lips, I was ready to receive his kisses. But instead of that, he brought his mouth to my ear. Biting it lightly, he sent my blood to the head. With just one touch, he undoes me.

“Tomorrow is my wedding. I want you to be present, I lack staff to attend to the guests. The only one available, it’s you. My future wife and I would be truly grateful.”

That, “no, no, no, you don’t. You can marry anyone but me. You, you promised me. Terry, Terry, tell me it’s a joke, tell me!” The pleasure I was in, now, turned into hell. I couldn’t calm my heartbeat, then I started to break out in a cold sweat, with my head spinning. There was nothing I could do but stare into Terry's eyes.

“Marry you?” he asked me with a cruel smile. “What kind of idiot are you? Is it really worth marrying you when I have someone like Susan? She belongs to one of the most powerful families. She is gorgeous and young. What more could I ask for in a wife? But, look at you. How are you? I’m going to tell you what you are. NOTHING! You are NOTHING! Do a good thing, grab your things, and leave as soon as possible. You are useless. GET OUT! And never come back. Ha, ha, ha! Marry you ha, ha, ha!”

Suddenly, Alex, Marta, Frank, Susan, her family, and the house staff were throwing stones at me. “Get out of here,” Marta was screaming at me. “You have always been a good-for-nothing useless,” Alex was spitting out those words, “a nobody, get out.” All of them were yelling at me. “Help, please! Somebody! HELP!”

I couldn’t bear it, “We felt sorry for you, so we let you live in this house.” Terry kept tearing my heart with the words coming out of his mouth. “My love, how did you allow this street cat in? You should have left her starving on the street. Did you hear me, street cat? Don’t you ever dare to touch my husband again! Is that clear enough for you? HE IS MINE! My husband. Get out of here, you, waste.”

Everyone kept insulting me, throwing stones and rubbish at me. I desperately fought with all my strength to get to the exit and escape from this hell. But it seemed impossible because no matter how much I stretched my arms to reach it, it was farther out of my reach, I even saw it disappear into nothing. I couldn’t take it any more, I was desperate. I tried to find another way out. But there was none. Then, I felt their presence behind me, and I turned around as fast as I could.

They were all in front of me, surrounding me. Fear seized my gut. I could see how their eyes were deformed. It was something diabolical. They were getting closer, and closer to me, until I felt someone’s hand grab my shoulder.

“AAAAAAAAAAAA! NO! Stay away, don’t hurt me.” I woke up in a panic, with tears on my face. I was choking. It was just a dream, just a dream. “AAAAA. Just a dream.” It was so real. More tears rolled down my cheeks. I cried for hours. I was inconsolable, desolate. Not just that, I couldn’t stop, until fatigue helped me to close my eyes.

Terry

After travelling the whole day, we finally arrived at Charles Gaulle airport. A limousine was waiting to take us to the hotel, where we would be staying for our entire stay. Arriving at the destination, after we checked in, we were assigned our rooms. Of course, I received the room for honeymooners. Susan was thrilled. She had been telling me about all the places where to go shopping and even gave me a list of the best restaurants where we could eat. And also mentioned a nightclub that is the most avant-garde in all of Europe. I wonder what incredible things they will do there to be so avant-garde.

After being tortured incessantly for hours by Susan, she decided to visit her sisters, to agree on which would be the first place to go shopping. I was finally able to have a shower and change my clothes. Then, I felt much better after travelling for hours on a plane and being surrounded by people who do not stop talking.

To begin, I need to eat well. Susan’s idea of going to a good restaurant sounds pretty good to me now. I took out my mobile to send them all a text, to meet us in the hotel lobby. But when I tried to turn it on, I noticed that the battery was dead. What a bother! I plugged the cable to start charging my mobile on the bureau of the bed, then I decided to use the phone from the hotel, to tell Susan about my plan. We were to meet in half an hour. And when I got there, everyone was ready to go.

Travelling through the streets of Paris is an incredible experience. Anyone can see the cultural richness of this town. The greatest conquerors were from here, not to mention the culinary gift, they offer to the world. The art, in short, and the list is innumerable. The restaurant was in the central square. We walked through the beautiful streets, admiring the structure of the buildings, and shops.

Finally, we arrived at the place. Our reservation was ready. We were assigned a table that overlooked a stained-glass window the size of the wall. On the other side, you could see the town square. It was a very luxurious and beautiful place. Immediately the waiter came to take the order. Everything we ordered was delicious, and the wine was without words. I could stay here just for the wine. When we finished, we walked to where the limousine was waiting for us. The return to the hotel was quick and without further complications.

At the time we reached the hotel, it was already dark. We decided not to visit more places for the moment. Once in the room, I made myself comfortable. I decided to turn on the computer to find out what happened while I was offline. I started with my emails. They had already accumulated a lot. In this case, all emails were redirected to Alex. If it was urgent, he could take charge. I did not see anything new, or anything that requires my immediate attention.

Susan said she would be with her sisters for a while since it was still early, and she wanted to spend more time with them. With nothing better to do, I decided to turn on the TV. After a while, my eyes felt heavy. I fell asleep thinking about Sandra.

∞∞∞

The next day, in the morning, I woke up feeling less tired. Susan was asleep next to me. I was so tired that I did not realize when she arrived. Getting out of bed, I went to the bathroom. After finishing my morning routine, I dressed quickly, and I was ready to go. Susan was still asleep, of course, so I left the room and went to the hotel restaurant, where I ordered my breakfast. Today, I have an appointment with the president of the company, Bolt. The CEO, Richard Bolt. Our history is many years old. Even before I took control of my parents’ company.

Both companies, Bolt and Kensington, have collaborated in the past for many years. This stopped at the time when the president of Bolt Company falsified some commercial documents, putting my father responsible for merchandise that had not been declared in customs. Of course, Richard Bolt smuggled them through third-party companies in which he did business.

This was the reason it was effortless to blame my father for a crime he did not commit. My father’s lawyers were unable to counter the evidence fabricated by this criminal, condemning him to prison for 25 years. To date, he is still locked up.

For years, I have tried to get an appointment with him. The intention is to negotiate the release of the incriminating documents. Show that it was not my father’s company that smuggled the merchandise. But the bastard never wanted to grant me the request. He knows who I am, and my intentions to see him.

Our company was not one of the most powerful on the market during my father’s administration, which is why it was easy to take advantage of us.

But now, I am the owner of the richest capital in North America. I have the power to destroy anyone in my way, and only because of my new position, that man agrees to meet me. The good thing is that I didn't come empty-handed. I prepared a series of terrifying scenarios against him. Furthermore, I will tear apart his company in case he does not give me what I came for. The union with the Ramsey was essential to achieve this goal; otherwise, I would not have acquired the necessary power to make myself heard.

A lot of money and influence were required to get info against this rat. Now, I can do anything. What I want is to get my dad out of jail, and now I have the weapons. Nothing is going to stop me. Unfortunately, this involves having to put up with people with whom I don’t want to be.

The other is to be separated from my love. Checking the time, I only have fifteen minutes left to enjoy my coffee and get on my way to my appointment. Once my time was up, I paid the bill and went to the headquarters, that’s where I will meet with Richard Bolt. The only thing I had with me was my computer and a USB memory. I left my mobile on purpose so that I could not be located by the Ramsey in case it takes me longer than planned.

The trip took me thirty minutes. Paris is not a massive city. Arriving at the destination, I got down from the car and headed to the building. I walked through the lobby right to the reception, where I announced my arrival. When the receptionist heard my name, she became nervous. She kindly offered me a seat and something to drink. I declined. Immediately, she took the phone, informing someone that I didn’t know of my presence.

Five minutes later, an executive of the company welcomed me and asked me to go with him. We went up the elevator until we reached the twentieth floor. When the doors opened, they immediately gave us the entrance to an office. I had to admit, it was very luxurious and well-equipped. Paying attention to the figure behind the desk, there he was, the person who caused tragedy to my family, Richard Bolt. The years did not spare him, he looks tired and older than he should be in his sixty-odd years.

Terry

“The famous Terry Kensington. So, long without seeing you,” A vindictive smile formed on my face.

“That’s right, Richard, I don’t ask you how you’ve been doing because I don’t really care. But when I see your face, I don’t think good is the word to describe it, right?” The confident face he showed turned into one of hatred. Ha! It doesn’t matter, it will soon turn into one of defeat.

“What do I owe this pleasure, Terry? I’m sure it’s not to offer me a business opportunity. By the way, how’s your dad? I heard he’s still in prison. How terrible, don’t you think? Too bad that such a promising figure ended up that way. Unfortunately, anyone can be a victim of circumstance. You have to be cautious with whom you mess with. You may end up the same way. But, please take a seat. How rude of me.” He had to go there, damned him.

“Oh, thank you. You are very kind,” I replied sarcastically.

“Answering your question, my father is very well, and will be better shortly, and about the comment, of course, you are right. Anyone can end up that way, including you. But let’s put this aside. There are several things that I want to show you. I can’t wait any longer, you know? When I was on the plane, I couldn’t stop thinking about the face you would make after seeing the surprises I have for you.” When I said this, I was placing my laptop on the table.

“Let’s see what you have because you already intrigued me.” He said that, and the challenge was in his gaze. I calmly turned on the laptop, It took a little time to start and open the files. When everything was ready, I decided on the first one to show him, it was ready.

But before that, I told him, “I want the evidence you fabricated against my father. I want those involved, and of course, you,” I said, looking into his eyes with hatred. With a ghoulish laugh, Richard replied, “You are as naive as your father. I don’t know what you’re talking about. Your father is the criminal, not me. That’s why he’s in jail, and I’m not.”

“Let’s see if after you see this, your memory improves something.”

When I finished speaking, I turned the laptop over, showing him the content. His reaction was something out of this world. Wow! People can do everything to hide their perversions, and when someone discovers them, they can’t handle it. Their poor brains cannot process what they are seeing at that moment. Richard’s face contorted in a way that looked like he was suffering from facial paralysis, then he hit the desk hard with his fist, making things vibrate on top.

“How dare you? Damn, how did you get these photos? You had them altered to frame me, didn't you? But it won’t work. I’m prepared for everything.” Funny when criminals do not accept what they did despite the evidence.

But to burst his bubble, I told him, “I don’t just have these photos. I have the minor in my custody. He will be the star witness in the case we will be initiated against you unless you give me what I want. My agents are waiting for my signal to proceed with the complaint. As you can see, I have everything,” I threatened confidently.

“Do you think I don’t have political and legal influence? Apparently, you are just as innocent as your father. This is nothing. My lawyers will finish with your witness in minutes, and if that does not happen, the next thing is to ask for some favours. As I told you, I have everything under control.”

“Well, well, I believe you, the good thing is that you think I am an innocent boy, who wants to fight against the big bad wolf. That’s good. But now, look at this,” I opened another file. This is a video, I pressed the start button, and again, his reaction was indescribable. He was silent, with his eyes fixed on the images.

There was his heir, injecting himself with heroin. You could clearly see how they were preparing the syringe. The camera captured the exact moment when the needle penetrated his skin. The effects of the drugs were immediate.

In the background you could see all kinds of depravity, it was grotesque. Richard stayed with his eyes glued to the screen for a while longer. I imagine he was analyzing the cons and the damage that this could bring to his company. Even though he is his son, I doubt that he would sacrifice himself for him. Richard is not that kind of father.

“Tell me, what do you think about this, it’s entertaining, right? Give me what I want, Richard. This is going to get worse if you don’t.” “Oh! Very considerate of you. But I can handle it. What else do you have, boy? If you’ve finished, I need you to leave. I have a company to run.” Oops! This man is tough. “As I told you, Richard, this just keeps getting better. Why don’t you take a look at this, and tell me if you can handle it too?”

I want to see what’s going to happen next, I thought. I opened another file. This one contained many amounts. They were the company’s tax declaration, and the other document showed the income and sales the company generated per year. This one cost me a lot of effort and money to get it. It includes bank accounts where the money goes, and what they do with it. This investigation led to links between high officials of the government, and local police, as well as known criminals.

He saw both documents. I let him assimilate it. This is what I’ve been waiting for since my father was falsely accused ten years ago. Richard just sat there, contemplating the information. He didn’t move. I could see from his posture that this would be devastating for him. If I let the authorities and his contacts know about this, he will be dead. I knew it, and now he knows it.

“Richard, you cannot escape from this. You are trapped in your network of corruption, and depravity. Any of this information, if it becomes public, will harm you. Now, if everything comes to light, all you have been working for will disappear. Your company’s shares will fall dramatically. Your customers will withdraw their orders. Your suppliers will not want to sell you any more, and everyone involved will be jailed. Not to mention that your family will be on the streets. Your name will be trampled on, and your head will have a price. That is the kindest scenario I can predict for you.”

Two hours later, I left my new corporation. I couldn’t stop laughing all the way out. The victory was so intense, that I wanted to live it over and over. I felt so good because finally, I could get my father out of jail, and do justice. The damn man didn’t expect it. I did not give him an easy way out. But this was the best he could get considering his situation. The information I have in my hands now, is the most valuable thing at the moment, for me and my family. I have to secure it and notify my lawyers. I need to save this and start working on it now. Taking my mobile out of my pocket, I dial his number, and when the call connected, “Good afternoon. This is Kenwood Legal Consulting. How can I help you?” The receptionist replied.

“Luisa, I need to speak to Attorney Kenwood, immediately.” There was a pause for a moment.

“Oh! Sorry, Mr. Kensington, Attorney Kenwood is not here now. But let me link your call. It will just take a few seconds.”

“OK,” I replied, and exactly a few seconds later I heard Attorney Kenwood’s voice. Immediately, I said, “I already have the evidence. I just sent it to your email account. I need you to proceed immediately because I want my father out of jail as soon as possible.”

“Incredible, Mr. Kensington. The evidence you sent, I will review and process it immediately, and make the appeal. I assure you, with this, your father will be free in less than a week.” After finishing the call with the lawyer, I arrived at the hotel. Once in my hotel room, I decided to dial Alex’s mobile.

After a few rings, he finally answered, “Terry, what is this call for? How are you doing on your honeymoon?” Alex sarcastically asks me. “The truth is that it is the best trip of my life. I just hung up with Attorney Kenwood. He already has everything to get our father out of jail,” I spoke so fast, that I almost choked. “WHAT ARE YOU SAYING? Are you certain? I can’t believe it! Finally, Terry, finally.”

I managed to hear how Alex’s voice broke with each word until he began to cry. My throat closed with so many emotions. My father will finally be released. I began to cry, too.

After we both calmed down, I said, “Assist the attorney in whatever he needs. Don’t hesitate in anything, not a penny. Whatever he requires you to do it. Give this incredible news to Frank, and Marta. I would like to be there to share this happiness with you guys. But it is impossible for me. I still have to address some pending issues here, which I will tell you in detail when we meet.” Hanging up the phone, I lay down on the bed and closed my eyes.

Sandra

It has been a week since I moved here. It’s wonderful, and I am adjusting to this incredible way of life. Happiness drips through my pores with what I am doing. I am going to offer Mr. White to buy the property. He is an old man, and he will find this idea good. I have some savings for that, and to support myself for the rest of my life. Considering that, I wouldn’t spend much. It sounds great.

I would like to do some remodeling, but only if Mr. White accepts my proposal. After overcoming the emotional crisis I suffered the first day I arrived here, my mind refuses to remember. It is like I erased all the memories from the last 4 years. I don’t remember him any more, or his family.

So, I set myself the task of cleaning and fixing the whole house. After putting everything in the pantry, I made an inventory of all the electrical appliances I had. A small refrigerator, a toaster, an electric kettle, an electric stove, an electric grill, and even a microwave. There is an iron too, but I have never ironed anything in my life, so I will put it back in its place. There is a small radio, not very useful since here there is no reception. Oh! Yes, there is a washing machine. I was in the clouds when I saw it. What would be of me if I had to wash manually?

Continuing with the count, there was a blender, a waffle maker, an electric heater, and that’s it. I made a list of the things that I need in the following weeks because I planned to visit the town every month just for supplies. This will be my life from now on.

The car I bought is not excellent for this type of terrain, so I will have to get a 4×4, those are perfect for everything. Besides, they have a lot of space to take all my groceries.

My life now consists of getting up, having breakfast after fixing myself a bit, if I’m in the mood, and going out to explore. Basically, I am exploring my surroundings, and thanks to my GPS, I have no problems returning if I walk far away from the house. The only means of contact with the outside world is my mobile. Fortunately, I have a good internet signal, in case I need something.

In addition, I have been thinking of buying a monitor, to connect my mobile to watch movies online. I will have to sign up for one of those services, such as Amazon Prime or Netflix. But having access to the internet, and being able to watch it on a good screen will be enough, and it will be worth it. The food is not perfect, but I have no choice. It is the easiest at the moment. With time and when I adapt more, I will start looking for new ways of living more comfortably. I am afraid if I carry on eating processed food, certainly, I will end up getting cancer, or some mental disease.

Everything around me is going great, but I have been very depressed those days. I know it, only from the symptoms I have. Practically, my last shower was four days ago. Not only that, but I have the same clothes on, and I would rather not do a thing. The only activity I am doing is walking in the forest, observing and seeing nature.

My only conclusion about my mood is that all this is a survival mechanism for humans in the face of tragedies. I am confident that after my brain adapts to the sudden changes that I have undergone, I will be fine. Furthermore, I have heard that when you lose someone you love, and you are in mourning, the brain needs a few days to process the loss. I also think that is true. What I see is that only with time, I will be able to overcome this.

∞∞∞

Two weeks have passed since I got here. The little house is better than ever. I have cleaned and re-decorated almost everything. There are things I need to buy in town, but until that day, I have to put that aside. The food is still the same, and I have to buy a coffee machine. Certainly, that will make my life happier. By boiling water and adding the coffee as if it were tea, I have been making coffee like in Western cowboy movies. It is so annoying, but that is better than nothing.

