Chapter 26

Jenny POV:

As we sat around the table, I couldn't resist the tempting dishes my father had prepared. Everyone kept filling my plate, urging me to try a little of everything. "Jenny, taste this," Aunt Cathy said, offering me a bite of her famous fried chicken.

"Jenny, try that," my father added, handing me a spoonful of his signature jollof rice. I indulged in each dish, savoring the flavors and textures, but soon my stomach began to protest. "I'm getting full," I said, laughing, but they just kept coming.

Finally, we finished eating, and my father suggested we head to the beach to enjoy the rest of the day. Aunt Cathy packed a few snacks, "just in case," she said with a smile. As we walked along the shore, the warm sand squished between my toes, and the salty air filled my lungs. I breathed deeply, feeling carefree and happy.

Cindy clung to my hand, refusing to let me go. "I want to play with you, Aunty Jenny," she said, her eyes sparkling with excitement. I smiled, happy to oblige. We built sandcastles together, the cool sand molding to our touch.

I showed her how to make towers and moats, and she giggled with glee. As we worked, the sound of the waves and the cries of seagulls filled the air, creating a soothing melody. I felt my worries melting away with each passing moment.

As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the beach, I realized I was having the time of my life. Being with my family, enjoying good food and beautiful scenery, was exactly what I needed after my long journey. I squeezed Cindy's hand, grateful for this little bundle of joy who had brought so much happiness into my life.

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Alex POV:

I leaned back in my chair, steepling my fingers as Leo entered my office. "Boss, Miss Jenny has left the state. She went back to her hometown."

I raised an eyebrow, my expression calm and detached. "Then we should let her be. I told her to stay away from me, so it's normal if she departs to another place."

Leo nodded, his eyes cast downward. "Okay, boss. One more thing - stop following her every movement. It's better we keep our distance, so we won't bring danger to her."

I waved my hand dismissively. "Okay, boss. I'll leave now."

As Leo exited, I checked my phone, my eyes narrowing at the trending video. Fans were still clamoring for a response. I dialed a number, my voice firm and commanding. "Find the person who posted this video and bring them to me. Also, take down that video."

Lydian POV:

I slammed my fist on the table, shattering a vase. "Ahhhhhhh!"

The maid rushed to my side, concern etched on her face. "Ma, please calm down."

I glared at her, my heart racing with anger. "Calm down? You're telling me to calm down? Lovers or friends, it's not possible. I saw her in the party..."

Flashback:

I remembered seeing a woman enter Alex's Porsche, a pang of jealousy striking my chest. I pushed the thought aside, reasoning that she might be his cousin. Alex wouldn't let just anyone in his car...

Flashback ends:

I seethed, my mind racing with schemes. "I wish I did something, but I couldn't because Alex told me to stay away from him. That girl won't take my place. I will be the only woman meant for him, and no one else."

The maid, Mandy, tried to soothe me. "That's the spirit, ma. You have to show that girl who's in charge. Alex hasn't made a comment yet, so that means he doesn't concern himself with her. And looking at that lady, I don't think she'll comment because Alex hasn't, so she might be waiting for him to do so before claiming she's his lover or friend."

I nodded, a plan forming in my mind. "Hmm, thanks, Mandy. Call Posh, I want to talk to him."

As Mandy left, I smiled to myself. "I'm coming for you, 'girl'."

Jenny POV:

We sat on a colorful wrapper spread on the sand, munching on sandwiches. One of the staff showed me their phone, and I saw myself trending on social media. My dad took the phone, his expression curious, and Aunt Cathy and the others gathered around, peering at the screen.