Charlotte Jacobs

😭💔💔💔I have the best mother-in-law in the world, yet I couldn’t win my husband’s love. I once naively believed our daughter’s arrival might change his heart. Then, at her birthday party, I saw him and another woman holding our daughter’s hands — standing together like a perfect family portrait. After seven years of marriage, I had lost completely — not only his love, but even my daughter’s gaze no longer belonged to me. In that moment, my heart shattered like glass. So I quietly resigned from my job, mailed the divorce papers, and completely left their world. This time, I made a clean break — without a single glance back. ================================ Chapter 1:The Family Of Three Soraya Montclair lasted 120 days without a word from her husband. She thought she’d already survived the worst. Until tonight. Under the stage lights,her daughter walked out—hand in hand with his mistress. “Mommy,”she called sweetly… but not to her. The audience applauded. Her husband stood beside them,like it was always meant to be this way. And Soraya? Just a stranger in the crowd. The first piano note rang out. And something inside her finally broke. *** ~Soraya~ “Excuse me,where’s the auditorium?”Soraya asked the school’s security guard. “That way,”the guard pointed.“Are you attending the recital?” “Yes,my daughter is playing the piano today,”she happily shared.“She doesn’t know I’m coming.I’m surprising her.” “Well,better hurry,ma’am.It’s about to start.Good luck to your daughter!”the guard answered. “Thank you!”Soraya clutched the small gift bag tighter and dashed off,her heels tapping across the marble floor. Soraya missed her daughter so much. Her little girl,Sage,bright and beautiful,was her world.Soraya swore she would hug and kiss her the moment she saw her. She wanted to look her best for Sage,wearing her favorite dress and the perfume her daughter once said smelled like“home.”Because lately,“home”had been slipping away. Why?Because someone had been trying to steal her daughter’s affection,and that worried her the most. Her husband,Calum Montclair,had sent her on a business trip for four months.While she was gone,she rarely had contact with Sage.Worse,she felt as though her daughter had been avoiding her. Soraya’s trip wasn’t due to end until next week,but she worked long hours to finish early. The auditorium was packed when she arrived.There were no seats left.She stood at the back,craning her neck,clutching her gift and her phone. Soraya texted her husband,letting him know that she was already there: [I can’t find you and Sage.Where are you?I just arrived at the auditorium.I made it to Sage’s recital!] There was no answer,not that she expected any. The truth was,her husband never loved her.She had come to terms with that. The only person who kept her holding on to her marriage was Sage. It didn’t matter,though.She was used to her husband’s indifference.She just wanted to see her daughter. The recital began.The auditorium came to life as kids from Evermoor Academy began their performances. Phones were up,taking photos and videos.Around Soraya,people clapped enthusiastically.Some parents even joined their children’s performances. “Sage,where are you?”Soraya looked around,but still,she couldn’t find her daughter. She managed to move past the crowd.And finally,when she reached the center of the auditorium,she noticed her husband’s tall frame.He was seated in the front row,looking as handsome as ever. But when Soraya saw who was sitting beside him,she froze. Her face turned pale,and her hands trembled.Before she could process anything,the host’s voice echoed through the speakers. “And next to perform is Sage Montclair!She will be playing a classical piece on the piano with her mom!” The words rang in Soraya’s head. ‘Sage is performing with me?’she thought,confused.She and her daughter hadn’t practiced at all.She had been gone for four months.Although,Soraya had been the one who taught her daughter how to play. But when her daughter stepped onto the stage,everything became clear. She was not the“Mom”they were referring to. They were referring to someone else. Walking onto the stage beside her daughter was Rose Becket,her husband’s mistress. Yes,Soraya was married,but her husband loved another. The next few minutes felt like torture.Soraya could only watch as her beloved daughter played the piano beside Rose,each note striking deeper than the last. As they played,Sage glanced up at Rose with a smile so pure it shattered Soraya’s heart.Their fingers moved in perfect harmony.It was an unspoken bond on full display. ‘So this was why Sage had been secretive about the recital,’Soraya realized bitterly. Her daughter,the child she carried for ten months,the little girl she raised and loved for six years,had chosen another woman to share her music,her joy,her heart. Of course,it made her angry.This was Calum’s mistress,after all! How could Calum let Rose play with Sage?And Sage already knew Soraya detested Rose! By the time Sage’s recital ended,Soraya was burning with rage.She barely heard the host call Calum to the stage. “Let us also welcome Sage’s dad up to the stage,our principal sponsor for today’s event,Mr.Calum Montclair!” Soraya watched her husband’s proud expression.Calum wore a custom-made suit,his tall frame and chiseled features ever so defined.He stood beside Sage and held her hand.Then he smiled at Rose. That smile was priceless,gentle,and full of adoration. ‘So he does know how to smile,’Soraya muttered.Because in front of her,he only ever wore indifference. “Wow,such a lovely couple.” “And they have a beautiful child as well.” Soraya overheard the praises,and instantly,a tear slid down her cheek;her throat felt paper-dry. ‘Indeed,’she thought.‘They look like the perfect family of three.’ Calum Montclair,the CEO of the Montclair Group,was every woman’s desire.He was the wealthiest man in Cedar Heights,having transformed their family business into a thriving empire.Rose Becket,on the other hand,was said to be a gifted entrepreneur,having launched a fashion line immediately after her doctoral degree. In the eyes of many,they were a perfect couple,but no one knew that Rose was merely…the other woman. Just when Soraya thought she had seen enough,the host encouraged Sage to say a few words.And her little girl proudly said,“I would like to thank my Mommy Rose for coming to school today and playing with me!She is so pretty,smart,and talented!And I’m so happy Daddy came to my recital.It’s his first time!” The crowd laughed at Sage’s excitement,whereas Rose smacked Calum’s arm,teasing him. Everyone in the auditorium was amused…except Soraya. Her heart shattered into a million pieces. She mused silently,‘If they were the perfect family of three…then where do I belong?’ *** The recital was over. The crowd began to disperse. But Soraya stood still for a moment,her heart refusing to move on. Then she saw them. Calum.Rose.And Sage.Her Sage.They were together like a picture-perfect family. Despite the growing ache in her chest,Soraya forced her trembling legs to move.As she approached,Sage’s teacher,Miss Gale,noticed her and froze. “Mrs.Montclair…”the teacher murmured.Her expression was a mix of sympathy and shock. “I’m sorry,Mrs.Montclair.”If anyone,Miss Gale had witnessed all of Soraya’s sacrifices for Sage in school.She knew,Soraya was the rightful Mrs.Montclair.When Sage got hurt or sick while in school,Soraya always came to her daughter’s aid.Soraya attended most school activities without Calum. Soraya averted her gaze. “It’s fine,”she whispered to Miss Gale,though nothing about it was. When Calum’s eyes met hers,his expression hardened.Deep lines etched across his face as his brows furrowed.Without a word,he reached for Sage’s hand and guided Rose away,right past her. Like she was invisible. “Sage!Sage,wait!”Soraya called,running a few steps after them. Her daughter turned.For one hopeful second,Soraya thought Sage would run to her.But instead,Sage’s eyes darted toward Rose,and she looked away. Then,as if in slow motion,Sage reached for Rose’s hand instead. Soraya’s chest tightened. She could barely breathe as she followed them out of the auditorium,ignoring the stares that followed. By the time she caught up,they were already at the parking lot. Sage and Rose were seated in the car.Only Calum stood outside,his posture cold and guarded. “Why are you back?”he demanded.His jaw clenched,hands buried in his pockets like he was trying to restrain himself. “I wanted to make it to my daughter’s birthday,”Soraya said,forcing a smile.“Can’t I—” “You’re not invited,”Calum snapped. Chapter 2:Replaced ~Soraya~ ‘Not invented?’The words hit like a slap. Sage’s birthday was two days away.That was Soraya’s other reason for returning early. “What?”Soraya blinked,her voice trembling.“What do you mean I’m not invited?I’m Sage’s mother.” “We’ve already made arrangements,”he said flatly.“I’m introducing Rose to new friends.So no,you’re not coming.” Her voice broke as she shot back,“You don’t get to decide that,Calum!She’s my daughter too!” Calum’s lips curled cruelly.“Then go ahead.Ask Sage.” He motioned to the car.The window rolled down with a soft hum. Sage’s small face appeared,so familiar,yet so painfully distant. “Sage,sweetheart,”Soraya said softly,trying to steady her voice.“Aren’t we going to celebrate your birthday like we always do?At home?Mommy’s back.I can bake your favorite cake.” Her daughter fidgeted,glancing toward Rose and Calum. “Sage,please,”Soraya whispered,her chest tightening.“Don’t you miss Mommy?” She hoped again.In her mind,she prayed to the heavens. Calum’s voice cut through the air.“Go ahead,Sage.Tell her.” Sage swallowed hard.Then,with her little voice trembling,she said,“I’m sorry,Mommy.You’re not invited to my birthday.Daddy and Aunt Rose already made plans.” For a second,Soraya forgot how to breathe. “Sage…you don’t mean that,”she said,tears spilling freely now.“I’m your Mommy.I love you more than anyone.” “Sage,don’t you love Mommy anymore?”Soraya tried again. Sage opened her mouth,but she closed it again.Then,after looking at Rose,she turned to Soraya.“I want to celebrate my birthday with Aunt Rose.” Soraya’s heart sank altogether. Because Sage’s choice was clear. Her daughter preferred Rose over her. “I’m sorry,Soraya,”Rose said smoothly,placing a hand on Sage’s shoulder.“But it’s her birthday.Whatever she wishes for,she gets.” Then,with a smug smile,Rose added,“And she wants to spend her birthday with me.” “We are not coming home.”Calum didn’t even look back.He opened the driver’s door,got in. “Calum,”she called.“Calum,wait!I’m not done talking to Sage!” But despite her plea,the car drove past her. “Wait!”Soraya ran.Tears,yet again,spilling down her face. Because she tried so hard to chase after Calum,she ended up falling on the ground and spraining her ankle! “Mrs.Montclair!”Miss Gale noticed her and offered help.“Let me take you to the hospital.” Soraya looked up and caught a view of her daughter’s face looking out the window,just as Calum’s car left the parking lot. Sage saw. Calum surely saw,but neither of them bothered to stop the car and check on her. *** “Soraya!Oh,my goodness!How are you?”Lyra Hayes,Soraya’s long-time college friend,came to the hospital to help her. Sage’s teacher could only manage to take her to the hospital,but she had other things to do.So,Soraya called her friend over. Soraya was in the ER,getting her ankle wrapped.When the nurse was done,she shared with her friend.