Then something came to my mind, and I was thinking of doing something that I have not dared to do until now. I’m so curious about using the rifle. Not only that, but I would like to hunt a small animal, eventually. Canned meat is the worst, and if I am going to live here, I need to find my way in everything. Having good meat in my diet is essential.

On my next trip to town, I will visit those weapons stores. I want to know the best ammunition to hunt small things. If I am lucky, something medium. I will also buy targets to practice my shooting skills. I need to learn how to shoot. I don’t even know how to do it, but those are the challenges of my new life.

∞∞∞

Finally! Today is the day to go to town. It will take me two hours to get to the nearest one. That’s why I have to make a perfectly well-made shopping list with everything needed for a month, and the new additions; otherwise, it would be terrible if I missed something. For example, female pads ha, ha, ha! That would be “the tragedy”.

After closing the house, I set off. The outward journey was very relaxing. It had been a few weeks since the last time I drove. I already missed this, so I enjoyed the trip very much. Arriving at the entrance of the town, I noticed how rural it was. Wow! This is so retro, ha, ha, ha! Who could tell I would end up living in a rural area? When I was little, I saw a cartoon about a family that lived on a farm. Everyone there was so happy, and everywhere was happiness. I remember how I cried to my parents that I wanted to live in the countryside.

But look at me, know where I ended up. And it's undoubtedly where I wanted. My GPS located some stores to look at to fulfill my massive shopping list. I went to the first one, the appliance store. I am completely sure that a screen could do the miracle. So, I went to the counter and explained to the person behind the desk what I needed. “Ah, I see. You are looking for a monitor to connect to your mobile because you don’t have internet or cable TV, right?” “Yes, that’s correct,” I answered briefly.

“Well, I have news for you. You don’t have to connect your mobile any more, that’s not your only option. If you buy a smart TV with a USB port, you can buy a TV stick with the internet. You can also surf the web when you download the right app. Every month, you will have to put credit on your TV stick to have internet access.” “Well, that solves everything. I’ll take it.”

I was so lucky for that salesperson to inform me so well. After an hour in the electronics store, I came out with my 47-inch smart TV. I think it will be the only big thing in the house. As well, I got cables of all kinds for the connection, and some more just in case. The TV stick, a computer keyboard, a mouse, a well-needed coffee machine, and even a video game controller. This is great. It also gave me an installation manual and the IP address of a video on YouTube, in case I needed “more information”.

I went back to my car to drop off my purchases and head to the market. Taking my gigantic list out of my bag, I started the process. An hour later, I finished my purchases. This is a very hard task. The good thing is that it’s only one day per month, or maybe twice.

The next thing I did was, build up my courage since my next stop was the weapon store. Upon arrival, there were some customers as expected in these places. They all want weapons. I started to see all the kinds of things they sold. There are some or rather most of the things I had no idea what they could be.

After ten minutes, the manager came over and asked me, “Can I help you with something?”

I turned toward the voice, and I saw the most wonderful smile I had seen in a long time. Of course, you can, cuteness, I thought. “Hello, of course, I am new around here and a friend recommended that I go through this store before returning home. I am considering hunting small animals. The only weapon I have is a single-shot rifle,” I smiled at the manager so sweetly that I didn’t even believe it.

He directed me to the cabinet where he kept all the ammunition. After showing me what I needed, and explaining the caliber and its use, I asked him to give me some shooting practice targets and special earmuffs.

The manager, seeing my interest in practicing, told me the following, “Every Saturday and Wednesday, from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, we have shooting classes. All you have to do is register or send me your info by text on the day and time you want to come. I will answer you if we have availability, and what time we are free if not.”

It is definitely my lucky day, “Really? Oh! Thank you. I don’t know how to thank you enough. I was thinking it might be a bit complicated for me to practice alone. Not only that, but I can only come once or twice a month. What do I need to bring to class?”

The manager nodded his head and said, “Good to know you are interested. Have this. It is a pamphlet with all the information you need to know, and the things you have to bring with you. If you don’t have something on this list, you can buy it here.”

I saved the pamphlet in the bag, and then asked, “What is your name?” He looked puzzled for a second, “Oh! I’m sorry. I didn’t introduce myself, my name is Luke.” He extended his hand toward me, and after a second, I smiled at him and shook his. “My name is Sandra.”

Sandra

When I left the weapon store, I thought that was it. I have all I came to buy, and I still had a few extra hours. So, I decided to take a walk around town. I know that my things will be safe in the car. I doubt that in a small town like this, car theft is something to worry about. Leaving my things in the car, and making sure that it is closed, I began my tour.

What a nice countryside place, almost everything is made of wood. It seems here everyone is responsible for making their own houses. I have not seen any construction company or anything like that. If I had to build my own house, I would definitely be living in a tent right now. Good thing I solved that problem already. I have mine now, and it was already there. Ha!

Walking around, I came across a barbershop. I wouldn’t believe it if I didn’t see it with my eyes. It’s like in the Wild West films. I bet from this town, they got those ideas. But it has its charm.

Later, I found a canteen. I didn’t go in because I didn’t feel like it. But one day I would visit it. Yet if this is only for men as I think it is, it would be so sexist.

I carried on walking through those beautiful streets until I came across a cinema. This is great. Then I see the billboard, and it dismays me. They only offer one film and are only open on Wednesdays and weekends. Today is not Wednesday or the weekend, so for the next visit, I will have to fit all my activities into one day. I have not been to a cinema in a long time, much less eaten popcorn.

I went ahead and saw a small, but beautiful restaurant. Like the rest, everything was made of wood. Wooden tables and chairs, wooden floor, and wooden ceiling, the only thing that was not wood was the dessert display. I decided to go in because I was already hungry. I greeted the person behind the cash register, and she asked me to take a seat wherever I wanted. I did, and I noted what a beautiful place this was.

There were vases full of flowers here, and there. The table I chose faced the back garden of the house. It was beautiful, all full of flowers.

The person who owns this restaurant must be a woman. No one else could have such a beautiful garden and so much feeling. A woman who loves her family. I’m generalizing, but who cares? I say it from experience, my mother had one as beautiful as this one. My father and I spent whole afternoons with her, watching how she fixed the garden and took care of it, the same way she took care of us, it was a garden full of love. My father and I loved her so much.

The house where I lived with my family is still there, abandoned because I was a coward when I left. I could not bear to see every day the places where my parents spent the best days of their lives. The place was full of memories, and everything was so painful at that time. I could not bear it, and left. Maybe I will go back to my beautiful house, to take care of it, as my mother did. It is time for me to take my place as a daughter, and make their spirits happy.

A kind old lady approached my table and greeted me with a smile that could reach the most insensitive heart, “What do we have here? A beautiful visitor, what can I do for you, my child?” My eyes began to fill with tears as I saw her kind face. Hearing words of love in these moments was like a balm to my wounds.

“Sorry, I’ve been very emotional lately. It must be a hormonal issue, hahaha! Don’t bother yourself with my nonsense. I’m famished, and I want something very, delicious. What do you recommend?” I smiled at her, not knowing what else to do. “Ah! But of course. I know exactly what you need right now, my girl. Don’t worry, leave it to me. You just have to wait for a few minutes. Are you OK with that, sweetness? I have tons of magazines to entertain you with. Look, all are on that table. You can read as many as you want,” I am left with my mouth open. I want to take her with me. In my life, I have never met a more beautiful, and kind old woman.

A few minutes later, the same old lady approached with a service cart full of dishes. Smiling, she arrived at my table, and with great pride, she began to explain her creations.

“This is my very famous crispy fried chicken. It comes served with cooked corn, and you have two options to choose from, either the mashed potatoes or the mashed carrot. I recommend you select both,” she winks at me when she says this.

Looking at all this, I was left smiling. She kept explaining, “This, here, is my very, very, but very famous triple chocolate shake. You can’t miss it. Ah! But my favourite is this one.”

Putting in front of me the most wonderful thing I have ever seen, she said, “My very, very famous corn loaf with butter. I learned this recipe from my grandmother. As you can see, this is a family secret, and I am the only one who can make this wonder.” As she said this, she contemplated her creation out of deep admiration. “I will take everything,” I said without thinking.

“You do know, girl.” Accepting the dishes with great pleasure, I began to savour the type of food I hadn’t had in years. Each bite sent me to heaven and then to hell. It was so succulent, but at the same time bitter. It reminded me of what I no longer have, a home.

What a delicious meal. I left the restaurant with 3 take-out orders because it was getting late, and I decided I better go and hurry to go home. I got to the car, and put my delicious food orders in the passenger seat, this way, I could eat a little of this delicious chicken if I wanted to, as well as that delicious triple chocolate shake. On every trip to town, I have to go and eat there.

The way back was quite calm and, in fact, it was faster than the outward journey. Finally arriving at my property, I got my things off the car and took them inside. Having everything in, I closed the door and went to accommodate everything. After finishing with the pantry, I went to my room. There is where I plan to install the giant screen, only here, would it fit without getting in the way.

After reading the instructions on how to use the device, I continued with the TV stick. Nothing out of the other world. Half an hour later, I finished dealing with the connection, subscriptions, and all that. I tested if it was working, and I was ready to go online with my new television. I downloaded the apps the store manager recommended to me too.

Everything worked fine. I use my new keyboard to type the Yahoo address. There, you always find entertaining things, from any type of news, to whatever you can think of.

While I was scrolling down the page, I saw a name in one corner of the website that I recognized immediately. My blood turned cold, and I felt the bile rise in my esophagus. Photos of their great wedding appeared in the display section, changing for a different one every certain time.

They not only show their wedding pictures, but their honeymoon too. There he was, walking through the streets of Paris, hand in hand with his beloved wife. What a wonderful image. It looks so romantic. Betrayal. That word was repeated in my head, over and over again. Traitor, traitor, traitor, in a low voice and gnashing my teeth, then I repeated for the last time, “Traitor.”

Terry

The trip to Paris was completely successful. I met several more times with Richard and his team. The company’s transition, from hand to hand, was fast with the political contacts Richard has. All the documents had to be legally authenticated by an authority in a matter of hours. We were a priority for the authorities. In short, the company is mine by law. I will take a second trip with my entire team to accommodate things my way. At the moment, I am satisfied with the results.

Tomorrow morning, our plane will leave. I am anxious to arrive and update everyone on everything we achieved. The request is already underway, and the proofs have been delivered to the corresponding law department as evidence.

The lawyer told me that the authorization to release my father was already signed by the judge and the governor. My dad would be released the next day. So, I have time to be present when he gets out of prison. I am so happy, all this was worth the grief. My father, my family, that is the important thing, the rest will have to settle with time. The Ramsey family are kind to me because I am part of them legally, and because I manage the merged capital of the two companies. I'm not complaining about them, but Susan is something else.

Every day that passes, I get to know her more. Then, noted that she and I couldn’t have a future together. Not that I’m considering the possibility. This is only temporary, and her personality is not to my liking. Despite her physical beauty and her sexual attributes, she could only be a small moment in my life.

I realize some people are not worth keeping. That only makes me think of Sandra. The moment I return, I will hurry my plans to bring her back. This last month, emotionally, and physically away from her, has hit me hard. It made me see what a wonderful woman I had. It is not that I did not know before, I know that she is beautiful, inside, and out, but now I understand her value and the need I have for her. For example, right now, all these wonderful moments, and I can’t share this happiness with her. I wish I could.

Sandra is a person who has to be by my side, until our death. She is the kind of person that anybody needs in their life. And I love her, I love her smile, her tenderness, and how devoted she is to those she loves. My Sandra is nowhere near me.

The night before our return trip, we met at the hotel to plan it. Mr and Mrs Ramsey, along with the twins, would take a different flight that would take them to theirs. Susan and I will head to “ours ”. All our belongings should be ready to leave tomorrow morning. The flight would leave exactly at 9:00 am, so we agreed it would be better to go to rest and make sure everything is ready. Although, it took hours, while Susan finished packing her things. It seems to me that she bought all of Paris.

I only bought one thing, a beautiful white gold chain necklace, with a butterfly pendant. Its wings are covered with sapphires, and its head with diamonds. When I saw it, I imagined Sandra’s beautiful neck with it. I imagined her smiling, thanking me with kisses. Putting the box back in my suitcase, I closed my eyes, imagining her. Unfortunately, I don't know when she will accept it, but I will keep it with me until that time comes.

The next day, I hurried everyone to be on time. The luggage was ready. The hotel service had taken it to the limousine that would be waiting to take us to the airport. The plane left at 9:00 am, so I’ll entertain myself, taking care of solving pending work and emails.

Alex was doing a good job, but I already had to get involved. My holidays are over, so it is time to take back the reins of the business. The Ramsey were in front of me, talking as if there were no problems in the world. Susan and her sisters were comparing jewels they bought in one of the most expensive stores in Paris. I entertained myself with the laptop, for as long as possible.

I messaged the family, telling them we were already flying back. Then, I was focused on my business, when I heard Susan’s voice, “Love, put down that laptop for a moment. I was telling everyone what an incredible trip this was. I had a lot of fun, and I want us to schedule a beach destination for next time. It will be so much better. What do you say if we do it for my birthday? It’s in three months, and I would like a party on the beach.”

Of course, she wanted one on the beach. “We would have to make room for that and accommodate plenty of things. You know that I have countless responsibilities. We’ll see at the time.” I replied that way to get rid of her.

With that said, I addressed Mr Ramsey, “Theodor, in about two months, I am finishing one of the largest acquisitions to date. I cannot give you the details now because it is not ready yet, but I will be contacting you, so we can meet formally with the shareholders. This will be big”

Theodor’s eyes shone when he heard me speak. In this world, everything can be dealt with, and I already have my ticket out of this marriage.

Finally, we got to the airport, where two limousines were waiting for us. Susan and I said goodbye to her parents and sisters. Boarding our vehicle, I told the driver to get going. I want to get there as soon as possible. I need to talk to my family about everything that happened on this trip. Not only that, but I also need to talk to Carson, to know everything he knows about Sandra. Now I can tell her all that keeps me away from her, now that my father is out. It is time for my woman to come back, and realize that her place is with me.

The trip was short, we were not far from the airport. Finally, in the distance, I saw the Kensington mansion. Happiness exploded in my chest when I saw my house. I have lived all the happiness of my life on these walls. Since my childhood, my adolescence, my life with Sandra, and now that my father will be released from prison. Alex told me in one of our calls, something about a welcoming party for him. He did not give me many details by phone, but I will find out soon.

As we crossed the main gate, we immediately went to the entrance door. Outside, at the door, they were all there, welcoming us. That’s my family, and that’s why I will do everything in my power to keep them happy. But the only person that I really want to see the most, is not here.

The limousine stopped in front of the entrance, and the driver got out to open the door for us. The first to get out of the car was Susan, like the proper diva she is, and I followed. Everyone came to greet us and ask us about the trip. I had not noticed before that lawyer Kenwood was also present.

After giving an affectionate greeting to Marta, Alex and Frank, who he was somehow distant from, I went to the lawyer. Shaking hands, he said, “Mr Kensington, welcome. I assume that everything went well on your trip?” To which I replied with a smile from ear to ear, “The best trip so far.”

“When you are free, give me a few minutes of your time, to update you on the final details of your father’s legal case.” Yes, I have to know it all. “Of course, Attorney Kenwood, I will be with you after greeting everybody, and making myself comfortable.”

I immediately went up to my room, to have a shower. Speeding up, I dressed in more comfortable clothes and went out to meet with the Attorney. “Attorney Kenwood, I am ready, whenever you like.” I let him know.

“Of course, I am ready for you, Mr Kensington. This is vital because I need your consent,” I nodded, letting him know my answer.

“The evidence, absolving your father, was accepted, as you already knew, but in this case, Mr Richard is directly involved. He is accused of giving false testimony, falsifying official documents, money laundering, and smuggling of merchandise.”

“It is not necessary any more. Richard and I, reached an agreement. We do not need to do anything else against him. All the possible damage, we have already done.” With that said, Attorney Kenwood left. Shortly after, I went to my office. I sent Alex a text message to meet me there. Five minutes later, he knocked on the door. “Alex, come in,” he came in with a smile. I could see that he was pleased to see me. “Sit down,” I said, “First, tell me what time tomorrow we are going to pick up Dad from prison. And I remember you mentioned something about a welcoming party.”

“Yes, you are correct, brother. Tomorrow, Dad leaves the prison at 3:00 pm. We are all going to pick him up. Nobody wanted to stay and wait at home. We will take two vans. And about the party, Marta, and the girls are handling everything, and before we leave, we will have everything ready. Balloons, streamers, gifts, welcome decoration, and the kitchen has been very busy all afternoon preparing a feast.” ,p> Alex finished his report and said goodbye. It was already late, and I could only think there was very little left, to meet my father. Finishing my thoughts, I dialled the phone of the person with whom I have wanted to talk to for a while.

Terry

“Mr Kensington, how can I help you?” Carson answered.

“Good evening, Carson. Excuse me, for calling you so late. I’m back, and I would like to know how everything is with the surveillance I ordered?” As I said this, I detected anxiety in my voice.

“Mr Kensington, have you not checked the mail I sent you? I completed my initial report and sent it to you on the third day after you left for Paris.” I was surprised. Not only that, but I have not seen any of his emails. I had so many at that time, that I didn’t pay enough attention to him.

After a few seconds of debating what I want to do next, I replied, “Well, Carson, I’m truly sorry, I haven’t seen your email. You know that I was away, and I didn’t have much time to review each one of them. I am going to look for it, and tomorrow, I will contact you for the following. Thank you very much and good night.” With that, I hung up the call.

