Dear Ex-Wife, You Are MINE!

A forbode

VICTORIA’S POV

While sipping my blue pea tea, I stared at the night sky. Though I wasn’t much of a tea lover, it had a unique flavor, something learned from someone special in the past.

My hand fell to my stomach, stroking and caressing. How I wished things were different. I wanted to be with Alessandro, especially through the pregnancy. But I couldn’t.

I had given him three years. Most people even grew to care for animals they didn’t like if they lived with them that long. But I had been his wife, and he had never grown to care for me. I didn’t know how he would react after hearing about the baby. But I didn’t care anymore, not for him or his arrogant family.

This child was mine, and I was its mother, end of discussion.

“Penny, for your thoughts?” Antonio’s deep voice caught my attention. I peered at him in the porch entrance, leaning against the door with his brow raised. My, he looked handsome. And he was incredibly understanding. The woman who landed him would be awfully lucky.

I smiled, shaking my head. “Nothing. Just this and that.”

He sighed, not hiding his concern, then joined me inside, sitting on the sofa. “I only have one sister, and I always want your happiness, even over mine. I know leaving Alessandro isn’t easy, but I hope you stand your ground.”

“Don’t worry, Ant. I’ve had enough of him,” I replied truthfully. “So? How is everything?” I asked, feeling we needed to catch up. It had been a while since I had last spoken to my brother on a regular basis.

a cup of tea from the tray next to me. “Fine. E. Shine is holding a jewelry lunch function tomorrow.” He paused and then said, “Alessandro has

to me anymore,” I said with a dismissive wave. “So? Found a date

yet,” he said, scratching his neck, looking uncomfortable. “Why don’t you come back to

him, my gaze questioning his obvious dodge. But I supposed he had his reasons, and I didn’t want to press him. So I just went along

be silly. You’ve always been a talented designer. Besides, the company isn’t mine alone.

let’s not announce my identity to the public. Not yet. I want

said, “People die for fame, and

I shrugged.

least one benefit—no one will find out.” He winked, and I

****

ALESSANDRO’S POV

Shine’s jewelry launch, I donned a black tie with silver lining, matching my suit. I couldn’t help but think of Victoria as I added the black stone cufflinks while wishing I didn’t have to

But he was about my age and a successful heir

for a man of my stature to attend such a party alone. But what could I do? It wasn’t like I could ask Victoria

a lady’s high heels clicking on the floor caught my attention. I looked up and saw Camilla walking through the door in a silver dress with a split

a sultry smile, she said, “I heard you need a female companion this evening. Is there anyone better than me?” She posed with

she was attractive, even sexy.

it that Victoria was