Ch. 171..180
After the Divorce: Crushed on My Lawyer Ex-wife Chapter 171
#171 “We Need to Find the Key.”
The warm, golden hues of the setting sun painted the sky as Sophia and Benjamin sat at the quaint little café, indulging in the simple pleasure of ice cream cones. Benjamin had insisted on this stop, eager to relive fond memories of their childhood together. As they savored the sweet treats, Sophia couldn’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia wash over her, mingled with a hint of unease.
After they had eaten their ice cream, Sophia finally spoke up, her voice tinged with a sense of urgency, “Can we go back to the house now? I really want to look at it in detail, and I haven’t called Alexander yet.”
“Of course,” Benjamin agreed readily, a smile playing at the corners of his lips.
Sophia began rummaging through her bag, her brow furrowing in concern as she failed to locate her phone amidst the jumble of items.
“Is something wrong?” Benjamin inquired, his gaze full of concern as he watched her search.
“I don’t know where my phone is,” Sophia admitted.
“You must have left it in the house. Let’s go back and find it,” Benjamin suggested, his tone gentle yet decisive.
Sophia nodded, her mind racing with possibilities. Had she dropped it somewhere? Or had it been misplaced in the rush of excitement upon their arrival?
Rising from their seats, Sophia and Benjamin made their way back to the house, the fading light casting long shadows across the path ahead.
As Sophia and Benjamin returned to the house, the anticipation of unraveling her grandfather’s secrets hung thick in the air. Yet, Benjamin’s suggestion to search for clues momentarily diverted Sophia’s attention from her missing phone.
“Let’s focus on finding any hints or clues your grandfather might have left behind,” Benjamin proposed, his eyes alight with curiosity.
Sophia nodded in agreement, her mind already racing with possibilities. However, before they could embark on their search, Sophia felt compelled to share a recent revelation with Benjamin.
“Benjamin, there’s something you should know,” Sophia began, her tone grave. “Recently, some mobsters were looking for my grandfather’s collection. It seems like there’s more to his artifacts than meets the eye.”
Benjamin’s brows furrowed in concern, his expression reflecting the gravity of the situation. “That’s troubling,” he remarked, his voice tinged with apprehension. “It suggests that there may be more at stake than we initially thought.”
With a shared sense of determination, Sophia and Benjamin set out to scour the house for any clues that could shed light on her grandfather’s enigmatic past. Room by room, they meticulously combed through every nook and cranny, their eyes trained for any sign of hidden secrets.
Hours passed in a blur as they methodically searched each room, their excitement mounting with each new discovery. Yet, despite their best efforts, they found no concrete evidence to unravel the mystery shrouding her grandfather’s collection.
Just as they were beginning to feel disheartened, their exploration led them to the study, a room that had remained largely untouched since her grandfather’s passing. As they entered, their eyes fell upon an ornate painting adorning the wall, its intricate details hinting at the possibility of hidden compartments or secret passages.
“Perhaps there’s something behind the painting,” Benjamin suggested his voice barely above a whisper.
With bated breath, Sophia approached the painting, her fingers tracing the edges in search of any hidden mechanisms. Suddenly, with a soft click, the painting swung open, revealing a hidden safe nestled within the wall.
Eyes wide with astonishment, Sophia and Benjamin exchanged a look of disbelief, their excitement palpable in the air. Yet, their elation was short- lived as they realized the safe was locked, its secrets tantalizingly out of reach.
“We need to find the key,” Sophia declared, her determination unwavering.
For hours, they scoured the study, searching every drawer and cabinet in hopes of finding the elusive key. Yet, their efforts proved fruitless, and frustration threatened to cloud their resolve.
“It’s as if the key has vanished into thin air,” Benjamin remarked, his voice tinged with frustration.
Sophia nodded in agreement, her mind racing with possibilities. Suddenly, a thought occurred to her, a glimmer of hope amidst the uncertainty.
“What if the key was meant for me all along?” Sophia mused, her eyes alight with newfound determination. ”
Perhaps my grandfather entrusted it to me, knowing that one day, I would uncover the truth hidden within these walls.”
“And what could that mean?” Benjamin asked. “Do you have any idea what he might have left for you to unlock the safe?'”
Sophia pondered Benjamin’s question for a moment, her gaze fixed on the enigmatic safe that loomed before them.
“I’m not sure,” she admitted, her voice tinged with uncertainty. “But given my grandfather’s penchant for secrecy and his deep connection to his artifacts, I can’t help but feel that there’s something of great importance hidden within that safe.”
Benjamin nodded in understanding. It’s possible that he left behind something that he believed only you could decipher,” he suggested. ” Perhaps a clue to the true nature of his collection, or even a message meant specifically for you.”
Sophia’s heart skipped a beat at the thought, her resolve strengthening with each passing moment. “Whatever it is, I need to find a way to unlock that safe,” she declared, her voice resolute. ” If my grandfather entrusted me with this task, then I owe it to him-and to myself to uncover the truth.”
After the Divorce: Crushed on My Lawyer Ex-wife Chapter 172
#172 “I could have Sworn I had it Earlier…”
It was growing late, the soft glow of evening casting long shadows throughout Sophia’s grandfather’s house. Sophia and Benjamin, tired from their exhaustive search for the elusive key, stood in the dimly lit hallway, their fatigue palpable in the air.
“I think it’s time for bed,” Sophia announced with a weary smile, her voice tinged with exhaustion. “It’s been a long day, and I definitely need some sleep.”
Benjamin nodded in agreement, although there was a hint of reluctance in his expression. “Of course. Do you want me to stay?”
Sophia furrowed her brow in surprise at his offer. “Stay?” she echoed, her confusion evident. “Like back in the day when we used to have slumber parties?”
A nostalgic smile tugged at Benjamin’s lips as he nodded. “Exactly like that.”
Sophia chuckled softly, the tension of the day momentarily forgotten. ”
Benjamin, back then I was afraid of the monster under the bed,” she teased. ” You don’t need to stay.”
“I’m just worried,” Benjamin began, his tone earnest. “It’s a big house, and…
“I’m a big girl, I’ll handle it,” Sophia reassured him, her voice gentle but firm. “You live next door, if something happens, you’ll be the first to know.”
