Unmatched Love by Mary Nixon (4)

"I will send a chauffeur to bring you to me." He said as he kissed my forehead. "I have to go meet someone. See you later my love."

I watched him leaving and I felt a strange sense of serenity running through me. All the pain I had felt suddenly became easier to bear.

James Lyons's POV

"I swear you are the most random man I know. You give me a heads up only a few hours to your master plan?" Jacob complained as we waited for the jeweller.

He gazed at Keira as she slept soundly in his arms.

"I can't wait for my twins to be born. I am so curious about who they will resemble." Jacob said with a smile on his face.

He was having twins. I envied him. He leaned down and kissed her lips softly. Keira's sapphire eyes opened slowly as she smiled at Jacob. His hand was rubbing her belly gently.

"Two months to go mia amore." He said to her.

"I can't wait." She said with a smile.

Watching these two made me want to fix things with Bianca. She didn't know it yet but today I would make her mine. I loved Bianca with a fire that could burn down the world. My misplaced affection for Keira was simply based on the fact that she was pregnant... two years back Bianca had been pregnant too. When I look at her I imagine Bianca and I would have been parents by now.

"Mr. Bellingerre, Mr. Bale," the jeweller piped up excitedly.

He held out a small velvet pillow

with a ring on it... It was platinum with an asscher cut diamond stone. The ring looked divine. I carefully picked it as Keira smiled at me.

"Oww!" She said softly as tears welled up in her eyes. "You're proposing aren't you?"

"I am. I want to do it tonight and I need your help."

She smiled deviously.

"I am at your every command Tony. What do you need me to do?"

***

Keira's POV

Bianca was such a lucky girl. I wish I was as lucky as she was. When Jacob insisted that I accompany him to London, I was unsure. I was worried about travelling when I was already seven months along. I felt heavier than ever but I was happy that it was for a good cause.

I walked into Bianca's shop and found her reading through a bunch of receipts.

She saw me and looked up, a smile on her pretty face.

"Keira, what are you doing here?"

"I followed Jacob here. He says he is in London to see Tony. Do you know where I can find them?"

"Have you checked the office?"

"I don't know my way around London. Can you take me?"

She nodded.

Bianca's POV

Seeing Keira as large as she was in London scared me. She was struggling to walk and I could see how tired she seemed. Why would she follow Jacob to London?

"Why have you followed Jacob to London?"

"Because we had a spat and I want to fix things before Jacob and Keira junior come along."

"Wait! I thought you were having a son?"

"And a

daughter. I'm so excited."

She was having twins... I envied her.

"That's great. Let's go." I said in an effort not to make that moment awkward.

I stood up and pulled her up from the seat. She laughed at herself and we began walking slowly towards my Porsche. I helped her in and I followed. I drove to the Bellingerre Consolidated building.

"How are you Bianca?" She asked.

"I'm okay."

"I'm sorry about your baby."

"It's okay. I'm just happy Tony and I are on the same page."

But in reality, my heart was still bleeding over my loss.

"Do you love Tony?" She asked as I helped her out of the car.

I looked into her eyes and felt she was hiding something but I didn't want to bother her about it.

"Of course I do."

"Why aren't you two married by now?" She asked. "Hasn't it been four years already?"

"You have done your research haven't you?" I asked her with a smile.

"Jacob told me. Don't you want to be his wife?"

His wife. Two years ago I had been unwilling to commit. Now I wanted commitment more than my own life.

"I would love to be his wife."

"I would love to be Jacob's wife as well. If Tony asked you to marry him, would you accept?"

Keira was asking weird questions.

"In a heartbeat. Would you accept Jacob's proposal if he asked?"

Tony had mentioned that Jacob had shown him an engagement ring he had purchased for Keira. This girl didn't know it yet but her wish would come true sooner han she expected.

"In a heartbeat."

We giggled like teen girls as we made our way up the elevator. On reaching Tony's office, we met his P.A. She handed me a crisp white envelope and smiled as she left hurriedly.

I opened it and pulled out a white card with Tony's handwriting.

"Dearest Bianca, when I first met you I knew you would own my heart... I love you."

I smiled to myself and showed the note to Keira. She smiled too and started looking around.

"Are they here?" She asked.

"I don't think so. It's awfully quiet for a Friday afternoon."

Keira pulled out her phone and texted someone.

Keira's POV

I was dying to tell Bianca what was happening but I had to keep my mouth sealed.

Me: It's on... she said she would accept your proposal in a heartbeat. Where to next?

Tony: Brilliant!!! My hotel. Ask my P.A where I could be.

Me: Okay.

Tony: Don't tell her Keira. Keep it a secret.

Me: I promise.

I turned to Bianca who was still smiling to herself.

Bianca's POV

"What if we ask his P.A where they could be?" Keira asked.

"Good thought."

I spotted Sara walking our way and I stopped her. She seemed awfully excited. Maybe it was because of the weekend which was just a few hours away.

"Have you seen Tony and Jacob?" I asked her.

"Yes, a few minutes ago actually. They left for Tony's hotel. I think you can find them there."

I thanked her and off again we went.

We got to the hotel and the concierge opened the doors

for us. I walked up to the receptionist and greeted her. She smiled when she saw me.

"How can I help you Miss Bianca?"

"My friend and I are looking for Tony and Jacob. Have you seen them?"

She reached for something underneath her desk.

Another white envelope.

"I have but they left for his penthouse."

I took the envelope and opened it.

"My dearest Bianca, you are the only woman who has ever owned my heart and I will be privileged if you allow me to own your heart as well. I love you."

I smiled to myself. The handwritten note got me giddy. I turned to see a smiling Keira. For a woman who had a fight with her baby's father, she seemed fine.

"I really need to find Jacob." She piped up.

"Of course. To Tony's penthouse we go."

I walked to the exit with her close behind. Why was Tony leaving me random notes? How did he even know where I would get them? Did she know something I didn't?

Once we were in the car, I asked her.

"What's going on?"

"Nothing." She said defensively. "Other than the fact that Jacob's babies are kicking me like crazy!"

I knew the feeling.

I focused on my driving. Whatever Keira knew, she was not spilling.

I pulled up in front of the building housing Tony's penthouse. The valet took my car and the concierge allowed us in. He handed me the key to the penthouse and we rode up the elevator in silence.

Once we were in Tony's penthouse, it felt silent and abandoned. Those two men weren't here although Tony's cologne lingered in the air. On the console table, there was an envelope along with a lot of

red rose stems.

"My dearest Bianca, I know that entrusting your heart to me is a huge step but I was and I am hoping that you can take the leap of faith with me. I love you.

PS: Count the rose stems for me. Jacob ordered them for Keira but I accidentally unwrapped the bow. Can you tie them up when you're done and hold them for Jacob? He wants to give them personally to her.

I gazed at Keira who had sank into the couch. Poor thing was tired. I counted the stems one by one and they totalled fourty two... fourty two... !!!

Fourty two red roses presented to a woman was a silent way of asking 'will you marry me." Was Jacob finally proposing? Is this why he had sent Keira on a wild goose chase and using me to cover up?

I tied them up and walked her way helping her up. She gazed at the roses and smiled.

Keira's POV

Bianca had no idea that Tony had purchased the roses and they were in fact for her and not me as he had claimed. I was just waiting to see her face when she realized I was not the one getting proposed to but her.

I quickly stood up and faced her pulling out my phone for the next clue.

Me: Flowers all tied up... where to?

Tony: Is she catching on?

Me: No. She thinks I'm getting proposed to.

Tony: Good. Call Jacob for where to go to next.

Me: You owe me.

Tony: I know pretty face. I owe you big time.

Bianca's POV

Keira was finishing

her text when she turned to face me.

"I was thinking I will just call Jacob and ask him where he is."

"Good idea."

She called him and in a few seconds I heard Jacob's deep voice on the other end.

"Where are you?" Keira got to the point. "Okay, on our way."

She hang up and faced me.

"Jacob is with Tony at the Bellingerre Manor. Do you know where it is?"

"I do. Let's go?"

She nodded and we embarked on our short journey there. It was at sunset when we go there. As we entered the massive home with the roses still in my hands, Keira started texting again. She smiled to herself and looked up at me.

"Please point me to the bathroom." She said to me.

"Take that hallway on your left. I'll wait for you here."

"No need. Jacob and Tony are at the back. Go on ahead I'll catch up." She said and went her way.

I started walking and that is when I saw the patio doors wide open. The garden was lit up making the place look like it came out of a mystical garden. I kept walking staying on the path until I reached the pool side. There were set up tables with lit candles.

Was Tony having guests over?

I came across a white envelope placed down on the pavement.

I opened it and then smiled as I read it.

"Dearest Bianca, I want to ask you something... something that will determine where we go from here... I have left you four notes and my question is at the back of the notes."

I lay the roses down on the pavement and pulled out the four notes from my bag. I laid them out on the pavement in the order I had received them.

The first one read will. The second read you. The third read marry. And the fourth read me?

I read them again this time continuously as a smile grew on my face.

Will you marry me?

Before I could react I heard footsteps behind me and I turned to see Tony walking my way. He looked sharp in his black suit but was not wearing a tie. He wore a heart throbbing smile on his face.

He reached for me and helped me to stand up to my feet. He then picked up the bouquet and handed it to me.

"Those are for you love. Fourty two roses to ask for your hand in marriage."

James Lyons's POV

"Those are for you love. Fourty two roses to ask your hand in marriage."

She teared up as I got down on one knee holding out the ring to her.

"Bea Bianca Buchanan. Will you give me the honor of being the only woman I will ever love? Will you give me the honor of being your husband? Will you marry me?"

She was surprised.

I was nervous.

What if Keira misread her and she turned me down?

Wayne Bellingerre's POV

We were all by the living room window following the spectacle outside. Tony had called on his friends to come over and show some support. Jacob, Keira, Bruce and Ferrer had not disappointed. Cheryl was also present. Erma Bale was

also there obviously more excited than the soon to be bride.

I don't know how we all fit by the bay window while peeping but we did.

I never imagined in a thousand years that my son would ever propose. I thought he had inherited the bad Bellingerre habit of bachelor hood till the end of time. No man in our bloodline for generations ever married. James Lyons was the first one. I was proud of him.

"What if she says no?" Cheryl asked.

"She won't." Keira said. "She loves him and she will say yes."

"If she says no, Bruce and I have a plan." Jacob announced.

