The Billionaire’s Regret

Alessa has a peaceful loveless marriage which she was okay with. She believed her love was enough for her and her husband. Everything was going great until her husband’s first love returned carrying the heir to the Hart’s Empire. In a flash, Alessa was signing divorce papers. She was humiliated by him and his family and was thrown out to suffer. Alessa left the city and swore to return and get revenge on the Hart family. Six years later, Alessa returns as a billionaire. Now, it was her husband’s turn to chase her…. Chapter 1 “Why not pay your husband a visit at work tomorrow? He has a surprise for you, be there at 2:00 pm.” Alessa read the text over and over again. It was an anonymous text, she got the text before going to bed last night. She read it again and got lost in thoughts, what could the surprise be? Who sent the text? Is this something good? The elevator doors opened snapping her out of her thoughts, she stepped out and walked down the hallway. She was about to find out what the surprise could be, she was at her husband’s office already. She opened the door as she got to it. Alessa froze at the sight in front of her, a lady was seated on her husband’s lap wrapping her arms around his neck and kissing him. They noticed her presence and pulled away from each other, Alessa’s eyes widened in shock seeing who the lady was. His ex-girlfriend and first love. Lydia. “Bryan, who is she?” Lydia asked, pretending not to know who Alessa was. Bryan sighed and nodded at Lydia, she stood up and he walked to Alessa who was still in shock. “What are you doing here?” He asked but Alessa didn't give him a response. She was too stunned to speak. “You… you are cheating on me.” She stuttered as she glanced at Lydia. “Why are you here?” He asked again. “Is this why you have been missing dinner for the past two months?” She asked with tears welling up in her eyes. “Go home Alessa, we will talk later.” “Bryan, I... “ “Get out.” He ordered. Alessa stared at him in shock, doesn't he feel bad at all? Alessa bit her lip and blinked back her tears, she nodded slowly before walking out of his office. Three years of being in a loveless marriage was something Alessa was okay with because she had hoped that one day, Bryan would love her back. Their love was based on a contract between their families, despite it being a contracted marriage, Alessa loved Bryan. She is aware Bryan doesn't love her back because their marriage led to him and Lydia breaking up and blames her for it despite it being their parent's idea. Despite all these, everything has been going great between them until two months ago when he started skipping dinners and getting home late. She had a feeling something was wrong but she ignored it and believed he was just busy with work. Alessa got home and cried all day. After giving it so much thought, she decided to let it go whether he explained it to her or not. She loves him and she would do anything to keep their marriage going. After waiting for a long time, he finally got home when it was past midnight. Alessa was waiting for him in the living room. She smiled at him but he ignored her and headed up the stairs. Alessa trailed behind him till they got to his room. “You are back.” She said with a smile. He ignored her again and walked to his table, he picked up a brown file and turned to her. Before Alessa could speak, he stretched the file to her. “What is this?” She giggled as she opened it. Her smile faded immediately seeing what was in it. “I can't keep doing this Alessa. You saw it yourself, Lydia is back and we are together. It’s about time we divorced, this isn't working out.” He said. Alessa looked up at him, and slowly she laughed. “Oh, you almost got me there.” She said amidst laughter. She slowly stopped laughing seeing the stern look he had on. “Oh my God, you are serious.” She mumbled. Immediately tears welled up in her eyes. “Why are we getting a divorce?” She raised her voice a little as tears blurred her vision. “I don't love you.” He replied. Alessa's lips parted in shock, she knew he didn't love her but he had never said it to her. “I… I know but… “ She trailed off as she felt herself choke on her words. She had nothing to say, she couldn't think of anything. She knows how much he loves Lydia, he couldn't love her back due to how much he loves Lydia. “She is pregnant too.” He added. Alessa felt her heart shatter. That was the main reason. Apart from them living without love, she couldn't get pregnant either. It's not her fault she is barren, her heart gets more broken every month when she gets her period. She badly wanted to get pregnant too. “I… I... “ Alessa paused as she sniffed. It’s okay Alessa, you don't have to say anything, just sign the papers. I will send you some money to start afresh and… “ “I don't want your money.” She cut him off in tears. “And I don't want a divorce either.” She pleaded. “You have to sign it, Lydia will be moving in tomorrow.” He replied. Alessa stared at him in disbelief before looking down at the divorce papers. His signature was there already. Alessa whimpered as her hand trembled, she can't do this. She has no life without him, she gave everything up just to get married to him. Her parents will murder her if she goes back to them, they are her step-parents. That is why it was so easy for them to trade her up. “No, no, no.” She cried and looked up at him. “We can make this work out, please. Don't kick me out. She can move in here with us, I don't mind. My love is enough for both of us, please don't do this to me, Bryan.” She pleaded as she moved closer to him. His expression was cold, it was obvious he had made up his mind and nothing could change it. “Bryan.” She called and held his arms. “I don't want to get a divorce. I love you.” She pleaded. He