“I tried to chase after Calum’s car.” It had been a long time since Soraya and Lyra connected.Her friend had been away for a while,working in another city.But thankfully,that day,Soraya’s call made it through,and Lyra was available. She told Lyra everything that happened earlier that day. “Oh,my god,Soraya.This has gone too far,”Lyra said.“Even Sage?” Soraya did not answer first.She grabbed her phone and sent her daughter a message:[Sage,I really miss you.Where are you and your daddy?] She waited,and two check marks appeared on the messaging app,but Sage did not reply. Soraya:[Don’t you want to see me on your birthday?] Still,there was no reply. “Lyra,I’m tired,”she said,tears gathering in her eyes. Her friend nodded.She offered Soraya a hug and said,“I can imagine.Seven years into this marriage,and this is what you get in return.” She cried hard. Her friend cried with her. Because of the pain she felt,Soraya started counting numbers in her head.It was one of the ways she tried to take control of her emotions.‘Four.Three.Two.One.’ Lyra was one of those who had witnessed all her sacrifices for Calum and Sage.So her friend knew just how deep her pain was. “I’m really tired,”Soraya repeated.”If Sage doesn’t want me anymore,then what’s the point of staying?” Lyra nodded. “It’s time,Soraya,”Lyra said,pulling away. “Can you help me get a lawyer?I want to draft a divorce agreement,”Soraya said. *** Soraya had discovered her husband’s affair with Rose more than six months ago.How long had it been going on?She never found out. Only a handful of people knew Calum was married—his parents and a few trusted friends.So when he began showing up at public events with Rose,no one questioned it.No one knew he already had a wife waiting at home. The Montclairs objected,of course.Calum’s parents,Amanda and Cedric,adored Soraya.They tried everything to make their son love her.They even encouraged her to work at the Montclair Group.So that she could stand by his side and earn his approval one small step at a time. She gave up her career for him.Her ambitions.All for a love that never came.Instead,the more she tried,the colder he became. By the time Soraya learned about Rose,it was already too late.Calum had introduced Sage to her long before. Sage was too young to understand.She was just a child.She was innocent,curious,and easily won over by kindness. “Aunt Rose is really pretty,Mommy.She dresses really nice.She buys me gifts all the time.She’s Daddy’s friend,”her daughter once said,smiling. Back then,Soraya hadn’t thought much of it.But when whispers reached her ears,the rumors about Calum and a beautiful entrepreneur named Rose Becket,something inside her twisted. The name rang a bell. And then everything made sense. She confronted Calum,trembling,angry,humiliated. He didn’t even look up from his work. “Mind your own business,”he said. That was how insignificant she was to him. It hurt. It hurt over and over again. Following that confrontation,Calum sent her away on a business trip. “Only you can close this deal,”he said. For the first time,Soraya believed he trusted her with something important.In those four months,she worked day and night,desperate to make him proud. But it was all a lie. Apparently,Calum had planned it from the start.He wanted her gone.He wanted Sage and Rose to have time together,to build a bond in her absence. Now that she was back,she realized what he had truly accomplished. He hadn’t just betrayed her. He had replaced her in Sage’s heart. Chapter 3:Choose Herself ~Rose~ In a high-end luxury penthouse,Rose was reading Sage a bedtime story.As she did,the young girl looked around the room,her eyes wide with wonder. Rose was pleased.After all,she had prepared the room for Sage. The bed was big and fluffy,with light curtains hanging from the window.On the walls were posters of Sage’s favorite girl band.Her favorite books were stacked neatly on the table beside the bed. Rose had gone all out,as if for someone she deeply cared about. Why?Because Sage cared.That’s what made her so easy to spoil…so easy to win. Rose had watched her quietly over the past few months,noticing how Sage lit up with attention and gifts,and how she softened with kindness.And as Soraya started slipping from Sage’s thoughts,Rose didn’t have to say much. A small comment here,a quiet smile there…It was enough. Sometimes,love wasn’t stolen.It was gently replaced. And Rose knew how to do that—especially with a child who still believed the world was kind. “The end,”Aunt Rose said after closing the book. “Aunt Rose,this house you’re staying in looks very new and expensive too,”Sage said. “Your dad bought it for me.That’s how much he cares about me,”Rose replied. “Why doesn’t Daddy care for Mommy?”Sage asked.“If only he would care for her and show up at home to celebrate my birthday.” Rose shrugged and said,“To care for someone,you can’t force it.” She didn’t know if Sage would understand,but she hoped the little girl would.After all,Calum never cared for Soraya.They were married,but there was never a real relationship between them. At best,Soraya was a mere surrogate. “But Mommy loves me,”Sage said,looking conflicted. “Oh,my poor baby.”Rose offered an embrace and hugged her.“I know your mom loves you.But sometimes,love isn’t enough to keep a family together.” “Are you sure about tomorrow?Aunt Rose and your daddy can always step away for your mommy,”Rose suggested. Sage shook her head.“No,I want to be with you and Daddy on my birthday.” A triumphant smile spread across Rose’s face.She had been patient,but she knew it wouldn’t be long now.Surely,with everything going on,Soraya would break. After putting Sage to sleep,Rose smiled.She walked back to the study,where Calum had been working on his laptop. Earlier’s encounter with Soraya was unexpected.She wasn’t supposed to be back until next week. Honestly?Rose was worried Soraya would spoil the birthday party she had planned for Sage,but to her surprise,Calum’s daughter didn’t want her mother there! It was perfect.Her plan was moving forward,faster than she expected. “Sage is asleep,”Rose said to Calum. “Good,”Calum simply said,his fingers still working on the keyboard. “I think I’ve totally won her over,”Rose claimed,walking toward him and sitting on his lap.“You didn’t think I’d be able to do it,did you?” Calum stopped whatever he was doing and wrapped his arms around her.“Hmm.You did well.” Rose kissed Calum,and within minutes,sensual moans filled the air. She rejoiced inside.There was no sweeter victory than having the wealthiest man in the city wrapped around her finger. *** ~Soraya~ “Hi?What’s your name?”the fourteen-year-old Soraya greeted with a smile.She was attending Cedric Montclair’s birthday party.Upon seeing Calum,she immediately approached. Of course,Soraya already knew who he was.The Montclair and Azar families had lived across from each other for years. “Calum,”the young Montclair heir said.He shook his head like he already knew there was no need for introductions. “Can we be friends,Calum?”she asked. He just shrugged,and Soraya took it as an approval. There was a time when Soraya and Calum got along just fine.Their families were close,and being neighbors,Soraya saw his achievements and grew to admire Calum. Yes,Calum was a handsome man.He was tall and athletic,with brown hair and sharp blue eyes.But Soraya didn’t fall for just his looks.She loved the quiet strength he carried.He didn’t talk much,but when he did,people listened.He took over the family business at a young age,and even then,he acted with the seriousness of someone much older. Yet life had a way of turning everything upside down. One crucial night changed everything,forcing them into marriage. That was when Calum started hating Soraya.He firmly believed she had orchestrated the events leading up to her pregnancy. Soraya had hoped she could win Calum’s heart.After all,she was young,bright,and attractive.She had an angelic beauty,with long,brown hair that cascaded down her back and skin as fair as ivory.She did not have to wear heavy makeup or provocative clothes to stand out.Aside from her natural qualities,Calum’s parents adored her. However,throughout their marriage,Calum treated her with disdain.He ignored her,and the worst part was how he allowed his friends to look down on her.And now,he flaunted a mistress without even batting an eye. There was no other way to go around it.Soraya needed to choose herself,or else she would be the useless person Calum’s friends had labeled her to be. Soraya had been home this past few days,packing her things.One would think that,despite her absence,her husband would call or be concerned—but no.He never called or texted. Calum didn’t care. They did not celebrate their anniversary.Calum never came to her birthday celebrations,and unless the party was held at the Montclair mansion,Soraya was never invited to his birthday party. Neither had Sage replied to any of her messages,maybe too afraid she would ruin her birthday celebration. Soraya had already called her uncle.She was moving in with them in Beldridge,the next town.Her uncle had relocated a few years back.Only she remained to be with Sage. Just before leaving,she left the signed divorce papers with the maid.She told her,“Please give this to Calum.These are divorce papers that I have signed.Tell him I sent him a message.He hasn’t read it yet.” Belinda,the maid,who had long served them as Sage’s nanny,gulped.She said,“Are you sure,Mrs.Montclair?” “Look at me,Belinda.It’s my daughter’s birthday,but she didn’t even invite me,”Soraya forced a smile and said.“It’s for the best.” She hugged Belinda and said,“Thank you,Belinda,for everything.I now leave my daughter’s care in your hands.” “Mrs.Montclair,”Belinda wept.“I know where Sage’s birthday is being held.I wasn’t supposed to tell you.It’s at the Butter&Crumb Cafe.” Soraya nodded.“Thanks for telling me.I guess I could drop by and just look.I promise I won’t tell.” Her mother’s heart still couldn’t leave it alone.At least,she wanted to wish her daughter a happy birthday from a distance.So,she made her way to the Butter&Crumb Cafe. Soraya thought she was prepared for what she would see,but she was wrong.She was very wrong. *** “Happy Birthday,happy birthday,happy birthday,dear Sage.Happy birthday to you!” Soraya watched in secret behind a door as the scene unfolded. Balloons floated lazily in the breeze.Laughter danced like music across the cafe’s garden area. And in the center of it all was Sage,in someone else’s arms. Rose was carrying Sage while Calum clapped his hands.The crowd cheered as the trio blew out the candle on the giant fondant birthday cake. Sage did not even like fondant cake,but she looked happy. Around them were Calum’s social circle,his wealthy friends,and two of his cousins. “Sage,are you happy to celebrate your birthday with Rose?”Claire,Calum’s cousin,asked Sage. “Yes,of course!I love being with Aunt Rose!”Sage said,wrapping her arms around Rose with a beaming smile.“Even my classmates like Aunt Rose.” “We are happy for you,Sage!”someone said. “We are happy for all of you!”Calum’s cousin raised a glass,referring to Sage,Rose,and Calum. From where Soraya stood,she overheard everything. Soraya,yet again,questioned her life choices and the sacrifices she had made for her family.