Reluctantly, Benjamin conceded, although his mood seemed to darken slightly. “That’s right,” he conceded, his words tinged with disappointment.
“Okay, Sophia, then I wish you a good evening.”
Sophia offered him a grateful smile as she escorted him to the door, the weight of exhaustion heavy on her shoulders.
As Sophia watched Benjamin disappear into the night, a sudden realization struck her like a bolt of lightning. Her phone! She still hadn’t called Alexander. He might worry, she thought. She frantically searched the nearby surfaces.
“Where is it?” she muttered to herself. ” I could have sworn I had it earlier…”
As Sophia scoured every nook and cranny of the house, her growing sense of unease intensified with each passing moment. Despite her thorough efforts, her phone remained elusive, nowhere to be found.
“I had to ask Benjamin for his phone. Alexander must be worried now,” she muttered, feeling a pang of guilt for not having contacted him yet.
Glancing at her watch, she realized it was getting late in the evening. She hesitated, not wanting to disturb Benjamin, who must surely be asleep by now.
At that moment, a thought dawned on her. This was her grandfather’s watch, a precious gift he had bestowed upon her. What if the watch held a clue to the safe?
Sophia scolded herself once again for losing her phone. Now she would have to wait until morning to do something about it.
Remembering that she had left the watch case in her apartment, Sophia couldn’t shake the feeling of a missed opportunity. Perhaps there was a clue hidden within the case that could lead her to the elusive key.
Nervous and tired, she made her way up to her old bedroom. As she settled into bed, she couldn’t help but imagine returning with Alexander one day, sharing stories of her childhood and the secrets hidden within the walls of her grandfather’s house.
As the night wore on, Alexander’s anxiety only intensified. He had been trying to reach Sophia for hours, his calls going unanswered and his messages left unread. Each unanswered call only served to fuel his growing sense of unease, a gnawing fear that something was terribly wrong.
Already in bed, Alexander decided to try to call her one last time.
Benjamin’s smirk widened as he watched Alexander’s name flash on Sophia’s phone screen. With a mischievous gleam in his eyes, he answered the call, relishing the opportunity to play with Alexander’s emotions.
“Hello?” Benjamin’s voice was smooth, laced with a hint of amusement as he spoke into the phone.
“Benjamin, is that you?” Alexander’s voice was filled with anger. “Benjamin, where the hell is Sophia? Why isn’t she answering her phone?”
Benjamin’s response was casual, almost mocking. “Oh, Alex, she’s busy right now. Can’t talk. Maybe later.”
Alexander’s temper flared at the dismissive tone. “Listen to me, Benjamin. This is serious. Sophia hasn’t contacted me all day, and now her phone goes straight to voicemail. Where is she?”
Benjamin’s voice took on a smug edge.
“Relax, Alex. Sophia’s fine. She’s just spending some quality time with me, that’s all.”
Alexander’s grip tightened on the phone, his frustration reaching a boiling point. “Quality time? What the hell are you talking about, Benjamin? Where is she?”
But Benjamin’s response was infuriatingly vague. “Sorry, Alex, can’t talk now. Gotta run.”
Before Alexander could respond, Benjamin ended the call, leaving him seething with rage and frustration. How dare Benjamin brush him off like that? How dare he insinuate that he had some kind of special relationship with Sophia?
As Alexander slammed his phone down on the nightstand, his mind raced with a thousand different scenarios. What were they doing? Why did Sophia refuse to talk to him and give her phone to Benjamin? Was Benjamin more charming than him? More attentive? Did he have something to offer Sophia that Alexander didn’t?
With each passing moment, Alexander’s jealousy festered and grew, consuming him from the inside out. He couldn’t bear the thought of Sophia finding happiness in someone else’s arms, of being replaced by Benjamin in her affections.
As he stewed in his jealousy, Alexander’s thoughts spiraled into a vortex of doubt and self-loathing. He couldn’t shake the feeling that he wasn’t good enough for Sophia, that he would never be able to compete with the bond she shared with Benjamin.
But deep down, beneath the layers of jealousy and insecurity, Alexander knew that his feelings for Sophia ran deeper than mere jealousy. He loved her with every fiber of his being, and the thought of losing her to someone else was more than he could bear.
With a heavy sigh, Alexander forced himself to push aside his irrational jealousy and focus on finding a way to reach Sophia. He may not understand why she was spending time with Benjamin, but he was determined to fight for her, to prove that his love for her was stronger than any fleeting attraction she might feel for someone else.
After the Divorce: Crushed on My Lawyer Ex-wife Chapter 173
#173 “Evelyn? Where’s Sophia?”
The morning sun streamed through the curtains, casting a warm glow across the room as Sophia stirred from her slumber. Stretching luxuriously, she felt remarkably rested despite the events of the previous day. With a contented sigh, she rose from the bed and began to ready herself for the day ahead.
After a quick shower and a change of clothes, Sophia made her way downstairs to the kitchen, where Benjamin was already preparing breakfast. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air, mingling with the scent of sizzling bacon and eggs.
“Morning, Sophia,” Benjamin greeted her with a smile as she entered the room. “I hope you slept well.”
“Like a baby,” Sophia replied, returning his smile as she took a seat at the table. “And breakfast smells amazing.”
As they enjoyed their meal together, Sophia couldn’t shake the excitement bubbling within her. She was eager to share her theory about the watch with Benjamin, knowing that he would appreciate her detective work.
“Benjamin, I’ve been thinking,” she began, her voice tinged with excitement. “What if the key to the safe is somehow connected to my grandfather’s watch?”
Benjamin’s eyes lit up with interest as Sophia explained her theory, nodding along as she spoke. “That’s a brilliant idea, Sophia. Your grandfather was a clever man, and it wouldn’t surprise me if he left a clue like that behind.”
Encouraged by Benjamin’s enthusiasm, Sophia decided to take action. “I need to call Alexander and ask him to check the watch box in my apartment. Do you mind?”
But before she could reach for his phone, Benjamin intervened. “Actually, Sophia, I think we should call Evelyn instead.”
Sophia frowned, puzzled by Benjamin’s suggestion. “Evelyn? Why?”
“I just think she might be able to help us more effectively,” Benjamin explained, though his tone was evasive.
Before Sophia could protest, Benjamin had already taken his phone from Sophia’s hands and dialed Evelyn’s number. As the phone rang, Sophia watched with a sense of unease, unsure of what to expect.