stared at her for a few seconds before pulling away from her. “Crying won't help the matter. My mind is already made up.” “Sign the papers, Alessa. You have until tomorrow to leave my house. Chapter 2 Alessa felt so much pain as she stared at him, he had really made up his mind. He really can't wait to get rid of her. “Are you ready to sign the papers?” He asked, she nodded in response. He handed her a pen. She lifted her hand to sign the papers when she saw lives flashed before her eyes. This will ruin her, her parents will reject her and she will have nowhere to go. “I… I can't sign this.” She stuttered and dropped the papers. She looked up at him again in tears. “Please, Bryan. We can make this work, I will get pregnant. I will give you babies, please.” She pleaded and tried moving closer to him but he pulled away from her. “Sign the papers Alessa. This is good for both of us, you will finally get to find something meaningful to do with your life, I am back with my first love and she is pregnant. Everything will be fine again.” Despite his hurtful words to her, Alessa wasn't ready to sign the papers. She couldn't imagine life without him. “I can’t. I’m sorry.” She whispered and turned to leave when Bryan suddenly pulled her roughly and pinned her to the wall. “You will sign those papers right now!” He yelled at her. Alessa’s eyes widened in shock as she trembled in fear. “Did you hear me?” He snapped again and pinned her harder to the wall. Alessa nodded as she whimpered in pain. He pulled away from her and handed her the papers, with trembling hands, Alessa signed them. She had no choice. Despite their marriage problems, he has never yelled at her. It was surprising to her, it was like she didn't know the man in her presence anymore. Immediately she signed them, Bryan’s face lit up. Alessa sniffed as tears streamed down her eyes, does he hate her that much? “Thank you.” He sighed in relief before looking away from her. “You have ten percent of my properties and… “ “I don't want anything from you.” She cut him off, raising her voice a little. She was so mad and sad. She was so mad he was okay with everything and he got violent with her over it. She knows he doesn't love her but she had no idea he hated her this much. He understands how hurt she was but that won't change anything because he doesn't care. All that mattered to him was the divorce and how he would take care of Lydia. “Good, you have until tomorrow evening to leave my house because Lydia is moving in.” He added. Alessa stared at him for a few seconds hoping he would say something else but he didn't. They kept staring at each other. “Do you need anything else?” He asked. She shook her head in tears and rushed out of his room with a heavy heart. She is no longer Mrs. Hart. What is she going to do? She has no life except for this. Her parents will make it worse for her. Her marriage to Bryan is the reason they are rich, now that she isn't married to him anymore, things will be bad. She regrets she never had any other life apart from being married to Bryan. Alessa cried herself to sleep that night, hoping she would wake up and realize it was all a nightmare. Alessa slowly opened her eyes and was surprised to see Bryan sitting on her bed, she sat up immediately as she felt her heart race. ‘Did he change his mind already?’ She thought. Before she could speak, he stood up. “Get ready in ten minutes. We are going to the Hart’s Estate.” He ordered before walking out. The Hart’s Estate? His parent's estate? Why are they going there? Are they aware of the divorce already? She rushed out of the bed and got ready hurriedly. She headed out of her room and found him waiting in the living room. He didn't say a word to her as he walked out of the house. Alessa sighed and trailed behind him. The drive to his parent's estate was silent, as they arrived, Alessa’s heart started to race in fear. His family has been giving her a hard time because she couldn't get pregnant. Is their sudden visit about it? “Bryan, why are we here?” She asked nervously as the car pulled over. Bryan didn't give her a response, he got out of the car. Alessa exhaled heavily before going out too. He walked into the house ahead of her and she trailed behind him. They got into the house and Alessa was surprised to see the room a little crowded. ‘Are they having a party?’ She thought. Before Alessa could ask Bryan what was going on, he walked towards his parents. Alessa also walked after him. “Bryan.” His mother called happily and hugged him. Alessa got to them and bowed and as usual, they all ignored her. It has always been like that, she is useless to them since she couldn't give them an heir. She felt embarrassed and faked a smile to cover up the tears that were welling up in her eyes. “Mrs. Hart.” A cheerful voice called. Alessa turned to see Lydia walking towards them. Surprisingly, Bryan’s mother hugged her happily. His father also smiled at her. “Hey.” Bryan said to her and she kissed him. Alessa’s eyes widened in shock, what the hell was going on? Everyone is aware that they already had a divorce? Do his parents support it too? Did Bryan bring her here just to humiliate her? “And how are you feeling? I hope our baby is doing fine?” Mrs. Hart asked, caressing her stomach. Alessa blinked back her tears, all this because she couldn't get pregnant? They didn't seem to notice her presence anymore, she became irrelevant. With a heavy heart and watery eyes, Alessa was about to walk away when Mrs. Hart stopped her. “Oh, you. Why not join the maids in serving the guests?” “What?” Chapter 3 Bryan avoided looking at Alessa as his mother talked to her, he paid attention to Lydia because she was all that mattered to him. She has signed the divorce papers, she isn't his wife anymore so he has no business with