Zara's POV
For some inexplicable reason, I found it difficult to meet his piercing gaze. It seemed as though I had done something wrong, and he no longer wished to witness my self-care routine.
Well, I refused to be constrained by his rules. I will not allow him to bind me with his words and desires anymore. Antoinette was right about him being unjust, selfish, and dictatorial. It turned out that I had been blinded by so many things. I couldn't believe how delusional I'd been...all these years!
I made my way upstairs and decided to change my clothes. However, as I glanced at my wardrobe, I realized my outfits were hopelessly outdated, and I had no idea how they would look on me now.
Tomorrow, I will make it a priority to buy new things for myself. In the meantime, I settled for knee-length black pants and a plain white shirt. I secured my hair in a messy bun with a hairpin.
Downstairs, I headed to the kitchen to prepare dinner. Chicken curry and egg soup seemed like a good choice, as they were easy to make. During my college days, I lived in a dorm since my home was far from the school.
That's when I became even more independent and learned how to cook properly. I couldn't always rely on takeout and instant meals, which were not the healthiest options when consumed frequently and turned into sugar.
I had been burying those memories, which brought some trouble from fans who had crushes on him, especially his girlfriends at the time, who mistook our friendship for something more. In reality, we were just friends.
While cooking, I couldn't help but smile as I reminisced about my college moments. I didn't even realize that the food was ready until I finished setting the table.
Both of them sat down at the table, and we said our prayers before enjoying the meal. I could see that my son was happy now. Perhaps it was because his dad had finally shown up, something Lucas hadn't done before.
"Dad, can we play after dinner?"
Enrique asked his father, and I was slightly taken aback. It was because he allowed our son to casually address him as "dad." Clearly, he had changed his stance.
"No, son. It's time to get ready for bed. You have an early class tomorrow, and you need a good night's sleep to grow as tall as me when you become a teenager," Lucas responded to our son with kindness.
I couldn't hide the smile on my lips. I had been dreaming of this moment for a long time, even if it was the only gift and exchange for the pain Lucas had caused me. I was happy as long as my child was happy. There wasn't a mother who didn't dream of her child's happiness.
After we finished eating, Lucas announced that he would put our child to sleep. I immediately agreed without any objection. I would take care of cleaning up.
While wiping the plates to dry them faster, I was startled by a deep baritone voice speaking behind me. My heart skipped a beat with nervousness.
"Who were you with earlier?" he asked.
I couldn't help but raise an eyebrow at his question, as if he insulted me by insulting my friend. Setting aside the plates I was wiping, I turned to face him, wearing a serious expression.
"So what if I was with him? And what's it to you, Lucas? Don't you ever dare call him a bastard. You don't even know the person."
He looked at me with eyes that melted my heart. "Of course! Of course, I know that bastard! He's also a wealthy man. And he's interested in you."
I couldn't help but wonder why everyone saw malice in my friendship with Nick. And why was Lucas showing this anger? Shouldn't he care about me anymore? I couldn't comprehend his behavior. It was becoming increasingly difficult to understand this man. It felt like trying to solve a complex puzzle!
"Stop meddling in my affairs. So what if that's the case? Don't I have the right to pursue a relationship again? Look at yourself first! Then ask yourself if you have the right to complain," I couldn't help but speak up.
"Just because you went with that man, you forgot to pick up our child. What kind of mother are you?" He poked at me, fueling the fire in my already heated head. This guy really knows how to push my buttons!
"Now you get a taste of your own medicine! You probably know how it feels, considering what you did to me when you were with Giselle." I turned my back on him, knowing that I wouldn't gain anything from continuing the conversation.
I couldn't wrap my head around Lucas's behavior. He was acting completely contrary to my expectations. He should have been happy for me, now that I had found someone to love. Shouldn't he be even happier? After all, he would be freed from the bonds of our marriage.
Due to his strange behavior, my night turned into a sleepless one. My mind was exhausted, and deciphering Lucas's actions felt more challenging than my board exams for the CPA.
