Chapter 1: The Family Of Three For seven years, Soraya poured her soul into her family. When her husband and daughter gave their love to the mistress, something inside her shattered. She walked away and never looked back.

**

Soraya

“No! I don’t want you! I want Aunt Rose!” Soraya’s daughter, Sage, screamed. “I want her to come to school with Daddy!”

Those words were like multiple knives that stabbed through Soraya’s heart. Her daughter preferred her husband’s mistress to accompany her to school.

“But, Sage, I’m your mom,” Soraya tried to reason, but her daughter only threw a tantrum, hurling the vase in the living room and screaming.

“But I like Aunt Rose. She is pretty and talented, and Dad likes her very much!” Sage retorted, further tightening the feeling in Soraya’s chest. “If I go with you, Dad won’t come!”

How could her daughter, the one she carried in her womb for nearly ten months and raised for six years, choose another woman over her?

Soraya had already accepted that her husband would never love her, but what about her daughter? Why had she become so distant from her?

Clenching her jaw, Soraya blamed it all on her husband, Calum Montclair. He was the one who introduced Sage to his “girlfriend.” He sent Soraya across the world under the guise of a business trip, allowing her daughter to bond with his mistress.

Back then, he said, “I need you to close a deal in Singapore.”

When she returned four months ago, Soraya learned about Rose and her growing relationship with her husband and daughter.

A tear rolled down Soraya’s face. She approached her daughter and knelt before her. She asked, “Sage, Baby… don’t you love Mommy anymore?”

Sage tried to open her mouth but instead snapped her head in the other direction, her arms folded against her chest. “I just want to spend more time with Aunt Rose.”

Soraya got up and gave Sage her back. She took deep breaths as she placed her hands on her hips. After gathering her composure, she said, “Okay. If that’s what makes you happy… but you must promise to spend time with me tomorrow.”

She wiped the tears that flooded her face and turned to her daughter. “It’s your special day, and we always spend it together, remember?”

Her daughter instantly looked guilty. She opened her mouth, about to say something, but instead gulped. “Okay, Mommy. I’m sorry.”

‘At least she still remembers,’ Soraya thought.

She checked the time, and seeing it was almost nine, she said, “Let’s go. You’re going to be late.”

While heading out, she called her husband, Calum. At first, he hung up the phone. He often did. To Calum, Soraya had never been an equal partner.

She had to text him the exact reason for her call: [Sage doesn’t want to come with me to the parent-teacher activity. She wants Rose.]

When Soraya and Sage reached the car, her husband replied: [Rose and I will be at school. Bring Sage over.]

The drive to Evermoor Academy was long and agonizing. It took everything in Soraya not to break down and cry. Now and then, she would glance at the rearview mirror, hoping to get a reaction from her daughter—anything.

But Sage avoided her gaze the entire time. It was as if the daughter she raised was now a stranger.

When they arrived at the school, Soraya waited. After half an hour, Calum’s Bentley finally pulled over in front of her. He stepped out of the car in his custom-made suit, his tall frame and chiseled features ever so defined. Then, he walked over to the other side and opened the passenger door.

He helped Rose out of the vehicle, his hand gently wrapped around hers.

Wearing a tailored red business dress, Rose carried herself with the quiet confidence of a seasoned professional. Her elegantly wavy blonde hair and expensive jewelry made her look exceptionally sophisticated.

Everyone outside the school gates turned to Calum and Rose with awe. Soraya could tell that they all thought they made a great couple.

‘Perhaps they do make a great couple,’ Soraya thought. After all, Calum, the CEO of the Montclair Group and the wealthiest man in Cedar Heights, was the one who had transformed their family business into a thriving empire. Rose Becket was said to be a gifted entrepreneur, having started a fashion line immediately after her doctoral degree.

“Aunt Rose!” Sage excitedly got out of the car.

Soraya had to rush out and chase after her daughter to ensure Sage’s safety. She thought she had prepared herself for whatever heartbreak she would witness, but she was dead wrong.