her. He smiled at Lydia and she kissed him again, he was happy he was back with her and his family supported it this time. Of course they would, she is carrying their heir. He glanced at Alessa, he could see how hard she was fighting her tears. She walked away when she couldn't hold them back anymore. “You don't have to worry about her.” Lydia said to him and he nodded with a smile. “Come, my dear, you should rest.” Mrs. Hart said to her and Lydia smiled happily, same as Bryan. They are the perfect couple. While they were still together, they were the best couple in the city. Everyone was always rooting for them. The city was in awe when they found out about his marriage to Alessa. They talked about it for a long time before it died down. He never loved Alessa. He couldn't deny the fact that he felt a little pity for Alessa, she was a good woman and the years of being married to her were peaceful. He is aware of how much she loves him and always tries to be on his good side during the years of their marriage. He has tried to love her back too but it was really hard for him because he was still in love with Lydia and now she is back in his life. She had to relocate when he got married to Alessa, she was too hurt to be around and they broke up. He was surprised when he saw her two months back, she told him she had a business in the city and she would be around for a while. Everything happened so fast, they connected again and the next thing, she got pregnant. He informed his parents when she got pregnant, it was their idea and Lydia’s idea to divorce Alessa. They agreed she was useless after all. Lydia wanted him to get rid of Alessa, she told him she wouldn't be fully back into his life if he didn't divorce her. He didn't want that to happen so he listened and let Alessa go. He had no idea why his parents asked him to bring Alessa along with him when the party was a welcome party for Lydia. Were they trying to make the divorce official? Is that normal? “Bryan.” His mother called as she held Lydia’s hands with a wide smile. “We should be preparing for the wedding, right?” She asked. Bryan nodded in agreement. “It would be the best in the city. We have to make an announcement.” His father added and they all nodded in agreement. Alessa walked away from them when she couldn't fight back her tears, she walked out of the house with a broken heart. She was about to walk away when she thought about how messed up her life would be. She can't give everything up, she has no life without Bryan. Her parents won't welcome her back, she has nowhere to go. She tried so hard to resist the urge to rush back in and cry to Bryan. She took a final look at the house before walking out. ~ The party came to an end, the family welcomed Lydia properly. Lydia and Bryan headed to one of his houses to spend the night together. “Today was fun.” Lydia said, wrapping her arms around his neck. “Hmm.” Bryan nodded his head and wrapped his arms around her waist. She was about to speak when he caught her off with a kiss, Lydia giggled as she reciprocated. He spun her around and pinned her to the bed, he kissed her down to her neck. He took off his shirt as he kissed her. He took off Lydia’s shirt too, he ran his hands on her body and she let out a moan. When it was about to get intense, Bryan’s phone rang snapping them out of their romance. He groaned as Lydia pulled away from him. “I will just ignore it.” He said as he kissed her again. The phone rang again. “I think you should answer it.” Lydia said, breathing heavily as she pushed him away slightly. “Fuck.” He moaned as he picked up his phone and furrowed his brows seeing it was their head maid. Why the hell was she calling? “What is it?” He asked immediately after he picked up the call. “Sir, it’s your wife. She passed out.” She said. Bryan could hear the hint of fear in his voice. Bryan found it odd, she was supposed to be out of his house already. Was she up to something? “Tell the chauffeur to take her to the hospital. I am busy.” He said and ended the call immediately. “Who was that?” Lydia asked as she wrapped her arms around him. “No one.” Bryan replied. Just as they were about to continue with their romance, Bryan’s phone rang again. “You’ve got to be kidding me.” Lydia groaned as Bryan looked at the caller. It was his mother calling. Why was his mother calling? “Mum, I am kind of busy right now.” He said as he picked up the call. “You need to be at the hospital now.” She said. “What? Why? What's wrong?” He asked. He was more confused than worried. “Why do I have to be at the hospital?” “Well, apparently your ex-wife seems to be putting on a drama. Dr. Wells said it's really serious and you have to be there. I am on my way there too.” She said and ended the call. Bryan was confused, Alessa was fine before she left the party. “Is something wrong?” Lydia asked. “Not really. I just got a call that Alessa is in the hospital and I need to be there. I don't know why though.” “Oh, I will come with you then.” She replied and started to get dressed. “What?” Bryan muttered. “I am coming with you.” “I don't think that is a good idea.” “Why?” She asked, furrowing her brows. “I just think it will be a little weird. After what happened at the party, she is my ex-wife… “ “I am coming with you Bryan and there is nothing you can do to stop me.” Chapter 4 Alessa slowly opened her eyes and looked around wondering where she was. It was an unfamiliar room. She tried to recall what happened and it all came flooding in, she was packing her things when she suddenly felt dizzy and passed out. She was about to sit up when the door opened and Dr. Wells walked in. Their family doctor. “Mrs. Hart.” He called with a smile and Alessa faked a smile at him. “How did I get here?” She asked as she slowly sat up. “One of your maids