Ch. 41..50

After the Divorce: Crushed on My Lawyer Ex-wife Chapter 41

#41 “She Changed the Contract.”

Emily paced nervously outside Alexander’s office. He had called his lawyer Steven. She couldn’t hear their conversation, but she was definitely going to do her best to find out what was going on. The moment the lawyer came out of the office, Emily headed straight for him.

“Steven, may I have a moment of your time?” Emily asked, her tone polite but with a hint of urgency. Steven hesitated for a moment, his eyes darting between Emily and Alexander’s closed office door. “Of course, Emily. What can I help you with?”

Emily motioned toward a nearby quiet corner, away from prying ears. “Let’s talk over there, away from any potential eavesdroppers.”

They moved to a more discreet spot, and Emily got straight to the point.

“I’ll be forward. I know you know Sophia Johnson is Alexander’s ex-wife, “Emily stated firmly, her eyes fixed on Steven. Steven, caught off guard, attempted to feign surprise, but Emily’s unyielding expression didn’t waver.

“I remember when you met Sophia at Bistro 45, and I’m sure while you were sorting out their divorce papers, it became abundantly clear to you who she was.”

As the weight of Emily’s words settled in, Steven swallowed nervously, beads of perspiration forming on his forehead. It was all Emily needed to confirm that he indeed knew Sophia’s true identity.

“You see, Steven, I have a way of making people talk. Now, spill the truth, and maybe, just maybe, things won’t get too messy for you.”

“I don’t know what you’re talking about,” Steven stammered. Emily leaned in closer, her eyes fixed on him, her voice low and threatening. “Steven, I’ve done my homework. I know about the secret deals you’ve been making under the table, the hidden accounts, and the offshore transactions. Do you really think your little escapades would remain hidden forever?”

Steven’s face paled as he realized that Emily had information that could not only ruin his career but also land him in jail. He swallowed hard, the fear evident in his s eyes.

His voice shaking as he finally cracked under Emily’s pressure. “Alright, alright,” he muttered, defeated. “Yes, I knew. Sophia is Alexander’s ex-wife. She changed the divorce agreement.”

Emily’s eyes gleamed with triumph as the pieces of the puzzle fell into place. She had the leverage she needed, a potent weapon against Sophia. With this newfound information, she began to devise a plan to confront Sophia and win back Alexander, determined to use this knowledge to her advantage.

Emily smirked, satisfied with the information she had extracted. “Now, that wasn’t so hard, was it? Now, tell me how Sophia modified the divorce papers.”

“It appears that Sophia modified the divorce agreement,” Steven revealed. ” She intends to take half of Alexander’s subsidiary’s shares.”

Emily’s frown deepened, and her eyes bore into Steven as she decided it was time to press the lawyer for more information.

“What was your meeting with Alexander about?” she asked. Steven hesitated for a moment, realizing that Emily was not one to be trifled with. He sighed, his shoulders slumping, and finally relented. ” Alright, Emily,” he conceded, “but this information is strictly confidential.”

“I can assure you, Steven,” Emily retorted, her tone firm, “your personal matters won’t remain private if you don’t start talking.”

Under the weight of her threat, Steven sighed again and began to divulge the details. “Well, Alexander wants to halt the transfer of his funds from William’s Bank. He asked me to find a more reliable banking partner.”

The shock of this revelation caused Emily to inadvertently raise her voice.” What?”

Realizing that she had attracted the attention of everyone in the office, Emily quickly lowered her tone, her voice a hiss. “He wants to sever all ties with my family?”

Steven nodded, maintaining his composure even as Emily’s anger flared. “At least with their business, yes,” he confirmed.

Emily couldn’t believe how easily Alexander was willing to cut her family off because of some scandal. Her initial shock quickly transformed into simmering anger as she considered the implications.

It was all because of that woman, Sophia. Emily wasn’t about to let this situation stand. She turned to Steven, her smile now malevolent.

“Don’t tell Alexander that his ex-wife is Sophia,” she instructed, her voice dripping with determination. “And I want you to deliver a message to him, but under no circumstances mention that we spoke.”

As reluctant as Steven was to participate in such schemes, the fear of repercussions forced him to comply. He knew that Emily’s influence and determination were not to be underestimated, and he had just become entangled in a web of secrets and deceit that he couldn’t easily escape.

*

In the sprawling, glass-walled office of Stone Enterprise, Alexander sat at his desk, his face etched with worry. The weight of the world seemed to rest on his shoulders, and he had been trying to bury himself in work to escape his turbulent thoughts about Sophia. The silence was oppressive, broken only by the hum of the city beyond the windows.

Suddenly, the door swung open, Steven, the lawyer, walked in again and with a solemn expression. Alexander looked up, his curiosity piqued by the unexpected interruption.

“What is it, Steven?” Alexander asked, his voice tinged with impatience.

Steven took a deep breath, steeling himself for what he was about to reveal. “Alexander, there’s something you need to know,” he began, his tone grave. Alexander leaned forward, his eyes fixed on Steven. “Go on.”

“Sophia was the person who helped your ex-wife take away half of the subsidiary’s shares. She changed the contract.

Alexander’s eyes widened in shock, and his heart raced as he tried to process the gravity of the revelation. “What? Are you sure?”

Steven nodded solemnly. “I’ve found evidence of Sophia’s interactions with your ex-wife. It appears she approached you with the intention of manipulating you and benefiting from it.”

Alexander’s mind raced as he recalled the moments he had shared with Sophia. He had always believed in her and now, the possibility of betrayal hung heavily in the air.

“This can’t be true,” he muttered, shaking his head in denial.

But Emily, who had been waiting in the shadows, stepped forward with a determined look in her eyes. “If you don’t believe it, Alexander, then go talk to Sophia in person. Confront her with the evidence and see for yourself.”

Alexander hesitated, torn between disbelief and the need for answers. The office seemed to close in around him as he grappled with the shocking revelation.

After the Divorce: Crushed on My Lawyer Ex-wife Chapter 42

#42 “I Can’t Believe I Let Myself Trust You.”

In the brisk morning, Sophia received a message from her best friend, Evelyn, asking to meet for coffee. Despite her overflowing schedule, Sophia hadn’t seen Evelyn in a while and decided to make time for her.

Swiftly, Sophia got ready and left her apartment. The café was conveniently close, so she opted for a leisurely walk.

Upon entering the café, she glanced around but didn’t spot Evelyn. Sophia figured her friend was running late and decided to take a seat, patiently waiting.

As she settled into her chair, a man unexpectedly joined her table. Sophia furrowed her brow, ready to make a pointed remark, but then she recognized him. It was one of the journalists who had aggressively pursued her a few days ago.

Sophia had refused to engage with him then, and she had no intention of divulging any information now.

“My answer will remain the same as before: ‘No comment.’ Please go away; I’m waiting for someone,” Sophia stated firmly. The man wore a wicked smile but refused to budge from his seat.

“Ms. Johnson, I presume you’re waiting for Evelyn?” he retorted. Sophia felt something was amiss but remained composed. “That’s none of your business,” she replied curtly.

“Well, as a journalist, it’s my job to know everything about everyone. And I’ve learned some rather intriguing things about you.”

“I don’t care. Leave me alone.”

“You’re clearly not in the mood for games. Good, because I’ll be direct. I know you’re Alexander Stone’s ex-wife. Sophia remained silent, her expression one of disdain. While she had no desire for this information to go public, it wasn’t exactly a bombshell. She could handle it.

The journalist tossed a folder in her direction. Sophia caught it and perused the documents. The evidence was undeniable. He wasn’t bluffing.

“I also know that you’re the one who exposed the irregularities in Williams’ business. Impressive work, I must say, but you’re a lawyer, not a journalist, and you haven’t covered your tracks very well.”

“And I assume you were hired by Barbara to deliver this news to me?” Sophia inquired, her tone sharp.

Sophia marveled at the lengths the Williams family would go to cause her trouble. While she didn’t precisely understand their animosity toward her, it seemed to stem from Emily’s relentless desire to humiliate her at every turn.

“No, dear Sophia, I’m here to inform you that unless you comply with my request, I’ll go public with everything.”

“Are you trying to blackmail me?”

Sophia responded with an icy calm.