“Evelyn, it’s Benjamin,” Benjamin said when Evelyn picked up. “We need your help with something.”
Sophia listened intently as Benjamin explained the situation to Evelyn. When it was her turn to speak, Sophia took the phone from Benjamin and addressed Evelyn directly.
“Evelyn, I need you to go to my apartment and check the watch box my grandfather gave me,” Sophia said. “I think there might be a clue inside that could help us unlock the safe.”
Evelyn promised to do as Sophia asked, assuring her that she would keep her updated on any developments. With a sense of relief, Sophia thanked Evelyn and ended the call, feeling hopeful that they were one step closer to unraveling the mystery of her grandfather’s secrets.
*
The morning sun struggled to penetrate the heavy curtains of Alexander’s apartment, casting a somber pallor over the room as he sat at his desk, hunched over his laptop. His usually tidy workspace was cluttered with scattered papers and half -empty coffee mugs, a reflection of his restless state of mind.
He hadn’t slept a wink all night, his thoughts consumed by the unresolved tension between him and Sophia. Despite their argument, he had hoped that they had made amends, but her continued silence only served to deepen his frustration and confusion.
Refusing to face the outside world today, Alexander had resolved to work from home, hoping to bury himself in his tasks and distract himself from the gnawing ache in his heart. But try as he might, he couldn’t shake the feeling of unease that lingered like a shadow over him.
His eyes constantly wandered to the window, where he could see the building next door, Sophia’s apartment. It had become a habit for him to steal glances in that direction, a silent longing stirring within him whenever he caught sight of her window.
But today was different. Today, he noticed that the lights were on in Sophia’s apartment, a stark contrast to the darkened windows he had grown accustomed to. His heart skipped a beat as a surge of hope coursed through him. Had Sophia returned from her journey?
Without a second thought, Alexander closed his laptop with a resounding thud and rose from his seat, a sense of urgency propelling him forward. He didn’t bother to grab his jacket or keys, his only focus on reaching Sophia’s apartment as quickly as possible.
The distance between their apartments seemed to shrink as Alexander broke into a run, his heart pounding in his chest with each step.
Breathless and heart-pounding, Alexander reached Sophia’s door and knocked urgently, his mind racing with a thousand questions and fears. But when the door swung open, it wasn’t Sophia who greeted him, but Evelyn.
Surprised and confused, Alexander’s initial rush of adrenaline gave way to a sinking feeling of disappointment. ” Evelyn? Where’s Sophia?” he asked.
After the Divorce: Crushed on My Lawyer Ex-wife Chapter 174
#174 “Surprised to See Me, Son?”
Evelyn looked at Alexander in confusion. She had just arrived at Sophia’s apartment to check the watch box, as she had been asked, and encountering Alexander there was unexpected.
“Sophia is in her grandfather’s old house,” Evelyn informed him. “Didn’t you know?”
“Of course I know,” Alexander replied cheekily. “What are you doing here?”
“Sophia contacted me to check on something in her apartment,” Evelyn explained.
“So she’s answering your calls,” Alexander retorted sharply.
“I don’t understand what’s going on,” Evelyn admitted, her brow furrowing with concern.
“Since she left, Sophia hasn’t called me once,” Alexander remarked, frustration evident in his voice.
“She must be busy, Alexander,” Evelyn countered gently. “Trust her a little.”
“I trust her, but I don’t trust Benjamin.
As their conversation lingered in the air, Alexander’s agitation seemed to grow, fueled by his lingering suspicions and the frustration of not being able to reach Sophia.
“I just have a bad feeling about this whole situation,” Alexander muttered, his tone tinged with concern.
Evelyn regarded him with a sympathetic expression, understanding the turmoil he must be experiencing. “I know you care about Sophia deeply, Alexander. But sometimes, we have to trust that the people we love know what’s best for them.”
“I know, but…” Alexander trailed off, unable to articulate the swirl of emotions churning within him.
Evelyn placed a comforting hand on his shoulder. “Sophia will come around, Alexander. Give her time.”
Despite her reassurances, Alexander couldn’t shake the sense of unease that gnawed at him. He felt powerless, trapped in a web of uncertainty and doubt.
“Thank you, Evelyn,” Alexander said quietly. “I appreciate your support.”
Evelyn offered him a reassuring smile. As Alexander turned to leave, Evelyn continued her search for the watch box, determined to fulfill Sophia’s request. After a thorough examination of the apartment, she finally spotted the box tucked away in a corner.
With a sense of accomplishment, Evelyn carefully retrieved the box and began to examine its contents. As she sifted through the items inside, her eyes widened in surprise when she discovered a small key nestled among the trinkets.
Excited by her discovery, Evelyn reached for her phone to call Sophia and share the news. However, to her dismay, Sophia didn’t pick up despite several attempts.
Perplexed by Sophia’s lack of response, Evelyn decided to contact Benjamin, hoping he might have better luck reaching her. As Evelyn’s call connected, Benjamin’s voice greeted her almost instantly, his eagerness evident in his tone.
“I found a key in the watch case,” Evelyn exclaimed, her excitement palpable through the phone.
“That’s fantastic news!” Benjamin exclaimed, a smile evident in his voice. “I’m putting you on speaker so Sophia can hear you.”
Sophia’s voice chimed in, her tone warm and relieved. “Hello, Evelyn,” she greeted her friend.
Evelyn wasted no time in relaying her discovery. “I found the key. Now what do I do?” she asked, her voice filled with anticipation.
“Please send it to me by express mail,” Sophia instructed, her tone decisive.
“Of course,” Evelyn agreed readily. Sophia, why don’t you answer your phone, I called you several times,” she added, curiosity laced in her voice.
Sophia hesitated for a moment before admitting, “I lost my phone.”
Evelyn couldn’t help but laugh at Sophia’s admission, a hint of amusement coloring her voice. “You never lose a case, but when it comes to the phone,” she teased gently.
The playful banter elicited laughter from everyone on the call, a moment of levity amidst the excitement of their discovery.
“Okay, Sophia, I’m sending you the key right now,” Evelyn promised.
With a sense of relief and anticipation, Sophia and Benjamin awaited the arrival of the key, hopeful that it would unlock the secrets hidden within the safe.