brought you in, ma’am.” He replied and she nodded. His smile was weird which made Alessa curious. What was going on? “It’s good to see you again, Mrs. Hart.” He said. Alessa faked a smile. If only he knew she wasn't bearing that last name again. He kept smiling which was starting to freak her out. “Is everything okay?” Alessa couldn't help but ask. “Congratulations, Mrs. Hart. You are pregnant.” He announced. Alessa felt everything around her pause as his words echoed in her head. She thought she heard wrong so she let out a chuckle and shook her head. “What?” “You are pregnant. You are four weeks pregnant.” He said. Tears welled up in Alessa’s eyes as she heard the news, she felt so relieved. Like the weight of the world on her shoulders has been lifted. This could change a lot, this means Bryan will take her back and his family will love her again. The best part of it all, she isn't barren like she thought she was. “Oh my God.” She smiled out tears and chuckled. “Can you call my mother-in-law?” She asked. “Why? I can call your husband.” Dr. Wells replied, finding her request odd. “No. Call my mother-in-law instead. Tell her it's really urgent and she needs to be here with Bryan.” She said and the doctor nodded. “No problem, I will do that now.” He replied with a smile and walked out of the room. Alessa sighed in relief and smiled, she wiped her tears and placed her hand on her stomach. “Finally.” She whispered to herself. After what seems like forever to Alessa, Bryan’s mother arrived. She walked into the ward and Alessa sat up immediately. “What is this about? You seem fine.” She said and rolled her eyes. Alessa cleared her throat and was about to respond when the door opened revealing Dr. Wells Behind him was Bryan and Lydia. Alessa felt her heart shatter seeing her, he really had to bring her. Is he trying to humiliate her at every chance he gets? She shrugged off the thought, after all, she is pregnant, once she breaks the news to them, everything will be fine again. “Dr. Wells, what is going on?” Bryan asked as he walked towards the bed. Lydia locked her arms to him and held onto him tightly. She was glaring hard at Alessa. “I believe she wants to announce the news herself.” The doctor replied, nodding at Alessa. “I’m pregnant.” She said, staring at Bryan. His eyes widened in shock. “What?” He asked. “I’m pregnant. Four weeks pregnant.” She said again with a smile. His mother let out a chuckle. “I didn't know people can become four weeks pregnant in hours.” She scoffed. “She isn't joking ma’am. She is pregnant.” Dr. Wells confirmed and Bryan looked at him before looking back at Alessa. She was waiting for him to say something, her heart raced in anticipation. “Who is the father?” He asked and Alessa felt her heart shatter. Her smile faded. Did he really just ask that? That is all he could say! “What? Who is the father?” Alessa asked back. “Yes. I haven't been coming home regularly so you are not supposed to be pregnant. And now that you are, who is the father?” He asked. Alessa blinked rapidly as tears welled up in her eyes. He is really serious with his question. “Bryan.” She called with her voice breaking as a tear rolled out of her eyes. “Is this because he divorced you? Is that why you want to hold him down with this?” His mother asked. “I will be outside. Excuse me.” Dr. Wells said and walked out. It's a family matter that he shouldn't be involved in. “Bryan, it's yours. You know it is, you know.” Alessa said in fear as tears streamed down her cheeks. Lydia had a smile on her face as she watched. She was enjoying the show. “Shut… “ “Mum, please. Can you excuse us for a few minutes?” Bryan cut his mother off and she rolled her eyes before walking out of the room. “You too, Lydia.” He added. She looked at him but he gave her an assuring look. She pecked his lips before walking out of the room too. Alessa couldn't bear the pain she was feeling. “Bryan.” She called softly when the room was empty. He moved closer to the bed and leaned to her. He stared at her eyes and she held his gaze as tears filled her ocean eyes. “Alessa. I really don't care if it's mine or not. We already had a divorce, we both signed those papers, and we are not together anymore.” “This means I am finally going to give you an heir.” “Lydia is giving me an heir already and I love her.” He replied bluntly. “But it's yours, Bryan.” She whimpered. “And I am telling you I don't care about it.” “Bryan, don't do this to me. What am I supposed to do?” She cried silently. “Get rid of it. Or pin it on someone else.” He replied and she stared at him in disbelief. How can he say that? What the hell has gotten into him? She knows he is a good man, why is he suddenly being this way? “Why would you say such a thing to me? It's me, Bryan.” “I know Alessa and I don't care. I don't love you or care about you Alessa, you mean nothing to me and you never will.” Chapter 5 Taking a final look at Alessa, Bryan walked out of the ward leaving her in tears. Alessa burst into another round of tears and cried loudly. Everything kept getting worse the moment she thought it would get better. What is she supposed to do? Where is she supposed to go? She was so sure her parents wouldn't accept her back. She was also sure they would have heard the news. Dr. Wells walked back into the room, Alessa hurriedly wiped her tears as she looked up at him. He gave her a look but Alessa forced a smile. “I am really sorry about this ma’am. If there is anything I can do to help, I will.” He said and Alessa nodded. He is their family doctor, he isn't a stranger so he knows a lot. “Can you get me a ride?” She asked and sniffed. “Of course, ma’am.” ~ Alessa sat in the car and watched the chauffeur drive and at the same time, she was fighting her tears. She was in the car the doctor arranged for