“Precisely.”

“And what, pray tell, do you want from me?”

“I want you to publicly admit that it was you who leaked the news about the Williams family, with the intention of damaging their reputation.”

“Interesting. If you already have the information, why don’t you release it yourself?” Sophia asked.

“My employer would be delighted to see you face the consequences of your own actions. After all, it was you who spread the news, and you should be the one to rectify it. You should also experience the bitterness of the scandal that you unleashed.”

“Nope. That’s not going to happen. I won’t let some intrusive reporter dictate my decisions. You stay out of my work, and I’ll stay out of yours, alright?”

Sophia rose to leave, but the reporter firmly gripped her arm.

“Perhaps this will persuade you,” he said ominously. He showed her a photo of her best friend, Evelyn, bound and blindfolded in the back of a van. She had been abducted.

Sophia’s heart raced, and panic surged through her. She needed to think quickly. “If you want to see your friend unharmed,” the journalist warned, “I suggest you cooperate.”

Evelyn meant the world to her, and this news sent a shiver down her spine. But Sophia knew she had to stay calm and think rationally to resolve the situation.

With unwavering determination, Sophia refused to comply with the journalist’s blackmail attempt. She gathered the evidence he had given her and made a firm decision to leave, her thoughts already racing towards securing Evelyn’s safety.

As she rose from her seat, her voice firm but laced with concern, she addressed the journalist. “I won’t play your games.”

The journalist wore a sinister grin, seemingly unfazed by her rejection. ” You’re making a big mistake, Sophia.”

Sophia shot back with unwavering resolve, “I don’t negotiate with blackmailers.”

Just as Sophia was about to make her exit, the café door swung open, and Alexander walked in. His sharp eyes immediately caught sight of Sophia and the journalist at the table, their hushed conversation, and the scattered documents.

Suspicion washed over him like a tidal wave as he picked up the papers. When he took a glimpse at the content, his heart sank. The information in these files could not be more clear that Sophia was involved in some dubious scheme.

Sophia remained outwardly composed, but internally, her emotions were in turmoil. The situation had taken an unexpected turn, and now, with Alexander’s involvement, it became even more complicated. Alexander began directly, taking the papers from her hands.

His voice heavy with accusation, demanded answers. “Sophia, is this what you’ve been up to? Working with my ex-wife behind my back, altering our divorce papers?”

Sophia, her demeanor outwardly composed but her heart racing, met Alexander’s gaze with a resolute calm. She didn’t deny the allegations; instead, she chose silence as her response, her eyes locking onto his.

“You’re also conspiring with journalists and spreading information? he continued to accuse her. The tension in the café grew palpable. Alexander, unable to contain his frustration, raised his voice. “Sophia, you owe me an explanation. Did you collude with my ex-wife to change our divorce terms?”

Sophia finally replied, “Yes, Alexander. I played my part in those changes.”

Sophia felt shaken to her core, a storm of emotions raging within her. However, a firm sense of rationality prevailed, guiding her through the tempest of emotions. Her rational side told her that she didn’t need to explain her actions to him, that her motivations were driven by a deeper purpose.

Believing it all to be true, Alexander’s voice trembled with disappointment and heartbreak as he confronted Sophia. “So, it’s all true. You deliberately manipulated the facts, played with everyone’s emotions.”

Sophia met his gaze, her eyes filled with a profound sadness. However, she remained stubbornly silent.

Alexander continued, “I can’t believe I let myself trust you. You approached me only to manipulate me and profit from it.”

As Sophia maintained her silence, Alexander’s anger and disappointment reached their boiling point. Without another word, he abruptly rose from his seat, his face etched with fury. At that moment, he made a resolute decision.

He stormed out of the café, his heart heavy with a sense of betrayal. As he walked away, he couldn’t help but feel that this was the end of the road for him and Sophia. He vowed to himself that he would never seek her out again.

Alexander couldn’t believe he had allowed himself to be manipulated and deceived in such a way. He felt a deep sense of self-directed anger, berating himself for having ever let his guard down and allowing himself to develop feelings for her.

After the Divorce: Crushed on My Lawyer Ex-wife Chapter 43

#43 “Evelyn? Abducted?”

Sophia sat alone in her apartment, a glass of wine in hand, her thoughts consumed by the events of the morning. It was unusual for her to skip work, but the situation had taken such a sudden and unexpected turn that she needed this moment alone to gather her thoughts.

As she sipped her wine, she couldn’t help but replay the confrontation with Alexander in her mind. She had kept the truth from him, and the knowledge that he believed she had been using him weighed heavily on her.

Yet, despite the bitterness of the situation, Sophia had come to the reluctant conclusion that it might be for the best that they didn’t meet again. It was time to leave her ex-husband in the past.

There were more pressing matters at hand, particularly the safety of her best friend, Evelyn, who was currently in captivity. Sophia knew she had to act swiftly; time was of the essence.

With determination in her eyes, Sophia decided to start by calling her parents. Evelyn had a close relationship with them and spoke to them every day, especially since they worked together. Sophia dialed her mother’s number, her impatience growing as the phone rang. After what felt like an eternity, Evelyn’s mother answered the phone. “Hello?”

Sophia wasted no time, urgency in her tone. “Hello, it’s Sophia. Have you heard from Evelyn or spoken to her today?”

Evelyn’s mother hesitated for a moment before replying. “No, Sophia, I haven’t heard from her today. Is something wrong?”

Sophia’s heart sank as she received the confirmation she had feared. “Yes, something’s very wrong. Evelyn’s missing, and I think she’s in trouble. We need to find her as soon as possible. 11

Evelyn’s mother’s voice quivered as she responded, “Oh my goodness, this is terrible news. We’ll do everything we can to locate her. Please, Sophia, let’s coordinate our efforts to find our dear girl.”

Sophia felt a wave of relief as Evelyn’s mother offered her support and cooperation. “Thank you. Let’s act quickly and work together to bring Evelyn back safely. I’ll see what I can do, but if you learn anything, contact me immediately.”

“Yes, of course,” Evelyn’s mother replied, her voice quivering with worry and fear. With their brief conversation coming to an end, Sophia hung up the phone and began pacing nervously around the room. Her mind raced with thoughts of Evelyn’s safety and what steps she needed to take next.

As Sophia contemplated her next move, her thoughts briefly drifted to the last time Alexander had come to her aid. She couldn’t help but feel a mix of emotions, including a sense of guilt for how things turned out between them.

However, she knew that her current focus had to be entirely on the urgent situation at hand-the search for her missing friend, Evelyn.

Sophia thought of a best friend who might throw some light on the case. Sophia swiftly dialed Benjamin’s number, her fingers trembling with urgency as the call connected.

“Benjamin, it’s Sophia,” she greeted, her voice filled with tension. “I need to know what’s happening at Grimms’ bank regarding Stone Enterprise and Williams Enterprises. Tell me everything.”

Benjamin replied promptly, “Sophia, Grimms’ bank has been closely monitoring Williams’ decline, and they’ve pounced on the opportunity to regain Stone Enterprise’s cooperation. They’re currently gathering all the necessary documents to compete for the deposit that Williams Enterprises recently acquired.”

Sophia absorbed the information quickly, realizing the implications. Evelyn’s abduction was a calculated move to disrupt their business competition and potentially jeopardize Stone Enterprise’s financial stability.

“Thank you, Benjamin, Stay vigilant and keep me updated on any developments,” Sophia instructed. As Sophia was about to end the call, Benjamin’s voice interrupted her, his tone filled with gentle concern.

“Wait a minute, Sophia,” he said, ” something’s not right. You sound worried. What’s going on?”

Sophia hesitated for a moment, her heart heavy with the weight of the situation. She took a deep breath before responding, “Benjamin, it’s Evelyn. She’s been abducted, and I’m deeply concerned.”

Benjamin’s voice conveyed his shock and concern as he replied, “Evelyn? Abducted? Are you sure, Sophia?”

“Yes, I’m sure,” Sophia replied firmly. Benjamin asked, “What happened? Tell me everything.”

Sophia realized that she could trust Benjamin with the details and proceeded to recount the events leading up to Evelyn’s disappearance. She explained the potential motivations behind it, the involvement of Grimms’ bank.