She saw Sage leap into Rose’s arms. The two were happy to be together as if they were truly mother and daughter. And as for Calum, he had that gentle smile on his face, an affection he never once gave Soraya.

Soraya’s knees nearly gave way. Her heart was aching so much that she felt like she could die at any minute.

In their “happy family,” Soraya was the outsider. She was the villain in their eyes, especially Calum.

After standing there like a fool for almost a minute, she finally caught Calum’s cold stare. He said indifferently, “You can go now.”

Soraya hesitated. She directed her gaze to Sage, asking, “Sage, tomorrow. You promised.”

Sage did not say anything. She just nodded.

Meanwhile, Soraya caught the triumphant look on Rose’s face. It angered her to the core. The confidence in this woman, who dared get involved with a married man, was just too much!

The trio did not stay any longer. They entered the school grounds with smiles on their faces.

Just as she was about to turn to her car, Sage’s teacher, Miss Gale, bumped into her.

“Mrs. Montclair! I’m sorry,” Miss Gale said with a smile. “I’m glad to see you. Are you attending today’s activity?”

The teacher frowned and shared, “Lately, another woman and Mr. Montclair have been picking up Sage from school. I—I wonder if—”

“I know,” Soraya responded bitterly. “It’s fine. It is what it is.”

“I’m—I’m sorry.” Miss Gale caught up quickly. She grieved for Soraya, on the verge of tears. If anyone, this teacher had witnessed all of Soraya’s sacrifices for Sage in school.

When Sage got hurt or sick while in school, Soraya always came to her daughter’s aid. Soraya attended most school activities without Calum.

“Don’t take it to heart, Mrs. Montclair. Sage... she—she doesn’t understand yet,” Miss Gale tried to comfort her, but honestly, it did not help.

The heaviness in Soraya’s chest continued to weigh down on her even as she prepared for Sage’s birthday celebration at home. She baked a cake and prepared special dishes that Sage would love to eat. After prepping for tomorrow, she went to the bedroom to rest.

Soraya had taken a week off from work, hoping to spend time with her daughter.

She deserved it.

Four years ago, under the pressure of Cedric and Amanda Montclair, Calum’s parents, Soraya quit her high-paying job to work for her husband as part of his support staff. The Montclair couple wanted her to work harder and win their son’s love. But the love Soraya longed for never came. Instead, Calum’s hate for her grew stronger.

Soraya had come to terms with the fact that Calum would never love her. The only reason she remained in their marriage was because of Sage, but even now, her daughter was slipping away.

“No,” Soraya muttered as she lay herself on the bed. “Sage will come back to me. I’m her mom. She loves me.”

She was emotionally exhausted and soon drifted to sleep.

When Soraya woke up, it was already late at night. She frowned, turning to the other side of the bed, finding it empty. She walked out of the master bedroom, calling the maid, “Belinda? Have Calum and Sage arrived?”

“Belinda?” she called again.

It took a while for the maid to come upstairs and address Soraya. The latter said, “Mrs. Montclair, Mr. Montclair, and the young miss have not arrived yet.”

A sense of panic washed over her. Soraya called her husband, but Calum dropped the call. She texted him, but he didn’t answer.

Knowing that her daughter brought her tablet, Soraya texted Sage through a messaging app. It was always how they communicated when they were apart. She waited until two check marks appeared, suggesting her daughter had seen the message.

Soraya sent another text: [Hi, Baby. Where are you? Don’t forget, we will spend time together on your birthday.]

Again, two check marks appeared.

Soraya’s fingers trembled as she stared at the screen.

The message had been seen, but the silence that followed cut deeper than betrayal.

Her daughter was slipping away, and she couldn’t stop it.

Chapter 2: Not Invited 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 widened in 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 like it was 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,” her Aunt Rose said after closing the book.

“Aunt Rose, your house 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 did not 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. She hugged Sage. “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. She said, “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.