"What plan?" I asked so that I would not be sidetracked.

Jacob became a little serious.

"We are kidnapping her and taking her to an abandoned island where she will be alone with Tony eternally until she agrees to a wedding."

"You guys are such brutes!" Keira shot out at Jacob.

"That's why women can't resist us!" Bruce joked and we all laughed.

Our focus shifted back outside as Bianca jumped up and down excitedly.

It was done.

James Lyons's POV

Bianca's surprised face faded into a bright smile as she began jumping up and down like a little girl.

"Yes Tony I will. I will. I will marry you. I will!"

Those words were music to my ears as I slipped the ring onto her finger. I stood up and lifted her into my arms. I span her around before crushing my lips onto hers.

She was mine... all mine.

My partners in crime soon joined us and when Bianca saw them tears filled her eyes.

"You were all in on it?" She asked. "Even you Keira?"

"I was dying to tell you trust me but I wanted it to be a surprise. Congratulations."

She hugged her as Jacob gave me a hug and held my head in his hands pressing his forehead against mine.

"I'm very proud of you little brother. I'm proud of you."

"I can't believe I have to share you now!" Cheryl joked as she kissed my cheek and hugged Bianca. "I told you everything will be okay love."

She looked at Bianca knowingly and she just smiled.

She gave way to my mother, Erma Bale who hugged me tightly.

"My baby boy!" She exclaimed in an Italian accent. "I am so proud of you! Nonno is proud of you too but he couldn't make it, he is unwell. Congratulations. I need a wedding date and your consent to plan the wedding."

That was Erma for you. She had the wedding planned already I am sure.

"Of course mom, go ahead." I agreed as I kissed her cheek.

My father was next in line after Erma went to give Jacob and Keira an earful about how I was getting married while they just stared at each other. My father gripped my shoulder and pulled Bianca towards him. A waiter stepped forward with a tray of champagne glasses. Everyone picked except for Keira whom Jacob handed a juice box. She frowned and elbowed him.

"Ladies and gentlemen." My father began. "I never thought this day would come. Lyons, Bianca... this is as legitimate as a wedding to me. I am proud of you both. To your eternal happiness!"

I gazed at the woman beside me and pulled her close to me.

"I will love you to the end of times." I told her.

"And I will love you until time stands still." She whispered and we exchanged a kiss as the people around us faded and it was just us two...

=================

Chapter thirty one: Abducted

Four months later

James Lyons's POV

"We should move to Italy. We are always here!" Bianca said with a short laugh.

We were engaged and happy. Nothing could top what we were feeling. We were both excited.

Jacob had proposed and we had agreed he and Keira would get married first then Bianca and I would follow.

We were in Italy because I had also thought of moving. Keira and Bianca had become so close and Jacob and I had decided not to separate them.

I was meeting Erma because she wanted a proper introduction to my fiancée. We had been waiting in the restaurant for a while but for some reason, she was taking forever.

"I'm considering it. There is a villa up for sale near the ocean. It's not too far from Keira and Jacob."

"When can we move in?" She asked excitedly.

"As soon as I buy it."

"You know that I can chip in, right?" She asked.

I never liked talking money with Bianca. I preferred to be her provider in every aspect. That's how Erma raised Jacob and I. She taught us to be responsible, she taught us to be accountable and she taught us that a responsible man will provide for his woman whether it be necessities or luxuries whether she asks it or not.

Sure Bianca had her own money but I didn't see reason for her to spend it if I had more than enough for us both.

"Don't worry love, I got it."

"Tony-"

"I got it."

I spoke slowly hoping to reassure her it was okay.

We remained in comfortable silence as we ate our dinner.

I still wandered what was taking Erma so long. I decide to give Jacob a call and he invited us over to the villa.

"Looks like we will go to her instead. Come on." I stood up pulling her seat out once we were done with dinner.

Bianca insisted on handling the cheque so I let her.

Afterwards, we wound up making out in the parking lot. I was never afraid to give public displays of affection. I enjoyed it, although it made Bianca uneasy and she blushed all through.

I heard someone clear their throat and I turned to see Keira. She was looking a little confused.

"Want to join love?" I teased.

Bianca gave me a sharp jab to my side and I kept silent.

"Are you okay? You look upset." Bianca pointed out.

"I had a fig... fight with Jacob. I'm pissed. Tony can you get me some ice cream to go? Pistachio and chocolate." She ordered.

I cupped her face and looked into her torrid sapphire eyes.

"How did you get here? Bianca and I were just headed to your place. Let's go back and the four of us can talk it out."

"I stepped out for a drive. Can you go get me ice cream already?" She demanded impatiently.

Whatever it was that was bothering her, ice cream was not going to cure it. I looked over her shoulder and saw Jacob's Murciélago parked not far from her.

"Jacob let his nine months

pregnant bride to be drive his Lambo?" I asked Keira in disbelief.

Jacob was protective and there was no way he would have signed off on Keira driving his beast of a car.

"Not exactly. Can you get me the damn ice cream so that we can go already?"

"I'll get the ice cream." Bianca offered.

"No!" Keira suddenly blurted out. "I have some girl issues I want to ask you about. Tony please."

"Keira, you don't seem okay to me. There is more to this than Jacob." I made sure to point out before I left to get the ice cream.

Bianca's POV

Once Tony had left, I turned to the very troubled woman standing beside me.

I had never seen her so uneasy before. Keira had always had a calm aura about her. This was all strange. Before I could open my mouth to ask what was going on, a man approached us.

"Listen blondie, you will get into the car with me and we will drive off. Give me your bag."

I stared at his tattooed hands and the ponytailed hair. Fear rushed through me and instantly went into defensive mode.

"Go to hell!" I cursed him and tried to yank Keira's hand so that we could run but she didn't budge. "What the bloody hell Keira! Let's go!"

"They will kill her." She said in a small terrified voice.

"Who?" I asked with my eyes still on the man who was not making a single move.

"Madeline. Please they'll kill Jacob's daughter, they'll kill her."

Where was Tony when you needed him?

"One scream blondie and Madeline is dead. Remember your boyfriend's Agera? I did that to him. I don't bluff. Get into the damn Porsche and let's go!" He ordered before turning to face Keira. "I'm trusting you to drive the Lambo. Don't you dare do anything funny or your friend will bleed. You daughter will die."

I was frozen as he grabbed me and forced me into the driver's seat of the silver Porsche; a car I had bought for myself after saving for countless months.

Now it was getting stolen and I had no idea when I would afford another unlike Tony who replaced his Agera a month after it disappeared.

"Drive!" He ordered me.

I obeyed and slowly reversed the car. I drove past Keira and she gazed at me apologetically. With all honesty she was the one I was worried for. She was almost due, just a week or so and she would give birth to her twins.

"What do you hope to accomplish by doing this?" I asked.

"I intend to be a billionaire like your boyfriend." He said sarcastically. "Less talking more driving."

"Tony will get you for

this and Jacob will destroy you for abducting his pregnant fiancée."

"I'm so scared." He feigned fear. " Slow down at the interjection."

Tony's POV

I got to the villa half an hour after I hadn't found either Bianca or Keira in the parking lot.

"I can't find Bianca. I went to get Keira ice cream and when I got back they were gone. She was driving your Murciélago." I spoke frantically.

Jacob stared at me for a long time as if he was trying to digest what I had just said.

"Tony I'm so sorry." He apologized. "This is my fault, I shouldn't have treated her so badly. She would still be here and so would Madeline and Bianca."

"What's going on? Madeline is gone to?"

Jacob explained to me what had happened and I stood there more puzzled than Mariann who was as white as snow.

"They've been abducted?" I asked but before Jacob could answer, Erma fell back and I caught he'd just in time.

"Take her upstairs." Jacob instructed me and I did so all along wondering if the girls were okay.

Once I had taken her to her bedroom, I went back downstairs to find the living room packed with police officers. One of them was questioning Jacob.

"What was she wearing?" The detective asked.

I could see Jacob racking through his thoughts struggling to recall what his fiancée had been wearing. He probably didn't even remember.

When he knocked over a vase, I interjected to end his frustration.

"A black dress with red sandals."

Jacob wasn't pleased but truth was, he needed the help.

"And your fiancée signor? Anything

you can tell us about her?'

"She's about five six in height, blonde hair, green eyes and was wearing a dark blue dress. She was driving a silver Porsche Carrera GT. I have her photo right here." I handed him a passport size photo of Bianca.

"Where's Bruce?" Jacob demanded.

I stepped outside to call him again. He was not far from us. Bruce was ex military. When it came to finding people, no one was better at it than him.

"En route." He told me once he answered. "I'm ten minutes out."

"Hurry up. We're losing our minds over here." I urged him.

"Sure. I'll be there soon but I'm tracking Jacob's Lambos right now. You guys sit put. We'll find the girls."

"Thank you."

When I hinged up, I took a deep breath. Bianca was more than capable of handling herself. Keira on on the other hand was almost due. Jacob was losing it and I could hear him and Erma arguing in Italian.

"Hold on Bianca, I'm coming. I'm going to find you." I whispered to myself before going back inside.

The sight that caught me was shocking. Nonno was on the floor almost breathless and Erma was kneeling beside him.

"Call an ambulance!" Nock asked as he watched his grandfather in horror.

"Papa please wake up, per favore papa! Per favore don't die on me, wake up papa!" Erma begged with tears soaking her cheeks.

Bloody hell!

What the hell was all this for?

Bianca's POV

/>I was chained to the wall staring at Keira falling apart and Madeline crying her lungs out for her father.

Where were they? Didn't they know we had been abducted?

I noticed the two brutes in charge of watching us tormenting Jacob's daughter.

"Leave her alone!" I yelled from where I was standing.

I should have been scared but I wasn't.

"You feel left out blondie?" One of them asked.

"Do you have a bloody fetish for terrorizing women you bloody coward?"

He walked up to me and slapped me really hard before slamming me against the wall.

"Hasn't your man ever taught you to shut that hole on your face?" He asked.

"My man hits like a man. You hit like a bloody girl! Madeline can hit harder than you!" I intentionally decided to piss him off.

He hit me again and this time tears stung my eyes as I yanked at the chain wishing I could free myself and beat the crap out of him.

He must have seen my smug look and he slammed me into the wall repeatedly.

"You'll kill her! Stop it! Stop it!" Keira yelled.

I could feel my consciousness slipping from me as the side of my face bled. A moment longer and I would pass out. I struggled to remain conscious as Keira was brought to the wall beside me.