Listening intently, Benjamin assured her, “Sophia, I’ll do everything in my power to help. We’ll find Evelyn and get to the bottom of this. Stay strong.”

Sophia thanked him and ended the conversation. She knew she had one more call to make. As much as she wondered if he was the right person, Sophia still didn’t have much of a choice. Wasting no time, she called Michael.

When Michael answered, he greeted her casually, unaware of the storm brewing in her life. “And that’s if it’s not the beautiful Sophia, what can I do for you today?”

Sophia rolled her eyes but replied, ” Michael, I need your help with something important. I need information about someone.”

“Of course, Sophia, you know I’m here for you. What do you need?” Sophia explained the situation without divulging the details of the blackmail, not wanting to inform Michael. She still didn’t trust him fully.

“I need information about a person who’s been causing trouble. I want to find out who they are and what they’re up to.”

“You know, Sophia, helping you with this favor is no small task. I hope you’re prepared to repay me properly.”

“What do you want?” she asks directly.

“I want one night with you and your perfect body,” he replies smugly. Sophia bristled at his comment, the frustration with his suggestive tone bubbling to the surface. She retorted firmly, “Michael, let’s stay focused on the task at hand. We can discuss any repayment’ later.”

With that, she left the conversation hanging, determined to get the information she needed without being sidetracked by Michael’s playful banter.

After ending her call with Michael, Sophia’s mind was abuzz with thoughts and suspicions. She had a hunch about who might be behind all the chaos that had entered her life.

As she contemplated the puzzle that had unfolded before her, Sophia couldn’t help but feel a renewed sense of determination. She knew that uncovering the truth and putting an end to the turmoil would be a challenging and dangerous task, but she was ready to face whatever lay ahead.

Despite everything, Sophia already had a clear idea of who could be behind all this.

After the Divorce: Crushed on My Lawyer Ex-wife Chapter 44

#44 “Could It Be Possible that She’s… My Ex-wife?”

Alexander had canceled all his appointments for the day, choosing to drown his sorrows in whiskey as he grappled with the whirlwind of emotions that had consumed him.

He couldn’t help but reflect on how things had gone so wrong. Sophia had entered his life like a whirlwind, and he had genuinely grown fond of her-her beauty, intelligence, and stubbornness had all captivated him.

However, in tamid allure, he had failed to see the manipulations that lay beneath the surface.

He thought back to that passionate kiss they had shared, the one that had made him believe there was something more between them. The confusion of her actions-kissing him one moment and betraying him the next-left him feeling hurt and bewildered.

Just as he was lost in his thoughts, his phone rang, displaying Michael’s name on the screen. Initially, Alexander contemplated ignoring the call, but curiosity compelled him to answer.

“What do you want?” he grumbled. Michael replied smugly, “Wow, someone’s in a sour mood. I’m just calling to let you know, Alexander, that I’ve won.”

Alexander couldn’t muster much interest. “What did you win?”

Michael chuckled, clearly enjoying his moment of triumph. “Sophia, my friend. She called me for help in finding her kidnapped friend, Evelyn.”

The mention of Evelyn being kidnapped immediately snapped Alexander to attention. He didn’t know why he cared so much, but he couldn’t help but ask, “Evelyn’s been kidnapped?”

Michael’s response was filled with amusement. “You don’t even know? Apparently, she really doesn’t trust you.

Alexander decided he didn’t need to endure Michael’s taunts any longer. He simply hung up the phone, leaving the conversation hanging in the air.

The news of Sophia seeking Michael’s help to find Evelyn left Alexander with a bitter taste in his mouth. It was a haunting reminder of the last time he had found himself in competition with Michael to assist Sophia.

It only made him even more certain that she had been using both of them since day one to help her. The woman he had fallen in love with, Sophia, had seemingly approached him with hidden. motives right from the beginning.

Alexander thought she took advantage of him, which didn’t make his pain any less. Shortly after Alexander’s tumultuous phone call with Michael, a knock echoed through his quiet and dimly lit study. Startled, he set aside his glass of whiskey and called out, “Who is it?”

The door creaked open, and Kyle, the persistent journalist who had been hot on Sophia’s trail, entered the room with an eager and slightly triumphant expression. He couldn’t contain his excitement as he held up a file filled with documents.

“Alexander, my friend, you won’t believe what I’ve uncovered,” Kyle exclaimed, his voice filled with enthusiasm.

“What have you got, Kyle? Make it quick.” Alexander said still irritated. from his previous conversation. With a sly grin, Kyle began to divulge the groundbreaking news, “I’ve been digging deep into Sophia’s background, and I’ve found something that could change everything. Your family, Alexander, they were involved in covering up the news of Sophia’s marriage.”

Alexander’s eyes widened in disbelief.” What? My family? What interest do they have in this?”

Kyle nodded, his excitement growing.” Yes, your family. It’s as if there’s a deep connection between Sophia and your family that goes beyond what we initially thought.”

As Alexander absorbed this revelation, a sense of unease settled over him. “I’ve gathered evidence, Alexander.” Kyle started and towered over Alexander showing him documents.

“These are copies of the divorce papers, hidden away. I’ve also found records of name changes and her past connections. It all aligns, and it’s clear that she went to great lengths to conceal her true identity.”

“OK, but why? What does this have to do with my family?” Alexander asked still confused. “How can I say it… If you look at the dates you will notice that they coincide with your divorce.”

Alexander shuddered. He knew what Kyle was implying. Alexander’s eyes darted between the documents, each one a piece of a puzzle that had now fallen into place.

The room hung heavy with tension, the weight of the revelation settling like a thick fog. Alexander finally found his voice, though it trembled with uncertainty. “Could it be possible that she’s… my ex-wife?”

Kyle nodded solemnly, his eyes fixed on Alexander as if gauging his reaction.”

I’ve checked and double-checked the evidence, Alexander. There’s no doubt about it. Sophia is your ex-wife.”

A maelstrom of emotions churned within Alexander-shock, disbelief, anger, and a deep sense of betrayal. He had shared intimate moments with Sophia, had felt a genuine connection, and now it all seemed like a cruel joke.

Alexander made a resolute decision. He needed to confront Sophia and clear the air, to unravel the web of deception that had entangled them both. The revelation of her true identity, the possibility that she was his ex-wife, had left him with no other choice but to seek answers and closure.

He turned to Kyle, determination in his eyes. “Kyle, I need all the evidence you’ve gathered. I’m going to confront Sophia about this, and I want to be armed with the truth.”

“I see, take them,” Kyle said and handed him the documents. As Alexander takes them he can sense that Kyle is hesitant.

“Just spit it out,” Alexander prodded him impatiently. With a deep breath, Kyle spoke his mind. “Don’t jump to conclusions, Alex. Your family hardly withheld this information for no reason.”

Alexander scoffed, his skepticism evident. “And you think she’s innocent? “he retorted. Kyle leaned in, his tone earnest. “I think it wouldn’t hurt to take it easy. Let’s find out the truth without making accusations.”

Alexander contemplated Kyle’s words. His family had always had his best interests at heart, and he couldn’t believe they would hide something so significant without a valid reason.

“I want one more favor,” Alexander said, his voice resolute.

Kyle leaned back, curious. “I’m listening.” “Sophia’s best friend is missing. Can you help me find her?” Alexander inquired. Kyle’s eyebrows raised in suspicion. ” Which friend?”

“Evelyn,” Alexander replied. Kyle’s demeanor shifted, his interest piqued. “Interesting… very interesting.”

Alexander was puzzled. “What’s interesting about it? It’s a tragedy.” Kyle nodded in agreement but then added cryptically, “Yes, of course, but there are some things that make an impression on me.”

Alexander pressed for an explanation. What do you mean?”

“She disappears right when you decide to work with her family again,” Kyle remarked.

Realization dawned on Alexander, and he wasted no time in taking action. He swiftly called his secretary and instructed her to assist in the search for Evelyn’s whereabouts. With efficiency, his secretary managed to retrieve the surveillance footage from the café.

As Alexander and Kyle reviewed the video, they spotted the journalist who had blackmailed Sophia.

Kyle’s eyes narrowed as recognition dawned on him, his voice tinged with disbelief. “Wait a minute, that’s Mark! I can’t believe he’s involved in this.”