Turning on my laptop, I opened the inbox. I wrote Carson’s name in the search bar, and indeed, there was an unopened email. I clicked on it, and the information appeared in front of me. At first, I didn’t know what I was reading. Nothing made sense. But after paying more attention, I started again.

“Good morning, Mr Kensington. This is the information you requested.

Day 24. After receiving your call, I went to the address you provided. Upon arriving at the place, I noticed everything was quiet. It was already late, and surely Miss Sandra was now resting. I was walking around the property, searching for some activity, but I did not notice any.

The bodyguards that I hired for her protection arrived half an hour after me. They were monitoring the property from their vehicle since we had no instructions to interfere with any aspect of her life.

On my part, I went with the neighbours to know about any activity on Miss Sandra’s property. All the neighbours agree that they have not heard anything from her, since she left the house, after the death of her parents. This may be normal, Since she left for Kensington Mansion years ago, they would not necessarily have seen her arrive. The day ended without any eventualities.

Day 25. The morning was calm with no clear activity. Miss Sandra showed no signs of activity. I did not know the conditions in which she had left the Kensington mansion. At a certain point, she would have to go out to buy food or any necessities. The day progressed in the same way.

Day 26. In the morning, I still did not detect activity inside the property. I proceeded to investigate closely, and without being detected by the neighbours, I entered the house from the back, right through the garden. The doors were locked, and the windows were patched. The interior view was blocked too. I decided to open the lock with a master key and managed to get in. I ventured inside, everything was abandoned, there were no traces of someone living there recently. Then, I took the stairs to the second level and in the same way, I did not find traces of anyone living at that time.

Not only that, but I made a thorough inspection of the place, searching for something. I found none. The property was still abandoned, and Miss Sandra never arrived here, after leaving the Kensington mansion. I left a bodyguard monitoring the property in case Miss Sandra shows up. So far, the report has been negative. Please contact me to readjust the strategy.

Sincerely, Carson.

“Where are you, Sandra?” I wondered out loud with fear. I went to where my mobile was and called her number. “The number you have dialled is counted outside the service area, dial again.”

I concentrated all my thoughts, thinking for a moment about some other place that she had gone, but I returned blank. She never told me that she had another property or some other place where she could go. Not only that, but I dialled her number again, with the same result. After several calls unsuccessfully, I decided to leave a message, “Sandra, my love, where are you? I’m looking for you like crazy, please call me.”

Shortly after, I heard Susan and Marta arguing outside my door. I was quite upset, and with this, I was furious. Abruptly, I opened the door and found them both in full discussion.

When they heard the door open, they turned their heads in my direction. When Susan saw me, she threw herself into my arms. “Terry, Marta is telling me that my room will be the same as it was before we got married. Explain this, love, because I’m not going to sleep in another room, but my husband’s.” She said, emphasizing the word husband. More problems that I do not have the patience to deal with.

“Marta, please, let me talk to her” She nodded and left.

“Susan, I have decided that it is the best thing to do if everyone has their room. You have many things, and I don’t have more space to accommodate them. Apart from that, I don’t want to change the style of the decoration or increase anything else. And obviously, with your arrival, that will happen. Despite the fact we have our rooms, we are still married. Everyone in this house knows it. This is just for convenience. Besides, you don’t want me to come in and go out of the room, interrupting whatever you’re doing, sounds logical, won't it?”

Surprised by what I said, she replies, “You’re absolutely right. I hadn’t seen it that way, so you won’t wake me up every day for no reason. Ah! My husband is brilliant. My dad was right when he chose you.” With that said, she kissed me in the mouth and went to her room.

“He chose me? Ha!”

Terry

The preparations are ready, and everything looks excellent. It indicates that everyone put significant effort into the decorations. My father will feel how much we miss him. Sadness hit me at that moment, and I decided to walk around the house a bit. I started walking the corridors, and at the same time, I remembered how happy we were on these four walls.

When my parents were still with us, all the memories of a wonderful childhood with my family flooded me. These same corridors were full of laughter when my brothers and I were running around. Playing hide-and-seek, making jokes to the staff. My mother is chasing after us to punish us. This moment felt so nostalgic, but now that my father is back with us, I felt relief, but at the same time guilt.

Today will be the first day that my father enters this house, without my mother being here. She died three years after my father entered jail. She fell ill. No one knows the exact causes, but her heart gave up beating. Some say that sadness killed her, and that was true because my parents were so happy together.

They loved each other, and it was an enviable relationship. I always admired them. The unity they showed, even with us, made us see that my parents were a force. I do not know how my father will react to this. Furthermore, I hope the years that have passed, and the distance, have diminished his pain. But, returning to reality, I walked back to where everyone was.

“Terry, we were waiting for you. We cannot be late,” Marta told me with excitement in her voice. “Yes, Marta, I’m ready, let’s go.”

We all got into the vehicles, Marta, Alex, Frank, Susan, and me in one, and the rest of the staff, in the other. The trip was quite silent, we were stressed and anxious to see him. Frank is the first to talk since we left, “Hey, Marta, what did you do with Mom’s things? I’m sure Father will want to take a look.”

“Oh, don’t worry about that, Frank, don’t worry about that. I didn’t dare to touch anything. Since your mother’s death, everything is still intact, in your parents’ room. Whatever your father decides, we will do it. Despite the years that have passed since her death, he will have to face reality for the first time. Now, he will see you all, and the memories locked in the house. That will be the moment when he will be in mourning.”

Finally, we arrived at the compound. We parked outside the gate, where my father would come out. It was 2:45, 15 minutes before his release. Attorney Kenwood would be with him right now, helping him. We all got out of the vehicles and stood in front of the gate. Susan got out with discomfort, turning to see everywhere with disgust.

“Terry, be patient, a bit more, a bit more,” I said to myself.

When the time marked 3:00, the gate opened, and there he was, my father. He looked tired, and thinner from the last time I saw him. But undoubtedly, he was there, in front of all of us.

He saw us waiting for him, and he smiled. It is the most grateful and tender smile I saw in him. Little by little he got closer. At the same time, Frank was heading towards him at a fast pace. When they met halfway, they hugged each other as if their lives depended on it, like a lost relationship that is rediscovered again.

The hug did not last long, since Alex was there, right away, demanding his turn. Then, Marta, and I followed. He had tears all over his face. The joy of seeing his family was overwhelming him.

He saw me directly in my eyes, and said, “I don’t know how you did it, but thank you. Now I can go and visit your mother.” Tears started to fall down my cheeks, and my father was finally free to go home, with his family. My mother should be here with us too. I looked at the sky and whispered, “Mum, I fulfilled my promise to you, I brought him back.” Thereafter, I cleaned my eyes and turned to see everybody.

Everyone in the house was very attached to my father. He was a fair and kind man. He did not abuse his position and treated everyone with respect. The staff began to greet him, one by one, expressing their admiration, and welcoming him. They were happy because he realized. In one of those moments, he saw Susan.

“And you, beauty, you must be Sandra? Terry has told me wonders about you. Every time we spoke, our conversation was all you.” He extended his hand to greet her, but Susan hesitates to return the greeting, then, she’s answering him with an annoyed voice, “Oh, no sir. You are mistaken. I am Susan, the wife of your son Terry. Sandra, whom you refer to, is his employee. She’s been helping my husband organize his work, and taking care of duties at home.”

My father turned to see me with the largest eyes I could have seen in my life. Of course, he does not know I am married. “Dad, I’ll update you on everything. For the moment, all I want is to get you out of here.”

“Okay, son, come on. I want to have a bath, in a big tub. I’m dying for one of those with bubbles and everything.” We all started laughing, and Marta assured him when we arrived that he could have the best bubble bath in history. The way home was an emotional one. I couldn’t help, but observe my dad almost with his head out of the window. I could say I lived the incarceration with him, not in my flesh, but I saw the suffering that confinement causes.

We were getting closer to home, and with a lump in my throat, I saw how Father began to cry. His pain was visible and unstoppable. The tears on his face reflected everything he lost. It was painful to see him like that.

Once inside the house, the decorations were on display. My dad, still crying, moved by this gift, thanked everyone for their effort. Marta took him to his room because everything was already prepared, including a bubble bath. But first, I asked him to hurry, as we were all starving and wanted the party to start.

After the fastest bubble bath in history, my dad joined us in the living room. We were all waiting for him. The toast was the first thing we did. We opened some bottles of champagne, and we toasted as if there was no tomorrow. The food was ready, and we went to the dining room, where all the dishes were arranged on a large table. Next to them were the cutlery, and plates. We served ourselves as we wanted, as much as we wanted, and as much as we could. Everything was delicious.

At the end of the party, everybody returned to their activities. Susan said goodbye, with the excuse to check her social networks and catch up with them. Marta returned to the kitchen to help with things that were left to collect. Alex, Frank, my dad, and I headed to the studio. We had to talk a lot, and this conversation could not be postponed any longer.

Our study is a place we use to have meetings, to study, or to read. It has armchairs, and sofas, with a coffee table in the centre, and a desk with a computer. The rest of the room was full of bookshelves. For anyone who wanted to read for a while, this would be the perfect place.

My dad was the first to speak, “How did you do it, my children? For many years, we tried to find the evidence and prove my innocence, with no results. And a week ago, Attorney Kenwood hit me in the face with the news. I was almost knocked out.”

The three of them turned to see me, but Alex answered him first. “It was Terry, Father. He did something idiotic, but thanks to him, you are free. We could not do anything for a while until he came up with that idea. And well, here you are. Now, I will let him explain it all to you.” Mm!

“Well, Dad, this is a bit long, but I want you to understand one thing. As a family, we are the most important. I have no doubt that either Alex, Frank, or you would do everything in your power to get me out of trouble, and my turn was this time,”

Terry

I looked him straight in the eyes, and continued, “I don’t regret anything. The decisions I make are mine. I would have given up my legs to get you out of there, do you understand, Dad? I married Susan two weeks ago. She is Theodor Ramsey’s daughter. We made an economic agreement by raising the capital together. We are the owners, but I am the only one who can make decisions and approve projects. From what you see, Dad, I have the power in my hands. All this helped me to get evidence that nobody wanted to give me against Richard. This opened the doors for you to be here, with us. Before nobody took us seriously, now they bow their heads in front of us.”

I told Father and brothers what happened in Paris. I told them about Richard’s company, and the change of powers was already done. But it was still necessary to announce to everyone who is the owner now.

“Son, what happened to Sandra? You looked so happy when you talked about her. I can’t believe one day you love her, and the next you forget her. Tell me what really happened because I think I will have that on my conscience.”

There is no other way, but to explain my situation to him, so I started by telling him how things were between us.

“This marriage is temporary. I already have a way out, without risk. Theodor Ramsey will not hesitate for a moment to accept what I have prepared for them. This is a strategy. As soon as I can put everything in motion, I will divorce Susan and cut with them. There is no love between us, and I do not see any problem with this. And for Sandra, I will work very hard to earn her forgiveness. I know she loves me, but she can’t see it right now. In the end, she will take me back. I am sure of it”

“I hope so too, son. I wish happiness for you all, more than mine. If Sandra is the person with whom you want to spend the rest of your life, do not hesitate to do everything possible and impossible for her, to return to you. I say this from experience, son. The love of a woman is the purest, and most magnificent possession a man could have. I wish you all to find a love like mine. A love that you can treasure, and despite the distance, and death, it will remain with you forever.”

After the meeting was over, everyone retired to their room. I was tired, but thinking about my father’s words, they were ringing constantly.“I wish you to find a love like mine. A love you can treasure and despite distance and death, it will remain with you forever.”

I’m sure I’ve already found that woman. What I’m afraid of, is having lost her too. Good thing I’m not the type of person who will take no for an answer. I don’t know how, but I won’t stop until she returns to me.

When I got to my room, I found Susan in my bed. “Hello handsome, I was waiting for you, I got bored, and I decided to wait for you here. Mm! Did you miss me? Because I want you so much.”

She got up from the bed, and walked towards me, moving her hips, and unbuttoning her shirt while doing it. I stood there without moving. Once I was within her reach, she began to caress my chest with both hands on top of my shirt. I swallowed hard. She starts with the first button, and she carries it like this until it opens completely. Then, she began to kiss my neck, until she reached my nipples. The desire was winning because my cock was erect and ready.

When she felt it through the clothes, she put her hand inside the trousers and held it firm. She gave it a few small tugs, then she circulated the head with the tips of her fingers. I grabbed her neck from the back, and with one hand brought her closer to my face. She kept moving her hand, along my cock, rubbing it, until she reached underneath my balls. Then, she held my testicles with a soft caress, pulling my locks from there. That did it.

I held her head in a stronghold until my lips touched hers. Ripping off what’s been left of her blouse, and throwing it to the floor without care, I took her to the bed, with my mouth on hers. I threw her there, nothing gentle. I could see her breasts bouncing when she banged into the mattress. Immediately, I went to one breast. I bit her nipple with the tips of my teeth, listening to her moan of pleasure. I decided to bite harder on the other one. The cry of pain-pleasure was intense. I wanted to hear her scream. If she thought seducing me was a good idea, tomorrow she will know the consequences.

Still, fully dressed, with one hand I lowered my zip. With the other, I held her hip, positioning my cock at her entrance, and I pushed hard.

I didn’t care if I hurt her, the scream she gave was satisfactory. I went in, deeper, until I felt my testicles hitting her butt. Not only that, but I thrust in and out, time after time, as she screamed my name each time I hit her pubic bone. Susan did not last long after I felt her muscles tense. Her orgasm was so intense, that it looked like it lasted forever. Thereafter, in a few more seconds, it was my turn to come too.

When we finished, I got out of her and lay on my back, catching my breath. After a few seconds, I got up and headed to the bathroom, to wash off the guilt. It was one of the worst feelings in my life. I was betraying my woman with another. “I’m sorry, Sandra, I’m so sorry, sorry, baby, so sorry.” Whispering her name, I apologize over, and over.

∞∞∞

The next day, we took my dad to his favourite restaurant for breakfast. Susan couldn’t come, she was still asleep, as is her habit. It was so surreal to have my dad back. The next step for him was to create a routine for him to make his transition easier. After finishing breakfast, we went to the mall to buy everything he could need. The clothes he had in the house no longer fit him very well. He had lost a lot of weight and required a new wardrobe. After doing all this, we went home because I had to solve some pending issues since work does not wait.

I called Alex to my office, to hear the update on how things were. With satisfaction, I could see my brother growing into a responsible man, and I could count on him in the future. Once Alex left, I dialled Carson’s phone. On the first ring, he answered, “Good morning, Mr. Kensington, how can I help you?” Carson’s voice sounded very cheerful.

“Hello Carson, good morning. I read your report, and I want you to find Sandra as soon as possible. The address I gave you is the only one she mentioned. Apart from this, I don’t know of any other place where she may be. I don’t know about any friends, family, or acquaintances either. The only thing I know is about her parents’ death. You will have to trace the last movements she made when she left the Kensington mansion.”

“With pleasure, Mr. Kensington. But I need you to provide me some information. Did Miss Sandra leave the mansion alone, or someone was with her? I also need to know the number of the bank account and credit cards of Miss Sandra. With that, I will do the digging if there have been any.”

“Yes, Carson, she left the property in a taxi.”

“Do you have the license plate numbers?” Carson asked me.

“Yes, I have it in the surveillance recording data. I will send it to you by text in a few more minutes, along with the details that you are asking for. Carson, do everything to find her. If you fail me in this, I will not need your services any more in the future.”

“Don’t worry, Mr. Kensington, leave it to me. Not for anything, I live from my work. I will have the details as soon as possible. Your case is a priority for me. Have a lovely day, Sir.” With that said, we ended the call. I leaned on the backrest of the seat, closing my eyes. The only thing I could see was Sandra’s sad face.

Sandra

My house is looking great, I am so adjusted here, that it feels like I’m living in a fantasy land, and this house is made up of sweets, and chocolates. I can see myself getting old here. If one day I have a daughter or son, it will be the perfect place to raise them.

This reminded me to call Mr. White. I grabbed my mobile from the bedside table and dialled his number. “Hello,” He answered me as kindly as always. “Mr. White, it’s Sandra, good morning.”

“Sandra, angel, what do I owe this honour? I hope not to report a malfunction.”

“Ha, ha, ha! No Mr. White, none of that. I want to make a deal with you. I would like to see you in person, as soon as possible. You know it takes me two hours to get to the nearest town. But this is important for me, so you tell me.”

“Ah! Sandra, I’m never going to say no to an angel like you, besides, do you know how bored I am? At my age, not even the wind blows my way any more. What I want to tell you, is that I am available when you need me, my agenda is completely blank, and I would very much like to hear that proposal you are talking about.”

“Say no more, Mr. White. Can I see you tomorrow, at Mrs. Carmen’s restaurant, at two? I think the time is perfect to order that wonderful fried chicken, what do you think?”

“Sounds perfect, see you tomorrow, angel.” After hanging up the mobile, I spun, jumped, and had everything to do with bending my knees. What a thrill, I am so close to buying this little house. This wonderful place is helping me to live again, and I am almost certain that Mr. White will sell the property to me. Then, I am going to start making my plans to remodel, and tomorrow, I will take the opportunity to find people who can take charge of making these possible.

Planning my day for tomorrow, I remembered one thing, and tomorrow couldn’t be a better day to start. I grabbed my mobile from the table, opened the text messages, and wrote a message. I hope Luke will answer me soon.

After a while of bussing myself doing my housework, I heard the ringing of a notification. I immediately went to my mobile to see who it was.