I knew what those brutes wanted.

"Who wants to go first? Or should we start with the little girl?"

They were unbuckling their pants.

"She's three years old you piece of scum!" I spoke up.

"I'll go first." Keira offered herself.

"No start with me. She's pregnant and I'm not." I interjected. "I have nothing to lose."

I was now scared but I would do anything for Keira. She was my friend... My only friend.

"Will your boss approve of this?" She suddenly spoke. "Blondie here is his favorite. I'm pregnant and I don't think he will let you touch a three year old."

The men looked a little confused.

"Leave them alone!" Their boss ordered as he walked in.

Something about that man gave me the creeps. My blood literally cuddled each time he came near me. He was evil.

"Leave them alone. The cops tracked the cars. We took out the trackers but we should go now!'

The two men scrambled out and he came close to me examining my damaged face. I wanted to spit at him so badly.

He kissed my cheek only increasing my levels of disgust.

"Till next time blondie."

"Screw you!" I yelled spitting at him.

He wiped it off and stared at me. He winked at me and left.

Keira looked stunned. Unlike me she was untied. Her hand settled on her belly and she closed her blue eyes tightly. When she turned to face me, her eyes were red and teary.

"Bianca, I think my water just broke."

I gazed down at the pool of fluid forming at her feet.

"Bloody hell! What bad timing your twins have."

=================

Chapter thirty two: Get out

Tony's POV

The abduction, Keira's emergency surgery after she couldn't push the twins out, Nonno's funeral and Jacob constantly arguing in Italian with Erma.

That is how the entire week had been... Insane.

Every time after Jacob and Erma argued, she would cry her eyes out. It broke my heart that Jacob was being brutal towards his mother after she had lost her father.

Growing up in an Italian household meant I heard every bit of what they argued about as much as I barely spoke the language.

The first time they had argued it was about Jacob being careless with Keira's well being. They had argued over a diary that supposedly belonged to Jacob's first wife. A diary that Jacob caught Keira with and he had been pissed about his fiancée invading his dead wife's privacy. Erma said awful things about Margaux Deveraux. Jacob reacted harshly poking holes into his mom's failed marriage with his father.

The second time was on the morning of the funeral. Jacob had another finger pointing session with his mother. She blamed him for nonno's death and he blamed her for his heart problems.

The third round was about certain secrets Erma was supposedly hiding and Jacob seemed to be restless. Every night I would hear him pacing up and down the hallways. Erma spent time outside the villa smoking away her stress.

The girls were fairly okay. Madeline had gone back to normal. Bianca was pretty banged up but she was coming around. Keira on the other hand was a different story.

She was constantly aloof.

The new born twins would have kept her busy but Jacob had two nannies monitoring them so that Keira wouldn't move a muscle.

I on the other hand had just one thing in my mind. I wanted to get my hands on the piece of scum that had mishandled Bianca. I wanted blood.

I was raging mad.

After a sketch artist had managed to get a good depiction of the man, Bruce had promised to hunt him down before he came after the rest of us.

My hands were itching to hit something or someone. I was desperate for a good brawl to just get all my anger out.

"Will they ever stop?" Bianca asked me.

She was referring to Jacob and Erma.

"They are like two bulls I swear. None of them will bow out, trust me on that."

I had grown up with Jacob long enough to know how stubborn he could be. Erma was also as obstinate as a mule.

"When are we going back to London? We have a wedding to plan." She mentioned with a smile.

I rolled over on top of her and smiled.

Over all the madness, I had been neglecting her needs.

I inched down and took her soft lips into my mouth and kissed her tenderly.

I kept my eyes open watching her furrow her brows at how good it felt.

A few minutes later she was naked with me drinking from her sweet core and her deep moans flooding the bedroom. It wasn't long before we were making sweet deep love.

She was addictive and so sweet I could have gone on eternally if I hadn't suddenly exploded inside her. She followed soon after and I remained on top as we laughed quietly.

"That was brief."

She said with a sad smile. Didn't you enjoy it?"

"I did love bit my mind us a little distant."

I rolled off her and took her to the shower where I pleased her until she couldn't stop screaming my name. My name at the tip of her tongue was music to my ears.

"Bloody hell Tony! Bloody hell that was perfect. That was perfect."

I smiled at her approval and we got dressed soon after.

"Was this your room while you were growing up here?" She asked.

"Yeah."

"Erma must really love you like a son."

"She does and she's the only mother I've ever known. I'm sorry about the madness. The Berlotellis are a hot tempered batch." I apologized.

This was supposed to be a quiet vacation but noe it was a circus.

"Can I tell you something?" Bianca asked.

I propped myself up by my elbows watching her dress.

"Sure."

"If I didn't know either you or Jacob, I would think you were Erma's son and not Jacob."

I chuckled at her observation.

"Don't laugh Tony, I'm serious. You kinda have Erma's eyes and you look alike when you smile. Jacob on the other hand looks nothing like a Berlotelli."

"That's because he's a spitting image of his father. But you won't be the first person to think Erma and I look alike."

She joined me on the bed and I saw a cheeky look in her lovely emerald eyes.

"Talk to me love, I'm listening." I told her.

"Jameselle, Jacob's newborn son, he's going to be a lady killer

when he grows up." She said with a big smile. "He's got Keira's eyes and Jacob's good looks. Who do you think our son would look like?"

My heart throbbed at the thought of my would have been sons. They would have been two years old.

"A little of both of us." I told her. "But if I ever have a daughter, I want her to look like you, exactly like you."

I gave her a brief kiss right before there was a knock on the bedroom door.

Before either of us could react the door swung wide open and Erma stood there her eyes puffy and swollen.

I instinctively stood up and embraced her as she soaked my shoulders with her tears.

"Calm down mom. What's going on?" I asked pulling her away to look at her face.

"I'm done with Jacobolas. He's kicking me out of the villa."

I glanced at my watch. It was almost midnight. Why would he do something so wreck less?

"What happened?"

She went quiet and cupped my face rubbing my cheeks tenderly. She would do that when I was a boy and it was always accompanied by some sort of a reassurance.

"No matter what happens, always remember that I love you the most. Take care of him, he's losing his grip." She told me.

She turned her attention to Bianca and cupped her face as well.

"As for you, I approve of your union with my baby boy. Take care of him and make each other happy. I love you both."

She walked back to me and squeezed my shoulder.

"See you around baby boy. I should leave before Jacob throws me out."

"Where are you going?" I asked her.

"To Rome. I have a penthouse there. Then tomorrow I'll leave for Milan."

"I'll

drive you to the airport. Is your private jet ready?" I asked.

"I usually use nonno's or one of Jacob's but he has locked me out. Don't worry, I can survive in an ordinary air plane." She assured me.

"I can ask my pilot to fly you to Rome." I insisted wondering why Jacob was being an ass.

"No figlio. Trust me when I say you may need to leave soon as well. Its best that your jet should be on stand by."

I suddenly felt a little confused.

"What's going on?" I asked.

"Steer clear of Jacobolas. He's losing his mind. He's very upset with me and I have a strong feeling he will take it out on you. Ti amo figlio."

She was about to walk out the door when I grabbed her hand.

"I'll drive you. I don't want you alone."

*

After spending the entire night at the airport and talking endlessly about random things, I returned back to the villa at nine in the morning.

Erma had cried for most of the evening and I hoped she would be okay despite her being vague about what happened between her and Jacob.

Bianca was still asleep so I went straight towards the office but he was not there. I needed answers. I wanted to know why he had kicked her out so late at night. She may be his mother but it didn't mean u didn't love her just as much.

Like any son who would protect his mom, I needed answers from Jacob.

"Keira." I called out to her as soon as I walked into the nursery.

She placed a finger on her lips as she continued

breast feeding. It was a beautiful sight. I needed to get back on the wagon and give baby making a chance. I badly wanted my own baby.

I watched as she slowly separated Jameselle from her breast and placed him in his cot.

I looked away from her exposed chest until she poked my shoulder.

"Are you descent?" I asked before turning.

"Sure. Let's talk outside."

We stepped out of the nursery and I decided to get right to it.

"Where's your boyfriend? I need to talk to him."

"Sulking in the bedroom. I'll let him know."

I followed her to the bedroom they shared and she left the door ajar enabling me to catch a glimpse of him. He looked tormented and deep in thought. Whatever happened between him and Erma must have been epic to affect him like this.

"Tony is looking for you, he wants to talk." Keira informed him.

"Tell him to piss off." He replied bitterly.

Erma had warned me that he was mad at me too.

"Why don't you grow some bloody balls and tell me to piss off than using Keira as your bloody messenger?" I challenged him before I could control my mouth.

He gave me a murderous look, the one he gave anyone he wanted to beat to a pulp.

"Keira, leave us." He told her softly.

Once Keira was gone, his pale blue eyes settled on me.

"Say that again with a straight face." He demanded fiercely.

"What did you do to mom? She left here in the middle of the night crying her eyes out."

"And you just assumed of was my doing?" He questioned.

"Yeah it was. You're the only one who ever

makes her cry. You're such an insensitive prick."

"And you did your responsibility as a son and consoled her?"

Now he was being sarcastic and rude.

"Of course I did. I owe her that much. She loved me when no one else would."

A bitter laugh escaped him. "You don't owe her anything."

"Only you would be this callous. You were fortunate enough to have a mother who adores you and yet you treat her like shit!"

He stood up from the bed, his fists balled up.

"You want her? Keep her! I have no use for her. She's not mother anymore."

Surprise hit me at how casual he was being about it.

"Is that why you kicked her out in the middle of the night you bloody idiot?"

That must have been the limit.

He shoved me hard enough to almost destabilize me. I shoved him back and wasted no time in tackling him down where I punched his nose and the rest of his face as he punched me in the eye. Things would gave gotten out of hand if it want for the bodyguards who intervened.

"Keep her if you want to. Get out of my house!" He yelled as his bodyguards held him back.

"You're cold Jacobolas and you deserve to die alone."

"Forget we were friend. Get out!" He yelled again.

I didn't object. I left and went straight for Bianca. She was wide awake and seated on the bed.

"Pack up, we are leaving!"

Bianca's POV

Tony had sounded worked up when he ordered me to pack up.

I wasn't sure what was going on but I wasn't about to ask either. I was halfway done when Keira budged in.

"What's going on? What's happening between Tony and Jacob?" She asked.

