Good girl

My dad became a father at 16 with my mom, who was his high school sweetheart. Her parents were upset about the pregnancy initially, but my dad's parents offered to take care of me once I was born.

When I was born, my mother tearfully gave me to my father and his parents, and that was the only time she ever laid eyes on me.

During my childhood, I mistakenly believed that my father was my elder sibling, as I consistently addressed him as Adrian.

At the age of 20, he enrolled in college, and I would constantly inquire my grandfather, whom I believed was my father, about when Adrian would return because I was excited to see him.

At the conclusion of every semester, he returns home with numerous gifts specifically for me.

When he finished college, I was 6 years old, and he, at 23, got his own apartment and moved out but still visited me frequently.

One day he paid me a visit, I was filled with joy, he tenderly kissed my cheeks, how much I had longed for his presence, "Alicia, I have news to share with you," he said sadly.

I anticipated his words and was surprised when he revealed, "We've hidden this from you for too long, my baby... I am not your sibling." I was left wondering what he meant. Is it possible that I am not biologically related to my parents? "I'm your dad."

It seemed surreal, never in a million years did I imagine Adrian was my father, and the individuals I believed were my parents were in fact my grandparents.

I was only 8 years old at the time, realizing that everything I believed was false, but I had to come to terms with my truth.

After two years passed, my father had exciting news - I would be moving in with him. I was thrilled because he lives in Los Angeles while we currently reside in North Carolina. He had spoken highly of L.A, so I was ecstatic to finally be living with him there.

That's how we began cohabiting, I found it uncomfortable to refer to him as dad, so I continued using his name, and he didn't seem to have a problem with it.

One day, Adrian arrived home and informed me of his intentions to propose to his longtime fiancée, and I was overjoyed for them both, hoping for the best outcome, as my love for him is immense.

My stepmom and dad have been married for 3 years, I am almost 15, already in high school, and my dad warns me not to start dating yet because I am too young.

I was not interested in dating because I didn't find any of the boys in my class attractive, even though many of them asked me out, I turned them down.

After school on a Wednesday, I arrived home to find Adrian with a guest. When I walked into the living room, I locked eyes with someone with the most stunning hazel eyes I've ever seen.

My heart jumped a little, and I turned my eyes away immediately. Adrian saw me, smiled, and exclaimed "oh!" as he gestured towards the man across from us, proudly introducing me as his daughter, Alicia. I became annoyed by this sudden declaration, but the man reciprocated with a husky voice, saying "Alicia," which I found appealing.

I managed to smile and turn towards him, introducing myself, "I'm Alicia, pleased to meet you." He returned the smile, nodding slightly, "I'm Lyon, nice to meet you too, Alicia."

I opened and shut my bedroom door with a bang, what happened? I placed my bag on my bed, he was the most handsome man I had ever encountered, he was so appealing, is this what they refer to as a crush?.

I sat on my bed, touching my face gently with my hands. I could feel myself blushing as I admired his model-like appearance, both handsome and pretty.

I know I shouldn't be attracted to Adrian's friend, but I can't help but have strong feelings for him. I chuckled, amazed by his hazel eyes and sexy lips when he called my name. His smile was captivating, and there's something about his aura that makes me feel desire, or maybe it's just me?

I lay in bed, pondering the charming man I had recently met, Lyon, whose very name exudes strength and grace, as he remains downstairs with my father.

Is it worth going to take a quick look? I nodded in disapproval, trying to banish the inappropriate thoughts. I couldn't fantasize about someone unattainable, he might be married just like Adrian, which saddened me and brought tears to my eyes.

When he goes, I might consider asking Adrian, but is it even appropriate for me to do so? What is the best way for me to approach him? Hey, is Adrian's friend married? I pictured how Adrian would react if I asked him - no, it's not a good idea.

Later that day, I went downstairs and saw Margaret, Adrian's wife, sitting on the sofa. She is currently six months pregnant, which means I will soon have a true sibling. I am excited for her to give birth.