‘Was it worth it?’ Right now,it did not feel like it. What further added to Soraya’s resentment was how Rose was warmly welcomed by Calum’s friends. Never had Calum brought Soraya to any of his friends’gatherings.However,it was so much easier to flaunt Rose in front of them. Soraya felt the ache again,so much that she rested her hand on her chest.After witnessing enough emotional torture,she turned on her heels,but as she did,she bumped into a tall,overbearing man on the street. “What are you doing here?Don’t cause any trouble.It’s Sage’s birthday!”he warned.This man was Jacob Steel,one of Calum’s friends,a high-profile businessman in Belridge,the neighboring town.Like Calum,Jacob had that icy charisma and the unmistakable air of affluence. Hearing Jacob’s remark,Soraya retorted,“Cause trouble?Me?Why would you think that,Mr.Steel?I willingly agreed not to be invited to my own daughter’s birthday.As a mother,I just wanted to see her.Is it a crime?” She could tell Jacob was stunned by Soraya’s reply. “I know.I know.You think I’m the evil one here?But,do you really think I wanted this?”Soraya snapped.She couldn’t help it.All of Calum’s friends had judged her the moment she got pregnant with Sage.“I’m still twenty-six.I got married at nineteen and threw away my life and career for Calum and Sage!” “You all judged me,but you never really tried finding out the truth.”Soraya’s jaws clenched.“Fine,though.Let me be the bad person!It doesn’t matter.I don’t care anymore.” She turned her back on Jacob and marched toward her car.In the car,she called her Uncle Philip.“Uncle.I’m leaving for Beldrige.See you in two hours or less.” “And…Soraya,what about Sage?”her uncle asked. Soraya thought about it and said,“Sage…she—she doesn’t need me anymore.” Chapter 4:Resigned ~Soraya~ On a Monday,Soraya drove back to Cedar Heights early in the morning.It was an hour-and-a-half drive. She was already four blocks away when she noticed Calum’s car! Yet again,she sensed her heart racing.She had to pull over and calm her emotions.With her eyes closed,she muttered,“Twenty,nineteen,eighteen,seventeen…one.” As her eyes slowly opened,she spotted Calum’s vehicle parked two cars down.Moments later,Calum stepped out and opened the passenger door,letting Rose Becket exit with a bright smile. Soraya looked away,realizing that Calum and Rose were together as early as seven.It could only mean they had slept together.Worse,maybe he had brought Rose to their marital home. Her chest tightened again,so much that counting numbers no longer worked. Soraya hugged herself and muttered her newfound mantra,“Control,Soraya,control.Feelings pass.Feelings pass.Control.” It took a while,but when Soraya had finally regained her composure,she realized Calum had brought Rose to her boutique. Soraya didn’t know Calum had a romantic side.She supposed he never really cared for her at all. A bitter smile tugged at Soraya’s lips.She let the truth sink in deeper,letting her anger sharpen her resolve.This low point was only temporary;her comeback was already coming. After Calum left Rose’s shop,Soraya waited five minutes before driving to Aegis Core Systems. Aegis Core Systems was a top-tier cybersecurity firm known for its enterprise-grade protection.It had built a multi-million-dollar empire by supplying advanced security solutions to major corporations. Its most profitable system was the NeuroSentinel. Soraya parked her car and went straight to the upper ground floor.Approaching the front desk,Soraya said,“Excuse me.My name is Soraya Azar.I want to claim my profit share for the past four years.” “Do you have a licensing profit share,Miss?”the front desk asked with a smile. “Yes,”Soraya replied. The lady called the person in charge,and after confirming that Soraya was,in fact,a developer of one of their programs,she gave her an ID pass. Soraya easily found her way to the finance department.The person in charge gave her a big smile.He looked tense as he offered his hand,“Miss Azar,it’s such an honor to meet you!And my,you are so young and beautiful!” “I’m sorry.I never expected you to be this young,but then again,most geniuses are young.”The man motioned to a seat and said,“Please,have some coffee or tea.” “Thank you for the compliment.”Soraya’s heart was still like a block of ice,but she forced a smile.“Water is fine.Is the check ready?I called last Thursday to make the withdrawal.” “Yes,it’s ready.I prepared the check.I was very excited to meet you,”the man said.“My name is Albert Smith.I am the accounts payable manager.I started working here two years ago and heard so much about you from Mr.Ward.” Soraya could not help but smile at the mention of her old friend,Silas Ward.Her heart softened a little.She asked,“I’d really like to see Silas.Is he here at the moment?” “Mr.Ward is on a business trip.He has been a busy man,following our expansion to the capital.After all,he is now the big boss,”Albert remarked,chuckling. “The big boss?”Soraya asked,bemused. “You don’t know?”Albert asked.“Mr.Ward is now the CEO of Aegis Core Systems.He had his appointment last month.After your collaborative effort with Mr.Ward,he quickly rose from a Tech Engineer to a project manager,VP,and now,the boss.” “I believe he used his profit share to buy company shares of Aegis Core Systems,”Albert reported. Soraya’s mouth fell open in disbelief. Her dear old friend had made it big! And then it hit her like a slap:if she hadn’t abandoned her career at Aegis Core Systems,she could have been standing beside Silas by now. Yes,this was her first workplace after completing her Computer Engineering degree at Cedar Heights Institute of Technology. Soraya had a unique way of learning and processing numbers.She was so good at it that she managed to skip grade levels and finished college when she was eighteen.After graduation,her internship company,Aegis Core Systems,immediately offered her a job,and she began working under the mentorship of Silas Ward. Because of her busy schedule,taking care of Sage while working hard for Calum,Soraya had not been in touch with Silas.She wasn’t the type to have a social media account either.In the middle of everything,Soraya had lost her old phone,leaving her with no way to contact Silas. “I am happy for Silas,”Soraya said.Then,she wrote her number on a piece of paper,handing it to Albert.“Do you mind telling him that I came to see him?Here’s my number.I changed contact information three years ago.” “Certainly,Miss Azar.When he returns,I shall give him your number.”Albert put her contact information inside his drawer.Then,he said,“Excuse me for a moment.I just need to get the acknowledgement paper for your check.” Albert came back with the document,which Soraya quickly signed.Then,Albert passed her the check,shocking Soraya to the core.“I earned six million dollars in four years?” That was ten times more than what she had expected.It was primarily the reason why she took so long to withdraw her profit share.Soraya was saving it for rainy days. Then,the gut punch. “Miss Azar,”Albert said.“You would have earned ten times more if you hadn’t given up your exclusive rights as the co-developer of NeuroSentinel.” *** ~Calum~ Meanwhile,back at the Montclair Group,Calum,Soraya’s soon-to-be ex-husband,was reviewing documents on his desk when his assistant walked in.He called his assistant and asked,“Is Soraya back?Tell her to stop her theatrics and work on the East Project.” Greg Foster,Calum’s assistant,gulped.In the office,only he knew Soraya was his wife.“Sir,your wife called me last week and said she was resigning effective immediately.Miss Azar said,she informed you.” Calum stilled. His eyes landed on the brown envelope Belinda gave him before leaving the house that day.He still hadn’t opened it yet,and he still hadn’t read Soraya’s messages. Calum thought Soraya was still throwing a tantrum,but when he read her text,his brows knitted. He…couldn’t believe it. Chapter 5:Divorce ~Calum~ Calum’s striking features tightened subtly.His brows pulled together,creating a slight furrow between his usually composed eyes.He was a man who never second-guessed himself,but at that moment,he hesitated. Slowly,he read Soraya’s text. [Calum, Let’s end this,once and for all. First,I am formally resigning.Please allow me to leave the company immediately and without complication.I’ve dedicated the past four years to serving you,often without pause.There is no longer any reason for me to remain.I’m sure you’d prefer my absence. Second,the matter of our divorce.I am not seeking anything from you.I only want my freedom.This will also allow you the freedom to be with Rose openly and without restraint.I have not informed your parents of my decision.I trust you will handle that appropriately. Third,about Sage.I won’t fight for custody.Please tell her that I love her deeply and always will.I won’t be seeing her for now.I need time to remove myself from everything.In truth,I believe she would rather stay with Rose than with me. Lastly,there’s no need for further contact between us.Below is the contact information for my lawyer.Please have your legal team coordinate directly with them to finalize the divorce proceedings. I trust you will see this through swiftly. –Soraya] Inside the brown envelope Belinda had given him,Calum pulled out a divorce agreement.He confirmed that Soraya had,in fact,asked for nothing.He sucked in a deep breath and leaned back in his seat. Just as he stared at the last page,where Soraya’s signature had been affixed,someone knocked on his office door.One of his good friends walked in—Melvin Carter. “Calum,I really need to talk to you about my investments,”Melvin said before finding his seat. Like Calum,Melvin was a businessman.His family owned several gas stations in Cedar Heights and Belridge. Seeing Calum seriously holding on to a set of documents,Melvin asked,“What’s that you are reading?” “Soraya asked for a divorce,”Calum revealed. “Pfft!”Melvin leaned back,laughing.“What a joke.We all know she would never divorce you.She’s banking on the fact that she has the support of your parents!” “She was the one who drafted this divorce letter,”Calum revealed.“She…even tendered an immediate resignation.” Melvin grabbed the divorce agreement and noted,“She doesn’t want anything?”He shook his head,saying,“I don’t believe it.Trust me,Calum.She is just doing this to get your attention.Give it a few days,and you’ll see,she’ll come running back here.” “She hasn’t been home for a week,”Calum pointed out. “After she found out she wasn’t invited to Sage’s birthday?”Melvin asked.He hissed and added,“I guess she is mad.She has a right to be,though,but I get it.Sage wanted Rose to be there,and Soraya would never want to be around Rose.” “Right,”Calum acknowledged. “You know what?Since she signed it,you had better file it immediately before she changes her mind—like,do it now!”Melvin suggested.“This is your chance to finally get rid of her.Isn’t that what you have always wanted?” “Hmmm,”Calum reacted,his hand retaking the divorce agreement.“It is.” He took a pen and was about to sign it when he stopped.His brows met again.“No,I should give her alimony.” “What?Why?She forced her way into this relationship,remember?”Melvin suggested. “She gave me Sage,and she took care of our daughter for six years.Another thing,if my parents ever find out that Soraya is leaving with nothing,we will have another argument,”Calum reasoned. “Well,you have a point.Besides,she’d probably need a lot of money after relinquishing the title of Mrs.Montclair.God knows what kind of work she can do,”Melvin remarked.