SORRY EX HUSBAND, I AM NEVER COMING BACK

NATALIA'S POV

The mall buzzed with life as I pushed my cart through the aisles, grabbing bottles of champagne, chips, and enough party favors to fill a banquet hall. It was my 24th birthday, and I could feel the excitement bubbling inside me. Tonight was going to be perfect!

Robert had promised to make today a special day for me and the mere imagination of the surprise he had in store for me, made me blush. We had been married for six months now and he was still the same charming and sweet Robert I fell in love with.

I paused in the middle of the aisle, and stared up at the rows of colorful balloons. Then, I picked a pack of gold balloons and tossed it into the cart.

"This is going to be the best night ever," I whispered to myself, a smile stretching across my face.

At checkout, the cashier gave me a knowing look. "Big party tonight?"

"Yeah," I said, beaming with smiles. "It's my birthday."

"Well, happy birthday to you!" She said and winked. "I hope you enjoy yourself."

I laughed lightly, thanked her, and hurried outside to hail a cab. The cool evening breeze swept through my hair as I loaded my bags into the backseat and the city lights twinkled like a promise of something wonderful waiting just around the corner.

The cab ride home felt longer than usual. I drummed my fingers on my knee, counting down the minutes until I'd be in Robert's arms. He'd probably set up candles, maybe even cooked dinner. My mind raced with possibilities and every single one of them made me blush in anticipation.

When the cab finally pulled up in front of our house, I grabbed the bags and stepped out at once. The porch light was on, casting a warm glow over the front steps and I frowned slightly when I saw that the door was slightly ajar.

Pushing the door open with my foot, I stepped inside and set the bags down in the hallway.

"Robert?" I called out, my voice echoing through the house.

A deafening silence greeted me and I sighed. He was probably working in his study upstairs. I couldn't bring myself to admit it but the truth was that I was disappointed.

There was no love note waiting for me. No candles. No flowers. Nothing.

I started to the kitchen to get something to eat, but I stopped in my tracks when I noticed something on the floor-a lady's shoe.

My stomach twisted. I took a shaky step forward, my eyes scanning the trail of clothing leading up the stairs. A scarf. A blouse. Lacy red underwear.

No. It couldn't be.

My breath hitched, and my chest tightened as dread settled over me like a heavy blanket. I didn't want to go upstairs, but my legs moved on their own.

When I reached the bedroom door, it was slightly open. My heart pounded in my chest as I heard his familiar voice from within, and then a lady's giggle.

I pushed it open fully and just as I suspected, he was there, naked in our bed, his body entwined with another woman's. Her fiery red hair spilled over the pillows, and her laughter froze in the air as she noticed me.

For a moment, the world stopped. I couldn't breathe. I couldn't think.

Robert turned his head lazily, as if my presence in the room was some sort of inconvenience. A smug smile tugged at his lips as he assessed me.

"Oh, you're home finally," He said.

I blinked, my vision blurring with tears I refused to let fall. "What is this?"

He sighed, swinging his legs off the bed and pulling on his trousers with infuriating nonchalance. The woman giggled again, and I clenched my fists to stop myself from doing something reckless.

Robert sauntered over to me, his expression almost bored.

"Natalia, let's not make a scene."

"A scene?" My voice cracked. "You're in our bed with another woman!"

His eyes narrowed at me and he sighed.

"The truth is you've been a good wife to me, Natalia," he started.

"And you dare cheat on me?" I cut in, my eyes teary. "Worse still on my birthday."

"I can't keep up with you," He blurted out. "I'm the CEO of a respected company and you're a volunteer at a non profit organization, Natalia."

I couldn't believe my ears.

"What exactly are you saying?" I stared at him.

"I'm saying you're out of my league now," He stated. "I need someone who matches my ambitions."

"Your ambitions?" I chuckled bitterly. "I helped you start up your company, Robert."

He gestured toward the redhead, who was now lounging in bed like she owned it.

"This is Ciara. She's the CEO of Diamond. She's everything I need-successful, beautiful, powerful."

For a moment, I was too stunned to speak. Then, a cold laugh escaped my lips. "Diamond?"

He smirked. "Yeah. The biggest jewelry company in Los Angeles. I bet you've heard of it."

I shook my head, disappointment flooding me. If only he knew the truth. Diamond was the smallest of my father's chain of companies. The truth was that I'd been born into wealth as the only daughter of billionaire businessman, Vincent Carson, but I preferred to live a simple life.

Robert crossed his arms, and sighed.

"Look, Natalia. It's over. Just sign these."

He pulled a stack of papers from the nightstand and thrust them at me. I didn't need to take a second look to know that they were divorce papers.