*
As Alexander stormed out of Sophia’s apartment building, his mind seethed with frustration and hurt. Why was Sophia avoiding him? Why was she talking to everyone except him? The questions gnawed at him, fueling the fire of his anger as he made his way back to his own apartment.
Lost in his turbulent thoughts, Alexander barely noticed the figure that approached him on the sidewalk. It was a man who exuded an aura of malevolence, his features twisted into a sinister smirk. There was something unnerving about the way the man moved, a predatory grace that set off alarm bells in Alexander’s mind.
“Alexander?” the man’s voice was smooth, but there was a chilling edge to it that made Alexander’s blood run cold.
Alexander’s gaze snapped up, his eyes narrowing as he studied the man before him. It took a moment for recognition to dawn, and when it did, Alexander felt a surge of anger flood over him.
“Father,” he said, feeling his anger grow more and more.
The man’s smirk widened. “Surprised to see me, son?” he purred, his voice dripping with malice.
After the Divorce: Crushed on My Lawyer Ex-wife Chapter 175
#175 “After Abandoning Us?”
Alexander’s fists clenched at his sides, his jaw set in a steely line as he glared at the man who had once been his father. He had not seen or heard from the man in years, and the sight of him now only served to reignite the smoldering embers of resentment that had long simmered within Alexander’s heart.
“What do you want?” Alexander demanded, his voice tinged with a simmering fury.
His father’s grin widened further, a wicked gleam flickering in his eyes. I’ve come to collect what’s rightfully mine,” he declared, his tone laced with arrogance.
Alexander’s brow furrowed in confusion. “What are you talking about?
His father’s expression hardened, his gaze boring into Alexander with a chilling intensity. “You know exactly what I’m talking about, son. It’s time you gave me my share of Stone Enterprise.”
Alexander’s eyes blazed with indignation. “You think you’re entitled to something after all these years? After abandoning us?”
His father’s lips curled into a scornful sneer. “I didn’t abandon anyone, Alexander. It was your grandfather who drove me away, who destroyed my life.”
Alexander’s blood ran cold at his father’s words. “You blame Grandfather for your own mistakes? That’s absurd. You’ve always been quick to shift the blame onto others instead of owning up to your own failures.”
His father’s smirk twisted into a snarl of contempt. “You may think you know everything, Alexander, but you have no idea what I’ve been through. And now it’s time for the Stone family to pay for what they’ve done to me.”
As Alexander stood in his doorway, facing his estranged father, a myriad of emotions swirled within him. Anger, suspicion, and a lingering sense of betrayal warred for dominance as he met his father’s calculating gaze.
“And how do you expect that to happen?” Alexander’s voice was terse, his tone laced with skepticism.
“Invite me to your apartment and we’ll talk,” his father replied smoothly, a hint of smugness tainting his words.
Reluctance gnawed at Alexander’s insides, but begrudgingly, he acquiesced. With a heavy sigh, he unlocked the door and gestured for his father to enter. As they stepped inside, the air seemed to thicken with tension, the weight of unresolved issues hanging heavy between them.
Seated at the table, the two men faced each other across its polished surface, their silence a palpable barrier that stretched between them.
“Speak,” Alexander commanded his voice a low rumble of authority.
*
As Sophia and Benjamin carefully inserted the key into the lock of the old safe, a sense of anticipation hung thick in the air. With a soft click, the heavy door swung open, revealing a trove of secrets hidden within its depths.
Inside, nestled amongst stacks of documents and folders, lay a treasure trove of information waiting to be unearthed. Sophia’s heart quickened with excitement as she reached for the nearest folder, her fingers trembling with anticipation.
The first folder she opened was labeled “Venillia Family,” and as she leafed through its contents, her eyes widened in astonishment. The documents detailed a complex web of connections, linking Sandro’s father and Kyle’s father to the same Mafia family. It seemed that Sandro’s father had once been deeply entrenched in the criminal underworld, but had since left the Mafia to pursue legitimate business ventures in the United States.
Sophia’s grandfather, she discovered, had played a pivotal role in Sandro’s father’s transition from crime to commerce. As a formidable business consultant in his youth, he had lent his expertise to help establish Sandro’s father’s legitimate business empire. However, in doing so, he had unwittingly stumbled upon some of the Mafia’s most closely guarded secrets.
Sophia’s father, Judge Johnson, had also come into contact with the dark underbelly of organized crime during his tenure on the bench. In a landmark case, he had personally sentenced a high-ranking member of the Mafia, earning himself a place on their list of enemies.
The truth behind her father’s tragic car accident was finally laid bare as well. It had been a retaliation by the Mafia, a ruthless act of vengeance designed to silence him once and for all.
Sophia’s blood ran cold as she absorbed the gravity of the revelations before her. The pieces of the puzzle were finally falling into place, connecting her family’s past to the present dangers that loomed over her.
“What did you find?” Benjamin asked, seeing the shocked face of Sophia.
Sophia’s hands trembled as she clutched the documents, her mind reeling from the shocking revelations they contained. With a heavy heart, she turned to Benjamin, her eyes reflecting the turmoil within her.
“I… I don’t even know where to begin,” she whispered, her voice barely audible above the tumultuous thoughts racing through her mind.
As Benjamin leaned in closer, concern etched on his features, Sophia took a deep breath, steeling herself to share the truth she had uncovered.
“My grandfather… he was more deeply involved with the Mafia than I ever could have imagined,” she began, her words tinged with disbelief. “He helped Sandro’s father transition from a life of crime to one of legitimate business, but in doing so, he stumbled upon some of the Mafia’s most closely guarded secrets.”
Benjamin’s eyes widened in shock, his brow furrowing as he processed the implications of Sophia’s words.
“And my father,” Sophia continued, her voice trembling with emotion, ” he… he crossed paths with the Mafia during his time as a judge. He sentenced a high-ranking member of the organization, and… and they retaliated by causing the car accident that took his life.”
A heavy silence descended upon the room as Benjamin absorbed the gravity of Sophia’s revelations. The weight of the truth hung heavily between them, casting a shadow over their newfound understanding of the dangers they faced.
“What do we do now?” Benjamin asked his voice barely a whisper in the stillness of the room.
Sophia’s mind raced with possibilities, but one thing was clear: they couldn’t afford to ignore the threat that loomed over them any longer.