her and as dumb as it sounds, she was heading to Bryan’s mansion. For the last time, she just wanted to try her luck. If she can talk to Bryan, she could plead with him and he might accept her back. She arrived at the mansion and got out of the car, she watched the car drive off before proceeding to enter. As she got to the gate, she was stopped by the security. “I’m sorry ma’am. Mr. Hart asked me not to let you in again. He also dropped this saying they were your only belongings.” He said as he handed her her phone and purse. With trembling hands, Alessa slowly took them. “Can you please let me in?” She asked as tears welled up in her eyes again. The security was about to respond but he was interrupted by a voice. It was Lydia’s voice. She showed up and Alessa felt a lump in her throat. The security bowed and walked away leaving both of them. “Do you want anything? The last time I checked, you don't live here anymore and you are supposed to be at least five feet away from this mansion.” She said proudly. Alessa nodded as she ignored everything she said. All she wants is to see Bryan. “I want to see Bryan. Can you please tell him I am here?” She asked, trying so hard to not make the tears drop and her voice cracking. “I don't think Bryan wants to see you, he made the rule himself.” She replied with a smile and Alessa nodded. Forcefully, she wanted to make her way in but Lydia pushed her roughly and she fell. “Tch. So pathetic. You should accept it bitch. You have no place in this house anymore. You lost and I won. Now, get off this property before I get the guards to throw you out.” She threatened and closed the gate before walking away. Alessa sniffed as she slowly got off the floor, she didn't know what hurt more. The bruise on her arm or the pain in her heart. It really was over, she lost Bryan and everything. She had nowhere else to go except a place, her parent's house. She knows they won't accept her but she could at least try. With the last dollar bill in her purse, she took a cab to her parent’s house. She arrived and headed to the front door. Just as she was about to press the doorbell when she got to the front door, the door opened revealing her mother. “Mum.” Alessa called softly. She had a stern look on, it was obvious the news about her divorce had already gotten to them. “And what are you doing here?” She asked. “I… I... “ Alessa stuttered as she thought of what to say. “Do you know the news trending in the city right now?” She asked and folded her arms. “The news about your divorce is what is trending right now. Everyone in the city knows about it. The Harts cut your father off in every business deal they had, you have ruined our family.” “Mum, I’m sorry. I didn't... “ “I don't want to hear it. Until you settle with your husband, you are not welcome here. You are a disgrace Alessa. You have always been a disgrace.” She said and Alessa started to cry. “Please, let me in. I have nowhere to go, I really don't know where to go. Please, mum.” “Don't call me mum. I am not your mother.” She snapped at Alessa and she flinched. “We took you in and raised you, the least you could do is stay married and we stay rich but you just couldn't because you are nothing but a failure.” Alessa whimpered as she watched her mother insult her. “You don't have a home here, get out.” Immediately, Alessa fell to her knees. “Please let me in. I’m pregnant.” She cried and her mother scoffed. “Go to hell with it!” She cursed and slammed the door in her face. Alessa froze as the realization hit her. She really has nowhere to go! No one to turn to! She has nothing and she is pregnant! She started to panic and cry, she got up and breathed heavily as she made her way out of the house. She tried to stay calm but all the hurtful words said to her came rushing in. She was glad it was dark, no one could see her crying. She made her way to the streets and looked around. Her tears kept falling, she had no idea of what to do. It all happened so fast. Twenty-four hours ago she was a wife to a billionaire but now, she is nothing! Chapter 6 With a heavy heart, Alessa kept walking down the streets. She had no idea what to do, the thought of her ending up dead scared her so much. She looked around the streets and whimpered as she felt her heart ache. Her stomach grumbled and she stared down at it. “I’m pregnant, I’m pregnant,” she muttered. She wrapped her arms around her stomach with tears streaming down her face. The thought of her killing her child clouded her mind. Without thinking twice, she pulled out her phone to call Bryan. It was a dumb thing to do but she didn't care, she had no means of surviving. With trembling hands, she dialed Bryan’s number. She placed the phone to her ear and muttered a little prayer for him to pick up. Bryan didn't answer the call, she called repeatedly but still got no response. It was starting to get really cold and cloudy, and before Alessa could realize what was going on, it started to rain. She rushed to a shed and wrapped her arms around herself, Next to her was a woman. Alessa looked away from her and exhaled heavily. A thought popped into her head and she turned to the woman again. “Excuse me, can I make a quick phone call with your phone?” she asked. The woman stared at her without giving her a response. “Please.” She added. The woman nodded a little, pulled out her phone, and handed it to her. Alessa punched in Bryan’s numbers immediately, dialed them, and placed it to her ear as it started to ring. Bryan picked up immediately, and Alessa felt her heart sink. He was ignoring her. She shrugged off the thoughts, she needed his help. “Hello?” he called, Alessa blinked back her tears as she spoke. “Bryan,” she called. Her voice betrayed her and it came out like a whisper. “Alessa?” he called back. “Bryan, I have