Alexander’s jaw clenched with determination as he processed this new information. “We need to move fast. Mark might hold the key to finding Evelyn and getting to the bottom of all this.”

Without wasting another moment, Alexander sprang into action. He immediately mobilized his resources, instructing his team to track down Mark’s movements and gather any information they could on his involvement.

“I don’t like this, Alexander,” Kyle admitted, concern etched across his face. “Mark is the meanest journalist I know. If he’s involved, then we’re dealing with something much more sinister.”

After the Divorce: Crushed on My Lawyer Ex-wife Chapter 45

#45 “He should be Mine!”

Kyle had shared more details about his colleague with Alexander. It turned out that the journalist who blackmailed Sophia had a notorious history of being involved in various scandals, making their situation even more precarious.

Alexander knew he had to call Sophia and inform her about what they had discovered regarding Evelyn’s kidnapping. The weight of the truth about Sophia being his ex-wife still lingered in his mind.

Everything that had transpired between them began to make sense: her initial coldness, her enigmatic remarks about him being a copy of her ex-husband, and the hidden layers of their interactions.

As he dialed Sophia’s number, Alexander couldn’t help but feel a mix of emotions. Anger, confusion, and a of emotions. Anger, confusion, and a sense of missed opportunities gnawed at him. He wondered if he had been a better husband during their three-year marriage, would their lives have taken a different turn? He had genuine feelings for her, and he regretted not making more effort to meet her at least.

However, he also couldn’t ignore the anger he felt toward her for keeping such a significant secret from him.

Despite his reservations, he ultimately decided to do the right thing and help her with the information he had about Evelyn’s kidnapping.

His hands trembled slightly as he waited for Sophia to answer the call, hidden in his pants pockets. The seconds ticked by, and his anticipation grew.

*

Michael had stopped by Sophia’s office. The two had been debating their options for what felt like an eternity, but had reached an impasse, their frustration evident in the furrowed brows and weary eyes they exchanged.

Sophia slumped back in her creaky office chair, feeling a growing sense of despair creeping inside her. She rubbed her temples, trying to alleviate the pounding headache that had been haunting her all day. The weight of not knowing where their dear friend Evelyn was had taken a toll on her.

Just as Sophia was about to voice her frustration, her phone rang, jolting her from her thoughts. Her tired eyes widened with surprise as she saw Alexander’s name on the caller ID. After all that had happened, she hadn’t expected to hear from him.

Sophia hesitated for a moment, the uncertainty and exhaustion warring within her. She thought about picking it up. She then decided it was stupid to hide and picked up the phone.

“Hello,” Sophia said.

Silence, heavy and pregnant with anticipation, greeted her on the other end of the line. She wondered if Alexander had dialed her by mistake.

“Sophia, I have information about Evelyn,” Alexander began directly. Sophia’s heart skipped a beat. She leaned forward, gripping the phone tightly. “Alexander, please, tell us everything you know,” she implored.

Sophia, wanting to keep Michael in the loop and encourage transparency, put her phone on speaker.

“Who’s with you?” Alexander asked.

“Hello, brother,” Michael replied snidely. Sophia shot Michael a warning look, but it went unnoticed.

On the other end of the line, Alexander was clutching his phone furiously, his frustration evident in the tight grip of his hand. He hated it when Michael hovered around her.

“Sophia, I think the journalist I saw you with has something to do with the case,” Alexander said, his voice grave. Sophia sighed. “Well, obviously, but…”

“Listen, he’s always dealing in dishonest deals. I suggest you be careful,” Alexander continued, his concern for her evident in his words. “I looked up who he is, and I am sending you the information on email.”

Just as Sophia was about to thank Alexander for his assistance, she realized that he had hung up on her. She glanced at the email notification on her computer screen and quickly opened it. The information about the journalist’s dubious history and connections was laid out before her.

Sophia turned her attention back to Michael. “We have to report it to the police.”

“And I think it’s about time we did,” Michael replied, nodding in agreement.

They wasted no time. Together, Sophia and Michael collected all the evidence they had gathered during their search, including any information they had received from Alexander and their own investigative efforts. With a folder of documents, photographs, and notes in hand, they headed out to their car, parked just outside the building.

Once inside the car, they shared a moment of silent determination before Sophia started the engine. Their destination was clear – the nearest police station.

Shortly after arriving at the police station and reporting the situation, Sophia and Michael anxiously waited for updates on Evelyn’s condition and the circumstances surrounding her discovery. The minutes felt like hours as they contemplated the possible outcomes.

As Sophia paced nervously back and forth in her apartment, her thoughts a whirlwind of emotions and worries, her phone rang. Without bothering to check the caller ID, she answered with trembling hands.

“Miss Johnson, Officer Rod is calling, we’ve found Evelyn,” a voice on the other end of the line announced.

Sophia’s heart leaped with joy at the news. “My God,” she said, her voice quivering with relief. “Is she okay?”

Officer Rod’s voice remained calm and reassuring. “She’s shocked but in a stable condition,” he replied. Sophia could hardly contain her elation. “I’ll be right there,” she exclaimed before hastily hanging up the phone.

With her heart pounding, Sophia grabbed her bag and dashed out the door. She knew she needed to get to Evelyn as soon as possible.

While rushing to her car, Sophia began making phone calls to inform everyone about the good news. The sense of relief and joy she felt was shared by everyone who had been tirelessly searching for Evelyn.

Everyone had gathered at the police station in less than 10 minutes. They weren’t allowed to see Evelyn yet, but they knew the interrogations would be over soon.

Not long after their intense session with the journalist in the interrogation room, the police officers emerged, their faces displaying a mix of disbelief and astonishment. The journalist had just dropped a bombshell, confessing to a series of jaw-dropping crimes that were intricately linked.

As the officers stepped into the well-lit lobby of the police station, their eyes widened with a mesmerized curiosity. What greeted them was a sight that defied their expectations.

Standing together, in an almost surreal gathering, were the crème de la crème of the city’s social circles-names like Sophia, Michael, and even the influential Grimms family. Seeing these prominent figures assembled at a police station, united in solidarity, was nothing short of extraordinary and left the officers both baffled and intrigued.

Sophia, the epitome of grace under pressure, stood tall, her expression a blend of determination and relief.

The police officers gathered themselves and approached the distinguished group, clearing their throats to get their attention. They knew that this was no ordinary case, and the revelations from the journalist’s confession were about to take everyone by surprise.

With a sense of gravity in his voice, one of the officers began to share the startling details that had emerged. Ladies and gentlemen, we’ve just concluded our interrogation with the journalist, and he has made some rather shocking admissions.”

He continued, “The journalist confessed to spreading false news about Sophia’s involvement in bribery, all orchestrated by a woman named Emily. Emily paid him to tarnish Sophia’s reputation and gather information about her identity.”

The police officer went on,” Furthermore, Emily was also involved in the kidnapping of Evelyn.”

Sophia was furious, but not surprised. She suspected Emily and her family, but she didn’t have the proof until now.

At that moment, the door to the police station’s lobby swung open, and Emily was escorted in by two stern-faced policemen. Her eyes darted around the room, finally settling on Sophia’s angry gaze.

As soon as she saw Sophia’s unrelenting expression, Emily halted in her tracks, a deep sense of frustration washing over her. She knew she had to face the consequences of her actions, and facing Sophia’s anger was just the beginning.

“Why, Emily?” Sophia finally asked.

“I… I liked Alexander. When I found out about his feelings for you, I couldn’t bear the thought of losing him to you.”

Emily confessed, her voice choked with emotion. Sophia’s brows furrowed, her eyes searching for answers. “But why did you go to such extreme lengths, Emily? Why did you dig into my past and involve innocent people like Evelyn?”

Emily’s expression darkened and grew increasingly frantic as she poured out her confession. “I believed that if I could uncover your secrets and tarnish your reputation, Alexander would see you differently! I wanted to protect what we had. And your friend’s company… it would destroy my parents! I had to do something!” Her words carried a desperate tone, tinged with hysteria and desperation.

“Emily, there were better ways to handle your emotions. What you did was destructive,” Sophia responded, her voice laced with disappointment.” And your parents’ company failed because of their own actions, not because of Evelyn.”