Upon spotting me, she smiled and I reciprocated before eagerly approaching her and pressing my ears against her stomach. She chuckled, "I didn't notice you when you returned from school." I apologized, how do I tell her I was mesmerized by Adriana friend? "um I wasn't feeling too good when I got back from school and you weren't here", to which she explained she had been shopping with her mother for my brother's item. Excitedly, she mentioned looking forward to seeing him, and I replied likewise.

She inquired about the friend Adrian had over. My face flushed red, she brought Lyon to mind, she acknowledged the shift in my expression and laughed.

"no wonder you were no where to be found when I got home, I know Alicia, he is very attractive isn't he?" she said winking at me, I felt embarrassed now that she has known about my crush. I realized I should check with Margaret about his marital status. "he is, but don't spill the beans to Adrian about my feelings for his friend; it would devastate him," she chuckled. "I promise to keep your secret safe. It's surprising to see you all grown up and crushing on an older man."

Yes, I do, and it's a concern "yeah, but it's only infatuation though.....is he married?" I questioned, Margaret seems thrilled for an undisclosed reason and then shifted to a sympathetic expression when she mentioned "but he is already engaged." My hopes came crashing down. I reluctantly nodded and said "thanks for sharing." My voice betrayed my hurt and she picked up on it. "Come here, let me give you a hug. It happens to everyone, but don't let it bring you down. There will be plenty of other attractive men for you to meet." I hugged her back, trying to contain my tears, wishing he wasn't already engaged.

Lyon

I recently asked for the hand in marriage of Mia, my amazing long-term girlfriend, who I consider to be the best woman in the world. It's like a dream come true, and I am feeling extremely thrilled. Mia and I have been together since high school, and because we both come from affluent families, it was easy for our families to unite. Choosing Mia was the best decision I have ever made.

I have asked all of my family and friends to attend our reunion, and I am eager to marry her, confident that she will be a great mother to our children.

I come from one of the wealthiest families in Los Angeles, we own a winery, which means we have generational wealth, so I have always lived a privileged life.

At 18 years old, I had a dream to start my own company. I achieved that goal and it is now a successful multimillion dollar business, but my ultimate aim is to grow it into a multi-billion dollar company.

A short while ago, my mom phoned to say she and Mia went shopping for Mia's dress. My suit measurements were already taken and it should be ready next week.

I had informed Adrian and he had asked me to come over for some drinks at his place.

I was surprised to see his teenage daughter since he is older than me by 2 years, it's hard to believe he has a grown-up daughter.

My phone rang, it was my best friend Luke who will also be my best man. Luke and I have been friends for a long time, he's like a brother and we shared many experiences growing up.

"Hello, how are you?" Seated in my office chair, I leaned back and gazed at the ceiling, "I'm exhausted from a busy day, how are you getting ready for my wedding?" "I hope you're well-dressed," I teased, he chuckled, then spoke earnestly "I'm really happy for you, and I'll make sure to dress to impress, maybe even steal the spotlight from you," I grinned "keep dreaming".

Two days later, I found myself in my penthouse at the study room while Mia showered. With some tasks to attend to, a spontaneous urge to surprise her in the bathroom arose, arousing me, I decided to postpone the rest of my work for the next day.

The door to our room was slightly ajar and Mia's voice could be heard. I realized I was too late as she had already finished showering. As I was about to enter, I overheard her saying "Alright, tomorrow it is. But that's the final time, Luke. After that, we're finished. And I've told you not to call me when I'm at Lyon's place. What if he discovers?" Discovers? What is her intention? Why was she having a conversation with Luke this late? What are they finished with? Perhaps I am analyzing too much, "yes, I understand, I will miss you as well, love you, goodbye", I was paralyzed, unable to move, what did I just hear? I returned to the study feeling sweaty and anxious.

It's impossible, my closest friend and my future spouse, I must be mistaken, but did she really confess her love to him? Oh please, I started panicking, I couldn't catch my breath, I hope it's not true, please no, I must have misunderstood, please no.