The next day, I woke up early as usual. It wasn't even six o'clock, and I was already in the kitchen. After ironing their uniforms, I cooked breakfast. Since it was still early, I prepared fried rice, sunny-side-up eggs, hotdogs, and bacon. Afterward, I took a quick shower. I still had some tasks to attend to at my business office branch.
Once I was dressed for work, I woke up my little boy and made sure he had breakfast right away. I would pack his lunch for later.
"Good morning, Daddy!" The boy cheerfully greeted Lucas, who seemed to have dressed himself properly.
"Morning, son," the man greeted him back, but his gaze towards me held a stern expression. It was I who chose to avoid eye contact; I had no time to dwell on his seemingly erratic behavior. He just didn't want me to initiate anything. I didn't have the luxury of deciphering his bipolar tendencies!
We headed straight to the kitchen, where our child ate his breakfast with gusto. Only the sound of utensils clinking against plates filled the room.
"I'll drop off our child," I said, and he simply nodded in agreement.
After we finished eating, Lucas kissed his son on the forehead, bidding him goodbye and mentioning that he might be heading to the office. Once I was certain he was gone, my son looked at me with a surprised expression.
"Is Daddy okay, Mom?" the boy asked, and I didn't immediately respond.
Lucas's stubbornness was likely due to what happened last night. If that wasn't half-crazy, I didn't know what was. His attitude was beyond comprehension!
"Maybe Daddy is just busy, or it could be work-related," I finally replied. My son simply nodded, letting go of the topic.
After our meal, I took my car out of the garage and had my son hop in before closing the gate. We were off to school.
My son excitedly recounted a story about his father's kindness during the ride. It was a completely new experience for him, and he couldn't contain his enthusiasm. In his whole life, he had only recently discovered that his father loved him too. I knew it was an overwhelming emotion for him.
When we arrived at the school, I escorted him to his classroom before heading back to my car. I immediately drove to the office to attend to my responsibilities. I was also planning to open another branch of my café near Khalifa's hotel. My business had gained a good reputation, thanks to the quality of our products and excellent customer service.
I was so engrossed in my work that I didn't realize lunchtime had arrived. I briefly visited the chef and barista to pick up the lunch boxes I had prepared. I would bring them to my son at school, and we would have lunch together.
Many kids stared at me, perhaps surprised by my slightly altered sense of style and grooming. They were used to seeing me looking like an old lady who had no knowledge of salons and combs. Maybe they found it strange that I put in some effort this time.
"Mom, look, my classmates are staring at you. You look beautiful, especially today. You resemble a real goddess." When did my son become so good at flattery? This kid would become a heartbreaker in no time!
Still young, but the beauty was evident! And the words he spoke were incredibly sweet. I felt content knowing that my son would grow up to be kind, respectful, and hardworking. That would be my greatest achievement as a mother and as someone with a purpose.
After their break, I accompanied my son back to his classroom before returning to the office to organize my tasks. I planned to visit a boutique later and purchase some new clothes. Dressing in the latest fashion trends would ensure that no one noticed any problems with my marriage!
I drove towards the mall and was greeted by Jozel, the mid-twenties manager of the boutique.
"Hello, ma'am!" Jozel approached me with a warm smile.
I asked for assistance in selecting newly purchased dresses, shirts, and outfits that would suit me. They helped me choose, and I left the boutique with bags of stylish clothes. They even complimented my new look. Well, maybe now I looked like a put-together person.
Afterward, I visited a renowned makeup store to purchase beauty products. I carefully selected lipstick shades and other makeup items. I also bought skincare products.
This day wouldn't end without making Lucas realize what kind of woman he was about to lose!
I was excited to see Lucas again but it was me who was surprised. The moment I entered the door, he announced that Nick would be coming soon. I didn't understand Lucas's motive and why he told Nick to come to the house. Oh no, I would in trouble. He disliked Nick so what was his reason for inviting him over?
"Seems like you're excited to see him again," said Lucas confidently as he sat not far away. "No way," I firmly denied because I wasn't really excited, I was even scared!
"Oh, there he is, the one you've been waiting for," said Lucas as he focused his eyes on the CCTV monitor in our house.