I was just as confused and clueless as she was.

"I don't know. I had hoped you knew. Tony just ordered me to pack and I'm doing just that."

Keira looked troubled.

"Promise me that whatever happens between them you and me will remain friends." She asked taking my hand into hers.

I knew far too well how stubborn Tony could be. I slowly withdrew my hand from hers.

"Keira we've been through a lot together. Its enough for me to know you're a sincere friend but you need to understand that if he asks me to stop talking to you, I will have to oblige."

Like she understood where I was coming from, she hugged me tightly.

"I love you Keira. You're my best friend. I will secretly text and call no matter where Tony drags me."

"I love you too Bea. Let's not allow their fallout to end our friendship."

We were interrupted when Tony stormed in. We held hands tightly.

"Let's go, now!"

I saw Keira's inquisitive eyes and I hoped Tony wouldn't blast her.

"Tony, Bianca is my best friend. Please don't separate us. What you and Jacob had was a small misunderstanding that can be sorted out if we sit and talk."

Tony sifted his stance.

"Look love, you and Bianca have nothing to do with this. If you think for a second that your stubborn boyfriend will want to resolve this, then you don't know him at all."

He gripped my hand and Keira's and separated us.

He picked the packed bag, grabbed my hand and dragged me behind him.

Keira followed as I gave her one last glance before I was at the back of a town car speeding off out of the Berlotelli Villa.

=================

Author's note

Hey there my fabulous readers!!!

First things first, a big fat apology for in publishing the last parts of this book.

I'm editing and that means new content that may conflict with the existing one.

Expect three more chapters or so before the end and some shocking bits.

Love you all, and thank you for the support.

=================

Chapter thirty three: Cheryl

I had been staring at nothing for the longest time. I felt purposeless and slightly confused at what had happened between us. Twenty years of friendship was over just because we couldn't agree about the one woman who had raised us should be treated.

Two decades of friendship was over.

I was over.

I was empty.

Jacob was my best friend, the only reason I was a billionaire was because he generously handed me an oil well as a gift. He gave me a foundation for my wealth.

How had things gotten so out of hand?

My bad temper? My lack of a brain to mouth filter?

Had I picked the wrong time to confront him?

It didn't

seem like there would have been a right time. He was pissed at me from even before I had asked to see him?

What had I done wrong?

All those questions had been puzzling me. When Jacob and I were younger, he would sometimes be pissed at me for no reason. Sometimes he would have had a bad day and he would take it out on me. He would apologize and we would get over it.

This time round it had been too long. An entire month and he hadn't called. I hadn't called either. I was just as stubborn as he was.

I supposed we both got the ugly trait from Erma.

Erma.

She was not returning my calls and was not in Milan as she had promised she would.

"Tony?"

I raised my eyes to Bianca as she stood in front of me holding out a plate of food. Her eyes darted to my other untouched plate and she sighed.

She set down the plate and opened the drapes. The dull London skies didn't exactly inspire any positive mood on my end. It was pouring cats and dogs and it had been so the entire week. I saw no points in opening the drapes.

I squinted slightly and focused on my beautiful fiancé.

"Are you alright Tony? You've been sulking all month. You haven't even left the house once." She said as she brought herself to straddle

me.

She touched my beard and smiled slightly.

"This look you have going on makes you look older and sexier." She whispered. "And more like a father."

I drew my full attention to her. Her green eyes were a little teary.

She brought my hand down to her stomach.

"You're going to be a father Tony. I just found out. Please tell me this is reason enough for you to live again." She spoke softly.

A small smile crept up on me. I felt a little brighter. I touched her belly rubbing it continuously.

"Life is giving us another chance at being parents. This time, I want it to work Tony. It must work."

"And it will love. I'll make sure it will work. Bianca, I can't believe this. Bloody hell I can't wait to hold our baby." I told her.

She burst into tears and cried her heart out as I just held her. She was excited no doubt and she was right. I had a new reason to go back to my normal life.

How long would I sulk over Jacob when he had moved on with his life? When he was moving on like we didn't have a fall out?

"I'm so happy. I can't wait and yes, you just gave me a new resolve."

She smiled and started laughing with her eyes still tearing up. She cupped my face and kissed my lips sensually.

"I love you." She said.

She suddenly got a distant look in her eyes. She was debating with herself. My hands settled on her slender thighs. If she gained a little more weight I'd love it. If she was at least two sizes bigger.

"Whatever it is, tell me." I spoke up.

"I don't want any secrets between us, so I'm going to tell you something about myself. Promise me you won't hate me."

She was fumbling with her engagement ring and I knew her greatest fear; that I would leave her.

"I can never leave you. Now that you're having my baby, you're stuck with me forever."

She smiled.

"Before I became a model, I did some pretty bad things." She began. "I was raised in a bad neighborhood without the shelter and protection of a family. I was a street rat for sometime before I was put in foster care. I got passed from one home to the next until I lost sense of permanence."

That explained why she had feared commitment when I first met her.

"When I turned ten, I ran from the foster home I was in and joined a local gang. We did all sorts of things from tagging walls to petty theft."

I couldn't imagine Bianca tagging a wall but this world was full of surprises.

"After two years or so, I grew fond of a girl who was my closest friend. Her name was Tabby. She was a junkie but I still adored her. One day, she was so desperate for some heroine she hooked up with a guy to get it." She paused.

I rubbed her thighs slightly.

"Half way through she paJacobed and wanted out. It was her first time I guess. That man wouldn't let her go. I was scared and I paJacobed. I grabbed a metal pipe and

beat him halfway to death."

I was a little surprised although I had no doubt Bianca could hold her own in a fight.

"Tabby stuck the needle into her arm first chance she got and over dosed. She died soon after. I risked my own life to save her and she still killed herself."

Her eyes teared up.

"I was arrested. I went to juvy for two years. In there it was hard. I learned the hard way that life was selfish. It was always me myself and I. Tony, I'm the way I am because life moulded me this way."

She allowed her tears to glow and I was greatful for her honesty. I had a dossier on her life history but it was always better to hear it from the source.

"Its okay love, I understand. Life dealt you a bad hand but now you are okay. You are safe. You are with me. No one will ever hurt you."

I pulled her very close and kissed her softly.

"Thank you for opening up. I'm glad you trust me. I love you."

*

Later that day after Bianca had poured out her heart to me, I decided to go see my sister. During my time in Santorini I had learned a few things about her that I wanted to ask.

Secrets are not uncommon within my family. Everybody harbored secrets.

The manor was quiet when I got there. My father was busy filling in a crossword when I walked into his office.

"Lyons!" He exclaimed with a hint of excitement in his voice. "What a lovely surprise."

"Why are you so jolly?" I asked.

"Its not every day my only son visits. What brings you here?"

He set aside the newspaper and focused on me. He was aging rather quickly and I was worried

about his heart. I had watched Jacob's grandfather die right in front of my eyes and I wouldn't let it happen with my old man.

We had our differences but Wayne Bellingerre was still my father.

"How have you been dad?" I asked.

"Great, running the company you promised to take up." He grumbled.

"I'm sorry about that. A lot has been going on. You heard about Jacob's grandfather?"

"Of course. He was a business legend. A heart attack?"

I nodded.

My father sighed bringing his hand to his chest.

"My time will be sooner or later."

"Don't say that. The spiteful ones live the longest." I teased him.

He gave a hearty laugh and peered at me.

"How's Erma? I tried calling her but she's not picking my calls."

"Jacob kicked her out of the villa. Sources say his grandfather named him his sole heir. He cut Erma off financially. I don't know what the bloody hell is wrong with him."

My father stood up and placed his hand on my shoulder.

"Lyons, there's more to Jacob's behaviour than meets the eye. I would advise you to hold off on getting worked up."

"Are you okay with the way he's treating Erma?"

"Of course not but why don't you ask Erma why her son is going ballistic on her."

My father seemed to know something I didn't.

"What's going on Wayne?" I asked.

"You'll find out soon enough. I just hope you'll forgive us all. Why are you here? I know it's not because you wanted to see me."

He was definitely hiding something that probably entailed Erma, Jacob and

I.

"I'm looking for Cheryl."

"Haven't seen your sister for days on end."

"She doesn't live here?" I asked.

"She does, but this house is too large, I never even see her. The servants sat she leaves early and comes in late. So I honestly don't remember the last time I saw my own daughter."

"I need to talk to her. When you do see her, tell her to come see me."

After I left the place, I had my chauffeur drive me to Bellingerre Consolidate. I went through the workload my father had left me hoping to keep my mind from wandering off. I was thinking about a lot if things.

Erma, my friendship with Jacob, my soon to be wife and baby and now Cheryl.

Picking up my phone, I decided to give Erma a call. It rung on end and finally went to voicemail.

"You've reached Erma, please leave a message."

"Mom, I'm worried about you. Please call me back. I love you."

After I hung up, I watched Cheryl walking into my office. Her silver eyes looked tired. She seemed a little stressed out as well.

"She lives." I teased her.

She dropped her bag on my table and sat down facing me.

"What the bloody hell do you want?"

She was in a bad mood.

"Would you happen to be hiding a five year old boy in Cuba?" I asked.

I saw no need to beat around the bush. Cheryl liked it when people got straight to the point.

My question unnerved her. She raised one of her brows and squinted slightly.

"I don't know what you're talking about." She denied picking up her bag.

"Let me rephrase. Do you have a five year old son whom you're hiding in Cuba?"

"No."

A lie.

Trust Cheryl to lie with a straight face. She was frustrating me. I was done with secrets. My temper was flaring. I banged my fists on the table and that startled her."

"Tell me the truth!" I snapped.

"Why? Who the bloody hell do you think you are to demand anything from me?"

"I'm you're brother Cheryl. I have a right to know."

She rolled her silver eyes at me and laughed sarcastically.

"And I'm the Queen of England. Stay out of my business James Lyons. It doesn't concern you at any level. Piss off!"

She walked out and I just stood there wondering what had just happened.

Everything was falling apart and something told me that it was all about to go downhill from here.

=================

Chapter thirty four: Mistakes of the past

Author's note:

Hey everyone.

So here we are, secrets all over the place. Hold on to your hats for two major secrets that are about to come out that will leave Tony feeling utterly betrayed.

This chapter is a walk down memory lane.

Enjoy your reading.

(29 years ago in

Paris)

"I'm not interested." I turned down the silver eyed man.

He chuckled softly and reached out for my hand despite my clear stand on his question.