The next day was extremely difficult, I couldn't even look at Mia. I felt like I was going to die, but I had to verify if what I heard was accurate.

I was uncertain about what to do, so I reached out to my mom, the only person I trust completely.

She was just as surprised as I was, unable to fathom my words: "Let's meet at the office, are you there?" Choking on my tears, I said with my head in my hands, "Yes mom, I am absolutely devastated". "I will be on my way soon, but we haven't confirmed it yet, okay?" She ended the call.

On the day of suit delivery, I phoned Luke to join me in trying on the suit. He greeted me as usual, and I went through with it. Once dressed, I inquired, "How does it look? Does it appear flattering on me?" After examining me, he confidently stated, "I'm sure Mia will be really impressed." I grimaced and glared directly at him, questioning, "Would Mia still be impressed if you were the one wearing this suit?" His puzzled expression gave away his confusion as he questioned, "Why are you asking?" I am aware of Luke's panic, even though he is not displaying it, "I know Luke, you're having sex with Mia, right? How long?" I asked, taking two steps back with trembling eyes, he replied, "I'm sorry, buddy," my hands already clenched into fists, looking at my best friend.

With pain showing on my face, I smiled and said, "I had faith in you and Mia, how could you betray me like this?" I have been foolish, I should have noticed the signals, but I was too consumed by love and friendship "just tell me how long". I let out a half scream before he finally uttered "four years ago, you... you went on a work trip. She came over and asked for a drink... um... we... uh... we ended up, I'm so sorry," four years ago? Has Mia been engaging in sexual activities with my closest friend? "And you proceeded following that, didn't you? Throughout this time, I had placed my trust in you, only to be left shattered. I expressed gratitude for being informed and thanked my lucky stars for overhearing Mia's conversations, as it prevented me from making a grave mistake". With that revelation, I walked away.

I didn't return to the penthouse or visit my family's house. Instead, I went to one of my owned homes and drank until I was very drunk. My phone kept ringing constantly, most calls were from Mia who heartlessly broke my heart.

After being upset for three days, I returned home and my mom comforted me, saying "she isn't worth this, Lyon." I couldn't speak, feeling like a shell of my old self. I couldn't even cry, but my mom hugged me and her scent brought me some comfort.

Mia arrived, pleading for forgiveness. I gazed silently at the woman I cherished more than anything. "I'm truly sorry Lyon, I don't know what came over us. Please forgive me," she begged. Does she see me as foolish? I was tired of her apologies, I glanced at Greg the butler and instructed him to escort Miss Cullen out and forbid her from returning. "Lyon, please," she pleaded. My heart is already locked, the remnants of it damaged beyond repair. I am a shattered man and I am aware of it.

Alicia.

I am filled with joy as I have finally completed my studies at the university. Could I possibly be any happier? It was tough, but I finished as one of the best in my department, before moving out of Adrian's house. I had worked part-time as a waitress with good pay. Now, I need to find a job related to my degree. Adrian said he knows some influential people who can help me secure a good paying job, as he is friends with them, how he knows such people still baffles me, but it made me happy, because it will be easier to get a good paying job. I plan to visit him this weekend.

Upon reaching his house, his children Junior and Adrianna eagerly ran into my arms. I realized how much I had missed them as they asked, "What did you buy for us?" "What have you buy for us?" Jumping excitedly, I saw their mother quickly descending the stairs, she embraced me tightly, oh how I missed this hug "I was so thrilled when he mentioned you'd be here today" I chuckled, she looks just as lovely as the last time I saw her, maybe even more so.

"I am also thrilled, Margaret, I can tell you're glowing" she chuckled "oh come on, you're making me blush", you know what? I have a deep affection for my family.

"Mom, stop bothering her, what did you buy for us?" oh I nearly forgot about these two "wait, wait, do you think what I bought for you is more significant than me?" I said in a pained tone, "we already said hello to you, so....what did you bring us, hmm", these children, hahaha, they are hilarious.