"Sign them," he muttered, impatient. "You're keeping us waiting."

I swallowed hard as I stared down at the papers. I had given myself to this man in the last six months of my life, but this was what he wanted to repay me with.

My world was crumbling, but I refused to let him see me break. I grabbed a pen from the dresser, and scrawled my name across the bottom of each page.

"There," I slammed the paper on the desk in our room. "Happy now?"

Robert smirked. "You have no idea."

As I turned to leave, the sound of their laughter followed me down the stairs. I could still hear them chuckle and gossip about how stupid I was.

Of course I'd been stupid. I had used my influence as a billionaire heiress, pumping millions of dollars into Robert' tech company, TechXpert. And now that it had blossomed into something profitable, he revealed his game plan - he never even loved me. He had been using me all along.

My hands clenched into fists, but I kept walking. I was not going to give them the satisfaction of seeing me cry. They had no idea who I really was, but they would soon.

As I stepped out into the night, I felt a new sense of determination wash over me.

This was definitely not the end. I was going to make Robert and Ciara pay dearly for what they had done to me.

NATALIA'S POV

The drive back to the Carson estate was quiet, save for the occasional rumble of the cab's engine. I sat staring out through the window, as the city's lights blurred past me. I could still remember the last conversation I had with my father exactly six months ago.

"Don't do this, Natalia," He had said to me. "He's only using you. He doesn't even love you."

But I never listened to him. By then, I was head over heels in love with Robert and there was nothing my father could say to convince me otherwise.

Robert's betrayal replayed in my mind. I could still picture the smirk on his face when I caught him red-handed. I could still hear Ciara's faint giggle in the back of my mind. I clutched my bag tighter, as if it could keep me from falling apart entirely.

When the car pulled into the familiar stone driveway, I could already see the estate in the distance. The sprawling mansion, with its grand pillars and expansive gardens, stood as a reminder of a world I had tried to escape-one I thought I didn't need anymore.

The cab came to a stop, and I stepped out, my heels crunching against the gravel. My father's staff greeted me with concerned expressions, but I waved them off. I wasn't ready for their pity.

The heavy oak doors swung open as I pushed them, and there he was-my father, Vincent Carson. Tall, sharp-eyed, and intimidating as ever, he stood in the grand foyer with his eyes fixed on me and his arms crossed.

"Daughter," he started. "I was wondering how long it would take."

His words broke the fragile dam inside me. Tears spilled over as I stumbled forward. He met me halfway, pulling me into a firm embrace.

"Dad," I choked out, my voice trembling. "You were right all along. You were right about Robert."

He sighed deeply, his hand resting on my back. "I knew that boy wasn't good for you the moment I laid eyes on him. But you wouldn't listen, would you?"

"I thought I loved him," I whispered, the words tasting bitter on my tongue.

"Love," he scoffed, pulling back to look at me. "Love shouldn't blind you to reality, Natalia. Robert was always a leech, and now you see it."

I nodded, unable to argue.

"I'm sorry," I said, my voice barely above a whisper.

He softened, his stern expression giving way to concern. "You don't need to apologize to me, Natalia. You've suffered enough."

I sank into one of the velvet armchairs in the living room, exhaustion settling into my bones.

"What do I do now, Dad? How do I even start over?"

"Well," he said, settling into the chair opposite mine, "you could start by considering a better match."

I groaned, already dreading where this conversation was headed.

"If you're about to mention Diego Fernandez, save it."

He raised an eyebrow. "Diego is a respectable man. A billionaire, no less, and he's always admired you."

"Diego is forty-five," I retorted, crossing my arms. "I just got out of a disastrous relationship and last thing I need is another man in my life, especially one old enough to be my father."

My father chuckled, shaking his head. "You're too stubborn for your own good, Natalia. Just like your mother."

"And I'll take that as a compliment," I shot back.

He sighed, leaning back in his chair.

"Fine. No Diego, for now. But you'll need to lay low for a while. Relax like the daughter of a billionaire that you are."

I frowned and shook my head slightly. That was not the kind of life I had envisioned for myself - locked up in a mansion all day with all the servants in the world at my beck and call. I needed to actually do something. I needed to be productive.

"You know I don't like being idle," I muttered.

"Oh, but you won't be idle," Father chuckled. "There'll be lots of shopping, touring, anything fun you love to do."

"I'll prefer a challenge," I shrugged. "A job."

He stared at me for a few seconds and then he shook his head.

"No daughter of mine will answer to some saucy middle-aged brat."

"I won't need to," I said, a smile forming across my lips.