It was freezing in Paris, the dead of winter for that matter. I would have been back in the warmth of the Tuscan sun but I preferred the sub zero temperatures compared to my father giving me hell about my son's father.

His touch was the kind of warmth I needed, the attention

and affection I badly craved.

His silver eyes were cunning and very enticing. The way he looked at me made my toes curl. Nathan hadn't looked at me this way in a long time.

I was young and desperate for some love. I wanted to be loved and Nathan was never around. I was only nineteen at the time, turning twenty in a week or so. I already had a two year old son at home. If this man knew all I was thinking, he would probably retract his

offer to have dinner with me.

"One dinner. If you don't want to see me anymore, I'll respect your wishes."

"You don't even know my name." I teased him still enjoying the warmth of his hand.

His silver eyes flickered affectionately.

"But I do. Who wouldn't know the lovely Erma Berlotelli?" He asked with a seductive smile. "We've met before but perhaps you're were too young to remember."

I winced my soft brown eyes trying to recall where I

had seen him. Then it dawned on me. Five years ago, my father had thrown an end year party at Berlotelli Winery and Vineyard. I had met him then.

"You know I was only fourteen."

"And now you've grown into a lovely young woman. You're very beautiful Erma."

"Grazi. What's your name?" I asked as much as I knew who he was.

"Wayne. Wayne Bellingerre. So what's your answer?"

"Sure. I will have dinner with you."

That is how it all started.

Random dinners as we rendezvoused all over the world. It was exciting and I loved the thrill of having his full attention.

But he was a man, with needs and as much as he was a gentleman, he still dropped hints about what he needed from me.

One rainy night while we were in London, in his home, it happened. We made love repeatedly through the weekend.

That weekend had been perfect.

I didn't have any regrets up

to the point when I returned to Tuscany and Nathan was there. He had formally asked for my hand in marriage and my father approved it.

We had a big Italian wedding. I loved Nathan and I knew I had broken Wayne's heart but I loved Nathan. We had a son together.

The first month of marriage was a bliss, a bed of roses. Everything was perfect. I was happy with my husband and my son. But my secret union with Wayne wouldn't remain a

secret as I had hoped.

Two months into my marriage I realized I was expectant but it was not Nathan's. It was Wayne's. I had no intention of telling anyone. I would have the baby and I would never tell my husband the baby wasn't his.

Nathan was away constantly and that enabled me to move on without him asking questions. When I found out I was having a son, I got more troubled. I hoped with everything I

had that the boy wouldn't inherit his father's silver eyes. If he did, Nathan would never forgive me.

The months flew by quickly, Jacob was growing up and looking like Nathan with every passing day. I kept my secret but soon enough, my secret would come out of me.

I battled with myself wondering if I should have told Nathan about Wayne but some part of me knew he would never forgive me.

Just before winter, I went into labor. After almost ten hours,

I finally gave birth to a baby boy. Nathan was in the room with me and as soon as he held the boy, I had seen the doubt in his eyes.

A month down the line, he stopped holding my son. Something told me he knew the truth. He presented me with a DNA test a few days later.

"Nathan, let me explain." I began.

"Why would you cheat on me?" He had asked in a defeated voice.

"I'm

sorry, I thought you weren't ever coming back to me. I found comfort with-"

"I don't want to know who he is." He told me almost quietly.

I knew it was because he would probably go after Wayne.

"How long have you known?" I asked.

"Since I came home and you told me you're pregnant. The timing was off by a month. As soon as he was born I looked at him and I felt it. I had a DNA test done that

very night. I've known for a month now and Erma, I've tried okay? I've tried to be a father to him but I can't do it anymore."

I reached out for him and touched his chest only for him to withdraw.

"Its Jacobolas and I or James Lyons but you can't have it both ways. Choose."

A had to make a choice. I loved Nathan and I couldn't be away from Jacob.

A week later I was standing in front of the Bellingerre

manor with my son in my arms.

Wayne was surprised to see me and even more shocked to meet his one month old son.

"Why now? Why are you telling me this now?" He asked.

"Nathan doesn't want him. He's threatening to take Jacob from me if I don't give Tony up. Please take care of him."

"I will. But one day you'll regret this. What should I say when he asks about you?"

"Tell him the truth. Tell him I abandoned him."

Presently...

That is the truth Wayne had told Tony all along. The truth that would make Tony hate me no matter how much I would explain myself. My heart was aching. My whole body shaking with fear.

"Mrs. Bale, he's in. You can enter."

I stared at the opaque glass doors and froze. Where would I even start?

"Can you please get the door for me?" I asked.

She stared at me probably thinking I was a snob but honestly, if she didn't do it, I wouldn't be brave enough to push the doors open.

She did so.

I stood at the entrance e taking in the sight of my younger son. His dark hair that was much like mine, his soft brown eyes and his olive skin. He was all me unlike Jacob who was all Nathan.

I adored Tony a little more than I did Jacob but I wasn't sure he would forgive me. If he was more hot tempered than Jacob, I was in trouble.

As soon as his eyes met mine I managed a small smile.

"Mom! Finally!" He exclaimed with a big smile.

He walked up to me and enveloped me in a tight hug that only made me feel worse about myself.

I broke the hug and took a step back. He frowned at me and cupped my face.

"What's wrong?" He asked.

"If your biological mother was to suddenly surface, would you accept her?" I put it out there not seeing a need to beat around the bush.

The look he gave me was serious.

"No. I wouldn't." He answered plainly. "Why would I when she purposefully abandoned me."

My heart stilled.

"Even if she was sorry and she wanted to explain herself?"

"There is no

reason good enough to abandon a child. Its twenty eight years too late, don't you think? Why are you even talking about her? She's irrelevant."

I was irrelevant. He was harsher than Jacob. I could see it in his eyes. Tony had always been the son who never forgave. Jacob would get pissed and get over it. Tony could hold down a grudge for a lifetime. He would hate me eternally.

"Won't you want to hear her side of the story?" I asked.

"No. There is only one side to the story. She abandoned me. Nothing more, nothing less."

"But you had your father." I tried to reason with him.

"Wayne was nothing like a father. He was brutal, mean and plain abusive. You know that already. I told you, didn't I?"

He was clearly getting upset. What he didn't know was that Wayne was never always cold. I did that to him the moment I made him think we could be something only for me to go back to Nathan.

"Can you at least give her a chance to speak for herself?" I asked.

"No. Why are we even talking about my bloody mother?"

Placing my bag on the table I slowly interlaced our fingers like I used to when he was a child. Raising my eyes to his, I took a moment to savour the moment before it all went to hell.

"I love you baby boy. You know that."

"I do. And I love you back."

"That's why I want you to know that what I'm about to say will hurt. Its not easy for me to break your heart but I can't keep lying to you anymore."

"Mom, what's going on?"

"I'm the one who abandoned you."

Tony narrowed his eyes as a small smile formed only for it to fade when he saw how serious I was.

"What?" He asked.

"I was in a steamy relationship with your father two years after I had had Jacob. I got pregnant and at the same time Jacob's father wanted me back. I didn't want to tell him that you weren't his but he found out and made me choose-"

"Between Jacob and I?" He completed my sentence.

"Yes. I chose your brother and gave you up to your father. I'm sorry Tony."

His hands grew limp and he dropped them to his sides.

"Tony-"

He held up his index finger, surprise evident in his eyes. He was speechless, almost as pale as Jacob was after I told him about Tony.

A moment passed by as he just stared at me.

"Baby boy please say something, anything at all."

"You're my mother. You gave birth to me?" He asked in disbelief.

I nodded.

"You abandoned me."

"But I made it up to you from the moment Jacob brought you home." I tried to reason with him.

"After I spent countless night crying my eyes out as child wondering why every other kid had a mother except for me!" He snapped.

"Tony-"

"Don't Erma. Don't."

He was calling me by my first name. That was not a good sign.

"I'm sorry."

"Get out please. Leave and never come back."

That is what I had expected. My father had warned me that the boys wouldn't forgive me and his prediction was slowly coming to pass.

"Tony, hear me out."

"Not now, please. I'm very angry and it won't be safe for either of us to be in the same room right now. Get out."

I didn't need to be told twice.

I picked my bag and gazed at him one more time.

"I'm sorry my boy. I'm very sorry."

Secrets...

Mine was our and I feared the childish mistake I made would haunt me to my grave.

=================

Chapter thirty five: Explain

"I can't believe this!" I exclaimed angrily when I walked into the manor and found Erma with my father.

I had spent most of the night in my office trying to wrap my hand around her secret. I had come to the manor to talk to my father but now she was here.

"Lyons, calm down." My father was quick to speak.

His fingers interlaced with Erma's. I hated the sight of it. The two people who had made me. One of them abandoned me and the other was simply a terrible parent.

It certainly explained why he was always asking about Erma. It explained his unusual concern for her.

"I don't want to see her. I need to talk to you Wayne, right now!"

"About what."

"Her." I answered pointing at Erma.

"Don't be disrespectful Lyons. Hate me, disrespect me but show some respect for the woman who gave birth to you."

"And abandoned me?"

I had never seen my gather defend someone like that.

"Aren't you still married to Jacob's dad? Tell me, how would Nathan Bale feel about this?"

"I'm simply here to ask your dad to help me talk to you."

"You've had twenty eight years to tell me the truth. When my brother brought me home to you, you should have told me!"

"You were eight, you wouldn't have understood." She argued.

"So it was easier to have my father tell me you didn't want me? Do you think it was easy for me?"

"I did it for your own good." She pleaded.

Bloody bullocks! That's crap I don't need yo hear right now!"

I had lost all control of my temper. I was yelling, throwing my hands carelessly and looking for ways

to make her hurt like I had done over the years.

"Lyons, that's enough. Why don't we sit down over a cup of tea and talk this through like adults."

"I'm not in the mood for chatter and tea. Is this why Jacob doesn't want you around? Because of your lies Erma?"

Her eyes teared up.

She started crying and I watched my father hugging her tightly.

"What else are you hiding? Is Cheryl yours too?" I demanded brutally.

"No she's not." My father interjected.

"Who else of my friend's moms have you banged?"

My father slapped me and I shoved him as Erma jumped in between.

"Don't Tony. I'm not here to cause trouble."

"You caused troubled the moment you opened your mouth Erma. I was fine not knowing who my mother was but you just had to ruin it!"

"I had to tell you the truth."