“Yes!” I yelled out loud, “It’s Luke.” I opened the text message, and read the following: Hello, Sandra, I was wondering when you were going to contact me. Tomorrow, we have availability from four to six. Text me back with your confirmation, to reserve your place. Immediately I replied, Thanks, Luke, I’ll be there on time, I already have my equipment ready, I’ll see you tomorrow.

I left my mobile on the table and went to the kitchen to make coffee. This coffee maker is incredible. I like to make my drink from coffee beans and put some pieces of cinnamon sticks. The flavour is so aromatic, and it transports me to better places. I finished it and left the mug on the table. I grabbed a notebook and a pencil, and I left the house to inspect. Not only that, but I checked the surroundings. I have to decide what I want to remodel. I need to make a list so that tomorrow in town they can give me a quote.

The facade of the house is ancient, made of stones, wood, and more wood. From what I see, we have to replace some planks and give maintenance to all of them. I am going to install a fence and extend the house a bit. Although I love this original design, it’s not the best if I live in a petite place, also if I think one day I will need more room.

∞∞∞

The day went rapidly. The good thing is that I finished the list of what I need to do tomorrow. I had everything ready. I had a bath after and went to bed. I was exhausted for a reason that I did not know, maybe the excitement of tomorrow. I turned on the television, and in the middle of the program, I fell asleep.

∞∞∞

The beautiful rays of the sun that filtered through my curtain woke me up. With all the laziness in the world, I raised my arm, to see the time on my mobile. Oh! No, no, it’s already very late, it’s 11:30 a.m. And I will hardly have time to have breakfast and leave. Getting up quickly, I did my morning routine and went downstairs as quickly as possible to prepare something to eat. My cup of coffee can’t fail, and I’ll make another one for the road.

Being ready, I put the shooting equipment in the car and my handbag. After checking that I was not missing anything, I closed the house and started going.

The trip was fun as always. I take every opportunity to enjoy this incredible landscape. The forest is wonderful to heal the soul and rejoice in the heart. The drive went fast, and I only had half an hour to get there, so I did not worry because I had 20 minutes to spare.

The Welcome to Cariboo Town sign was in front of me. I parked my car near Mrs. Carmen’s place, and upon entering the restaurant, I said hello to the employees. I didn’t see Mrs. Carmen anywhere, so I asked about her whereabouts.

They told me she would be arriving later, as she was doing the restaurant’s shopping. I sat at the same table, facing the garden, I will not get tired of seeing this beauty. This only encourages me, even more, to go home, and restore everything that my neglect has damaged, especially the beautiful garden my mother kept for us.

When I turned my head at the entrance of the restaurant, I saw Mr. White coming in. I raised my hand and waved at him to come. Mr. White, seeing me, walked to the table where I was waiting.

“Mr. White, nice to see you again,” I extended my hand to greet him. Mr. White takes it, returning the greeting.

“Young woman, I would not miss this appointment with you for anything. Nice to see you too, we haven’t seen each other for a month. Tell me how you feel about the house. I want to know that you are well and that being isolated has not made you feel ill.”

“I am feeling wonderful. In fact, I have never felt better in my life. The house is small, but I would not ask for another, and the place is spectacular. Everything is so beautiful and majestic, that I would never think of returning to the city. That is why I want to talk to you. As I told you on the phone, I would like to make you an offer. I wish to buy your house.”

“Oh, well, this is surprising. It is not that I like to get involved in your affairs angel, but tell me, you will not regret it later? It is a very remote place. The house is small, and the area has nothing to offer to a beautiful woman like you. To live alone is something risky.” Mr. White was always so concerned about my safety.

“I have thought enough, and have weighed all the pros, and cons, and looked at it coldly. To Be honest, I am more at risk of being mugged in a city than in the forest, and well, people disappoint all the time. I am not saying being alone in a mountain is ideal for a woman like me, but currently, it is the only thing I want. I also promise you to take perfect care of the house. And have it in perfect condition. Tell me the price.”

After agreeing on the price, and the legal issues to sign, “Well, Mr. White, the following week, we signed the transfer of the property in my name. I will see you at the attorney’s office.”

“Thank you, angel, and also for choosing this place, where the food is delicious. I had already forgotten Mrs. Carmen’s famous dishes. Take care of yourself, and see you next week.” With that, Mr. White said goodbye to me. “Until next week, Mr. White, be careful on your way back home.”

Leaving the restaurant, I couldn’t believe it, “the little house is mine” I shouted with such euphoria, that the surrounding people stared at me funny. Ugh! The story of my life lately.

I had one more hour to get to my shooting class, so I took the opportunity to look in some shops that could take care of the renovation. If someone tells me there is no one, and I have to do it myself, I will quit life.

I saw a carpentry workshop on the corner, maybe they could help me. I walked towards the store and opened the door. Upon entering, a bell rang, announcing my arrival. A pregnant woman came out to attend to me. I couldn’t stop staring at her belly. The sadness enveloped my heart. Another dream that won’t come true.

“Good afternoon, how can I help you?” She asked, smiling, I shocked my head, and I plastered on my face one. “Hello, good afternoon, I have a house in the forest that needs urgent maintenance. I want to ask if you are available to do that kind of work, or if you know someone who can help me?” I waited for the answer with my fingers crossed.

“Oh! Princess, but of course, my husband, Jimmy, is responsible for this business, and he is the best at repairing and maintaining houses. You came to the right place, and the best thing now, we do not have many orders scheduled this month. If you like, we could start talking about what needs to be done on the property.”

Wow! Best day of my life so far, “What’s your name?” I asked because I wanted to know her better.

“Sure sweetie, I’m Sally, and whom do I have the pleasure with?” Oh! So polite.

“I’m Sandra,” I extended my hand to greet her, and she took it, doing the same. I described in detail what I wanted to do with my little house. I told her that I wanted the house to keep the same style but with an extension. Furthermore, a fence, the replacement of planks, and maintenance of others. When I was on my way to my appointment with Mr. White, I was thinking of painting it white, leaving some wooden parts. I think this idea will be great. So, I also included the painting.

Her husband, Jimmy, arrived 15 minutes later. He is a man in his 40s. I did not dare to ask. He’s very friendly and very talkative. He caught my idea immediately and also offered to check the property in case it needs any repair in places that I am not aware of.

Finally, we arranged an appointment for him to go to take measurements, and whatever else carpenters do before starting a job, I left with him my information, and my mobile number for anything.

Sandra

After leaving the carpentry workshop, I went to my car, picked up my shooting equipment, and I walked to the weapon store. I was so excited because today, I will shoot a gun for the first time. Who would have thought?

I entered the store and I saw Luke arranging some things on the shelves. I cleared my throat to get his attention. When he heard me, he turned around, and smiled at me saying, “Sandra, hello, good, you are already here.” This man has the most beautiful smile in the world. I could spend a whole day watching him. But coming back to reality, I returned the same smile hoping it was as beautiful as his, and I greeted him.

“Hi, Luke, did I interrupt you? I’m sorry, don’t worry about me, finish whatever you are doing, I’ll be here watching something to pass the time.”

“Oh! No, no, of course not, it is your class after all, and I will be your instructor. I am a serious person with my students, so show me what you brought. Are you lacking something?”

“No, nothing, I have everything,” I assured him. He took me to the back of the shop, and Oh! The practice field was huge, ha, ha! This town continues to surprise me. The place was also like in the movies. It was an impressive field, surrounded by small mountains. There were mounds of different sizes with different targets.

Some had mannequins, and other wooden squares with circles in the middle. Others were cardboard with a human body and different numbers. Wow! Double Wow! If all goes well, this will be my favourite place. I already can imagine myself as a professional. Shooting in the centre, right in the red circle, yes, yes. This is what I want.

Luke took me out of my volatile imagination when he said, “Sandra, safety is significant, for you, and for everyone who is around. You need to follow the instructions for the letter. We are handling real bullets and real weapons. These babies can kill anyone in a second, or leave that person paralyzed, or be severely injured. We do not want any of that to happen. That is why the government establishes rules that we, as service providers, have to follow; otherwise, we could face the risk of being shut down. But I won’t scare you any more, are you ready?” Swallowing hard, I assent by shaking my head as a sign of yes.

First, Luke told me how to use the equipment, and what it is for. Then, he explained how my rifle works, and what it was designed for. Afterwards, he told me the types of bullets my rifle would need. Finishing this brief lesson, he showed me some movements that I have to perform to warm up the muscles of the neck, shoulders, hands, and arms. He also told me how essentially the position of my legs is, and how to rotate my hips. He explained to me that these are the basics to learn to shoot correctly.

Many think it's just a matter of shooting and aiming, but in reality, this is the difference between hitting the target or missing it. The next step is to put on the equipment, a bulletproof vest, some visors, and earmuffs. Everything was ready.

First, he positioned me in front of a card human-shaped target and said, “Shoot.”

“What? Just like that?” I asked.

“Yes, of course, shoot. Try to hit the centre or wherever you can inside the body shape.” OK, if you say so, BANG!

“Hayyyy!” I almost flew backwards, “WHAT HAPPENED?” I looked at the target to see where the bullet hole was. “Did I hit it?” I was practically shouting, looking for the hole somewhere, but I did not find any. I turned to see Luke, and with a mocking smile, he pointed a finger at a pole far, but very far behind the target.

Directing my sight to where his finger was pointing, I saw a small hole. With a pout on my lips, I said, “It seems I didn’t.”

“No, Sandra, definitely not, and I’m going to ask you some questions. Did you maintain the position of your legs, and torso, as indicated?” I stared at him, trying to remember whether I did it or not.

“Did you keep your arms firm, and the wrist relaxed?” Maybe.

“And most importantly, did you open your eyes when you were shooting?”

Well. “I’m not certain,” I replied sadly. When I looked into his eyes, I only saw that beautiful face holding back the laugh. Luke was having fun at my expense. He managed to recover his attempt to hide his laughter by telling me, “No Sandra, you did not do anything that I told you to do, see? Not following the rules leads to mistakes.”

Hearing this reminded me how useless people see me. Occasionally, my hands can’t do anything right, and that’s why I’m alone. I forgot about it, and that is why I went to the little house in the forest in the first place. It can’t be, I think I’m not good, even for this. My face fell, and my eyes filled with unshed tears, my throat began to close, and I replied to Luke as I could.

“Sorry, Luke, you’re right, I think this isn’t going to work,” I put the gun on the table that was nearby, and took off my ear muffs. I was about to take off my visors when I heard Luke’s determined and serious voice.

“That’s right, Sandra, this isn’t going to work if you don’t try. This is not going to work if you don’t force yourself. This is not going to work if you give up the first time you tried. The reason people practice is to make themselves better and to overcome barriers, and limitations. If you ever fail, it is because “YOU” didn’t try again, and again. It’s because you gave up. It’s because no one was there to tell you that you should try again. That’s why you failed. But I’m here, and I’m going to ask you to try again; otherwise, you will continue to fail. So try hard and try harder. As humans, we’re not born knowing things. We need to learn, and practice. Remember what people say, “the practice makes perfection.”

I turned like lightning to face him. His expression moved my heart, but his eyes were telling me everything. They told me that I could count on him and that I should trust him. My tears began to flow, and I approached him slowly. Timidly, I hugged him, and he immediately hugged me back. I muttered a shy, “Thank you.”

Terry

It’s been two months since I last saw her. My mind is playing games with me. I need to know where she is. I’m very nervous, and I want answers. I’m desperate. “Sandra, Sandra, Sandra.” A tear fell on my desk, and I covered my face with both hands, covering my grief. Sadness was eating me, and the guilt was burning me alive. I was going crazy because I needed her here, with me. This is horrible, this separation is worse than I imagined.

My Sandra, “WHERE ARE YOU?” I screamed at the top of my lungs because this mixture of feelings is too strong, and I am drowning in despair. “I have to find you, Sandra.” I grabbed my mobile and dialled Carson’s phone for the fifth time this week. Even though he has not reported any change in the status of this investigation, I cannot help but ask again.

“Mr Kensington, I have a lead.” What? Did I hear right? I felt a shot of adrenaline hitting my stomach. “Tell me what you have, tell me Now!” My words show my desperation more and more. “I traced the license plates of the taxi that picked up Miss. Sandra that day, but the owner of the taxi was not the one who performed the service, It was his son. He was on holiday at his parents’ house.” Finally, we are getting somewhere.

“That day, Mr Roger Smith, who owns the taxi, had an upset stomach, so his son offered to take his place. His name is Charles Smith. He was the one who took care of all the clients that day.” Yes, I remember Sandra when she told me that someone was waiting for her downstairs. That must be him.

“He also informed me that his son is serving in the army, and it is very difficult to contact him when he is on a mission. I have all his details and already it is not possible to reach him. I have tried to find out his whereabouts, but that information cannot be disclosed. Mr Smith told me that his son had been assigned to a mission of approximately two months’ duration. Thereafter, they must return to the base, and remain there until they are reassigned. It is only at that time that we can locate him. Otherwise, it is impossible. Only he knows where he dropped off Miss Sandra that day, as I have already mentioned. The other thing that I discovered is that there were no records of bank movements or payments of any kind in her name.”

“So you are telling me that Sandra simply disappeared?” “Not necessarily Mr Kensington, Mr Smith received a good incentive from us to let us know as soon as his son returns from his mission, that he will contact us. Only then, we can speak to him.”

“What else, Carson?” There has to be more. “Yes Sir, the good thing is I have checked in at train stations, bus stations, and at the airport. There is no ticket purchased for Miss Sandra. This leads me to think she took the road after getting out of the taxi. And pending on the location where she has been dropped off, the next step is to look at car rental agencies, and dealerships for information, in case she has purchased or rented a vehicle.” “What?” Is he waiting for the soldier’s information to do his digging?

“Oh! No! Carson. I don’t want you to wait any longer. Immediately, search all the agencies, and dealerships. From the one closest to my mansion, until approximately five hours from a driving distance. You have to give me priority, it’s my woman we ​​are talking about. I want her with me now.”

Carson sighed loud enough for me to hear him. “Yes, Mr Kensington, I will. Please give me a few weeks to search. We are talking about thousands of establishments.” Resigned with the work that awaits him, we ended the call.

Sandra’s departure unleashed something in me. She awakened an instinct that I did not know I possessed. A need to have her here, by my side at all times, I wanted her total submission, worshipping me as she always did. My need for her opened the door to this black, and powerful feeling that I wasn’t able to contain any longer. I don’t know what it is, but It’s growing, filling my soul with its powerful emotions. As well, I’m so scared because this fear is getting worse. Something has been wrong with me since Sandra left me, and I don’t know how to fix it or make it stop.

By instinct, I opened my desk drawer and grabbed one of the many photos I have of her. Always had them on my desk, but not this time. I hid them, so Susan would not see them. I regret having done it. She should be known for the entire country as mine. In this photo, the first thing I saw was her beautiful face. I was next to her, with her friendly smile always present, and her eyes did not stop seeing me, really seeing me. The immense love she had for me is there, I can see it.

“Sandra, Sandra,” I ran my fingers over her mouth. “I love you so much, forgive me, my love.”

When I realized it, the photo was full of tears, I cleaned them carefully and placed the photo back on my desk. Then, I felt something forming in my gut, it was the same feeling since she left. Every day that passed, and she was not by my side, the thing intensified. A new consciousness with different ideas, and another determination, was surfacing. A new me, and this new me, cannot allow his most precious possession to be away.

My Sandra is now in a new position before my eyes. Mine, Mine. If I have to, I will force her to keep her word. She promised me she will be with me, and by my side forever, no matter what. She did promise, she swore to god her life to me. But this time, I’m going to make sure that she will never deny me anything again. It is her destiny. My eyes shone with a different kind of light, and with a renewed oath in my heart, I went to work.

∞∞∞

Another week has passed without knowing her whereabouts. Carson completely disappointed me. My woman should be with me right now, and she is not here yet. I have no other choice but to call him. He is perfect for this job, a true hunter, and I have never known him to fail. I dial the number that I swear to contact exclusively for emergencies, and this is a big one.

“Terry,” is all he said, “John, I needed you to find someone,” I waited for his answer.

“Send me the details by text,” with that said, he cut the call.

Well, his character is getting worse as the years pass. I texted him her information along with a photo, and within two minutes, he wrote back saying “Consider it done.” These are the words that I have been wanting to hear for months.

I have to focus on the Ramsey since Sandra is consuming all my thoughts, but now, I will leave it up to John. With that, I am free to act. I have to fix this mess, as soon as possible. I cannot bring Sandra home if Susan is still here. It would not bring anything good. Sandra would not make it easy for me, although if necessary, I would drag her here, no matter what.

I have coordinated from here the change of powers in Bolt company. Now, Kensington company. But unfortunately, I have to go to Paris to finish this transaction. I will leave the city for about a week. I estimate it will be enough time for John to give me the results. He is a dark soul, and I know he will do whatever it takes to get what I want. Unlike Carson, if this had occurred to me before, Sandra would be here right now.

This time, I will travel with my father. This is a gift I have prepared for him. He has every right to do this with me. I am sure he will be so surprised. The news will be so huge, that I'm already imagining his face, of course, Richard’s face too.

Now that circumstances are in our favour, I’m going to rub our position in his face and let’s not forget about my new company.

I texted my dad, Alex, and Frank to meet in the studio after lunch. Shortly after, I received everyone’s responses. I got to work on the Kensington-Ramsey business, and this whole plan that I’m making has to work perfectly. It is imperative to have this ready, before dissolving our partnership, and marriage. As part of the parting gift, this includes the Bolt company. All must be ready. And if everything goes my way, I will be free of Susan and her family. Everything can be negotiated, everything.

Terry

Time passed, and I was immersed in my work until Marta went to my office to let me know the food was ready. At that moment, I was starving. I had worked non-stop all morning. So, I went to the dining room and saw that everyone was already at the table. “Good afternoon, everyone,” I greeted them. Taking my seat, I waited for the food to be served.