We went out together to let Nick inside the house. When he got off his motorcycle, his eyes were fixed on Lucas's hand holding my waist.
"Come on in," I said to Nick, and I could feel that he felt a bit awkward. "By the way, how are you?" I asked him as we walked towards the house.
"I'm okay," he replied curtly to my question.
"That's good then," I said.
When we entered the house, we didn't have any privacy because Lucas kept on watching us. It felt like we were back in ancient times, where the grandmother guarded her granddaughter while talking to a suitor. Several times I signaled to Lucas to leave us alone so we could talk properly. I wanted to clarify to Nick that there was no reason for him to come to my house.
"When did he start to care for you, Zara?" Nick asked about Lucas and me, even though he knew that Lucas could hear him.
"Just recently, but he's someone worth waiting for, you know," I said to him, and the smug Lucas was delighted to hear that. Oh well, he should be happy!
"I see. Well, I'm here for you. If he will hurt you, just call me," Nick whispered.
I didn't intend to, but what Nick said was just funny, so I burst into laughter. When I looked at Lucas, his face was no longer pleasant. Nick kept on muttering, and that must have annoyed Lucas.
"Thank you. But you and Lucas can talk and I'll just cook lunch for the three of us," I told Nick.
They both agreed but thirty minutes later, they were no longer in the living room. I looked for them, and but there nowhere to be found. I suddenly got worried. I felt that something strange was happening outside the house. So, without hesitation, I went out to see what was going on.
"Oh my God! What happened to both of you?" I shouted when I saw the two of them sizing each other up. "You're not kids anymore to act like that! Nick, you can leave now, and you, Lucas, go inside!"
When they still didn't stop, I couldn't control myself and shouted loudly. I felt like a superwoman! Only then did the two of them stop and looked at me angrily. Oh, they made it seem like it was my fault when they fought inside my property. How shameless!
"If you can't respect me as a woman, at least respect our home! Don't you dare show up in front of me while you still have bruises on your faces! Lucas, I'll get your things, and you'll stay in your hotel for now." I told him.
"Zara, why? This is also my house!" Lucas tried to negotiate with me, but I acted like I couldn't hear him.
I went inside and took Lucas's suitcase from my room and brought it downstairs. I saw how Nick grinned upon hearing him call me 'love. It's just sweet! When the guy entered the house, I noticed that he brought his suitcase with him.
"You could have left it outside since you're still leaving." I told him, but he didn't answer.
I didn't wait for him to speak because I thought his mouth might hurt. Maybe Nick hit him hard. I stayed silent while getting the first aid kit.
"I'll do it," he insisted, trying to snatch the cotton balls with alcohol that I prepared to clean the wounds on his face.
"You have so many bruises! You look like a child. Next time, don't let yourself be beaten, okay?" I suggested to him. "I'll get some ice for your bruises, gosh!" I said irritably before heading to the kitchen.
When I came back, the idiot was lying on the sofa, shirtless. When I saw his muscular chest, I couldn't help but drool. Why did he have to undress when he only had bruises on his face? So annoying, I would've thrown the ice I brought at him if he wasn't handsome. I placed the bowl of ice on the center table and looked at him.
"Do you really need to undress?" I asked Lucas.
"I also have bruises on my chest," he answered in a controlled voice, as if he was in pain.
"Where does it hurt? Here?" I asked him, gently pressing his side. Lucas yelped in pain. Inside my head, I vowed to make Nick pay for what he did to my husband! Lucas got bruised because of him.
Was there anything I can do when Lucas is in pain? I got angry earlier, but it quickly subsided. I didn't want to see him suffer, and I couldn't even contact that damn Nick to at least give him a piece of my mind on the phone. Maybe he anticipated my reaction, as his phone has been turned off since earlier.
"I know you're still mad at me, so I'll just sleep here," Lucas said to me, trying to elicit sympathy.
Of course, I'm naturally compassionate, so I felt sorry for him. It's also pitiful if he would sleep on the sofa. I don't have any available guest rooms downstairs since all my dogs have occupied them. Hmmm, there's a bed in the basement near the wine cellar, but it might be easier to bring him upstairs.