“We have to find out what else they’re hiding,” she said, her tone resolute.” We need to uncover the truth behind these secrets before it’s too late.”
And with that, she reached for the next folder labeled: Stone Enterprise.
After the Divorce: Crushed on My Lawyer Ex-wife Chapter 176
#176 “Get Out!”
Alexander sat across from his father at the dining table, the air thick with tension as they exchanged wary glances. His father slid a stack of documents across the table towards Alexander, his expression unreadable.
“What’s this?” Alexander asked, eyeing the papers warily.
“Take a look,” his father replied, his voice cold and calculating.
As Alexander flipped through the documents, his eyes widened in shock and disbelief. The papers revealed a web of deals and agreements between his own grandfather and Sophia’s, detailing the exchange of secrets and favors that had led to the engagement between Alexander and Sophia.
“So, this is why…” Alexander’s voice trailed off, his mind reeling with the implications of what he was reading.
His father leaned in close, a sinister
smile playing at the corners of his lips. ” You see, son, there are certain… arrangements that need to be honored. And if you’re not willing to cooperate, well, let’s just say I have other plans for these secrets.”
Alexander’s blood boiled with fury as he realized the extent of his father’s manipulation. “You’re blackmailing me,” he spat, his voice laced with anger.
His father’s smile widened. “Call it what you will. But rest assured, if you don’t hand over what I want willingly, I’ll have no qualms about exposing everything and destroying your precious business. I am now close enough to uncovering the deals your grandfather made with your dear Sophia’s grandfather. There is nothing you can do to stop what has already started.”
Enraged, Alexander rose from his seat, his fists clenched in fury. “Get out,” he growled, his voice low and dangerous.
His father chuckled darkly as he stood, collecting the documents and tucking them into his briefcase. “Remember, son, you have until I return to make your decision. Choose wisely.”
With that ominous warning, Alexander’s father turned and left the apartment, leaving Alexander seething with anger and frustration.
As the reality of his father’s threat sank in, Alexander’s thoughts turned to Sophia. She was directly connected to the secrets his father was so eager to exploit, and he couldn’t bear the thought of her getting caught in the crossfire.
Determined to protect her at all costs, Alexander knew he had to act fast. Without hesitation, he reached for his phone and dialed his mother’s number, his mind racing with the urgency of the situation. He needed answers, and he needed them now.
*
Sophia’s heart raced with anticipation as she carefully removed the folder labeled “Stone Enterprise” from the safe. With trembling hands, she opened it, revealing a trove of documents that promised to unravel the mysteries surrounding her family’s past.
As she pored over the papers, her eyes widened in shock and disbelief. The documents detailed secret transactions and agreements dating back to the establishment of Stone Enterprise, implicating her own grandfather, Christopher, in dealings that went far beyond the realm of legitimate business.
Sophia’s hands trembled as she sifted through the documents, her eyes scanning each page for clues. Among the papers, she found evidence that sent a chill down her spine.
There were records of secret transactions and agreements, meticulously documented and hidden away for decades. But what shocked Sophia the most was the revelation of her grandfather’s connection to Alexander’s own lineage.
Buried within the documents were references to clandestine dealings between Christopher and Alexander’s grandfather, implicating them both in a web of intrigue that reached deep into the underworld. It was clear that Christopher had been aiding Alexander’s grandfather with his ties to the mafia, using his influence and connections to protect their interests.
As Sophia pieced together the puzzle, she realized the extent of the secrets her family had been keeping. Her grandfather’s involvement in these shadowy dealings had put not only their own lives at risk but also those of future generations, including hers and Alexander’s.
The weight of the revelation hung heavy in the air as Sophia grappled with the implications. What had driven her grandfather to make such dangerous alliances? And what consequences would they face now that the truth was coming to light?
With each passing moment, the urgency of the situation grew clearer. Sophia knew that they couldn’t afford to ignore the dangers lurking in their midst. But as she looked at the photo of her grandfather and Alexander’s, she couldn’t help but wonder: were they destined to repeat the mistakes of the past, or could they find a way to break free from the shadows that threatened to consume them?
Sophia, a lawyer like her father, couldn’t fathom the idea that her grandfather, whom she had always regarded as the epitome of integrity and ambition, would stoop to breaking the law. There had to be a good reason behind his actions, she reasoned, refusing to believe otherwise.
Determined not to let the matter rest until she had unearthed the final piece of the puzzle, Sophia watched as Benjamin bent over the documents, his brow furrowed in concentration. But as he began to read, an overwhelming desire washed over Sophia to pry the papers from his hands and decipher their secrets herself.
“Sophia, I don’t like this at all…” he said, his voice tinged with urgency as he met her gaze. “Do you realize the danger we’re in by knowing this?”
After the Divorce: Crushed on My Lawyer Ex-wife Chapter 177
#177 “I can’t Bear to Lose You.”
Sophia’s brow furrowed as she listened to Benjamin’s concerns, but her determination remained unwavering. ” Ben, I understand your worries, but we can’t just ignore this. There’s something here, something important that we need to uncover.”
Benjamin’s frustration boiled over, his voice rising in agitation. “But Sophia, you’re putting yourself in harm’s way! We don’t know what kind of people we’re dealing with here. It’s not worth risking your safety over.”
Sophia shook her head, her eyes flashing with resolve. “I can’t just turn a blind eye to this, Ben. My grandfather was a good man, and there must be a reason behind his actions. I need to know the truth, no matter the cost.”
Benjamin clenched his fists in frustration, his anger bubbling to the surface. “You’re being reckless, Sophia! You’re putting yourself in danger, and for what? To satisfy your curiosity?”
Sophia’s voice softened, but her resolve remained unyielding. “I need to do this, Ben. Please try to understand.”
But Benjamin was beyond reasoning, his fear and frustration clouding his judgment. “I can’t watch you throw your life away like this, Sophia.”
Tension hung heavy in the air as the two stared at each other, the weight of their conflicting emotions threatening to tear them apart. But Sophia knew that she couldn’t back down, not when the truth was within her grasp.
Benjamin sat down next to Sophia, his heart heavy with concern, and reached out to grab her hand for reassurance. However, Sophia immediately pulled away, her actions stinging him with hurt.