“Terry, honey, you have been locked in the office all day. You need to spend more time with me.” I turned my head in Susan’s direction. I looked her straight in the eyes. If looks could kill, she would already be dead.

“Susan, dear.” My teasing tone made everyone turn their heads toward me. “There are people who have work to do and many responsibilities. Not all of us can spend time chatting and uploading photos on Facebook, like you. You are lucky, but I am not.” Susana looked the other way with an indignant face. If my attitude doesn’t suit her, she can leave whenever she wants. I'm not holding her back by force because, at this point, nothing matters to me.

Marta, and the staff, arrived with the food. I waited a moment, letting them finish serving because I wanted to talk to my dad.

“Dad, I have a surprise for you, but I’ll tell you the details along with the others in the study.” My father has been better lately. Having faced my mother’s ghost in the house, his spirits have improved considerably, and this trip, I am certain, will make him happier.

“And when you’re going to surprise me too, brother, you have abandoned me as well.” Alex makes a mocking face, referring to Susan’s input. It is not that they don’t get along, but the difference between Susan and Sandra is abysmal. We can’t help but compare them. Nobody wants to endure Susan’s tantrums and demands. Even Marta complains about how annoying she is.

I couldn’t help but laugh at this. And Susana wasn’t even aware of it, then it’s good she’s not so perceptive. “Of course, I have a surprise for you Alex, you’re also on my list, but don’t you worry, you’re going to be too busy with this surprise, to even think about other things.” With what I said, his mocking smile faded, he already knows where I’m going.

> Frank, on the other hand, was hushed. Since Sandra’s incident, he has not been the same. It appears that she took a piece of him when she left too. I will solve that very soon because the absence of my Sandra is affecting us all.

After we finished eating, the four of us went to the study. I took from the canteen four shots of tequila, and I gave them one each and joined them on the couch.

“I have news,” is how I started. “Of what?” Alex asked.

“Of many things, let me go in order. First, I have to go to Paris, again, to complete the transfer of powers of the Bolt company, and you will be going with me,” I pointed my finger towards my dad.

“This is the surprise I had prepared for you.” My father’s face was comical when he heard this.

“Me? What things could I be doing in Paris if not to buy a good perfume?” My dad is out of shape.

“Dad, this is your right. You deserve this more than anyone. I want you to be there when Richard loses everything. I want you to see him defeated, and at your feet, That’s what I want.”

“Excellent, son. You are right. I will go.” Well, I will have more satisfaction seeing Richard sign his life to us.

“And my surprise is a trip to Paris too?” Alex the buffoon gets into the conversation.

“Ha!, Alex, the only trip you will take will be to the company’s headquarters every day, what do you think?” His fed-up face showed up.

“OK, I’ll just do it because you are asking me nicely.” My brother was already resigned to his fate.

“Frank, I need you with us.” I gave that order without him being able to refuse. He said nothing, just rolled his eyes, unhappy with my decision.

“And when are we going to leave?” Dad asked.

“Tomorrow.” With that said, I finished the meeting and retired to my office. After finishing some work, I called Susan to my office, and yes, she took her sweet time coming. She opened the door without bothering to knock first, walked straight to the couch, and she sat down. Then, she took her cell phone from her pocket and started doing what only she does best.

Seeing her lack of respect, I only raised an eyebrow in annoyance. Unfortunately, I can’t do anything else at the moment.

> “Susan, I have to go on a trip tomorrow. It will take me about a week to get back. I’m going with my dad and Frank. Alex will be responsible for all company affairs like last time. If you or your dad need anything, contact him. I'm afraid I will be too busy to help you.

“What? Leaving? Where? Why so suddenly? We practically came back.” Her squeaky voice was filling my eardrums.

“This is the way things are in this business, you should already know that,” I answered dryly.

“Where are you going?” Susan asked.

“We are going to Paris”, I said impatiently.

“What? To Paris? And do you want me to stay here? No joke, I’m going with you. This house is very sooooooo boring, and I need to entertain myself with something else. Besides, if it is something that has to do with the company, it is also my business. I remind you that you are not alone in this. What we have is a partnership, and it has more than one part. In this case, I am the other part.” Shit! “Susana, this is a work trip, not pleasure, I will not have time to take care of you.”

I got up from my desk and went to the couch. I stopped in front of her, and screeched my teeth, saying, “I will repeat it, I will NOT have time to take care of you.”

She got up from the couch, and took two steps back, raising her head, and looking into my eyes. “I DO NOT CARE. Get the idea that I’ll go tomorrow and period.” With that said, she turned around and left my office, leaving me standing there, wallowing in my anger.

While I watched her walk away, I said through my teeth, “We’ll see who laughed last, idiot girl.” That is how it ended. Damn it, more problems. Nobody can find out about this yet.

I went to the kitchen to talk to Marta. She was cooking something that smelled pretty good. When I got closer, I asked her, “What are you cooking? That smells amazing,” Marta suddenly turned around with a jump.

“Ah! Terry, don’t scare me like that, I don’t like it, OK?” I shrugged my shoulders, promising nothing.

“It is a dish I like to make a lot. This recipe I learned this from Sandra. It is one of her favourite dishes. But as well, it’s one of the few recipes she could make, or maybe the only one? I’m not certain. As you know, the kitchen was not her strength. Her Mom made a gigantic effort to teach her this one in particular. Although I remember, she mentioned it was her dad’s favourite dish. Her mom insisted she learns it, that’s how I know it. Try it. It’s delicious.”

She pointed a finger in the direction of the cupboard, “Give me a plate from the cupboard to serve you a little.” I did as Marta indicated, and I tried a little. Oh! Yes, I remember it being one of her favourite dishes.

“Marta, pack my dad’s clothes for a week. Frank, Susan, Dad and I are going to Paris tomorrow morning. Send a maid to help Susan with her things only because I believe Frank can take care of his own, ask him anyway. I don’t need help, I already have everything ready.”

After a while in silence, I continued enjoying my food until Marta broke the silence. “Terry, I miss her. The guilt that, I feel, is not small. I should support her more. Will I ever see her again?”

I looked up from the plate and with a calculating look, I said.“Soon, very soon.”

Sandra

After my shooting class, which lasted two hours, I came out with a great feeling of achievement. I think I did quite well for the first time. I am very proud of my effort, and I did push myself. Luke wouldn’t let me rest, not even for a moment. His excuse was that I was paying him by the hour, and he would make sure I received the best service.

Ha! That man did get me tired. I am truly grateful to him because I was able to get out of that crisis with his help. At times, the depression hits me very hard, at others, it passes by. Occasionally, it can last for days, and I’m starting to get sick of this, but I can’t do anything to end it.

It has to do with my self-esteem. It comes to me suddenly and goes the same way. Looking at it, it seems to me that they are decreasing in intensity during those last weeks, which is something. Before, I felt like my throat was closing. Like I was suffocating, I am not feeling that way any more. I deserve an award for that.

Tomorrow will be a very fascinating day. I will have to get up early to receive Jimmy. What a good, and fascinating day I will have tomorrow. I don’t know if Sally will come, Mm! It is already night to call them, I better cook something extra. I went to my room to have a shower, and watch television.

That’s my routine. It was hard for me to fall asleep, so I decided to try with the television on, and I succeeded. All I did was program the automatic shutdown and that’s it. That night was peaceful. I went to bed looking out the window, I left it open. Today is the new moon, and there is a magnificent halo around it. Call me childish, or whatever you want, but I have always fantasized about a supernatural world among us, and I sometimes wished to be something else. When I closed my eyes, my dreams began to take shape.

∞∞∞

My alarm rang at 6:00 am. This is the bad thing about living in a town. Everyone, without exception, wakes up before 6 o’clock. What a pain in the ass. Fortunately, it would only be one day.

Ah! What a dream I had. I have a slight suspicion that living in the middle of nature is awakening wild instincts in me. Maybe in a few more months, I will lose my humanity and go searching for a pack of wolves to be part of it. Ha, ha! How crazy, I like this country life. I am already damaged beyond salvation, it seems.

But going back to reality, I fixed myself up a bit and put on some very comfortable pants. I’m afraid this day will be very busy. After getting dressed, I immediately went down to prepare something quick for breakfast. I went first to my coffee machine. I can’t start the day without my coffee. As well, I made extra for when Jimmy arrives. Some fried eggs, with fried bacon, sound perfect.

So, I got to work, while the eggs were cooking. I fixed the room like lightning. I never have or expect visitors, so I don’t worry much about where I leave my things, but today at the very least, that is why I must prove that I am not a hopeless case.

I went back to the kitchen to remove the eggs and bacon from the fire, and toast some bread. This smells good, and it is also one of the few things that work for me, and it’s obvious because there is not much to elaborate on, but it could have been worse. I was about to pour myself another cup of coffee when I heard a knock on the door. It’s Jimmy. Finally! I hurried to open it, and there he was, Jimmy, with his friendly smile, and a square bag hanging from his shoulder. It looks heavy. “Oh! Jimmy, how good that you came, all good on the way? Did you not get lost? The first time I came here, I was somewhat terrified. If it weren’t for my GPS, I would have reached Niagara Falls, but I see it is not your case. Some people are perfect at finding an address, Jimmy, but that is not me. But please come in. Tell me, how is Sally? I wanted to ask you yesterday if she would come, but it was too late when I remembered, and I decided not to.”

“Wow! Woman, stop. Your lungs are going to dry up if you don’t breathe. One, all good on the road. Two, I never get lost. Three, Sally sent greetings, but she had to stay to tend the shop in my absence, happy?”

“Oh! Mm! Yes, I embarrassed myself. Sporadically, this happens to me. I can’t stop and, well, I end up like this. But at the end of everything, we are still friends, right? And it is not as if I were committing murder. Or, how to get your organs, and sell them to an elderly millionaire who is about to die if he does not receive a transplant. Oh! I’m sorry, I did it again. Forget it, please come in, I make breakfast, I hope you are hungry.”

Once I finished humiliating myself with my verbal vomit, I directed Jimmy to the kitchen. This one really is small, so we sat down to eat on the couches. We used the coffee table to put the plates.

“Well?” I asked Jimmy anxiously, directing my view to his food. “Yes, excellent. Why do you ask? Is it the first time you cook?”

Oh! “No, but you’re not wrong either, I don’t often cook, or ever. Since I got here, I’ve lived off cans, see?” I pointed my finger at the cupboard that held entire rows of cans. Which probably will last for several months.

“Double Wow! That is shocking. I have not seen so many cans together in the same place, not even in the supermarket. There are so many here.”

“HA, HA, HA!” Laugh after laugh, I think I have never laughed so much. This man is hilarious.

“You’re bad, Jimmy, HA, HA, HA!” How incredible it is to have visitors. That’s the only thing I’ve missed being here, and that’s why I treasure the visits to town.

After finishing breakfast, Jimmy helped me with the dishes, and when we finished, we headed outside the house. Jimmy began to assess the house, the land, the surface, and everything else that a builder does.

“This house is very well-founded. From what I can see, you are right. Some planks need to be changed and others only need to be covered with anti-humidity varnish. The roof has to be completely replaced. You have to decide what you want to put instead. There are several options for that, like, tile, planks made of wood, stone, or cement. Please let me know your choice.”

“I want the same style of tiles, those are beautiful. I don’t want to change the essence,” I quickly confirmed. “Where do you want the fence?” Jimmy asks me, pointing to the outskirts of the field.

“Jimmy, I want two fences. One that surrounds all my property, and the other, around my house, and a little extra land which I am going to turn into a garden. You have to help me with that. I want the best place to make the plants, and flowers I plant, grow beautifully.”

What a thrill, my garden. Jimmy was taking notes and making his measurements of the terrain and the facade of the house. He told me he needed to see the inside, diagnose the condition of the walls, study, and determine the best way to build the extension.

“Well, I already have your idea, I already know how to solve the staircase problem too,” Jimmy knows what he is doing. How lucky that I ran into them.

“Sandra, I have everything I need to make your quote. I will also include a diagram of what the modifications will look like.”

“Jimmy,” I was forgetting something important. “Could you take care of installing security cameras?”

“No problem, I’ll talk to the tech guy.” I’m so lucky.

“Thank you very much, Jimmy. You don’t know how happy I am. When everything is finished, it will look wonderful. Say hello to Sally, I hope to see you soon.”

Jimmy said goodbye, and I made sure he would bring Sally next time.

Sandra

It was 2:00 pm when Jimmy left. I was sad since his visit made my day quite pleasant. I went to the kitchen to prepare something decent to eat. Jimmy stirred something in me.

Furthermore, I must learn to cook. It is not possible for someone my age to have these kinds of limitations. Taking online classes is what I decided. I have all the time in the world and a lot to learn. I thought of something I would eat. It has to be an easy dish.

I went to the cupboard to get an idea, and finally, I knew what to do. Chinese Roast Chicken Noodles, what could go wrong with that? I took the frozen chicken, veggies out of the freezer and a packet of noodles, some spices, and soy sauce. Looking at all the ingredients on the table, I hesitated a bit. I decided to build courage and eat a decent meal today.

First, I defrosted the chicken and the vegetables, then I went to my tablet and connected to YouTube. I looked for a recipe with this title. One that seemed good enough was what I chose. I followed each of the steps that the woman was doing in the video.

After 30 minutes of struggle, finally, it’s done. But I don't understand why my dish looks different from hers when did this happen? I wonder what made the noodles look so weird, they are in bits, and they look just “weird” Well, maybe it’s the brand I bought. Not much to do, but try it. I grabbed a fork and ate a bite. Oh! OKAY! It doesn’t taste bad, but the texture is peculiar. Will it be this way? The noodles feel doughy, which is odd. I’ve never had one like this. It has to be this brand of noodles, now confirmed.

Finally, I finished my plate, proudly homemade noodles.

“My first homemade noodles.” I had just realized it. The first dish in my new house, in my new life, Mmm. Now they taste so delicious. Proud of my work, I decided to take a walk through my forest because it is already my forest. It was sunset time.

My eyes were glued to this wonderful image. The beauty of nature affects me in a way that I cannot explain before. I did not see things this way when I was living in the city. Probably the evil of the place where I was living blinded me, but when I left there, my soul could finally be at peace. I finished my walk and headed home. So much excitement in a single day. Upon entering, I went to my bedroom. I changed my clothes for my pyjamas, and I went to bed. Tomorrow will be a good day too.

∞∞∞

A week has passed since my appointment with Mr. White, and today, I had my meeting with him at the lawyer’s office. The house will be mine. The lawyer told me by phone that he only needed official identification, my signature, and, of course, the money. I have a little reserve to use the bank money, but it is a lot for me to pay in cash. This type of movement can’t be helped. My parents left me a lot of money in their bank account. I was the beneficiary. But before that, I had my own. That is the bank account known to him, but not the other one. I never bother to let him know.

But thinking better, I’m not worried about them coming looking for me, they won’t. Least of all, him. However, what I want is to disappear from their lives forever. They don’t have to know anything about me. Nonetheless, I have no other choice but to do it this way. The attorney’s office opens at 9:00 am. Fortunately, I was not summoned at 6 or 7 in the morning. My appointment is at 11:00 am.

I decided not to have breakfast at home. There are many places in town to choose from. The food is incredible everywhere. I will take advantage of one of those unbelievable breakfasts. When I was ready, I got in my car and stepped on the gas.

The trip to town was pleasant as always, and without incident. When I arrived, I looked for a restaurant that looked good. Didn’t take me long to find one. This town continues to surprise me. This place seems out of a magazine from the 40s. I hope the food is just as surprising.

A teenager no more than 16 years old came to attend to me. She is beautiful, and most of the people in this town are.

“Hello, welcome to “Yummy Cake.” I hadn’t seen you around,” The girl said, very intrigued.

“Oh, it’s my first time eating here. I was just passing by, and this place caught my attention. I said to myself, why not try it? By the way, my name is Sandra.” I extended my hand to greet her. She saw it, and immediately took it, with a kind squeeze.

“I’m Ronda, nice to meet you. We don’t have new people every day.”

She was so excited to talk to someone new. I imagine being a teenager, and living in such a peaceful town, must be a bit boring.

“I live about two hours away. This is the closest town to me, the other would take me three and a half hours to arrive. Two hours is enough for my backside.” Thinking about the pain in the butt that the long journey would cause me.

“OK Sandra, this is the menu, look in section two, you will find the dishes I like the most. I’m telling you this because I want you to come back often. Take a look and tell me what you fancy.”

OK. The moment I turned my gaze to section two, as Ronda indicated, my eyes almost popped out of their sockets. Am I in paradise? Yes, definitely. I did not know where to start looking. Crêpes, pancakes, muffins, croissants, peach tarts, yoghurt with fruit, sweet cream bread, biscuits with butter and jam, orange pancakes with sweet cream on top, and the list goes on. I didn’t know what to do.

After debating for a few minutes, I decided on sweet bread with cream, a peach cake, and a cappuccino. Ronda took my order and went to the kitchen to have it prepared, then, she went to a very nice coffee pot, and began to prepare my cappuccino.

“Sandra, do you want chocolate or cinnamon powder on top?” I replied, “Cinnamon, please.”

Once my cappuccino was ready, she took it to the table, and sat in the chair, opposite me. It didn’t bother me, but I thought it was funny. That is where the questions began. Where I live, if I have children, where I lived before how old I am, if I was married, etc.

I did my best to answer everything in a friendly way, as remembering certain people would make my day miserable.

“Ronda, order ready,” I heard someone yell from the kitchen, YEA! I said mentally. Ronda got up from the table and went to get my order. She came out of the kitchen with an exasperated face, making faces of disagreement. Behind her was a woman of small stature, with very broad hips, and butt. An apron was tied around her waist. That must be the cook.