“Didn’t she simply assist Greg?” “You’re a talented man,Calum.You need someone who matches your skill level,someone like Rose,”Melvin suggested. Calum merely nodded.He called his lawyer and made several arrangements. In the evening,Calum returned home,finding his daughter,Sage,eating a piece of cake from her birthday the other night. “Daddy,this cake isn’t as yummy as Mommy’s cake,”Sage complained. Then,Sage looked behind him,asking,“Is…Is Mommy back?” “No,”Calum replied plainly.“Your mommy may not come to see you for a while,but she told me to remind you that she will always love you.Is that okay?” “Gone for a while?”Sage looked up.“How long?” “I don’t know.For a while,”Calum replied,unsure himself. Sage frowned.Just when Calum thought his daughter was hurt,Sage asked with a smile,“Then,can I invite Aunt Rose?” “You like your Aunt Rose to visit you here?”Calum asked. “Yes,and we can spend time together—like dinner or play in the backyard!”Sage suggested.“I like it when you take me out with Aunt Rose.She buys me a lot of gifts and that means you’ll be here too!” She made a face and suggested,“Because you don’t usually go with me and Mommy.Since Mommy won’t be here for a while,I’d like to spend time with Aunt Rose.” “I see.Then,I’ll tell her.Rose would love to spend more time with you,”Calum said before pinching Sage’s cheek. Calum walked up to the master bedroom after speaking with Sage.He was about to take a shower when he realized his phone had several messages. In a group chat that included his circle of friends,he received many words of encouragement and some advice. Melvin:[Ladies and gentlemen,let’s have dinner tomorrow.Let’s celebrate Calum’s upcoming divorce!] Roger:[What?No way.Soraya practically dedicates her life to Calum.She’ll never leave Calum.] Roger:[I bet it’s just an act.] Melvin:[I thought so too,but she did give Calum a divorce agreement.She signed it.] Jacob:[She asked for a divorce?] Roger:[If that’s the case,congratulations,Calum!] Claire:[Oh,wow!I hope this is for real!Congratulations,Calum!I hate to say this,but Soraya was just too pathetic.She used Sage to keep you for a very long time.] Claire:[ Rose,this is it!Soon,you’ll be Mrs.Montclair.] Melvin:[Rooting for you, Rose and Calum.To new beginnings.] Rose:[You guys.Let’s not be selfish here.We also need to consider Sage’s feelings.] Rose:[ Calum.You know I never pressured you into anything.Think this through properly.Take as much time as you need.] Claire:[You are too considerate,Rose.That’s why you’ll be better suited for my cousin,Calum.] Jacob:[Calum,you need to be sure about this.Sage will need her mother.] Melvin:[What’s wrong with you,Jacob?Don’t you remember how Soraya used such vile methods to force Calum into marriage?] Claire:[Yeah,there was never a relationship between Calum and Soraya.She’s like a surrogate,if anything!] Roger:[Rose can be Sage’s mother.Remember the party?Sage preferred to be with Rose rather than Soraya!] Jacob:[No one can ever replace a mother.] Calum frowned in disbelief.Jacob Steel,usually the most detached and ruthless among them,was taking Soraya’s side?Among his friends,he despised Soraya the most.What had changed? *** What Calum didn’t know was that Jacob had seen Soraya that night.And whatever passed between them…left Jacob questioning everything he thought he knew about her. Chapter 6:Jacob Steel ~Soraya~ Soraya was busy the whole day.After visiting Aegis Core System,she went to the bank to make a deposit and then viewed apartment options. Since she hadn’t yet met with her friend Silas,Soraya remained uncertain about settling in Cedar Heights.Another option was to stay in Belridge momentarily and help restore her uncle’s company to its former glory. As Soraya drove back to her uncle’s house,she passed by a park.Something caught her eye,prompting her to pull over and walk out. She was about to enter the park when she noticed a young girl,looking like she was about four or five,running across the street on her own! Soraya gasped;her motherly instinct kicked in. She noticed a black sedan struggling to avoid the girl.Soraya ran,grabbed the little girl,and rolled to the side of the road.She did not care that she had ruined her coat.Her arms protectively wrapped around the little girl. People crowded around her as Soraya remained on the concrete. “Are you okay,Miss?” “How is the child?” The driver of the black sedan ran to them,saying,“I’m so sorry.She came out of nowhere.I wasn’t sure if stepping on the brakes abruptly was fast enough or—” “It’s okay,we understand,”one man said.“The girl did run too fast into traffic.” “Angela!Angela!”a man’s concerned voice echoed in the air. Everybody figured it was the father or the child’s guardian. Someone had helped Soraya up.Just then,the young girl looked at Soraya with guilt.She appeared teary-eyed and nervous.She sniffed before hugging Soraya back,her little arms wrapping around her neck. “It’s okay.You are fine.You are safe with me,”Soraya assured the child. “Angela!Thank God,you are okay!”the unknown man said behind Soraya. “Mister,you should watch over your daughter carefully.She almost got hit by a car!”someone said. “I’m so sorry,everyone,”the man said,his deep voice laced with a touch of panic. When Soraya finally turned to the man behind the voice,her breath hitched.‘No way!Of all the people!’ It was Jacob Steel. Of course,it was him!Calum’s arrogant,judgmental,steel-faced friend who ironically always looked like he’d stepped out of a luxury magazine ad. His usually pristine trench coat was wrinkled as if he’d run through a storm.His dark hair,always perfectly combed,now fell over his forehead.And his eyes,sharper than she remembered,reflected fear. The sight of him made Soraya pause.The polished,untouchable billionaire,Jacob Steel,suddenly looked human:he was out of breath,messy,and clearly worried. It felt strange. The last time Soraya saw him,he wasn’t exactly kind.Her eyebrows pulled together as the memory came back.Still,when she looked at the little girl clinging to her like a koala,Soraya couldn’t bring herself to pull away. “Soraya,”Jacob spoke first. “Mr.Steel,”Soraya acknowledged. ‘Right,’Soraya remembered.‘Jacob lived in Belridge.This was his town.’ “Is she—”she hesitated before resuming,“your daughter?” “Yes,”Jacob responded. His voice,deep as ever,was slightly ragged from running,but there was something raw in it too.Maybe guilt.Maybe panic.Maybe both. He stretched his arms toward the girl,his eyes clearly inspecting if she had been hurt during the fall. Angela turned to Jacob,silently admitting their kinship,but still,she refused to let go of Soraya. “Angela,come here,let’s not bother Soraya.”Jacob tried to pull Angela away,but the little girl sure was strong. Angela’s actions reminded Soraya of the times when Sage was younger.Soraya’s daughter was the same:possessive of her.When Sage was two years old,Soraya could barely go to the bathroom at night because her daughter did not want to leave her side. While that was happening,the crowd around them had dispersed.The driver from earlier had also left the scene. “Angela,it’s time for dinner.Didn’t you want to eat at your favorite restaurant?Your ice cream is waiting,”Jacob said,pointing to the establishment across the street. ‘Oh,so that’s what happened,’Soraya mused.She tried to help Jacob out by turning to the girl.“Aren’t you hungry?Don’t you want ice cream,Angela?” Only then did the little girl pull away slightly and give Soraya a nod. “Then why don’t you go with your…daddy?”Soraya suggested.She forced a smile,adding,“Get some food and ice cream?” The little girl looked at Soraya with puppy eyes.Then,Angela cupped Soraya’s face and turned her head to the park. She did this twice before Soraya realized Angela wanted to look at the lights display in the park,the same wonder that made her pull over to admire. Soraya couldn’t help but smile.She turned to Angela,asking,“Do you like lights?” Angela nodded.She did not say a word but simply pointed to the light display. “Do you want to go there?”Soraya asked,and the little girl nodded. “Angela,let me take you instead,”Jacob said.This time,he sounded like a scolding father. However,no matter what he did,Angela refused to remove herself from Soraya,and again,she proved to be very strong.Angela used all her limbs to wrap herself around Soraya. “Angela!”This time,Jacob was mad. “You know what?It’s okay,”Soraya said.She smiled again and gazed at the light display.She said to Angela,“Do you want me to go with you there?” Angela finally smiled and nodded.Again,she did not speak and pointed to the beautiful lights. Left with no choice,Jacob followed Soraya and Angela to the park.From the corner of Soraya’s eye,she noticed Mr.Steel signaling what looked like his bodyguard or driver to stay behind. Minutes later,they stood before a mounted LED screen flashing with colorful lights. Angela smiled,her eyes fixed on the lights before her. “Angela likes lights,among other things,”Jacob explained. Soraya did not turn to Jacob.Instead,she focused on the LED screen. It was bright and colorful.A huge toy robot lit up with dancing lights.The lights moved in patterns,spinning,flashing,and changing colors. Most people watched for fun,but Soraya saw more. She observed closely,her eyes following each flash.A slow smile formed on her lips. ‘The colors change every two seconds...It flashes in a loop...That part repeats every five steps...Oh,they used a spiral pattern.Nice,’she remarked silently. Her brain was already breaking it down like a puzzle.She could guess the timing,the rhythm,and the pattern without anyone telling her.It made her feel calm,as if the lights spoke a quiet language only she could hear. In all the noise around her,this made sense.Numbers made sense.Patterns were safe. For a moment,Soraya forgot everything else:Calum,Sage,her parents,her pain.She just felt like herself again. “Angela is an Aspie,”Jacob said.“She’s fixated on fast-moving lights and patterns.” Soraya’s smile brightened,and her gaze shifted to Angela,who was still looking at the LED screen.She responded to Jacob,“I had a feeling.The way she communicated through gestures reminded me of how I used to be.” Turning to Jacob,she admitted,“I should know.I also have Asperger’s Syndrome.” The revelation made Jacob frown.She assumed he thought ill of her again,as usual.Soraya scoffed and said,“If you don’t believe me,I don’t care.I’m not trying to win your sympathy.I—I just feel for your daughter,Mr.Steel.” Just then,Angela turned to Soraya with a bright smile.She opened her mouth,hesitated,then tried again.Finally,she said,“M...M...Mommy.” Hearing that,Soraya’s heart leaped,her eyebrows raising.‘What?’ On the other hand,Jacob froze,his eyes locked on Angela. The sudden silence stretched between them,heavy and charged.Then his voice broke through,filled with shock.“Angela...you spoke?” If it wasn’t enough to make Soraya panic,Angela further tightened her hold,saying,“Can you be my Mommy?” Soraya nearly choked on her spew.She wished she could bury herself under the ground,right that very moment. ================================ Open the app and continue reading the rest ofthe story .👉(lt will automatically jump to thebook when you open the app)