"I'm not really mad," I admitted to him. "I was just annoyed because you got into a fight with him," I said.
"He provoked me first!" He reasoned out.
"I know," I said. "Let's go upstairs so you can rest better," I said, helping him get up from the sofa.
"Can we sleep together?" The man asked.
"Of course," I said and finally, he smiled. I shook my head while we walked upstairs. "You know, you act like a child," I told him, referring to his fight with Nick.
"I just fought for what's mine," he replied.
"Oh please, don't make it sound like you really love me. Fyi, our marriage was a sham and you know it," I joked, but he suddenly pinched me on the side, making me yelp.
"Whether it was forced or not, you're still mine," Lucas declared.
"Really now? How about I go in alone, and you sleep in another room?" I warned him to be careful with his words. "Don't say anything offensive."
"Just kidding," Lucas said.
"I know. I'm just playing hard to get. You're too serious," I said.
When we entered the room, I helped him lie down and then removed his pants and shoes. He had already taken off his polo earlier. Damn Nick. Just when Lucas seemed to notice me, he showed up and acted like my hero.
"Where are you going?" Lucas asked when I stood up after undressing him.
Of course, I covered him with a blanket since the AC was cold, and I didn't want him to catch a cold. "Downstairs. I'll get some ice for your bruises," I said, and from his expression, I think he understood what I meant as he knew where Nick hit him earlier.
"Come back quickly," Lucas requested.
"Yes, Boss." I saluted him before leaving the room, and I saw him smile.
I quickly ran to the kitchen to get some ice. When I returned upstairs, I found Lucas looking like he was struggling to breathe. I frowned when I noticed his face looking distressed.
"Zara, I think something's wrong," he said, trying to endure the intense pain.
"What's wrong?" I asked him.
"I c-can't b-breathe!" he told me.
"What? You can't breathe? Oh no, are you dying? Lucas, come on! You're such a tease! Wait a moment, I'll call an ambulance," I tried to stay calm, but I was still panicking, so I asked Antoinette for help.
I asked her to call an ambulance for us, and she promised to do everything she could to get the ambulance to arrive in less than ten minutes.
I was not sure if I should trust Rhea, but I have confidence in my friend. I know she would her best to fulfill my request. While waiting for help, I went to Lucas and raised his head, propping him against my body.
"Lucas, just endure a little longer, okay?" I said and adjusted his position so that the pillows were piled on top of each other to support him. I needed to change his clothes before the ambulance would arrive.
I took a t-shirt and shorts from his luggage. I didn't have any trouble putting the t-shirt on him. The shorts were a bit challenging because I had to lift his butt, and Lucas was quite well-endowed.
"Thank you," he said, even though it was difficult for him.
I just smiled and then kissed his forehead.
"Don't worry, I won't leave you," I told him and gently caressed his chest to ease his pain. "Why did you have to do that? You were okay earlier, right? Just don't answer me now, Lucas."
"Thank you, Zara," he said.
"Shhhhh... don't talk for now," I said because he seemed to have a harder time whenever he spoke.
Lucas smiled and just gazed at me. Maybe he already realized my worth in his life. Inside my head, I vowed to make him how important he was to me even if he still has Giselle in his heart. What's wrong with me?
"The ambulance has arrived," I said when I heard the sirens outside the house. "Can you still walk, or do you need a stretcher?" I just asked, but why did he frown immediately?
When we arrived at the hospital, they attended to us promptly, and when the doctor saw the bruises on Lucas's body, he immediately requested an MRI. I was surprised why Lucas needed to have one.
I suddenly got worried. "Doc, will he be okay?" I asked the doctor, who seemed to be around the same age as Lucas, and I must say, they weren't far apart in terms of good looks.
"Of course, Ma'am. I just want to make sure that no organs were damaged due to the fracture," the doctor replied.
When the doctor assumed I was his wife, it felt good. But wait, I heard something from the doctor that I can't just ignore.
"Fracture? Where?" I asked curiously.
"In the ribs, that's why he's having trouble breathing. Anyway, don't worry. Everything will be fine," the doctor assured me.