What a vision! She was holding my order on a tray.

She walks over to my table with a gigantic smile. “Honey, here you go,” She grabs plate by plate from the tray and arranges them on my table.

Looking at all that deliciousness altogether, I turn to look at her with so much gratitude.

“Thank you very much.” Wow. Everything looks magnificent. Ronda was right about this. They will have me here very frequently. My smile was from ear to ear when I introduced myself.

“My name is Sandra,” I extended my hand to greet her.

“I am Raquel, Ronda’s mother.” As I did, she extended her hand to greet me. After they left, I practically devoured my breakfast. I couldn’t help it, it was the sweetest thing I’ve ever tasted. How I wanted to live with someone who could prepare these wonders for me every day. Ronda was so lucky.

After paying and thanking them, I went to the Lawyer’s office. There were 15 minutes left for my appointment. This life I am having is on another level. If I had known about the existence of this place, I would have already been living here for years. Not only is the place a fairy tale, but here, the people are beautiful and kind. I can tell that the corruption of humanity has not touched this place yet.

I walked without realizing that I had reached my destination. Standing in front of the notary, I adjusted my clothes, and with all the confidence in the world, I took a step forward.

Terry

We were all on our way to the airport. Dad and Frank were talking about the global economic situation and the development of new communication technologies. They were very much involved in the conversation on those critical issues when I noticed Susan looking up from her mobile. She stared at them in disbelief.

I thought she probably wanted to argue something about the topic, but the incredulous turned out to be me when she opened her mouth.

“Come on, Ian. How is it possible for you, to discuss new technologies, and the world economy if you’ve been in a cell for 10 years? And you Frank, please, be more realistic. Don’t embarrass your dad that way, better discuss less complicated issues with him. I bet Ian doesn’t even have a Twitter account.” Oh, no, no, no! She couldn’t have said that. I was about to put her in her place when Frank beat me to it.

“Susan, didn’t your parents teach you at home, not to get involved in adult conversations? Better go back to Facebook, and post a little more of your selfies. That is your expertise, right?” Susan didn’t say anything after that. My dad did not take offense. He simply isn't concerned about the opinion of someone like her. Of course, he did not say anything honouring me. Frank is another thing, he could not shut up, and allow injustice. Ha! My family knows how to defend themselves.

After half an hour, we reached the airport. The driver dropped us off at the door, and the VIP area staff took care of the rest. The plane took off at 10:00 am.

My dad and Frank were seated in the other row of seats. I couldn’t talk much with them. Susan was next to me, and for more than half the flight, she told me about how incredible and cool her friends were. Susan even offered to introduce Frank to them. According to her, he was so bitter because he did not know anyone as cool as them.

Hearing this, Frank turns his head to the other side and feigns ignorance. My dad slept for most of the flight, waking up just to eat, and go to the bathroom. That’s fine, that way, the jet lag won’t hit him so hard. I, on the other hand, was dealing with work. I took advantage of the little time when Susan closed her mouth.

I was very uncomfortable, something was keeping me restless. Sandra’s whereabouts. I constantly checked my mobile, and my email in case Carson or John had any news. Unfortunately, there was nothing. I tried to relax and reassure myself that John was the best tracker, so I should leave everything to him. One way, or another, I will have to hear from him, it was a matter of waiting.

Arriving in Paris, we headed to the same hotel where we stayed last time. Frank and my dad decided to stay in the same room, probably trying to make up for the lost time. Obviously, Susan, in mine. We were all so tired, and we decided to order room service. Susan was the only one wanting to go out.

“Terry, I would like to go to the nightclub that I told you about the other time. I called some friends and told them I would come to Paris for a week. They will join the trip. I’m going to meet them in the lobby of our hotel in an hour. Are you certain? You would rather not come? Frank can come too, he can meet Gaby and Karen.”

What a nuisance. I have no time or humour left for this. “No! Susan, do you remember what my purpose is for coming to Paris? Let me refresh your memory,” I raised my voice a little more to make my position clear.

“Work, Susan. I am here because I have a lot of work to do, many appointments to attend, and many documents to review. Tomorrow will be a very long day, and I am not going to wake up with a hangover. Now, if you want to go out, I won’t stop you.”

“Then, do not complain later! I’m going to get ready,” Susan ran to the bathroom to have a bath and get ready to be on time.

After she said goodbye, I took the opportunity to have a shower and get ready to go to bed. The alarm on my mobile woke me up. It was 7:00 am. I noted that Susan had not arrived yet. That bothered me too much. I’m not here to waste my time with her, and less to babysit her.

I checked my text messages, hoping to find something from her. Susan, Susan, ah! There it was. A message from last night, that's the only one that I received, and it said like this. “My love, I’m with my friends, and this place is super. We decided to stay here until closing, then we all went to Karen’s rest house on the outskirts of Paris. I’ll be here for a few days, we have a lot to buy, but if you get bored, call me.” Followed by many emoticons.

Well, it could be worse. “Stay out of trouble, contact me if you need anything,” I finished writing the message and sending it to her when Frank came into the room with my dad behind. They were ready, and I just woke up.

“What? Where is the golden girl? Do not tell me she already jumped from your bed to a new one. Terry, your skills must be very disappointing. I would not blame her, you know? The French have a very enviable reputation. But look at the bright side, she will come up with new tricks, and even you will be grateful for that.”

“Frank, in case you haven’t noticed, I just woke up. It’s too early for your bullshit.” Why are they here so early? I wonder. I put the mobile on the bedside table, and got out of bed, heading to the bathroom. From inside, I could hear Frank’s teasing. I deserve it for being an idiot. When I came out, they were still there, “OK, and what’s the plan? We have a meeting at 11:00 am at Bolt headquarters.” I pointed out.

“Yes, what we want to do is go, and have breakfast. Get ready and go down to the restaurant with us, we will be waiting for you there. Do not delay, or we will start without you.” My dad added. Breakfasts in France are always spectacular.

After finishing our meal, we left the hotel and got into the limousine that was waiting for us. Half an hour later, we were at Bolt’s offices. At first glance, I could tell that Father was nervous. Not every day do you take over your worst enemy’s company. “Easy, Dad, we have this. He is finished, only the last nail is missing from his coffin, and that honour is yours.”

“Son, this is very difficult. Thanks to him, your mother is no longer with us. She died knowing I would remain in jail forever, and I wasn’t with her the last days of her life.” Yes, I get that. I didn’t say anything else, what’s the point? He is right.

We went to the mezzanine, and immediately the door was opened for us. A whole contingent of employees came out to greet us. The one who announced the change of ownership in the company did a good job of letting them all know.

An assistant led us to a giant office. At the door, I could see the sign announcing “presidency.” Ah! This is my new office then. The attendant opened the door and asked us to come in.

He directed me to my desk and said, “Bienvenu Directeur Kensington. I am your assistant. My name is Abelard Dubois. I am here to serve you in whatever way you need, and of course, your family.” Saying that he turns his attention to my dad and Frank.

My dad cleared his throat, calling to the attention of the assistant, “Nice to meet you, Abelard, I am Ian, my son, Frank, and my son, Terry, the new owners of this company. We appreciate the welcome.”

Frank sat in an armchair and just watched our interaction with Abelard, then I said, “Assistant Abelard, my family, and I will be here for a week. As you will know, we have to change things in this company, and establish new rules by the end of our stay.” The next question I asked surprised everyone in the office. “Assistant Abelard, do you want to continue working in this company?” The assistant widened his gaze, and I saw his skin change colour.

“Directeur Kensington, oui, I want to continue working here. I have dedicated the last ten years of my life to serving this company” He answered with determination, and without hesitation. That is the attitude I was looking for.

“I ask you this, assistant Abelard because, as you know, all the staff working in my company were hired under the parameters of the administration of the former director Richard. I want absolute loyalty to myself. Do you understand the extent of what I am telling you?”

Assistant Abelard watches me closely for a few seconds, before answering. “Directeur Kensington, I understand very well what you are saying. For my part, I offer my complete loyalty to you, your family, and this company. I also offer to clean up the staff that I consider could be controversial to your new administration.” Wow! I wasn’t expecting this.

“Excellent, assistant Abelard, the position is still yours, of course. But I want your devotion in writing, and you will have legal consequences if it is broken. As well, as all employees who remain with us. When you leave this office, go to the legal department, and thanks to the lawyers, draw up a new contract, with the characteristics that I indicate, then send it to me for approval. Assistant Abelard, as well, arranges a conference with all the employees who will remain after the election, one day before our departure. I want to make one thing clear, choose according to capabilities, and personal attributes. I would rather not have problems later. No matter how long they have served this company, I repeat. I want ability and loyalty. Finally, assistant Abelard sent me all the representatives of each area. Give me an hour between each interview, and I will take care of them. You have little time to coordinate all this. Assistant Abelard, don’t disappoint me.” Assistant Abelard finally left the office.

My dad and Frank helped me with the directors that we considered were good for our cause. One by one, we interview them, we assess their weaknesses and strengths, then we decide whether that person will stay or leave. The day passed quite busy, and I was tired of seeing so many people. Although almost everyone spoke English, the accent made the words difficult to understand.

At some point during the day, I received a message from Susan, sending me photos of her and her friends in the nightclub last night. Other photos were in a pool, and she and her friends were topless, WTF! And one in the shopping centres, Wow! How is it possible that they are in so many places in just one day?

I returned the message, “All good over here, a lot of work.” I’m not expecting her to mind, I’m just replying to be cordial.

We left the company quite late, and we went straight to the hotel, all fed up and tired. The thing I wanted the most was to lie in bed.

I went into my room and changed into my pyjamas as quickly as I could. Already in bed, I checked my messages for the last time, but still nothing. I closed my eyes and imagined Sandra snuggled in my arms.

Terry

The following days were the same, meeting after meeting. Half of the company had been laid off. The remaining employees were working very hard to comply with the new rules. It seems everything will work out once they adjust to the changes.

Today is the day when I will have the general meeting with the entire company. The function room is magnificent, huge, and equipped with all kinds of technology. All the staff was present, and my Dad and Frank were with the board of directors. All of them were seated on the podium behind me.

Silence surrounded the place, and the expectations for the type of speech I would give were palpable. Everyone was waiting. I started my speech in this way: “The Bolt company is dead. Today, a new chapter opens for everyone. You now work for the Kensington company.” With applause and shouts of welcome, I continued my speech.

∞∞∞

Today was the day we returned home, and I’m really pissed off. Yesterday, I practically had to drag Susan to the hotel. I sent two bodyguards to look for her at her friend’s house since she did not answer my calls, or reply to any texts.

The security guys I sent to take care of her throughout the trip reported to me that she was partying every night, non-stop. She slept very late, and only woke up to get ready and leave again.

The bodyguards found her naked, along with most of the guests who were at the party. The pool area was a mess. People passed out everywhere. Some were having sex in full view. Susan was one of them. She and her “friend” were in full swing. Disgusting bitch, the two of them completely wasted.

This better not come to light, the repercussions on my new company would cost my credibility. I couldn’t describe how pissed I was. It was one of the biggest disrespects I’ve suffered so far. Not only did I find out, but my dad, Frank, everyone at the party, and even my security staff did.

But after all that, we made it to the airport after Susan really threw a tantrum. She practically was on the floor, kicking and screaming to let her go back to the party. Once we boarded the plane, exhaustion defeated her, and thank god, she slept the entire flight.

Once we arrived in Vancouver, the driver was waiting for us at the airport exit, to take us home. Suddenly, a group of reporters intercepted us. I was bombarded with questions about our second trip to Paris. About the acquisition of the Bolt company, and my father’s release from prison. How the hell did they find out that we would arrive at this time? Damn.

We answered the questions that suited us the best, the uncomfortable ones, and we left them blank. My father took the opportunity to clear his name and “thanks” the legal system because, in the end, justice was served. Ha! Justice, yes, right! But what else could we say?

My security team helped us to go through the sea of reporters. Stubbornly, we managed to get into the limousine with all the stress heavy on our shoulders. Once inside the vehicle, I leaned my head on the backrest and closed my eyes. Everyone was hushed, which was a giant relief for me because I wanted to disappear from the world at that moment. It was already dark when we got to the Kensington mansion.

When we arrived home, Marta had our food ready, but I refused. All I wanted was to have a shower and rest. Because the next day, I had to deal with the information that the press wrote about the trip to Paris and, specifically, what Susan did there.

∞∞∞

The next day, after contacting the newspapers very early, I paid a lot of money to delete some photos of Susan in slutty clothes, dancing with friends at the nightclub.

Others are around in the malls, and the most embarrassing ones, are the party at her friend Karen's house.

I was so mad at her, that I decided to dial her father. The dial tone rang twice before I heard Theodor’s voice.

“Terry, son, I can imagine why you’re calling me.”

“That’s right, Theodore, I didn’t call you to say hello. I have to put an immediate stop to your daughter’s disgraceful behaviour. It is an embarrassment to my family because she bears my last name. This trip to Paris was critical for business, but she decided to come even though I refused. And while I was working endlessly, she was partying, getting drunk, doing drugs, and having sex with the first one who stood in front of her. My reputation is at stake because of Susan’s depravity.”

I was fuming, and no excuse from Theodor could make me change my mind. “I want you to come to get her. I would rather not see her here any more.”

I heard clearly how Theodor passed his saliva when he heard this. “Terry, calm down, we have many commitments together. You can’t cancel them just because of this incident. Susan is young and impulsive. Give her another chance.”

I couldn’t believe what he was saying. Amazing! “Theodor, don’t mistake youth for STUPIDITY.

“I will not change my mind about this. I have the upper hand. Not only that, but I have evidence, and witnesses if you want to take this to court, and the result for you would be something you could not afford. Do yourself a favour and let’s get this over with for good. I don’t want her here in my house! You understand me?”

A horrible headache was starting to form. I just wanted to cut off this call and throw the phone as far away as possible. “Okay, Terry, take it easy please, I’ll stop by this afternoon, and we will solve this in a civilized way. Don’t worry, I will take her with me.”

∞∞∞

That same day, in the afternoon, Theodor showed up to pick up his daughter. He had previously spoken with her on the phone, obviously. I don’t know the content of the conversation between her and her father, but Susan was unable to look me in the eye. She deserves what awaits her, and more. Nobody makes fun of me.

Susan left the house that day. All her things, I sent them back, and I have not heard from her again.

∞∞∞

A week has passed since the incident, and around the mansion is very calm. The problem with the press could be contained, and my new branch in Paris was taking its course. All this, as it should be.

But I was in my office reviewing the report assistant Abelard sent me. Those are the performances of the workers this week. Seeing the results, it’s obvious the transition has been correct, and they are responding well to the new regulations. But suddenly, at that moment, a strange sensation invaded my body. I raised my head and looked directly at my mobile. I watched it closely and couldn’t take my eyes off it for some strange reason.

It rang suddenly, making my body jump in shock. I walked over to where it was and managed to see “John” on the screen. I was starting to sweat cold, so I grabbed it as fast as I could and opened the message to read it.

“Terry, this is the address where you can find Sandra.”

John.

Sandra

Officially, I am the owner of my little house. The process was fast. I didn’t have to do anything, apart from sign, and pay. Mr. White was the one who had to get all the documentation requested. But now it’s mine! I could not contain so much emotion. That dream house is mine, and no one could take it away from me now.

Leaving the Office, Mr. White and I went to celebrate at Mrs. Carmen’s restaurant. When we finished eating, and it was time to say goodbye, I assured Mr. White that I would visit him from time to time. Ah! How good it feels to live such a peaceful life. Not having to care and worry about anything or anyone. This is how I want to live from now on. Me, for me.

For the first time in my life, I am savouring an achievement, a real one. This is how it must have always been. I should have made myself happy, and not others. How blind I was. But now that I have opened my eyes, the only thing I will do is pamper myself until death.

This was the first step to building the perfect house, and the perfect life because discovering happiness here, and a place where I can be free, and decide for myself, is something that I never thought about.

This town couldn’t be better because I am surrounded by good people. They welcomed me with smiles, despite not knowing me. People who have supported me, and encouraged me to do things that I never thought of doing. I was so grateful to everyone in this place. Oh. God, how much I love Cariboo town.

That same day, I went to visit each of my acquaintances with a box of chocolates. I shared the great news with them and as expected, everyone congratulated me and offered their help if I needed anything. Before going home, I preyed on the trip, bought some electrical appliances that I required, and renewed my internet payment.

Later, I went to the supermarket and bought a supply of white wine. For some reason, it had not occurred to me to buy before, but now the occasion deserves it.

I finished my shopping and headed home. I want to continue celebrating there. The trips to the town are becoming less tedious because I am getting used to the road. Finally, at home, I dealt with the groceries and installed my new appliances. Then I prepared a light dinner (actually defrosted a food package), and went up to my room. I dislike eating here, but I have to look for something on the Internet, so today I will make an exception.

I took out a bottle of wine, and that is how I started my afternoon.

∞∞∞

The remarkable wine that I was drinking didn't do me any good because I started to think about my life. I was a 25 years old woman, with zero achievements. Not a single one in my life. I only lived for him.

The career I studied at university is of no use to me now. It never worked for me. I graduated as an accountant, but when I started seeking employment, he convinced me not to. He said he wanted me with him, that he needed me. Working was going to take a lot of my time, and for love, I decided to put my career aside.

Badly done, awfully done. I was blind, and now looking back, I was feeling sorry for myself. Well, I didn't regret that much not practicing accounting because my real passion is psychology. I did not pursue that career, since I wanted to be with him, anywhere he was.