“Sophia, drop that,” Benjamin urged, his tone filled with worry. “How many dangers has he been getting into recently because of these secrets? Look what happened to your father.”
“Don’t talk about my father,” Sophia snapped, her voice rising with indignation.
“Don’t do that, Sophie,” Benjamin pleaded, hurt evident in his eyes. Come with me to Europe.”
“In Europe?” Sophia scoffed, her disbelief evident in her tone.
“Yes, leave all the fuss and run away with me to Europe. You’ll be safe there. You can open a new law firm and…”
“I’m not going to Europe, have you lost your mind?”
“Please listen to me,” Benjamin begged, his voice tinged with desperation. “You don’t have to play detective. Leave all this and come with me to live peacefully. We’ve known each other for years, Sophia, and I can’t bear it if something happens to you.”
“I’m perfectly capable of managing on my own. Besides, Evelyn and Alexander are here,” Sophia countered firmly.
“Don’t start with Alexander. He’s been neglecting you for years. How can you be with a man like that?” Benjamin’s frustration spilled over, his words laced with bitterness.
“And what kind of man is he, Benjamin?
“He’s a dishonest businessman who only tricks you. I can’t believe you’re buying into his hypocrisy. I’m sure he’s aware of these deals and he’s just blindfolding you.”
“That’s not true at all.”
“Can’t you see how much trouble you’ve gotten yourself into since he is in your life?” Benjamin implored, his concern evident in every word.
“He’s not to blame for any of this. He’s always been there to help me when things got tough.”
“Things wouldn’t be so hard if it wasn’t for him. How are you so blind to see that?”
Sophia shook her head, frustration etched into her features. “You’re wrong, Benjamin. Alexander isn’t responsible for the troubles in my life. He’s been my rock, my support through it all.”
Benjamin’s brows furrowed, his frustration mounting. “But can’t you see, Sophia? He’s a part of this mess, whether you want to admit it or not.
And now you’re putting yourself in danger by digging into these secrets.”
“I can’t just turn a blind eye, Benjamin, “Sophia insisted, her voice firm with determination. “There’s something bigger at play here, something my grandfather was involved in, and I need to know the truth.”
“But at what cost?” Benjamin pressed, his tone pleading. “You could be risking your life, Sophia. Is it worth it?”
Sophia hesitated, her gaze dropping to the documents spread out on the table before her. The weight of Benjamin’s words bore down on her, but so too did her unwavering resolve to uncover the truth.
“I have to do this, Benjamin,” she said finally, her voice resolute. “For my father, for my grandfather, and for myself. I can’t run away from the truth, no matter how dangerous it may be.”
Benjamin’s pacing grew more frantic, his steps echoing loudly in the tense silence of the room. His hands clenched and unclenched at his sides, his expression wrought with a mixture of anxiety and determination.
“Sophia,” he began, his voice strained, “I can’t just walk away from this. I’ll sit here until you decide to come with me to Europe.”
Sophia watched him with a mixture of shock and concern, her brow furrowed in confusion. “Benjamin, what are you saying?” she asked, her voice tinged with apprehension. “Why are you behaving like this?”
“Because I love you, Sophia,” Benjamin blurted out, his words tumbling forth in a rush. “I can’t stand the thought of something happening to you. I can’t bear to lose you.”
After the Divorce: Crushed on My Lawyer Ex-wife Chapter 178
#178 “Benjamin is Sophia’s Half- brother.”
Alexander paced anxiously in front of his mother’s villa, his mind a whirlwind of worry and frustration. His private jet sat waiting nearby, but he couldn’t bring himself to leave without speaking to his mother first. If his father’s threats were true, Sophia could be in grave danger, and he couldn’t bear the thought of leaving her unprotected.
Despite the lingering anger he felt towards Sophia, his love for her burned fiercely in his heart, driving him to ensure her safety at any cost. As he approached the villa, his footsteps echoed loudly against the pavement, his urgency palpable in the air.
“Mom!” Alexander called out as he burst through the door, his voice ringing with urgency. “I need to talk to you, it’s important!”
Caroline appeared at the top of the stairs, her expression full of confusion and concern. “My God, Alexander, what’s going on?” she exclaimed, her voice rising with alarm. “Why are you shouting?”
“My father. He appeared,” Alexander said breathlessly, his voice tinged with urgency.
Caroline’s eyes widened in surprise as she motioned for Alexander to sit down, her concern growing with each passing moment. “Sit down, dear. Take a deep breath. What did he tell you?” she asked, her voice calm and reassuring despite the turmoil brewing within her.
“He’s threatening to expose some secrets about our family,” Alexander replied, his words tumbling out in a rush. “He claims he has evidence that could ruin everything. I need to warn Sophia before it’s too late.”
Caroline’s expression darkened with concern as she listened to her son’s words. “What kind of secrets?” she inquired, her mind racing with the implications of his revelation.
Alexander shook his head, frustration evident in his voice. “I don’t know all the details yet, but it involves deals made by our grandfathers. Secrets about the origins of Stone Enterprise, and… and Sophia’s family too.”
Caroline’s eyes widened in alarm at the mention of Sophia. “Sophia? Is she in danger?” she asked, her voice trembling with worry.
“I don’t know, but I have to find out,” Alexander said determinedly, rising from his seat. “I need to talk to her. I need to make sure she’s safe. But before that, you have to tell me writhing you know.”
Caroline hesitated for a moment, grappling with the weight of the information she held. She knew she had to trust her son, but revealing the truth would expose the darker aspects of their family’s history.
“Alexander, there are things you need to understand,” she began, her voice tinged with apprehension. “The secrets your father is referring to… they involve deals that were made decades ago. Deals that shaped the foundation of our family’s fortune.”
Alexander’s eyes narrowed as he listened intently, his mind racing with questions. “What kind of deals?” he pressed.
Caroline took a deep breath, steeling herself to reveal the truth. “They were deals made with the Venillia family, a powerful Mafia organization. Your grandfather and Sophia’s grandfather were both involved, trading favors and information in exchange for protection and influence.”
“I don’t understand why it had to go there?” Alexander asked, his voice heavy with frustration and confusion.
Caroline sighed, her gaze distant as she struggled to piece together the fragmented memories of the past. “The details are not clear to me. Your grandfather was a secretive man,” she explains. “I know that apart from business, Sophia’s grandfather and your grandfather were very good friends.”
