"A Fortune to Share" is a heartwarming romance novel that follows the journey of Alison, a strong-willed and determined young woman who has been through a tough time in her life. When she meets Derik, a wealthy and charming billionaire, she is drawn to his kindness and generosity. However, their budding relationship is complicated by the arrival of Styles, a mysterious and handsome stranger who seems to have a hidden agenda. As Alison navigates her feelings for Derik and the intrigue surrounding Styles, she must confront the obstacles of her past and learn to trust her heart. Will she find true love and happiness, or will the secrets and lies tear them apart?
Chapter 1 A Chance Encounter
Alison stepped out of the crowded coffee shop, sipping on her lukewarm latte. She had just finished a long shift at work and was looking forward to a relaxing evening at home. The cool autumn breeze carried the scent of freshly brewed coffee and baked goods, invigorating her senses. As she walked down the busy street, she accidentally collided with a tall, handsome stranger. Apologetic, Alison bent down to pick up the scattered papers and belongings that had gone flying out of the stranger's hands. "I'm so sorry!" Alison exclaimed, as she handed the stranger his belongings.
The stranger smiled, his piercing blue eyes crinkling at the corners. "No worries, I'm fine. Thanks for helping me pick up my stuff." Alison smiled back, feeling a spark of attraction. "You're welcome. I'm Alison." "Derik," the stranger replied, his deep voice sending shivers down Alison's spine. As they parted ways, Alison couldn't help but wonder if she would ever see Derik again. She quickened her pace, her mind wandering to the mysterious stranger. Little did Alison know, their chance encounter would set off a chain of events that would change her life forever. As she walked, Alison's thoughts drifted back to her difficult childhood. Growing up in a low-income household with a single mother had been tough. Alison had always felt like she was living on the edge, never knowing when the next bill would come due or when they would have to move to a new apartment. Despite the challenges, Alison's mother had instilled in her a strong work ethic and a determination to succeed. Alison had worked multiple jobs throughout high school and college, determined to make a better life for herself. Now, at 25, Alison was working as a marketing coordinator for a small firm. It wasn't her dream job, but it paid the bills and allowed her to support herself and her younger sister, Emma. As Alison approached her apartment building, she noticed a strange car parked outside. It was a sleek, black sedan with tinted windows. Alison felt a shiver run down her spine as she wondered who could be visiting her. She pushed the thought aside and entered her apartment, calling out to her sister. "Emma, I'm home!" There was no response. Alison felt a surge of worry and quickly made her way to Emma's room. The room was empty, but there was a note on the bed. "Alison, I'm sorry. I had to go. I'll be back soon. Love, Emma." Alison's heart sank as she read the note. Where had Emma gone? And why had she left without saying goodbye? As Alison stood there, feeling worried and unsure, she heard a knock at the door. It was Derik, the stranger from the coffee shop. "Hi again," he said, smiling. "I hope I'm not interrupting anything. I was in the neighborhood and thought I'd drop by to see if you're okay after our collision earlier." Alison was taken aback by Derik's sudden appearance, but she tried to play it cool. "I'm fine, thanks," she said, smiling. "But I have to admit, I'm a bit worried about my sister. She's missing, and I don't know where she is." Derik's expression turned serious. "I'm sorry to hear that. Can I help you find her?" Alison hesitated, unsure if she should accept Derik's offer. But there was something about him that made her feel like she could trust him. "Okay," she said finally. "Thank you." And with that, Alison and Derik set out on a journey to find Emma, a journey that would take them to unexpected places and reveal secrets that would change their lives forever.