been calling you,” she said with her voice trembling as tears clouded her eyes. “I am busy Alessa. Why are you calling me?” “I am stranded. I don't have anywhere to go and I don't have any money on me,” she replied and sniffed. “So?” he asked. Alessa felt her heart shatter at his response. “Bryan, I... “ “Alessa, we are not married anymore, whatever you do or go through is none of my business. I don't care about you,” he replied. “Bryan,” Alessa whispered. “Who is that?” Alessa heard Lydia ask but it sounded distant. “I have to go, don't call me again.” “No, no. Bryan please, it's raining, I don't have anywhere to go and I am pregnant. Bryan, I’m scared.” Alessa cried. “Babe, who is it?” she heard Lydia ask again. “It's no one, love,” Bryan replied. “Goodbye, Alessa.” “No, Bryan… “ Alessa trailed off as the call ended. She turned to the woman and faked a smile as she handed the phone back to her. The woman stared at her with pity. Alessa looked away and stared at her feet. She started to cry. She slowly walked away from the shed and started to cry out loud in the rain. Lives flashed before her eyes, and her hands trembled in fear and cold. She had no one and nothing. How the hell is she going to survive? ~ It's been a few days since Alessa went from being a billionaire’s wife to a nobody. The worst few days of her life. She started to live from hand to mouth on the street. She worked around just to earn a little to eat. She had no shelter yet, and she fell asleep anywhere she could find. “Why aren't you doing anything? These foods aren't going to serve themselves!” a voice snapped her out of her thoughts. She looked up to see her angry boss. “I’m, I’m sorry.” she hurriedly apologized and grabbed the plates on the counter. She walked to the table where the order was placed and slowly placed the meal on it. She bowed to them a little before going to take another order. She never thought she would end up in the slums, she used to give orders to people now she was being ordered around. After serving the guests, there was nothing to do anymore. She exhaled heavily as she stood in the middle of the room, waiting to be called. The restaurant is a local one downtown. She moved to an area where no one would recognize her. Being Bryan’s wife made her get on television a lot, she couldn't imagine the shame she would go through if she were recognized. Suddenly, her boss turned on the television and everyone paid attention to it, including Alessa. It was a wedding being streamed live. “Hey, excuse me.” A person at a table called Alessa. She looked away from the television and rushed towards him. “Yes? How can I help you?” She asked with a smile as she got to him. “I didn't order this.” He snapped at her and she flinched a little. “I ordered pasta, not this trash.” He yelled again. “I… I am so sorry. I will fix it immediately.” Alessa stuttered as she hurriedly carried the plates. “It's Bryan Hart’s wedding.” She heard the guests say and she froze. She turned to the television and stared at it. Lydia was walking down the aisle in the most beautiful wedding dress she had ever seen. Alessa felt her heart shatter as she stared at it. Alessa watched as she got to the altar and Bryan’s smile grew. Tears clouded her eyes as she watched. Bryan started to say his vows, and Alessa couldn't bear the pain of hearing how genuine he sounded. He has never said those words to her, he never loved her and they never had a wedding. Just a contract. The plates fell from Alessa’s hands and she flinched, She stared down at them. Before she could do anything, she felt a hard slap on her face. She placed her hand on her cheek as she stared at her boss in disbelief. “You will pay for those, bitch!” She yelled at her. “I’m sorry,” Alessa whispered as she bent to pick up the broken pieces. One of the pieces cut her hand and she hissed in pain as blood gushed out of it. Alessa cried helplessly, she didn't know what hurt more. The pain in her hand from the broken pieces, her cheeks due to the slap, or her broken heart watching the love of her life and the father to her unborn child getting married to the woman of his dreams. Chapter 7 FOUR MONTHS LATER “Thank you, Rico,” Alessa said with a smile as he stretched her income towards her, and she smiled a little as she took it. “You are welcome and this is for the baby,” he added and gave her a few bucks. Alessa smiled and nodded at him. “Thank you,” she muttered. The past four months have been really hard for Alessa, she did multiple jobs to survive. She finally got a little place to stay a month ago after sleeping on the streets for three months. Things started to get better a bit when she started working for Rico, who owns a little grocery store close to where she lives. He hired her immediately after she came begging for a job because she was pregnant. Alessa’s bump was now visible. She cries every night when she thinks about how her life changed so fast months ago. She couldn't get over what happened and she never thinks she will. Moving to the rural areas of the city made things easier for her, not everyone could recognize her, and the few that did mocked her of her situation. Rico knows about her story, she told him everything that happened and he felt so bad for her. The cheers outside the store caught Alessa’s attention. Everyone was running which confused Alessa. “Rico, do you know what is going on?” she asked as she turned to him. “Oh, you didn't hear about it?” Rico asked and she furrowed her brows, confused. “Hear about what?” she asked back. “Your ex… Mr. Hart is coming to the central hospital today. Judging by the present situation, he is there already, having a press conference.” He replied and Alessa’s eyes widened in shock. Before Rico could speak, Alessa rushed out of the store and ran towards the