Chapter 33 - Chapter 33

Alex POV:

The speaker's voice came over the plane's intercom, calm and detached. "Ladies and gentlemen, we are now beginning our descent. Please fasten your seatbelts and ensure that your seatbacks and tray tables are in their upright and locked position."

I quickly complied, the click of the seatbelt buckle echoing through the silence. I stowed my laptop and phone, the screen going dark as I powered them down.

The plane touched down in Mexico with a gentle thud, and I felt a slight jolt as the engines reversed. I stood up, my bodyguard following suit, and we filed out of the plane with the other passengers.

The warm Mexican sun hit me like a slap in the face as I emerged from the airport, the sounds of the city assaulting my ears. I spotted the Lexus waiting for me, its black paint gleaming in the sunlight.

I got in, the leather seat enveloping me in comfort, and the car drove away from the airport. We glided through the streets, the scenery blurring together, until we reached La Punta Estate in Acapulco.

The gates swung open automatically, revealing a luxurious oceanfront mansion with stunning views of the Pacific. I stepped out of the car, my eyes scanning the surroundings, and spotted my parents waiting for me.

Alex POV:

"Bienvenido de regreso, hijo," (welcome back son) my parents said, their voices warm and inviting, as they enveloped me in a hug. The familiar scent of my mother's perfume and my father's cologne filled my nostrils, transporting me back to a sense of comfort and security.

"Muchas gracias," (thanks) I replied, my tone calm and detached, as I hugged them back briefly. The softness of my mother's blouse and the firmness of my father's handshake were a stark contrast to the harshness of the outside world.

We entered the mansion, the guards taking my luggage as we passed. I headed to my room, feeling a sense of familiarity wash over me.

The scent of fresh linen and polished wood filled my nostrils as I gazed around the space. "It still looks the same," I observed, my eyes scanning the room. "Mom must have kept it well." The soft hum of the air conditioning and the gentle rustle of the curtains created a soothing background noise.

I showered, feeling the warm water wash away the fatigue of my journey. As I emerged from the bathroom, I wrapped a towel around my waist and gazed at my reflection. "Muscles check, fitness check... Alex, you look flawless," I said, admiring my physique, my voice devoid of emotion. The mirror reflected a chiseled face and a body honed from years of discipline.

My phone rang, breaking the silence. I hissed, annoyed, and picked up the call. "What is it, Lyla"

"Sir, the Rugard family demands to see you now," she replied, her voice firm.

I sighed, my tone dismissive. "Tell them I'll come on Friday."

I ended the call and changed into casual clothes, heading downstairs to find food already served on the dining table. The aroma of roasted chicken and steaming vegetables filled my nostrils, but I felt no hunger. The soft clinking of silverware on plates and the muted conversation of my parents created a sense of normalcy.

Jenny POV:

I woke up early, determined to prepare a delicious meal for Annie. I headed to the market, the vibrant colors and lively atmosphere invigorating me. The scent of fresh produce and the sound of vendors calling out their daily specials filled my senses.

Since Annie was rich, I decided to prepare Lobster Thermidor, served with a side of herb-infused rice. The aroma wafting from the kitchen was heavenly, and I couldn't wait for her to taste it.

With Dad at work and Granny attending a program, I was left alone to await Annie's arrival. I heard a knock at the gate and went to open it, expecting Annie.

But to my surprise, a stranger stood before me - a face I had never seen in my life. Who was she? The bright sunlight and the sound of birds chirping created a sense of unease as I stood there, unsure of what to do next.