😭💔💔💔I have the best mother-in-law in the world, yet I couldn’t win my husband’s love. I once naively believed our daughter’s arrival might change his heart. Then, at her birthday party, I saw him and another woman holding our daughter’s hands — standing together like a perfect family portrait. After seven years of marriage, I had lost completely — not only his love, but even my daughter’s gaze no longer belonged to me. In that moment, my heart shattered like glass. So I quietly resigned from my job, mailed the divorce papers, and completely left their world. This time, I made a clean break — without a single glance back. ================================ Chapter 1:The Family Of Three Soraya Montclair lasted 120 days without a word from her husband. She thought she’d already survived the worst. Until tonight. Under the stage lights,her daughter walked out—hand in hand with his mistress. “Mommy,”she called sweetly… but not to her. The audience applauded. Her husband stood beside them,like it was always meant to be this way. And Soraya? Just a stranger in the crowd. The first piano note rang out. And something inside her finally broke. *** ~Soraya~ “Excuse me,where’s the auditorium?”Soraya asked the school’s security guard. “That way,”the guard pointed.“Are you attending the recital?” “Yes,my daughter is playing the piano today,”she happily shared.“She doesn’t know I’m coming.I’m surprising her.” “Well,better hurry,ma’am.It’s about to start.Good luck to your daughter!”the guard answered. “Thank you!”Soraya clutched the small gift bag tighter and dashed off,her heels tapping across the marble floor. Soraya missed her daughter so much. Her little girl,Sage,bright and beautiful,was her world.Soraya swore she would hug and kiss her the moment she saw her. She wanted to look her best for Sage,wearing her favorite dress and the perfume her daughter once said smelled like“home.”Because lately,“home”had been slipping away. Why?Because someone had been trying to steal her daughter’s affection,and that worried her the most. Her husband,Calum Montclair,had sent her on a business trip for four months.While she was gone,she rarely had contact with Sage.Worse,she felt as though her daughter had been avoiding her. Soraya’s trip wasn’t due to end until next week,but she worked long hours to finish early. The auditorium was packed when she arrived.There were no seats left.She stood at the back,craning her neck,clutching her gift and her phone. Soraya texted her husband,letting him know that she was already there: [I can’t find you and Sage.Where are you?I just arrived at the auditorium.I made it to Sage’s recital!] There was no answer,not that she expected any. The truth was,her husband never loved her.She had come to terms with that. The only person who kept her holding on to her marriage was Sage. It didn’t matter,though.She was used to her husband’s indifference.She just wanted to see her daughter. The recital began.The auditorium came to life as kids from Evermoor Academy began their performances. Phones were up,taking photos and videos.Around Soraya,people clapped enthusiastically.Some parents even joined their children’s performances. “Sage,where are you?”Soraya looked around,but still,she couldn’t find her daughter. She managed to move past the crowd.And finally,when she reached the center of the auditorium,she noticed her husband’s tall frame.He was seated in the front row,looking as handsome as ever. But when Soraya saw who was sitting beside him,she froze. Her face turned pale,and her hands trembled.Before she could process anything,the host’s voice echoed through the speakers. “And next to perform is Sage Montclair!She will be playing a classical piece on the piano with her mom!” The words rang in Soraya’s head. ‘Sage is performing with me?’she thought,confused.She and her daughter hadn’t practiced at all.She had been gone for four months.Although,Soraya had been the one who taught her daughter how to play. But when her daughter stepped onto the stage,everything became clear. She was not the“Mom”they were referring to. They were referring to someone else. Walking onto the stage beside her daughter was Rose Becket,her husband’s mistress. Yes,Soraya was married,but her husband loved another. The next few minutes felt like torture.Soraya could only watch as her beloved daughter played the piano beside Rose,each note striking deeper than the last. As they played,Sage glanced up at Rose with a smile so pure it shattered Soraya’s heart.Their fingers moved in perfect harmony.It was an unspoken bond on full display. ‘So this was why Sage had been secretive about the recital,’Soraya realized bitterly. Her daughter,the child she carried for ten months,the little girl she raised and loved for six years,had chosen another woman to share her music,her joy,her heart. Of course,it made her angry.This was Calum’s mistress,after all! How could Calum let Rose play with Sage?And Sage already knew Soraya detested Rose! By the time Sage’s recital ended,Soraya was burning with rage.She barely heard the host call Calum to the stage. “Let us also welcome Sage’s dad up to the stage,our principal sponsor for today’s event,Mr.Calum Montclair!” Soraya watched her husband’s proud expression.Calum wore a custom-made suit,his tall frame and chiseled features ever so defined.He stood beside Sage and held her hand.Then he smiled at Rose. That smile was priceless,gentle,and full of adoration. ‘So he does know how to smile,’Soraya muttered.Because in front of her,he only ever wore indifference. “Wow,such a lovely couple.” “And they have a beautiful child as well.” Soraya overheard the praises,and instantly,a tear slid down her cheek;her throat felt paper-dry. ‘Indeed,’she thought.‘They look like the perfect family of three.’ Calum Montclair,the CEO of the Montclair Group,was every woman’s desire.He was the wealthiest man in Cedar Heights,having transformed their family business into a thriving empire.Rose Becket,on the other hand,was said to be a gifted entrepreneur,having launched a fashion line immediately after her doctoral degree. In the eyes of many,they were a perfect couple,but no one knew that Rose was merely…the other woman. Just when Soraya thought she had seen enough,the host encouraged Sage to say a few words.And her little girl proudly said,“I would like to thank my Mommy Rose for coming to school today and playing with me!She is so pretty,smart,and talented!And I’m so happy Daddy came to my recital.It’s his first time!” The crowd laughed at Sage’s excitement,whereas Rose smacked Calum’s arm,teasing him. Everyone in the auditorium was amused…except Soraya. Her heart shattered into a million pieces. She mused silently,‘If they were the perfect family of three…then where do I belong?’ *** The recital was over. The crowd began to disperse. But Soraya stood still for a moment,her heart refusing to move on. Then she saw them. Calum.Rose.And Sage.Her Sage.They were together like a picture-perfect family. Despite the growing ache in her chest,Soraya forced her trembling legs to move.As she approached,Sage’s teacher,Miss Gale,noticed her and froze. “Mrs.Montclair…”the teacher murmured.Her expression was a mix of sympathy and shock. “I’m sorry,Mrs.Montclair.”If anyone,Miss Gale had witnessed all of Soraya’s sacrifices for Sage in school.She knew,Soraya was the rightful Mrs.Montclair.When Sage got hurt or sick while in school,Soraya always came to her daughter’s aid.Soraya attended most school activities without Calum. Soraya averted her gaze. “It’s fine,”she whispered to Miss Gale,though nothing about it was. When Calum’s eyes met hers,his expression hardened.Deep lines etched across his face as his brows furrowed.Without a word,he reached for Sage’s hand and guided Rose away,right past her. Like she was invisible. “Sage!Sage,wait!”Soraya called,running a few steps after them. Her daughter turned.For one hopeful second,Soraya thought Sage would run to her.But instead,Sage’s eyes darted toward Rose,and she looked away. Then,as if in slow motion,Sage reached for Rose’s hand instead. Soraya’s chest tightened. She could barely breathe as she followed them out of the auditorium,ignoring the stares that followed. By the time she caught up,they were already at the parking lot. Sage and Rose were seated in the car.Only Calum stood outside,his posture cold and guarded. “Why are you back?”he demanded.His jaw clenched,hands buried in his pockets like he was trying to restrain himself. “I wanted to make it to my daughter’s birthday,”Soraya said,forcing a smile.“Can’t I—” “You’re not invited,”Calum snapped. Chapter 2:Replaced ~Soraya~ ‘Not invented?’The words hit like a slap. Sage’s birthday was two days away.That was Soraya’s other reason for returning early. “What?”Soraya blinked,her voice trembling.“What do you mean I’m not invited?I’m Sage’s mother.” “We’ve already made arrangements,”he said flatly.“I’m introducing Rose to new friends.So no,you’re not coming.” Her voice broke as she shot back,“You don’t get to decide that,Calum!She’s my daughter too!” Calum’s lips curled cruelly.“Then go ahead.Ask Sage.” He motioned to the car.The window rolled down with a soft hum. Sage’s small face appeared,so familiar,yet so painfully distant. “Sage,sweetheart,”Soraya said softly,trying to steady her voice.“Aren’t we going to celebrate your birthday like we always do?At home?Mommy’s back.I can bake your favorite cake.” Her daughter fidgeted,glancing toward Rose and Calum. “Sage,please,”Soraya whispered,her chest tightening.“Don’t you miss Mommy?” She hoped again.In her mind,she prayed to the heavens. Calum’s voice cut through the air.“Go ahead,Sage.Tell her.” Sage swallowed hard.Then,with her little voice trembling,she said,“I’m sorry,Mommy.You’re not invited to my birthday.Daddy and Aunt Rose already made plans.” For a second,Soraya forgot how to breathe. “Sage…you don’t mean that,”she said,tears spilling freely now.“I’m your Mommy.I love you more than anyone.” “Sage,don’t you love Mommy anymore?”Soraya tried again. Sage opened her mouth,but she closed it again.Then,after looking at Rose,she turned to Soraya.“I want to celebrate my birthday with Aunt Rose.” Soraya’s heart sank altogether. Because Sage’s choice was clear. Her daughter preferred Rose over her. “I’m sorry,Soraya,”Rose said smoothly,placing a hand on Sage’s shoulder.“But it’s her birthday.Whatever she wishes for,she gets.” Then,with a smug smile,Rose added,“And she wants to spend her birthday with me.” “We are not coming home.”Calum didn’t even look back.He opened the driver’s door,got in. “Calum,”she called.“Calum,wait!I’m not done talking to Sage!” But despite her plea,the car drove past her. “Wait!”Soraya ran.Tears,yet again,spilling down her face. Because she tried so hard to chase after Calum,she ended up falling on the ground and spraining her ankle! “Mrs.Montclair!”Miss Gale noticed her and offered help.“Let me take you to the hospital.” Soraya looked up and caught a view of her daughter’s face looking out the window,just as Calum’s car left the parking lot. Sage saw. Calum surely saw,but neither of them bothered to stop the car and check on her. *** “Soraya!Oh,my goodness!How are you?”Lyra Hayes,Soraya’s long-time college friend,came to the hospital to help her. Sage’s teacher could only manage to take her to the hospital,but she had other things to do.So,Soraya called her friend over. Soraya was in the ER,getting her ankle wrapped.When the nurse was done,she shared with her friend.