"Twenty eight years too late!" I emphasized. "I don't need this. I don't need either of you in my life. I'm done with Bellingerre Consolidate and I'm done with you Erma."

I turned to leave and she grabbed by arm getting down on her knees.

"Tony, please. I've carried this with me all my life. Don't you think it's punishment enough? Please, don't hate me. I'm sorry."

"I don't want to hear it."

"I'm sorry."

"You looked me in the eye every night when you tucked me in and never once did you think to tell me the truth. Every damn birthday, when I sulked because my parents weren't around you would tell me that I mean the world to you, you still didn't come clean. Erma, I'm done." I spoke a little more calmly. "Don't look for me, don't call

me, don't text me. Forget I exist."

I pulled my hand out of hers and left walking into the rainy night.

I went back to the office and drank two full bottles of scotch before I passed out on the couch.

*

"Pitiful."

I opened my eyes and saw my sister sitting on the coffee table staring at me.

It was bloody bright and I had a bloody migraine.

"Two bottles of scotch? What the hell is wrong with you? Did you at least call Bianca?"

Bianca.

I hadn't even thought of her. I had been so engrossed in my own troubles I hadn't even thought of my fiancée.

I sat up rubbing my eyes and searching for my phone.

"Here." Cheryl handed it to me.

I had over a dozen missed calls from Bianca.

Without saying a word I grabbed my coat and left Cheryl seating there alone.

*

"Bea?" I called through the penthouse when I walked in but there was no response. "Bea Bianca?"

I heard a movement in the bedroom before she appeared by the doorway in nothing but my shirt. The buttons opened up dangerously low and it ended way above her knees.

"You live. Peachy!" She spoke.

"I'm so sorry love."

"You stood me up last night. We had a dinner reservation. I called you all night Tony. Where were you?"

She didn't sound upset. Just worried.

"I'm sorry. There is nothing I can say or do that will justify my absence last night. I'm sorry."

She walked towards me and cupped my face.

"You need a good shower, a good meal and some rest and then we can talk about last night. Is that okay baby?"

She was being unusually

understanding. The old Bianca would have gone ballistic on me.

Our love had truly evolved.

"I will appreciate that. Will join me for the shower?" I asked.

"Go on and get started. I'll just tell the chef to whip you something greasy. It will sort your hung over."

She walked away and I headed straight for the bathroom did adding my clothes until I stood naked. I grabbed my toothbrush and brushed my teeth before staring at myself for the longest time.

I was Erma Bale's son. Jacobolas Bale was my older brother. Did he know the truth prior to their fall out? Did he want me as a brother?

Questions without answers.

Bianca wrapped her hands around me and I turned to face her beautiful face.

"I love you. I need a distraction from my thoughts even if it is just for a moment."

She knew what I meant.

We ended up having rough hungry sex in the shower and we finished it up in the bedroom. She was feisty all through and I loved her wild side.

When we were done, we were utterly breathless. I turned my head to face her and she frowned at me.

"What was all that?" She asked.

"Did I hurt you?"

"No but I'm really sore. What's going on? You were kissing my belly like tomorrow would never come."

"I was kissing my baby. No matter what, promise me you would never leave our baby."

She sat up and closed the gap between us.

"I've made stupid mistakes but now I'm more than ready to become a mother. I'm ready to become your wife and for us to be a family. I will never abandon

our child."

She brought my hand to her belly.

"I promise." She added. "But you have to tell me what's going on with you."

"Do you remember my fight with Jacob?" I asked her.

"Of course, who wouldn't?"

"Don't be funny Bianca." I chided with a laugh. "I know why he was so worked up."

"Why?"

"Erma had a secret that hurt him and I only made it worse by calling him out on it." I explained.

"What secret?"

"She's my birth mother."

Bianca was surprised and I could tell she didn't believe it just as much as I struggled with the truth.

"She told me yesterday. I was mad at her, at my dad and maybe even the universe."

"I'm sorry Tony. You should have called me. I would have come over and stayed by you."

"I know but I was so angry and I couldn't bring that around you and the baby."

"What will you do now?" She asked.

"Nothing. I don't want anything to do with either of them. I'm done."

"Them? Who do you mean?"

"The Berlotellis, the Bellingerre's. I'm done. I just want you and my baby, that's all."

She didn't argue with me. She pulled me in and hugged me so tightly. I was thankful she didn't throw a fit over me sleeping g at the office.

Later on we had breakfast but she threw up like crazy.

After a long nap, I finally woke up late in the evening. As usual, it was raining. Bianca was not around and I guessed she was at the flower shop.

I was checking for something to drink in my

fridge when I heard the sound of high heeled shoes coming at me. I closed the fridge door and spotted Cheryl.

"Looking a little saner." She pointed out. "After last night's drama."

"If you're here to talk any sense into me, I'm not interested." I told her.

"Far from it. Your reaction was much better than I had imagined."

I stared at her blankly.

"What is that supposed to mean?"

"I thought since secrets are being revealed, I may as well reveal a few of my own. Three to be particular."

I honestly wasn't interested in listening to any more secrets. I was tired.

"Not interested."

"I knew she was your mother." She blurted out.

"You did?"

"Yeah. She's the reason I turned Jacob down when he proposed. She's the reason I stopped sleeping with Jacob. She told me the truth a day before he proposed."

"Come to think of it, its messed up. She knew all along that you were his half sister and she watched as he bed you every other time. Dad knew it too and he did nothing."

"That brings me to secret number two."

I downed my water and waited to be more surprised than I already was.

"I'm not his half sister."

"It's basic biology. You and I share the same father and since his my brother, it makes him yours too."

"Not if I'm not your sister."

"What do you mean?"

"I'm not Wayne Bellingerre's daughter in any sense. After Erma told me about Jacob and you, I got curious and had a DNA test done. I'm not a Bellingerre. I'm a nobody."

I couldn't believe what I was hearing. It was too much. Too many secrets were coming out and I just couldn't handle it.

"That's enough."

"No. I need to tell you the last one."

"What? You're an alien?" I asked laughing in disbelief.

She wasn't amused but laughed nonetheless.

"No. But I wish I was then I would take over the world."

"What is it then?"

She sighed and when she pushed back her hair, I realized she had lost quite a bit of weight. She had been away for so long and now that she was back, she was not the same Cheryl. She was less playful. A little more serious and too quiet.

"You were right. The five year old boy is my son. His name is David. I've been keeping him a secret because I wasn't sure how either you or dad would react to me being pregnant at only eighteen."

"You didn't need to keep him a secret. You should have told me."

Her eyes teared up but knowing Cheryl, she fought them. She never cried in front of anyone.

"Well, that concludes my list."

"The entire list?" I asked her knowing there was so much more she wasn't saying.

She approached me and mapped out my face.

"I can't believe you're not my brother." She spoke softly. "My whole life is based on secrets. So trust me, some stones are better left unturned. Once you know who I truly am, you'll never look at me the same way."

After planting kiss on my cheek, she took a step back.

"I'm going to be gone for a while. Promise me you'll be okay. Don't let hate consume you. You're fortunate enough to have both your parents. Embrace the opportunity and be happy James Lyons."

She blew me a kiss and left.

I stood in the middle of the kitchen wondering what other secret lay out there. I couldn't handle any more lies. Not in this lifetime or the next.

=================

Chapter thirty six: Reconsider

Eight months later

Tony's POV

Monaco was great.

I loved if here. Bianca was already at home and we had been working on a nursery.

We were having a son and we had even picked out a name. I had not spoken to Erma, my father or Jacob for the last eight months. Part of me missed them but my stubborn self fought against the slightest thought of a reconciliation.

I however had been doing a lot of thinking.

"Yellow is a little too bright." Bianca complained.

"Its okay for a baby. Besides, this will be the nursery for every baby we have." I added.

"How many do you want?" She asked.

"You're the one doing the heavy lifting. How many do you want?"

She chuckled softly.

"I've always wanted a big family. For now, let's say two?"

"Two it is love." I kissed her. "If not yellow, then a lime green?"

"I hate green." She muttered.

"Then white." I was running out of ideas.

"Cream. White is a little too much for a nursery."

"Cream it is."

Lately I had been agreeing with Bianca every chance I got. I didn't see a need to disagree with her especially since both of us have mastered the art of conceding defeat.

"Great. Tony?"

"Yeah?"

"About Erma."

I closed my eyes and cursed silently.

"What about her?" I asked in a bored tone.

She interlaced our fingers and leaned in to kiss me softly. All

I could do at that moment was feel. Thinking was not even an option. Age knew how to get me to commit to anything she wanted. After a long intimate kiss, she was ready to make her demands.

"Don't you miss her? She's your mother."

"I do miss her." I saw no point in lying to myself because no matter how hard I had been pretending to be okay, I was not.

My once complete family was broken. Nonno was dead, Jacob was too quiet and Erma had been tirelessly calling me. Part of me wondered whether she was making the same effort with Jacob.

"Then end the sleepless nights and make amends."

"Its not that easy."

"Try to put yourself in her shoes Tony. As much as she gave you up, she left you in Wayne"s hands. Your own biological father."

"It doesn't make up for her absence. There is no version of reality where I'll ever abandon Aidan. I wouldn't."

Aidan was the name we had settled for. I was looking forward to being a father. Jacob seemed to be natural at it and I hoped I would be a natural too. Perhaps if we were on speaking terms I would have asked him for parenting advice. He did have three children already.

"It doesn't but give her a chance Tony, please. Our son will need his family together."

No doubt he would. I walked over to the window and stood there staring at the beautiful sunny afternoon.

"I'm not sure that Jacob would want to resolve things."

I still remembered the murderous look he had had in those pale blue eyes. I had never seen him so upset and unsettled.

"Why would

you say that? A man who treated you like his brother even before he had the slightest clue about who you were to him will want to resolve this." Bianca spoke calmly. "How did you two meet?"

"We met in a boarding school in Switzerland. I was constantly being bullied and one afternoon while I was getting beat up, he intervened."

I turned to face Bianca my mind fixed on the day I had met Jacobolas Berlotelli Bale for the very first time.

"He beat the crap out of the bully. Can you believe he broke the bully's nose?"

Bianca laughed softly.

"No way!"

"Way. You should have seen it. He got suspended for about a week or so but no body ever bullied me again. They all knew I was under his protection. During his suspension, it was Bruce who watched my back."

"At what point did you meet Cole and Ferrer?"