She said, “Sage is asleep.”

“Good,” Calum simply said, his fingers still working on the keyboard.

“I think I have 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 Rose. “Hmmm. You did well.”

Rose kissed Calum, and in the next few minutes, the 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

The next day.

It was supposed to be a day of celebration, but at home, there was no knock, no ring, and no laughter in the dining hall. There was simply silence and food that had gone cold.

Soraya checked the time. It was seven in the evening. The candles were ready, and her gifts were stacked neatly. But still, Sage and Calum had not returned.

‘Where were they?’

‘Where had they slept overnight?’

‘Did Sage even think about me?’

‘Is this my fault?’

‘Am I not enough?’

Soraya had so many questions.

She looked pitiful while sitting before the chocolate cake she had made for her princess. Again, she tried to call Calum, but just as before, he did not answer.

Tears welled in her eyes as she scoffed bitterly. Turning to the maid, she asked, “Belinda, am I a bad mother?”

“No, Mrs. Montclair. You have always loved Sage. Please don’t blame her. Sage is still young,” Belinda said, teary-eyed in her presence.

“I need to… get some fresh air,” Soraya said, her beautiful face completely worn out.

She drove around town for almost an hour. Then, she pulled over at Butter & Crumb, one of Sage’s favorite cafés. The store had the best ice cream. Soraya remembered many afternoons spent with her daughter in this café.

She felt like she needed to be a kid again and eat a gallon of the best ice cream in town.

The Butter & Crumb café was a huge establishment. Aside from the main café, it had an outdoor area designated for special events.

Soraya had paid for her ice cream when she overheard the joyous singing in the garden area.

It was someone’s birthday.

“Happy Birthday to you!”

“Happy Birthday to you!”

“Happy Birthday, happy birthday, happy birthday, dear Sage. Happy birthday to you!”

Immediately, Soraya’s heart stopped. Her feet dragged her to the outdoor area of the café. What she saw made her face pale, her dignity washed away.

Balloons floated lazily in the breeze. Laughter danced like music across the garden.

And in the center of it all was Sage, in someone else’s arms.

To others, it was a beautiful scene. 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 also like Aunt Rose. She is smart and pretty. She dresses really nice and wears nice jewelry!”

“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. As for Calum’s parents, Soraya knew they never approved of Rose. After all, she was a mistress.

Soraya could not accept it.

The gallon of ice cream fell on the floor. She froze, feeling like she wanted to die.

She wanted to cry and walk in and scream! But something far worse inside her shattered.

Something deep and profound, something that could never fully mend.

Her eyes narrowed, and her heart turned cold.

Soraya knew now what she must do.

She turned on her heel, seething. Just as she exited the café, 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?”

“Do you think I’m the evil one here? 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 face burned with anger. “Fine, 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. Just like that, she left.

Soraya returned home and packed up her things. Then, she called her Uncle Philip.

“Uncle,” Soraya said.

“Soraya? What’s wrong? You sound sick,” her uncle said. “Please don’t tell me it’s Calum.”

“Uncle? Can I stay with you? I want to divorce Calum,” Soraya said. “I’m tired. I don’t want to do this anymore.”

Her uncle’s family had long moved to Belridge. Only Soraya remained in Cedar Heights to stay with Calum and Sage. She needed to be away fast, somewhere she felt she belonged.

“And… Soraya, what about Sage?” her uncle asked.

Soraya thought about it and said, “Sage… she—she doesn’t need me anymore.”

Chapter 3: Choose Herself 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, sleek caramel 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 that useless person Calum’s friends had labeled her to be.

Soraya had stayed with her uncle for the past few days. 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.

In fact, since their marriage, Calum had sent her no more than fifty messages. They were either purely business or matters related to Sage.

They did not celebrate their anniversary. Calum never came to her birthday celebration, and unless the party was held at the Montclair mansion, Soraya was never invited to his birthday party.