When I was about to enroll in Psychology, I saw him walking to the Department of Business and Administration. He took my breath away, and my eyes since that moment followed him everywhere. He was studying business. And in that precise moment, my mind focused on him only. I pushed my psychology degree aside and decided to join him. I was so naive. All on me.

But I have no limits now, no one to follow. I am going to do an online career in psychology. I have a lot of time on my hands, and zero distractions, I definitely do.

∞∞∞

After endless online searching, I found a good university offering this degree, and it’s a hundred percent online. I registered, did the procedure, and sent my IDs. That’s it. I am officially a psychology student.

I’m uncertain if I will be able to exercise, but definitely, I am going to enjoy studying.

∞∞∞

The next day, I received Jimmy’s quote by email. I checked everything, and I liked the plan a lot. The material that he included is great too. It really looks good. Ah! Who am I kidding? I have no idea, but I trusted him. So, I responded immediately, telling him that he could start the construction as soon as possible. Based on what he wrote, it would take a full week to finish everything. Works for me. I’m so eager to see the result that one week will be a long one.

∞∞∞

Jimmy will start tomorrow. He warned me that he would be arriving very early. I wonder exactly when it will be too early for him. I’ll be ready at six anyway. It seems like a good time to start working Ha, Ha, Ha! That sounded wrong… Before going to bed, I prepared everything for tomorrow. I defrosted some food packages so that it would take less time to warm them up. When I finished all that I had to do, it was really late, but with all the advantages I accomplished, I went to bed.

A knock on the door woke me up. My alarm hasn’t rung yet. What time will it be? I sat on the bed, trying to steady my brain. I heard the door again. With all the pain in the world, I got up and went downstairs.

When I opened it, I was greeted by an icy wind that made me wake up for real. It was Jimmy, and two other guys were with him. I’m embarrassed!

“Oh! My god, Jimmy, it's you. You said early, but not SO Early. Come in please.”

Jimmy stood in the doorway for a few seconds, without saying anything. Hell! My neurons are still not well, and Jimmy is acting weird. “What, what is wrong?”

“You are scary. Not every day I am greeted with this vision,” Jimmy moved his arms over me, up and down. What? Is that so bad? Well, everybody looks terrible in the morning. I touched my face, trying to clear my face.

Seeing my reaction, Jimmy clarified. “It’s the scariest onesie I’ve ever seen in my life when you opened the door. I almost had a heart attack, right, guys?” Turning to see his friends, all were laughing in unison.

Then it clicked, I was wearing my Randall Boggs onesie. The monster villain from the film Monsters Inc. comes with built-in claw slippers. I saw my outfit, and my face turned red from embarrassment.

“I didn’t plan this, you know?” When I could breathe again, I remembered to let them in. Then I ran upstairs to get changed. After five minutes I was presentable. I went to the kitchen to prepare the coffee and asked them how they wanted it. They all answered in the same way, coffee with milk and a lot of sugar, Mm.

When I came back from the kitchen with the coffee, Jimmy smiled at me, and said, “Sandra, these are my boys. This one here is Chris, and this is Philip.”

“Are they your children?” My mouth opened so wide that it was difficult for me to return it to its place. Yes, they seem no older than twenty, but, but... ooh! I was speechless. Jimmy and Sally are very young. “But you and Sally are very young,” I couldn’t say more.

“Ah! Do I take that as a compliment?” Jimmy asked, not sure if it was, but he continued anyway, “It’s that we started early. Sally, at 18, was already pregnant with our first child, Philip. Chris was born a year later, then Janet, and my baby, who is on the way.”

How proud he is talking about his family. That makes me envy them. “Wow! You have a big family, congratulations”

Then it was my turn. “I’m Sandra, nice to meet you.” I extended my hand to each one of them to greet them. “Make yourself at home. I have everything here,” pointing towards the kitchen. “Except for real food, that is, ha, ha, ha,” I laughed like crazy at my joke. It seemed funny only to me.

Well, they just thanked me, and I felt so ashamed of myself, so I pulled up the sleeves of my sweatshirt and asked them, “Where do we start?”

After breakfast, the boys went to work. I stayed inside, picking up and cleaning what we used. Meanwhile, I prepared some sandwiches, and drinks for later. I entertained myself with my psychology classes for a while, and after finishing the topic, I went down to see if they needed anything.

They were very busy cutting wooden planks and taking measurements. I offered them my help, but they shushed me off immediately, like a plague, OK!

Since my help was NOT required, I decided to take a chair out and read a book outdoors. The day was getting gorgeous, and I enjoyed the landscape a lot.

At a certain point, I fell asleep, then I woke up hearing my name.

“Sandra, wake up, the food is ready.” What? That woke me up completely. What food? I have not prepared anything.

I got up from the chair and went in. On the coffee table, were several dishes ready. Jimmy, and Philip, were sitting, while Chris was carrying the drinks from the kitchen. My eyes filled with tears. How happy Sally must be to have a family like this. I could give up my soul for a life like this.

But then, well, Of course, I complained because they hadn’t woken me up.

Chris told me that I was so asleep, that they were sorry to disturb me. And as well, I asked them to feel at home. So they did.

We finished eating, and I stayed to wash the dishes and clean up, while they continued with their work, until five in the afternoon.

Sandra

This routine continued throughout the week. I carried on with my activities as well. A few hours of psychology classes every day. I only left when I had to go to town, to take my shooting classes with Luke.

Then, Jimmy, and the boys, finished the last details of my house. It looked incredible, I couldn't believe my eyes. And to make everything perfect, I just needed to paint and re-decorate the interior.

I will have to buy new furniture, including two new beds. One for the new room, and the other for myself. My mind started to run wild when I was walking around the space that my new garden would occupy when I heard Jimmy calling me.

“I’m in the garden,” I replied. I saw him approach, and I commented, “This place is perfect for the garden I have planned. Thank you very much, Jimmy. I hope this will make that person who left me a long time ago happy.”

But Jimmy surprised me with what he said, “You must worry first about making Yourself happy,” emphasizing the “you” for a better impact.

“Yes, you are right, this garden will be for me. Let me correct my sentences. I hope that person is happy to see me happy.”

“That’s right, that sounds better Sandra, cheer up, never lose sight of what you want to achieve. But I was looking for you to show you how everything looks now, are you coming?”

“Sure,” I followed him with an attitude of satisfaction.

We went up to the room, and that’s where he began to explain. “As you can see, we created a corridor so that you can have access to the second room. The wall that divides them is solid and well-founded. Now, look at this.” He took me to the back of the room, where he showed me the door that gave me access to the bathroom. Jimmy opened it and showed me how my new bathroom looked.

“Wow! At last,” I shouted excitedly, Jimmy smiled with satisfaction.

“As you requested. This bathroom has access from both rooms, with its doors. Now tell me what do you think of the bathtub that I installed? I bet you didn’t expect it. Mm.”

My eyes widened. He never told me about this. “Jimmy, Jimmy, what an incredible surprise. I didn’t think I could fit one here, but you made it happen, thank you.” I grabbed his hand like he was my saint.

We checked the rest, and the other door led to my room. Everything was fine, I was pleased with the results. Going down to the living room, he explained to me that with the increase, I have enough space to accommodate a full small, or medium set of armchairs. It was my choice. My choice.

We continue to the kitchen. What a pity that I do not know how to cook because this place was magnificent.

He renovated the floor, and changed all the old wooden planks for new ones, leaving a polished finish. He installed a range hood with a built-in light that was on top of the stove. Of course, it was a new four-rack electric cooker, not like the old one, which was a small thing.

The breakfast area was built in the same “L” shape, to take better advantage of the space in the corners. I like it a lot, but a lot.

To my surprise, he showed me a door that was not there before, it opens to my new garden.

We went through that door to check the fences. One surrounded the entire property with a height of one metre, perfect to see the exterior and interior of the property in case of having visitors. It was white, and he even made it electric for easy access.

This man thought of everything. And the one that surrounded the garden’s space, was all white like the house facade. The typical picket fence. It had a beautiful door, probably as decoration, since it reached my knee, how divine.

And finally, the security camera. He installed four, two in the front and two in the back. He told me that they were already connected and working directly on my computer, and if I wanted, I could download the application to my phone. Of course, I did that. Everything was finished.

“Thanks, Jimmy, really I thank you, and the boys. You did a fantastic job. I could not have been more satisfied than I am now. The sleepless mornings were worth it, ha!”

Once we reviewed it all, we settled the account, and we said goodbye, with a big hug.

I was alone again. They had just left, and I missed them already.

I went out to the garden and contemplated it for a while. I was imagining how to design it, what kind of flowers to put it, and where. But, I’ll save that task for later.

The next day I decided to go to town to buy new furniture. Despite the extension we made, I knew that I was still limited by space. I decided to buy a small armchair set. It would give me room to move, and without seeing the furniture all piled up.

It was perfect, so I also decided to install a television on the wall.

I received the furniture a week later. Despite the hard time I had getting the furniture store to deliver it here, with a little more money, the matter was solved.

After cleaning the house and arranging the new furniture, I decided to work in my garden. I already had everything. It was just a matter of doing it. I took out all my materials and began to dig. It had been about two hours since I started when I heard someone at the entrance of my fence. I shook off my hands, and ran toward the entry, to see who it could be.

Outside my gate was a very tall burly man, dressed all in black, with a cap turned backwards. The first thing I thought was what the hell was this man doing here? He must be lost. When I was in front of him, I asked in uncertainty, “You lost?”

The man saw me and smiled. Seeing his smile, gave me the creeps as if he had never smiled before, as if the muscles in his face had never been used. It was unnerving.

“Hey! If you have a moment, I did not know that this house had been taken. A friend of mine told me that there was a little house in the middle of the forest. A gentleman named Mr. White was renting it, and I’m a writer. Every so often, I need a lot of peace to get inspired. This could be the perfect place, too bad.”

AAAA! Now I understand. It was good that I arrived first; otherwise, I would continue camping out in the open if he arrived first than me. Shaking the imaginary sweat from my forehead, I replied, “It’s a shame, but this house is not available. And not only that, but I bought the property. So as you can see, friend, you need to look elsewhere.”

The man made a face of disappointment. This caused me remorse, I don’t know why. So, I told him the following, “You have to have driven for many hours to get here, and all for nothing. If you like, you can stop by for a drink. I’m not very busy, what do you think?”

“Miss, you are very kind. I would not want to see myself advantageous,” He said sincerely. “Not at all, I insist. I do not receive visitors every day.”

I went to the door of my new gate and opened it for the stranger. “Well, thank you very much, I hope I don’t cause a disturbance,” He gave me another strange attempt at a smile. Weird things we come across on the road.

When we got to the entrance of the house, I opened the door and motioned for him to come in. The man entered, carefully observing everything. At that moment, I thought the smell of paint bothered him, so I told him, “The smell is still forceful, I have the windows open, but even so, it will take a couple of days to wear off. I hope it doesn’t give you a headache.”

“Oh, none of that. I was admiring how cozy it looked. This would be the perfect place to get away from the problems of the city. You are very lucky to have found it,” Well said.

“I entirely agree with you, Mm!, Sir...”

“John, my name is John.”

Terry

I jumped out of my chair and grabbed the mobile. Stared at it for a second, before I slid my finger, and opened the message. I felt the adrenaline rush through my veins, and all my senses focused on that little box. I opened the message and began to read. “Sandra’s address, Highway 476, Town, 250 kilometres from interstate road 24, lot 45.”

I sat down at my desk, in front of my computer, and opened Google Maps. After entering the address into the search engine, the program began to detect the area. She wanted to distance herself from me, as I can see. It was then that I opened satellite photos of the area, and my heart stopped.

I smashed my fist into the desk, and shouted, “What the hell was that woman thinking?” It is only in a stupid mind that the idea of living in the middle of a desolate area, far from any help, makes sense. “AAAAHHHHHHHHH!” In a fit of rage, I smacked down everything on the desk and dropped the computer I was using to the ground as well. It did not matter to me at the time, since I saw red, and the veins on my neck were visible.

It’s unforgivable. She is mine, my Sandra; how dare she expose herself like that! I sat down on the chair. My eyes were focused on the same point, where the computer was lying on the floor, then, I closed my eyes, and placed my head on the backrest, lost in thought.

I stayed like that for a few minutes. Processing in my mind the pain that my soul will have to bear for the rest of my life. What I was thinking will shatter all my beliefs, and will open doors that I never thought to cross. But for Sandra, I will bare my mind from my manly pride. That will be my punishment for life because I dare to betray her.

When I reopened them, I already knew what I had to do. My mind was splitting in two, and only Sandra has the power to stop this madness. The sickness in my mind, I can feel it growing every day, I need to do something. My other half would take control, and I am afraid that I’m at risk of losing my sanity. I will give control to it. My dark side would not be soft. It would not bend.

Yes, this sickness growing is the best for this job, it will know what to do to subdue her again. “My sweet Sandra.” Did you think you could escape from me that easily? Oh! My innocent Dove. Now you will meet the true person to whom you gave your life, soul, and body.

I left the office and went to find Frank. My two brothers will always have my back, and I will have theirs, but Frank is different from Alex. He has a sick side, just like the one that is taking control of my entire life. But this is deeper and darker. I saw the devastation that Sandra’s abandonment cost him. He loves Sandra in a very deep, different, and disturbing way.

I have always known it. I have observed how his entire being changes when he is in her presence. Her soul calls to his, I know that his emotions will not take long to show themselves. That is why I am sure he would not refuse to help me, no matter the cost.

I opened Frank’s door, not caring whether he would bother, or not. He was at his computer, looking at some photos. Hearing the door, he closed the files that he was looking at immediately, so I wouldn’t see what it was about, but I managed to see something. That confirmed everything that I had to know.

My brother would give his life for my woman. “Frank,” I got his attention. “Who do you think you are, getting into my room like that? OUT!” Indeed, since Sandra left, Frank has not been near me for 1 minute without insulting me. “I know where Sandra is.”

Frank’s body froze for a moment, but a few seconds later, he regained his composure, and said, “and what do you want me to do? You were the one who forced her to leave this house. I warned you, Terry, I told you that she would not take your bullshit, but you did it anyway. You did it all, motherfucker! Now what? Do you want me to beg her on your behalf, and convince her to come back? HA! You’re stupid if you think I’m going to help you. You’re DELUSIONAL. You heard that? DELUSIONAL. Go, I have things to do.”

He returned his sight to the computer and began to type something. I approached him, and very slowly, removed his hand from the mouse, and used it to open the file that he closed when I got in. Frank did nothing to stop me. One by one, I opened the photos he was looking at. They were all Sandra. I leaned against his desk while his eyes were still glued to the screen.

I was analysing this situation, and what words to use, and I decided on the following, “I have known it for a long time, brother. You have never been good at hiding something like that from me. I know what you want, Frank.”

Finally, he looked up and saw me straight in the eyes. Challenging, he told me, “And if you know about that, what?” I smirked in triumph. He finally accepted it.

“This time I'm going to ask for your help, brother. The way I see things, I won’t be able to bring her back by myself. I’m not asking you to convince her to come back to me. I will allow you to help me to make her submit to us.” I’d rather have this arrangement than live without her. Frank’s face turned pale and sweaty. He kept staring at me, with disturbing intensity. His pupils dilated, and the pulse on his temple accelerated. I turned my back on him and left his room.

I went back to the office and texted Marta asking her to come over. She knocked on the door and opened it at the same time.

Upon entering and seeing the mess, she said frightened, “Terry, what happened here, are you okay?” To which I replied, “Nothing to worry about Marta, please send someone to clean this up. I also want to have my food here.”

“It’s okay, Terry, it will be done as you say. But you know I’m here for whatever you need if you just want to talk, or I can offer you some advice. Don’t hesitate, you know? You can count on me for everything.”

Marta turned to leave, then I stopped her. “Marta,” I didn’t know how to tell her what happened, and what I wanted to do. So, I decided to just inform her of my findings. “I already found Sandra, but it will take me time to bring her back.”

Marta slowly turned around with a gigantic smile. “I knew you would, Terry. Remember what I’m going to tell you now. That young woman is invaluable. Don’t hesitate to do the impossible to bring her back. I trust that you will know what to do.” And with that, she turned her back on me and left my office.

Now all I have to do is plan. I have to wait for Frank to assimilate what I talk to him about, and accept what will happen between us. Sandra will be tied to both of us. That is eating me inside, but I have no other choice. Frank is my brother, and I have always felt a different connection with him than Alex. I can’t understand that.

That is why when I thought about all this and came to the conclusion that this is the best for everyone, I did not see it wrong. What bothers me is to think about her with him. Yes, I’m a very jealous guy, but this is a situation getting out of my hands. Sharing the woman I love with Frank, I have to get used to that idea. I have to.

Frank is the protector, the one who seeks the welfare of his loved ones. Sandra could not be in better hands. I am the authority, who decides how to do things, and who is held accountable. I am the one who disciplines and teaches. Between the two of us, we are the best compliment for a woman like her. And she, Mm! She is everything, the most charitable, caring, giving soul that my eyes have ever seen. Always seeking the well-being of others. Making sure that everyone is well, and that we are happy.

With the three of us, we could not have had a better arrangement. I’ll have to wait for Frank to figure this out for himself. Meanwhile, I took on the task of locating the place, and the best route to get there.

According to John, her house is two hours from the nearest town, and that is Cariboo. “How the hell did she end up there?” I wondered. Searching the internet for the best routes, I noticed that the closest airport is one called Cariboo Regional Airport. Fortunately, there is one nearby. To where Sandra is, it would be about 3 hours more driving. It is a rather difficult trip from what I can see.

I need to speak to John, I need more details on what he has researched. I opened the text messages and selected the last one John sent me. Replying to the following: “I need more details, I need you to tell me everything you know.” Five minutes later, I hear a text message notification. I opened the application and selected the one for John’s message.