Bianca and I had never talked about how we met our friends.

"Cole was a good boy. His parents didn't see a need to send him to a boarding school. We met up with him during summer or winter holidays. As for Ferrer, he joined our crew in college."

"You guys must be very close. It makes me wonder how this mess between you and Jacob is affecting the others."

She had a point. Naturally, Cole would never take sides. That's how he always managed to keep us in line. Bruce was always aligned to Jacob no matter what. As for Ferrer, he and I were very close. He would back me up whenever.

This grudge between Jacob and I was still under control. Neither of us had mentioned a word to the boys. Otherwise, loyalty cards would have been drawn and sides would have been picked. Maybe the reason

behind either of us not saying a word to the boys was because we hoped to resolve it sooner or later.

"Tony?"

I gazed at her and smiled.

"You're right. Jacob may want to resolve this. Tell you what." I said holding her hand. "I'll reach out. If he doesn't want to meet me halfway, I won't push."

"That's why I love you. You're a good man, a good friend, a good brother and you will be the beat father in the world."

"Cheers to that. I can't wait for Aidan to be born already. I'm going crazy out of my mind just wondering what will happen."

She sighed sadly as her face dropped.

"Are you alright love?" I asked her my hand settling on her belly.

"I'm a little scared." She spoke so quietly I barely heard her.

"What are you scared of love?" I asked.

She cast her lovely green eyes downward to her belly where she carried my son. Her hand covered my own and in that instant I felt a tear drop on my hand.

My heart ached and my breath caught. There was nothing that pained me more than seeing Bea Bianca downhearted.

"Bea, what's wrong? Tell daddy what's wrong."

"What if I can't push Aidan out? What will happen to the both of us?"

Bianca had freaked out when Keira had been unable to push the twins out. An emergency surgery had been done to get the twins out.

"You mean like what happened with Keira?"

She nodded, her eyes welled up with tears.

I leaned down and kissd away each tear. Now more than ever she needed to be around Erma. She was

good at dealing with such emotions. Besides that she had given birth to Jacob and I. She would best help my fiancée.

"I'm here. I'm right here and I will be in that delivery room with you. You can curse me all you want and I'll bear it all for you. You'll do great my little fire cracker."

She smiled slightly and that is all I needed to smile back. She didn't know it but I was equally going out of my mind with worry.

*

The Harringtons were known for their extensive possession of unimaginably expensive jewellery pieces. Some pieces were rumoured to have been owned by royalty at some point.

Each year, they threw a Charity Gala and raised money for affordable housing. This year round, I was hesitant to attend. For one, Bianca was almost due and secondly, I wasn't sure how Jacob would feel about me seating across the table from him.

After getting to the gala, he had been unusually cool about my presence. I hadn't seen Keira until the point when Jacob was shaking the life out of her.

Her pale face was still vivid in my mind. Her puffy red eyes. She had been crying thanks to the rumours of her affair with an older man... An older man who turned out to be Jacobolas Bake, Jacob's father.

I had almost exchanged a few fists with Jacob over his I'll treatment towards Keira had Erma not intervened.

I don't know why but I was always protective when it came to Keira. I felt an unusual

need to keep her safe. Perhaps it was her demure and non offensive nature. She was timid and no doubt even more under Jacob's domineering personality.

But everything was resolved before things escalated out of hand. Nathan had been using Keira as his path back to Jacob. He had ended up leaving with his son and Cole took Keira home after an ugly confrontation with her fiancé.

Now I was seated in a cafe staring into a pair of warm teary brown eyes. I had endured two women crying around me and now Erma was also crying.

Jacob had requested a meeting and I had availed myself. We were in an Italian restaurant. HD had just asked me to be his best man and just like that we were okay.

Jacob never saw a need to explain himself and neither did I. In an instant it was all water under the bridge.

After he invited us for dinner at his house, he left me alone with Erma.

"Stop crying, please."

She cried even more dabbing her eyes repeatedly to the point I felt like the worst son alive. Jacob had just made up with her and now it was my turn.

I was still upset with her but I kept remembering how much affection she had showed me even at the expense of Jacob's feelings. How she had always sided with me no matter what.

It was the small things she did that made me feel horrible for not forgiving her.

"Mom, please stop crying. I love you."

That made her stop for a second before she unleashed a floodgate of tears. Enveloping her in my arms, I kissed the top of her head.

"I love you mom. I love you so please, no more tears."

"Does this mean you forgive me figlio?" She asked in

a broken voice.

"Of course. You had to make a difficult choice but what matters is that fate reunited us. Its all water under the bridge."

She stared at me in disbelief.

"You mean it?"

I nodded as I cleared the bill.

Erma's POV

I thought I knew my sons.

After letting my secret out, I had known Jacob was the one who would never forgive me. I had known that he would be the one to make my life hellish but he had surprised me when he had forgiven me.

James Lyons had taken a little longer than I had expected.

But what mattered to me was that we were talking. Forgiveness never happened over night. I was willing to wait no matter how long it would take them. So far, I had reached out to my sons. Now, there was one more person and he scared me.

Nathan Bale... Jacob's father.

He was leaning over the railing when I approached him. He was staring down at the busy Manhattan streets. I had decided to speak to him tonight because of the mood in the air.

Jacob had just proposed to Keira for the second time. Everyone was in a celebrant mood.

I took this chance since he was alone.

He looked as devilishly handsome as I remembered. Everyday Jacob grew more and more into his father. I had no doubt his son Jameselle would be a spitting image of him.

"Mia mogli." He spoke softly, his hand playing with the gold wedding band. "My dear wife, Erma Berlotelli Bale."

How he had known I was near him I didn't know but when his pale blue eyes met mine, I did what I had been doing all evening. I blushed like he was looking at me for the first time.

"Nate, can we talk?" I managed to speak.

"Of course. Its been overdue. Let's talk mia mogli."

Each time Nathan Bale had called me by the Greek term of endearment, my heart had always skipped a beat.

Tonight however it lacked the sexual essence he had always put into it. It had no warmth, it was just cold. So cold it chilled me to my spine.

I almost regretted seeking him out but loose ends needed to be tied up if I was ever going to move on with my life.

=================

Chapter thirty seven: Nate and I

"Are we going to stand here all night?" He asked in a calm voice.

So calm it scared me. Jacob had inherited the obscure calmness his father had. I preferred a raging mad Jacobolas than a calm one that was concealing anger. I felt the same way about Nate.

He and I never really ended things. We argued, we fought, I cheated and he walked. That's our life in a nutshell.

"Of course not. It's a cold night. I wanted us to talk about us."

"Is there us where we are concerned Mari?"

"Of course. I'm still your wife and you're my husband."

He chuckled making his face more handsome than he already was.

"You're my wife... My wife. Did that fact ever cross your mind when you slept with Wayne?"

"We weren't married then."

"Well forgive me for thinking that our commitment to each other was as good as a marriage."

He was being sarcastic just like Jacob would be right before he exploded.

"Nate-".

"Tell me why. Why did you cheat on me?"

I looked around my eyes settling on Helena. Her pale blue eyes were encouraging me to sort it out. She and I had never gotten along but something had changed tonight. It seemed that Keira and Jacob getting engaged had made everyone rethink their position in the family.

"You were never around."

A lousy reason but I was being sincere.

"I was working my ass off to give you and my only son a comfortable life!" His husky voice boomed. "I was struggling to

give an Italian billionaire's daughter the luxuries she was accustomed to. Was it ever enough? No! You cheated on me! And you want to know the worst part?"

I honestly did not.

When he approached me I trembled slightly. He poked his index finger on my chest.

"You brought to life the evidence of your unfaithfulness. Damn it Erma!"

I swallowed hard. I had known this day would come but I didn't anticipate he would be this angry.

"I love you."

"Screw you!" He cursed pushing back his sexy silver hair. "Get out of my sight before I lose my shit."

I dropped my purse and risked getting closer. Like Jacob, he was hot tempered. I still recalled how hard Jacob had slammed me against the wall after I had told him about Tony.

I reached out and touched his back.

"Nate, I'm sorry."

"No you're not. If you were, you would have given Jacobolas to me and you would have gone to your lover. If you were sorry, you would have flown him out to Florida to see me. If you were sorry, you would have given him all the letters I sent."

I felt terrible but then what was done was done.

"Is it all my fault?"

He threw me a dirty look. He wanted to lash out but he didn't. He folded his fist and closed his eyes.

"If there is one thing you know how to do, it's to get on my nerves." He said finally. "No, its both our fault. You fought hard to ruin us and I didn't fight hard enough to stop you. I accept responsibility

for this family failing."

"I do too. I should have done better. I'm sorry. I really am Nate."

He didn't say anything more. We just stood there in silence staring at nothing in particular. I had always been good at never addressing anything u had declared stressful. I simply ignored it and that helped me cope with all my problems.

After Nate and I had problems, I decided to blame him while in real sense I wasn't any better.

"Do you remember how we met?" His deep voice drew me out of my thoughts.

"By the lake. I was walking around and you were stalking me."

He laughed wrapping his hands around my waist.

"You've lost a lot of weight. The boys have worn you out."

His hand touched my cheek. I had missed the simplest of his embraces.

"Yes they have."

"Do you remember our first time?"

"How could I forget when you made something as sinful as surrendering my virtue so damn sweet?"

"Sweet? Is that how you remember our intimacy? Sweet?"

"Wasn't it?" I opened my eyes only to meet those perfect pale blue eyes.

I remembered his I had swam in his ocean of love without drowning. How I had loved and still love him. My lips automatically parted.

When he kissed me it was sweet at first, a feathery light kiss that reminded me of our first. With Nathan, every memory we have ever shared was always very vivid.

The kiss grew hungry and I understood why. We had been apart for twenty five years. This was needed.

"Not here." He whispered once he broke the kiss. Come to my hotel and I'll show you exactly how sweet things

used to be."

"What about our talk. We can't solve it with sex."

"Of course not. We'll talk after."

He took my hand and led me away through the living room where Helena was playing with Madeline.

"Be safe lovebirds." She teased.

"Mom, we don't need to be safe. I think it's safe to say Erma is past getting pregnant. Right?"

I gave him a weak smile and it dawned on him. He winced and cursed quietly.

I was seventeen when I had Jacob. I was still capable of getting knocked up and a child at this point of my life was something I didn't need.

"Going somewhere?" Jacob asked once he came in dragging Keira behind him.