He studied me for a while. "What do you mean?"

"Diamond," I blurted out.

His expression turned wary. "What about it?"

"Are you still in charge, or have you sold it?" I asked.

"I'm still in charge," he replied, his eyes fixed on me. "What about it?"

I shrugged, avoiding his gaze. "Just curious. Who's in charge there?"

He narrowed his eyes.

"The company is in a bit of a situation, actually. The CEO, William Brent, had an accident a few months ago and has been hospitalized. The company needs new leadership, but finding the right person has been a bit challenging."

I had actually expected him to mention Ciara as the CEO. After what she had done to me, I would have zero reservations taking her job.

"So you haven't replaced him yet?"

"It's never an easy decision," He shrugged. "Although I've had some thoughts about promoting the deputy CEO to fill in for him."

"The deputy," I muttered. "Who's that?"

"Some redhead," He grunted. "Ciara Donovan."

My heart skipped a beat at the mention of the bitch's name. So it was true after all. She was about to rise to the top of the ranks. No way I was going to allow that.

"Let me do it," I said suddenly, the words spilling out before I could stop them.

He blinked, taken aback. "What?"

"I can take over as CEO," I said, sitting up straighter. "I've grown up watching you run companies, Dad. I know how this works."

He frowned, shaking his head. "Natalia, running a company like Diamond isn't just about knowing business. It requires experience, resilience, and-"

"And I have all of that," I interrupted. "Dad, I need this. I need something to focus on, something to prove to myself that I'm more than Robert's discarded wife."

He sighed, running a hand through his greying hair. "Natalia, this isn't about proving anything. This is about running a billion-dollar company."

"I know what I'm asking," I said earnestly. "Please, Dad. Give me a chance to prove myself. Let me fix this."

For a long moment, he stared at me, his expression unreadable. Finally, he exhaled sharply.

"Fine. But I'll be watching your progress closely. Any little slip up and you're fired."

I rolled my eyes. "As if you would fire your own daughter."

"Try me," He chuckled.

A smile broke across my face and I grabbed him in a bear hug.

"Thank you, Dad. You won't regret this."

"You'd better make sure I don't," he muttered.

That night, I locked myself in my room with my laptop, determined to prepare for my first day as the CEO of Diamond. I scoured through company reports, press releases, and employee profiles, soaking up every detail about Diamond.

And when I saw her name eventually, I was not surprised.

My breath hitched as her photograph loaded on the screen. It was her - the same woman I had caught in bed with Robert.

A bitter laugh escaped my lips as I leaned back in my chair.

I stared at her smiling face on my screen, my mind racing. Tomorrow, I would walk into Diamond as the new CEO and Ciara wouldn't see it coming.

"Let's see how you handle this," I muttered to myself.

For the first time in a long time, I felt a sense of control returning. This wasn't just about rebuilding my life-it was about reclaiming my power.

Tomorrow was going to mark the beginning of a new chapter, and I was ready to face it head-on.

NATALIA'S POV

The next morning, I stood in front of the mirror, adjusting the collar of my crisp white blouse. My black pencil skirt hugged my waist, and my heels added just enough height to make me feel in control. I needed every ounce of confidence for what lay ahead. Clutching my file-a polished resume and the official letter stamped with my father's seal, I took a deep breath.

Today was the day.

As I readied myself to step out of the house, I heard a familiar voice call out to me. It was the family chef, Mrs. Theresa. She walked up to me and crashed her weight upon me in a tight hug.

"I didn't hear you come in last night," She frowned.

"You taught me how to sneak out as a child, remember?" I chuckled.

We laughed as the memories of my childhood with a much younger Mrs. Theresa played in my mind. She had been much more than our chef. She was a part of the family as far as I was concerned.

"I heard about Robert," She muttered.

My face got clouded at the mention of his name and I sighed.

"I don't want to talk about him."

"I understand," She nodded. "I made mistakes when I was younger too. It's part of life."

"I guess so," I said with a shrug. "I'm a bit late for work now so - "

"Natalia," She cut in.

I stared at her, expectantly.

"You'll find love again. Don't let it slip past you because of one bad experience."

I chuckled inwardly but merely smiled at her. After my experience with Robert, I was definitely not going to trust any guy again.

"Thank you, Mrs. Theresa," I said and hugged her again, before making my way out.

The ride to the company was nerve-wracking. This wasn't just about reclaiming my life; it was about reclaiming my dignity. Robert and Ciara thought they had taken everything from me, but they had no idea what was coming.