Emily stared at Sophia, “Handle my emotions? You have no idea what I’ve been through! I’ve known Alexander since we were kids, and I love him! He should be mine! But the moment you appeared, you stole all his attention away from me! And now your friend is taking advantage of the situation, ruining my parents’ business! Do you think she’s innocent?”

Just as Emily finished her confession, she turned her head slightly and noticed Alexander’s presence. He had silently observed the entire conversation, his face a mixture of shock and disbelief.

Their eyes locked for a moment, and suddenly, Emily’s expression changed. Remorse and realization flooded her consciousness. Her voice quivered as she spoke, “Alexander, I… I didn’t know. Please, Alexander, listen to me. I was blinded by my own insecurities and fears. I never meant to hurt anyone, especially not you. Can you find it in your heart to forgive me?”

Alexander’s gaze remained fixed on Emily, his eyes filled with disappointment. He finally broke the silence, his voice heavy with the weight of their shared history. “I didn’t expect you to be so cunning, Emily.”

“Alexander, thank you for coming,” Sophia said. He nodded, but complicated feelings flooded past his eyes. “Of course I will come.”

As the police led Emily away, she couldn’t help but steal one last glance at Alexander and Sophia. Their interaction spoke volumes, and it was clear that something profound existed between them.

Tears welled up in Emily’s eyes, she felt a sense of defeat washing over her. She failed. The way Alexander looked at Sophia was something she had once believed was meant for her, but now she realized, it was no longer her place.

After the Divorce: Crushed on My Lawyer Ex-wife Chapter 46

#46 “You Bailed Out Emily?”

Sophia and Alexander were silent after the police took Emily away. Endlessly tired and confused, Sophia couldn’t deny her gratitude for the help Alexander had given her. Without him, she might not have been able to save Evelyn.

Yet, beneath her gratitude, her emotions remained tangled. She was still angry with Alexander for their past. The past couldn’t simply be forgotten or erased.

The unexpected kiss they had shared had stirred up feelings she didn’t want, feelings that both scared and intrigued her. What scared her the most was how much she liked it.

As they stood there, the unsaid words and unresolved tension hung in the air, leaving them both with a sense of unease. Alexander cleared his throat to get Sophia’s attention.

“What do you want us to do with Emily? “he finally asked. Sophia turned to him, the anger evident in her eyes. “I want them to bear the full consequences for everything they have done. Fraud, money laundering, dealing, and kidnapping. I want everything to be fair. still

Alexander shook his head, a gesture that caused Sophia to immediately pull away from him, her frustration palpable. Alexander felt a sickening stab in his heart at her reaction, he didn’t want her to avoid him.

“Leave it in the past, Sophia,” Alexander implored. “I promise you they won’t harm you again, but please, let Emily go.”

Sophia retreated even further, her disbelief and anger mounting. “You want to save your little darling while she tries to ruin my life and that of my loved ones?”

“It’s not like that, Sophia, I don’t love her.”

“Yeah, right! You want me not to press charges so she and her rotten family can continue to cause trouble.”

Alexander opened his mouth to object again, but then Michael appeared behind Sophia. He wrapped his arms around her and whispered in her ear loud enough for Alexander to hear, Come on, Sophie, you need to rest, not argue.”

Sophia didn’t need a second invitation. With one final, piercing glare at Alexander, she turned and went with Michael, her footsteps echoing through the tense silence that had enveloped them.

As Alexander stood there, the frustration and helplessness he felt began to turn into anger, and he couldn’t help but direct some of that anger toward Michael. He always intervened between them. Alexander wanted a moment with her, where no one would interrupt them, so he could explain, talk.

Michael, however, kept sitting in their way. He had dug his claws into her and wouldn’t let her go.

*

Two days later, Sophia was finally able to visit Evelyn, who had been allowed to go home. The relief of seeing her friend safe and sound overwhelmed Sophia as she walked through the door.

Evelyn wasted no time in sharing everything she had been through, the harrowing experiences and the fear that had gripped her. The two friends embraced tightly, tears streaming down their faces as they found solace in each other’s arms.

On principle, Sophia had always been the one to hold back her emotions, but when she watched her best friend cry tears of both sorrow and relief, she couldn’t help but let her own tears flow freely.

Sitting together, wrapped in a warm blanket and sipping tea, Evelyn spoke with tears in her eyes, “This is exactly what I need, peace and people close to me. I didn’t think I’d see you again.”

Sophia smiled through her own tears. I would turn the world upside down to look for you, Evelyn. I’m so glad you’re home again.”

Her phone suddenly buzzed, and she saw Benjamin’s name. With a quick inhale, she answered the call.

“Hello, Benjamin,” she greeted. ” What’s going on?”

There was a moment of hesitation on the other end, a pause that seemed to stretch on endlessly. Then, Benjamin’s voice, usually calm and composed, held a somber note as he replied, “Sophia, I have some news you need to know. Emily has been released on bail.”

Sophia’s brows furrowed in disbelief, her heart sinking at the gravity of the situation. “What?” Her voice quivered with frustration. “How is that even possible, Benjamin? She was involved in all of this mess!”

Benjamin’s tone remained measured as he began to explain the legal intricacies. “Sophia, it’s a legal process. Her family posted bail, and her lawyer argued that she was not a flight risk. The court decided to grant bail.”

Sophia clenched her fist, her frustration simmering just below the surface. “I know how this works, Benjamin, I am a lawyer, but she’s a criminal! This is not right. She should face the consequences of her actions.”

“I heard Alexander helped her get released,” Benjamin added.

“But of course, he helped her,” Sophia remarked, her voice tinged with frustration. “Thanks for telling me, I’ll take over from here.”

“Okay, Sophie, keep me posted,” Benjamin replied. Their conversation ended, and Sophia wasted no time. She had to confront Alexander immediately. She dialed his number, and within moments, he answered.

Sophia’s voice was firm and devoid of pleasantries. “I’ll be in your office in 15 minutes. We need to talk.”

“Well, as you wish…” Alexander responded, clearly taken aback by her icy tone. Sophia hung up the phone and turned to her friend Evelyn.

“Evelyn, I have to go,” Sophia said. “I’ll come to see you again later.”

Evelyn, ever perceptive, looked at her friend with concern. “Is everything alright?”

Sophia forced a reassuring smile. “Yes, I got an urgent job.”

With that, the two friends reluctantly parted ways. Sophia hurriedly got into her car, her thoughts racing as she drove at breakneck speed to Alexander’s office. She couldn’t wait any longer to confront him about his actions.

Sophia arrived at Alexander’s office, her footsteps echoing in the corridor as she approached his door. She knocked, her impatience evident as she entered without waiting for a response.

Alexander, sitting behind his desk, looked up to face her. Sophia’s anger flared as she confronted Alexander from the doorway of his office. “You bailed out Emily?”

Alexander replied in a tired tone, “Is that what you want to talk about?”

“What were you thinking? I didn’t take up the case because if I were the opposing lawyer, I would knock them to the ground. But you get them out of any stipulation.”

Alexander leaned back in his chair, his face etched with a sense of resignation. He knew that his actions had caused a rift between them, and he struggled to find the right words to explain his motivations. Alexander sighed deeply. “Sophia, please sit down. I’ll explain.”

Sophia reluctantly took a seat, her gaze never leaving his. Alexander recounted a part of his past that he had never shared before.

He sighed deeply as he tried to explain his actions to Sophia “Emily’s family helped me during a very difficult time in my childhood. I felt compelled to do what I could to save them.”

Sophia’s anger flared in response. “But Alexander, they were criminals! They tried to ruin my life and Evelyn’s. Why are you protecting them?”

Alexander, his resolve unwavering, replied, “I know it’s hard to accept, Sophia, but they have lost everything. But I can assure you they won’t escape the legal consequences.”

Sophia pressed for details. “How so?”

“All their ill-gotten gains have been taken from them, and they will be sentenced for all of this. But I will not let you put them in jail.”

Sophia wanted to interrupt him, but he continued, determined to make her understand. “They saved me, and now I’m returning the favor. I’m sorry for everything, Sophia, and I did my best, but I won’t let you do this.”

“You’re holding on to the past,” Sophia accused him.