"What?" I couldn't help but curse when I learned that Lucas had a fractured rib because of what Nick did.
Oh well! That damn guy will experience my revenge for beating Lucas up! Nick would soon realized that it was wrong to mess up with my husband. I knew he was just concerned about me but he had no right to beat my husband to a pulp! As soon as the doctor left, I took my phone and dialed Nick's number.
"Where are you?" I immediately asked Nick when he answered my call.
"I am in my place," he replied.
"Good. Don't go anywhere and wait for me there," I instructed and before he could complain, I ended the call and quickly left the hospital. The doctors would be checking Lucas for an hour or more and Nick's place was just nearby.
To be honest, I've wanted to hurt him since what happened to Lucas. Like, what the fuck! No one has the right to harm my husband regardless if he was concern with me. Damn, Nick really pissed me off.
"I'm in the parking lot now," I texted Nick as soon as I arrived.
"Okay, just a moment," he replied.
While waiting for him, I called the private nurse I hired to closely monitor Lucas's condition. "How is he doing, Miss?" I asked the nurse.
"He's still sleeping, Ma'am," she replied.
"That's good, but please call me immediately once he wakes up, okay? Thank you," I said before ending the call as I saw Nick coming towards me. I was seething with anger, especially as he ran towards me. I got out of the car to meet him... with a couple of slaps! Just kidding, of course, we're educated, so we should stay calm.
"Zara, why did you come here? Did you miss me?" He smiled while asking.
"I just came to ask why you had to do that?" I raised my voice.
"You're angry," the man said.
"Who wouldn't be angry with what you did? You beat up my husband!" I said, raising my voice.
"He was never a good husband to you, Zara. Why do you care so much about the bastard who flaunts his mistress everywhere? Ask yourself, beside me and Antoinette, does anybody else know about your true relationship with Lucas Blackwood?"
"Regardless of the circumstances, Nick, you don't have the right to hurt him," I reprimanded his callousness.
"You are really blind when it comes to Lucas Blackwood. When are you going to wake up that he will never love you the way he love his girlfriend?"
"He is my father's son," I said, although, it seemed stupid to even mention that.
"Do you still love him?"
"I have always loved him. Anyway, let's stop talking about my feelings for him because it wasn't the reason why I wanted to see you. I just want to let you know that if Lucas has any damaged organs, I won't be able to make you laugh or I might even have you arrested," I said in a long speech in front of him.
"Damaged organs? Why? What does it have to do with me?" The man asked, confused.
"What does it have to do with you? You're the only one who beat him up," I said.
"I didn't beat him up. We just had a fistfight because of a misunderstanding," Nick made excuses.
"He wasn't beaten up, but he has fractured ribs. I don't know about you! You know that you're more trained physically, so you should have adjusted! Look at what happened, he is in the hospital right now," I warned him.
"Zara, please, I didn't mean to hurt him that way" Nick said, trying to hold my hand, but I quickly hid it behind my back.
"Maybe being on good terms isn't right for us. Maybe being enemies suits us better. But just remember, if anything happens to my husband, I'll hold you responsible!" I warned him before turning around, but I heard him call my name, so I paused briefly in my walk.
"I don't want you to be angry with me," Nick said.
"I don't want that either, considering what we've been through, but when it comes to Lucas, that's a different story," I said to Nick.
"Do you love him that much?" The man asked.
"Yes," I answered without hesitation, and then I noticed someone familiar coming toward our direction. "Wait, is that Giselle?"
"Yes, the one and only woman that your husband loves," he replied.
"Did you really have to rub it in?"
"To wake you up from your dreams, Zara. It has been six years, and yet you still remained naïve and stupid when it comes to that bastard!"
"It's none of your business, Nick. So please, stop meddling in my life with Lucas. We were trying our best for our son's sake," I told him.
"You were trying hard, but that man? No, I don't think so," he continued to insult my husband.
"Mind your own business, Nick. I told you earlier to start praying now! If something happens to Lucas, I might kill you," I said.
"Will you really kill me because of that bastard? I am your best friend, Zara!"
"But Lucas is my husband and that's where my loyalty is," I replied before walking away.