Sage, however, had sent Soraya two messages on the chat app, but she chose not to read them. Soraya was afraid of giving in, afraid of being rejected once again, and afraid of falling into the trap she had been under for the past seven years.

**

On a Thursday, Soraya sat at her desk, her laptop open, screens glowing with charts, notes, and color-coded plans. She had made a schedule and was sticking to it. Everything had its place: the market data on the left, a checklist of tasks in the center, and a list of safe, quiet apartments on the right. After the divorce, she needed a new home and a new routine.

On her priority list was a visit to Aegis Core Systems and to meet an old friend.

Just as she was planning her life, she received a text from her college best friend, Lyra Hayes.

Lyra: [Soraya! What the fuck is going on?]

Then, Lyra sent a picture of Calum. He was impeccably dressed, with Rose clinging to his arm. Rose was smiling at Calum, her gaze flirtatious.

Lyra: [I’m attending the mayor’s birthday party, and I overheard some people say this woman is Calum’s girlfriend!]

For a moment, Soraya struggled to breathe. Her hands shook as she looked at the image.

She wanted to cry, but instead, she returned to her computer and stared at her outlined plans.

‘Breathe,’ she told herself. You have already made your decision.

Soraya closed her eyes and counted numbers, regaining control of her emotions once more. “...Four, three, two, one.”

She took deep breaths and reset the logic.

When she opened her eyes, she returned to her phone.

Lyra: [Talk to me right now! Or I’m storming in and slapping that woman’s face!]

Soraya quickly called her friend. “Don’t do that. You know Calum has a lot of power in the city. He could cause problems for your family’s business. It’s not worth it, Lyra.”

“But—”

“I’m divorcing him, Lyra. I can’t take it anymore,” Soraya revealed.

She could hear her friend’s struggle to accept things. Lyra was on the verge of tears. “But you love him so much.”

“I have reached my limit. I want to work on myself,” Soraya said softly.

“Okay. Okay. You know what? You are right. You should have left that asshole a long time ago!” Lyra went on but then paused. “But what about Sage?”

Her friend finally remembered why Soraya held on so long.

“Sage? She needs a mother that she can be proud of,” Soraya said. “I need time to be that person for her.”

Lyra had been away, working in another city. Soraya did not even know when she came back to Cedar Heights. Thus, it did not come as a surprise that Lyra was unaware of Rose, the new woman in Calum’s life.

She told her friend everything, including Sage’s newfound affection for Rose. At the end of her narrative, Lyra said while weeping, “I wish I were there for you. I will hug you forever!”

“Me too.” This time, Soraya allowed herself to shed a tear. “But we can catch up next week. I will collect that hug. Let’s see how forever lasts for you.”

When Lyra laughed, Soraya found herself smiling for the first time in months.

“We should have a reunion—you, me, and Silas,” Lyra proposed, mentioning a common friend.

“That’s on my priority list. I’ll give you a call when I’m back at Cedar Heights,” Soraya said before finally ending their conversation.

Soraya returned to reviewing her solid plan. According to her timeline, her goals would unfold over the next two to three years.

Little did she know that the moment she set her plans in motion, opportunities would come knocking faster and louder than she ever anticipated.

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 Bentley 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, so much that counting numbers no longer worked.

Soraya hugged herself tightly 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.

During their entire marriage, Calum never drove Soraya to work, not even after she started working for him. The only times they shared a car were when they visited the Montclairs at the old mansion.

So, apparently, Calum did have a romantic side. However, he never cared for Soraya.

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 off in the same direction.

At Montclair Group, she headed straight to Calum’s executive assistant.

Greg Foster greeted her, “Miss Azar. Good morning. Welcome back.”

Yes, Soraya still went with her maiden name, Azar. In public, Calum had never acknowledged her as his wife. Everyone thought he was single, and Rose Becket was his girlfriend. Only a few knew that, in reality, Calum was married and that Rose was a mistress.

Greg Foster, for one, knew Soraya and Calum were married.