He smiled coldly. “Don’t you do the same?”

“What?”

“You also blame me for my past actions and punish me at every possible moment.”

“It’s not about us, Alexander,” she protested. “It’s never really about us, Sophia. I want us to try again.”

Sophia, confused and taken aback, asked, “What should we try?”

Alexander’s voice softened as he laid out his proposal. “Let’s try to give ourselves a chance, without the lies from before, without the schemes, without people to hinder us.”

Sophia couldn’t contain her laughter, finding the idea almost absurd. “You’re crazy, Alexander. After everything you and your friend Emily have put me through over the years, I’m not going to give you a chance.”

With that, she abruptly left his office, leaving Alexander alone.

 

After the Divorce: Crushed on My Lawyer Ex-wife Chapter 47

#47″Can’t A Mother Visit Her Son?”

Alexander sat in his office, his frustration evident in the way he drummed his fingers on the polished mahogany desk. His secretary, Laura, sensing his dissatisfaction, hesitated at the doorway.

“Is there something I can assist you with, Mr. Stone?” she asked cautiously. Alexander’s brows furrowed deeply, and he replied tersely, “Yes, there is. Sit down.”

The secretary complied, her unease growing as she took a seat across from him. Alexander’s frustration had been palpable for a while, and she braced herself for what was to come.

“You’ve been failing to uncover important information,” Alexander began, his voice sharp with irritation. The secretary tried to maintain her composure, though she had no idea what he was referring to. “I apologize, Mr. Stone. Could you please specify which information you’re referring to?”

Alexander’s anger boiled over as he grabbed a stack of documents from his desk and tossed them in her direction. They scattered across the desk.

“See for yourself,” he said, his tone dripping with exasperation. Laura’s eyes widened as she read the name on the documents. “Sophia Johnson? But… but I thought…”

Alexander cut her off, his patience wearing thin. “You thought wrong. Sophia Johnson is my ex-wife, and I can’t believe you failed to uncover this crucial detail.”

Laura stammered in response, her face flushed with embarrassment. “I… I had no idea, Mr. Stone. I apologize for the oversight.”

Alexander took a deep breath. “This miscommunication is unacceptable. I need you to find out why this happened. and rectify it immediately.”

The secretary nodded. “Of course, Mr. Stone. I’ll investigate and ensure this doesn’t happen again.”

Alexander watched as she scrambled to gather the scattered documents. Shortly after the tense encounter with his secretary, Alexander’s phone rang, and he saw his mother’s name on the caller ID. Surprised by the unexpected call, he answered.

“Mother? Is everything all right?” His mother’s voice, warm and familiar, came through the line. “Alexander, I’ve returned.”

Alexander’s heart skipped a beat. His mother had been abroad for a long time, and her sudden return without prior notice was unusual. “You’re back? That’s… unexpected. Is everything okay?”

Alexander felt a sense of relief as his mother’s warm laughter washed over him. “Yes, dear, everything is fine. Can’t a mother visit her son?” she asked with affection in her voice.

“Of course,” Alexander replied. As they spoke, Alexander’s thoughts couldn’t help but drift to the recent revelations that had upended his life. Among them was the shocking discovery that his family had been involved in concealing Sophia’s true identity from him.

Taking a deep breath, Alexander decided to broach the subject gently with his mother. “Mother, you know I recently got divorced, and…”

His mother interrupted him, her tone inviting. “Yes?”

Alexander hesitated for a moment, then continued, “What do you think about the subject? We haven’t discussed it.”

There was a prolonged silence on the other end of the line, and Alexander could sense the weight of his mother’s contemplation. Finally, she sighed.

“I think it would be best to discuss it in private.” Alexander nodded in acknowledgment of his mother’s response. “Yes, of course. Where are you staying?”

“In the villa,” she said. As Alexander heard that his mother was staying in the villa, where Sophia had once lived during their marriage, he felt a sharp stab of regret and guilt. This grand place, now devoid of Sophia’s presence, served as a stark reminder of his past neglect.

“I’ll come see you,” he replied, his voice carrying a hint of determination. With that, their conversation came to an end, leaving the weight of unspoken words hanging in the air. Alexander couldn’t sit still with the weight of his emotions and the need for answers. He decided to go to the villa immediately.

As Alexander returned to the villa, he couldn’t help but feel the weight of memories pressing down on him. The grand villa stood as a testament to his grandfather’s legacy. Generations of his family had resided within its walls, until their untimely departures.

In his younger days, Alexander would often visit the villa with his mother, cherishing the moments spent there alongside his beloved grandparents during the holidays. However, after their passing, the once vibrant abode remained unoccupied, its halls echoing with memories.

It wasn’t until his marriage to Sophia that the villa found new life, as she made it her new abode. Yet, burdened by the weight of an arranged marriage against his will, Alexander had resisted returning to this place since the day they signed the marriage license.

This was the place where Sophia had once lived alone during their marriage, a fact that had haunted him since Alexander learned of it. While his mother was out shopping, Alexander requested the butler to guide him around the places where Sophia had once lived.

The butler, ever composed and professional, led Alexander through the elegant halls and charming corners of the villa. His footsteps echoed on the marble floors as they visited the gardens, the library, and the cozy sitting room by the fireplace.

“Mrs. Sophia spent a lot of her time here, sir,” the butler said, indicating the lush garden with its blooming flowers. “And in the library, she often immersed herself in books.”

Alexander listened attentively as the butler continued, “And this sitting room, sir, was a favorite spot of hers. She enjoyed the view of the garden and the warmth of the fireplace.”

“Did anyone visit her?” Alexander inquired. The butler answered, “No, Mrs. Sophia always sat alone. She sometimes met her friend, Evelyn, but had no other visitors.”

Alexander felt a pang of guilt as he absorbed this information. “So she’s been sitting all alone all these years,” he muttered, more to himself than to the butler.

“She is a charismatic woman, sir. She has always treated us very well. She made this place a home. Most things are her idea-the decoration, the garden. She maintained everything.”

Alexander couldn’t help but appreciate the beauty and warmth that Sophia had brought to the villa. He could easily imagine raising a family here. However, this realization only deepened his sense of regret.

As he stood in the elegant surroundings, Alexander couldn’t escape the painful truth that his own actions and indifference had played a significant role in driving Sophia to a life of solitude. The weight of his neglect bore down on him, filling him with an overwhelming sense of guilt.

After absorbing this information, Alexander dismissed the butler with a nod of gratitude. As he stood alone in the villa, the echoes of his past mistakes resonated loudly. He couldn’t escape the realization of how he had failed Sophia during their marriage and the consequences of his actions.

As Alexander was lost in his thoughts and immersed in the memories of the villa, his mother’s return interrupted his reverie. He heard her call to him from the front door.

“Alexander,” she began, “I need to speak with you. Please meet me immediately.”

With one last lingering glance at the gorgeous garden that Sophia had lovingly tended, Alexander turned to his mother. Determination filled his heart, and he couldn’t wait to discuss everything, to shed light on his family’s relationship with Sophia.

After the Divorce: Crushed on My Lawyer Ex-wife Chapter 48

#48 “I Want Sophia Here With You for My Birthday.”

Alexander made his way to the front door to meet his mother, where she had left a huge pile of shopping bags and packages. He couldn’t help but chuckle, a familiar sight to him.

“Let me help you,” he offered with a warm laugh. Alexander’s mother, Caroline Stone, appeared before him as elegant as ever. Her blonde hair was neatly pulled back into a bun, with a few stray strands framing her face casually. She had always been a strikingly beautiful woman, and her radiance hadn’t diminished with time.

Her dark green eyes, so similar to Alexander’s, gazed at him warmly from the front door. She patted her white coat and approached him, opening her arms for a hug,

“You know I can’t resist when I step into a store,” she admitted with a playful smile. Alexander smiled. “Yes, I can see that. It’s why I work so hard to keep up financially with your impulse buys.”

She playfully furrowed her brows and tapped his nose. “We need to talk, Alexander,” she said with a seriousness that made him pause.

“Sure, do you want to sit in the garden? “Alexander offered, picking up her purchases and putting them back in the house.

“I love this garden, Sophia has done wonders with it,” Caroline commented, walking out the large French window.