I handed over the candies I bought them, and they were thrilled. If I had arrived empty-handed, they would have been furious and would have been disappointed.

Margaret informs me that my father is in the bathroom and will come down once he is finished. I smiled and nodded my head, grateful for both Adrian's and Margaret's roles as loving parents. I feel incredibly fortunate to have them in my life.

Shortly after, he entered the living room and exclaimed, "Well, well, well, look who's here!" playfully. I walked over to him, embraced him, and he returned the gesture. "I've missed you," he grinned. "Missed you too, Alicia. How have you been?" I turned my head to the side "as you can see, I'm doing well", and we all burst into laughter.

"Alright, I'm considering three companies: skyline, aquarium corp, and Lyon Enterprise. Which one catches your attention?" He tells me, while observing me, skyline is a great organization, Adrian has a buddy who holds a high position there, aquarium corp is similar as a friend of his is an executive, except Lyon's Enterprise, he is friends with the CEO Lyon Bernard, whom I also happen to know, the man who stole my heart when I was a teenager.

Surprisingly, after a decade, he ended his engagement with his girlfriend due to her infidelity, as told by my father. It's unbelievable that someone would cheat on him. Possibly his former partner.

Every magazine and tabloid is focused on Lyon Bernard, the wealthy playboy who switches women like he does his cars. Despite being a successful businessman. I doubt I could handle being near him due to his charm, even in his late thirties nearing forty, he remains attractive.

I used to daydream about him frequently, and still do. I kept track of all his social media updates, feeling jealous whenever I see him with a new partner, wishing I could be in her place.

Perhaps selecting his company could be beneficial, as I may not even encounter him, making it the most favorable choice due to the potential for a good salary.

I coughed before speaking, "Lyon's Enterprise, sounds perfect." Margaret's gaze made me grin, so I returned the look to see her sporting a mischievous smile. "What's with the smiles? Lyon's enterprise is impressive, thankfully I have a personal connection with Lyon" he says touching his chin, "Yes, but I'm curious about how he became your friend." Adrian chuckled and shared, "When I first moved to L.A, I didn't know who he was, I was at a bar, unsure about what to order, he offered a solution. Grateful, we chatted and he turned out to be a friendly and easy going guy. He became my first friend in L.A, later I learned of his influence, and I owe some of my success to him."

I didn't expect Lyon to be such a kind person, my father always described him as easy-going. He doesn't appear that way in the media, but he was like that when I first met him a decade ago.

Lyon's Enterprise it is, "You have your resume, right?" I gave my resume to Adrian, who examined it closely. "Great, I've already contacted him and he mentioned an upcoming interview. It's for the accounting department, you're fortunate, Alicia," he returned my resume to me. "When is the interview?" I inquired "on Monday" ugh it's too soon. I just hope I don't run into him that day, am not emotionally prepared to see him. It's making me feel feverish just thinking about it.

After the conversation with Adrian, Margaret came besides me "so it's Lyon's huh? Have you forgotten you had a huge crush on him?"

How could I forget? I wanted to say, but instead I said "no, I haven't forgotten about my crush on him, but I do think his company is the best option, though" Margaret nodded her head in agreement, "you were blushing quite hard, your dad almost caught us there" we started giggling.

"Alicia, junior has taken one of my candy" those children, they've begun causing trouble again "don't stress, I'll handle them you head to the kitchen, I made your favorite meal" Margaret mentioned as she went to deal with her children, I headed to the kitchen to serve myself some food.

I had never dated anyone because I wasn't interested. My long time crush was the only man in my heart. Maybe I'll start dating once I have a job, I am no longer a kid.

I feel like I followed my father's advice too closely, at 25, being a virgin while my friends partied; I prioritized studying over having fun.

Perhaps I will relax a bit, which would be beneficial. While eating some delicious food, I was reflecting on my life. Margaret is not only a skilled cook but also a good wife and a mother, and I feel fortunate to have them as my family.