The revelation left Alexander reeling, his mind racing with unanswered questions. He got up to leave, realizing that he wouldn’t find the clarity he seeks here.
“Where are you going?” Caroline asked concern etched into her features.
“To Sophia’s,” Alexander replied tersely.
“Why don’t you call her?”
“Because she is not answering her phone. I don’t understand what’s going on and my nerves are on edge and I have to go,” he explained, his frustration evident.
“Wait, why isn’t she picking up?”
“I do not know. I thought everything was fine, but she left with Benjamin and hasn’t spoken to me since. He just sends me pictures of the two of them with messages about how happy they are.”
“This is bad. That’s very bad,” said Caroline.
Caroline’s pacing quickened nervously, and Alexander reached out to stop her.
“I’ll be fine. I will talk with her,” he reassured her, though his own doubts linger.
“You don’t understand, Alexander. Sophia and Benjamin cannot be together,” Caroline interjected, her voice tinged with urgency.
“Do tell. I am furious,” Alexander retorted, his anger bubbling to the surface.
“No, not about that,” she said, her lips pursed nervously.
“What are you not telling me, mother? “Alexander pressed, his voice tight with apprehension.
Caroline took a deep breath, steeling
herself before dropping the bombshell. “Benjamin is Sophia’s half-brother,” she confessed, her words hanging heavy in the air.
“WHAT?” Alexander screamed, his voice echoing with disbelief. “How is it possible?”
Caroline’s expression remained somber as she explained, “Sophia’s father and Benjamin’s father are the same person. They hid this truth to protect Sophia’s family from scandal. Sophia’s parents paid a substantial sum to the other woman to raise Benjamin quietly, without revealing his true parentage. Despite the secrecy, Sophia’s father wanted to take responsibility, allowing the two children to grow up as friends, unaware of their shared lineage. This is one of the secrets your grandfather had to protect, and Sophia’s grandfather
assisted him in return for his silence.”
Alexander’s mind raced as he struggled to process the shocking revelation. The implications of Sophia and Benjamin being half-siblings shook him to his core.
“I have to find Sophia,” Alexander declared, his resolve firm as he rose from his seat. “I need to tell her the truth.
After the Divorce: Crushed on My Lawyer Ex-wife Chapter 179
#179 “Alexander is the Love of My Life.”
Sophia stood up from her seat, her body recoiling as if scalded by Benjamin’s confession.
“What does that mean?” she asked, her voice barely above a whisper, her eyes wide with disbelief.
“I’ve loved you for years, Sophia. I can’t hide it anymore,” Benjamin admitted, his tone earnest, his eyes pleading for understanding.
Benjamin took a step towards Sophia, his movements tentative, as if afraid she might vanish before his eyes. But instead of closing the distance between them, Sophia stepped back, her expression one of shock and confusion.
“I’ve loved you for years, Sophia. I can’t hide it anymore,” Benjamin declared, his tone earnest but tinged with desperation as he took a step closer to her.
Sophia’s breath caught in her throat, her inind racing as she grappled with the weight of Benjamin’s words. She shook her head slowly, her voice trembling as she tried to find the right words to respond.
“Ben, we’ve been friends since we were kids,” she said. “I… I don’t know what to say.”
Benjamin’s expression hardened, his eyes narrowing as he took another step towards her. “Say you felt the same way, Sophia. Say you’ve been hiding your feelings for me too,” he pleaded, his voice tinged with desperation.
Sophia’s heart clenched at the desperation in Benjamin’s voice, but she knew deep down that she couldn’t give him the answer he wanted. She shook her head again, her voice firm but gentle as she tried to let him down gently.
“I’m sorry, Ben. I don’t feel that way about you,” she said softly, her voice filled with genuine remorse. “I value our friendship, but… but I don’t see you that way.”
Benjamin’s face fell, his disappointment evident in the slump of his shoulders and the crestfallen look in his eyes. “But… but what about Alexander?” he asked, his voice tinged with bitterness as he gestured towards the door. “He never was there for you like I was. He doesn’t love you the way I do.”
Sophia’s heart clenched at the mention of Alexander, her mind flooded with memories of their tumultuous relationship. She squared her shoulders, her voice firm as she defended her love for Alexander.
“Alexander and I have been through a lot together,” she said, her voice tinged with determination. “He might not have been perfect, but he loves me in his way. And I love him.”
Benjamin’s eyes flashed with anger, his fists clenched at his sides as he struggled to contain his emotions. ” You are making a mistake, Sophia,” he said, his voice tinged with desperation. “Don’t let him ruin what we have.”
But Sophia shook her head, her resolve unwavering as she met Benjamin’s gaze with steely determination. “I’m sorry, Ben,” she said softly. “But my heart belongs to Alexander.”
Benjamin showed no signs of backing down, his desperation fueling his determination to win Sophia’s affection. “I don’t care about any of that. I can make you happy, Sophia. I can give you everything you ever wanted,” he pleaded, his voice laced with a hint of desperation.
Sophia’s patience wore thin, her anger bubbling to the surface as she realized the depth of Benjamin’s selfishness. ” Stop it, Ben,” she snapped, her tone sharp with irritation. “I already told you, I don’t feel that way about you. I love Alexander, and nothing will change that.”
But Benjamin refused to listen, his persistence bordering on obsession as he continued to press his case. ” Alexander doesn’t deserve you. He only hurt you in the end,” he insisted.
Sophia’s frustration boiled over as she struggled to reason with Benjamin. 11 That is enough, Ben! I’m not going to stand here and listen to you badmouth Alexander,” she declared, her voice ringing with defiance. “You need to accept that I’d made my choice, and nothing you said would have changed that.”
Sophia took a deep breath, her anger simmering beneath the surface as she watched Benjamin storm out of the room. Despite her shock and disbelief at his outburst, she knew she couldn’t have let his bitterness poison their friendship any further. With a determined stride, she followed him, her mind racing with thoughts of how to calm the situation.
“Benjamin, wait,” she called out, her voice firm but tinged with concern.
Benjamin whirled around, his eyes ablaze with frustration and hurt. ” What?” he snapped, his tone sharp and accusatory.
Sophia held up her hands in a gesture of peace, stepping closer to him. “Ben, please. Let’s talk about this calmly,” she urged, her voice gentle but resolute.