“I tried to chase after Calum’s car.” It had been a long time since Soraya and Lyra connected.Her friend had been away for a while,working in another city.But thankfully,that day,Soraya’s call made it through,and Lyra was available. She told Lyra everything that happened earlier that day. “Oh,my god,Soraya.This has gone too far,”Lyra said.“Even Sage?” Soraya did not answer first.She grabbed her phone and sent her daughter a message:[Sage,I really miss you.Where are you and your daddy?] She waited,and two check marks appeared on the messaging app,but Sage did not reply. Soraya:[Don’t you want to see me on your birthday?] Still,there was no reply. “Lyra,I’m tired,”she said,tears gathering in her eyes. Her friend nodded.She offered Soraya a hug and said,“I can imagine.Seven years into this marriage,and this is what you get in return.” She cried hard. Her friend cried with her. Because of the pain she felt,Soraya started counting numbers in her head.It was one of the ways she tried to take control of her emotions.‘Four.Three.Two.One.’ Lyra was one of those who had witnessed all her sacrifices for Calum and Sage.So her friend knew just how deep her pain was. “I’m really tired,”Soraya repeated.”If Sage doesn’t want me anymore,then what’s the point of staying?” Lyra nodded. “It’s time,Soraya,”Lyra said,pulling away. “Can you help me get a lawyer?I want to draft a divorce agreement,”Soraya said. *** Soraya had discovered her husband’s affair with Rose more than six months ago.How long had it been going on?She never found out. Only a handful of people knew Calum was married—his parents and a few trusted friends.So when he began showing up at public events with Rose,no one questioned it.No one knew he already had a wife waiting at home. The Montclairs objected,of course.Calum’s parents,Amanda and Cedric,adored Soraya.They tried everything to make their son love her.They even encouraged her to work at the Montclair Group.So that she could stand by his side and earn his approval one small step at a time. She gave up her career for him.Her ambitions.All for a love that never came.Instead,the more she tried,the colder he became. By the time Soraya learned about Rose,it was already too late.Calum had introduced Sage to her long before. Sage was too young to understand.She was just a child.She was innocent,curious,and easily won over by kindness. “Aunt Rose is really pretty,Mommy.She dresses really nice.She buys me gifts all the time.She’s Daddy’s friend,”her daughter once said,smiling. Back then,Soraya hadn’t thought much of it.But when whispers reached her ears,the rumors about Calum and a beautiful entrepreneur named Rose Becket,something inside her twisted. The name rang a bell. And then everything made sense. She confronted Calum,trembling,angry,humiliated. He didn’t even look up from his work. “Mind your own business,”he said. That was how insignificant she was to him. It hurt. It hurt over and over again. Following that confrontation,Calum sent her away on a business trip. “Only you can close this deal,”he said. For the first time,Soraya believed he trusted her with something important.In those four months,she worked day and night,desperate to make him proud. But it was all a lie. Apparently,Calum had planned it from the start.He wanted her gone.He wanted Sage and Rose to have time together,to build a bond in her absence. Now that she was back,she realized what he had truly accomplished. He hadn’t just betrayed her. He had replaced her in Sage’s heart. Chapter 3:Choose Herself ~Rose~ In a high-end luxury penthouse,Rose was reading Sage a bedtime story.As she did,the young girl looked around the room,her eyes wide with wonder. Rose was pleased.After all,she had prepared the room for Sage. The bed was big and fluffy,with light curtains hanging from the window.On the walls were posters of Sage’s favorite girl band.Her favorite books were stacked neatly on the table beside the bed. Rose had gone all out,as if for someone she deeply cared about. Why?Because Sage cared.That’s what made her so easy to spoil…so easy to win. Rose had watched her quietly over the past few months,noticing how Sage lit up with attention and gifts,and how she softened with kindness.And as Soraya started slipping from Sage’s thoughts,Rose didn’t have to say much. A small comment here,a quiet smile there…It was enough. Sometimes,love wasn’t stolen.It was gently replaced. And Rose knew how to do that—especially with a child who still believed the world was kind. “The end,”Aunt Rose said after closing the book. “Aunt Rose,this house you’re staying in looks very new and expensive too,”Sage said. “Your dad bought it for me.That’s how much he cares about me,”Rose replied. “Why doesn’t Daddy care for Mommy?”Sage asked.“If only he would care for her and show up at home to celebrate my birthday.” Rose shrugged and said,“To care for someone,you can’t force it.” She didn’t know if Sage would understand,but she hoped the little girl would.After all,Calum never cared for Soraya.They were married,but there was never a real relationship between them. At best,Soraya was a mere surrogate. “But Mommy loves me,”Sage said,looking conflicted. “Oh,my poor baby.”Rose offered an embrace and hugged her.“I know your mom loves you.But sometimes,love isn’t enough to keep a family together.” “Are you sure about tomorrow?Aunt Rose and your daddy can always step away for your mommy,”Rose suggested. Sage shook her head.“No,I want to be with you and Daddy on my birthday.” A triumphant smile spread across Rose’s face.She had been patient,but she knew it wouldn’t be long now.Surely,with everything going on,Soraya would break. After putting Sage to sleep,Rose smiled.She walked back to the study,where Calum had been working on his laptop. Earlier’s encounter with Soraya was unexpected.She wasn’t supposed to be back until next week. Honestly?Rose was worried Soraya would spoil the birthday party she had planned for Sage,but to her surprise,Calum’s daughter didn’t want her mother there! It was perfect.Her plan was moving forward,faster than she expected. “Sage is asleep,”Rose said to Calum. “Good,”Calum simply said,his fingers still working on the keyboard. “I think I’ve totally won her over,”Rose claimed,walking toward him and sitting on his lap.“You didn’t think I’d be able to do it,did you?” Calum stopped whatever he was doing and wrapped his arms around her.“Hmm.You did well.” Rose kissed Calum,and within minutes,sensual moans filled the air. She rejoiced inside.There was no sweeter victory than having the wealthiest man in the city wrapped around her finger. *** ~Soraya~ “Hi?What’s your name?”the fourteen-year-old Soraya greeted with a smile.She was attending Cedric Montclair’s birthday party.Upon seeing Calum,she immediately approached. Of course,Soraya already knew who he was.The Montclair and Azar families had lived across from each other for years. “Calum,”the young Montclair heir said.He shook his head like he already knew there was no need for introductions. “Can we be friends,Calum?”she asked. He just shrugged,and Soraya took it as an approval. There was a time when Soraya and Calum got along just fine.Their families were close,and being neighbors,Soraya saw his achievements and grew to admire Calum. Yes,Calum was a handsome man.He was tall and athletic,with brown hair and sharp blue eyes.But Soraya didn’t fall for just his looks.She loved the quiet strength he carried.He didn’t talk much,but when he did,people listened.He took over the family business at a young age,and even then,he acted with the seriousness of someone much older. Yet life had a way of turning everything upside down. One crucial night changed everything,forcing them into marriage. That was when Calum started hating Soraya.He firmly believed she had orchestrated the events leading up to her pregnancy. Soraya had hoped she could win Calum’s heart.After all,she was young,bright,and attractive.She had an angelic beauty,with long,brown hair that cascaded down her back and skin as fair as ivory.She did not have to wear heavy makeup or provocative clothes to stand out.Aside from her natural qualities,Calum’s parents adored her. However,throughout their marriage,Calum treated her with disdain.He ignored her,and the worst part was how he allowed his friends to look down on her.And now,he flaunted a mistress without even batting an eye. There was no other way to go around it.Soraya needed to choose herself,or else she would be the useless person Calum’s friends had labeled her to be. Soraya had been home this past few days,packing her things.One would think that,despite her absence,her husband would call or be concerned—but no.He never called or texted. Calum didn’t care. They did not celebrate their anniversary.Calum never came to her birthday celebrations,and unless the party was held at the Montclair mansion,Soraya was never invited to his birthday party. Neither had Sage replied to any of her messages,maybe too afraid she would ruin her birthday celebration. Soraya had already called her uncle.She was moving in with them in Beldridge,the next town.Her uncle had relocated a few years back.Only she remained to be with Sage. Just before leaving,she left the signed divorce papers with the maid.She told her,“Please give this to Calum.These are divorce papers that I have signed.Tell him I sent him a message.He hasn’t read it yet.” Belinda,the maid,who had long served them as Sage’s nanny,gulped.She said,“Are you sure,Mrs.Montclair?” “Look at me,Belinda.It’s my daughter’s birthday,but she didn’t even invite me,”Soraya forced a smile and said.“It’s for the best.” She hugged Belinda and said,“Thank you,Belinda,for everything.I now leave my daughter’s care in your hands.” “Mrs.Montclair,”Belinda wept.“I know where Sage’s birthday is being held.I wasn’t supposed to tell you.It’s at the Butter&Crumb Cafe.” Soraya nodded.“Thanks for telling me.I guess I could drop by and just look.I promise I won’t tell.” Her mother’s heart still couldn’t leave it alone.At least,she wanted to wish her daughter a happy birthday from a distance.So,she made her way to the Butter&Crumb Cafe. Soraya thought she was prepared for what she would see,but she was wrong.She was very wrong. *** “Happy Birthday,happy birthday,happy birthday,dear Sage.Happy birthday to you!” Soraya watched in secret behind a door as the scene unfolded. Balloons floated lazily in the breeze.Laughter danced like music across the cafe’s garden area. And in the center of it all was Sage,in someone else’s arms. Rose was carrying Sage while Calum clapped his hands.The crowd cheered as the trio blew out the candle on the giant fondant birthday cake. Sage did not even like fondant cake,but she looked happy. Around them were Calum’s social circle,his wealthy friends,and two of his cousins. “Sage,are you happy to celebrate your birthday with Rose?”Claire,Calum’s cousin,asked Sage. “Yes,of course!I love being with Aunt Rose!”Sage said,wrapping her arms around Rose with a beaming smile.“Even my classmates like Aunt Rose.” “We are happy for you,Sage!”someone said. “We are happy for all of you!”Calum’s cousin raised a glass,referring to Sage,Rose,and Calum. From where Soraya stood,she overheard everything. Soraya,yet again,questioned her life choices and the sacrifices she had made for her family.‘Was it worth it?’ Right now,it did not feel like it. What further added to Soraya’s resentment was how Rose was warmly welcomed by Calum’s friends. Never had Calum brought Soraya to any of his friends’gatherings.However,it was so much easier to flaunt Rose in front of them. Soraya felt the ache again,so much that she rested her hand on her chest.After witnessing enough emotional torture,she turned on her heels,but as she did,she bumped into a tall,overbearing man on the street. “What are you doing here?Don’t cause any trouble.It’s Sage’s birthday!”he warned.This man was Jacob Steel,one of Calum’s friends,a high-profile businessman in Belridge,the neighboring town.Like Calum,Jacob had that icy charisma and the unmistakable air of affluence. Hearing Jacob’s remark,Soraya retorted,“Cause trouble?Me?Why would you think that,Mr.Steel?I willingly agreed not to be invited to my own daughter’s birthday.As a mother,I just wanted to see her.Is it a crime?” She could tell Jacob was stunned by Soraya’s reply. “I know.I know.You think I’m the evil one here?But,do you really think I wanted this?”Soraya snapped.She couldn’t help it.All of Calum’s friends had judged her the moment she got pregnant with Sage.“I’m still twenty-six.I got married at nineteen and threw away my life and career for Calum and Sage!” “You all judged me,but you never really tried finding out the truth.”Soraya’s jaws clenched.“Fine,though.Let me be the bad person!It doesn’t matter.I don’t care anymore.” She turned her back on Jacob and marched toward her car.In the car,she called her Uncle Philip.“Uncle.I’m leaving for Beldrige.See you in two hours or less.” “And…Soraya,what about Sage?”her uncle asked. Soraya thought about it and said,“Sage…she—she doesn’t need me anymore.” Chapter 4:Resigned ~Soraya~ On a Monday,Soraya drove back to Cedar Heights early in the morning.It was an hour-and-a-half drive. She was already four blocks away when she noticed Calum’s car! Yet again,she sensed her heart racing.She had to pull over and calm her emotions.With her eyes closed,she muttered,“Twenty,nineteen,eighteen,seventeen…one.” As her eyes slowly opened,she spotted Calum’s vehicle parked two cars down.Moments later,Calum stepped out and opened the passenger door,letting Rose Becket exit with a bright smile. Soraya looked away,realizing that Calum and Rose were together as early as seven.It could only mean they had slept together.Worse,maybe he had brought Rose to their marital home. Her chest tightened again,so much that counting numbers no longer worked. Soraya hugged herself and muttered her newfound mantra,“Control,Soraya,control.Feelings pass.Feelings pass.Control.” It took a while,but when Soraya had finally regained her composure,she realized Calum had brought Rose to her boutique. Soraya didn’t know Calum had a romantic side.She supposed he never really cared for her at all. A bitter smile tugged at Soraya’s lips.She let the truth sink in deeper,letting her anger sharpen her resolve.This low point was only temporary;her comeback was already coming. After Calum left Rose’s shop,Soraya waited five minutes before driving to Aegis Core Systems. Aegis Core Systems was a top-tier cybersecurity firm known for its enterprise-grade protection.It had built a multi-million-dollar empire by supplying advanced security solutions to major corporations. Its most profitable system was the NeuroSentinel. Soraya parked her car and went straight to the upper ground floor.Approaching the front desk,Soraya said,“Excuse me.My name is Soraya Azar.I want to claim my profit share for the past four years.” “Do you have a licensing profit share,Miss?”the front desk asked with a smile. “Yes,”Soraya replied. The lady called the person in charge,and after confirming that Soraya was,in fact,a developer of one of their programs,she gave her an ID pass. Soraya easily found her way to the finance department.The person in charge gave her a big smile.He looked tense as he offered his hand,“Miss Azar,it’s such an honor to meet you!And my,you are so young and beautiful!” “I’m sorry.I never expected you to be this young,but then again,most geniuses are young.”The man motioned to a seat and said,“Please,have some coffee or tea.” “Thank you for the compliment.”Soraya’s heart was still like a block of ice,but she forced a smile.“Water is fine.Is the check ready?I called last Thursday to make the withdrawal.” “Yes,it’s ready.I prepared the check.I was very excited to meet you,”the man said.“My name is Albert Smith.I am the accounts payable manager.I started working here two years ago and heard so much about you from Mr.Ward.” Soraya could not help but smile at the mention of her old friend,Silas Ward.Her heart softened a little.She asked,“I’d really like to see Silas.Is he here at the moment?” “Mr.Ward is on a business trip.He has been a busy man,following our expansion to the capital.After all,he is now the big boss,”Albert remarked,chuckling. “The big boss?”Soraya asked,bemused. “You don’t know?”Albert asked.“Mr.Ward is now the CEO of Aegis Core Systems.He had his appointment last month.After your collaborative effort with Mr.Ward,he quickly rose from a Tech Engineer to a project manager,VP,and now,the boss.” “I believe he used his profit share to buy company shares of Aegis Core Systems,”Albert reported. Soraya’s mouth fell open in disbelief. Her dear old friend had made it big! And then it hit her like a slap:if she hadn’t abandoned her career at Aegis Core Systems,she could have been standing beside Silas by now. Yes,this was her first workplace after completing her Computer Engineering degree at Cedar Heights Institute of Technology. Soraya had a unique way of learning and processing numbers.She was so good at it that she managed to skip grade levels and finished college when she was eighteen.After graduation,her internship company,Aegis Core Systems,immediately offered her a job,and she began working under the mentorship of Silas Ward. Because of her busy schedule,taking care of Sage while working hard for Calum,Soraya had not been in touch with Silas.She wasn’t the type to have a social media account either.In the middle of everything,Soraya had lost her old phone,leaving her with no way to contact Silas. “I am happy for Silas,”Soraya said.Then,she wrote her number on a piece of paper,handing it to Albert.“Do you mind telling him that I came to see him?Here’s my number.I changed contact information three years ago.” “Certainly,Miss Azar.When he returns,I shall give him your number.”Albert put her contact information inside his drawer.Then,he said,“Excuse me for a moment.I just need to get the acknowledgement paper for your check.” Albert came back with the document,which Soraya quickly signed.Then,Albert passed her the check,shocking Soraya to the core.“I earned six million dollars in four years?” That was ten times more than what she had expected.It was primarily the reason why she took so long to withdraw her profit share.Soraya was saving it for rainy days. Then,the gut punch. “Miss Azar,”Albert said.“You would have earned ten times more if you hadn’t given up your exclusive rights as the co-developer of NeuroSentinel.” *** ~Calum~ Meanwhile,back at the Montclair Group,Calum,Soraya’s soon-to-be ex-husband,was reviewing documents on his desk when his assistant walked in.He called his assistant and asked,“Is Soraya back?Tell her to stop her theatrics and work on the East Project.” Greg Foster,Calum’s assistant,gulped.In the office,only he knew Soraya was his wife.“Sir,your wife called me last week and said she was resigning effective immediately.Miss Azar said,she informed you.” Calum stilled. His eyes landed on the brown envelope Belinda gave him before leaving the house that day.He still hadn’t opened it yet,and he still hadn’t read Soraya’s messages. Calum thought Soraya was still throwing a tantrum,but when he read her text,his brows knitted. He…couldn’t believe it. Chapter 5:Divorce ~Calum~ Calum’s striking features tightened subtly.His brows pulled together,creating a slight furrow between his usually composed eyes.He was a man who never second-guessed himself,but at that moment,he hesitated. Slowly,he read Soraya’s text. [Calum, Let’s end this,once and for all. First,I am formally resigning.Please allow me to leave the company immediately and without complication.I’ve dedicated the past four years to serving you,often without pause.There is no longer any reason for me to remain.I’m sure you’d prefer my absence. Second,the matter of our divorce.I am not seeking anything from you.I only want my freedom.This will also allow you the freedom to be with Rose openly and without restraint.I have not informed your parents of my decision.I trust you will handle that appropriately. Third,about Sage.I won’t fight for custody.Please tell her that I love her deeply and always will.I won’t be seeing her for now.I need time to remove myself from everything.In truth,I believe she would rather stay with Rose than with me. Lastly,there’s no need for further contact between us.Below is the contact information for my lawyer.Please have your legal team coordinate directly with them to finalize the divorce proceedings. I trust you will see this through swiftly. –Soraya] Inside the brown envelope Belinda had given him,Calum pulled out a divorce agreement.He confirmed that Soraya had,in fact,asked for nothing.He sucked in a deep breath and leaned back in his seat. Just as he stared at the last page,where Soraya’s signature had been affixed,someone knocked on his office door.One of his good friends walked in—Melvin Carter. “Calum,I really need to talk to you about my investments,”Melvin said before finding his seat. Like Calum,Melvin was a businessman.His family owned several gas stations in Cedar Heights and Belridge. Seeing Calum seriously holding on to a set of documents,Melvin asked,“What’s that you are reading?” “Soraya asked for a divorce,”Calum revealed. “Pfft!”Melvin leaned back,laughing.“What a joke.We all know she would never divorce you.She’s banking on the fact that she has the support of your parents!” “She was the one who drafted this divorce letter,”Calum revealed.“She…even tendered an immediate resignation.” Melvin grabbed the divorce agreement and noted,“She doesn’t want anything?”He shook his head,saying,“I don’t believe it.Trust me,Calum.She is just doing this to get your attention.Give it a few days,and you’ll see,she’ll come running back here.” “She hasn’t been home for a week,”Calum pointed out. “After she found out she wasn’t invited to Sage’s birthday?”Melvin asked.He hissed and added,“I guess she is mad.She has a right to be,though,but I get it.Sage wanted Rose to be there,and Soraya would never want to be around Rose.” “Right,”Calum acknowledged. “You know what?Since she signed it,you had better file it immediately before she changes her mind—like,do it now!”Melvin suggested.“This is your chance to finally get rid of her.Isn’t that what you have always wanted?” “Hmmm,”Calum reacted,his hand retaking the divorce agreement.“It is.” He took a pen and was about to sign it when he stopped.His brows met again.“No,I should give her alimony.” “What?Why?She forced her way into this relationship,remember?”Melvin suggested. “She gave me Sage,and she took care of our daughter for six years.Another thing,if my parents ever find out that Soraya is leaving with nothing,we will have another argument,”Calum reasoned. “Well,you have a point.Besides,she’d probably need a lot of money after relinquishing the title of Mrs.Montclair.God knows what kind of work she can do,”Melvin remarked.