“Terry, she is living a very peaceful life and a happy one. I recommend that you forget her for her sake. It appears that she has already forgotten you. Listen, she will never leave the house where she is living in.”

No, that’s never going to happen. If that’s true what John says, I’ll make her desire me again, she has no choice. I love her so much that I can’t live apart from her, ever. I listened to another notification, and I saw another message from John. He texted saying, “But since I know you are not a good person, I will send you all the data that I collect to your email.”

I opened my application on my mobile and waited for his email to appear. A few minutes later I saw it in the inbox, and I began to read it. Terry: Sandra bought the property she is living in three weeks ago. She just remodelled it. It seems like it was recent. She has made friends with some people in town. On Wednesdays, twice a month, she goes to shooting classes with somebody named Luke. This manages the weapons store where she receives the classes.

Be careful, they look very comfortable with each other. From miles, you can tell that she is developing a dependence on this man. Her favourite restaurant is Mrs Carmela’s. She visits it after her classes, sometimes with Luke, other times alone.

The other restaurant she visits often is called “Yummy Cake.” She also has contacted by phone with the former owner of the property.

Occasionally, she goes to visit a family that has a carpentry shop. They did the remodelling of the property. The property has security cameras, two in the back, and two in the front. Sandra is building a garden in the backyard. It appears that she is genuinely interested in this garden. She is also taking a psychology class online. This is what takes up her time the most. John.

“Luke, so he’s the one who wants to get between your legs, my love?” I have never lost, and Sandra will not be my first one. She is mine, my most beloved possession, my sweet baby. “Oh! Sandra, if you have slept with him, your days of seeing the light in this life are numbered.”

I will lock her up, and I will never let her out. I will punish her until she has no more voice to continue begging.

“I swear, my love.” My darkness is rising to the surface. This rotten feeling will not allow his favourite prey to be snatched from his clutches. Everything is clear now, my plan must be put in motion. It’s imperative to act now.

I immediately bought a plane ticket to Cariboo town, to leave in a week. Making the reservation, I have to plan this trip perfectly. It will be a two-week trip. I will find all of Sandra’s weaknesses and see how far her new independence and acquired courage go. This will give Frank time to come to terms with this situation.

During the week, I dedicated myself to working twice as hard, so I could get everything in order. Alex complained when I asked for his help again, but of course, he couldn’t refuse. My dad is slowly settling into his new life, and I see him as more confident and active. I asked Alex to get him involved with company affairs so that he can familiarize himself with the procedures again. And from Frank, I haven’t heard from him.

Since that day, we have spoken. He left the Kensington mansion and did not say where or when he would return. I remain confident that he would not reject my proposal. I am a hunter, and as such, I dropped the bait and am just waiting for him to latch on.

Terry

Finally, the day has arrived. Today, I am leaving for Cariboo town. My bags are ready, and the driver is waiting for me at the entrance. Marta came out to say goodbye, wishing me a good trip. My dad already knew what I was going for. He offered me all his support and told me that the best things in life are difficult to acquire. Only those with the will of steel could get what they want. I love my dad. He knows me very well. Arriving at the airport, I went to the VIP Lounge. A waiter offered me something to drink, and I accepted it. I was about to sip my drink when my mobile rang.

“What a surprise,” I said out loud. I slid my finger to receive the call and answered, “Frank, what do I owe your call?” Without wasting a moment, he told me, “I accept.”

I knew it. To achieve this, he must love her madly, just like me. “Okay Frank, wait for my call, I’m on my way to her place. I won’t contact her yet, but I do want to see why she is so amazed at that place. John told me that a certain Luke wanted to eat my cake, that is why I needed to speed up her return” Sometimes you have to drop a little gunpowder to make the explosion more dramatic.

“No! Do not allow it, do what you have to do, but keep him away from her,” Frank said, sounding quite furious, and maniac. It appears that throwing gunpowder was not necessary.

“Okay, keep your mobile on. I’ll keep you up to date on everything.” I ended the call and put my mobile in the inside pocket of my suit. Leaning back on the couch, I comfortably began to enjoy my drink.

The journey took about half an hour. The airport is minimal, and without the technology that you see in other airports, but it has its charm. I collected my baggage and decided to look for a car rental agency. The type of terrain that I will go to will require something safe, like a van, or SUV, which is the best option.

My next stop was Cariboo Village, it’s not far from here, and I want to see the places that Sandra frequents first. I decided to save my appetite for one of the restaurants she loves so much.

Arriving there, my first stop will be “Yummy Cake”. It sounds tempting. Once in the place, I park the car and get inside. This certainly would be a place that would attract Sandra’s attention.

I stood at the entrance, admiring the decoration and the style, when suddenly a girl no older than 18 years practically flew towards me. “Hello,” she said, watching me closely. “I’ll take you to your table. It’s the one with the best view of the place,” she waved her hand indicating I should follow her, which I did.

I settled on a table for four people, it was in the middle part of the premises. You could see who came in and out easily, with access to the kitchen, the drinks bar, and the dessert display.

The girl offered me a menu and began telling me all the good things about this place. She recommends one that I accept. It sounded good anyway. She asked me if I wanted something to drink, and I ordered a beer.

Fifteen minutes later, the waitress returned with my order. She arranged the dishes on the table, and once this was done, she went to the refrigerator for the beer. It smelled excellent, and I was already hungry, so I started eating. Mm! Not bad! I can feel the food melting in my mouth, what a delicious thing.

The waitress returned with the drink and placed it on the table. She asked me if I wanted a glass, to which I said no. After I opened the bottle, she asked me if I needed anything else. Shaking my head as a sign of no, I continued eating.

I have to accept that the food here is wonderful. Marta will do good to learn some tips, and recipes from here. I had finished everything when the waitress returned with a dessert menu. I am not a sweet tooth, so I was going to decline the offer when she mentioned something that caught my attention.

“You know? Months ago, a young lady, who was new around here, came to our restaurant to eat for the first time, and since she tried some desserts on this menu, she has not stopped coming back. Now, she is quite a regular customer. She comes at any opportunity she has when she is in town. Always making excuses to eat here. Do you want to try one?”

“Which ones?” I asked calmly, but inside, I was anxious to hear from Sandra. The waitress pointed her finger at the menu, pointing to the cream bread, the orange pancake with chocolate, and the corn pancake with butter. I smiled helplessly, my baby has a sugar tooth.

My smile did not last long when I noticed that the waitress looked at me in wonder. I ordered all three to go. I no longer had much time for that, I still had things to do. Another five minutes took for the waitress to pack my order. Once I paid the bill, I left.

Terry

It was already past four in the afternoon, so many stores tend to close before five. I checked the address of the weapon shop where Sandra takes her classes, and I went there. It took me less than five minutes to reach the place from the restaurant.

I parked the vehicle and stared at the shop for a while. After checking my surroundings and seeing who enters and who leaves, I decided to get off and pay them a visit. I still don’t know what Luke looks like.

I walked into the store, and I noted that the place was clean and organized. There was only one person. He was a man about 27, or 28 years old, not very far from mine, but closer to Sandra’s.

Tall, you can see that he was in good shape, more likely building his strength daily with heavy work. He does not look like a body moulded in a gym. He must have some other activities than this one.

I kept watching him without him noticing me.

His straight blond hair combed to the side, one side longer than the other, gave him a very youthful appearance. Unlike mine, I give an image of respect and control. Could it be that my baby is attracted to this type of look? Sandra’s eyes have always been on me. I would have noticed the moment they changed direction, and they never did.

Feeling very jealous, and upset, I need to make sure that she does not form loving feelings towards this person; otherwise, I will have to….. Thinking about other things, it was time to meet him.

“Good afternoon,” I made myself known. He stopped what he was doing, and put his attention on me. Wiped his hands with a cloth at hand, he replied, “Good afternoon. We are about to close, but if you tell me what you need, I will look for it in no time.”

Idiot, if he knew who I am, he would be shaking. But instead of saying that, I smiled at him and said the following, “Thanks, it won’t take more than a few minutes. I’m looking for some hearing protectors. My brother and I are here for the hunting season. We decided to start in this area. I went ahead of him to see what equipment this store had.”

“Ah! We have many types of hearing protectors. Which one do you have in mind?”

“You know your business very well,” I replied like this. “I want two pairs of earplugs for high impact, please.”

“Good decision Sir, those are very effective to stop the sound of the weapon. Allow me a minute.” The manager went to the sideboard to remove the plugs and returned with a pair of blue earplugs. Putting them in front of me, he then started showing me the product.

“These are the most efficient we have,” I checked them and nodded my head, agreeing with the good quality. “I will take them.” The manager put my earplugs in a bag and handed them to me. I gave him my credit card to pay. Once I made the payment, I told him, “I want to come with my brother tomorrow. We need to upgrade our equipment before we start hunting. It is not for sure, but very likely. What is your name?” I waited for his reply.

“Of course, I am here every day of the week, and Saturday, except when I am in shooting classes.” He took out a card with his information and offered it to me. I lowered my gaze to read the content and confirmed that it was him, Luke. My hatred towards this man intensified. I said my thanks and left.

As I drove to the hotel, I kept thinking about Luke. I couldn’t get him out of my head. I was considering crushing his skull with my bare hands, it is what I wanted to do. Suddenly and out of nowhere, I decided to turn the steering wheel the other way I was going. Sandra’s house was my destination.

I’m not going to be playing investigator. I’m going to stalk her like the prey that she is. Writing the address of her house in the GPS, I followed the indications. It was around six in the afternoon, and there was still light. As far as I know, the road is approximately two hours driving. I decided to increase my speed anyway, I was too upset to enjoy the scenery. I hurried to get there. Not only that, but I needed to confirm that she was within my reach.

The need to see her was overflowing my senses. This situation is the riskiest I have encountered to date. I cannot lose her, and for that, all my attention and brain need to be in this game.

Her place was getting closer. And I noted that the area was pretty dangerous, that was what I saw straight away. No one would ever find out if something happened to her. Like John did. It was so easy to gain her trust. She is so innocent that she would invite the devil himself to have tea. I will have to be more severe in teaching her not to put herself in danger with strangers.

I was a few metres away from the house when I was surprised by the beauty of the place. My Sandra did a good job. Now I understand when John told me that it would be very difficult for me to get her out of here. I see why, the place is not only pretty, but it gives you a feeling of belonging. When things are better between us, we will come for a few days to rest. But that is still a long way off.

I turned off the lights of the van to avoid detection, then parked it several feet away from the house, hidden from view. I stood there, checking the surroundings, trying to see as much in the dark as possible. It wasn’t much. From where I was, I could see activity inside, the overhead lights were on.

My heart started pounding hard this time, imagining her walking around the house unaware of my presence. I can’t imagine what she was doing right now, reading, watching TV. As I would like to know.

Terry

I had been sitting there for over an hour, and I couldn’t stop thinking about seeing her. But I remembered that John told me that her house had security cameras, so I cannot peep.

I took my binoculars out of my suitcase and started to watch. I wasn’t far when I told Luke I was coming to hunt. Carefully, I looked at the facade of the house, and I saw 2 cameras. Those were the only ones at the front. I also remember that there are two in the back.

A sudden movement caught my attention. I looked through the binoculars at a small window on the top floor. The curtain began to move. I felt my heart going to my trough. Without taking my eyes off the window, I watched as Sandra poked her head out. I felt like she was looking me straight in the eyes. My lungs emptied of air because I thought I had been discovered. But that was impossible, she could not see me in the dark.

I mentally calmed down, and a lazy smile appeared on my face. My baby could feel my presence. That is the kind of connection that will never be broken. That is why nothing she, or I, can do to undo what we have. Something so sacred and strong, that will be impossible to break.

I was so amazed at her beauty, after so many months without seeing her. It was too long for me. Making sure there was nothing outside, Sandra closed her curtains and turned off the lights. That little moment is worth it, bringing me hope for my future.

“I will not rest until I have you in my arms again, my love.”

∞∞∞

The next morning, my body was all sore from having spent the night in the car. I slept only a few hours because I was afraid of losing her in case she left the house. It was still dark when I saw activity again. The light in her room came on, and about ten minutes later, I saw her open the window. I did not get to see much, since it is a tiny one, and there is no room for more. But occasionally, I saw her passing by. The light went out, and a few seconds later, the one on the ground floor came on. Sandra opened the curtains wide. This one was bigger. I could see her silhouette from here, so I took the binoculars that were at hand to get a better view of my baby. I saw her retreating into the house, probably the kitchen. The house was small, too small.

Ten minutes later, she returned to the living room with a plate, and a cup in her hands. She sat down and began to watch TV. So, I spent the day observing and taking note of everything I could.

Sandra did not leave the house that day, but I saw her leave and go to the back of the place. I could not follow her due to the security cameras. For nothing in the world, I want to compromise my position.

∞∞∞

This continued for the next three days. At that time, I needed a bath and a decent meal. Driving back to the hotel overnight, and going to her home very early, was exhausting me.

The fifth day was different. She left the house early in the direction of the town. I already knew where she was going, so I gave her a lot of distance to get there first. I did everything she did, and I went everywhere she went. Not only that, but I saw how she interacted with everyone. Until the moment when Sandra walked to the weapons store carrying a suitcase on her shoulder. That’s when my blood started to boil. Jealousy was consuming me, “how dare you, Sandra?”

I approached the store window with precaution. There she was, talking calmly to that son of a bitch. And he was enjoying every second of it. They kept talking for a few more minutes, until the two left the store, and went to the back. I circled the premises to avoid being seen and hid in a corner out of sight.

Sandra was putting on her gear, and Luke was doing something to the rifle, probably checking it. The class started, and Sandra began shooting, and I was quite surprised. I never expected to see her holding a gun. This will have to stop soon because something could happen and injure her.

The class continued for two hours. I was very upset, my mood was deteriorating fast, and I wanted to do something that I was sure I would regret. Not only that, but I could feel my hatred piercing my insides, demanding to act.

At some point, physically, I couldn’t take it any more, I felt sick to my stomach seeing them together. The two of them smiled at each other as if they were the only ones in the world. I misjudged the love she had for me. It was not infallible, I should have been more careful with her.

Now I understand what she went through. But it has been worse for her. Because I did not see her leaving someone else’s room adjusting her clothes, or see her sitting on another man's lap, or hear her saying “I do in front of a priest”.

Frank’s words now make sense, not so much before. I regret not having taken him seriously. My pride blinded me, and the hunger for power, and the desperation to free my father from prison, sealed my destiny forever.

I did everything for my dad, to be honest. But deep down, I recognize that I wanted more power, I wanted to be invincible. “Look what it cost me, stupid.” So, I went back to the hotel, and stayed there, recovering. I had to get better physically, and emotionally. I felt defeated and sick. Furthermore, I need to fight and be strong.

The next day, my body was better, and my mind was more in control. I was fine now. Fortunately, my dominant side did not let me down. This moment of weakness was just that, a moment. I will continue with what I planned, and I promised that it would not matter how difficult or painful it would be to have her back, and I will, whether the pain is for her or me.

I left the hotel in the direction of Sandra’s house, with only one more week left. I parked the van in the same place as always, leaned my head back on the seat, and waited patiently for her to appear.

About three hours later, I saw Sandra leaving her house. I thought she would go to her garden as usual, but this time, she went to the exit. This meant that she was going to take a walk through the forest. It is the third time she has done it while I have been here.

When she was a few metres ahead of me, I got out of the car and started to follow her. We were walking for forty minutes, when she stopped on a rock, approached the shore, and looked down. My heart is pounding against my ribcage. I was about to get her and pull her out of there when she turned around and carried on walking.

Things like that are what I cannot tolerate. Seeing her in danger makes me outraged, and scared to the point of pissing my trousers. The good thing is that I am taking note of all her transgressions. There will be a day when she regrets everything she has done.

After a while of walking, she decided to return to the house. It was already starting to get dark, so I sighed in relief. No matter how quiet this area is, there will always be a danger.

I was thinking this when I stepped on a small branch that made a bit of noise. Although it was at a healthy distance, I wanted to avoid taking the risk, so I hid behind a tree. Sandra heard the noise and she stopped immediately. I saw her slowly turn her head to see what made the noise, but of course, she found nothing and went on her way.

After Sandra entered her house, I got into my van to continue with the stalking. Then, a few minutes later, I saw movements. The light in front of the house turned on, and Sandra came out holding a rifle in her hands and pointed it in my direction.

“BAM,” I heard the shot very close. I couldn’t move, still in shock at what had happened. I heard another shot even closer to where I was. I flew out of the van, squatting down, to cover myself from the bullets behind it. My brain did not want to work or understand what was happening.

Sandra was the one shooting at me. Sweating was dripping from the nerves on my face. I did not know what to do at that moment. So, I stayed there, hiding, waiting. Sandra hates me presently, but I doubt very much that she will shoot me.

This way, I regained confidence, and I got up from the place where I was handing to face her. Sandra was in front of me, pointing her gun at my head.

Her face was blank, empty of emotion. My eyes locked with hers. At that moment, I noticed the first emotion in her, after my wedding, and the last time I spoke to her. Hate, just hate.

I was scared, and a lot, but not because of the gun that was pointed at my face, but because of the desolate look she had on her face. I couldn’t believe this woman was Sandra. It can’t be true. My face was filled with horror when I thought that this was it.

My shock was so great that Sandra slightly lowered the gun to see me better. Even without recovering from the shock, I heard her speak, “What are you doing here? I hope it has nothing to do with me because as you already know, we are in the past. And also, I hope you get out right now from my land before I decide that your pathetic life is worth nothing.”

I did this, I did this to her. Oh! Sandra, I’m so sorry, I cracked your soul.

This story will continue in the next book: “Wasn't my love enough? I will do anything for love”

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