Benjamin shook his head, his jaw clenched with pent-up emotion. “I can’t do it, Sophia. Not anymore,” he muttered, his voice thick with emotion.
Sophia’s heart sank at his words, her resolve wavering for a moment. But then she squared her shoulders, steeling herself against the flood of conflicting emotions. “Benjamin, we have been friends for years,” she began, her voice steady despite the turmoil churning inside her. “I care about you deeply, but you have to understand… I can’t force myself to feel something I don’t.”
Benjamin’s shoulders slumped in defeat, a mix of resignation and sadness flickering across his features. ” I just… I can’t stand seeing you with him, Sophia,” he admitted, his voice barely above a whisper.
Sophia’s jaw tightened. “Alexander is the love of my life,” she said firmly, her voice unwavering. “I am not backing down from that, Ben. And I need you to respect that.”
After the Divorce: Crushed on My Lawyer Ex-wife Chapter 180
#180 “Liar.”
Sophia’s mind raced with a whirlwind of emotions after Benjamin’s shocking confession. She needed to clear her head, so she decided to take a solitary walk through the familiar streets of her neighborhood. The cool evening air brushed against her skin, offering a slight comfort amidst the turmoil within.
She had never expected Benjamin to have feelings for her. Sophia walked aimlessly but made sure not to stray too far from the house. She had left Benjamin alone because their conversation wasn’t going in the direction she wanted it to go. He hated Alexander, and Sophia could not accept his attitude.
As she strolled along, lost in her thoughts, she couldn’t shake the feeling of unease creeping up her spine.
Glancing over her shoulder, she caught sight of a figure lurking in the shadows, their presence sending a shiver down her spine. Heart pounding, Sophia quickened her pace, her footsteps echoing against the pavement as she hurried back towards the safety of her home.
Arriving at her doorstep, she fumbled for her keys, her hands trembling with nervous energy. Just as she managed to unlock the door, she realized with a sinking feeling that Benjamin wasn’t home either. Panic began to rise within her chest as she contemplated the possibility of facing whatever danger lurked outside alone.
Sophia turned on all the lights in the house and headed for the kitchen. She made herself a hot chocolate, which always calmed her down. She was just starting to relax when a sudden knock on the door shattered the silence, causing Sophia to jump in surprise. She heard a distant voice announce ” Delivery.” Her pulse quickened as she cautiously approached the door, her senses on high alert.
As Sophia hesitated at the door, grappling with the decision to accept the package, her nerves frayed with uncertainty.
To her immense relief, standing before her was not a stranger or a potential threat, but Alexander, his concerned expression etched with worry. Relief flooded through Sophia’s veins as she hurriedly hugged him.
“Alexander!” she exclaimed, her voice a mix of surprise and relief. “Thank goodness it’s you.”
Alexander’s eyes softened with concern as he took in Sophia’s disheveled appearance and the tension etched in her features, “Sophia, are you alright?” he asked, his voice filled with genuine concern.
Sophia nodded, a wave of emotion washing over her at the sight of him. ” I’m fine. I thought… never mind. Come in.”
As Alexander stepped into the house, Sophia couldn’t help but notice the tension radiating from him. Confusion knitted her brows as she tried to decipher his demeanor. “Is something wrong?” she ventured, her voice tinged with concern.
“Are you seriously asking me this question?” Alexander’s tone was sharp, cutting through the air like a knife. ” Where’s Benjamin?”
Sophia’s frown deepened at the coldness in his tone. “I don’t know. He’s gone somewhere,” she replied, her voice tinged with frustration.
“What are you doing with him, Sophia? “Alexander’s words were laced with accusation, his eyes searching Sophia’s face for answers.
Sophia’s arms instinctively crossed over her chest, a defensive gesture against Alexander’s probing questions. “What is this interrogation? I don’t understand,” she retorted, her voice tinged with indignation. “What are you accusing me of, Alexander?”
“Why didn’t you pick up the phone, Sophia? I was out of my mind,” Alexander continued, his frustration evident in the crease of his brow.
“I lost my phone, Alexander. Nothing much happened,” Sophia replied, her voice full with exasperation.
“Right? And when exactly did you lose it?” Alexander’s skepticism hung heavy in the air, his distrust palpable.
“When I arrived. That’s why I didn’t call you,” Sophia shot back.
“Liar,” Alexander accused, his tone sharp with disbelief.
Sophia’s eyes widened in shock at the accusation, hurt flashing in her gaze. Why do you think I’m lying to you?” she countered.
“Why was Benjamin picking up your phone and sending those pictures? I don’t know how to understand this, Sophia. Are you still mad at me from our last argument? Is this revenge?” Alexander’s words came out in a rush, his frustration and confusion taking control.
“I don’t understand anything,” Sophia admitted, shaking her head in disbelief.
Alexander reached into his pocket and pulled out his phone, flipping through the images and messages Benjamin had sent him. Sophia’s heart sank as she realized the extent of Benjamin’s deception. She felt a surge of anger and betrayal coursing through her veins, her mind reeling with the implications of his actions.
As Alexander showed Sophia the pictures of her and Benjamin, along with the messages he received, Sophia’s shock turned into a cocktail of emotions-anger, disbelief, and hurt mingled within her. She stared at the screen, feeling as if the ground had been pulled out from beneath her feet.
“I can’t believe this,” she muttered, her voice barely above a whisper. “Why would he do that?”
“So you’re telling me you had nothing to do with it?”
Sophia’s eyes narrowed at Alexander’s question, a flicker of hurt flashing across her features. She shook her head vehemently, her voice tinged with frustration.
“No, of course not,” she replied, her tone firm. “I had no idea Benjamin was doing any of this. I wouldn’t betray you like that, Alexander. You know me.”
Alexander studied her carefully, his expression unreadable. “I want to believe you, Sophia. But this… it’s hard to ignore the evidence,” he said, gesturing towards his phone.
Sophia’s heart sank at the doubt in Alexander’s eyes. She knew she had to make him understand, to prove to him that she was innocent. With a deep breath, she met his gaze with unwavering determination.
“I swear to you, Alexander. I’ll confront Benjamin and get to the bottom of this. I won’t let him ruin what we have,” she declared, her voice laced with resolve.
Alexander nodded. “Okay, Sophia. I trust you,”