central hospital which wasn't so far from the store. She had no idea why she was heading there but she was sure of one thing, she just wanted to see Bryan. Her heart was racing as she ran. She couldn't wait to see him, despite the pain he put her through, she still loves him. She isn't even mad at him for what he did. If she gets a chance to see him today and he sees her state, maybe he will take her back. He can't let her suffer, he isn't a bad man. Alessa was willing to let go of everything if he tried to talk to her, she was ready to ignore the pain she had gone through these past few months. Alessa got to the central hospital, and he exhaled heavily as she saw the crowd in front of it. She took in a deep breath before entering the crowd, and somehow, she made her way to the front. There he was, looking handsome as always in his well-tailored tuxedo. Tears welled up in her eyes as her heart raced in excitement, She was happy to see him. He seemed to be rounding off with his speech and Alessa felt bad that she would only see him for a few minutes. He ended his speech and the crowd cheered, Alessa also clapped her hands. He was about to walk away when his eyes fell on Alessa, he froze as she held his gaze. Alessa felt her heart beat rapidly as he stared at her. She was surprised he saw her. Alessa could swear she saw a flicker of emotion in his eyes but they disappeared almost immediately. The crowd was starting to notice, including the reporters. Bryan hurriedly looked away and his guards escorted him away. Alessa exhaled heavily as a tear rolled down her cheeks. She sniffed and wiped it off immediately. The crowd slowly started to leave. In minutes, the front of the hospital was empty but Alessa remained in a spot. She could bring herself to move, she kept thinking about what just happened. The look in his eyes, the long stare, she couldn't get everything out of her head! ‘Did he miss me?’ ‘Does he care now?’ ‘Does he regret his actions?’ Different thoughts kept popping into her head. Alessa snapped out of her thoughts after a few minutes. She turned away from the hospital to head back into the street. “Ma’am.” “Ma’am.” She heard a voice call repeatedly, and she turned to see a man whom she recognized immediately. It was Bryan’s bodyguard. Alessa was confused. “Excuse me, ma’am, Mr. Hart wants to see you,” he said. Alessa’s eyes widened in shock. “Me?” “Yes, ma’am. Please come with me.” Alessa nodded immediately without a second thought, and she followed the guard into the hospital. As they walked in, Alessa felt her heart do a happy dance. He cares after all! He is going to take her back! Finally, her suffering has come to an end, and she will be happy again! The guard took her to a private wing in the hospital and stopped in front of a door. “You can go in ma’am,” he said. She nodded then opened the door. Bryan was standing in the middle of the room with his hands in his pants pocket, he looked up at her as she walked in. “Bryan,” she called and rushed to hug him but he took a step back from her. She paused as he did. “You… you stink and you look dirty.” he said and Alessa mouthed an ‘oh’ before letting out a nervous chuckle. “Yeah. Sorry about that,” she muttered and wiped her hands on her clothes. Alessa looked down at herself in the process, she was in ripped jeans and a dirty sweatshirt. “Sit,” he ordered and she slowly nodded as she took a seat on one of the chairs, he sat opposite her too. Alessa stared down at her fingers and played with them nervously. “I… “ “I forgive you, Bryan, you don't have to apologize. I forgive you.” she cut him off and looked up at him Bryan furrowed his brows confused. “Apologize? I am not here to apologize to you,” he replied. “Huh?” “I called you here to warn you to stay away from me,” he said. Alessa felt her heart shatter into pieces. “Wh… what?” she asked with her voice trembling. “That conference was live and you almost ruined it. You weren't supposed to show up.” Alessa’s lips parted in shock, and she shook her head in disbelief as tears welled up in her eyes. “I look dirty and I stink. I am struggling to survive which you can see and this is all you can say to me?” she asked. Bryan ignored her statement. “I am here to make you a deal. I will give you money to start a new life outside the country, you… “ “No, no, no. I don't want your money.” she shook her head as tears streamed down her cheeks. “Bryan, this is not fair. I am pregnant with your child and you are treating me like trash. I barely survived the past few months. Why are you doing this?” Alessa cried. Bryan kept a straight look as he watched her cry. “Bryan, please.” Alessa fell to her knees and crawled to him. She held his feet and Bryan stared down at her. “You have to take me back, take me back Bryan. I don't mind living like a slave in your mansion, I will do anything to get off the streets, please.” she cried as she held his feet. “Look at me,” he ordered but she didn't look up at him. “Look at me Alessa,” he ordered again and she looked up at him in tears. Bryan held her gaze watching how her ocean eyes glistened due to the tears. “I don't care about you Alessa and I never will. I don't care that you are pregnant and I don't care if the child is mine. You mean nothing to me Alessa and you never will.” he said softly and raised his hand to her hair. Alessa couldn't believe her ears, This isn't the man she was married to. He kept a straight look as he said hurtful words to her. How did he change so fast? He slowly tucked it behind her ear as he stared at her, he trailed his hand to her wet cheeks and held it softly. Alessa exhaled heavily as she closed her eyes and leaned on his hand. She missed his touch so much. “Take the money, Alessa. Start a new life away from here, you don't have a place in mine anymore,” he