“Good morning, Mr. Foster,” Soraya responded to Greg, her face neutral, trying to cage all her feelings. She gave him a set of documents and said, “I would like to tender my resignation effective immediately. And the second document is a divorce agreement for Mr. Montclair. I know he will not want to see me, but will you please pass this to him?”

The shock on Greg’s face was evident. His eyes rounded, and his mouth fell open. Obviously, he could not believe that Soraya had finally given up. “Are—are you sure?”

Soraya held her chin high, saying, “I have never been more surer in my life. I hope you can manage my unplanned departure. I can’t stay here a day longer.”

Greg seemed to understand her sentiment. It reflected in his eyes.

Soraya had a good relationship with Calum’s executive assistant. In fact, Greg had often tried to speak positively about her to Calum. But in her husband’s eyes, she was just there to get his attention. Not once did Calum ask about her work, what she did, or how well she performed.

Greg looked around, and with a nod, he said, “We have enough people.”

“Good luck, Miss Azar. I wish you all the best,” Greg said, forcing a smile. “It won’t be the same without you. I’ve never met anyone so meticulous and laser-focused. Thank you for everything. You’ll do great in whatever you pursue.”

“Then,” Soraya gave a faint smile, “I’ll clear my desk. I thank you for everything you have done for me.”

After Montclair Group, she drove straight to Aegis Core Systems. If she needed a fresh start, she would require a lot of money.

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 Wednesday 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 was an accelerated student. She skipped four grade levels, earned her high school diploma at fourteen, and completed her college degree by 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 acknowledgment 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 looked up and said, “Is Soraya back? Tell her to stop her theatrics and work on the East Project.”

Greg gulped. He presented a set of papers on Calum’s desk and said, “Mr. Montclair, sir? Your wife wishes to resign immediately and is requesting a divorce.”

Calum stilled.

His brows knitted as he looked up. A look of disbelief crossed his face.

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.

He hadn’t planned to read the letter. But when his gaze caught Sage’s name, he reluctantly went through it.

[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]

Calum went through the divorce agreement next and 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 the last slice of chocolate cake Soraya had baked for her. That night of her birthday, Calum discovered Soraya was at the Butter & Crumb.

They left the celebration soon after that. When they had arrived home, they found the cake and several gifts that Soraya had prepared.

Sage felt guilty about leaving her mother out of the party, but it was her decision to exclude Soraya, favoring Rose.

“Mom’s cake is really the best,” Sage said with a smile.

“Of course, Sage,” Belinda, the maid, said. “Your mommy prepared the best ingredients. She made this cake with love—for you.”

When Sage’s gaze landed on Calum, she ran to him. “Daddy, you are home early!”

Then, Sage looked behind him, asking, “Is… Is Mommy back?”

“No,” Calum replied plainly. “Your mommy may not come here 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. Maybe for a month or two?” 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.

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>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

You stand frozen outside Butter & Crumb café, the laughter from within slicing through you like glass. Inside, balloons float above a cake you recognize—chocolate, Sage’s favorite. But it’s not your hands that lit the candles. It’s Rose’s. Calum claps, smiling at his daughter in a way he never smiled at you. You watch as they blow out the candles together, a perfect family that erased you without a second thought.

You turn to leave, but Jacob Steel blocks your path. 'Don’t cause any trouble. It’s Sage’s birthday,' he warns, his voice cold.

Something snaps. 'Cause trouble? Me?' you retort, tears burning your eyes. 'I’m the one who stayed up with Sage when she had pneumonia. I’m the one who attended every school play while Calum was 'working.' I gave up my career, my youth, my self—for what? To be replaced by a woman who wears better jewelry?'

Jacob’s expression shifts—just slightly. Not pity. Something worse: realization.

Back at your uncle’s house, you pack your last bag. Your phone buzzes. Two messages from Sage. Unread. You close your eyes. This isn’t the end. It’s the first day of your comeback.