Alexander was silent. Every mention of his ex-wife stung him. He hated that feeling in his stomach, knowing it was his fault that they didn’t get along. The two sat at a table in the garden lit by the sun’s rays. Charles brought them cups of coffee and biscuits.

He left without troubling them further, and as soon as Alexander’s mother was sure they were left alone, she decided to go directly to the topic.

“I want you to know that I am extremely disappointed by the news of your divorce,” she said, her tone heavy with concern.

“Mother, I understand, but…” Alexander began, trying to explain.

“Do not interrupt me,” she admonished him firmly. Alexander nodded in agreement, allowing his mother to continue without interruption.

“I know that relationships and marriage are complicated, and you know very well that I have a history too. After all, Michael wouldn’t be your half -brother if everything had gone as planned.”

“What does this mean?” Alexander inquired, curious about where the conversation was leading.

“It means that people fall in love with other people, and sometimes mistakes happen,” Caroline responded cryptically.

Alexander sought clarification, “That’s not the case here. Neither Sophia nor I are in love with someone else.”

“Then why did all this happen?” his mother pressed. “The fault is entirely mine. The truth is, I didn’t even know Sophia Johnson was my wife,” Alexander admitted with a heavy sigh.

Caroline furrowed her brows as she took a sip of her coffee. “She didn’t tell you?” she asked, clearly surprised.

“There was no way she would tell me when I hadn’t met her once in these three years,” Alexander replied, his tone tinged with regret. Caroline’s eyes widened in disbelief.” How could you not be curious?” she exclaimed.

“I was consumed by my work at the time and didn’t care, except that it was an arranged marriage. I saw no need to waste my time,” Alexander explained.

His mother raised her voice indignantly, “Wasting your time? Alexander Stone, how are you not ashamed?”

“Mother, I am deeply sorry for everything,” Alexander said, acknowledging his mistakes. “At the same time, I had my own discontent with this arrangement. So when I was forced to marry Sophia, I believe I was intentionally disregarding her and this marriage.”

“Of course you’re sorry. Sophia was arranged for you for a reason. Your grandfather carefully arranged this marriage. We thought highly of Sophia’s family, and there was a history between us. And now, you’re throwing it all away?” his mother scolded him.

“I didn’t know it was important. I was foolish,” Alexander admitted again. ” But at the same time, I was also unaware of any necessity for our family to conceal Sophia’s identity from the outside world, and I myself was in the dark about it.”

“Sophia is the most remarkable woman I have ever met. She’s intelligent, kind, and was willing to put her career on hold to start a family with you and support you. Don’t let your foolishness ruin it all,” Caroline chastised him.

“As for the confidentiality of the information, it was all orchestrated by your grandfather. I have only heard whispers and don’t know the exact reasons behind it,” she added.

Alexander’s curiosity was ignited by his mother’s words, but he sensed a hesitant tone in her voice. He decided not to delve into the truth behind it for now.

“I’ve met Sophia, spoken to her, and I agree with you. She’s incredible in every way. The problem is, we met too late, and she now despises me. And I…” Alexander paused, his voice cracking with emotion.

“You what?” Caroline prodded gently.

“I’ve fallen in love with her, but now everything has fallen apart because I took her for granted when I had her,” Alexander confessed, his vulnerability laid bare.

Caroline’s expression softened as she heard her son’s confession. “Oh, Alex, my dear boy. I never interfered in your relationships or your work. I stepped back to allow you to make your own choices. When I learned of your divorce, I returned home immediately.”

“Why?” Alexander inquired, curious about her sudden involvement. “Because I believe it’s a colossal mistake, and I know that you and Sophia should be together. I came to help you win her back,” Caroline declared with conviction.

“I’m afraid it’s too late,” Alexander said, his voice filled with resignation. ” She really wants nothing to do with me.

“Because she doesn’t trust you, Alexander,” his mother countered gently. “Imagine that someone ignores you for years and then suddenly decides they want you. Would you believe them? Or would you think they might turn away again at the first sign of trouble?”

“I understand that, but we’re constantly arguing. Every time we talk, it turns into a fight,” Alexander explained.

Caroline smiled knowingly. “If you’re arguing, that’s a good sign. If she didn’t care about you, she wouldn’t bother arguing. Where there are sparks, there’s fire. Nothing is lost until the end.”

“Do you really think so? It sounds a bit naive to me,” Alexander laughed.

“Let me ask you this,” Caroline began. ‘ If a random person on the street started arguing with you, would you pay attention to them or ignore them?”

“I’d probably ignore them,” Alexander replied, starting to grasp his mother’s point.

“Exactly,” she affirmed. “Now, I want you to go and show her that you care about her, that you’ve changed, and that you won’t repeat your mistakes.”

“I’ll try,” Alexander replied with a newfound determination.

“My birthday is coming up. Why don’t you invite her to my birthday party here at the villa?” Caroline suggested.

“I don’t know if she’ll want to…” Alexander started to say.

“Please, Alexander,” Caroline interrupted with a warm smile. “I don’t need another gift. I want Sophia here with you for my birthday.”

Alexander sighed realizing that this was a difficult task.

“I will do everything in my power to bring her home again. mother.”

After the Divorce: Crushed on My Lawyer Ex-wife Chapter 49

#49 “Don’t You Dare Try to Shift the Blame onto Me.”

As Sophia and Evelyn entered the police station, they were focused on the necessary procedures to ensure Evelyn’s safety and well-being. It was a tense atmosphere, and both of them were preoccupied with the task at hand.

As they talked to the police officers, Sophia spotted Alexander exiting the building, and her heart sank. She had hoped to avoid any encounter with him, but fate seemed to have other plans.

Alexander, too, saw Sophia and a wave of emotions washed over him. He had been hoping to catch a glimpse of her, but now that it had happened, he wasn’t sure how to react.

They passed each other like strangers in the hallway, their eyes briefly meeting before they both looked away, as if trying to erase the past and the emotions that still lingered.

Sophia, ever the pragmatist, accepted their estranged state with a heavy heart. She had moved on with her life and had no intention of revisiting the pain Alexander had caused her.

But for Alexander, seeing Sophia again was a painful reminder of what he had lost. He couldn’t help but feel deeply hurt by her indifference. As he walked away with Emily, he couldn’t shake the feeling that their chance encounter had only widened the chasm that separated them.

As Alexander walked away with Emily, he couldn’t help but notice the way Sophia’s eyes were fixed on Emily.

As Sophia watched Alexander’s unwavering support for Emily, her resolve grew stronger. She couldn’t fathom how he could stand by someone who had caused so much pain and turmoil in their lives. To her, it was a matter of principle and justice.

The fact that Alexander seemed willing to let Emily escape prison didn’t sit right with Sophia. She believed that justice should be served, regardless of personal history or connections.

This growing divide between their values and priorities only deepened her sense of disappointment and frustration with Alexander.

When they were alone outside Alexander gestured towards the car with a stern expression, his voice commanding. “Emily, get in the car.”

She complied but seemed surprised when Alexander didn’t get in the car with her. Emily rolled down the window, she expected some form of sympathy or comfort from Alexander. However, his words were anything but warm. He leaned in closer to emphasize his point.

“Emily, you need to leave the city. Go far away and never appear in front of Sophia or me again. It’s the only way to avoid the trouble that’s coming your way.”

Emily looked reluctant, her eyes filled with uncertainty. “But what about us, Alexander? What about our history?”

Alexander’s gaze remained icy, and he replied with a tone devoid of emotion, There is no us. And your fantasy about it doesn’t change the fact that you’ve done some terrible things, Emily. I can protect you, but I can’t help you escape Sophia’s wrath if you are still here.”

After a moment of hesitation, Emily finally nodded, tears welling up in her eyes. “Fine, I’ll go. But remember, Alexander, you’re the reason I did all of this in the first place.”

Alexander’s patience was wearing thin. “Don’t you dare try to shift the blame onto me.”

Tears streamed down her face as she confessed, “I know I’ve messed up everything, but I need you to know that… I love you, Alexander. I always have, even when I did those terrible things. I thought I could make you notice me, but I see now that I was wrong. I’m so sorry for everything.”