said. She opened her eyes and sniffed. “Bryan, please… “ “Not another word.” he cut her off and she gulped. He pulled his hand away from her and stood up. “The guard outside will be with the cheque, in case you change your mind,” he added as he stared down at her. Alessa looked at him in tears. Taking one final look at her, Bryan walked towards the door. “Goodbye, Alessa.” Chapter 8 SIX YEARS LATER “Do you think she can hear us?” Aiden asked his sister as they both stared at their mother lying on the bed. “I don't know, this was your idea,” Aria whispered to him. “My idea? We both want this.” Aiden whispered back. “Well, she is not awake. This should be easy.” Aiden added and moved closer to the bed. He stared at his mother and smiled seeing how beautiful she looked in her sleep. He suddenly felt a presence behind him and flinched. He glared, seeing it was his sister. “Don't sneak up on me like that,” he whispered. “Sorry.” she giggled silently. Aiden raised his hand to pick up her phone next to her when she suddenly opened her eyes and held his hand. “It was Aria’s idea.” “It was Aiden’s idea.” The twins chorused at the same time. “Hey.” They chorused again and glared at each other. Alessa chuckled and slowly sat up. “What do you want with my phone when you have yours?” she asked with a smile as they both got on the bed with her. “Yours is better,” Aria replied with a smile. Alessa chuckled and ruffled their hair. It's been six years since she left New York and started a new life. It was a long sad story but she survived and became a billionaire. The best in business in most states in Australia. She is famous in the country but as famous as she was, she kept her life off the media. All she is known for is her wealth and business status. She stared at Aiden who picked up her phone, his ocean eyes lit up immediately. He is a replica of Bryan. When she gave birth to him, staring at him caused a lot of pain for her but she grew to love him as time went by. And Aria. Aria also has ocean eyes but has most of her features. They both mean a lot to her and she was grateful she changed her mind last minute about getting rid of them. “Why is she staring at us like that?” Aria asked her brother snapping Alessa out of her thoughts. She didn't realize she had been staring at them for too long. “I understand why. I look too good.” Aiden replied proudly and ran his hand through his hair with a smile. “No, you don't. I look better than you.” Aria argued, flipping her hair dramatically. Alessa shook her head as she laughed, sometimes they act older than their age. ~ Alessa sat at the table having dinner with her kids. The maids were gathered around the table watching the kids carefully. Alessa’s phone beeped and she picked it up, reading the text she received. She exhaled heavily knowing what it meant. “It's time,” she muttered. “Mummy, what did you say?” Aria asked as she licked her fingers. She dropped her phone and looked up at them with a smile. “We are going on a trip,” she announced and her kids exchanged confused looks. “What's a trip?” Aiden asked and Aria laughed. “See? This is what happens when you don't pay attention to the lessons,” she said and threw her fries at him. They have always been home schooled. “Hey,” Aiden yelled at her. “That's enough,” Alessa said and they turned to her. “We are traveling to New York City,” she said and they cheered happily. They were excited, they don't leave the house very often. Alessa has always been extra careful with them. “Tomorrow,” Alessa added. They clapped their hands happily before eating their meals. ~ “Are you comfortable?” Alessa asked as she helped her kids with their seat belts. They both nodded in response. They were flying in her private jet, and everything was new to the kids. “How rich are you, mum?” Aiden asked and she smiled. “Very,” she replied. “Why are we going to New York?” Aria suddenly asked. “To visit some old friends.” “I thought you didn't have any friends,” Aiden said. “Yes but I have old friends, I also have business to settle there,” she answered. “Will we meet these friends of yours?” Aria asked. “Of course you will,” Alessa replied with a smile. “How long will we be there?” Aiden asked further. “A few weeks or a month. At least till I am done with what I need to do.” “What?” they both chorused and Alessa smiled. “Okay, that’s enough questions for the day,” she replied and they both pouted. “Get ready, this is going to be a long ride.” Alessa stared at her kids as they slept peacefully. She thought about how the next few weeks would be. It's finally time to do what she has waited and prepared for in six years, she needs to set things right and make those who hurt her pay. It won't be as easy as it seems but she is ready. She has everything she needs already. She recalled what happened six years ago, the humiliation she went through. The pain and suffering. She was lucky to have survived, not everyone can survive in the streets while carrying twins. She had no idea she was carrying twins till she was close to giving birth to them. It really wasn't easy for her, living from hand to mouth. She glanced at her kids again and smiled. They looked so peaceful in their sleep. Alessa exhaled heavily as a smile slowly formed on her lips, time to make things right. They finally arrived in New York City. Alessa's guards helped her carry her kids and bags. They were still asleep. She walked out of the plane with her head up high, she took in a deep breath, and shut her eyes as the wind blew her hair. She waited patiently for her heart to race or to feel anxious but nothing happened. She was better than she was six years ago, she was back strong. She smirked and walked towards the cars waiting for her. It's time to make the Harts and her parents pay for what they did to her.