Sam Shelly

Theodore Maxwell, a ruthless business tycoon driven by vengeance, plots to marry Alina Roosevelt to kill two birds with one stone: get revenge on her father and inherit everything that was rightfully his. Alina, a budding author with a heart as pure as her prose, was blissfully unaware of Theodore's ulterior motives when she said, "I do."

As Theodore's cunning plan unfolded, he found himself captivated by Alina's charm and kindness. Despite his initial intentions, he couldn't help but admire the woman he had married. But just as unexpected love began to blossom, everything crumbled with Alina’s father, who devised a cunning scheme that shattered the fragile peace in their marriage. Consumed by rage and betrayal, Theodore divorces Alina, blaming her for her father's deceit. 

It's too late to realize that Alina was a mere pawn in her father's malicious game. Regret gnawed at his heart as he desperately searched for her, but she had vanished without a trace. Haunted by the memory of his cruel actions, Theodore is set to find Alina and make amends. And he will stop at nothing. How long will Alina be successful in keeping her little secret hidden?
-----------------------------------------------------
“I’m not your wife anymore, Theodore!” I yelled, shoving him away from me. He had absolutely no right to march back into my life. 

“Here’s where you are wrong, Alina,” he took dangerous steps towards me until I was pushed against one of the walls, as he held me captive. “You were mine, then. You are mine now. And you, most definitely, will stay mine in the future. Not even you can separate yourself from me, Alina, because you were born to be mine!” And that’s when he smashed his lips against mine in a furious kiss.

Theodore's Regret

I could still feel the electricity from our dance as I stood there, trying to steady my breath. Theodore's words, his touch, the intensity of our connection—it all lingered in the air around me. But as much as I was caught up in the emotions swirling between us, there was someone else who needed my attention. 


“Yeah! We should…” my eyes traveled between Thea and Theodore before I continued. “We should cut the cake now.” I was sure my cheeks were completely red by now, my stomach was jittery and I was feeling hot after that little dance Theodore had with me. Man, did he make me feel things. Too many things all at once. I took a few deep breaths before calling out for Asher. 


I called out, "Asher! Sweetie, come here!" 


Almost immediately, I heard the sound of his little feet padding across the floor. Asher came running, his Superman cape flapping behind him, a wide grin plastered on his face. He was the picture of joy and innocence, his excitement evident. 


89. Gratitude