She was beautiful. Both their hairs tousled and it was not a secret what they had been doing.

His eyes dropped to our hands and he frowned before looking at us. He turned to Keira and kissed her sensually.

"Go to bed I'm coming."

After she left, he turned serious.

"You forgive her just like that?" He asked.

He was upset.

"Twenty five years helps put things into perspective son. I don't see why I should keep fighting with the woman I love."

He shrugged and faced his daughter.

"Go to bed."

It was an order. One that was so stern Madeline looked startled. But having inherited her mother's stubborn nature, she rolled her pale blue eyes at him.

That angered my son.

Once upon a time Madeline had been the apple of his eye. But then Keira gave him Jamesella and everything changed. His new daughter was his focus and he didn't fail to show

his clear favor for her.

"I'm going to count to three and if you don't go to bed I'll drag you there." He spoke firmly.

Madeline didn't budge.

When Jacob reached out for her arm, I decided to intervene.

"I'll take her to bed."

"No. She's my daughter. I didn't tell you how to raise your son, stay out of my way."

The resentment was still in the depth of his eyes. He was still mad at me. Forgiveness doesn't come over night. I backed away and watched as he carried his four year old away as she kicked and screamed.

Curious, I followed.

He set her down on the bed and knelt beside her.

"Don't ever roll your eyes at me ever again. Is that clear Madeline?"

She pouted.

"You're grounded for a week. No dolls, no toys and no TV. Until you learn that I'm the parent in this house, you will lose all your privileges."

"That's not fair!" She whined.

"Life isn't fair."

He switched off the light and our eyes met once he turned to close the door.

"Don't you think you're being harsh?"

Why was I meddling?

"Don'typu think you should leave?" He fired back at me.

"Do we gave a problem Jacobo?"

"No. None that I can think of. Everything is peachy. Goodnight mom."

He walks away leaving me stunned.

"That was brutal." Tony whispered into my ear.

"What?" I asked turning to face him.

"Jacob. Give him space."

"Are you mad at me?"

He sighed and took my hands into his.

"Let's have breakfast tomorrow morning and we can talk. I'm beat and I need to take Bea home."

"To Monaco?"

"No. I can't put her on a plane. I have a penthouse not far from here."

"Let's have breakfast then. Can I bring Nathan?"

Tony smiled ruefully.

"Of course." He answered with a laugh.

He kissed the top of my head and left.

A moment later, Jacob returned and he cupped my face into his warm hands.

"I'm sorry mom. Madeline gives me a headache. She's been acting up and I'm tired of it."

"Maybe she sees how much you clearly favor your other daughter."

"Jamesella is younger. She needs my full attention."

"Tony was younger. He needed my full attention."

His eyes widened in realization. He had accused me of favoring Tony over him and now history was repeating itself.

"I love Madeline too."

"As I love you just as much. Good night Jacobolas."

He kissed my cheek and I left.

Life was not back to what I had hoped but it was okay. Nobody ever ran before they could learn how to walk.

=================

Chapter thirty eight: all mine

Bianca's POV

Everything was perfect.

Keira was married to Jacob, Cole was obviously hitting on Cheryl and Bruce had found a young flower he adored. Ferrer was the only one fighting the new order but sooner or later, he would get tamed.

But my perfect life is not based on my newly acquired friends thanks to Tony but on the bundle of joy in my hands. He was a month old now and we were happier than ever.

He had Tony's dark hair, his brown eyes and most importantly, his smile. Aidan was a piece of work and no doubt he would be a female magnet.

I have never imagined myself a mother and now that I was holding my own son, one I had struggled to push out, I couldn't believe it.

I had always wanted to be a successful super model but that life was empty. Not even money could fill the gaping hole in my heart.

Loving Tony however did the trick. He fulfilled me in every way I desired. Now that we had a baby together, a son, I was even more fulfilled.

Nothing could top the heavenly moment my beautiful baby gave me.

"Its time."

I raised my gaze to Keira and she smiled.

Something else that was perfect was my love story with James Lyons. I never imagined that I would ever get married let alone to a reformed billionaire playboy.

Tony and I had grown so much over the years. We had fought and disagreed until we finally found a way to get along. It had taken us a while but now we were a perfect fit.

The bedroom was a hive

of activity. Lorraine, Coleen and Cheryl had gone wild last night. So wild Keira and I had been lost for words.

Cheryl had gone missing after we left the club and I had spotted her arguing with Cole. What the problem was would always be a mystery since neither of them said much afterwards.

This morning she looked a little sad and confused and apparently so did Cole according to Tony.

"Are you alright?" I asked her.

"I'm brilliant." She answered casually.

"What happened with you and Cole?" I asked.

"Fairy tales aren't for everyone love." She told me with a defeated tone.

The vibrant Cheryl that was still usually so full of life was much duller than the London skies. I noticed her eyes glittering with tears and just when I was about to touch her arm, she took a step back blinking away the tears.

"Cheryl-"

We were interrupted when Cole walked in holding a black velvet box. It was large enough to probably hold a necklace.

He looked sad and Cheryl turned away from his invasive gaze. She pretended to busy herself as Cole approached me and handed me the box.

He smiled softly and kissed my cheek.

"From Tony with love." He whispered.

"Thank you. Are you and Cheryl okay?"

He looked at her and then sighed.

"Some kinds of love aren't worth it."

He left soon after and I was even more puzzled. Cheryl threw me a warning look and I decided not to pry anymore.

"Ladies, we have ten minutes." Erma announced.

She had pulled off Keira's

wedding a month ago and now she was about to make mine success.

"You look lovely Bianca. Its time to put you into that beautiful gown and marry you off to my baby boy."

"Thank you for everything."

"Thank you for giving him a son that will hopefully give him the headache he gave me." She said with a smile. "Now, let's get you married."

The next ten minutes were rushed. All my maids were dressed in lavender dresses. I had a dark purple rose bouquet with diamonds encrusted on the silk binding the stem.

Tony had spared no expense in making this wedding grand. Millions had been spent and I had not complained.

After slipping on the exquisite diamond choker and earrings from the Harrington collection, I was set.

"Now, ladies we will do as rehearsed. Madeline you go first, then Lorraine, Coleen and finally Keira. The bride comes after. Let's get moving."

When they left one by one, I felt nervous. I was about to get married and start a whole new phase of my life.

"Breathe Bea. You'll be fine." Erma urged me.

She presented me to Wayne who walked me down the make shift aisle. We were getting married within the plush grounds of the Bellingerre Manor. It was breath taking.

We had fewer guests than Keira and Jacob. Tony wanted it small and intimate. I liked it this way too.

He was looking dazzling in his ash grey tux and lavender bow tie.

Once I neared him, he reached out and took my hand. He gazed down at me in the most lovingly manner I had ever seen.

"Are you ready to belong to me love?"

"Yes I am Tony. I'm ready."

"Then lets do this already because it has taken far too long." He whispered.

Once we were in front of our guests, he cupped my face. He was fighting the urge to kiss me and so was I.

"Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today to witness the union between these two lovely people, James Lyons Bellingerre and Bea Bianca Buchanan. Now in the most unusual manner, they want to get right to the vows."

Our guests laughed as Tony gazed down at me.

"Bea, I knew you were the woman for me the moment I laid my eyes on you. I knew in that moment that you were the one I wanted. We've been through hell but what made it easier was the fact that we went through it together. Now in front of everyone I want to vow that I will go through anything and everything with you. In our highest highs, in our lowest lows, I will always be there because I love you."

Tears were already stinging at my eyes. He gazed at me expectantly and I remembered I hadn't written my vows. I wanted to speak from the heart just as he had done.

"Tony, I've given you hell and everything that could have sent any other man running. But you're not any other man. You're my man, my best friend, my lover and the father of our son. I have loved you yesterday, today and i will continue doing so tomorrow and forever. I love you."

"I love you too." He responded.

After that we exchanged our rings with Jacob presenting mine and Keira presenting Tony's. It was a perfect moment that should have been frozen for all eternity but I was sure Tony was dying to have his prize tonight.

"I never imagined it would take us this long Bea, but finally, finally you're mine. All mine."

"And I'll always be, now and forever."

=================

Epilogue

Day before the wedding

Cheryl's POV

The bachelorette party was more than a success. We had had all the fun in the world. Everyone was happy all except for the one who planned it.

Me.

I had hoped the party would be a distraction from something that had been weighing me down.

Since I returned from Cuba, Cole had been hot on my case. Cole had always been the guy who had watched me from a distance, the guy who never made a move on me. To have him all over me was a little unnerving and I was running scared.

I feared love. Hell I didn't even believe in it.

"Do you have an answer for me?" He asked as I swung on the pole.

"Why so serious Michael?" I asked.

I was a little tipsy.

He touched the tip of my nose.

"Let's go talk." He said.

I hated talking.

It meant I had to express myself and I hated that.

"No." I declined only for him to shove me over his shoulder.

We wound up in the back alley of the club where he had me pinned against the wall.

"Cheryl, what have you decided?" He sounded impatient.

"No. My answer is no."

He looked a little annoyed but he kept it together.

"I love you."

I froze.

It was not news but hearing it from him surprised me. I tried to free myself from his grip but it grew tighter.

"You have no idea how much I love you. Do you?" He asked. "I have loved you all my life and still, you won't love me back."

There was bitterness in his voice

"What do you want me to do Cheryl? What can I do to make you love me?" He asked in a weak exasperated voice. "I'll do anything."

I hated his desperation. I hated that I was making him this way. He had to know that I would never make him happy. I didn't deserve a man this good.

"I'll never love you back." I told him.

Instead of walking away, he kissed me.

I loved it and I allowed it only for it to escalate into something else that grew rough and wild as he took me against the wall, my belly pressed hard against the wall.

My moans filling the night air as he breathed hard, slammed into me so hard it felt unusually pleasurable.

After he emptied himself inside me, he stopped and leaned down to my ear.

"I love you Cheryl and I will try to kill that love. I think we're done here."

He zipped up his pants and walked off. All I heard was his Bentley taking off as I stood there.

I slowly pulled my short dress down and felt hot tears stinging my eyes.

I could never be the woman he wanted, not even in a thousand years.

Cole's POV

I was done with loving Cheryl.

I had given her all I had and now I had nothing more to offer. She had never looked my way and when she did, it never lasted.

She was the one that got away, the one that always got away. What was the point of chasing after the wind?

I needed a change, I needed to get away and I was never coming back.

THE END