“It doesn’t change anything. Goodbye Emily.” Emily realized that Alexander would not forgive her. She raised her window and signaled the driver to go.

Alexander’s expression remained cold and unforgiving as he stepped back from the car, watching Emily disappear into the distance. He had no sympathy left for her, knowing that her actions had caused so much trouble.

As Evelyn sat inside the police station, providing her testimony to the officers, Sophia stepped aside, her mind racing with thoughts of how to deal with Emily’s family. She had an idea. Sophia dialed Benjamin’s number, her fingers tapping quickly on her phone.

“Hello, Sophie,” Benjamin greeted her warmly.

“Hello, I’m looking for you on a work matter.”

“Sure, I’m listening.”

“Benjamin, we need to discuss Emily’s family assets,” Sophia said, her voice low but determined.

Benjamin’s tone shifted to a more serious and businesslike demeanor. ” I’ve been thinking about that too, Sophie. The recent developments with Emily’s family have opened up some opportunities, but also challenges. We’re not the only ones interested.”

Sophia’s brows furrowed. “What do you mean?”

Benjamin continued, “The troubles at Williams Bank have put them on shaky ground. There’s talk of bankruptcy, and if that happens, their assets could be up for liquidation and auction.”

Sophia understood the implications immediately. “So, there’s competition for these assets?”

“Exactly. My company is already working on a plan to acquire a portion of those assets. But there are many others eyeing the same opportunity. It’s going to be a fierce competition.”

Sophia nodded, even though Benjamin couldn’t see her. “I appreciate your honesty, Benjamin. Let’s coordinate our efforts. I’ll do everything I can to help you secure those assets.”

Benjamin’s voice held a hint of gratitude. “Thank you, Sophia. I wanted to ask you how she is?”

“Better, now she’s testifying,” Sophia replied.

“I understand your desire for revenge and justice, but I want to remind you that Evelyn has been through something terrible and needs a friend, not just a lawyer.”

“You’re right,” Sophia admitted. “I’ll be there for her, but in the meantime, we’ll work together to pursue justice and protect our interests.”

“I appreciate it. Take care of yourself.”

“You too.”

With that, Sophia hung up the phone, her grip on the device tightening as a fierce determination settled over her. Her eyes burned with a relentless fire, and her heart raced with unwavering resolve.

Sophia wasn’t going to stop until she saw Emily’s family get what they deserved. She would bring hell to earth if she had to.

After the Divorce: Crushed on My Lawyer Ex-wife Chapter 50

#50 “Don’t Run Away From Me.”

Evelyn’s testimony had left her visibly shaken, her normally radiant demeanor overshadowed by the trauma she had endured. Sophia decided to offer a small escape from the darkness of the day.

“Do you want to go home and watch some really dumb movie?” Sophia suggested, hoping to bring a glimmer of cheer to Evelyn’s eyes. Evelyn managed a faint smile through her tears. “Always,” she replied. “But don’t you have work, Sophie?”

Sophia shook her head, her determination unwavering. “There has been work before, and there will be work long after I retire. Right now, I want to spend some time with my best friend.”

Evelyn hugged Sophia tightly. “Thank you, sweetie. “It’s going to be nice, we’re going to make face masks, we’re going to laugh at the movie, we’re going to make buttered and salted popcorn,” Sophia emphasized, eager to steer the conversation toward happier topics.

“Sounds lovely, like we’re teenagers again,” Evelyn laughed genuinely for the first time in a long time.

“That’s right, we’ll have fun like before and it’ll be good to get away from work, schemes, corporate assholes, and… men for a while,” Sophia muttered, a hint of frustration tainting her voice.

Evelyn didn’t miss a beat and decided to ask Sophia a question that had been on her mind for a while. “Have you talked to your ex?” she asked.

Sophia sighed, her shoulders drooping. “More times than I’d like,” she muttered. Evelyn was about to ask her something else related to the matter, but Sophia interrupted gently but firmly. “Can this day be about us and not mentioning exes?”

“Of course,” Evelyn smiled warmly. As they exited the police station, Sophia’s eyes fell upon Alexander standing outside. She frowned and instinctively considered avoiding him. She wondered why he was still lingering there. Was he waiting for her?

A sense of annoyance washed over her, and she contemplated ignoring him altogether. However, before she could carry out her plan, Alexander’s voice broke the silence.

“Sophia, please, let’s talk,” he implored, hurrying to catch up with her. Evelyn, sensing the gravity of the situation, gave her a reassuring nod.

“I’ll wait for you in the car,” Evelyn told Sophia before walking away. Turning her furious gaze toward Alexander, Sophia braced herself for the impending conversation.

“Do it quickly,” she muttered to him, her gaze unwavering and stern. Alexander took a deep breath before speaking, “Sophia, I need to tell you something. Emily is leaving, and she won’t be coming back. She won’t cause any more trouble.”

“You think that solves everything?” Sophia’s voice quivered with pent-up rage. “Just making her disappear? What about the crimes she committed?”

Alexander attempted to explain, ” Sophia, I…”

But before he could finish, Sophia’s anger boiled over. Unable to take it anymore she gave Alexander a loud, stinging slap across his face. Alexander, though not surprised by her reaction, winced at the sharp pain in his cheek.

“I deserved it,” he mutters. Sophia’s anger is palpable as she retorts, “And how else could you expect me to react?”

Alexander sighs heavily, running a hand through his hair. “Look, Sophia, I understand that what I’m doing may not seem right to you, but I have a duty to fulfill. I’ve explained to you several times that Emily’s family has already lost the ill-gotten gains they acquired, and they’ve faced other legal consequences for their actions.”

Sophia’s eyes narrow, her gaze unwavering. “What about Evelyn? She’s in the car, trembling like a kitten. They’ve ruined her life, Alexander, and I won’t let them get away with it. Don’t assume for a moment that I’ll simply walk away from this.”

Alexander attempts to reason, “I want to remind you that you have a scandal of your own still brewing, Sophia.”

“And what about it?”

“They are not the only ones involved, Sophia. Yes, Emily initiated all of this, but there are other players behind the scenes, pulling the strings.”

Sophia’s curiosity is piqued as she asks, “Who else is involved?”

“Enlighten Press,” Alexander reveals,” They’re orchestrating a significant portion of this chaos. It’s a tangled web, Sophia, and they stand to benefit from this entire situation as well.”

Sophia is taken aback, “What is their motive in all of this?”

Alexander elaborates, “The journalist who was aiding Emily was working for Enlighten Press all along. And though that journalist has been apprehended, the higher-ups in the company have not been implicated. Instead, they used the false scandal of your alleged involvement in bribery to manipulate the situation, resulting in a significant increase in their stock price. Someone is pulling the strings behind this. I have evidence to support this.”

Sophia furrowed her brow, “I appreciate your information, but I can handle this on my own.”

Alexander persists, “Sophia, please, it’s not about excusing Emily’s behavior. She was foolish, and it’s her responsibility. However, she was misled, and I genuinely want to assist you in navigating through this mess.”

Sophia’s eyes narrow as she maintains her resolve. “No, I’ll manage on my own without you. And don’t think that as long as you help Emily and her family, I won’t hold you accountable in court.”

Alexander laughs at her threat, “I haven’t done anything illegal, and you know it. Let me help you.”

Sophia cuts him off firmly, “My answer remains no.”

“Sophia, don’t…”

But Sophia cuts him off firmly, her decision final, “I think we should part ways, Alexander. I don’t want anything to do with you, and I don’t want you to help me. It would be best for both of us to never speak with each other again.”

As Sophia declared her decision, she couldn’t help but observe a notable shift in Alexander’s demeanor. She had anticipated anger and resistance, given their history of arguments, but instead, she saw a pleading look in his eyes.

Before Sophia could react further, Alexander reached out and gently took hold of her arm.

“Sophia, we need to have a serious talk about our divorce. Don’t run away from me, give me a chance to explain everything to you. I want a chance to understand your perspective, and I want you to know mine. We don’t have to end every conversation in arguments like we’ve been doing.” Alexander spoke gently.

Sophia jerked her hand away from his. She was not startled by the realization that Alexander had finally made the connection. What surprised her was the tenderness in his expression at that moment. He regarded her with a look of genuine remorse. Somewhat, it left her taken aback.