“Didn’t she simply assist Greg?” “You’re a talented man,Calum.You need someone who matches your skill level,someone like Rose,”Melvin suggested. Calum merely nodded.He called his lawyer and made several arrangements. In the evening,Calum returned home,finding his daughter,Sage,eating a piece of cake from her birthday the other night. “Daddy,this cake isn’t as yummy as Mommy’s cake,”Sage complained. Then,Sage looked behind him,asking,“Is…Is Mommy back?” “No,”Calum replied plainly.“Your mommy may not come to see you for a while,but she told me to remind you that she will always love you.Is that okay?” “Gone for a while?”Sage looked up.“How long?” “I don’t know.For a while,”Calum replied,unsure himself. Sage frowned.Just when Calum thought his daughter was hurt,Sage asked with a smile,“Then,can I invite Aunt Rose?” “You like your Aunt Rose to visit you here?”Calum asked. “Yes,and we can spend time together—like dinner or play in the backyard!”Sage suggested.“I like it when you take me out with Aunt Rose.She buys me a lot of gifts and that means you’ll be here too!” She made a face and suggested,“Because you don’t usually go with me and Mommy.Since Mommy won’t be here for a while,I’d like to spend time with Aunt Rose.” “I see.Then,I’ll tell her.Rose would love to spend more time with you,”Calum said before pinching Sage’s cheek. Calum walked up to the master bedroom after speaking with Sage.He was about to take a shower when he realized his phone had several messages. In a group chat that included his circle of friends,he received many words of encouragement and some advice. Melvin:[Ladies and gentlemen,let’s have dinner tomorrow.Let’s celebrate Calum’s upcoming divorce!] Roger:[What?No way.Soraya practically dedicates her life to Calum.She’ll never leave Calum.] Roger:[I bet it’s just an act.] Melvin:[I thought so too,but she did give Calum a divorce agreement.She signed it.] Jacob:[She asked for a divorce?] Roger:[If that’s the case,congratulations,Calum!] Claire:[Oh,wow!I hope this is for real!Congratulations,Calum!I hate to say this,but Soraya was just too pathetic.She used Sage to keep you for a very long time.] Claire:[ Rose,this is it!Soon,you’ll be Mrs.Montclair.] Melvin:[Rooting for you, Rose and Calum.To new beginnings.] Rose:[You guys.Let’s not be selfish here.We also need to consider Sage’s feelings.] Rose:[ Calum.You know I never pressured you into anything.Think this through properly.Take as much time as you need.] Claire:[You are too considerate,Rose.That’s why you’ll be better suited for my cousin,Calum.] Jacob:[Calum,you need to be sure about this.Sage will need her mother.] Melvin:[What’s wrong with you,Jacob?Don’t you remember how Soraya used such vile methods to force Calum into marriage?] Claire:[Yeah,there was never a relationship between Calum and Soraya.She’s like a surrogate,if anything!] Roger:[Rose can be Sage’s mother.Remember the party?Sage preferred to be with Rose rather than Soraya!] Jacob:[No one can ever replace a mother.] Calum frowned in disbelief.Jacob Steel,usually the most detached and ruthless among them,was taking Soraya’s side?Among his friends,he despised Soraya the most.What had changed? *** What Calum didn’t know was that Jacob had seen Soraya that night.And whatever passed between them…left Jacob questioning everything he thought he knew about her. Chapter 6:Jacob Steel ~Soraya~ Soraya was busy the whole day.After visiting Aegis Core System,she went to the bank to make a deposit and then viewed apartment options. Since she hadn’t yet met with her friend Silas,Soraya remained uncertain about settling in Cedar Heights.Another option was to stay in Belridge momentarily and help restore her uncle’s company to its former glory. As Soraya drove back to her uncle’s house,she passed by a park.Something caught her eye,prompting her to pull over and walk out. She was about to enter the park when she noticed a young girl,looking like she was about four or five,running across the street on her own! Soraya gasped;her motherly instinct kicked in. She noticed a black sedan struggling to avoid the girl.Soraya ran,grabbed the little girl,and rolled to the side of the road.She did not care that she had ruined her coat.Her arms protectively wrapped around the little girl. People crowded around her as Soraya remained on the concrete. “Are you okay,Miss?” “How is the child?” The driver of the black sedan ran to them,saying,“I’m so sorry.She came out of nowhere.I wasn’t sure if stepping on the brakes abruptly was fast enough or—” “It’s okay,we understand,”one man said.“The girl did run too fast into traffic.” “Angela!Angela!”a man’s concerned voice echoed in the air. Everybody figured it was the father or the child’s guardian. Someone had helped Soraya up.Just then,the young girl looked at Soraya with guilt.She appeared teary-eyed and nervous.She sniffed before hugging Soraya back,her little arms wrapping around her neck. “It’s okay.You are fine.You are safe with me,”Soraya assured the child. “Angela!Thank God,you are okay!”the unknown man said behind Soraya. “Mister,you should watch over your daughter carefully.She almost got hit by a car!”someone said. “I’m so sorry,everyone,”the man said,his deep voice laced with a touch of panic. When Soraya finally turned to the man behind the voice,her breath hitched.‘No way!Of all the people!’ It was Jacob Steel. Of course,it was him!Calum’s arrogant,judgmental,steel-faced friend who ironically always looked like he’d stepped out of a luxury magazine ad. His usually pristine trench coat was wrinkled as if he’d run through a storm.His dark hair,always perfectly combed,now fell over his forehead.And his eyes,sharper than she remembered,reflected fear. The sight of him made Soraya pause.The polished,untouchable billionaire,Jacob Steel,suddenly looked human:he was out of breath,messy,and clearly worried. It felt strange. The last time Soraya saw him,he wasn’t exactly kind.Her eyebrows pulled together as the memory came back.Still,when she looked at the little girl clinging to her like a koala,Soraya couldn’t bring herself to pull away. “Soraya,”Jacob spoke first. “Mr.Steel,”Soraya acknowledged. ‘Right,’Soraya remembered.‘Jacob lived in Belridge.This was his town.’ “Is she—”she hesitated before resuming,“your daughter?” “Yes,”Jacob responded. His voice,deep as ever,was slightly ragged from running,but there was something raw in it too.Maybe guilt.Maybe panic.Maybe both. He stretched his arms toward the girl,his eyes clearly inspecting if she had been hurt during the fall. Angela turned to Jacob,silently admitting their kinship,but still,she refused to let go of Soraya. “Angela,come here,let’s not bother Soraya.”Jacob tried to pull Angela away,but the little girl sure was strong. Angela’s actions reminded Soraya of the times when Sage was younger.Soraya’s daughter was the same:possessive of her.When Sage was two years old,Soraya could barely go to the bathroom at night because her daughter did not want to leave her side. While that was happening,the crowd around them had dispersed.The driver from earlier had also left the scene. “Angela,it’s time for dinner.Didn’t you want to eat at your favorite restaurant?Your ice cream is waiting,”Jacob said,pointing to the establishment across the street. ‘Oh,so that’s what happened,’Soraya mused.She tried to help Jacob out by turning to the girl.“Aren’t you hungry?Don’t you want ice cream,Angela?” Only then did the little girl pull away slightly and give Soraya a nod. “Then why don’t you go with your…daddy?”Soraya suggested.She forced a smile,adding,“Get some food and ice cream?” The little girl looked at Soraya with puppy eyes.Then,Angela cupped Soraya’s face and turned her head to the park. She did this twice before Soraya realized Angela wanted to look at the lights display in the park,the same wonder that made her pull over to admire. Soraya couldn’t help but smile.She turned to Angela,asking,“Do you like lights?” Angela nodded.She did not say a word but simply pointed to the light display. “Do you want to go there?”Soraya asked,and the little girl nodded. “Angela,let me take you instead,”Jacob said.This time,he sounded like a scolding father. However,no matter what he did,Angela refused to remove herself from Soraya,and again,she proved to be very strong.Angela used all her limbs to wrap herself around Soraya. “Angela!”This time,Jacob was mad. “You know what?It’s okay,”Soraya said.She smiled again and gazed at the light display.She said to Angela,“Do you want me to go with you there?” Angela finally smiled and nodded.Again,she did not speak and pointed to the beautiful lights. Left with no choice,Jacob followed Soraya and Angela to the park.From the corner of Soraya’s eye,she noticed Mr.Steel signaling what looked like his bodyguard or driver to stay behind. Minutes later,they stood before a mounted LED screen flashing with colorful lights. Angela smiled,her eyes fixed on the lights before her. “Angela likes lights,among other things,”Jacob explained. Soraya did not turn to Jacob.Instead,she focused on the LED screen. It was bright and colorful.A huge toy robot lit up with dancing lights.The lights moved in patterns,spinning,flashing,and changing colors. Most people watched for fun,but Soraya saw more. She observed closely,her eyes following each flash.A slow smile formed on her lips. ‘The colors change every two seconds...It flashes in a loop...That part repeats every five steps...Oh,they used a spiral pattern.Nice,’she remarked silently. Her brain was already breaking it down like a puzzle.She could guess the timing,the rhythm,and the pattern without anyone telling her.It made her feel calm,as if the lights spoke a quiet language only she could hear. In all the noise around her,this made sense.Numbers made sense.Patterns were safe. For a moment,Soraya forgot everything else:Calum,Sage,her parents,her pain.She just felt like herself again. “Angela is an Aspie,”Jacob said.“She’s fixated on fast-moving lights and patterns.” Soraya’s smile brightened,and her gaze shifted to Angela,who was still looking at the LED screen.She responded to Jacob,“I had a feeling.The way she communicated through gestures reminded me of how I used to be.” Turning to Jacob,she admitted,“I should know.I also have Asperger’s Syndrome.” The revelation made Jacob frown.She assumed he thought ill of her again,as usual.Soraya scoffed and said,“If you don’t believe me,I don’t care.I’m not trying to win your sympathy.I—I just feel for your daughter,Mr.Steel.” Just then,Angela turned to Soraya with a bright smile.She opened her mouth,hesitated,then tried again.Finally,she said,“M...M...Mommy.” Hearing that,Soraya’s heart leaped,her eyebrows raising.‘What?’ On the other hand,Jacob froze,his eyes locked on Angela. The sudden silence stretched between them,heavy and charged.Then his voice broke through,filled with shock.“Angela...you spoke?” If it wasn’t enough to make Soraya panic,Angela further tightened her hold,saying,“Can you be my Mommy?” Soraya nearly choked on her spew.She wished she could bury herself under the ground,right that very moment. ================================ Open the app and continue reading the rest ofthe story .👉(lt will automatically jump to thebook when you open the app)