When the cab pulled up to the towering glass building, I paid the driver and stepped out. The lobby of the building was simply breathtaking. The ceiling's gold details sparkled in the soft light, and marble walls provided an elegant backdrop for beautiful jewelry displays. A golden chandelier hanging from above filled the room with color, and fresh flowers made the air smell sweet. I was instantly captivated by the beauty on display and I wondered how such a magnificent company was my father's smallest.

I walked up to the reception desk, where a young woman with a headset was typing away on her keyboard.

"Good morning," I said, offering a polite smile.

The woman glanced up, her fingers still flying across the keys.

"Good morning. How can I help you?"

"I'd like to meet the acting CEO," I replied, sliding my file onto the desk.

The receptionist paused, her brows furrowing as she studied me.

"Do you have an appointment?"

"Not exactly," I admitted, "but I have something she might like to see - "

"Can't see Ciara without an appointment," She muttered. "Sorry."

She went back to her typing and I heaved a sigh. If she wasn't going to help me, then I was going to find my way.

I spun around and saw a younger lady walking briskly towards an elevator. She seemed to be in a hurry and I figured she was an employee.

"Hello," I flashed her a smile. "I'm kind of new around here and I need directions."

"And where are you headed?" She asked.

"The CEO's office," I replied. "I have some important documents that she needs to review."

She didn't seem convinced by my words but she shrugged and urged me to follow her. Together, we made our way to the elevator and once we were out, she pointed in the direction of the office.

"Try to knock before entering," She advised. "She seems to be very busy in there these days."

I could sense the sarcasm in her words and I realized what she meant. Of course, Robert had been cheating on me for a long time in that very office.

I walked up to the door and knocked twice. When there was no response, I turned the handle and pushed the door open.

My ex husband, Robert was perched on the edge of the massive oak desk, his shirt unbuttoned, while Ciara straddled him, her hands tangled in his hair. Their laughter filled the room, oblivious to my presence.

For a moment, I froze, my mind struggling to process the scene before me. Then, I cleared my throat noisily to announce my presence.

The sound startled them. Ciara gasped, scrambling off Robert and nearly toppling over in the process. Robert turned to face me, his expression switching from surprise to rage in an instant.

"You," he spat, his voice dripping with venom.

"Hello, Robert," I said coolly, though my insides churned. "I see you've been keeping busy."

"What the hell are you doing here?" he demanded, storming toward me.

I stood my ground, meeting his glare head-on. "I'm here on business."

He grabbed my arm roughly and I winced in pain.

"You're stalking me, aren't you? You can't handle the fact that it's over, so now you're following me around like some pathetic-"

"Let go of me," I snapped.

But he wasn't listening. Instead, he began dragging me towards the door. "I'm done with you, Natalia. We're divorced. Move on with your life and stop trying to ruin mine."

"Robert, stop it!" I protested, struggling against his grip.

"Let her be," Ciara laughed. "I'll call the security right away."

"I think it would be more fun if I get rid of her myself," Robert responded.

He turned his attention back to me and dragged me out of the office. I was still struggling to free myself from his grip, when the sharp baritone of a man's voice cut through the air.

"Let her go."

We both turned to see a tall, broad-shouldered man standing in the hallway. His ink black suit accentuated his strong build, and his piercing sea-green eyes rested on my face for a second.

Robert stiffened at the sight of the stranger and his grip on my arm loosened.

"Here to beg for scraps again, brother?" He chuckled.

Brother? But Robert had told me that he was the only child.

I stared at the stranger, my mind racing. He looked vaguely familiar, like we had met before but I couldn't quite put a finger on it.

The man stepped forward, his presence commanding. "I said, let her go."

Robert reluctantly let go of me, and turned his attention to the man.

"This has nothing to do with you," he snapped.

"It does if you're harassing a harmless lady in my presence," The man replied.

The tension between them was evident, and I couldn't help but notice the contrast between the two. Robert was fuming, his usual smugness replaced with irritation, while the man remained composed.

"She's all yours," Robert said finally. "Just get the fuck out of here, and remember to take her with you."

Wesley turned to me, his expression softening. "Are you alright?"

"Yes," I smiled. "Thank you for stepping in."

He nodded, his gaze lingering on me for a moment.

"I must apologize for my brother's behavior. He can be irrational at times."

"All the time actually," I muttered, earning a small chuckle from him.

"Hey. How about I help you find another job," he offered. "You shouldn't have to deal with this kind of treatment."

His kindness caught me off guard for a moment, but then I remembered why I was here.

"Actually," I said, straightening up. "I'm not here for a job interview."

Wesley raised an eyebrow. "You're not?"

"No," I smiled. "I've come to resume as the CEO of Diamond."